TO commemorate the second anniversary of the Filipino American Friendship Monument, a very successful “3-in-1 Event” was held at the Glendale Adult Recreation Center (ARC) hosted by the Filipino American Business Association of Glendale (FABAG-GLAC).

The no-fee event started with a “Meet and Greet,” followed by an informational workshop on “How to Apply for a Business Registration Certificate in Glendale.” The workshop was conducted by the City’s Community Development Department, Neighborhood Services. Staff members present were Tamar Sadd, Deputy Director, and Jessica Sada and Mania Awakian who did the presentation. It was a community outreach program by FABAG to help small businesses who get lost in the intricacies of the application process and understand why they need the license. Licenses were processed on-site and issued on the spot. A book launch, “Marriage is a Marathon” was done by Anthony Pangilinan and Paul Villar. New members also signed up during the event.

After the workshop, a reception followed to celebrate the 2nd year anniversary of the historic Fil-Am Friendship Monument. Dignitaries and Special Guests included Hon. state Senator Anthony Portantino, Phil. Vice Consul Ralph Jacob Viloria, Amanda Faissel from

Assemblymember Friedman’s office, Mayor Elen Asatryan, Councilmember Kassakhian, FACLA’s Trini Foliente, Cora Oriel, JR and Chit Ongkeko, Josie Inacay, Sonia Bermejo and many more.

The monument is a tribute to Ruby De Vera, one of the founders and past presidents of FABAG who passed away in 2022 and a thank you to all the past presidents. The monument is also a symbol of friendship and gratitude to the entire community. FABAG board and members present were: Lydia Soriano, past president and one of the founders; Arleen Penaflor, Ami Bautista, Emett Carr, May Mallari, Perla Santos, Nora Yacoubian, Robert Howard, Jay Perez and the author of this article.