By: Naiia Lajoie   For anyone familiar with Philippine culture, you know that karaoke is big in the Philippines. One go-to Videoke classic for Filipinos is “Don’t Forget to Remember” by the Bee Gees. Even after reading that, I guarantee you one of your Titos’ voices crooned the lyrics in your head; swaying with eyes closed, microphone in hand, likely after a Red Horse or San Mig. That image is iconic in Pinoy culture. It evokes a feeling of togetherness, a jovial atmosphere, undoubtedly with plenty of food everywhere. Such positive connotations are what Consul General Edgar Badajos – of the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles – wants to elicit and foster. Through an array of curated events, educational programs, and community outreach, ConGen Badajos has been making strides since assuming his post on April 6th, 2021. His extensive ideas mirror his lengthy resume. After joining the Philippine Foreign Service in 1997, his first foreign assignment landed him in Toronto, Canada, where he served as Vice Consul from 2000 – 2003. Following that he moved to the States, serving as Vice Consul then Consul from 2003 – 2007 in New York. While the number of Filipinos in Canada is quite populous, the move saw him presiding over an even larger, denser region; the Tri State Area. Ever knowledgeable and eloquent on recounting his experiences, he offered a fun fact during the interview: “Just as trivia, the Philippine Consulate in New York is the only foreign consulate that is located on 5th Avenue. Between 52nd & 53rd street. So we are in a very strategic location, a very good location. Right in the back of the consulate area is Times Square. And to the left would be St. Patrick’s Cathedral.” This fascination for familiarizing himself...... Read more on Full Issue!