Sentro Rizal New York marks four years as a living house of Philippine culture

NEW YORK - Four years after its inauguration, Sentro Rizal New York stands as a lasting testament to the enduring spirit of Philippine culture, history, and identity in the United States. Established on 06 January 2022 as the 36th Sentro Rizal in the world, the center has emerged as a vital cultural landmark in Manhattan, dedicated to preserving and promoting the arts, language, and heritage of the Filipino people.

Under the stewardship of the Philippine Consulate General in New York, Sentro Rizal New York was envisioned not merely as a repository of artifacts and books, but as a “house of culture” a dynamic space where history, scholarship, and community engagement converge for the Filipino diaspora in the U.S. Northeast.

To mark its fourth anniversary, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, together with Sentro Rizal New York Manager Anna Guerra and Assistant Nikka Arenal, welcomed distinguished guests whose presence symbolized both historical continuity and modern civic participation: Lisa Bayot, a direct descendant of Jose Rizal, and Filipino community volunteer Sandra Medel.

A significant highlight of the commemoration was the recognition of Ms. Medel’s pioneering work in creating the digital online catalog for the book collections of Sentro Rizal and the Consulate. Through this initiative, thousands of Filipiniana materials spanning rare historical works, literary classics, and contemporary publications have been made accessible to a global audience. The effort represents a crucial step in safeguarding the Philippines’ intellectual heritage for future generations, particularly for Filipino Americans growing up in an increasingly digital world.

The anniversary gathering also underscored the living legacy of the Rizal family. Ms. Bayot, a great-granddaughter of Saturnina Rizal, the national hero’s eldest sister, continues the family’s tradition of education and civic service. As co-founder of the MyRizal initiative and founder of the BINHI English Literacy Foundation, she has championed literacy and educational empowerment among students. During the meeting, discussions explored future collaborations that would integrate her advocacy with Sentro Rizal’s cultural mission.

Reflecting on the milestone, Consul General Mangalile emphasized the center’s evolving role in the diaspora. “By merging the historical legacy of the Rizal family with modern digital initiatives and the dedication of our community volunteers, we ensure that Sentro Rizal remains a living, breathing center of culture,” he said. “Our heritage continues to guide Filipinos in New York and beyond.”

Four years on, Sentro Rizal New York has proven that history is not confined to the past. Through preservation, education, and community partnership, it continues to affirm the enduring relevance of Philippine culture—rooted in history, alive in the present, and carried forward into the future.