San Francisco Sun

October marks Filipino American History Month, and San Francisco is recognizing the contributions of its Filipino community through various events and initiatives. The Office of Economic & Workforce Development (OEWD) has partnered with SOMA Pilipinas, Kultivate Labs, and local businesses to celebrate the month.

Throughout October, residents and visitors can engage in free events, support Filipino-owned businesses, and explore the Filipino Cultural Heritage District via the Shop Dine SF website: sf.gov/filipino-american-history-month.

“This year we mark the 20th year of celebrating Filipino American History Month at City Hall, honoring this vibrant community who have greatly contributed to San Francisco,” said Mayor London Breed. She acknowledged SOMA Pilipinas for preserving the cultural heritage of the Filipino community and creating the City's first Filipino Cultural Heritage District.

Mayor Breed will host the 20th Annual Filipino American History Month Celebration at City Hall on October 10. The event will feature performances and a community service award ceremony.

Sarah Dennis Phillips, Executive Director of OEWD, expressed enthusiasm about highlighting efforts with community partners to uplift the Filipino community. “Filipino heritage has contributed so much to San Francisco’s past, and the community is playing a critical role in our Downtown’s future," she said.

Kultivate Labs will host an event at Saluhall on October 3 as part of UNSTAGED: First Thursdays Live. Attendees can enjoy martial arts demonstrations, live art, cooking demonstrations, and music by DJs Trixamillion, DJ Mark Maiden, and RJKoolRaul. Desi Danganan, Executive Director of Kultivate Labs, emphasized their commitment to supporting emerging Filipino businesses and artists.

SOMA Pilipinas is leading initiatives to maintain the history and legacy of San Francisco's Filipino community. The organization will unveil a restored mural during Sunday Streets on October 13. Raquel Redondiez, Executive Director of SOMA Pilipinas, highlighted that these efforts provide a foundation for equitable economic development.

The OEWD has supported several murals by Filipino artists in partnership with SOMA Pilipinas in Yerba Buena neighborhood. These include "What is Legacy Without Liberation?" by Malaya Tuyay and "Pagsasama-sama" by Chi Chai.

The Shop Dine SF website promotes local businesses like Mestiza in China Basin and The Sarap Shop in SoMa. Kristen Brillantes from The Sarap Shop expressed gratitude for OEWD's support as they celebrate their new location.

ASMBLY HALL owners Tricia and Ron Benitez shared their excitement about promoting Filipino culture through their store during this month. They acknowledged collaborations with various groups impacting the Filipino Cultural District positively.