Bayanihan Equity Center celebrates 25th anniversary
SAN FRANCISCO – Philippine Consul General to San Francisco Neil Frank Ferrer, together with Madame Miriam Ferrer and Deputy Consul General Maria Paz Cortes, graced the Bayanihan Equity Center’s 25th Anniversary Gala last August 14 at the Marines’ Memorial Club in San Francisco.
Established in 1999 as the Veterans Equity Center, the BEC has been instrumental in advancing the welfare of the Filipino World War II veterans and their families, and in pushing for federal legislation to secure compensation from the U.S. government. In 2017, the organization formally changed its name to the Bayanihan Equity Center as it expanded its mission to cater not only to Filipino veterans and their families but also to support other members of the Filipino American and other immigrant communities who are in need.
In his congratulatory message, Consul General Ferrer lauded BEC pioneers particularly Executive Director Luisa Antonio and Atty. Lou Tancinco for their vision and hardwork. He noted that “the BEC has stood as a beacon of hope for Filipino veterans, seniors, immigrants, and countless others who have found not only support, but also dignity and a sense of community”. Consul General Ferrer affirmed that “the Philippine Consulate is proud to stand alongside the BEC as a committed partner in advancing the values of service and solidarity that strengthen our Filipino community.”
The City of San Francisco, as well as Daly City in San Mateo County, through FilAm Council Member Juslyn Manalo, presented the BEC with Resolutions recognizing its invaluable contribution to the community, as well as its significant role in the recognition of Filipino WW II Veterans. San Francisco District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey also presented a Resolution congratulating the BEC for its work in supporting the vulnerable members of the community.
