Statement on Democrats Delivering Historic Investments in the Filipino American and AAPI Communities of New York

QUEENS, NY - Thanks to the leadership of U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens), the National Federation of Filipino American Associations New York Chapter (NaFFAA NY) has secured a historic $1.6 million in Federal Community Project Funding to establish a multicultural community center in Woodside, Queens, the heart of the Filipino American community in New York. This marks the awarding of the largest federal grant to a Filipino organization in New York State.

This is a significant chapter and step forward for our community. Filipino Americans have long been established in New York and have made contributions beyond measure. NaFFAA has been a tireless advocate for Filipino Americans and this will enable them to provide a long-awaited anchor for culture, programming, and advocacy for New York City’s Filipino community.

The Filipino American Democratic Club of NY is thankful to have the support of Democrats like Congresswoman Meng and their steadfast commitment to championing for the Filipino American and AAPI communities. This includes the passage of historic legislation on the AAPI Museum Study Bill and the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act. They remain committed to investing in our future through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, protecting our social security, and lowering healthcare costs. 

As we look ahead, it's clear that the Biden-Harris Administration and Congressional Democrats are committed to moving our country forward. In contrast, this election year presents a choice between forward-thinking policies and extremist MAGA ideologies that only serve to divide our communities and threaten to roll back hard-earned rights. We believe in a future where unity, progress, and inclusivity guide our nation's path forward.

FADCNY is under the leadership of President Enzo Manzano, Vice President Michelle Amor, and Secretary John Bahia, with Marian Guerra as Senior Advisor.

Huge Turnout at the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York’s 1st Annual Holiday Party

QUEENS, NY (December 4th, 2023) — The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) celebrated a milestone with its inaugural holiday party on Friday, December 1st, 2023, in 58 Manor in Woodside, Queens. The event saw a remarkable turnout, drawing members from both Filipino and broader communities. Distinguished guests included Assemblymember Steven Raga, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, New York State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris, State Senator John Liu, Council Member Julie Won, Shekar Krishnan, Lynn Schulman, and Linda Lee, along with local District Leader Melissa Sklarz.

Founded in 2016 by Aries Dela Cruz, Marian Guerra, and Assemblymember Steven Raga, FADCNY aims to amplify Filipino American voices and advocate for equitable political representation in New York. The Club's significant milestone was the election of the first Filipino American to legislative office in New York State history in 2022. Since the aftermath of the pandemic, FADCNY has reemerged with renewed vigor to continue its impactful work.

“I am overjoyed with the support and turnout we received at our first ever holiday party,” President Enzo Manzano said. “Last night was an opportunity to connect and expand the Club’s community and to begin a collaboration with our elected representatives. Our work is only getting started!”

Assemblymember Steven Raga said, “The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York is very near and dear to my heart, as one of its co-founders. I look forward to supporting and participating with FADCNY to grow the club and encourage our community to mobilize and to be active in the democratic processes in New York.”

Currently, FADCNY is under the leadership of President Enzo Manzano, Vice President Michelle Amor, Secretary John Bahia, with Marian Guerra as the club’s Senior Advisor.

FADCNY Announces New Executive Officers

Following a rebuilding phase, we're thrilled to present our core organizers who will be spearheading initiatives for Filipino Democrats all throughout New York State.

First up, our President, Enzo Manzano! Originally from the Philippines, Enzo moved to New York in 2018. His background boasts of roles in local political campaigns, as District Director in the New York City Council, and currently works on community relations at a non-profit.

Our Vice President, Michelle Amor, has served on the boards of various Filipino American community organizations and worked on local political campaigns. Michelle’s professional career is in finance and tech, and she currently is the Chief of Staff of a family office.

Next up is our Secretary, John Bahia. Born and raised on the island of Saipan, John has worked in local political campaigns and at a community non-profit. He is also a member of his local Queens Community Board, and, currently, works in the New York State Assembly.

Lastly, our Senior Advisor and Co-founder, Marian Guerra. Marian works in government relations for mission-driven organizations. She previously worked as a Deputy Chief of Staff at the New York City Council and worked on program development at the New American Leaders.

Our focus is clear as we strive to politically engage the Filipino American community in New York State on both political and policy fronts.

2024 is fast approaching, and we're preparing. Follow our page to stay tuned!