U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has paid tribute to Filipinos for their contributions to America.

The senator from New York spoke on June 2 as he joined the Philippine Independence Day parade in the Big Apple.

In his remarks, Schumer said the Filipino people "represent the best of America."

"[They are] hardworking, have a loving family, [and are] caring about education," he said. "[They are] respectful of their neighbors."

Schumer added: "They ensure the streets are safe, making sure their kids have a better opportunity than they did. The Filipino community embodies the American dream."

Fresh from the Asian American Heritage and Pacific Islander Month celebration in the U.S., Schumer vowed to continue bringing the community together and help fight crime against Fil-Ams and all Asians in the U.S.

He also pledged to bring in more funding to build more community centers for Fil-Ams in New York.

The Democratic senator continued in saying he will work to foster closer ties between long-time allies Manila and Washington.

"[In] any way I can bring the Philippines and America closer together, I will," Schumer said. [Filipinos] are among the nicest people ever."