Photo Release

Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano receives plaque of appreciation from ZAMNAI President

Joshua Bicoy and Chairperson of Board of Trustees Donald Pactol

Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano joined the Santacruzan celebration organized by the Zamboanga del Norte Association in Illinois (ZAMNAI) on 30 May 2026 at the Chateau Ritz Hotel in Niles, Illinois.

In her remarks, the Consul General highlighted the strong and longstanding partnership between the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago and ZAMNAI, reaffirming the Consulate’s commitment to supporting the organization’s programs and initiatives that promote Filipino culture and strengthen community ties.

ZAMNAI last hosted a Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo celebration in 2013. This year, the organization revived the cherished cultural and religious tradition to bring together its members and, more importantly, to foster among younger Filipino Americans a deeper appreciation of their heritage and faith.

The Consul General was accompanied by Cultural Officer Mary Joy Duran-Mortel and Protocol Officer Martyn Asker Orcine.

Consul General Melanie Rita Diano (3rd from right), Cultural Officer Mary Joy Duran-Mortel (1st

from right) and Ms. Ann Teano (2nd from right) and ZAMNAI President Joshua Bicoy (3rd from

left at the back) together with officers and members of ZAMNAI.

Reyna Elena Annika Joylyn Darcera Yumol escorted by Constitution Robert Gabriel Darcero leads the procession

Consul General Melanie Rita Diano draws the grand prize winner.