NaFFAA Opens 16th National Empowerment Conference in Aurora

AURORA, Colorado — The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) opened its 16th National Empowerment Conference on Friday at the Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center, launching two days of programming focused on leadership, civic engagement, and community-building.

The gathering brought Filipino American leaders, professionals, and advocates from across the country for sessions built around the theme “Harnessing the Power of Community: Starting With Us.” This year’s program aims to strengthen self-reliance, expand institutional influence, and deepen collaboration across the Filipino American community.

A keynote address by Secretary Dante Ang II of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) anchored the morning program. Ang highlighted the agency’s mandate to engage and support Filipinos abroad and emphasized the importance of sustained partnerships between diaspora communities and Philippine institutions. CFO works with Non‑Resident Filipinos (NRFs)—members of the global Filipino diaspora who live permanently or long-term outside the Philippines. This population includes immigrants, permanent residents, dual citizens, and overseas professionals whose ties to the Philippines remain culturally, economically, and civically significant. CFO’s role spans diaspora engagement, migration education, policy coordination, and programs that strengthen NRF participation in national development.

The opening day also featured multiple breakout sessions on leadership, civic participation, community organizing, and cultural advancement. A panel discussion with NaFFAA founding officers traced the organization’s early advocacy efforts and its evolution into a national network representing Filipino Americans across sectors.

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