“A Taste of Kalihi”, organized by the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) in cooperation with the City and County of Honolulu, is an annual block party celebration held in Kalihi, the home to a thriving population of Filipinos and Filipino businesses in the state.

Figures from the 2014 US Census say that a little less than 50 percent of the total number of Filipinos in Hawaii, the largest ethnic group in the state, live in urban Honolulu, which includes Kalihi, while the remainder are scattered in Central Oahu, such as Ewa Beach, Waipahu and Waianae.

In her remarks, Philippine Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin expressed optimism that this annual celebration will serve as a catalyst in improving and diversifying Kalihi’s economic base as its companies, local businesses and community organizations converge altogether to highlight the unique aspects of the central Honolulu-town.
Hawaii government officials including Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell, Hawaii Senator Donna Mercardo Kim, Hawaii Representative Romy Cachola, Honolulu Council Chair Ernie Martin, and Councilmember Joey Manahan graced the occasion and gave remarks.

The all-day event featured the bustling activity of Kalihi, in a family event aimed at celebrating the district's historical past and providing a glimpse into what Kalihi has to offer Honolulu. 
During the event, an estimated 8,000 attendees and visitors were able to experienced Kalihi’s delicious cuisine, reflective of the district’s ethnic diversity. Around fifty (50) local exhibitors, businesses and community organizations were on-site to support the Festival, answer queries and display their wares to the public. Guest were also treated to live entertainment and activities such as dance exhibitions, live music, and a “keiki” (children) zone ride area.

The Philippine Consulate General had its own booth where it distributed consular forms, Philippine tourism and investment materials, and answered inquiries from those who visited the booth. (END).