JCI Philippine New York 2026 Officers and Board Directors | Photo via JCI PNY
QUEENS, NY [Update]— A week after a historic snowstorm buried New York City under nearly 30 inches of snow, the skies opened to an unexpected gift: sunlight, warmth, and the unmistakable promise of spring. It was as if the season itself had chosen to shift in time for the 63rd Installation of Officers and Board Directors of JCI Philippine-New York, held on February 28, 2026, at the iconic Terrace on the Park.
From noon to late afternoon, the Crystal Suite —bathed in natural light and framed by sweeping views of Queens—became the stage for a celebration of legacy, leadership, and the Filipino spirit of renewal.
A Festive Entrance, A Symbolic Beginning
The event opened with a burst of color and energy. In honor of Lunar Week, all incoming officers and directors arrived in coordinated red attire, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Their entrance was anything but traditional: the entire slate performed a choreographed, upbeat dance number, drawing cheers and applause from the audience. It was a joyful, unexpected moment—one that set the tone for a ceremony that honored tradition while embracing change.
The project was chaired with precision and grace by Patricia Po, whose leadership ensured that the afternoon unfolded seamlessly.
Dely Go and Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio | Photo via JCI PNY
A Gathering of Leaders
The Induction drew an impressive roster of dignitaries and community leaders, including Consul General Senen Mangalile, New York Assemblymember Steven Raga, and Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio—each a testament to the Chapter’s deep roots in civic life and its growing influence across the Filipino American community.
Their presence underscored the significance of the moment: JCI Philippine-New York is not merely an organization; it is a historic institution woven into the fabric of Filipino leadership in the Northeast.
Honoring a Year of Vision and Impact
Outgoing President Edynne Baclay-Loquellano delivered a heartfelt valedictory address, reflecting on a year defined by bold leadership and collective purpose.
“When we declared, ‘Lead with Vision, Empowering Change,’ it was more than a theme—it was our compass,” she said. “And throughout this year, you embodied it. You led boldly. You served selflessly. You empowered one another. Together, we transformed ideas into action, challenges into opportunities, and dreams into measurable impact across our community and beyond.”
Her words resonated deeply with members who witnessed firsthand how her administration expanded partnerships, strengthened youth engagement, and elevated the Chapter’s visibility.
A Legacy Rooted in History
Consul General Senen Mangalile, a longtime supporter and honorary member of the Chapter, offered a stirring reminder of JCI Philippine-New York’s origins.
“Speaking of history, I always keep in mind that in 1963, this chapter made history as the first ethnic-based Jaycee chapter in the world,” he said. “But more importantly, that history was made within the Philippine Consulate General in New York. As your current Consul General and Honorary Member, I am proud to continue and further strengthen this peculiar partnership between the Consulate and the Chapter.”
He emphasized the shared mission that binds the two institutions:
“Our complementarity in vision and purpose creates a synergy that goes a long way in serving the Filipino diaspora in this part of the United States. We may be doing different things for the community, but we are united in a venture to serve the community, celebrate its achievements, and prepare the next generation of leaders.”
A New President, A New Chapter
The highlight of the afternoon was the installation of Jesse Marcus Rivera as the 63rd President of JCI Philippine-New York. His oath of office was administered by National Vice President JP Ong, marking the formal beginning of a new era.
Rivera’s acceptance speech was both reflective and forward-looking, grounded in the Chapter’s storied past.
“In 1963, right here in New York, bold Filipino leaders headed by Mr. Ernesto Pilares founded what would become the first ethnic-based JCI chapter in the world—JCI Philippine-New York,” he said. “In a time when representation was rare, when community meant survival, when identity required courage, they built something extraordinary. They built a platform for Filipino leadership on a global stage.”
Then, with a sense of destiny, he added: “And tonight, 63 years later, I stand before you deeply honored to serve as the 63rd President of this historic organization. Sixty-three—from 1963 to the 63rd presidency. That is not a coincidence. That is legacy.”
Serving with Rivera are Patricia Honda Po, Executive Vice President; King Arbee Guiveses, Individual Development Vice President; Alexandera “Pao” Mangalile, Community Development Vice President; Josuard Gonzales, International Affairs Vice President; and Rafael Sy, Membership Services Vice President; Anthony Galsim, Secretary; Isabelle Pozon Salaya, Treasurer; and Christine Erica Valdez, Auditor.
The Board of Directors includes Zyrille Angelika Guiveses, Christian Vhon San Miguel, and Denny Cheng. Rivera tapped JCI Senators Richard Aguinaldo, Carlos Cabrera, and US-JCI Ambassadors Andrew Luis, Jubert Paul Ong, and NYS Gov. Chuck Kayvin Mayan-gao as his Presidential Advisers.
His Board Advisers are JCI Senators Jocelyn Bernal, Vivian Velasco, Stevenson Van Derodar, Mary Reggie Torrejon, Margaret Quimosing, Krizteen Dulay Concepcion, Gary Abasolo, and NYS Gov. Christina Corcuera. Legal Advisers are JCI Senator Gary Abasolo and Edice Allanigue, JD, LLM.
A Celebration of Continuity and Change
As the afternoon sun cast a warm glow across the ballroom, the symbolism was impossible to miss. After days of snow and stillness, the city thawed—mirroring the Chapter’s own transition into a new season of leadership.
The 63rd Induction was more than a ceremony. It was a reminder of the resilience of a community that has weathered storms, literal and figurative, and continues to rise with purpose.
With its new president, energized board, and a legacy stretching back more than six decades, JCI Philippine-New York steps into 2026 with renewed vision, strengthened partnerships, and a commitment to shaping leaders who will serve, uplift, and inspire.
–-With Ricky Rillera
