During a recent government meeting, community leaders and residents gathered to celebrate the proclamation of Filipino American History Month, highlighting the contributions and ongoing struggles of the Filipino American community. Maria, a representative from the Filipino American National Historical Society, announced a free event titled \"Laban,\" meaning \"fight,\" scheduled for October 17th at the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma. The event aims to showcase the resilience of Filipinos and Filipino Americans through various activities, including film screenings, dance performances, and a mini concert by a local choir.

AJ Puquinto, president of the Filipino American Student Association at UW Tacoma, emphasized the importance of recognizing the history and presence of Filipino students in the area, noting the organization's founding in 2012. Malu Valdez, president of the Philippine American League of Pierce County, expressed pride in the community's achievements and the recognition of their contributions.

The meeting also featured Jan Parker, who announced the upcoming opening of her restaurant, Reina Filipina Kitchen Tacoma, in Hilltop. She expressed her commitment to showcasing Filipino culture through food and community engagement.

Kristen Ang, president of the Port of Tacoma Commission, highlighted the significant role of Filipino Americans in various sectors, including healthcare and the maritime industry. She noted her historic election as the first person of color to serve on the commission and discussed the Philippines' status as a top trading partner for the region.

The meeting concluded with a sense of unity and determination among attendees, as they celebrated their heritage and looked forward to future collaborations and developments within the community.