Photo Release

CONSULATE GENERAL JOINS UNVEILING OF “RIZAL CENTER HERITAGE MURAL”

On 13 June 2026, the Consulate General, represented by Consul Melvin Almonguera, joined community leaders, artists, supporters, and members of the Filipino community at the official unveiling and ribbon-cutting ceremony of the “Rizal Center Heritage Mural” at the Rizal Center in Chicago. U.S. Representative Mike Quigley of Illinois' 5th Congressional District and Filipino-American Alderwoman Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth of Chicago's 48th Ward also attended the event.

Delivering the Consul General's message, Consul Almonguera congratulated the Rizal Center, headed by Chairman Jerry Clarito; Sinag: Filipino American Artists of Greater Chicago, led by Larry Leopoldo; and lead artist Michael Del Valle for bringing the project to fruition. He likewise highlighted the stories and contributions of Filipinos to the city and across the U.S., and the many ways they have enriched the social, cultural, and economic fabric of their communities.

The mural portrays significant aspects of the Filipino American experience, including stories of migration, community leadership, and the service of Filipino World War II veterans. Its unveiling is particularly meaningful as the PHL and the U.S. commemorate the 80th Anniversary of diplomatic relations and as Filipinos celebrate the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of PHL Independence. END