In a momentous win for the Filipino American community, the Clark County Commission has officially approved the creation of Filipino Town, a designated cultural district in Las Vegas, Nevada. The resolution, passed unanimously with a 7-0 vote on April 15, 2025, marks a significant milestone in recognizing the enduring contributions of Filipinos to the city and the state of Nevada.

The proposal, introduced last year by Filipino community leaders with support from various local organizations, was brought to life through the efforts of Filipino Town Las Vegas Incorporated. Its founder, Dr. Rozita Lee, read the resolution aloud during the commission meeting, sparking a wave of emotion and celebration from those in attendance.

“Thank you, because everyone is so joyful—so joyful for this day—as we read the resolution and acknowledge all those who have remained faithful and shown their support,” Dr. Lee said. “Filipinos have made a complete and wonderful contribution to this state.”

Located along a 1.2-mile stretch of Maryland Parkway—from Flamingo Road to Desert Inn Road—the newly established Filipino Town sits in an area already home to several Filipino restaurants, supermarkets, and small businesses. The district is expected to serve as a vibrant cultural and economic hub for the community, promoting Filipino traditions, food, music, and art.

Dr. Rozita V. Lee, FTLV Founder, with VP Bernie A. Benito, joined by Board Members and community leaders including Sam Buban, Carl Magno, Atty. Bing Longakit, Corin Ramos, Engr. Ernie Buo, Jocelyn Borromeo, Dr. Philip Paleracio, Connie Benito, and Ron Sumbang.

The state of Nevada is home to over 200,000 Filipinos, many of whom work in healthcare, education, and service industries. According to Joel Enriquez, president of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Nevada, Filipinos are the largest and fastest-growing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) group in the state.

“Filipino migration surged in the 1990s when the state began recruiting healthcare workers,” Enriquez said. “In 2017, the Clark County School District started hiring Filipino teachers through the J-1 Cultural Exchange Program to fill shortages in special education, math, science, and elementary education.”

Beyond its physical presence, Filipino Town symbolizes visibility, unity, and pride. For many in the community, it represents an opportunity to preserve and promote their heritage for future generations. Events such as cultural festivals, parades, and educational programs are already being envisioned for the district.

Joan Fields, a longtime Filipino community leader in Las Vegas, spoke passionately during the public comment session.

“This is not only significant for Las Vegas but for the entire United States,” Fields said. “It’s an opportunity to share our history and contributions to American society. Filipino Town is not just a place where small businesses thrive or where we gather to eat—it’s a place to connect, celebrate, and teach others about our rich cultural identity.”

With the establishment of Filipino Town, Las Vegas joins a growing number of U.S. cities honoring the legacy and influence of Filipino Americans. This historic step ensures that the stories, struggles, and successes of the Filipino community are acknowledged—and celebrated—for generations to come.