Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles

On World Refugee Day, the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles joins the global community in recognizing the strength and resilience of refugees around the world.

The Philippines has long upheld a proud tradition of extending compassion and protection to those forced to flee conflict, violence and persecution.

As we mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 45th anniversary of the Philippines' accession to the Convention, we honor a proud legacy of compassion, solidarity and protection and we commit to continue rebuilding lives, restoring dignity, and creating pathways to hope.

The Philippines stands .

Today, we are joined by 38 Sentro Rizal sites around the world in one shared cultural moment. From different countries, cities, and communities, Filipinos come together through a simple question:

“Kumusta na kayo d'yan?”

As we celebrate Dr. Jose Rizal's 165th Birth Anniversary today, and in anticipation of the 15th Anniversary of Sentro Rizal, we share glimpses of Filipino life, identity, and connection across borders.

From Filipinos in the U.S. Southwest to Filipinos everywhere, this is our message across the world.

Sentro Rizal, Sentro ng Filipino. Tuloy po kayo.



National Commission for Culture and the Arts
International Cultural Programs

The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles joins Filipinos in Southern California, Southern Nevada, and Arizona in proudly honoring and celebrating the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. joins the Filipino people in commemorating the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence.

In his message, the President calls on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the nation’s heroes and work together in advancing the common good. He likewise expresses hope that the occasion will deepen the people’s understanding of the past and inspire a renewed sense of duty to the country as the nation continues building a Bagong Pilipinas “worthy of the sacrifices that secured our sovereignty and of the dreams and aspirations that gave birth to our Republic.”

The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles is deeply saddened to announce the untimely passing of a beloved and esteemed colleague, Senior Trade Representative Michelle Fatima S. Sanchez.

STR Michelle was a seasoned foreign trade representative who was thoroughly committed and dedicated to promoting the Philippines’ domestic and overseas economic and development interests.

STR Michelle assumed her duties as head of the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Los Angeles on 1 July 2025. She worked devotedly in promoting and supporting the efforts of Filipino businesses to break through and expand in the U.S. Southwest, Hawaii, American Samoa and French Polynesian markets.

She previously served at PTIC Offices in Bangkok, Sydney, New York and London. At the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Manila, she served in various capacities, including as DTI-Coordinator for the International Trade Group and Technical Assistant to the DTI Secretary, as Technical Assistant to the Senior Undersecretary and was cross-posted to the Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Commission. She was Executive Director of the Committee on ASEAN Economic Community and Assistant Secretary and Coordinating Officer of the DTI’s Foreign Service Corps prior to her final overseas deployment.

Before joining the government, STR Michelle worked with the Philippine Exporters Confederation and developed its range of export support services and policy advocacy program. She was also involved in consulting for trade development programs and in crafting the first medium-term Export Development Plan of the Philippines.

She graduated cm laude with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of the Philippines. She completed her graduate studies in business with an MBA in International Business and Export Management at the City University Business School in London, UK, under a British Chevening Scholarship.

STR Michelle, whose quiet strength and warmth could not help but shine through under her professional and reserved demeanor, will be deeply missed. Her passing is mourned by her family, friends, and colleagues from near and far.

STR Michelle is survived by her three sisters, Myra, Melinda and Maryola. Details on arrangements celebrating Michelle will be announced by the family at a later date.

Rest in Peace Michelle. We will miss you.