California Makes History: State recognizes Filipino American History Month and forms first-ever legislative caucus

JESSICA CALOZA

Assemblymember Jessica Caloza and Senator Christopher Cabaldon form California''s first
 Filipino American Legislative Caucus

It was a historic Monday afternoon at the State Capitol as the California Legislature officially stepped up to honor the deep, enduring roots of our community. Both the Assembly and Senate adopted House Resolution 102 and Senate Resolution 120, officially declaring October 2026 as Filipino American History Month.

For a community whose historical narrative has too often been pushed to the background, the day was a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come — and how much further we are going.

The celebratory atmosphere in Sacramento kicked off with a special tribute in the Capitol Rotunda, featuring powerful visual displays honoring the first Filipino American elected and appointed officials in California. It was a fitting prelude to a massive milestone: the official announcement of the formation of the first-ever Filipino American Legislative Caucus in California made up of Assemblymember Jessica Caloza and state Senator Christopher Cabaldon.

A seat at the table

“Filipino American History Month honors the generations of Filipino Americans whose hard work, sacrifice, and leadership helped build California into the great state it is today,” said Caloza, who co-authored the resolution with Cabaldon.

Filipinos account for approximately 4.3% to 4.4% of California's total population. This figure explicitly includes individuals of mixed-race heritage who identify as Filipino in combination with one or more other races or ethnic groups. 

Out of California’s estimated 39.35 million residents in 2026, the 1.7 million strong Filipino American community stands as the largest Asian American subgroup in the state and about 40% of all the 4 million Filipinos living in the U.S.

Caloza, the first Filipina elected to the California State Legislature, emphasized that breaking barriers is only the beginning. “My parents immigrated to this country believing in the promise of opportunity ... I carry that responsibility with me—to open doors, lift others up, and ensure Filipino Americans are represented in government.”

Cabaldon echoed that sentiment, reminding everyone in attendance that the Golden State's history is inextricably linked to the diaspora. “The story of California cannot be told without Filipino Americans,” Cabaldon noted. “From the earliest generations of Filipino farmworkers and community builders to the leaders, artists, educators, workers, and entrepreneurs shaping our state today, our community has made extraordinary contributions.”

Caloza also extended deep gratitude to Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas for his leadership in making the historic caucus a reality. “The establishment of the first Filipino American Legislative Caucus is a historic step forward, giving our community a stronger voice, a seat at the table, and a greater role in shaping California’s future.”

Highlights of the 2026 observance:

Legislative Milestone: Authored by the state’s first Filipina legislator, Assemblymember Jessica Caloza, and first Filipino American State Senator, Christopher Cabaldon (HR 102 / SR 120).

Deep Roots: The resolution honors the arrival of the first documented Filipinos in the continental US on October 18, 1587, when "Luzones Indios" stepped ashore in Morro Bay.

National Theme: Guided by the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) theme, "Beyond the Margins: Centering Intersectional Filipino American Histories," focusing on underrepresented voices, LGBTQ+ pioneers, indigenous communities, and disability advocates

JESSICA CALOZA

California's State Capitol was lit up in the colors of the Philippine flag.

Honoring the Champions of Change

The festivities rolled on with an evening reception at the historic Leland Stanford Mansion, celebrating community leaders, activists, students, and allies from all corners of the state.

A major highlight of the night was the recognition of the 2026 Filipino American Champions of Change, honoring trailblazers whose work has left an indelible mark on California and beyond:

• Diosdado “Dado” Banatao: Pioneering engineer and tech innovator.

• Joselyn Geaga-Rosenthal: President Emerita of the Friends of Echo Park Library and Founder of the Carlos Bulosan Book Club

• Emil A. De Guzman: President of the International Hotel Association (1977) and President Emeritus of the Manilatown Heritage Foundation (1996–2010).

• SoCal Filipinos: A vital, leading voice for Southern California’s vibrant Filipino American community.

• Manila International Film Festival: Championing and elevating Filipino cinema into Hollywood and international spotlights.

From Morro Bay in 1587 to the halls of power in Sacramento today, Filipino Americans continue to write their own vibrant chapter of the American story. Here’s to the next generation leading us forward!.

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