FYLPRO Tayo Team selected to implement a national whole health program for Filipino American youth 

April 21, 2022

For Immediate Release

Contact: Krystle Canare (krystle.canare@fylpro.org)

The Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)’s Tayo was one of five community-based organizations selected by the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to implement Achieving Whole Health (AWH), a national training program designed to improve holistic outcomes in Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Next week, five members of FYLPRO’s Tayo team will participate in an intensive training program consisting of a 3-day virtual training and four follow-up coaching sessions with AWH program founder, Dr. DJ Ida, Executive Director of the National Asian American & Pacific Islander Mental Health Association. 

The AWH program provides creative, interactive and culturally relevant ways of improving both health and mental health outcomes for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islander communities. It fills a critical need by drawing on the strengths of community members to train them to become Wellness Coaches. They learn how to take an active role in improving their own health as well as learning ways to help others.

The FYLPRO Tayo Team will be represented by Chachie Abara (Honolulu, HI), Nichole Dungo (Menifee, CA), Carina Gregorio (Los Angeles, CA), Maileen Mamaradlo (Pittsburg, CA), and Aryelle Montecer (Germantown, MD). The team will be supervised by Tayo Fellowship Director Krystle Canare (Waldorf, MD). 

We are excited to offer this program to members in the community. For more information about the program, please e-mail: kcanare@fylpro.org.

About Tayo

Tayo was developed by FYLPRO’s COVID-19 Task Force in response to the ongoing pandemic and to tackle the specific needs of Filipinos in the diaspora and back home. The project features a virtual help desk, Tayo, which connects Filipinos with vital information and services. Tayo’s pilot launch location is Los Angeles, California.

About Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)

FILIPINO YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM (FYLPRO) is a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the  Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. 

We continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.  By connecting them to the motherland, we foster collaborative multinational  relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic  progress of the global Filipino community.

For more information:

http://www.fylpro.org

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Filipino Young Leaders Program Raises $8,500 for Typhoon Odette Relief

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

leezel.tanglao@fylpro.org

January 20, 2022

(Updated August 1, 2022)

Filipino Young Leaders Program Raises $8,500 for Typhoon Odette Relief

The Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), a joint initiative with the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. and the Ayala Foundation, Inc., has raised $8,500 for Typhoon Odette Relief.

The strongest typhoon to hit the Philippines this year, Typhoon Odette also known as Typhoon Rai internationally, slammed into the country on Dec. 16-17, 2021, leaving more than 300 dead and impacting more than 700,000 people across the Visayas and Mindanao.

In response, FYLPRO partnered up with the Ayala Foundation, Inc.’s direct relief efforts on the ground by raising money to help get food and water to the most devastated areas.

“This devastating typhoon has upended so many lives. We are all connected to someone impacted by Typhoon Odette. So we knew we had to help,” said FYLPRO 2022 President Leezel Tanglao. “We hope that the money raised by our generous donors will help our kababayans rebuild and recover.” 

In December, FYLPRO launched a crowdfunding campaign which drew donations across FYLPRO’s alumni, members, affiliated networks and the general public. 

In addition, FYLPRO 2021 President Louella Rose Cabalona secured a $2,000 match from Marie Cunning, a 2022 FYLPRO board member over the holidays. 

“A big thank you to our FYLPRO family, our networks of friends, and our matching donor Ms. Marie Cunning for embodying the true spirit of bayanihan, coming together to help thousands of families devastated by Typhoon Odette in the Philippines,” said Cabalona. “I commend the quick mobilization of our long term partners Ayala Foundation, Inc in providing food, supplies and water to affected communities in Visayas and Mindanao. Through them, we are able to let our kababayans (fellow Filipinos) know that, in these difficult times, they remain in our thoughts and prayers.”

All donations go directly to Ayala Foundation’s on the ground relief efforts across the regions impacted by Typhoon Odette. 

In June 2022, the Filipino Community of Carson (California), added an additional $500 to the recovery relief efforts.

Girl in a jacket

 

“Through the power of shared purpose, the Ayala group has so far provided food and water for at least 26,300 families severely affected by Typhoon Odette,” said Ruel Maranan, president of Ayala Foundation. “The generosity of the Filipino American community, through the efforts of FYLPRO, expands our capacity to serve more families as they make their way toward recovery and resilience.”

About Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)

FILIPINO YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM (FYLPRO) is a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the  Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. 

We continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.  By connecting them to the motherland, we foster collaborative multinational  relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic  progress of the global Filipino community.

For more information:

http://www.fylpro.org

# # #

 

Filipino Young Leaders Program Announces New Leadership for 2022

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

leezel.tanglao@fylpro.org

January 19, 2022

Filipino Young Leaders Program Announces New Leadership for 2022

The Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), a joint initiative with the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. and the Ayala Foundation, Inc., is pleased to announce its 2022 Executive Committee and Board of Directors.

Executive Committee:

Leezel Tanglao ‘19, President (Carson, CA)

Jan Paul Ferrer ’14, Vice President (Chicago, IL)

Jean Gavina, Secretary (Chicago, IL)

Fred Docdocil ‘19, Treasurer (Carson, CA)

Board of Directors:

Alvin Adriano, (Washington, DC)

Annalisa Burgos, (Honolulu, HI)

Louella Cabalona, ‘12 (Chicago, IL)

Mark Calaguas, ‘16 (Chicago, IL)

Marie Cunning, (Phoenix, AZ)

Anthony Guevara, ‘13 (Houston, Texas)

Joyce Roldan King, ‘19 (Frederick, MD)

Antonio Moya, ‘19 (Long Beach, CA)

Bryan Ramos (Atlanta, GA)

Sabrina Sayoc (Philadelphia, PA)

Jessica Velasco, (New York, NY)

Mark Lim, Ex-Officio (Washington, D.C.)

Joanna Duarte, Ex-Officio (Manila, Philippines)

The new leadership assumed their roles in January 2022, taking the helm of the nonprofit FYLPRO to fulfill its mission to identify young Filipino-American leaders and reconnect them with their cultural heritage and history; provide professional development to empower them to positively impact their communities; and give them the tools and networks to nurture and grow Philippines-US relations in the areas of government, business, and philanthropic and humanitarian initiatives.

The election of 2022’s board officers marks the first time that non-alumni of the immersion program could officially run for a leadership position. The 2021 board of directors and alumni voted to open membership FYLPRO to those beyond the participants of its signature immersion program in November 2021.

“Meaningfully engaging and embracing allies who are passionate about our mission is key in FYLPRO’s growth and long term sustainability”, said Louella Rose Cabalona, Immediate Past President of FYLPRO.

“On the backs of the leaders that came before us, our nonprofit has grown tremendously in the last two years, making strides in Strategic Planning, focusing on strengthening operations and building new programs – Tayo, FYLPROCon and Mentorship – alongside our signature immersion program. We welcome the diversity of talent and experience our new leadership, both alumni and non-alumni, brings”, adds Cabalona.

FYLPRO 2022 President Leezel Tanglao is looking forward to continuing to build on the foundation set by all previous board leadership, alumni, volunteers and community partners. 

“FYLPRO is at the intersection of a pivotal moment as we celebrate our 10th anniversary in 2022. It’s crucial to cultivate inclusive spaces to foster the leaders of today and tomorrow,” said Tanglao, who is a journalist by trade and is the project director of FYLPRO’s Tayo, a virtual help desk for Filipinos. 

Tanglao is joined by Vice President Jan Paul Ferrer, a First Vice President and Portfolio Management Director at Morgan Stanley and 2014 FYLPRO delegate. Secretary Jean Gavina, a Clinical Strategy Manager at Blue Cross and Blue Shield; and Fred Docdocil, Business Development Coordinator for Mabuhay Credit Union.

The members of the 2022 Board of Directors are comprised of FYLPRO alumni and non-alumni from across the nation in multiple industries including business, banking, nonprofits, education, journalism and law. Along with representatives from the Philippine Embassy and Ayala Foundation, Inc., this body will advise and support the executive committee during their terms in office.

Established in 2012 by the Philippine Embassy in the United States in cooperation with the Ayala Foundation Inc. (AFI), FYLPRO annually identifies outstanding young professionals in the Filipino communities across the United States and provides them invaluable community, business, and government insights and access to distinguished network captains of industry and government.

About Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)

FILIPINO YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM (FYLPRO) is a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the  Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. 

We continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.  By connecting them to the motherland, we foster collaborative multinational  relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic  progress of the global Filipino community.

For more information:

http://www.fylpro.org

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Typhoon Odette/Typhoon Rai: Help our Kababayans in The Philippines

The strongest typhoon to hit the Philippines this year, Typhoon Odette also known as Typhoon Rai internationally, slammed into the country on Dec. 16-17, 2021, leaving more than 300 dead and impacting more than 700,000 people across the Visayas and Mindanao.

FYLPRO is partnering up with the Ayala Foundation’s direct relief efforts on the ground by raising money to help get food and water to the most devastated areas.

Please consider donating and help our kababayans in the most impacted areas.

All donations will go to the Ayala Foundation’s Typhoon Odette Relief Campaign

Filipino Young Leaders Program, Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. and Ayala Foundation Inc. Extend Partnership

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

Leezel Tanglao

leezel.tanglao@fylpro.org

December 14, 2021

Filipino Young Leaders Program, Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. and Ayala Foundation Inc. Extend Partnership 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. and the Ayala Foundation Inc. extend partnership for another three years through Dec. 31, 2025.

On Dec. 6, 2021,  Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez, President Louella Rose Cabalona, Ayala Foundation, Inc. (AFI) President Ruel Maranan and Senior Director Joanna Duarte virtually signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the virtual year end meeting with Philippine Consulates General in the United States, and the Department of Foreign Affairs – Office of American Affairs. 

Earlier in the day, several directors and alumni led by Cabalona was received by Ambassador Romualdez, Deputy Chief of Mission Jaimon Ascalon and Vice Consul Mark Lim to discuss the significance of FYLPRO in Filipino American youth engagement and COVID-19 response efforts. Ambassador Romualdez expressed his enthusiasm on celebrating FYLPRO’s 10th anniversary in 2022, inviting the organization to be part of the Philippine Independence Day celebration in D.C.

The FYLPRO delegation present at the Romulo Hall in the Philippine Embassy included incoming President Elect and current Vice President Leezel Tanglao, Secretary Jean Gavina, Directors Jan Paul Ferrer and Bryan Ramos. Alumni also in attendance included Baron Cabalona, Mark Calaguas and Tyler Dos Santos-Tam. They were joined by 2018 delegate Brian Tajo and volunteers Sabrina Sayoc and Robbie Lopez during the virtual signing. 

“I am honored to have the opportunity to continue our long-standing relationship with our partner institutions, Philippine Embassy in Washington DC and Ayala Foundation, building upon our previous agreements signed in from 2016 and 2018”, said Cabalona. 

“This historic MOU is an affirmation that, one, our immersion program will continue in its mission to connect Filipinos in the diaspora to the motherland beyond leadership changes in the Philippine government and two, that FYLPRO, the non profit organization has proven itself able and willing to take on the responsibility of shaping the immersion program in the years to come”, adds Cabalona.

The MOU also transfers the immersion program ownership which now will be in the hands of FYLPRO with support from the Philippine Embassy and Ayala Foundation.

Ambassador Romualdez reiterated the Philippine Embassy’s support of FYLPRO’s vision of “a thriving future for the Filipino people built upon the strength of our Filipino identity, our global community, and our connections with the Philippines.”

“Celebrating your 10th year next year will really be a milestone because you have gone a long way from the time I became the ambassador four years ago. I could see there’s been a lot of activities, events you’ve had inspite of the challenges of the past two years,” said Ambassador Romualdez. “With the help of the Department of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Ayala Foundation, I am sure that this program will be more successful in the future. I’d like to congratulate all of you for doing a great job and you can expect the Embassy in Washington DC to continue to support you in every way we can.”

AFI President Maranan and Senior Director Duarte echoed these same sentiments for FYLPRO’s future legacy projects and newfound independence.

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Louella and her leadership, that you have truly gained so much during your watch. These were challenging times and you were able to pivot and make FYLPRO more efficient and effective,” said AFI President Ruel Maranan.“I know that under the new leadership of incoming President Leezel Tanglao, the rest of her team will surely emerge and continuously explore all possibilties and opportunities to make FYLPRO more relevant not only in terms of celebrating the 10th year but making it more meaningful (in the decades) to come.”

AFI Senior Director Joanna Duarte added: “I am very proud of this organization because in Ayala Foundation our vision is for communities to be creative, productive, self reliant and proud to be Filipino and what we aim to do is empower the communities we work with such that they can eventually do things on their own and this is what FYLPRO has done.”

Since 2012, FYLPRO has partnered with the Philippine Embassy and the Ayala Foundation to offer a transformative, life changing immersion experience that brings 10 to 15 delegates from the United States to the Philippines for a week. 

This extension of this unique partnership between the three organizations ensures continuity as FYLPRO celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2022. 

About Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)

FILIPINO YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM (FYLPRO) is a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the  Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. 

We continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.  By connecting them to the motherland, we foster collaborative multinational  relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic  progress of the global Filipino community.

For more information:

http://www.fylpro.org

 

# # #

Leadership sought for 2022 FYLPRO Board of Directors, nominations now open

For immediate release:

Nov 19, 2021

Filipino Young Leaders Program

elections@fylpro.org

Leadership sought for 2022 FYLPRO Board of Directors, nominations now open

Nominations are now open for individuals willing to serve on the board of the Filipino Young Leaders Program or FYLPRO for 2022. 

As an international organization, those interested to serve may be based anywhere in the U.S. or in the Philippines, and must have a desire to advance FYLPRO’s mission to strengthen the bridge between the two countries. This is an opportunity to provide leadership in the operations and development of the organization, which includes its fiscal growth and pursuing its mission of building a pipeline of future young leaders.

The positions available are for Vice President and for 13 directors.

The 2022 board of directors will serve under the leadership of incoming president, journalist and community organizer Leezel Tanglao of Carson, Los Angeles for FYLPRO’s 10th anniversary. Among many notable projects in the past year, Tanglao led the creation of online-based COVID-19 information helpdesk called Tayo to fight misinformation and fake news in the Filipino community.

FYLPRO’s signature immersion program to the Philippines, which was cancelled the past two years due to the pandemic, may be considered again next year, in addition to fundraising, mentorship and educational programs like the recently concluded FYLPROCon. FYLPRO works closely with its partners – the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. and the Ayala Foundation.

One of the strategic decisions FYLPRO President Louella Cabalona has led this year is officially opening up leadership positions to excellent leaders in the Fil Am community who may not have gone through our core immersion program. 

“I could not be more proud of our decision to embrace FilAm leaders outside of our alumni pool and even more proud of the caliber of talent, experience and passion our current Board of Directors have brought to the organization,” said Cabalona. “If you have a desire to enrich your connection with the Motherland, help perpetuate the culture and uplift the Filipino community to support the next generation of leaders, I urge you to consider serving on the board. This is an opportunity to give back and support this dynamic nonprofit, and be part of a movement that will bring it to the next level.”

Serving on the FYLPRO Board is voluntary with no monetary compensation. Involvement or knowledge about FYLPRO programs are good to have, but not required. 

To learn about dues involved on how to become active members, board expectations, and for the candidacy form, go to fylpro.org/elections. The candidacy filing deadline is Dec. 2. Elections will be held electronically on Dec. 3 and 4.

# # #

 About Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)

FILIPINO YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM (FYLPRO) is a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. 

We continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.  By connecting them to the motherland, we foster collaborative multinational  relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic progress of the global Filipino community.

For more information:

http://www.fylpro.org

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For Immediate Release:

November 2, 2021

Filipino influencers, and changemakers are lining up to join GMA Pinoy TV’s Here Now/Hear Now: The Diamond Dialogue at the Day 3 plenary session of the Filipino Young Leaders Conference or FYLPROCon on Nov. 6 from 9 to 10:30 p.m. Eastern time. FYLPROCon is a 3-day virtual summit of young leaders in the US and in the Philippines.

Hawaii State House Representative Ty Cullen, musical artist and DJ King Marie, and Dr. Tess Mauricio, known worldwide as “America’s Favorite Dermatologist,” are some of the guest speakers that will share their lived experiences and dive deep into conversations about the Filipino community in the US, and in the Motherland.

The conversations involve different generations and perspectives while celebrating the accomplishments and culture that keep Filipinos connected to each other. The program will be hosted by FYLPRO alumni Ryyn Schumacher and journalist Annalisa Burgos. Other confirmed speakers include veterans advocate Jon Melegrito, psychology professor and author EJ David, community organizer Anthony Guevarra and storytellers Tony Dela Rosa and Kristine de los Santos.

The Diamond Dialogue will explore 75 years of diplomatic relations between the US and the Philippines and will begin with exploring stories post World War 2, and the growing disparities between Filipinos in the Philippines and Filipinos in the United States.

“Our goal is to have rich and comprehensive conversations even though difficult at times, so that viewers can continue them with their families on the dining table,” said Louella Cabalona, president of FYLPRO. “We want to thank GMA Pinoy TV for sharing our stories, especially those from our top caliber panel of speakers.“

For more information about FYLPROCon, including other panel topics, visit fylprocon.com.

# # #

Visit GMA Pinoy TV for details on how snag a free conference pass to FYLPROCon – limited tickets available.

FYLPROCON

Breakout session topics announced for FYLPROCon; mental health at the forefront

For immediate release: 

October 21, 2021

Contact:

Kit Zulueta

fylprocon@fylpro.org

Washington D.C. – Among the topics now posted in FYLPROcon.com, panels addressing issues on mental health of the Filipino community will be available on each day of the 3-day conference.

The Filipino Young Leaders Conference on Nov. 4 to 6 just announced its lineup of breakout sessions featuring exciting titles like the following:

  • The Role of Filipino Americans in the 2022 Philippine Presidential Elections
  • How Filipinos are breaking the mental health stigma in their communities
  • Fundraising Basics: What Works for your Organization
  • This Way, That Way or the Highway: Asserting One’s Filipinoness in a Foreign Workplace 
  • Turon or not to run: Live food demonstration and Filipino Street Food!
  • Thinking of Doing Business in the Philippines? Learn from our mistakes.

Organizers have also planned for a virtual tour of Intramuros, Manila, and late night Karaoke and Filipino Trivia rooms where attendees can hangout and connect with attendees. 

“We want to thank our panel speakers and moderators for sharing their time and expertise,” said Louella Cabalona, FYLPRO president. “Until we can travel freely again, I urge everyone to join us and take advantage of the access you’ll have to thought-leaders and fellow Filipinos at the conference.”

FYLPROCon is a celebration of the bridge between the United States and the Philippines, and is organized by the Filipino Young Leaders Program, the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., and Ayala Foundation, Inc. The conference aims to provide a venue to exchange information to empower Filipinos to create positive changes in their communities.

Now with a partnership with The Filipino Channel and GMA Pinoy TV, a lineup of special guests and celebrity appearances are anticipated in future announcements to help advance the event’s objectives of community building.

Go to FYLPROCon.com to register for a conference pass. Vendor booths and sponsorship are still being accepted. Contact fylprocon@fylpro.org for any questions.

# # #

About Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)

FILIPINO YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM (FYLPRO) is a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the  Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. 

We continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.  By connecting them to the motherland, we foster collaborative multinational  relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic  progress of the global Filipino community.

 

# # #

 

Aika, Tricia and Jill Robredo confirmed as keynote speakers for FYLPROCon 2021

 

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

Kit Zulueta Furukawa 

fylprocon@fylpro.org

Oct 12, 2021

Aika, Tricia and Jill Robredo confirmed as keynote speakers for FYLPROCon 2021

The daughters of Philippine Vice President Leni Robredo are among the confirmed keynote speakers for the Filipino Young Leaders Conference (FYLPROCon) 2021.

Harvard graduate Jessica Marie Robredo, or Aika, is working for a non-government organization in the Philippines to help people in disaster-prone areas to get back on their feet through livelihood opportunities. She also heads a foundation named after her father Jesse Robredo to continue his legacy of genuine public service and governance.

Dr. Janine or “Tricia” has a Doctor of Medicine with a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health. She volunteers as an attending physician for the Swab Cab program, doing COVID-19 tests.

Jillian, the youngest sibling, is a Philippine Science High School graduate and a current college student at New York University with a full scholarship.

As young leaders who have a unique lens in public service and community building, they will share some insights on the importance of role models and creating a legacy.

FYLPROCon is a three-day global virtual conference for young leaders to hear stories, look back and honor those who have paved the way for Filipinos around the world today, and harness the collective strength available to create positive changes in communities as we move forward.

FYLPROCon is on November 4-6 of 2021 and will use a platform called Airmeet. Due to the pandemic, it replaces FYLPRO’s signature in person immersion program, which has been deferred until it’s safe to travel internationally.

Other breakout panels being put together include topics on young leaders in government, including Filipino history and culture in school textbooks, an all-women judges panel, and lessons about doing business in the Philippines. Internet personality Tita Che! who is “everyone’s favorite tita” by Jeppy Paraiso will also make an appearance at the conference. FYLPROCon will have students and young professionals from the U.S. and the Philippines. 

FYLPROCon is still taking pitches for panels that celebrate the bridge between the nations, and highlight stories that inspire our youth to not be afraid to dream. 

Panels will be under the following tracks:

  • Civic Engagement
  • History and Education
  • Arts, sports & culture
  • Innovation, business and technology
  • Personal development and health

If interested in pitching a panel, find out more here fylprocon.com/people.

If you or your company supports the advancement of the Philippines and the Filipino people, download the packets online and consider becoming a sponsor by emailing fylprocon@fylpro.org.

About Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)

FILIPINO YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM (FYLPRO) is a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the  Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. 

We continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.  By connecting them to the motherland, we foster collaborative multinational  relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic  progress of the global Filipino community.

For more information:

http://www.fylpro.org

# # #



FYLPRO to launch Filipino Arts Festival featuring Filipino Filmmakers Panel, Akin Ang Korona Screening and Comedy Show

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

Lakhi@chicagoasiannetwork.com

September 27, 2021

FYLPRO to launch Filipino Arts Festival featuring Filipino Filmmakers Panel, Akin Ang Korona Screening and Comedy Show 

CHICAGO – In celebration of FIlipino American History Month, the Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO) is launching Filipino Arts Festival featuring a filmmakers panel, U.S. screening of Akin Ang Korona and comedy show with Rex Navarette and JR de Guzman on October 9, 2021. 

“We are extremely excited to celebrate Filipino-American History Month in Chicago by showcasing talented Filipino American artists, comedians and creatives that will benefit youth leadership programs for the Filipino Community” said Lakhi Siap, FYLPRO Board of Director and Co-Chair of FYLPRO Arts Fest 2021.

In partnership with Asian Pop-up Cinema and Chicago Asian Network, FYLPRO’s Filipino Arts Festival will take place at Alliance Française De Chicago, 54 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL. The event begins at 4:30 p.m. CST with the U.S. screening of “Akin Ang Korona,” directed by Zig Madamba Dulay and starring Nar Cabico, Angel Aquino, Aaron Rivera, Kiray Celis, Kiest Viray and Phi Palmos. “Akin Ang Korona” follows Nanong (Nar Cabico) as his life becomes the focus of a tabloid-format TV show in hopes of finding his lost father.

Following the film screening, at 6:30 p.m. CST, a Filipino filmmakers panel including 3-time Tony and Grammy Award-winning entertainment producer and FYLPRO alum Jhett Tolentino who is set to debut his directorial film starring Dante Basco and Toni Gonzaga, Emmy award-winning Filipinx filmmaker Michele Josue of Netflix’s Happy Jail, Billy Dec who is a 2-time Emmy Award Winning TV Personality, Actor, Attorney and the Founder/CEO of celebrated businesses like Sunda New Asian Restaurants and The Underground Nightclub and Akin ang Korona’s lead actor Nar Cabico will discuss their experience as Filipino American in the film industry moderated by journalist Cat Sandoval.

Lastly, after the panel, a comedy stand-up show with comedians Rex Navarrete and JR de Guzman will kick off at 8:30 p.m. CST. Rex Navarrete has performed alongside headliners such as George Lopez, Russell Peters, Ali Wong, among others over the past three decades. His most popular DVD, “Badass Madapaka”, was filmed in front of a sold-out crowd at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles. JR De Guzman has entertained all over the world, having performed for Stand-Up Tokyo and ROR Comedy in Japan, the Jokers Ball in Indonesia, the Badaboom Comedy Series in Amsterdam, and countless other international shows.

“It’s an impressive line-up of notable Filipino Americans in Film from all over the USA coming together for Filipino American History Month here in Chicago! It also is a wonderful comeback to the theater on our third collaboration with Asian Pop-up Cinema,” said Louella Rose Cabalona, FYLPRO President, noting the two organizations successfully pivoted to a drive-in screening last year. “My sincerest thank you for APUC and Chicago Asian Network’s support in helping FYLPRO uplift the profile of Filipinos while also raising funds for our programs benefiting youth leaders.”

Tickets for “Akin Ang Korona” range from $30 to $40. https://fylpro.networkforgood.com/events/34059-akin-ang-korona-us-premiere-fylpro-arts-fest-2021

Tickets for the Comedy Show with Rex Navarette and JR de Guzman range from $50 to $150 

https://fylpro.networkforgood.com/events/34062-rex-navarrete-and-jr-de-guzman-live-in-chicago-fylpro-arts-fest-2021

All access tickets range from $100 to $120:

https://fylpro.networkforgood.com/events/34270-akin-ang-korona-us-premiere-rex-navarrete-and-jr-de-guzman-live-in-fylpro-arts-fest-2021

For more information on filmmakers and performers and to purchase tickets: https://bitly.com/fylproartsfest2021

The organizers encourage wearing masks for everyone’s safety regardless of vaccination status. Alliance Française De Chicago requires wearing a mask when moving around the building (regardless of vaccination status) and social distancing where possible. For the venue’s Covid-19 safety measures, visit www.af-chicago.org/covid-19-information

About Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO)

FILIPINO YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM (FYLPRO) is a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the  Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. 

We continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.  By connecting them to the motherland, we foster collaborative multinational  relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic  progress of the global Filipino community.

For more information:

http://www.fylpro.org

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