Judging from the list of five Filipino Americans who made a difference in 2013, it’s been a good year for the community.
The Asian Journal reports that Balitang America has nominated five people for the honor of being voted by its viewers as the Filipino American who has made the biggest impact this year.
The five include California Assemblyman Rob Bonta (D-Oakland), the first Filipino America elected to the California legislature and who passed a bill mandating that the contribution of Filipino American farm workers be taught in California schools.
Filipina nurse Menchu Sanchez received recognition for being singled out by President Obama during his State of the Union address in January for her personal sacrifice and heroism during Hurricane Sandy. She evacuated 20 high risk babies from the hospital by carrying them out several flights of stairs.
Jose Antonio Vargas received a nomination for speaking out on behalf of immigration reform and coming out as an undocumented immigrant despite risk to himself.
Finally Balitang America recognized Erik Spoelstra(pictured), the first Filipino American and Asian American to coach a professional sports team in a major sport. He lead the Miami Heat to its second straight NBA championship during the 2012-2013 season.
You can read more about these nominees in the Asian Journal.
