Philippine Consulate General Highlights Dual Citizenship and Stronger PH-U.S. Ties at NAFFAA National Empowerment Conference
Participants of the 16th NaFFAA National Empowerment Conference come together in Aurora, Colorado, reflecting the strength, diversity, and shared commitment of the Filipino-American community to greater civic participation, community empowerment, and stronger ties with the Philippines. The gathering brought together Philippine Government officials, NaFFAA leaders and founders, and Filipino-American community leaders from across the United States in advancing a common vision of an engaged and empowered Filipino-American community, with the next generation ready to carry this legacy forward.
Aurora, Colorado 17 August 2026 – The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco participated in the 16th National Empowerment Conference of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) held in Aurora, Colorado, on 14 August 2026. The conference brought together Filipino-American leaders from across the United States to discuss political and civic empowerment, diaspora engagement, community welfare, and the development of the next generation of Filipino-American leaders.
Consul General Arnel G. Talisayon and Honorary Consul Donna LaVigne led discussions on dual citizenship and strengthening ties with the Philippines, highlighting the continuing importance of Republic Act No. 9225 in enabling Filipino Americans to maintain meaningful civic, economic, and cultural connections with the country. The discussion also underscored opportunities to deepen these ties through consular services, cultural and educational exchanges, community partnerships, and greater engagement of succeeding generations of Filipino Americans.
Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) Chairperson Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II delivered a keynote address highlighting the Philippine Government’s efforts to strengthen engagement with Filipinos overseas. He also promoted programs such as LINKAPIL and YouLeaD, which provide avenues for the diaspora to contribute to Philippine development and for young Filipino Americans to reconnect with their heritage.
The conference also featured NaFFAA founders Jon Melegrito, Michael Dadap, Rodel Rodis, Loida Nicolas Lewis, and Gloria Caoile, who reflected on nearly three decades of Filipino-American advocacy and emphasized the importance of political participation, representation, and leadership succession. The Consulate reaffirmed its commitment to working with NaFFAA and other Filipino-American organizations to strengthen the community’s connection with the Philippines and advance the interests and meaningful participation of Filipinos and Filipino Americans in both countries. END
CFO Chairperson Secretary Dante Francis “Klink” Ang II receives a recognition for his participation in the 16th NaFFAA National Empowerment Conference and his continuing engagement with the Filipino-American community.
Consul General Arnel G. Talisayon provides updates on consular matters, including electronic visas, apostille certificates, and programs such as the VIP Tour, during the 16th NaFFAA National Empowerment Conference.
Consul ad honorem Donna LaVigne discusses dual citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225 and its role in helping Filipino Americans maintain and strengthen their ties with the Philippines.