Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI) Elects New Executive Committee for 2025-2026

Chicago, IL – September 21, 2024 – The Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI) proudly concluded its General Membership Assembly and Elections on September 21, 2024, with an impressive turnout of 369 voters from its 700-member strong community. The event showcased the commitment and solidarity of the Filipinos and Filipino-American community in the Midwest, particularly those hailing from Zamboanga del Norte.

The assembly, held at the Golf Maine Park Center, served as a platform for members to discuss key initiatives and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of their region. The elections culminated in the appointment of a new Executive Committee, who will serve from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026.

The newly elected Executive Committee members are as follows:

President: Joshua Amado Bicoy

Vice Presidents:

- Internal: Salvic Ramirez-Saavedra

- External: Wynne Lynn “Paola” Fadrowski

Secretary: Jean Gumalal-Sienes

Assistant Secretary: Patrick Fernandez

Treasurer: Christie D. Amora

Assistant Treasurer: Felix Bastasa, Jr.

Auditor: Erlinda Refugio

Bookkeeper: Maribel Mascardo

Business & Social Officer: Felinore Sienes-Naquila

Public Relations Officer: Anna Rhekha Winkowski

Property Custodian: Evelyn Pellerin

Marshalls:

Reynante Bulagao

Gilbert Elumba

Taipen Huang

Alexander Von Ramos

“We are thrilled with the engagement and enthusiasm shown by our members during this assembly,” said Joshua Amado Bicoy, the newly elected president. “Our focus for the upcoming term will be to strengthen our community bonds and continue our mission of support for all Filipino - Americans, especially those from Zamboanga del Norte.”

ZAMNAI has long been a pillar of support for the Filipinos and Filipino-American community in the Midwest, providing resources, networking opportunities, and cultural events that foster unity and pride among its members.

As the new committee prepares to take office, they are committed to advancing the goals and initiatives of ZAMNAI, ensuring that the voices of the Zamboanga del Norte community are heard and represented.

Chicago, IL – The Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI) is excited to announce the highly anticipated Hudyaka sa Chicago, set to take place on August 9, 2025, at the beautiful Labagh Woods, Forest Preserve, Chicago. This vibrant event promises to be a day filled with fun, competition, and cultural celebration, bringing together the community to honor our heritage and support a worthy cause.

Hudyaka sa Chicago will feature a variety of exciting tournaments, including Basketball, Volleyball, Chess, Billiards, and Tennis, among others. New events are also in the works, designed to engage participants of all ages and skill levels. Additional details on the full schedule of events will be released early next year, so stay tuned!

In addition to the tournaments, the event will showcase the 2025 Miss Hudyaka sa Chicago, a highlight of the festivities aimed at raising funds for the ZAMNAI organization. This pageant will celebrate the talents and beauty of our community members while supporting initiatives that benefit the Zamboanga del Norte community in Illinois.

“We are thrilled to bring Hudyaka sa Chicago back in 2025”, said Joshua Amado Bicoy, President-Elect of ZAMNAI Organization for ZY 2025-26.” This event not only promotes our rich culture but also fosters unity and camaraderie among our members. We invite everyone to join us for a day of fun, friendship, and celebration!”

Mark your calendars for August 9, 2025, and join us at Labagh Woods for an unforgettable day.

For more information and updates on Hudyaka sa Chicago, please visit our website zamnai.org or follow us on social media on Facebook at ZAMNAI Since 1989 (Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois).