PAFCOM concludes news writing workshop project in spring, ready to write its community narratives
By Marivir Montebon
The Filipino American organization Philippine American Friendship Community (PAFCOM) concluded its community news writing workshop in New Jersey on April 26, 2025 to enhance its capability to document and publish its own events. Perhaps, the greatest take-away the attendees had were the 5 Wives (what, when, where, why, and who) and 1 Husband (how) in data-gathering and writing.
The workshop was free for the community to join during the spring months of March and April. The participants, all of whom were leaders of PAFCOM, wrote straight news as part of the workshop which was facilitated by Dr. Marivir Montebon, community journalist and co-founder of Awesome Media, Ltd.
PAFCOM officers on the first week of the workshop at the Hank Gallo Center in Jersey City with lecturer-facilitator Dr. Marivir Montebon (left-most).
They were introduced to the basic elements of news and news feature, particularly amused at the 5 Wives and 1 Husband as a tool to gather and write information. Topics on Journalism ethics, Journalism in the era of disinformation, and sustainability tips for PAFCOM’s public communication were also extensively discussed.
PAFCOM’s past chairperson of the Board Dr. Connie Uy said that the workshop was productive. “It was informational and engaging,” she said.
Heavy training and heavy snacking, the PAFCOM way. At the residence of Dr. Connie Uy, PAFCOM concludes an inspirational and helpful newswriting workshop.
Officers Helen Castillo and Racquel Roxanne Cajigas noted that the workshop was inspirational and opened their minds to enhance their programs and write about it.
Board chairperson Rosalinda Rupel thanked Montebon for sharing story ideas and innovation for PAFCOM to be more media savvy and responsive to the community.
PAFCOM is known for its transparency and leadership in celebrating Philippine Independence Day and festival in Jersey City. In 2021, it received the Philippine Presidential Award for Filipino Organizations Overseas, also known as Banaag. #
PAFCOM celebrates 35th anniversary in 2025
By Dr. Connie Uy, M.D. and Ms. Jujo Conol
The Philippine American Friendship Community, Inc, (PAFCOM) is now 35 years old, one of the oldest Filipino American community groups in the East Coast.
Founded in 1990, PAFCOM is a non-profit organization with a 501 (c) (3) status serving the people of Jersey City and the tri-state areas with its various charitable and community projects.
To commemorate its 35 years of existence, President Joyce Castillo announced the various projects such as the barrio fiesta-themed Grand Marshal Ball and Coronation of Muses which will be at the Marriott Hotel in Newark Airport on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 6 to 11 pm.
The PAFCOM Parade and Festivity is set for June 22, 2025, Sunday. It will start with a community mass at 10AM, followed by the traditional parade at 12PM at Lincoln Park in Jersey City.
Grand Marshal Nora Galleros will lead the parade. Invited artists from the Philippines will be featured at the festival as well as the presentation of the 2025 PAFCOM scholars. #
Galleros will walk alongside former NJ Governor James McGreevey, Honorary Grand Marshals Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez, Dr. Lorna Avila, Victoria Ray, and Edward Tolosa.
Galleros is the partner-in-charge of Galleros-Robinson, a certified public accounting and business advisory firm. She has over 20 years of experience in performing consulting, financial audits, and compliance engagements serving the public and private sectors.
In an interview, PAFCOM President Castillo said that her team will focus on the 35th anniversary of PAFCOM and educational series for wellness, finance, and organizational management.
Philippine Consul General of New York Senen Mangalile swore in and congratulated the new officers in January this year. He remarked that the PAFCOM vibe makes him feel that he is in a community. #
