Welcome to PACCA Newsletter Volume 2
Rooted in Community. Rising Together.
Stay connected with our latest updates, community stories, and upcoming events.
March 2026 Issue
Message from The Immediate Past President
Message From The 2026 PACCA State President and Editor-In-Chief
Business News & Updates
How U.S.–Iran Tensions Could Shape World Markets: And Why It Matters to PACCA Members Here at Home
Written by: Kristine Bartolome
Over the past few days, global headlines have focused on rising tensions between the United States and Iran. A recent analysis by Reuters explored how these developments could ripple through world markets — and while it may seem far from Arizona, the impact can hit closer to home than we think.
At PACCA, we always say: global events shape local business realities.
This is one of those moments.
BUSINESS RESOURCE TOOLBOX
Cybersecurity During Tax Season: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know
Written by: Kristine Bartolome
Tax season is already demanding—tight deadlines, financial reviews, payroll filings, and coordinating with accountants. But while you’re focused on compliance, cybercriminals are focused on you.
According to the National Cybersecurity Alliance through its educational platform StaySafeOnline, tax season is one of the most targeted times of the year for small business cyberattacks. Why? Because businesses are handling their most sensitive data—employee records, EIN numbers, bank information, and tax documents.
For PACCA members, protecting your business is protecting your livelihood, your employees, and the community we serve.
Let’s break this down by industry so you can see what this means for YOU.
BUSINESS RESOURCE TOOLBOX
Grants & Training Resources For Women-Owned Businesses
Written By : Richelle Caubang
March is a time to celebrate the strength, leadership, and innovation of women. It is also an opportunity to support their continued growth in entrepreneurship. Across Phoenix and Arizona, women-owned businesses are playing a powerful role in shaping local communities, driving economic impact, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Yet building and sustaining a business requires more than passion; it requires access to knowledge, mentorship, funding, and supportive networks. Fortunately, a growing ecosystem of grants, training programs, accelerators, and community initiatives exists to help women entrepreneurs start, scale, and thrive.
In honor of Women’s Month, we have curated a list of current grants, training opportunities, and strategic resources available in March and April 2026. Whether you are launching a new venture, expanding an existing business, or exploring new pathways for growth, these programs are designed to provide practical tools, financial support, and meaningful connections to help you move forward with confidence.
COMMUNITY EVENT SPOTLIGHT
Celebrating Women, Culture, and Leadership at the International Women Celebration Gala 2026
Written By : Coco Gonzales
The International Women Celebration Gala 2026 brought together an inspiring group of community leaders, cultural advocates, and champions of women’s empowerment for an unforgettable evening dedicated to recognizing leadership, service, and generosity across diverse communities.
MEMBER ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT
Real Estate Agent & Team Leader | The Le Sampaga Team
Written by: Richelle Caubang
This Women’s Month, PACCA is proud to spotlight
Cabrina Le-Sampaga — a resilient leader, dedicated mother, and accomplished real estate professional whose journey reflects both strength and heart.
HERITAGE & CULTURE
Gabriela Silang: The Spirit of the Filipina Warrior
Written by: Richelle Caubang
Long before the modern conversations about women’s leadership and empowerment began, the Philippines already had a powerful symbol of Filipina courage — Gabriela Silang. Born María Josefa Gabriela Cariño de Silang in 1731 in Ilocos Sur, she became one of the most iconic female figures in Philippine history and the first Filipina to lead a revolutionary movement against colonial rule.
During the Spanish colonial era, Gabriela Silang emerged as a fearless leader following the assassination of her husband, Diego Silang, who had been spearheading an Ilocano revolt. Rather than retreat into mourning, she reorganized rebel forces, appointed military leaders, and continued the struggle for independence which is a rare and revolutionary role for a woman in the 18th century.
Although her leadership lasted only a few months before she was captured and executed in 1763, her legacy endured far beyond her lifetime. She became a symbol of resistance, resilience, and the strength of Filipina identity proving that women were not merely witnesses to history but active architects of change.
Today, Gabriela Silang represents more than revolutionary bravery. She embodies the cultural spirit of the Filipina: courageous, determined, community-driven, and unafraid to lead. Her story continues to inspire generations of women who challenge boundaries and redefine leadership in modern times.
PACCA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
A Life of Faith, Strength & Purpose: Coco Gonzalez
Written By : Daniel Bartolome
Born in Guanajuato, Mexico, with beautiful family roots tracing back to the Philippines and Spain, this PACCA member’s story is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering faith. From a young age, she embraced life fully — grounded in family values, guided by faith, and fueled by a deep desire for growth.
PACCA UPDATE & NEWS
PACCA Hosts Business 101: From Foundation to Growth, Money, Law and Strategy with 2026 VIP Tour Launch
Written By : Edward Lago
The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA) successfully hosted Business 101: From Foundation to Growth, Money, Law and Strategy on March 5, 2026, at Halo-Halo Kitchen in Phoenix, bringing together entrepreneurs, professionals, community leaders, and community members for an evening of learning, networking, and opportunity.
The event was organized by the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA), with the support of Philippine Honorary Consul Jenny Lynn M. Ho-Vijungco and served as an important platform for business education and community engagement.
PACCA MEMBER NEWS & SPOTLIGHTS
Welcome to PACCA!
Welcome to PACCA: Nelver Nagera
Financial Professional | Financial Educator | CVICU RN | ECMO Specialist
The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA) is excited to welcome our newest member, Nelver Nagera!
Nelver is a multi-talented professional with expertise in both finance and healthcare. As a Financial Professional and Financial Educator, she is passionate about empowering individuals and businesses to make informed financial decisions and achieve long-term growth. In her healthcare career as a CVICU Registered Nurse and ECMO Specialist, Nelver demonstrates precision, care, and dedication, supporting patients in critical moments and making a tangible impact on their lives.
Her unique combination of skills reflects a commitment to service, empowerment, and community impact. Nelver’s dedication to helping others succeed—whether through financial guidance or life-saving care—makes her a valuable addition to the PACCA network.
We are thrilled to have Nelver join PACCA and look forward to the expertise, insights, and positive influence she brings. Her passion for empowering others aligns perfectly with PACCA’s mission to support and strengthen the Philippine-American business and professional community.
Welcome to PACCA, Nelver—we’re glad to have you with us!
Learn more: nelnagera@icloud.com
Welcome to PACCA: Nina Cedro
Co-Founder | Marketing & Branding Strategist | Community Advocate
The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA) is excited to welcome our newest member, Nina Cedro!
Nina is the Co-Founder of TalaKō Creative, a team of passionate professionals dedicated to helping local businesses grow through intentional strategy and digital storytelling. Known for “Creating Good Problems for Great Businesses,” TalaKō Creative specializes in marketing, branding, and community-driven strategies that empower established local businesses to thrive.
Nina’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering a strong, connected business community aligns perfectly with PACCA’s mission. Her expertise in strategic growth and storytelling brings fresh insights and valuable opportunities to Arizona’s business network.
We are thrilled to have Nina and TalaKō Creative join PACCA and look forward to the positive impact they will bring to our community and beyond.
Welcome to PACCA, Nina—we’re glad to have you with us!
Welcome to PACCA: Erica Kazuko
Co-Founder | Creative Marketing Leader | Storytelling Strategist | Community Builder
The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA) is excited to welcome our newest member, Erica Kazuko!
Erica is the Co-Founder of TalaKō Creative, where she leads a dedicated team of creatives committed to helping local businesses grow through intentional strategy and digital storytelling. Known for “Creating Good Problems for Great Businesses,” TalaKō Creative specializes in marketing, branding, and community-driven strategies that empower established companies to expand with purpose and clarity.
Erica’s passion for supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening the business community aligns perfectly with PACCA’s mission. Her leadership and expertise in strategic marketing and storytelling bring fresh perspectives and meaningful opportunities to Arizona’s business network.
We are thrilled to have Erica and TalaKō Creative join PACCA and look forward to the positive impact they will bring to our community and beyond.
Welcome to PACCA, Erica—we’re glad to have you with us!
Women’s month Spotlight
Women’s Month Spotlight: Celebrating Filipina Leadership
Written By : Richelle Caubang
Every March, communities around the world pause to recognize Women’s Month—a time to honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of women who shape our families, communities, and future.
For the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA), this celebration is also an opportunity to highlight the remarkable Filipina leaders within our community whose work reflects the enduring values of service, leadership, and bayanihan.
This year, PACCA is proud to spotlight two inspiring women whose journeys embody the spirit of Filipina leadership. Through their work in community service, advocacy, and leadership, they continue to uplift others while strengthening connections within the Filipino community in Arizona and beyond.
In the following pages, we feature the stories of Honorary Philippine Consul Jenny Lynn Ho-Vijungco, Arizona’s first Honorary Philippine Consul, and Rhia “Luz” Nkulu, founder and host of Buhay Buhay Sa Amerika. Though their paths and professions differ, both women share a common mission: to lead with compassion, empower others, and create meaningful impact for future generations.
Women’s month SPOTLIGHT
Leading with Purpose: Honorary Philippine Consul Jenny Lynn Ho-Vijungco and the Power of Service
Written by: Richelle Caubang
Business leader, healthcare administrator, philanthropist, and Arizona’s first Honorary Philippine Consul, Jenny Lynn Ho-Vijungco embodies Filipina leadership rooted in compassion, community, and the enduring spirit of bayanihan.
Following this celebration of Filipina leadership, we begin with Honorary Philippine Consul Jenny Ho-Vijungco, whose work in diplomacy, healthcare, business, and philanthropy reflects a deep commitment to service and community. As Arizona’s first Honorary Philippine Consul, she continues to strengthen the connection between Arizona and the Philippines while uplifting the Filipino community through leadership rooted in compassion, faith, and the spirit of bayanihan.
Women’s month SPOTLIGHT
Finding Voice Through Faith and Purpose:
The Leadership Journey of Rhia Luz Nkulu
Written by: Richelle Caubang
A registered nurse, community advocate, and founder of Buhay Buhay Sa Amerika, Rhia Luz Nkulu embodies Filipina leadership rooted in resilience, faith, and the power of bayanihan — inspiring a new generation to lead with purpose.
Another inspiring Filipina making a meaningful impact in the community is Rhia “Luz” Nkulu, founder and host of Buhay Buhay Sa Amerika. Through storytelling, service, and encouragement, she has created a platform that connects, inspires, and amplifies the voices of Filipinos both locally and globally.
Through her work as a registered nurse, community advocate, and Arizona Chairwoman for the Women’s Federation for World Peace, Rhia represents the evolving strength of Filipina leadership — grounded in heritage while boldly shaping the future.
Based in Chandler, Arizona, Rhia balances multiple roles as a healthcare professional, mother of three daughters, and community leader — all guided by a deep commitment to service. Her journey into leadership became clearer when she joined the Women’s Federation for World Peace, an experience that helped her understand her purpose as a woman, mother, and servant-leader. Through this chapter, she discovered how her unique gifts could be used to serve both community and faith.
“My daughters inspired me,” she shares. Leadership, for Rhia, is both deeply personal and generational. It is a way to model perseverance, faith, and courage while encouraging others to recognize their own potential.
Upcoming event
Celebrating Leadership, Service, and New Beginnings: PACCA’s 2026 Ceremonial Turnover & Induction of Officers and New Members
The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA) proudly invites members, partners, and the community to a distinguished evening of celebration at the Ceremonial Turnover & Induction of Officers and New Members on April 11, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Set against the elegant backdrop of the Courtyard by Marriott Salt River in Scottsdale, this highly anticipated event marks a significant milestone in PACCA’s continued commitment to empowering Filipino-American businesses and fostering strong community ties.
FINAL THOUGHTS
As we close out this March edition, we are reminded that the strength of our community lies in our shared commitment to growth, collaboration, and service.
Each story, event, and milestone featured this month reflects the vibrant spirit of PACCA—a community built on connection and driven by purpose.
From empowering entrepreneurs to celebrating culture and supporting one another through meaningful initiatives, PACCA continues to serve as a bridge for opportunity and impact.
For over three decades, the organization has remained dedicated to fostering relationships, supporting businesses, and uplifting the Filipino-American community in Arizona and beyond.
As we look ahead to the coming months, we are excited for what’s to come—especially our upcoming Ceremonial Turnover & Induction of Officers and New Members,
where we will celebrate leadership, welcome new members, and continue building a stronger future together.
Let us carry forward the spirit of bayanihan—working together, supporting one another, and creating opportunities not just for ourselves, but for the generations to come.
Thank you for being part of PACCA. Together, we grow stronger.
2025 PACCA Newsletter Archive
- October Issue
- November Issue
- December Issue