Celebrating Service and Heritage: A Filipino American Story at EDD

October is Filipino American History Month, a time to honor the history, resilience, and contributions of Filipino Americans. As a Filipino American serving Californians through the Employment Development Department (EDD), I take great pride in seeing how the values of our culture—specifically bayanihan, or communal unity, compassion, and service—extends directly to the work I do in supporting California workers and families in need on behalf of EDD. This is a small but very important way I give back to my community.

I see my role at EDD as a public servant, working hard to provide Californians of all backgrounds, including the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, are supported. People reach out to EDD because they need help, and it is my job to ensure they know about the programs and services available to them.

EDD is best known for unemployment, which provides temporary financial support to workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. But this program is just one part of a much broader safety net. EDD also provides:

· Disability Insurance: Partial wage replacement for workers who cannot work due to illness, injury, or pregnancy.

· Paid Family Leave: Benefits for workers who take time off to care for a seriously ill family member, bond with a new child, or support a military family member during their deployment.

· Job Services and Training: Access to job matching, career counseling, and training opportunities that help people re-enter the workforce.

· Employer Services: Guidance for businesses on payroll taxes, compliance, and resources to support their employees.

· Labor Market Information: High quality and timely data and reports on California’s labor force, industries, occupations, employment projections, wages and more.

Every day, Californians rely on these programs to help them get through unexpected, challenging times. Whether someone is waiting for their first paycheck after a layoff, recovering from surgery, or balancing work while caring for a newborn, EDD is there to help.

Growing up, I was taught the importance of community and service. Whether it was through the Boy Scouts, mission work, or simply lending a hand to neighbors, I learned that true strength comes from helping others. That value of bayanihan stays with me today.

Filipino American History Month is a reminder of how culture and community shape our contributions to society. For me, it is an honor to bring the values of my heritage into my work. Every call I take is an opportunity to serve and to ensure that Californians know that we are here and ready to help during difficult times, like losing their job or getting injured and unable to work, and the good times like celebrating the birth of a new baby. There are so many different support services that provide financial stability and resources when they’re needed most. I encourage people to see EDD more than just a government agency but also as a partner that can help navigate life’s challenges.

As we celebrate Filipino American History Month, I encourage everyone to explore what EDD has to offer. We may be able to provide services and support you didn’t even know you needed! Get the support you deserve and visit edd.ca.gov today.