This week, Honolulu is set to shine brightly in the colors of the Philippine flag as the city celebrates Filipino American History Month. In a gesture of solidarity and recognition, the iconic Honolulu Hale and Neal S. Blaisdell Arena will be bathed in red, blue, and yellow lights—the hallmark hues of the Philippine flag. The special lighting event is scheduled to commence at sunset tomorrow, October 20, and will last until sunrise on Tuesday, October 21.
In the lead-up to this vibrant spectacle, a Philippine flag was raised at Honolulu Hale, signaling a prelude to the grand illumination. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi took the morning occasion to deliver an official proclamation, as reported by honolulu.gov. The proclamation not only designates October as Filipino American History Month in the City and County of Honolulu but also pays homage to the generations of Filipino Americans who have left an indelible mark on Hawaii's cultural landscape.
"From the earliest sakadas who arrived more than a century ago to the generations of Filipino Americans who continue to serve our community today, their strength, compassion, and hard work have profoundly shaped the character of our island home," Mayor Rick Blangiardi told honolulu.gov. This event is a way for the community to express its gratitude and to showcase the pride the city feels for its Filipino American residents.
With a significant Filipino American population, Hawai‘i marks Filipino American History Month by remembering the arrival of the first Filipinos in the United States on October 18, 1587. All across O‘ahu, throughout October, various institutions and cultural organizations are hosting events aimed at highlighting the contributions, culture, and leadership of Filipino Americans.
