PRESS RELEASE NO. 27-2025

Consul General Talbo (center) congratulated the FCCH Fellows Destiny Class for successfully completing the program.

11 April 2025, Honolulu – Consul General Arman R. Talbo extended his congratulations to the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) Fellows - Destiny Class who successfully completed the leadership program on April 10. Bayani Bala, Emily Cristobal, Denise Della-Sabas, Joyce Kilgore, Joe Bolosan, and Jessica Agsalda joined the 7-month program, which aims to empower emerging Filipino leaders, connect them with industry leaders, and increase their representation in politics, business, and the local community. 

Consul General Talbo observed that, as Filipino-Americans, the fellows are uniquely positioned to uplift both communities. He added that the fellows embody “the songs, hopes, and aspirations of our ancestors, the warmth of our families, the joy of our celebrations, and the deep sense of duty for our country.” Through their acts of service and kindness, they continue the story of remarkable Filipinos in Hawaii and the rest of the U.S.

In her remarks, FCCH President Melody Calisay highlighted the Fellows Program’s contribution to the growing need for the voice of Filipino-Americans to be heard in all aspects of society.

The event was organized by former FCCH Fellows Constancio Paranal, Su Lazo, and Jeff Orig, with the support of the FCCH leadership. Rep. Tina Grandinetti, mentors and colleagues of FCCH Fellows, former batches of FCCH Fellows, and  the graduates’ families and friends, joined the celebration. (END)

Consul General Talbo encourages the fellows to uplift the Filipino-American community in Hawaii.