RECOGNIZING THE EXEMPLARY CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE FILIPINO PEOPLE TO THE COMMUNITY OF GUAM IN CELEBRATION OF FILIPINO AMERICAN MONTH; Congressional Record Vol. 165, No. 172
(Extensions of Remarks - October 30, 2019)
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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1374-E1375]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING THE EXEMPLARY CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE FILIPINO PEOPLE TO THE
COMMUNITY OF GUAM IN CELEBRATION OF FILIPINO AMERICAN MONTH
______
HON. MICHAEL F.Q. SAN NICOLAS
of guam
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Mr. SAN NICOLAS. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor to rise today in
celebration of Filipino American History Month. During this month of
October, we take the time to recognize and commend the innumerable
contributions of our Filipino-Americans. As Filipino American History
Month comes to an end, it is important that we reflect on the
historical events that that have enriched our island and our country
into prosperity.
The island of Guam and the Philippine nation share a mirrored
colonial history, having both been under Spanish rule for hundreds of
years and later governed by the United States. At the end of World War
II seventy-five years ago, many Filipinos left their families and their
homes to help rebuild Guam from the destruction left by the Imperial
Japanese's three-year occupation of the island. Filipinos continue to
bring their expertise in construction and labor to the island in the
wake of man-made and natural disasters, for this we are grateful.
Today, Filipinos on Guam remain a true pillar of our community. They
continue to play
[[Page E1375]]
vital roles by providing professional and economic support in the
fields of healthcare, education, and infrastructure. With Filipinos
proudly being the second largest ethnic demographic on Guam, one can
easily discover unique Filipino hubs filled with Filipino cuisine,
fashion, and pop culture throughout Guam. Furthermore, their
significant contributions are evidenced through the many community
organizations formed for the benefit of charity, education assistance,
and goodwill.
The peoples of the Philippines and Guam's shared history, culture,
and traditions will forever bind us. Our shared pursuit of the CHamoru
cultural foundation of harmony and striving to do good for all,
(inafa'maolek) has been easily achieved and manifested in the melting
pot of Guam due to the strong relationship fostered by the Filipino
Community in Guam and the people of Guam.
Madam Speaker, I am honored to reflect upon the rich history &
contributions of Filipino-Americans. Throughout America's history,
present, and future, the Filipino community has played and will
continue to play a major role in enriching the quality of life for the
people of the United States, and for their outstanding contributions
they are worthy of our respect and gratitude. On behalf of the People
of Guam, I extend our great thanks (un dangkulu na Si Yu'us ma'ase) to
all Filipinos in Guam and across our nation.
____________________
