Skokie, IL – August 16, 2025 — The Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI) reached a historic milestone as members of the association, together with its Executive Committee, gathered for the ZAMNAI General Assembly to formally adopt the amended Constitution and By-Laws of the organization.

In a decisive vote, 29 active members voted in favor, with 2 abstentions, officially ratifying the updated charter that will guide the association into the future.

The amendments focus on several key areas critical to strengthening ZAMNAI’s governance and operations:

• Organization of the Board of Trustees to provide more effective oversight and long-term direction.

• Membership policies designed to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and sustainability.

• Creation of additional constitutional committees to better manage programs and initiatives.

• Defined roles and responsibilities of the Executive Committee (ExeCom) to improve accountability and efficiency.

• Clear guidance and authority of the President in designating necessary officials to support the organization’s functions.

According to the assembly, the amended Constitution and By-Laws shall take immediate effect upon approval, marking the beginning of a new chapter in ZAMNAI’s organizational growth.

“This adoption is not just about updating documents—it’s about preparing ZAMNAI for the future,” said Mr. Joshua Amado Bicoy, the President of the ZAMNAI Organization. “With these changes, we are ensuring that our organization continues to thrive, serve, and inspire our community.”

The adoption of the amended Constitution and By-Laws reflects ZAMNAI’s commitment to adapt to the changing needs of its members while staying true to its mission of unity, service, and cultural pride.

Chicago, IL – The Chicago White Sox, in partnership with Major League Baseball (MLB), has extended a special opportunity to the Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI) by providing free tickets to various upcoming events.

The tickets will be distributed among all ZAMNAI members, regardless of membership status or contribution history, as part of an initiative to strengthen community engagement and provide members with unique recreational opportunities.

“We are excited to partner with the White Sox and MLB,” said Mr. Joshua Bicoy, President of ZAMNAI. “This is more than just about watching baseball—it’s an opportunity for our members to broaden their sports interests, enjoy family time, and celebrate our community spirit together.”

The collaboration highlights ZAMNAI’s commitment to offering its members not only cultural and social activities but also access to broader community experiences, including America’s favorite pastime.

Details on ticket distribution and event schedules will be shared with members in the coming weeks.

Skokie, IL – The Committee on Constitution and By-Laws of the Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI) has officially begun its review process in preparation for the amendment of the organization’s governing documents. The initiative, spearheaded by Committee Chairperson Rem Sienes, marks an important step toward ensuring that ZAMNAI’s Constitution and By-Laws remain relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the community.

“The Constitution and By-Laws serve as the backbone of our organization,” Chairperson Sienes noted. “This review is an opportunity to strengthen ZAMNAI’s foundation and align it with the present call of the times.”

To carry out this mandate, the committee confirmed the appointment of its members: Berisimo Refugio, Donaldo Pactol, Soledad Anderson, Suzette Ancheta, Maria Cyd Adriatico-Fernandez, Demetrio Bustalino, Jade Schneider, and Anna Winkowski.

The review will cover key provisions affecting governance, membership, fiscal management, and organizational continuity. The committee aims to present its proposed amendments for consideration and ratification by August 2026.

ZAMNAI leadership expressed full support for the committee’s work, recognizing the importance of a strong and updated governing charter in guiding the association’s future.

This initiative underscores ZAMNAI’s commitment to accountability, inclusivity, and sustainability as it continues to grow and serve the Filipino-American community in Illinois.

Skokie, IL – February 15, 2025 — Community leaders and members of various Filipino organizations gathered at the Skokie Library for a Consultative Conference aimed at preparing for the much-anticipated Hudyaka sa Chicago 2025.

The conference provided a platform for leaders to review the plans and activities of this year’s Hudyaka, a flagship celebration of culture, music, dance, and unity hosted by the Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI). In addition to festival preparations, discussions also touched on pressing concerns of the Filipino community, particularly the ongoing shifts in U.S. immigration policies and their potential impact on Filipino immigrants and families.

Community leaders in attendance voiced their commitment and support for the success of Hudyaka sa Chicago 2025, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and cultural pride in navigating both challenges and opportunities.

“Hudyaka has always been a celebration of our roots and a testament to the strength of our community,” one leader remarked during the consultation. “With the collective support of Filipino organizations across Illinois, we are confident this year’s celebration will once again be a success.”

The conference concluded with a renewed sense of partnership among Filipino organizations, highlighting the role of Hudyaka not only as a cultural event but also as a unifying force for Filipinos across the Midwest

Skokie, IL – February 15, 2025 — The Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI) Helping Hands Committee convened on February 1, 2025 at the Skokie Library to review and update the policies of the Helping Hands Program, a flagship initiative of the association dedicated to assisting members during illness or death. The revised policy, which increases benefits and clarifies program guidelines, was officially adopted and approved during the ZAMNAI Executive Committee’s monthly meeting on February 15, 2025.

The Helping Hands Program is a unique support mechanism of ZAMNAI designed to ease financial burdens during difficult times. It provides hospitalization assistance and death-related benefits to members, reflecting the spirit of “bayanihan” within the ZAMNAI community.

Key Program Features

• Eligibility: Members must be in good standing for at least two months and must have contributed to the Helping Hands fund.

• Contributions: $22 annually for individual membership and $44 for family membership, collected between January and March 31 each year. Starting in 2027, contributions will increase by $5 (individual) and $10 (family) to ensure sustainability.

• Hospitalization Assistance Packages:

  • Package A – $350: For hospital stays of at least three consecutive days.

  • Package B – $200: For specific same-day major surgeries or procedures.

  • Package C – $200: For incapacity to work for a minimum of four weeks due to critical illness (limited to COPD and cancer).

• Death Assistance: $350 to the member’s designated beneficiary, regardless of residency location.

To simplify processing, members can only avail one assistance package per year, with the higher value applied if multiple conditions are met.

Support Beyond Illinois

One of the notable highlights of the updated policy affirms that ZAMNAI members who have relocated outside Illinois or returned to the Philippines remain eligible for assistance, provided they maintain lifetime membership and fulfill contribution requirements.

Claims and Processing

Members seeking assistance must submit the required medical documentation, such as a doctor’s certificate or hospital discharge summary. Approved claims are processed by the Helping Hands Committee, with assistance released via check.

Strengthening the Program’s Future

The program’s limited coverage reflects current resource constraints. However, the committee expressed optimism that through steady contributions, membership growth, and community support, the Helping Hands Program can expand its coverage in the coming years.

“Helping Hands is more than just financial assistance—it’s about solidarity, compassion, and community care,” the ZAMNAI Executive Committee noted. “Every contribution strengthens our capacity to be there for one another in times of need.”

The updated Helping Hands policy marks another milestone in ZAMNAI’s continuing mission to uplift and support its members, ensuring that no one stands alone during life’s most difficult moments.

Skokie, IL – January 11, 2025 — The Zamboanga del Norte Association of Illinois (ZAMNAI) Executive Committee convened for its Strategic Planning Workshop at the Skokie Library, Skokie, Illinois, bringing together key leaders and past presidents to map out the future of the organization and its growing community.

The workshop highlighted the importance of aligning ZAMNAI’s vision with programs and activities that strengthen community engagement, financial sustainability, and organizational growth. The event served as both a planning and a unifying platform, bridging the wisdom of past leadership with the dynamic vision of the current administration.

At the center of the discussions was the guiding principle of the current administration under the leadership of Mr. Joshua Amado Bicoy, anchored on the mantra S.I.M.P.L.E.:

• S – Secure, sound, and transparent fiscal management

• I – Involve and engage members in various projects and initiatives

• M – Membership increase by at least 30% by the end of 2026, while ensuring effective services and assistance for members

• P – Promote the ZAMNAI brand by boosting visibility and utilizing social platforms and technology for efficiency

• L – Leverage ZAMNAI’s status as a 501(c)(3) organization to expand annual revenue and financial resources

• E – Establish ZAMNAI’s foundation by cultivating a new generation of members and leaders, ensuring continuity of its mission, and working toward a dedicated office to provide greater access to services

The session charted a calendar of activities and programs designed to solidify ZAMNAI’s role not only as a Filipino-American community hub in Illinois but also as an organization committed to fostering unity, service, and cultural pride.

“Today, we are not only planning for the present, but we are setting the course for ZAMNAI’s future,” Bicoy shared. “With the collaboration of our members, leaders, and community partners, we aim to build a stronger, more sustainable organization that continues to serve with purpose.”

The workshop was attended by the circle of past presidents and other major stakeholders, underscoring the value of continuity and collective wisdom in shaping ZAMNAI’s trajectory. Their active participation reflected the enduring commitment of ZAMNAI’s leadership—past and present—to uplift and strengthen the Filipino-American community in Illinois.

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).