Celebrating 1999 …. Passing of the Torch

​

A year to remember indeed! It was a privilege to be entrusted to lead the Filipino-American Association of SCV as the youngest President in the Association’s illustrious history to another successful year heading into the New Millennium. Backed by a dynamic, dedicated, hard-working, and fun-loving Board of Directors and Advisors, 1999 was a year many of us will never forget.

​

To the 1999 Officers, members, and those who served before and after… Thank you for giving so much of yourselves in making the Filipino American Association one of the best organizations in existence!!!

​

​

Fil-Am: Fond Memories, Lasting Friendship, & True Love       

By: Nico Montenbon

​

Papa Nic’s journey with Fil-Am began when he met a group of young men who welcomed him into their inner-circle or “barkada”. It did not take long for their friendship to blossom into a special bond & today he considers them his dearest friends. It is through Fil-Am where Papa met a beautiful young lady, Mommy Flo, working at the family owned Sari-Sari store in 1991, so beautiful that Papa fell in love and married mommy in 1998. 

​

With the support of family & friends, the Coalition of Young Pilipino Americans (CYPA) was created in 1993.  The CYPA was a youth/young adult group which embarked on fun-filled projects including civic work, social activities, & served as the highlight of many Filipino American Association June Festival Cultural shows & other activities. CYPA’s hard work did not go unnoticed, receiving numerous commendations from then SCV Mayor, Jill Klajic. Being the first elected President of CYPA was a momentous accomplishment for Papa, resulting in being recognized as the first ever “Outstanding Youth” award recipient during Fil-Am’s 10th Anniversary in 1993.

​

History was made on February 6, 1999 when Papa was inducted as the 16th & the youngest president at the age of 27. Despite of his age, he was able to continue the success of Fil-Am. Papa said, “I was blessed to be surrounded with dedicated & hard-working Board Members and Advisors”. The year was filled with numerous activities, but the highlight of Papa’s tenure was the June Festival, where the young adults and the youth showcased their acting, singing, & dancing talents in a play titled “Kabataan”, depicting their own fictional & comical version of Philippine History. The year 1999 was the epitome of team work at its best; uniting & bridging the gap between the different generations, making 1999 a year to remember.