FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 13, 2025
CONTACT: Karina Diaz, Hudson County Executive’s Office
PHONE: 201-369-4386
JERSEY CITY, NJ — On June 12, Hudson County Executive Craig Guy, Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners Anthony L. Romano, and County Commissioner Bill O’Dea (District 2) raised the Filipino flag at the Historic Brennan Court House in honor of Philippine Independence Day with the Philippine American Friendship Community, Inc. (PAFCOM).
“No matter which flag we raise, I am always proud to recognize and celebrate what makes you, you! And as we raise the Philippine flag today, I’m proud to celebrate the freedom and independence of the Philippines as well as recognize the immense contributions of Filipino American residents in Hudson County,” said Hudson County Executive Guy. “I’m thankful to PAFCOM for their dedication to providing meaningful and critical services to families, veterans and seniors in Hudson County, and for imparting upon us the value of Filipino culture and heritage.”
“All of PAFCOM is tremendously grateful to County Executive Guy and the Hudson County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development for their continued support and recognition of Filipino Americans in Hudson County,” Joyce Castillo, President of the Board, PAFCOM. “As we celebrate our 35th year of serving the Filipino American communities throughout New Jersey, we remain steadfast in our mission to continue educating and assisting residents in any way possible. We invite all to attend our PAFCOM Parade and Festival on Sunday, June 22 at Lincoln Park, Jersey City beginning at 11:30 a.m. with festival entertainment from 1-6 p.m.”
During the flag raising, Gabriela Lavarro performed the Star-Spangled Banner, and the Philippine National Anthem was performed by Carmen Flores. The cultural dance presentation “Spirit of Sinulog” was performed by Cebu Inc, a dance performance honoring the image of Holy Infant Jesus, a baptismal gift Spain gave to the Philippines in 1521.
Citations were presented to the Philippine American Friendship Community, Inc. (PAFCOM), Island Central Restuarant, and the Pan American Concerned Citizens Action League, Inc. (PACCAL).
For photos from the flag raising, click here.