In a remarkable gathering that unfolded amidst the vibrant ambiance of the Fil-Am Spring Fest on April 22, 2023, the "One for Juan" event illuminated the hearts of attendees with a shared purpose—to unite, support, and inspire change in the lives of those in need. Held at Citylight Church, Falls Church, Virginia, this event brought together Filipino-American leaders from diverse sectors, including small business owners, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, organizations, alumni, and media, creating a powerful force for good.

Empowering Panel Discussions

At the core of "One for Juan" were four distinguished panel speakers who shared their profound insights and charitable endeavors that have made a lasting impact on society. Each speaker's journey served as a source of inspiration for all those in attendance.

1. Rodney Salinas: Rodney Salinas, Regional Vice President for HUNGRY, a chef-centered food tech platform, demonstrated how businesses can be a force for good. HUNGRY's innovative Carbon Neutral Initiative, which plants mangrove trees in the Philippines for every catering order, exemplifies their commitment to offsetting carbon emissions and making a positive environmental impact.

2. Dr. Joseph Arzadon: As co-founder and President of the Medical Mission of Mercy USA (MMOM USA), Dr. Joe shared the remarkable impact of MMOM USA's medical missions in the Philippines and Guatemala. With a focus on providing surgeries, consultations, and health education to underserved communities, MMOM USA has transformed the lives of over 72,000 individuals.

3. Roberto Llames, President of Enterprise Solutions, Inc., and Managing Director of the SMART Development Institute, highlighted the role of technology and digital transformation in building smart communities and cities. His commitment to sustainability, resiliency, and improving citizens' quality of life was a testament to the power of innovation.

4. Carolina Roa's journey from a successful career to becoming a missionary for International Care Ministries (ICM) demonstrated the transformational impact of faith and service. Her role in promoting global awareness for ICM aims to uplift ultra-poor communities in the Philippines, addressing not only their physical needs but also bringing the gospel of Jesus to provide hope and transformation.

Special Messages of Encouragement

Consul General Iric Arbas, representing the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC, delivered a special message from Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, expressing admiration for the organizers and community leaders for their dedication to making a difference in society. His words resonated with our shared commitment to helping Filipinos in need.

We were also honored to receive a heartfelt message from Republic of the Philippines Vice President Sara Duterte. She expressed her warmest greetings to the men and women behind the International Care Ministries Foundation Incorporated, commending their selfless efforts in providing assistance to various communities in Visayas and Mindanao. Vice President Duterte recognized their poverty alleviation measures, livelihood opportunities, and social empowerment initiatives that continuously serve the greater good of our kababayans both at home and abroad.

In her message, Vice President Duterte pledged her support to initiatives that promote the improved welfare of less fortunate Filipinos in the country. She expressed confidence that every help received by ICM would contribute to more capacity-building platforms, enabling the implementation of sustainable strategies for poverty reduction and inclusive community development.

Furthermore, Vice President Duterte called upon everyone to join in the mission of building a strong network of overseas Filipino workers dedicated to stimulating lasting socio-economic growth in our beloved Philippines. Her words resonated deeply with the shared commitment of all those present.

Hosted by Visionary Leaders

The event was expertly hosted by visionary leaders Michael San Juan, President of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Washington, DC (PACC), and Mariel Adriano Kabin, PACC Secretary. Their leadership and guidance ensured that "One for Juan" ran smoothly and effectively.

Joyce Puno, Fil-Am Fest DC Lead Organizer, conveyed heartfelt thanks to the community for their support and issued a powerful message of inspiration to all leaders who step up to make a meaningful impact in society.

The event also featured a special appearance by Dale Sutherland, President of International Care Ministries (USA), who provided insights into how ICM has impacted the lives of ultra-poor families and communities in the Philippines through the Transform program. Transform is ICM's core strategic program designed to address a wide range of needs faced by families living in ultra-poverty.

A Shared Mission of Compassion

"One for Juan" not only celebrated the achievements of these inspirational leaders but also ignited a shared mission of compassion and service among all attendees. It exemplified the essence of the Fil-Am Spring Fest—to celebrate culture, make an impact, and inspire change.

Before concluding, participants of the Fil-Am Spring Fest had the opportunity to showcase their businesses, missions, and endeavors, further highlighting the incredible potential when a community comes together for a noble cause.

"One for Juan" demonstrated the power of unity and compassion within the Filipino-American community. It served as a testament that when leaders with purpose-driven hearts unite, they can create meaningful change and transform lives for the better. The event was a resounding success, leaving a lasting imprint of hope and inspiration in the hearts of all who attended.