City of Carson Comes Together to Celebrate Filipino American History Month

Winners of the Adobo Cook-Off, Chef Noria Valiente -winner, Chef Johnny Itliong -2nd place, and Chef Lawrence Flinton -3rdplace

CARSON — The City of Carson recently celebrated the Filipino American History Month with a grand event. The community came together to honor the rich heritage and significant contributions of Filipino Americans with an array of activities that perfectly blended tradition with modernity.

The tone of the event was set by Court of the Mr. Philippines USA 2024 who emceed the majority of the program. The highlight of the celebration was the inaugural Adobo Cook-Off sponsored by Faring, where Carson’s finest chefs showcased their culinary skills, stirring up an array of delectable adobo variations in a friendly yet fierce competition. The air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of this beloved Filipino dish, as the cooks vied for the title of Adobo Champion.

The excitement was further amplified by the presence of Apl.de.Ap, the renowned co-founder of the Black-Eyed Peas and a proud advocate of Filipino culture. His participation as a judge in the cook-off added a touch of glamor and underscored the event’s theme of community and creativity. The other judges included Rex Navarrete, Councilwoman Arleen Rojas, Chef Tomecko Jackson and Cultural Officer Edel Valencia from the Philippine Consulate General’s Office.

In addition to the culinary showdown, the event featured a unique car show, displaying Apl.de.Ap’s collection of retrofitted classic electric vehicles. This exhibition was more than just a showcase of cars; it was a statement on sustainability and the innovative spirit of the Filipino American community. The vehicles, a blend of vintage charm and modern technology, symbolized the progressive mindset that is a hallmark of Filipino American ingenuity.

The entertainment program was equally memorable, with performances that captivated the audience and celebrated the dynamic Filipino American identity. Myrna Salas and Dr. Jenny Batongmalaque were recognized for their leadership through community awards. Rex Navarrete, a pioneer in comedy, had the crowd roaring with laughter, Apl.de.Ap’s impromptu mini concert with Janice Javier left an indelible impression. Leo Mercedez and Debralee Daco, each with their unique musical styles, added to the day’s festivities, creating a tapestry of sound that was both vibrant and soul-stirring.

As the event drew to a close, it was evident that the Filipino American History Month Celebration had achieved its goal of paying homage to the cultural legacy of Filipino Americans. This was evident in the audience’s participation in Filipino American History trivia throughout the day. It was an immersive experience as many participated in Tinikling, a traditional Philippine folk dance which originated prior to Spanish colonialism, including the Mayor and Councilwoman Rojas. 

“It was a day filled with joy, laughter, and a shared sense of heritage, leaving attendees looking forward to next year’s celebration with great anticipation. The City of Carson takes immense pride in having hosted such a meaningful event, one that not only honored the past but also paved the way for a future rich in cultural diversity and mutual respect,” said Mayor of Carson Lula Davis-Holmes.