Jeweler Reagan John Rada turns birthday celebration into quake relief for GenSan
By Elton Lugay
When Filipino American jeweler Reagan John Rada heard about the powerful earthquake that struck General Santos City in the Southern Philippines, he knew his upcoming birthday celebration in New York could not remain just a party. Instead, he pledged to turn it into a fundraiser for families affected by the disaster in the region.
Rada’s “American birthday” — marking the years he has lived in the United States — became an occasion for members of the community to gather for a ticketed event where 100 percent of the proceeds would go to quake victims in General Santos City. Funds were donated to the New York-based Socksargen organization. The gathering was held at Tito Rad’s Restaurant in Woodside, Queens.
By the end of the night, the celebration had raised $3,098 to be sent to those hardest hit by the tremor. Those who did not give cash donated gift cards or items that were auctioned off. More donations came in the days after the party, Rada told The FilAm. Checks were handed to Socksargen leader Rowena Randman.
The quake that moved Rada to action was a powerful one, reported at magnitude 7.8, that struck off the coast near Maasim, Saranggani, and shook General Santos City and neighboring areas. Authorities placed the city under a state of calamity after the tremor damaged buildings, injured residents, and forced many families out of their homes as aftershocks continued.
At Tito Rad’s, the atmosphere was warm and reflective, the Filipino spirit of Bayanihan – neighbors helping neighbors — evident in the way guests had wanted to help. The fundraiser drew a cross-section of the community, including Ambassador Mario de Leon and his wife Eleanor, nurse-philanthropist Dr. Dely Go, and partners in the arts and events scene Edwin Josue and Jerry Sibal. Comedians Allen and Cassey hosted the program, while local singers Michelle and Rasmin provided live musical performances.
For Rada, the night was about gratitude as it was about giving back. Born in the Philippines and raised in modest circumstances, he came to the United States more than two decades ago with dreams larger than his resources. In his early years, he juggled different jobs, navigating the uncertainties of immigrant life while honing his craft in jewelry design.
His fortunes changed when the jewelry company he worked for was acquired by The House of Taylor Jewelry, owned by screen legend Elizabeth Taylor. There, his creative talent caught the attention of colleagues and mentors, leading to greater responsibilities and recognition. It was during this period that he became a legal immigrant.
He tells the story of how his path to legal residency was secured with the help of then–U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer and friends of Taylor, who advocated on his behalf as he rose through the ranks of the company.
Today, Rada is known as a jeweler to an international clientele and a visible figure in Filipino American circles. Friends say that despite his success, he has not forgotten the struggles of his early years or the communities that supported him.
“He has always believed that blessings should be shared,” noted one guest at the event, observing how Rada moved from table to table thanking supporters and explaining how the funds would be used. The jeweler emphasized that the evening was for the families in General Santos who are rebuilding their lives after the quake.
