Photo Release

PH CONSUL GENERAL JOINS THE FLAG RAISING CEREMONY AT THE VILLAGE OF BOLINGBROOK IN CELEBRATION OF THE 128TH PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY

Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano joined the flag-raising ceremony commemorating the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence on 12 June 2026 at the Village of Bolingbrook, Illinois. Organized by the Santacruzan Cultural Group of Greater Chicago, the event honored the bravery, patriotism, and sacrifices of the Filipino heroes who fought for the country's freedom and independence.

The flag raising ceremony was followed by remarks from Consul General Diano and Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta. In her remarks, Consul General Diano underscored the significance of the occasion, noting that the flag-raising ceremony is a profoundly meaningful act that stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between the Philippines and the Village of Bolingbrook. She also highlighted the strong presence of the Filipino and Filipino-American community in Bolingbrook, estimated at 3,717 individuals or approximately five percent of the village's total population, making it the third-largest Filipino community in Illinois after Chicago and Skokie.

Mayor Alexander-Basta, for her part, recognized the valuable contributions of Filipino Americans to the Village of Bolingbrook and expressed her hope that the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the community and the village would continue to flourish.

The Santacruzan Cultural Group of Greater Chicago serves as an important representative of the Filipino and Filipino-American community in Bolingbrook and remains a vital bridge of friendship between the Philippines and the United States.

The program concluded with cultural performances and a salo-salo featuring traditional Filipino breakfast dishes. END

Consul Melanie Rita B. Diano while delivering her remarks during the Flag Raising activity in the Village of

Bolingbrook in celebration of the 128th Philippine Independence Day.

Consul Melanie Rita B. Diano and Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta with the Filipino Community in Bolingbrook.

Consul Melanie Rita B. Diano and Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta

Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano and the performers during the Flag Raising Ceremony in

the Village of Bolingbrook on 12 June 2026.

Consul Melanie Rita B. Diano and the Santacruzan Cultural Group of Greater Chicago headed

by Mr. Rene O. Turija, Founder of the Santacruzan Group of Greater Chicago.