Cebuanos Engaging in Building Unity Inc.
Cebuanos Engaging in Building Unity Inc.
About CEBU Inc.
Cebuanos Engaging in Building Unity, Inc. (CEBU Inc.) is a socio-civic, non-profit Filipino-American organization based in New York City. We are dedicated to promoting Cebuano culture and heritage while serving communities both in the United States and the Philippines.
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Formed by service-driven individuals, CEBU Inc. proudly remains non-political and non-religious, guided by the values of inclusivity, neutrality, and social responsibility. Our work centers on cultural preservation, community service, and creating meaningful, lasting impact.
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As a non-profit organization, all resources are reinvested into programs and initiatives that advance our mission. Members from all backgrounds are welcomed and encouraged to contribute—ensuring our activities remain accessible, diverse, and aligned with our core values of unity and service.
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Our Mission
CEBU Inc. is dedicated to fostering unity, service, and positive change within local and global communities while preserving the richness of Cebuano culture. We empower individuals through active engagement, ethical leadership, and global citizenship, guided by camaraderie, respect, and cultural pride.
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Our Vision
We envision a dynamic, influential organization recognized for meaningful service, strong advocacy, and vibrant cultural heritage—working collaboratively to build a more connected, inclusive, and thriving world for future generations.
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Our Initiatives
Community Service
The Community Service Committee is committed to uplifting local communities through strategic, impactful initiatives that address critical needs and promote social welfare. Through partnerships, volunteerism, and culturally inspired programs, we cultivate unity, pride, and collective responsibility.
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International Service
The International Service Committee promotes global understanding and cultural exchange by showcasing Cebuano and Filipino heritage. Through international partnerships, global initiatives, and educational outreach, we strengthen cross-cultural connections and inspire individuals to become informed, engaged global citizens.
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Club Service
The Club Service Committee focuses on enriching the organizational experience by fostering fellowship, meaningful engagement, and the personal growth of members. Through training, leadership development, and collaborative events, we strengthen organizational vitality and ensure every member feels supported, valued, and empowered.
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Finance Service
The Finance Service Committee safeguards the organization’s longevity through responsible budgeting, sustainable resource management, and transparent financial reporting. With integrity at its core, the committee ensures that funding supports mission-driven initiatives and long-term growth.
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Tribu Cebuano: Cultural Heritage and Preservation
While CEBU Inc. is firmly non-religious and does not discriminate on the basis of faith, we acknowledge that Cebuano heritage is historically intertwined with traditions rooted in the celebration of Sinulog, a major cultural festival honoring Señor Santo Niño de Cebu.
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To honor Cebuano culture while maintaining organizational neutrality, Tribu Cebuano serves as the cultural division of CEBU Inc. It is dedicated to preserving and promoting Cebuano heritage through the celebration of Sinulog—recognized as a historic expression of Cebuano identity, artistry, and community spirit.
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What is Sinulog?
Sinulog is a ritual prayer-dance honoring Señor Santo Niño, whose revered image was presented to Queen Juana of Cebu in 1521 during the earliest Christian conversions in the Philippines. The festival symbolizes faith, thanksgiving, and the enduring cultural identity of the Cebuano people.
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The term “Sinulog” originates from the Cebuano word sulog, meaning “water current.” The iconic dance—two steps forward and one step back—mirrors the flow of water, expressing devotion and the rhythm of cultural tradition.
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Tribu Cebuano in the Northeastern United States
Through authentic Sinulog dance presentations and cultural exhibitions, Tribu Cebuano brings this cherished tradition to life across the Northeastern United States. By sharing Cebu’s rich history, artistry, and cultural pride, CEBU Inc. fosters appreciation not only within the Filipino diaspora but among diverse communities.
Our Story
Cebuanos Engaging in Building Unity Inc. began with a shared vision among three individuals who, like many other Filipinos, migrated from Cebu, Philippines to the United States in search of new opportunities. Upon settling in the U.S., they noticed a remarkable pattern within the Filipino immigrant community: various towns, cities, and provinces in the Philippines had their own organizations, societies, and groups—each providing a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and support. These organizations celebrated and preserved local cultures, fostering pride in one’s heritage while uniting people from the same hometowns.
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As Cebuanos in the U.S. began to grow in number, the three founders realized something was missing: there was no formal organization specifically for Cebuanos to come together. While Cebuanos were undeniably active in the Filipino community, they often found themselves supporting other regional groups rather than promoting their own distinct identity and culture. They saw that there was a need for a unified voice—a space where Cebuanos could celebrate their culture and heritage while building strong ties among themselves.
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In 2010, during a casual conversation at a Filipino restaurant in New York, the three individuals discussed the idea of creating an organization for Cebuanos. They envisioned a group that would not only serve as a cultural hub but also give Cebuanos a proud, collective identity within the Filipino community. What started as an informal conversation began to take shape over the course of the next year.
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By late 2011, after months of planning and organizing, CEBU Inc. was officially incorporated as a non-profit organization in New York, NY. The organization was founded with just 17 charter members, all passionate about their Cebuano roots. At that time, CEBU Inc. had no funds or reputation in the Filipino community, but it didn’t matter. These founding members were simply excited to finally have a space where they could come together and proudly express their Cebuano identity.
The early days of CEBU Inc. were marked by regular meetings focused on fellowship and building a sense of belonging. But as the organization grew, its members began to ask more profound questions: How can we help improve our local communities? and How can we raise awareness and invite more Cebuanos to join us? Driven by a spirit of service, the members shifted the focus to community outreach and started small fundraising initiatives to support causes both in their local New York communities and back in Cebu, Philippines.
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In 2012, a pivotal moment came when CEBU Inc. participated in the Philippine Independence Day Parade held every first Sunday of June. This was the organization’s first public appearance, and it marked the beginning of CEBU Inc.’s presence in the broader Filipino-American community. To further showcase Cebuano pride, the group introduced Tribu Cebuano, a cultural performance highlighting the vibrant tradition of Sinulog—the annual festival honoring Señor Santo Niño de Cebu. This dance, which mimics the graceful flow of Cebu’s rivers, became a powerful symbol of Cebuano heritage.
The first Sinulog performance in New York was a significant milestone for CEBU Inc., as it brought a piece of Cebu’s rich culture and history to the streets of New York. The vibrant colors, infectious rhythms, and spirited dance captured the attention and hearts of many, and Tribu Cebuano was born.
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Since that moment, CEBU Inc. has grown exponentially. Every year, our presence has strengthened, both locally and internationally. Our outreach initiatives have touched countless lives, both in New York and in Cebu. We have raised thousands of dollars to support projects that improve the lives of Cebuanos in the Philippines, from education programs to healthcare initiatives. Our cultural programs, seminars, and workshops have benefited not only our members but the wider community as well.
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Through Tribu Cebuano, we have proudly showcased Cebuano culture in various locations across the United States, with invitations pouring in from New York, Boston, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania to perform at cultural and community events. In 2023, we took our performance to new heights, receiving an invitation to dance in Milan, Italy, and again in 2025, in Venice, Italy, as part of the European Fiesta Señor celebrations—bringing the spirit of Sinulog to the world stage.
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Though our journey has had its ups and downs, the unwavering dedication of our members has kept CEBU Inc.'s mission and vision alive. Today, we continue to serve our community, celebrate Cebuano culture, and build connections that transcend borders.
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Our story is just beginning, and we are excited to see where the future will take us. CEBU Inc. is more than just an organization—it is a movement, a family, and a testament to the power of unity and cultural pride.
Our Founding Members
Our Community Partners
