Contact: Chris Rivera christophermrivera@hotmail.com

In its tenth year, the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia presents “Taste of the Philippines USA” on Sunday, October 1, 2023 from 1-5 p.m.  Thanks to the PECO Multicultural Series, this business and cultural expo shares the many layers of the Philippine experience.

Food will be a highlight of the event, as it has been since its first iteration at the inaugural event that celebrated the founding of the organization in 2013. After several years housed at the historic Reading Terminal Market, the event moved to its current home at Cherry Street Pier, a move that was briefly halted due to the Pandemic. “Taste of the Philippines USA” debuted at the renowned Penn’s Landing venue last Fall and further survived a competing Eagles football game and inclement weather.

The organization hopes to exceed the mild success of 2022 with both legacy vendors and new additions to the lineup. Among the returning businesses is Tabachoy restaurant, a South Philadelphia newcomer. Chef/owner Chance Anies only recently expanded from his mobile food cart to a brick-and-mortar that has attracted the attention of publications like The Wall Street Journal, Eater, and Philadelphia Magazine. Vendor debuts include Sisterfriend Jewelry. A combo of friends co-own the business that features made-to-order, handmade jewelry, as well as a product line that captures their Philippine cultural experience. The duo was featured last fall on FOX29’s “Good Day Philadelphia.”

The program for the day, hosted by media personalities Christie Ileto of 6abc and Tim Jimenez of KYW Newsradio, will feature a plethora of local talent, as well as guests from the West. Vocalists include recording artists Lana Holgado and Elaine Ficarra (former Miss Philadelphia), as well as student/athlete-turned-author/singer Mia Bompensa, and “America’s Got Talent” contestant Zoe Erianna, who is one of the few aspiring talents to get “yes” from all four judges.

The Philippine Folk Arts Society will present its “rondalla,” a Philippine stringed ensemble that is largely popular in the Delaware Valley. Coming all the way from western Pennsylvania is the Filipino American Association of Pittsburgh Dance Troupe sharing expertise in Philippine folk dances.

Chamber President and “Taste of the Philippines USA” Producer Chris Rivera remarks, “Filipinos are known the world over as uber-hospitable and a proud people. We are quick to share our unique cultural experiences, which include the challenges that minority- and immigrant-run businesses have historically faced, which is why this event and what it represents is so important to me. I hope it presents what amounts to be a cornucopia of business opportunities, both fully realized ideas, and those still in the brainstorming stage.” Rivera continues,”We, at the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, hope to be the bridge to opportunity.”

The event is sponsored by Tanduay Rum, a Philippine brand rum that is rated as the world’s number one selling rum by The Spirits Business magazine, and will be featured in special cocktails at The Garden at Cherry Street Pier. The event is also sponsored by Financial Rescue, a San Francisco-based finance company that spans investment protection, a broad offering of loans, and support to recover from financial woes, amongst other services. Community partners include the Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia.

The event is free to the public, but requires registration to attend. Attendees should visit bit.ly/TOTP2023TIX to register.

The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia reflects the full spectrum of Filipinos and Americans both here in the USA and in the Philippines who have recognized the value of organizing an effective organization that will serve as a vehicle of communications and increased business opportunities for its members and will benefit our surrounding communities through economic development, job creation, and an enhanced social climate between our countries. Visit philamchamber-greaterphila.com, or email philamchamberphilly@gmail.com for more information. The Chamber can also be found on Facebook and Instagram using the handle @philamchamberphilly.