The Philippines’ global presence is often measured through familiar indicators—remittances, migration numbers, and the achievements of the 11 million-strong Filipino diaspora. In this article by Toronto-based professor and PF contributing writer Cesar Polvorosa, Jr., he invites us to look beyond those measures and recognize a deeper, less visible resource: the relationships, knowledge, opportunities, and networks that Filipinos build wherever they go. From communities in Canada to connections forged through sports, culture, and entrepreneurship, the Filipino diaspora has become an increasingly important bridge between the Philippines and the wider world.

This is the idea captured by what he calls Filipino diasporic capital: the collective value created by Filipinos who carry their skills, experiences, relationships, and aspirations across borders. As this article argues, the challenge before the Philippines is no longer simply to acknowledge the sacrifices of its people abroad, but to understand and engage the extraordinary network they have already built. The Philippines is already a global nation—and its people abroad may be among its greatest assets in shaping what comes next. We can only wish that our homeland's leaders will be able to recognize and harness such rich potential for the national good.

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In this issue we are reposting a report from AsAmNews about the rebuilding efforts in Lahaina, Hawaii whose population is 40% Filipino. The fire of August 2023 that wiped out Lahaina's historic downtown, decimated hundreds of homes and structures, and killed over a hundred, is considered the deadliest wildfire in the U.S. in the last 100 years.

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Read as well chapter 81 of our popular series, FilAms Among the Remarkable and Famous. And a profile of Vince Tañada, lawyer/playwright/theater and film director and actor.

[Video of the Week] Building Communities: A Tribute to our Manongs and Manangs 2026

{Read It Again]

We are reposting here some of the articles contributed by the acclaimed poet/writer Marra PL. Lanot who passed away on Sunday, August 16. This is our way of saying goodbye and thank you for her honoring Positively Filipino with her writings.

Of Fireflies and Firebrands by Marra PL. Lanot

Remembering Nick by Marra PL. Lanot

The Beatles in the Philippines by Marra PL. Lanot