Filipino-American Steven Raga is running for a second term as state assemblyman in New York. 

The first Fil-Am to have won an elected post in New York in 2022 described his first term as highly successful.

Fil-Am community lauds Steven Raga's historic election win in NY

“We've had for the first time, investment in our community,” said Raga. “We've had a collaboration with other elected officials who want to support the FilAm community and we have a broad coalition of folks that want to invest, look at, and make sure our district is taken care of.”

The National Federation of Filipino-American Associations New York collaborated with Raga and other officials to ensure federal government investment for the Fil-Am community. 

The result was a $1.6 million grant to help build a Filipino community center in Queens. 

“This is just the first step,” said NAFFAA New York president Rachelle Ocampo. “It's just the beginning.”

The NAFFAA said the federal grant would not be possible without the involvement of elected officials in New York. 

“I think a lot of that really comes down to the fact that we have Steve,” said Michelle Amor, NAFFAA executive director. “He was the one who was able to help us create a relationship with congress members and in turn, our relations with President Biden.”

Earlier this month, Raga also introduced a bill that seeks more transparency at the local government level.

His proposal aims to streamline requests for Freedom of Information law.

These often take weeks, months or even years. But under the bill, the government would be mandated to acknowledge the requests promptly, and provide a realistic timeline for approval or denial.

The move is seen to facilitate easier access to public records not just for journalists but also for average New Yorkers. 

“[It] should be open to everybody and my bill makes sure you get a response in 30 days,” Raga said.

Members of the Fil-Am community also came to show their support for Raga.

“It’s a rising tide [that] lifts all boats,” said Charina Amunategui. “For us to support Steven, keep him in office, it lifts the profiles of all Filipinos, for the world to see our brand of hard work, of integrity, of tirelessly serving our community.”

The New York state assembly primary is happening on June 25, while the general election is set for November 5.