PAFCOM: 34 in ‘24
By Cristina DC Pastor
“34 in ’24” was on everyone’s lips and in many of the evening’s speeches.
The math-themed motto was more than a rally cry. It means Philippine American Friendship Community is celebrating its 34th founding anniversary as New Jersey’s biggest not-for-profit organization that grew out of the pavements of Jersey City’s basketball courts and Catholic churches, a time when our elders felt Filipinos and Americans should close ranks as one.
The PAFCOM Gala and Coronation Ball, held May 25 at the Marriott Hotel in Newark Airport, was graced by New Jersey’s top political leaders and local officials together with FilAm leaders and individuals who have made New Jersey home. Filipino and American “friendship” has indeed come a long way. It has witnessed FilAms vote in substantial numbers and serve in city and state offices. In turn, state resources find their way to our vulnerable elders, our at-risk youths, our out-of-job kababayan, and our immigrant communities.
It was a night celebrating not just the wisdom and unshakeable spirit of PAFCOM’s leaders, but also generations of young Filipino New Jerseyans who are now the club’s cultural message bearers, pageant beauties, budding organizers and young volunteers. High school students are welcome to join PAFCOM which serves as its staging ground for advocacy and leadership, said President Maricar Taino.
Fresh, new leader Maricar Taino is this year’s president. In her speech, she harked back to the time in 1955 when Philippine-American Friendship Day was born and became known as the Philippine American Friendship Committee in 1990. The name evolved into what is now the Philippine-American Friendship Community in recognition of the constituents it serves.
“PAFCOM is more than an organization; it’s a family, a community that has thrived through the years,” said Taino in her opening remarks. “It has inspired the next generation to actively participate in shaping our collective future.”
She is joined in her 2024 Team by known ‘movers and shakers’ such as Secretary: Jessamyn Bonafe, Assistant Secretary: Catherine Bulahan, Treasurer: Federico “Freddy” Burke, Assistant Treasurer: Susan Lagmay, Auditor: Mylz Tolentino, Press Relations Officer: Amira Arcangel, President-Elect 2025: Joyce Castillo, and Immediate Past-President: Roxanne Cajigas, Board Chairman: Rosalinda Rupel, and Vice-Chair Helen Castillo. Taino is just the exemplary leader to “guide us into the new year,” according to the PAFCOM website.
Consul General Senen Mangalile calls the PAFCOM Gala a “happy gathering,” its members and guests appearing “resplendent.” He described PAFCOM as a wide-ranging organization with diverse programs – from scholarships to Zumba classes – a nonprofit with big achievements.
Filipinos and Americans are friends, he declared, “our people blending together” in a time post-war and in peace. The friendship parade held yearly celebrates the “vibrant spirit and rich heritage of our kababayan, a cherished tradition for all FilAms not just in New Jersey,” he said.
Dr. Connie Somera Uy, who had streamlined PAFCOM’s goals and financial structure, was honored with the First Lifetime Achievement Award. Having served as board chairperson for 10 years, she noted how she found an organization where members truly care for each other.
“In serving, I learned a simple truth. We need each other and we need to care for one another. As leaders, we must appreciate the good qualities of other people. We should be loyal but not subservient. We must be firm but not abrasive,” said Connie Uy who was described as a “dynamic leader and visionary.”
The occasion also paid recognition to 2024 Grand Marshal Senen Cabalfin and her Honorary Grand Marshals William O’Dea, Jersey City Council President Joyce Watterman, Isagani Morales, Lee Clemente, and Dr. Michelle Molina.
Hotel executive Rodrigo Pangesban was named Mr. LGBTQ, a first of its kind honor bestowed by a major FilAm organization. He said the title is important because it means LGBTQ people are no longer just tolerated. “They are now being celebrated.”
Singer Kirby Asunto sang two Visayan songs and a Kristen Chenoweth number in a well applauded performance. She recalled how she started singing for PAFCOM when she was 9 years old. She is now 26 and was just too happy to perform again after a long break.
The special 2024 honorees are:
Mrs. PAFCOM: Ramona Gapasin
Mr. LGBTQ: Rod Pangesban
Miss PAFCOM: Diana Kristine Soriano
Miss Teen PAFCOM: Trinity Maya Policarpio
Little Miss PAFCOM: Ava Dylan Arad
