Photo Release

25 October 2026 – The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago joined the Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF) in celebrating its 30th Anniversary on 25 October 2026, in conjunction with Filipino American History Month.

Consul Ella Karina Mitra-Yeager represented Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano and delivered the Consul General’s message, recognizing PACF’s three decades of dedication to preserving Filipino cultural heritage, strengthening community ties, and promoting Filipino identity among succeeding generations. In her message, the Consul General commended PACF for its continued efforts to bring the Filipino-American community together and emphasized the importance of passing on Filipino traditions and values to younger generations.

During the celebration, Consul Mitra-Yeager also received a plaque of appreciation on behalf of Consul General Diano, presented by PACF President Dr. Evelyn de Asis Natividad and Event Chair and Past President Adeline Fajardo.

The celebration also featured guest speaker Ms. Melissa Garcia Villanueva, a Filipino-American entrepreneur, founder and CEO of Brewpoint Coffee, and candidate for the DuPage County Board, District 1.

The event recognized four Outstanding Filipino American Community Organizations for 2026, namely the Association of Filipino Americans of Michiana (formerly FAAM), Filipino School in Chicago, LRSB, and Samahan sa Baryo, for their contributions to the Filipino-American community.

A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the PACF Muses for 2026: Miss Little PACF Penelope James Fe Soloria, Miss Teen PACF Maleyah Jadyn Fajardo, Miss PACF Alanna Josephine Natividad Fernandez, and Mrs. PACF Nicolle Ashley Cagijal Garcia. END

Photo courtesy of Ms. Jen Visaya (via Facebook)