New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga, the first Filipino American elected to the New York State Legislature, has announced his endorsement of three Filipino American candidates seeking public office in New York and New Jersey: Judge Karen Cortes-Tower for New York County Civil Court, Venessa Manzano for Emerson Borough Council, and Jonie Planillo-Pachay for the Lebanon Township Board of Education.
The endorsements reflect Raga’s continued commitment to advancing Filipino American political representation and supporting candidates who bring professional experience, community leadership, and a record of public service to their respective races. The three candidates are seeking positions in the judiciary, municipal government, and public education.
Judge Karen Cortes-Tower for New York County Civil Court
“I am proud to endorse Judge Karen Cortes-Towers for New York County Civil Court, recognizing her distinguished career in public service and steadfast commitment to justice, fairness, and the families of New York. As the first Filipino American Family Court Judge in New York State, she has made history through her judicial service and her leadership as the first Asian American to preside over the Judicial Section of the New York State Bar Association.
“Her candidacy presents another historic opportunity to expand Filipino American representation in our judiciary, with the potential for her to become the first Filipino American elected to New York County Civil Court. As the first Filipino American elected to the New York State Legislature, I understand the significance of breaking barriers within institutions where our communities have historically been underrepresented. Judge Cortes-Towers has demonstrated the integrity, experience, and commitment to public service that New Yorkers deserve, and I am proud to stand with her in this historic campaign.”
Venessa Manzano for Emerson Borough Council
“Venessa Manzano has deep roots in Emerson, where she and her family have been active members of the community for more than a decade. As a working mother of three and a longtime professional in higher education and research, she brings valuable perspectives on the importance of strong public schools, accessible community resources, and responsive local government.
“Having had the opportunity to work with Venessa directly in both Queens and New Jersey, I’ve seen her commitment to serving families and strengthening communities firsthand. Her dedication to Emerson’s families, young people, and neighborhoods reflects the importance of community-centered leadership and meaningful representation in public office. As the first Filipino American elected to the New York State Legislature, I recognize the significance of Filipino Americans stepping forward to serve their communities and advancing our representation at every level of government. I am proud to endorse Venessa Manzano for Emerson Borough Council and support her commitment to serving the community she and her family proudly call home.”
Jonie Planillo-Pachay for Lebanon Township Board of Education
“Jonie Planillo-Pachay brings a strong record of professional expertise and community leadership to her campaign for the Lebanon Township Board of Education. As a CPA and Certified Internal Auditor with more than 15 years of experience in compliance, finance, and organizational accountability, she understands the importance of making sure public resources are used effectively and transparently.
“As a fellow UniPro co-founder, I’m proud to support Jonie and her commitment to building spaces where Filipino Americans can lead and serve. Having lived in Lebanon Township for nearly a decade, she also brings a parent’s perspective to the decisions that will shape local schools and her daughter’s future. I’m proud to endorse Jonie Planillo-Pachay for Lebanon Township Board of Education and support her commitment to thoughtful, student-centered leadership.