Image credit: ABS-CBN
Filipino-American Juslyn Manalo calls it a dream come true.
After being born in San Francisco and moving to Daly City at the age of eight, Manalo has been voted in as the first Filipina-American council member for Daly City.
"I think it's long overdue actually and I'm really honored to be in this place and able to serve," said Manalo.
Manalo worked for Veterans Equity Center and the Bill Sorro Housing Program, non-profit organizations in San Francisco. She's now in the private sector as a Community Engagement Associate for Forest City Enterprises. Manalo said she will fight against the fear of gentrification while still finding appropriate ways to bring about new housing in Daly City.
"I think there are possible areas for responsible development in Daly City that will bring forth more jobs, housing and revenue to make sure we don't cut services that we need," said Manalo. "I'm looking at building a hotel with a conference center so that we'll be able to use that hotel tax for our community."
With the rise of fear in the immigrant community with the election of Donald Trump, Manalo, a Clinton supporter, calls for unity and strength.
"We are a community that have struggled and stood together in many crisis situations. Let's continue to stand for our families and fellow immigrants," said Manalo.
Manalo said she remains optimistic in the future of the country and that she will focus on bringing progressive changes to her hometown.
"Without your support, your belief in me as a leader I wouldn't be here today and I'm ready to serve the city that I was raised in," she said.
Manalo will be officially inaugurated as a Daly City council woman on Monday, December 12th.