littlemanilapark.com

Update March 2026: After getting the Permit last December 12 2024, we have cleared the site with volunteers from the community and our supporters!! We had a successful sign unveiling ceremony on June 14, 2025. We continually fundraise for construction expenses. We will also continue to apply for grants with the support of our elected officials. (See Letters of Support from the Queens Community Board 2 and NY State Assemblymember Steven Raga below). The project is to transform the idle and forested site into an artistic community park that will be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. The existing trees and vegetation were cleared and pruned, with some removed as recommended by our consultant NYS certified arborists. The park will continue to be fenced for security and maintenance, and will be open at designated days and hours during the non-winter seasons. Gazebos, picnic tables, and benches as well as photo backdrops have been installed, with a central stage for occasional community events and performances. Community partnerships will be established for the park’s safety and upkeep, as well as the enhancement to the quality of life in the surroundings. The park is dedicated to the heroes, living and deceased, of the Covid pandemic, many of Filipino-American descent, since the site is within what was once a global epicenter. Councilmember Julie Won, Queens Community Board #2 Leader Anatole Ashraf, Queens Boro President Donovan Richards, and Consulate General Senen Mangalile are very helpful too. Our grand opening is scheduled for June 13, 2026! Do check out our latest photos at “The Site” menu option. Please check the “How To Help” and “Contact” menu tabs too. Mabuhay at maraming salamat po!!

The “Uprise” statue will honor all the heroes, living and deceased, of the Covid-19 Pandemic as the site falls within a former global epicenter. Many of these frontline workers who sacrificed or risked their lives were Filipino-Americans who served in the food service and healthcare industries, when no one wanted to work. Filipino nurses comprised only 4% of the workforce in the US, however accounted for 1/3 of the deaths during the height of the pandemic. We dedicate the park to you for your care and inspiration to the future generations.