[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 127 (Wednesday, September 19, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1567]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING 53 YEARS OF EXEMPLARY SERVICE BY THE FEDERATION OF ASIA-
                      PACIFIC WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. MADELEINE Z. BORDALLO

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 19, 2012

  Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Federation of 
Asia-Pacific Women's Association (FAWA) for more than 50 years of 
exemplary service to our community. FAWA has strived to develop mutual 
cooperation and friendship through the advocacy of cultural ties among 
Asian and Pacific Islander women in our region since its origins with 
the General Federation of Women's Clubs and its founding in the 
Philippines in 1959.
  FAWA seeks to improve the lives of members and their communities. 
Their motto, ``Asian Women United for Service'' describes their efforts 
to effect major changes in the status of women in Asia and to work 
towards a better life for the Asia-Pacific region. FAWA accomplishes 
this objective through promoting closer relations and joint efforts 
among Asians, particularly women, by fostering a mutual appreciation of 
cultural, moral and socio-economic values.
  As an honorary president of FAWA, I am proud and excited to host this 
year's convention on Guam. This year's theme, ``Empowering Asia-Pacific 
Women Through Knowledge and Opportunities,'' is fitting, as this 
convention brings together women leaders from across the Asia-Pacific 
region to share experiences and promote the continued growth and 
preservation of women's roles in the Asia-Pacific region. The 
conference will address issues affecting women in the modern world, 
including women and sustainability, women's health issues, and women 
and education. These sessions offer valuable networking opportunities 
for participants, and I encourage all attendees to take advantage of 
this unique group of leaders; to make valuable connections with other 
empowered women in our community.
  I recognize the founders, Minerva G. Laudico and Geronima T. Pecson; 
this organization has carried on their vision and passion across 
generations and national boundaries. I am confident that their legacy 
of service will endure. I commend my fellow Honorary President Cecilia 
Y. Koo, Honorary Advisor Nancy C. Nee, FAWA President Kristal Koga, 
FAWA 1st Vice President Charlene Yang, FAWA 2nd Vice President Mei Woo, 
FAWA 3rd Vice President Jung Sook Kim, Convention Chair Sylvia Crafton, 
Convention Co-Chairs Nancy Tan and Denise Mendiola-Hertslet, and 
members of the FAWA Board of Executives and all the organizing members 
for their efforts in ensuring that this year's conference, like past 
events, will be a success. I congratulate the Federation of Asia-
Pacific Women's Association for their dedication and contributions, and 
I look forward to the continued growth of this organization for many 
more years to come.

                          ____________________