New York Welcomes Manila on the Road to Clark 2026

NEW YORK CITY — What if every JCI member, no matter where they traveled in the world, knew there was a local chapter ready to welcome them, not as a visitor, but as family?

That vision came to life on July 22 as JCI Philippine-New York, together with Alumni Connect and the JCI Philippine-New York Senate Group 2026 World Congress Planning Committee, hosted an evening of fellowship for visiting leaders from JCI Manila and the 2026 JCI World Congress team.

The gathering welcomed 2026 JCI World Congress Director Sen. Luis Angelo “LA” Sevilla, 2018 Pres. Joaquin Esquivas, Sen. Miko Palarca, and 2025 Executive Treasurer Carlo Delantar, creating an atmosphere where fellowship extended far beyond formal introductions.

Earlier in the evening, members gathered at 5th & Mad to hear Sen. LA Sevilla share the vision for the 2026 JCI World Congress in Clark, a historic event that will bring the organization’s flagship global gathering back to the Philippines for the first time in 28 years. His presentation inspired members of JCI Philippine-New York to strengthen their commitment to Clark 2026, with the chapter now aiming to send 26 delegates, including approximately 23 members already expected to attend. Achieving this goal would mark the largest World Congress delegation in the chapter’s 63-year history, reflecting the organization’s continued growth and the unwavering commitment of its members to reconnect with the Philippines on the global JCI stage.

When the formal program concluded, the evening continued high above Manhattan at The Lookup, where the Empire State Building provided a breathtaking backdrop for a more intimate gathering.

There, conversations shifted from programs and projects to the stories that define every JCI journey. Members exchanged travel experiences, favorite restaurants from around the world, cherished Filipino breakfasts, and the personal moments that shaped their leadership. They reflected on how they first discovered JCI, the friendships that changed their lives, and the legacies they hope to leave for future generations.

For many, it felt less like a networking event and more like a reunion among lifelong friends.

One guest remarked that spending the evening on a Manhattan rooftop beneath the glowing Empire State Building felt like something from a movie, a sitcom, or a dream. For one unforgettable night, that dream became reality as New York and Manila felt just a little closer.

The evening also reflected the essence of Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. While international partnerships are often celebrated in conference halls and boardrooms, their strongest foundations are built through genuine human connection. Every shared laugh, meaningful conversation, and newfound friendship strengthened the global network that defines JCI.

For JCI Philippine-New York, the gathering reaffirmed its long-standing mission of welcoming fellow Filipinos, building bridges across borders, celebrating Filipino excellence, and fostering relationships that extend far beyond any single event.

Looking ahead to Clark 2026, discussions also explored opportunities to host a JCI Philippine-New York luncheon and fellowship activities during the World Congress, creating even more opportunities for members from around the world to reconnect, collaborate, and celebrate together.

The success of the evening was made possible through the collaborative efforts of JCI Philippine-New York and its dedicated volunteers, with special recognition to JCI Manila Commissioner Carlo Cruz for his outstanding coordination and continued support of the Americas Region in preparation for the 2026 JCI World Congress. His work has helped strengthen the growing partnership between JCI Manila and Filipino chapters across the United States.

More than a welcome reception, the evening became the beginning of a historic journey home. As JCI Philippine-New York prepares to bring its largest-ever delegation to Clark, the gathering served as a reminder of what makes JCI truly unique: wherever members go in the world, they are never strangers.

They are family.

And when the world gathers once again in the Philippines for JCI World Congress 2026, those friendships formed beneath the New York skyline will continue to inspire a global community united by leadership, service, and the enduring spirit of brotherhood.