Being Filipino to me means carrying a deep sense of bayanihan—the spirit of community, resilience, and care for one another—wherever I go. It’s about honoring the sacrifices of those who came before us while celebrating the richness of our culture, traditions, and values.

As a proud member of the Agta Tabangnon Tribe of Pilar, Sorsogon on my father’s side, I carry with me the stories of my ancestors who lived close to the land, and the wisdom that community is our greatest strength. I think of my Lola, Dr. Expedita Lumbao Castro, the first female doctor from our region of Sorsogon. Even after she and my Lolo, Atty. Jesse Castro, “made it” in America, they chose to return to the Philippines to serve their community. Their lives remind me that no matter how far we go, we must never forget where we come from.

In a multicultural country like America, being Filipino means being a bridge-builder. We bring our stories, food, music, and language into the larger tapestry of American life, adding flavor and perspective while learning from others. It’s not about losing our roots, but strengthening them as we contribute to a diverse and evolving society.

Most importantly, being Filipino in America reminds me that identity is both heritage and choice: choosing to remember, choosing to celebrate, and choosing to uplift others as we walk together in this multicultural journey. For me, it also carries a responsibility—to honor my ancestors’ sacrifices and live out the values of bayanihan through service. That sense of responsibility is why I have chosen to run for office: to make sure our voices are heard, to create spaces of belonging, and to ensure the next generation can take pride in who they are while shaping a more inclusive future.