Asian Pacific Alliance of County Employees - APACE

21/05/2026

This afternoon's AANHPI Heritage and Military Appreciation celebration was filled with meaningful moments, cultural pride, and community spirit!

The program began with the Presentation of the Colors by San Diego County Sheriff's Honor Guard and National Anthem performed by Jade Yoshio Kauilano Tanouye. This was followed by the ceremonial blowing of the conch shell, creating a powerful and memorable opening to the celebration led by Kaino Leilua. Guests then heard opening remarks from PISCE President, Isoble Kinsang, and a special proclamation presentation from the office of Board of Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer.

Guests were inspired by an amazing guest speaker, Jonathan "Tana" Lepule, who shared heartfelt and uplifting messages to the audience. The program continues with a beautiful hula dance performance by Miss Hui Hawaii San Diego Mahealani Hammond, followed by an inspirational speech from VALOR Executive Sponsor, and DPC Direcor Allen Hunsberger with special Veteran recognitions. A moment of silence led by VALOR President Rea Alvarez was observed in honor and remembrance of the brave service members who served our country and no longer with us.

A wonderful ukulele and guitar performances led by Darwin Espejo and Aldo Mendoza brought joy and culture to the event. APACE VP Rizza Montalbo-Marilag also proudly recognized two outstanding awardees,Darwin Espejo and Jorell Tuncap, for their dedication to teaching ukulele and Chamorro dance, helping preserve and pass on these important cultural traditions to keep the spirit of culture, Heritage and community alive.

Two event logo design contest winners were also recognized, celebrated lucky raffle prize winners, and ended the event on a high note with a fun and energetic cultural line dance led by PISCE Secretary Jorell Tuncap, followed by closing remarks by APACE Board of Director, Leata Toilolo.

A special THANK YOU to our amazing emcees Jorell Tuncao and Darwin Espejo for bringing such incredible energy, enthusiasm and positivity to this celebration!

21/05/2026

19/05/2026

Today, May 19, 2026, the AANHPI community was proudly recognized by the County of San Diego Board of Supervisors with a proclamation honoring the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the County Administration Center.

This meaningful recognition celebrates the rich cultures, histories, resilience, and countless contributions of the AANHPI community throughout San Diego County and beyond.

Among the recipients of the proclamation are the County Employee Resource Groups (APACE, PISCE and CSDFEA) who are honored to be recognized for their continued commitment to uplifting diversity, inclusion, cultural awareness, and community connection throughout the County. VP Rizza Montalbo-Marilag, newly elected Board of Director (BOD) Alex Wong, and BOD Leata Toilolo accepted the proclamation on behalf of APACE.

16/05/2026

We're excited for the May 20 AANHPI Heritage and Military Appreciation celebration at the COC! We hope to see you there!
 
As part of our AANHPI Heritage Month celebration, APACE, PISCE, and VALOR Employee Resource Groups have come together in partnership to support individuals and families affected by Super Typhoon Sinlaku across several islands in Chuuk State, Federated States of Micronesia.
 
We are hosting a dollar drive where any amount is greatly appreciated and more than welcome. All monetary donations collected will be converted into in-kind donations to help provide essential items and support for affected individuals and families during recovery efforts.
 
Donations can be sent through Venmo at -COSD through the end of May.
 
If interested in purchasing the commemorative T-shirt, the price would vary based on the size. To order and obtain details, please reach out to [email protected]. A portion of every t-shirt sold will go towards this effort.
 
Thank you for your generosity, compassion and for helping us honor the spirit of community, service, and unity during AANHPI Heritage Month.

15/05/2026

APACE leaders (Kathy Jung, Debra Davis and Cipto Widjaja) were honored to attend and host a community table at the Rancho Santa Fe Library during the screening of the powerful documentary "To Climb a Gold Mountain" on May 14.

The film shares the inspiring and emotional journey of Chinese immigrants who came to America seeking opportunity, sacrifice, and a better future for their families. Through stories of resilience, hardship, and perseverance, the documentary highlights the contributions and experiences that helped shape generations and communities across the nation.

We are grateful for the the opportunity to engage with community members, share resources, and support meaningful conversations that honor culture, history, and representation.

29/04/2026

Join us at the County Operations Center to celebrate the AANHPI Heritage and Military Appreciation Month on May 20, Wednesday from 12pm to 1pm! We'll have cultural performances, reaource booths, recognition, etc. See you there!

29/04/2026

APACE VP & Treasurer, Rizza and Cipto, presented today at the Department and Purchasing and Contracting All Hands meeting and talked about Engagement & Visibility at the Workplace and How Employee Resource Groups play a meaningful role in both.

16/04/2026

Chamorro Paluma (Bird) Dance

Inspired by the paluma (bird), this dance reflects grace, freedom and connection to nature. Movements mimic wings in flight through soft arm waves, gentle side steps, and smooth turns.

Move with the rhythm, tell a story, and dance with spirit.

16/04/2026

In today's Chamorro dance class, we discovered the beauty of the "Paluma" or bird dance.

dance is a vibrant expression of culture, storytelling, & connection to nature. One of the most beloved styles is inspired by birds - graceful, free, and full of life. These dances often reflect the movements, spirit, and rhythm of island birds, symbolizing harmony with the environment.

What is the Paluma Dance about?
The dance tells a story through soft, flowing movements that mimic birds in flight - gliding, landing, and interacting with one another. It represents freedom, beauty, and the deep respect Chamorro dance culture holds for nature.

In these clips, Jorell shows different basic steps to try such as side-to-side step, arm flow (wing motion), graceful sways, as well as timing and rhythm.

Tip: Chamorro dance isn't about perfection - it's about feeling the music, telling a story, and moving with intention and grace.

Thanks again, Jorell, for today's fun class. And we also welcome, Zayne, for joining us in learning and celebrating this beautiful cultural tradition!