Founded in 2008, Chikka Magazine highlights various aspects of Filipino culture and life in Arizona. Topics covered include family, fashion, and special events that target the local Filipino population.
One of our primary goals is to showcase the people and events that contribute to the unique character of the Filipino community. Chikka also places a strong emphasis on outreach to Filipino organizations, health professionals, and businesses in the western United States and also abroad in the Philippines. As such, we are able to deliver a unique blend of news and information that is particularly relevant to Filipinos in Arizona.
What is the Meaning of Chikka?
Chikka [English definition] is defined as a form of interaction that is often referred to as chit-chat or small talk. This colloquial term is a commonly used word in the Philippines and in America. These discussions typically involve a wide variety of topics, so “chikka” is a very fitting description for this community publication. Read More
Filipino Organizations in Arizona
There are several groups, organizations, and associations in the East Valley and also in the West. One can actually find them throughout Arizona, however, most are concentrated around cities like Phoenix, Chandler, Glendale, and Tempe. This magazine provides details about these organizations and routinely publishes information about upcoming Filipino events and activities sponsored by these organizations.
Filipino Population | Are There a Lot of Filipinos in Arizona?
By most estimates, the number of Filipinos currently in Arizona is above 70,000. This is a relatively small number in comparison to California which has by far the most numbering in excess of 1.5 million. Despite this difference, Arizona is among the top states with a significant Filipino American population.
Interestingly, Filipinos in greater Phoenix and others in the western United States (e.g. California, Hawaii, Washington, Nevada, New Mexico, and Alaska) represent the largest population of Asians in their perspective location.
Where Do Most Filipinos Live in Arizona?
Filipino Americans are dispersed all over Arizona, however, the highest concentrations are in locations typically identified as part of the greater Phoenix area. Recent statistics point to a slightly higher number of Asian families in Chandler, Tempe, and Mesa. Although current trends indicate a shift with more members of the Filipino community choosing to live in a Central or West Valley location such as Avondale, Goodyear, Peoria, Glendale, or Phoenix.
Chikka Magazine Is a Resource
In the Valley, things tend to be spread out and not necessarily on a particular side of town. For example, there are several Filipino restaurants in Arizona along with various Asian grocery stores in the Phoenix area. Also since there is an ever-increasing pool of health professionals with ties to the Philippines present in the Valley finding a Filipino doctor who speaks Tagalog is not very difficult, but the location of these practices varies. Bottom line, this type of information can sometimes be difficult to find for Filipinos new to Phoenix, immigrants arriving from outside the country, and even for families who are long-time residents. Accordingly, Chikka Magazine seeks to fulfill this ongoing need by shining a light on the variety of resources available to the Filipino community in Arizona.