Filipino Americans to Celebrate 127th Philippine Independence Day in Louisiana's Historic Jean Lafitte
Press Release for June 7, 2025 - Filipino Americans across Louisiana and neighboring states will gather in Jean Lafitte on June 7, 2025, to commemorate the 127th Philippine Independence Day. This eagerly awaited event will honor the resilient "Manila Men"—the Filipino pioneers who established the first permanent Asian American settlements in the U.S.—and celebrate the vibrant heritage of Filipino Americans today.
Organized by the Philippine-Louisiana Historical Society (PLHS) in collaboration with the Philippine Consulate-New Orleans Office and the Town of Jean Lafitte, the festivities will begin with a flag ceremony at Manila Village Plaza, where historical markers will remind attendees of the courage and sacrifices of the first Filipino settlers in Louisiana. Philippine Honorary Consul Robert Romero will deliver a keynote address that highlights their contributions to shaping Louisiana’s history and their enduring legacy for generations of Filipino Americans.
This year's theme "Embrace and Preserve our Culture" involves celebrating our traditions—through language, music, food, dance, and stories—that connect us to our roots and give us a sense of identity.
Preserving our Filipino culture means not only keeping these practices alive but also passing them down, evolving them to remain relevant in a modern world without losing their core values. By sharing our heritage with others and fostering pride in our unique history, we create a bond that strengthens our community and empowers us to face the future while staying true to who we are.
Guests will enjoy a lively reception featuring traditional Filipino dishes like lechon, afritada, pancit, and ube halaya, prepared by dedicated volunteer chefs. Performances of Filipino dances—including the Rigodon de Honor, Tinikling and many more—will bring energy and artistry to the event, while talented singers will serenade the audience with classic Tagalog songs.
In last year's celebration, Mayor Tim Kerner, Jr., himself a descendant of Filipino settlers, emphasized how their spirit and values continue to inspire resilience within the local community. "Their love for family, pride in heritage, and unwavering faith will always be integral to our identity here in Jean Lafitte," he expressed.
“June 12 is a milestone in the history of Filipino people. In celebrating this cherished date, we pay homage to all the men and women, known and unknown, who sacrificed their lives and their future in exchange for the country’s freedom,” said PLHS founding president and Philippine Honorary Consul of New Orleans Robert Romero in his welcome message last year.
Former Mayor Tim Kerner Jr., who is a descendant of a Filipino settler himself, graced the occasion with his presence alongside his wife and daughter as well as his mother Darla Kerner (a descendant of General Juan Rojas) and his father Tim Kerner Sr., who is the former mayor of Jean Lafitte and now a Louisiana representative.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM LAST YEAR'S CELEBRATION - June 12, 2024
127th Philippine Independence Day in Louisiana
With GMA Pinoy TV as the official media sponsor, the event kicked off with a flag ceremony right on the actual site of the Manila Village and Clark Cheniere historical markers located in front of the Jean Lafitte Town Hall. It was followed by a lunch reception and cultural showcase inside the town's auditorium. The Manila Village and Clark Cheniere, along with St. Malo in St. Bernard Parish, were the first permanent Filipino settlements in the USA, which were established in the 1800s. Attendees viewed a pre-recorded message from Philippine Senator Risa Hontiveros, celebrating the Filipino American community’s shared legacy of perseverance and bayanihan (community spirit).
“The Filipinos were the first ones here, and they have made a great contribution not only in hospitals and our economy but also in South Louisiana politics. I want to continue carrying that torch, and I want to continue honoring my heritage,” expressed Mayor Kerner, Jr. with pride.
He added by saying, “People start to wonder what gives Jean Lafitte the courage and resilience to get back up after being hit hard so many times. The only common denominator I can think of is those Filipinos who came with their love for family, their pride, their belief in God, and their hard work.”
Kerner, Sr. remarked how their town is alive and strong because of his son’s leadership. “Your ancestors will be proud of you,” he proudly applauded his son. Kerner, Jr. later told the community about his grandfather to be the oldest living Rojas descendant and his daughter to be the youngest living descendant.