AFTA Keeps Filipino Heritage Alive Through Paaralan sa Konsulado

NEW YORK - The Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America (AFTA), recognized as the oldest Filipino American teachers’ organization in the United States, played a leading role in teaching Filipino language, history and culture to young Filipino Americans through the Paaralan sa Konsulado summer program.

Organized in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General in New York, the program offered educational and cultural activities designed to strengthen students’ connection to their Filipino heritage.

AFTA’s volunteer educators led lessons in conversational Filipino, Filipino children’s stories, folk and popular songs, traditional dances, arts and crafts, and the life and legacy of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.

Students between the ages of 4 and 16 were divided into groups, allowing teachers to provide age-appropriate lessons and activities.

One of the featured sessions, “Filipino Folksongs as Groundwork for Part-Singing,” was presented by Prof. Jude B. Roldan and Dr. Maria Theresa Vizconde-Roldan. Robert Baccaray, regional field director of Premier Financial Alliance, also led a plenary session titled “Financial Literacy for All.”

Students later participated in Larong Pinoy, or traditional Filipino games, which promoted teamwork, friendship and Filipino cultural values.

The summer program concluded with a culminating ceremony attended by Philippine Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, consulate officials and staff, students, parents, teachers and volunteers.

Organizers recognized AFTA’s volunteer teachers, support staff and student volunteers for making the classes engaging and memorable.

As the oldest Filipino American teachers’ organization in the country, AFTA continues to help preserve Philippine language, traditions and cultural identity while educating and inspiring younger generations of Filipino Americans.