The Outstanding Filipinos in America Awards celebration comes to Honolulu for first time
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The New York-based Outstanding Filipinos in America (TOFA) Awards is hosting its premier Filipino American History Month celebration in Honolulu for the first time on Sunday night.
The annual event honors notable Filipinos across the globe for their achievements in various fields, including arts, business, politics, entertainment and healthcare.
In its 14th year, the ceremony will take place at the Blue Note in Waikiki. Among those from Hawaii being honored:
- Rozita Lee, former Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) advisor to US President Barack Obama, who was born in Lahaina
- Benjamin Cayetano, governor of Hawaii from 1994–2002 and the first Fil-Am to serve as state governor in the U.S.
- Former State Senator Bennette Misalucha, the first Philippine-born senator in the U.S.
- incumbent state representative Trish La Chica
President Joe Biden recognized this year’s TOFA honorees with a special message, and Hawaii Gov. Josh Green declared Oct. 27 as TOFA Awards Day in the state, paying tribute to the sakadas, the first Filipino immigrants who arrived in Hawaii to work on the plantations over a century ago.
“As we commemorate TOFA Day, I encourage all citizens to recognize and celebrate the rich heritage and achievements of the Filipino American community,” Green said in a message recognizing TOFA.
Filipino American pop singer, songwriter and producer Thomas Orlina will perform at the event. Orlina, who has family in Waipahu, joined HNN’s Sunrise to talk about advocating for Filipino issues and mental health.
He also performed part of his new single “Tell Me Your Name,” which is being considered for a Grammy nomination.
For tickets to the TOFA Awards, visit bluenotejazz.com.
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