Filipino American Association of the South Plains (FAASP) is a non-profit organization that was established on December 7, 1991. On December 20, 2013, the group received its Federal Exempt status under section 501(c) (3). Looking back in the mid 80’s, FAASP started with a small group of US servicemen meeting in different locations to formulate friendship and fellowship with Filipinos and Americans. The first President was an officer at Reese Air Force Base in Lubbock, Texas but later relocated elsewhere.
The late Atty. Pat N. Walker who practiced law in Garza County, Texas for over 40 years, and during that period of time served as county attorney and county judge became the legal adviser of FAASP (Fil-Am Association) in 1990. He was the person responsible for formulating the organization’s constitution and by-laws. Atty. Pat N. Walker was married to Lina L. Walker who is a Filipina nurse.
FAASP was organized with the following mission: Draw together the Filipino Americans to perpetuate the Philippine heritage and culture; Promote unity and understanding among Filipinos and Americans; Promote the bayanihan spirit of helping others in times of need, and to pass on the bayanihan spirit and traditions to future generations of Fil-Am and non-Fil-Am; To foster, encourage and continue Filipino customs, culture, and traditions; Raise funds to help those who are in need locally and in the Philippines, and That the Fil-Am Association operates exclusively for charitable purposes.
Over the years, FAASP has been in good hands of its past presidents: Mrs. Carmencita Dye, Mr. Jessie Garcia, Dr. Joel Allas, Dr. Leopoldo Cabrera, Mrs. Nimfa Aguilar, Dr. Carlos Torres, Mrs Janeth Sears, Mr. Keith Leaño, Mrs. Lina Walker-Bishop, Dr. Allan Camacho and Mr. Dale Bishop.
Serving as the new set of officers and board of trustees until 2025 are the following: President - Mr. Jose Noel F. Villegas; Vice President - Mrs. Olivia R. Alvarez, Secretary - Mr. Rommel B. Hover, Treasurer - Mrs. Mary Ann G. Ong, Internal Auditor - Mr. Michael Fernandez and External Auditor – Mr. Dale Bishop. Board of Trustees are: Dr. Jean Kathleen C. Henry, Mr. Keith A. Leaño, Mr. Joel A. Toledo, Mrs. Anna Maria A. Wilde, Mrs. Yolly T. Scheffel, Mrs. Myra B. Farley, with Advisers: Mrs. Lina W. Bishop and Dr. Carlos S. Torres.
With its recent induction on February 24, 2024, the new leadership has a battle cry of “Be one of us and unite.” The newly installed officers will focus on recruitment, fundraising projects and community service. It will also form working committees to further achieve its set goals. A variety of fundraising activities have been identified. This year, FAASP will partner with One Philippines in presenting the 2024 Fiesta Ko Sa Texas, which will be held in Bayou City Event Center on August 4, 2024. Purchasing a Fiesta Ko raffle ticket will raise funds for FAASP.
In his inaugural speech, new FAASP President Jonel Villegas said, “As Filipino-Americans, shall I call it “Westeners / Lubbocaños”, we often reflect on what it truly means to be a Filipino in America. Our journeys here were diverse – many driven by economic aspirations. We sought better opportunities for ourselves and our families. As members of this association, we are encouraged to engage in inspiring programs and organize fundraisers. These efforts maximize our opportunities to support one another in mainstream America and contribute to our home country in meaningful ways. We are here for advocacy and dialogue. We gather to discuss issues that impact our interests as Filipino-Americans. Our voices matter, and by engaging in dialogue, we can advocate for positive change. We are also here for personal growth. Beyond collective goals, we encourage personal growth. Each of us brings unique ideals and perspectives. Together, we create a tapestry of shared values, deep commitment, unity and understanding.”
Publisher and owner of One Philippines, Bhong Zausa welcomed FAASP as one of the partners of Fiesta Ko Sa Texas 2024. He applauded the determination of FAASP to build a stronger FilAm community of South Plains. He said, “One Philippines will support FAASP in all of its efforts to unite Filipino Americans as it is also in line with our organizations mission and vision. Mabuhay and FAASP!”
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