Bacoleño Judie Alvaran, a hardworking young Filipino leader, spearheaded some cultural affairs undertakings that brought various provinces and city festivals in the Philippines to Tokyo, Japan.
His leadership began to gain ground with the staging of the Philippine Festival in 2014, the largest celebration of Filipinos in Japan, with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Tokyo and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
Alvaran is a triple major degree holder in Business, Marketing, and Entrepreneurial Studies at the University of St. La Salle, Bacolod.
He pursued his studies in Asian Cooperation Studies at Kyushu International University.
Currently, Alvaran heads the Philippine Assistance Group (PAG), with the support of the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo, Japan.
They recently organized the 124th Philippine Independence Day: "La Independencia de Los Illustrados," on June 19 at Hilton, Tokyo.
After two years of cancellations due to the coronavirus disease pandemic, this year's event proved to be grander and more vibrant, showcasing the traditional Philippine outfits – the Filipiniana and the Barong.
It was well-attended by business leaders and companies, international community guests, Japan, and the Philippine Diplomatic Corps.
The event was also a tribute to His Excellency Ambassador Jose C. Laurel V, who is the Philippine Ambassador to Japan for his six years of dedication and service to the Filipino Community in Japan.
PAG rendered a video presentation to His Excellency, highlighting the countless ways he dedicated his time to the community and his excellent service to the Philippines and Japan.
After his remarkable speech, Ambassador Laurel handed Alvaran an award of recognition for PAG's leadership and collaboration with the Philippine Embassy for the past years.
The Philippine Assistance Group's Vision is to empower migrant Filipinos in Japan, supporting marginalized Filipinos in need of legal, medical, and financial assistance.
This powerhouse organization recognizes, responds to, and focuses on the concerns and needs of distressed Filipino nationals.
Over the years, PAG has continually responded to the emerging needs of distressed Filipino citizens, raised funds, developed innovative programs, and established strong commitments among the member organizations.
Ms. Joyce Ogawa, who heads the PAG Philippine Festival 2022: Meri Matsuri, introduced this year's officers. The Philippine festival will take place on December 3rd and 4th at Yoyogi Park, Shibuya.*