Celebrating Culture: Filipino American History Month Assembly Brings Our Community Together
- Jessica Paige Glenn
- Oct 29, 2025
- 3 min read
Music, laughter, and color filled the parish hall as students gathered to celebrate Filipino American History Month through dance, song, and storytelling. From preschoolers to middle schoolers, the entire St. Victor community joined in honoring the beauty and spirit of Filipino culture — a celebration of heritage, family, and belonging.
Two of our 8th graders performed a traditional Filipino dance, showcasing the grace and rhythm that connect generations across the islands of the Philippines. Our music teacher, Mrs. Leslie “Mrs. L” Legacion Campos, led the community in a moving rendition of the Philippine National Anthem, sung beautifully in Tagalog.
Adding to the celebration, students who wore traditional Filipino attire participated in a lively runway showcase, proudly displaying the many fabrics, styles, and designs that reflect the country’s incredible regional diversity. We learned that the Philippines is made up of more than 5,000 islands, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and clothing — and our students’ outfits beautifully captured that spirit of variety and pride. From barongs and butterfly-sleeved terno dresses to colorful woven textiles, the showcase offered a joyful glimpse into the richness of Filipino culture.
Ms. Celeste Viray, our Preschool Director, provided heartfelt reflections on the meaning of this month — reminding us how the Filipino community has long contributed to our nation, our Bay Area, and our St. Victor family. One story especially close to home came from a current St. Victor student, whose great-great-grandfather was a World War II veteran who fought for Filipino soldiers to receive the benefits they had earned for their service. His courage and advocacy offered students a powerful reminder that one person’s voice can spark change, and that the impact of Filipino Americans continues to be felt across generations — even within our own community.
Her message reminded students that celebrating heritage also means recognizing how each of us can make a difference in building a more connected, compassionate world.
The celebration continued with special guest Faith Kazmi, a Filipino American author who shared her book Box of Dreams. Through her story, students learned about balikbayan boxes — packages filled with gifts and love that Filipino families send home to relatives in the Philippines. The term balikbayan, meaning “to return home,” became a touching lesson in generosity, gratitude, and belonging.
The celebration extended beyond the stage and into the schoolyard, where students were treated to a sampling of Filipino food prepared and served by parent volunteers. From savory bites to sweet treats, the tasting brought the flavors of the Philippines to life — connecting students to culture through one of the most universal languages of all: food. The experience sparked conversations, curiosity, and appreciation for the hospitality that is at the heart of Filipino culture.
What It Means to Be a Charger
At St. Victor, we teach our students that celebrating culture is another way of celebrating community. By learning from one another’s stories and traditions, our students discover that diversity is a reflection of God’s creativity, and connection is the heart of who we are.
Our Filipino American History Month Assembly reminded us that being a Charger means honoring your story, celebrating others, and building a community where everyone belongs.
And just as one Filipino American veteran made a difference for many, our students are reminded that they, too, can make an impact with one act of courage, kindness, or advocacy at a time.
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