In July, the United Pilipinos of Alameda (UPA) held its 43rd Annual Outstanding Student of Filipino Ancestry Awards Ceremony at the Harbor Bay Community Center. Every year, public and private schools in Alameda nominate deserving graduating or promoting students to win awards based on their academic achievement, character and leadership abilities.  

On top of honoring the students, the ceremony is also an opportunity for UPA and the community to publicly acknowledge the important role of parents and share in their pride and sense of accomplishment.

This year UPA honored: Siyena Hines, Earhart Elementary; Leslie Ramos, Edison Elementary; Sean Soliman, Franklin Elementary; Diana Tecson, Haight Elementary; Yesha de Guzman, Lum Elementary; Conrad Bautista, Maya Lin Elementary; Orion Conde, Otis Elementary; Jasmine Ferrer, Paden Elementary; Ira Ventura, Ruby Bridges Elementary; Nicolas Ortiz, St. Joseph Elementary; Julia Ramos, St. Philip Neri Elementary; James Burton, The Academy of Alameda; Jenna Ah-Hing, Lincoln Middle; Abero Geronga, Wood Middle; Allana Ilagan, Alameda High; Jacob Zamorano Yalung, Alameda Science & Technology Institute; Darnel Lacap, Encinal High; Ryan Ong, Island High; and Samantha Obligacion, St. Joseph Notre Dame.  

The master of ceremonies was Hon. Benjamin T. Reyes, Contra Costa County Superior Court Judge. 

The keynote speaker was local author Renee Macalino Rutledge.