[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 89 (Friday, June 28, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1195]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   TRIBUTE TO PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY AND THE FILIPINO AMERICAN 
                           COMMUNITY COUNCIL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONOIR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 27, 2002

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Filipino 
American community of Michigan, who celebrated the Philippine 
Independence Day on June 22, 2002.
  On July 4 of 1946 the Philippines gained its independence. Since that 
glorious day, the nation has endured many hardships but has continued 
to persevere. The Philippines and its proud citizens are entering into 
a new era of political, social, and cultural growth. They possess a 
focused vision of their future and will do all they feel is necessary 
to ensure prosperity.
  The relationship between the United States and the Philippines is 
strong and growing stronger. Today, the United States is enriched by 
the many Philippine Americans who have made this country their home. As 
the second largest Asian group in the United States, Philippine 
Americans are making their mark, serving as hard working members of the 
civic, business, and professional communities. They have made major 
contributions to nearly every facet of American society.
  As Michigan is home to a thriving Filipino American community, we 
have the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments and contributions 
of a fabulous people. The Filipino American Community Council's 
KALAYAAN 2002 Picnic and Pistahan attests to the wealth of the culture 
we have developed here in Michigan. With food, music, cultural 
performances and dances, the spirit and enthusiasm of the Philippine 
American community of Southeastern Michigan is very strong. The 
Philippine American community truly adds to the wonderfully diverse 
American culture by sharing with us their customs, traditions and 
beliefs. They have been such an invaluable asset to our great state.
  Mr. Speaker, I join the people of the Philippines, those of Filipino 
ancestry around the world and Filipino Americans in Michigan 
celebrating Independence Day. I salute all of them for the tremendous 
contributions to freedom and human dignity which they have made.

                          ____________________