Group photo at the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Chandler, Arizona. Honorary Consul Jenny Lynn Ho-Vijungco stands at the center holding her appointment certificate, joined by dignitaries and guests with Philippine and U.S. flags displayed behind them.

Philippine Honorary Consulate Opens in Chandler, Marking a New Chapter for Arizona–Philippines Relations

October 1, 2025October 2, 2025 Michael Lewis and Jennifer Del Mar Lewis Philippine Consular News

Chandler, AZ – September 21, 2025. A historic milestone was reached with the inauguration of the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Arizona, located at 1840 W. Chandler Blvd, Suite D3. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Consul General Adelio Angelito S. Cruz of Los Angeles and newly appointed Honorary Consul Jenny Lynn M. Ho-Vijungco, drawing civic leaders, community representatives, and Filipino Americans from across the state.

A Bridge Between Arizona and the Philippines

Honorary Consul Ho-Vijungco described the consulate as more than just an office—calling it “a bridge that connects the Philippines and Arizona, a bridge that connects our past with our future.” In her remarks, she emphasized service, compassion, and community, pledging to make the office a space where Filipinos in Arizona feel heard, supported, and valued.

Beginning October 1, 2025, the consulate will officially open its doors to the public, offering consular notarization, mortuary certificates, emergency travel documents, and assistance for distressed Filipinos. It will also promote trade, tourism, and investment between Arizona and the Philippines.

Listen to the full inaugural address here.

Arizona’s Global Commitment

Speaking on behalf of Governor Katie Hobbs, Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, highlighted the growing economic ties between the state and the Philippines. She noted that bilateral trade surpassed $423 million in 2024 and is expected to grow further. Watson stressed that the new consulate will not only serve Filipino nationals but also create new opportunities in business, education, and cultural exchange. “This opening reflects the deep and growing ties between Arizona and the Philippines,” she said.

Chandler’s Global Profile

Mayor Kevin Hartke, who has positioned Chandler as a “Community of Innovation,” welcomed the consulate as an important addition to the city’s international presence. He underscored Chandler’s diverse community and its role as a hub for technology and global partnerships. By hosting Arizona’s first Philippine Honorary Consulate, Hartke said, Chandler further strengthens its reputation as a city connected to both innovation and cultural diversity.

Community and Performances

The celebration carried the spirit of unity and cultural pride. Consul General Adelio Angelito S. Cruz and Honorary Consul Jenny Lynn M. Ho-Vijungco were at the center of the day’s program, their presence symbolizing the formal recognition of Arizona’s Filipino community at the diplomatic level.

Among the distinguished guests was Las Vegas Honorary Consul Bella Aurora Belmonte, whose attendance highlighted the broader regional ties and support for this milestone event. Also present was Fleur Magbanua Mansur, Chairwoman of the Council of Filipino Organizations of Arizona (CFO-AZ), representing the state’s umbrella group of Filipino community organizations. Her participation emphasized the strong role of local leadership in ensuring the consulate’s success.

The program that followed reflected heritage and community pride. Singers Marian Pierce and Kata performed before the Arizona State University Philippine American Student Association showcased a traditional folk dance with bamboo poles. The Filipino Performing Artists of Arizona (FPAAZ) also took the stage with their rendition of Sayaw sa Bangko, earning admiration for their grace and balance.

Community Voices

For many, the opening of the consulate meant more than ceremony—it was the answer to years of long drives to Los Angeles for basic services. One attendee expressed relief, saying it will be “so helpful not to drive all the way to California just to process paperwork.” Others described the consulate as “a blessing for our Filipino community,” “a much-needed service,” and “a great asset to Arizona.”

The presence of Consul General Cruz, Honorary Consul Ho-Vijungco, and distinguished guests such as Honorary Consul Belmonte, alongside community leaders like CFO-AZ Chairwoman Fleur Magbanua Mansur, reinforced the sense that this was not only a community achievement but also a moment of recognition for Arizona’s growing role in the broader Filipino diaspora. Beyond the practical benefits, several community members reflected that the celebration itself “felt like home” and gave hope that future generations will remain connected to their roots.

Looking Ahead

With an estimated 75,000 Filipinos and Filipino Americans living in Arizona, the opening of the consulate provides easier access to essential services and strengthens the state’s role as a gateway for international collaboration. Leaders and community members alike agreed that this was more than a ribbon-cutting—it was the beginning of a deeper connection between Arizona and the Philippines.