By Esmeralda Padilla-Gould
Los Angeles, California, USA – In a heartfelt meeting with the vibrant Filipino community, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. addressed the attendees, fostering an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie as they celebrated their shared heritage and the strong ties that bind them to the Philippines. Held in Los Angeles, known as the home to the largest Filipino community in the United States, the event was graced by the President’s presence, adding a unique significance to the gathering. President Marcos Jr. opened the event with expressions of gratitude, setting a tone of appreciation for the community’s resilience and contributions. The air was filled with a sense of pride as attendees eagerly listened to the President’s words, highlighting the importance of unity and collaboration among Filipinos, both within the country and across the diaspora. Acknowledging the sacrifices of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), President Marcos Jr. commended their dedication and emphasized their role as pillars of support for both their families and the Philippine economy. The President expressed deep pride in the positive reputation Filipinos have built globally, showcasing the strength of the Filipino spirit. Los Angeles, as a prominent hub for Filipinos in the United States, was commended for its role in connecting the diaspora with their roots.
President Marcos Jr. praised the community for their achievements and encouraged them to continue making the Philippines proud on the international stage. Expressing gratitude for the support received in recent elections, the President celebrated the engagement of Filipinos abroad in shaping the political landscape of the Philippines. The event became a platform to strengthen the connection between the government and the Filipino community, with key figures in the delegation acknowledged for their contributions. Insights from the recently attended 30th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting were shared, emphasizing the need for collaboration, innovation, and embracing technology to navigate the challenges of the global economy. President Marcos Jr. underscored the importance of sustainable practices, addressing climate change, and fostering economic development, with a focus on supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Addressing the audience, President Marcos Jr. praised the success and valuable contributions of the Filipino community in the United States.
Amidst challenges, including instances of hate crimes, the President encouraged the national community to serve as ambassadors of goodwill, fostering understanding and unity. A special acknowledgment was extended to Filipino workers abroad for their significant role in sustaining the Philippine economy through remittances. The President highlighted the importance of promoting tourism and investments in the Philippines, inviting the diaspora to be active advocates for the country’s beauty and hospitality. In conclusion, President Marcos Jr. called on the Filipino community to continue being proud bearers of their identity, passing on their love for the Philippines to future generations. The event concluded with resounding cheers of “Mabuhay ang Pilipino! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!” echoing the shared pride and unity of the Filipino community in Los Angeles under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
During his address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took a moment to acknowledge the esteemed Consul General Edgar Badajos, a figure who garnered immense respect and admiration from Filipino and Filipino-American attendees. As President Marcos spoke of Consul General Badajos’s dedicated service, the crowd erupted in cheers, reflecting the deep appreciation and affection they held for him. The Consul General’s presence added a special significance to the gathering, with nearly 1,000 people in attendance, underscoring the widespread love and support he enjoyed from the community. President Marcos expressed gratitude for Consul General Badajos’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the ties between the diaspora and the homeland, a sentiment echoed by the enthusiastic response of the crowd.
“Honored to share a moment with Consul General Edgar B. Badajos, of the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, during my coverage of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.‘s historic visit. Grateful for insightful conversations capturing the essence of this significant event. In my interview with Consul General Badajos, he shared how the president’s words ignited a fire of encouragement among Filipinos present. It’s not just about the government; it’s about everyone pitching in for the nation’s betterment. He emphasized the hope for unity, especially among Filipinos abroad, and expressed genuine gratitude for the strong support shown that day. His joy at being recognized by the president was evident, seeing it as a significant acknowledgment of his hard work. It’s moments like these that make serving the Filipino community feel truly worthwhile.” – Esmeralda Padilla-Gould, Vice President & COO at FilAmTV Network
