Event Recap: Filipino Americans for NYC’s Future
Council Member Julie Won, Assemblymember Harvey Epstein, and State Senator Brian Kavanagh joined community members for FADCNY’s Filipino Americans for NYC’s Future — a celebration of Filipino American History Month and the growing political power of Filipino Americans in New York. The night also unveiled FADCNY’s refreshed branding and renewed mission.
Photos by Charles Drucker
Last Friday, the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) hosted Filipino Americans for NYC’s Future at Kalye Rivington, a Filipino restaurant in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Council Member Julie Won, Assemblymember Harvey Epstein, State Senator Brian Kavanagh, and dozens of community members gathered to celebrate Filipino American History Month and build momentum toward the 2025 NYC general elections next month.
Assemblymember Harvey Epstein, one of FADCNY’s endorsed candidates, said it was an honor to join the club in celebration of Filipino American History Month and to be recognized among its endorsed slate. He praised the organization’s work to engage the community in civic life and advance representation across New York, saying, “I look forward to our continued work together to serve our community with heart, advocacy, and a vision for a more just and united city.”
The evening also marked a milestone for FADCNY, which unveiled its refreshed branding alongside a clearer articulation of the principles guiding its work. FADCNY President Michelle Amor said the club’s growth over the past two years made this the right time to solidify its identity and purpose. “This was a moment to reflect on why we do this work and how we carry it forward,” Amor said. “It’s about presenting ourselves with the same clarity and purpose that define the community we represent.”
The new visual identity and merchandise were designed by Paulo Tonn, who described his inspiration: “For Fil Am Dems’ new identity, we took cues from classic New York symbols and landmarks. The torch icon composed with the Grand Central typeface shows respect for the city we love.”
The event was also supported by Dear Flor, a Filipina-owned business inspired by Filipino flavors and culture, which served as the evening’s Advocate Sponsor. Dear Flor Co-Founder & CEO Lisa Reid also provided remarks during the program, sharing her company’s story and connection to the community.
Proceeds from the event will go toward advancing Filipino American power and visibility in New York politics, with portions supporting campaigns for FADCNY’s 2025 endorsed candidates in the general election. Adam Lee, an FADCNY member and founding executive board member of the new Latino Democrats of NYC, noted that the event reflected the organization’s continued growth and reach. "It is amazing how the club continues to grow in its mission by bringing those of Filipino heritage and influence together to engage with elected officials, campaigns, and organizations," Lee said. "I am proud to be a member and excited to see what more the Fil Am Dems will achieve."
Looking ahead, FADCNY will host a Day of Action for Eve Cho Guillergan on Saturday, November 2, the final day of early voting, to help elect her as the first Filipina judge in New York City, running for Civil Court Judge, Queens Municipal Court, District 2. The club will also announce upcoming photo bank sessions for newly endorsed candidates Juleigh Chin, running for Nassau County Legislator, District 9, and Ben Chou, running for New York City Council, District 19. FADCNY will continue co-sponsoring events with Filipinos for Zohran to build collective power leading into Election Day.
Together, these efforts carry forward the momentum from the night and reflect FADCNY’s ongoing commitment to building Filipino American representation and political power across New York.
Statement on the Indictment of Attorney General Letitia James
We stand with her and with all who refuse to let political power override the rule of law.
The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York condemns the wrongful indictment of Attorney General Letitia James. It is a grave abuse of power and a transparent act of political retaliation.
The Trump administration has weaponized the justice system to punish those who hold it accountable.
As New Yorkers, we know the integrity and courage AG James has shown in standing up for justice and protecting our communities. We stand with her and with all who refuse to let political power override the rule of law.
Filipino American Democratic Club of New York: Our purpose, renewed
It’s never been more important to know who you are and what you stand for. That’s why the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York is stepping into this election season with a renewed purpose—guided by a refreshed mission, vision, and values, and represented by a bold new brand identity.
It’s never been more important to know who you are and what you stand for. That’s why the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York is stepping into this election season with a renewed purpose—guided by a refreshed mission, vision, and values, and represented by a bold new brand identity.
This overhaul is more than design. It reflects how far we’ve come as a community, and how much further we intend to go.
Our Mission
To advance Filipino American power and visibility in New York politics by organizing our community, building strong coalitions, and shaping a more just and equitable democracy.
Our Vision
To be a powerful, visible, and integral force in New York politics—where Filipino Americans hold a rightful seat at the table, our contributions are recognized, and our leadership shapes a democracy rooted in fairness, equity, and opportunity for all.
Our Values
Bayanihan as Power: Our culture of caring is our political strength.
Kapwa as Accountability: We act with empathy and responsibility, knowing our futures are linked.
Joy & Hospitality: Politics should feel human and alive—with food, music, and celebration at the center.
Coalition & Solidarity: We stand with AANHPI, immigrant, labor, and allied communities in shared purpose.
We will achieve this by mobilizing our community to participate fully in civic life, fighting for fair representation, and championing progressive values of equity and opportunity. And we’ll do it with authenticity, joy, and new energy that redefines what political engagement can look like.
This is more than a new look. It’s a new chapter for Filipino Americans in New York. And together, we will shape the city’s future.
FADCNY Endorsed Candidates Win Key Races in 2025 NYC Primary, Including Democratic Mayoral Frontrunner Zohran Mamdani
The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) celebrates the success of its endorsed candidates in the 2025 Democratic Primary, most notably Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, who with a commanding lead is the presumptive winner of the Democratic nomination for New York City Mayor. His campaign energized voters across the city and delivered a decisive victory, including in Filipino American neighborhoods like Woodside, Queens, home to Little Manila and the largest concentration of Filipinos in New York City. With Asian Americans now the fastest-growing voting bloc in New York City, Mamdani’s win underscores the power of connecting to all voters, particularly in immigrant and working-class communities.
New York, NY (Friday, June 27, 2025) — The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) celebrates the success of its endorsed candidates in the 2025 Democratic Primary, most notably Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, who with a commanding lead is the presumptive winner of the Democratic nomination for New York City Mayor. His campaign energized voters across the city and delivered a decisive victory, including in Filipino American neighborhoods like Woodside, Queens, home to Little Manila and the largest concentration of Filipinos in New York City. With Asian Americans now the fastest-growing voting bloc in New York City, Mamdani’s win underscores the power of connecting to all voters, particularly in immigrant and working-class communities.
“We’re incredibly proud of our endorsed candidates, and especially Zohran Mamdani, whose commanding lead and presumptive win shows what’s possible when campaigns invest in real community engagement,” said Michelle Amor, President of the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York. “Zohran brought together a diverse coalition and galvanized a new wave of voters who felt truly seen, heard, and energized by his campaign. His showing in Woodside and Elmhurst speaks volumes. We’re excited to continue supporting leaders like him through the general election.”
FADCNY’s 2025 Endorsed Candidates who won their races include:
Zohran Mamdani, New York City Mayor
Mark Levine, New York City Comptroller
Eve Cho Guillergan, Civil Court Judge, Queens Municipal Court District 2
Harvey Epstein, New York City Council, District 2
Linda Lee, New York City Council, District 23
Shekar Krishnan, New York City Council, District 25
Lynn Schulman, New York City Council, District 29
Additionally, FADCNY member and supporter Sheridan C. Chu won his race for Judge of the Civil Court — Queens County.
The wins followed a month of vibrant organizing by FADCNY and its members. The club kicked off early voting with its second annual Summer Sosyal, hosted at the Filipino American woman-owned restaurant Piggyback by Pig & Khao, and attended by leaders including State Senators Zellnor Myrie, John Liu, and Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Assemblymembers Steven Raga, and Harvey Epstein. Last week, FADCNY spoke at the Queens for Mark Levine Rally, hosted by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards alongside several Queens elected officials and labor leaders. Then, the weekend before the primary, FADCNY volunteers fanned out across Queens and Manhattan poll sites to engage voters and support endorsed candidates as part of a club-wide Day of Action.
With the primary behind them, FADCNY remains focused on building Filipino American political power by championing candidates who reflect the community’s values and continuing the fight for equitable resources, language access, and representation. The club looks ahead to sustaining this momentum through the general election and beyond.
FADCNY Announces First Slate of Endorsements in the New York City Democratic Primary
The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) is proud to announce its first-ever slate of political endorsements, marking a milestone moment for Filipino American political representation in New York City. This inaugural slate highlights candidates who reflect the diversity, values, and priorities of Filipino Americans across the five boroughs — including immigrant rights, language access, public safety, affordable housing, labor protections, healthcare access, education, and small business support.
New York, NY (Monday, June 2, 2025) — The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) is proud to announce its first-ever slate of political endorsements, marking a milestone moment for Filipino American political representation in New York City. This inaugural slate highlights candidates who reflect the diversity, values, and priorities of Filipino Americans across the five boroughs — including immigrant rights, language access, public safety, affordable housing, labor protections, healthcare access, education, and small business support.
“What’s most important is that we’re doing everything we can to increase Filipino American visibility in New York City. This slate of endorsements reflects that mission — backing candidates who not only share our values but have demonstrated real commitment to uplifting the Filipino American community. We’re proud to be building the political infrastructure needed to ensure Filipino Americans are seen and heard at every level of city government,” said Michelle Amor, President of the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY).
The 2025 FADCNY Endorsed Candidates are:
Zohran Mamdani, New York City Mayor
Zellnor Myrie, New York City Mayor
Mark Levine, New York City Comptroller
Keith Powers, Manhattan Borough President
Eve Cho Guillergan, Civil Court Judge, Queens Municipal Court District 2
Harvey Epstein, New York City Council, District 2
Erycka Montoya, New York City Council, District 21
Linda Lee, New York City Council, District 23
Shekar Krishnahn, New York City Council, District 25
Lynn Schulman, New York City Council, District 29
Dermot Smyth, New York City Council, District 30
This year’s endorsed leaders include long-standing allies of the Filipino community, labor and tenant rights champions, historic AAPI trailblazers, and policymakers advancing healthcare equity, public safety, education access, and immigrant inclusion. Several candidates have hired Filipino staff, collaborated with FADCNY on events and canvassing efforts, and helped deliver meaningful wins — from securing millions in AAPI funding to passing critical housing and language access legislation. Importantly, 100% of the endorsed candidates have pledged to support expanded Filipino in-language translation options in public services and to advocate for equitable city budget allocations for Filipino Americans, if elected.
“This slate marks a major turning point for Filipinos in New York,” said Assemblymember Steven Raga. “When we founded the FADCNY, the goal was to grow Filipino American political power in a sustained, intentional way. Releasing this first-ever slate of endorsements shows that the community isn’t just showing up — it’s building lasting infrastructure to influence decisions, support candidates, and elevate Filipino American voices at every level. This moment reflects the momentum we’ve built and the continued growth of Filipino civic leadership across the city.”
That momentum has been shaped by years of collective action — from the historic 2022 election of Assemblymember Raga, to FADCNY members’ leadership in Filipino Americans for Harris Walz during the 2024 presidential campaign, to ongoing organizing efforts at the state and national level. Earlier this month, the New York State Democrats AAPI Caucus honored the FADCNY at its AAPI Heritage Month celebration, recognizing the club’s contributions to civic engagement and coalition-building.
Only candidates who applied for endorsement through the FADCNY’s open process were considered. Endorsed candidates were reviewed by the club’s member-led Endorsement Committee and formally approved by the full membership through a democratic voting process.
FADCNY Hosts Energizing Fundraiser Concert to Support Democratic Candidates Up and Down the Ballot
The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY), in partnership with Filipino Americans for Harris Walz (FAFHW) and Taiwanese Americans for Progress, raised over $14,000 at an inspiring fundraising concert held on Friday. The event, hosted at the Upper East Side home of Loida Nicolas Lewis, a trailblazing lawyer, philanthropist, and pillar of the Filipino American community, brought together attendees across both in-person and virtual platforms. The funds raised, driven by small-dollar grassroots donations, will support the re-election campaigns of New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga, State Senator Iwen Chu, and FADCNY and FAFHW’s critical efforts to mobilize members and volunteers for key voter outreach activities locally and nationally.
New York, NY – The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY), in partnership with Filipino Americans for Harris Walz (FAFHW) and Taiwanese Americans for Progress, raised over $14,000 at an inspiring fundraising concert held on Friday. The event, hosted at the Upper East Side home of Loida Nicolas Lewis, a trailblazing lawyer, philanthropist, and pillar of the Filipino American community, brought together attendees across both in-person and virtual platforms. The funds raised, driven by small-dollar grassroots donations, will support the re-election campaigns of New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga, State Senator Iwen Chu, and FADCNY and FAFHW’s critical efforts to mobilize members and volunteers for key voter outreach activities locally and nationally.
The concert featured captivating performances by Filipino American Broadway stars Renee Albulario (Here Lies Love), Emily Borromeo (School of Rock), Liz Casasola (Imelda: A New Musical), co-founder of Broadway Barkada, a collective of Filipino American professional performing artists, and Lora Nicolas Olaes, co-producer of Here Lies Love, along with acclaimed Taiwanese American singer-songwriter Vienna Teng. Each artist inspired the audience through their art and advocacy, conveying strong messages of community and political engagement.
Joel Dabu, Chair of the Host Committee and an active member and volunteer with both FADCNY and FAFHW, reflected on the event: “I am so proud of the incredible energy we witnessed at the ‘Do Something for Freedom Concert.’ Our diverse audience gave standing ovations to the performers and showed passionate support for the growing AAPI political power. The message was clear: when we lift up one, we lift up the entire community."
Doing Something for Freedom: Building AAPI Political Power
State Senator Iwen Chu, the first Asian American woman elected to the New York State Senate, highlighted the urgency of her re-election campaign, facing a tight race against a Republican challenger. Chu initially won by just 500 votes, and she represents one of the state’s most diverse districts, with 50% AAPI residents. Her office provides services in more than 13 languages, ensuring immigrant communities are heard and represented.
Assemblymember Steven Raga, the first Filipino American elected to the New York State Legislature, also joined the event and commented on his competitive re-election battle. His leadership has been crucial in advancing the interests of the Filipino community. Through his efforts, Raga helped secure $1.6 million in federal funding for a community center in Queens—the largest federal grant ever awarded to a Filipino organization in New York State. Michelle Amor, Vice President of FADCNY and FAFHW National Communications Co-Director, emphasized the importance of his re-election: "Steven made history, but what’s truly remarkable is the impact he continues to have. We’ve seen firsthand now the difference it makes to have someone in office who knows our community, understands our challenges, and represents us. It’s critical that we support his re-election so that he can continue the momentum.”
FADCNY's Growing Role in Local Voter Mobilization
In addition to hosting key fundraisers like this concert, FADCNY has been significantly expanding its role in voter mobilization this election season. The organization is now the lead organizing Democratic club for the Queens Blue Bus initiative, a voter mobilization effort in partnership with Congresswoman Grace Meng, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and over 10 other Queens-based elected officials and Democratic clubs. This initiative focuses on mobilizing Queens Democrats to canvass in battleground states and districts, which is crucial for securing Democratic wins both locally and nationally on Election Day.
FADCNY also recently partnered with Congresswoman Grace Meng for voter registration drives last month, further showcasing its commitment to empowering voters and expanding civic participation within the AAPI and Filipino American communities.
Enzo Manzano, President of FADCNY, reflected on the broader impact of the organization: “We are playing a crucial role in this election, not just through events like this concert, but through a range of voter mobilization efforts that are making a difference at both the local and national levels. We are building a movement that extends beyond Election Day, ensuring that Filipino voices remain strong and influential in shaping the future of our communities and the country.”
FADCNY’s efforts during this election season highlight the organization’s growing influence in New York politics and beyond, as it empowers Filipino American and broader AAPI communities to take an active role in shaping the political landscape. The evening served as a powerful reminder of the importance of electing candidates who will champion AAPI communities and secure Democratic victories
FADCNY Hosts Its First Annual Summer Sosyal
On Sunday, July 14th, 2024, the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) hosted its ‘Summer Sosyal’ event at 87 Ludlow, uniting community members, leaders, and elected officials in preparation for the 2024 General Elections. The gathering highlighted the community’s collective commitment to mobilize ahead of the elections. The elected officials present included State Senators John Liu and Brian Kavanagh, along with Assemblymembers Harvey Epstein and Steven Raga, who is the first Filipino American elected to legislative office in New York State.
NEW YORK, NY (Wednesday, July 17th, 2024) - On Sunday, July 14th, 2024, the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) hosted its ‘Summer Sosyal’ event at 87 Ludlow, uniting community members, leaders, and elected officials in preparation for the 2024 General Elections. The gathering highlighted the community’s collective commitment to mobilize ahead of the elections.
The elected officials present included State Senators John Liu and Brian Kavanagh, along with Assemblymembers Harvey Epstein and Steven Raga, who is the first Filipino American elected to legislative office in New York State.
Assembly Member Steven Raga said, “It was an honor to join my fellow elected officials and community leaders at the Filipino American Democratic Club's Summer Sosyal. This gathering is a testament to the growing strength and unity of our community as we gear up for the 2024 General Elections. As the first Filipino American elected to office in New York, I am more than committed to advancing our community's priorities and ensuring we have fair representation at all levels of government.”
“It was great to meet with the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York on Sunday at their Summer Sosyal,” said Assembly Member Harvey Epstein. “This growing Democratic Club is dedicated to advancing Filipino and AANHPI priorities and advocating for fair representation in government. I am happy to work alongside their first Filipino elected official, Assembly Member Steven Raga. The diversity of our legislature must reflect the diversity of the people it serves.”
NY State Senator John Liu stated, "For decades, the Filipino American community has organized and greatly contributed to shaping our political landscape. From Assembly Member Steven Raga’s election as the first Filipino American elected to the state legislature, to this year’s packed Summer Sosyal to mobilize support for the upcoming elections, Filipino Americans and the Filipino American Democratic Club have been integral to empowering and giving voice to our community. Special thanks to club President Enzo Manzano and all the board members and officers for their efforts to make this gathering a success."
“It’s exhilarating to see all our members come together to celebrate both our community and our contributions to New York. Our Summer Sosyal was filled with excitement for all the success that we have achieved together in such a short span of time," said Enzo Manzano, President of FADCNY. “The support we get from our elected officials and community leaders across the city shows that our community has a voice and we aspire for it to continue growing stronger.”
FADCNY’s mission is to empower the Filipino American community across New York State by politically organizing and advocating for progressive values and increasing Democratic representation both locally and nationally. The club is under the leadership of President Enzo Manzano, Vice President Michelle Amor, and Secretary John Bahia, with Marian Guerra as Senior Advisor.
Statement on Democrats Delivering Historic Investments in the Filipino American and AAPI Communities of New York
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.
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
FADCNY celebrated a milestone with its inaugural holiday party, they were joined by Fil-Am community leaders as well as NYS Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris, State Senator John Liu, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., Council Member Julie Won, Council Member Shekar Krishnan, Council Member Linda Lee, Council Member Lynn Schulman, and District Leader Melissa Sklarz.
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.
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!