Venessa Manzano takes the leap into politics

By Cristina DC Pastor

For nearly three decades, Venessa Manzano has been a familiar face in the Filipino American community of the Northeast—not as a politician, but as an educator, cultural advocate, nonprofit professional, and tireless volunteer.

Now, after more than 30 years of community involvement, she is embarking on a new chapter: public office.

Manzano has announced her candidacy as a Democrat in Emerson, New Jersey, believing that the skills she has developed through years of service can now benefit the broader community she calls home.

“Entering politics has always been on my mind,” she said. “For over three decades, I have been involved with the Filipino communities in Massachusetts, New York and New Jersey. My extensive experience serving and advocating for our Kababayan in various roles and capacities has prepared me to expand to a wider community.”

Before taking such a significant step, Manzano turned to her family, the people who know her best.

“When I pursue something new, my family recognizes that I have thoroughly explored the possibilities,” she explained. “I open the floor to them for their opinions and feedback.”

That collaborative approach has earned her the full support of her parents, siblings, husband, and children. “They become part of the process and are incredibly supportive,” she said.

While her campaign has yet to officially begin, she hopes her family will join her on the campaign trail whenever possible.

Emerson, ‘the family town’

Located in Bergen County, Emerson is a borough of approximately 7,400 residents. Known as “The Family Town,” Emerson is recognized for its highly rated public schools, traditional neighborhood atmosphere, and strong sense of community. Manzano and her family have lived there for more than 13 years.

Although the Filipino population is relatively small—she estimates about a dozen Filipino families—Manzano says her campaign is not centered on any one race. Instead, she plans to meet residents throughout the borough to better understand their concerns.

Among her top priorities are programs and services for young people and senior citizens, although she made clear they do not necessarily reflect those of her upcoming campaign.

Raised by first-generation Filipino parents, she grew up immersed in Filipino traditions and developed a close relationship with her grandparents, both in the United States and during visits to the Philippines.

“They were my closest connection to my roots,” she recalled. “From them, I learned our family history, heard stories of their hometown, and fell in love with Philippine folklore.”

That appreciation evolved into years of volunteer work in nursing homes and senior centers while she was in high school. Later, as a physical therapy student, she found particular fulfillment helping older patients regain their mobility and independence.

Her dedication to young people has been equally enduring.

As a member of the Philippine Dance Company of Boston, she taught traditional Filipino dances to children. She later served as executive director of Filipino American Human Services, Inc. (FAHSI), where she helped develop programs in tutoring, dance, and cultural education.

Perhaps her best-known contribution is founding The Filipino School of New York & New Jersey, which has spent the past 18 years teaching Filipino language, history, traditions, and culture to Filipino American youth.

“I’ve always believed that keeping youth connected to their identity gives them a stronger foundation for the future,” she said.

Championing small businesses

Another priority for Manzano is supporting small, independently owned businesses. Growing up surrounded by entrepreneurs, she witnessed firsthand the determination required to build businesses from the ground up.

“I have loved ones who own everything from traditional Sari-Sari stores and neighborhood coffee shops to dance studios, restaurants, and gaming centers,” she said. “When you know the actual faces behind the storefronts, you realize that supporting small businesses means supporting people’s dreams and livelihoods directly.”

Politics as public service

Asked about her broader view of politics, Manzano expressed both optimism and realism.

“While I have an idealistic view of what politics can achieve, I understand the reality of the challenges we face,” she said.

She has expressed disappointment over the defeat of her longtime friend, Steven Raga, in the Queens Democratic primary for the New York State Senate.

“It was heartbreaking to see someone I’ve known for so long—a good friend, steadfast supporter, and dedicated public servant—work so hard to reach this stage of his political career and come up short in the election,” she said. “Regardless of the outcome, Steve has already made history as the first Filipino American elected to a state-level office in New York, and that legacy cannot be taken away.”

“Politics shouldn’t be about self-interest—it’s supposed to be a selfless role dedicated to serving the community,” she said. “Bridging that gap between the ideal and the reality takes hard work, but with honesty and accountability, I know genuine reform is within reach.”

Manzano is preparing to introduce herself to voters across Emerson, bringing with her decades of nonprofit leadership, cultural advocacy, and grassroots service. She hopes to carry that same spirit of service into local government, and make a difference.