ABOUT US
ABOUT US Title: "Hilario Camino Moncado, The Filipino Federation of America, and Their Enduring Legacy"
Introduction: The history of the Filipino Federation of America is intrinsically linked with the early Filipino immigrants who arrived in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s, often referred to as "Sakadas" or working-class individuals. These pioneers faced harsh discrimination, prejudice, and economic hardships, as they struggled to adapt to life in a foreign land, far from their families and the company of women. Amid these challenges, two organizations, the 'Caballeros de Dimas Alang' and 'Legionarios del Trabajo,' emerged as early support systems for Filipino immigrants, primarily those toiling in the Hawaiian sugar cane fields. However, the Filipino Federation of America, Inc. and its charismatic founder, Hilario Camino Moncado, competed fiercely for members and played a pivotal role in reshaping the Filipino immigrant experience in America.
Moncado's Origins: Hilario Camino Moncado was born into a humble rural family in Balamban, Cebu, Philippines, with his original name being Hillarion Caminos Moncada, and he legally changed it to Hilario Camino Moncado in 1919 while residing in San Francisco. His thirst for knowledge led him to graduate from Lowell High School and subsequently enroll in the Law School at the University of Southern California by the end of 1919. Notably, he won a significant case that challenged the prohibition of Filipinos marrying white individuals, debunking the notion that Filipinos were part of the Mongolian race. He also authored a book titled "DIVINITY OF WOMAN." These achievements coincided with the pressing need for Filipino leadership to combat the prevalence of vices and illegal activities, such as pool halls, gambling houses, and opium dens in Chinatown. In response, Moncado founded the Filipino Federation of America, Inc., giving it an air of legitimacy and significance.
Objectives of the Federation: The Filipino Federation of America outlined twelve objectives that would become the cornerstone of the organization. These objectives encompassed the Filipino community's bicultural existence in America, emphasizing mutual aid, moral standards, Christian values, and addressing issues related to Philippine-American relations, particularly the quest for Philippine independence. These objectives also served as a statement of the worthiness of Filipinos to find their rightful place in American society. Moreover, the Federation integrated mystical and spiritual symbolism into its mission, employing numerology with the number 12 as a central motif. This numerical significance extended to the organization's structure, with divisions, lodges, and members aligning with this mystical number.
Material and Spiritual Aspects: The Filipino Federation of America was seen by its members as having both material and spiritual dimensions. The material activities were initially run from an office in downtown Los Angeles but later transitioned to a mansion, a collective effort by all members. These activities included events like the 1926 Rizal Day celebration, job placement assistance, English language classes, and Sunday school classes. In contrast, the spiritual side of the Federation was marked by mystical initiation ceremonies and a set of specially written prayers for power, protection against evil, and resistance to temptation. Lorenzo de Los Reyes played a pivotal role as the spiritual leader, introducing fasting, physical education, and a raw food diet, and setting up the 'College of Mysteries' in Stockton, California, which served as the spiritual center.
Challenges and Resilience: The Federation faced challenges and criticisms, both from within and outside the Filipino community. Some regarded Federation members as passive in the face of discrimination and ridicule, citing the influence of Moncado and Reyes, who urged peaceful resistance to test their spiritual strength. However, such criticisms only solidified the members' belief in the Christ-like persona of Moncado. The Federation also faced external attacks, including the bombing of its headquarters in 1930, though no one claimed responsibility. Despite these trials, Moncado's charisma, ambition, and visionary leadership kept the Federation intact.
War Years and Beyond: During World War II, Moncado was arrested by the Japanese for his support of the United States but was released after enduring torture. He later became "Commander X" of the Crusaders Army Forces throughout the Philippines, leading guerrilla fighters to disrupt enemy communication and fight against the Japanese occupiers. However, post-war changes, including the Tydings-McDuffie Act, restricted Filipino immigration to the United States and trapped many Federation members in the Philippines. Moncado and his wife faced deportation hearings and ended up living in Baja California, Mexico, where he passed away in 1956.
Conclusion: The Filipino Federation of America, under the leadership of Hilario Camino Moncado and Lorenzo de Los Reyes, left a lasting legacy that encouraged members to interpret and experience the Federation in their unique ways. The organization's adaptability allowed for the integration of new ideas, and the objectives were not rigid, enabling fresh concepts to be readily embraced. Despite the criticisms and challenges faced, the Federation's enduring spirit and the belief in the leadership of Moncado persisted. This remarkable chapter in the immigrant experience in America serves as a tribute to the Federation and its visionary leaders, marking a unique contribution to Filipino history.