In Recognition of the Hawaii FIlipino Centennial Celebration

IN RECOGNITION OF THE HAWAII FILIPINO CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION -- (Extensions of Remarks - December 08, 2005)

* Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the great contributions of the Filipino community to Hawaii's diverse and multicultural society, as we commemorate the arrival of the first Filipinos and the community's subsequent achievements in Hawaii.

* Since the arrival of the first Filipinos to Hawaii in 1906, the rich culture and proud heritage of the Filipino people have been and continue to be a positive influence upon life in Hawaii. Next year marks the 100th anniversary of their arrival in Hawaii. The Centennial Celebration will reflect the courage, values, pride and dedication of all Filipinos. The Celebration will also raise awareness about the important accomplishments of Filipinos for the past 100 years in the fields of politics, education, business, labor, industry and medicine. It will raise awareness about the challenges and struggles that Filipinos have faced to earn their rightful place in society.

* The Centennial Celebration reflects the growing significance of the Filipino community, its growing role in the development of public policy, and its increasing contributions to policy leadership at every level of government--local, state and national.

* Mahuhay and best wishes to the Filipino Centennial Commission and everyone in the Filipino community who has joined together to celebrate Hawaii's Filipino Centennial. You have the nation's thanks for your contribution, and you can count on my continued support.

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