ABOUT US
Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance
About the Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA)
The Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to promoting Filipino culture, heritage, and civic engagement in Harvard Square and beyond. Founded by Satrick and Catherine Uy, HSPAA partners with local schools, businesses, organizations, and cultural institutions to create events that celebrate Filipino identity and foster cross-cultural understanding.
In honor of Philippine History Month, HSPAA’s programs are designed to raise cultural awareness, educate the public, and inspire service—especially among youth. Through mentorship, volunteer opportunities, and intergenerational collaboration, we empower emerging leaders to take pride in their heritage, build community, and contribute meaningfully to the civic life of Cambridge and the greater New England region.
Our Values
Integrity and Mutual Respect. Diversity, Social Equity, and Inclusion. Leadership and Education. Advocacy and Collaboration
Mission
Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA) aspires to foster an inclusive, safe, and socially equitable environment where all forms of diversity are accepted and valued.
Vision
Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA), a nonprofit organization focused and committed on creating a collaborative community and culture where every member’s identity is strengthened through leadership empowerment, educational forums, and programs on the uniqueness of the Filipino culture, advocating for the needs of the HSPAA community and addressing Asian and Pacific Islander hate issues.
some cool facts
Events Statistics
Empowering the Filipino & Asian Community
The Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA) is a vibrant community that celebrates the rich heritage of the Filipino and Asian people. Your generous donations will allow us to continue organizing festivals, parades, and gatherings that showcase Asian music, dance, and delicious food.
Thank you for supporting HSPAA and helping us create a more inclusive and vibrant community.
Donate today and make a difference!
Board of Directors
Meet the Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance Board of Directors

Catherine Uy
President
Catherine Carandang-Uy

Catherine Carandang-Uy is a celebrated leader whose work bridges entrepreneurship, cultural celebration, and civic empowerment. Based in Cambridge, MA, she is the co-founder and President of the Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA), a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting Filipino American identity through education, dialogue, and public celebration.
A multi-award-winning global sales executive turned cultural entrepreneur, Catherine has launched ventures that span hospitality, entertainment, and community development. She founded SCAT Productions, bringing iconic acts like Jabbawockeez, Sarah Geronimo, and MYMP to U.S. stages, and previously owned Kubo, a beloved Asian fusion restaurant that became a hub for cultural connection.
Her leadership extends across civic organizations, having served as Chairwoman of PAFCOM, PIDCI, and the Harvard Graduate Commons Program, and as founder of the first Filipino Culture Club at Harvard University. Whether organizing large-scale festivals or intimate community rituals, Catherine’s work is rooted in joy, resilience, and representation.
She continues to inspire through her strategic vision, deep empathy, and unwavering commitment to building inclusive spaces where heritage and healing thrive.

Satrick Uy
Vice President
Satrick Uy

Satrick Uy is currently the Vice President of Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA). He is a dedicated individual with a passion for organizing and coordinating special events. As the Director of Banquets at Harvard University, Satrick brings his expertise and creativity to ensure memorable experiences for the university community and its guests.
Before his tenure at Harvard, Satrick honed his skills in the hospitality industry, working as Restaurant and Room Service Manager at esteemed establishments such as the New York Palace Hotel, W Hotel, Regent Wall Street Hotel, and RIHGA Royal Hotel NY. His experience in managing restaurant service operations and banquet services equipped him with a keen eye for detail and a strong sense of customer satisfaction.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Satrick has actively engaged with various organizations and initiatives. He played a pivotal role in SCAT Productions, contributing to the success of the entertainment company. Satrick’s passion for community-building and cultural awareness led him to found several Filipino-American groups, including the Cambridge Fil-Am Group and the Boston Fil-Am Group. These organizations, including TGIF (“Thank God I’m Filipino”), aim to celebrate Filipino culture and foster a sense of belonging within the Filipino-Americancommunity.
Satrick’s most recent venture, the Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA), showcases his commitment to creating a platform for the Philippine-American community within the Harvard Square area. As the founder of HSPAA, Satrick spearheads initiatives that promote cultural exchange, education, and advocacy.
Satrick Uy’s diverse background, combining expertise in event management, hospitality, and community engagement, makes him an invaluable asset to the non-profit organization he represents. Through his tireless efforts and dedication, he continues to make a positive impact on both the Harvard University community and the broader community he serves.

Satrick Camerone Uy
Secretary
Satrick Camerone Uy

Satrick Camerone Uy is currently the Secretary of Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA). He is a dynamic individual with a zest for cultural affairs, cooking, and fashion. Currently working as a business analyst at an energy company, Camerone‘s professional acumen is matched by their dedication to promoting cultural awareness and fostering meaningful connections within their community. With an innate passion for diverse cuisines, Camerone savors the flavors of different cultures, finding inspiration in culinary traditions. His love for food and fashion fuels their creativity, enabling them to appreciate and celebrate the unique expressions of style found across cultures. Camerone‘s commitment to making a positive impact through their involvement with community building and making food for others reflects their deep belief in the power of cultural exchange and the transformative potential of shared experiences.

Nela Charade Galang Puno
Board Member
Nela Charade Galang Puno

Charade works at the intersection of healthcare transformation, social entrepreneurship and innovation. She graduated from the Harvard Kennedy School in 2023 with a Master’s in Public Administration.
She is the Co-founder of Green Hero Corporation, a product development company committed to championing Philippine medicinal herbs through science-based nutrition.
“Everything we develop and produce aims to champion Philippine therapeutic herbs in partnership with our network of communities —“real people” making products that bring meaning and connection to your home.”
Being a cancer survivor, she has been in constant pursuit of ethically sourced therapeutic herbs and an advocate on preventive health.
As the Deputy Secretary General for Health Legislation for the National Unity Party (NUP), she consults on government efforts focused on universal healthcare.
Her engagement with Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA) as an advisory Board Member lies on her belief that strengthening the Filipino- American community through networking and outreach events gives a stronger sense of inclusiveness, independence and pride- because empowered people become agents of change in their own lives and actors of their own development.
She has over 15 years of experience in regulatory affairs management, operational transformation and business development having occupied leadership positions in the private and public sector. In this regard, she has led strategic engagements in business turnarounds, process reengineering, organizational change, best-practices accreditation and digital revolutions.
Charade was the first woman Director-General of the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) appointed by the country’s President. She has successfully steered the national agency through its challenging stages of reform, restructure and operational expansion in public service delivery. Under her leadership , FDA accomplished such important milestones in the streamlining of regulatory processes and procedures (anti-red tape) , the roll-out of enforcement (fight against counterfeit, corruption) and the decentralization of regional offices (better access to public service ), all these enabling the FDA to be a more responsive, citizen- centric public health authority. Charade is also a recipient of the 2018 Best-M Government Service award at the World Government Summit in Dubai. When she’s not working, you can find Charade traveling and diving into pharmacies, going to the beach, or taking care of her dog and three cats.

Josephine Jalandoni
Board Member
Josephine Jalandoni

Josephine Jalandoni is currently a Board Member of the Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA). A tireless advocate of Filipino heritage, Joji, as her close friends fondly call her, has facilitated cultural shows for the Filipino American community in New York for about a decade. Her most memorable feat was the 2018 Philippine Independence Day Parade on Madison Avenue, where festival performers from Iloilo City and Guimaras province regaled New Yorkers with colorful imagery and dance, a feat no other Filipino-American leader has done. A nurse by profession, Jalandoni promotes cultural shows to keep Filipino heritage alive for future generations.
She is known among New York City Ilonggos as “the Mother of Dinagyang and Manggahan Festivals in the New York City Philippine Independence Day Parade.” A New Jersey-based nurse, originally from Victorias City, Negros Occidental.
Jalandoni, who has a Master’s degree in Hospital Administration/Nurse Executive Program from the Teachers College at Columbia University, has gone above the regular duties of a nurse and currently holds the position of infection control and associate prevention director at her place of employment.
Jalandoni has served as president of the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) and the Silliman University Alumni Association New York-New Jersey Chapter, where she has worked in many community activities.

Lidy Chan
Board Member
Lidy Chan

Lidy Chan is an accomplished, veteran leader in the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. She started her community service when she was in elementary school in Cebu, Philippines by tutoring students and providing free school supplies to underserved students in her school. She continues her community involvement when she came to the United States in early 1990 and decided to reside in Boston, Massachusetts.
Lidy serves as a Board Member of the Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HPAA), Culture and Arts Director for the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), a member of NaFFAA Massachusetts Dance Troupe, Director of Philippine Mainstream Advocacy of Non-partisan Associations, Inc (PAMANA), a Board member of Foxborough Cultural Council (FCC), a member of St. Mary’s Choir. Advisory Board member as well as Immediate Past President for the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) Boston Chapter and Treasurer for Massachusetts Women of Color Coalition (MAWOCC).
Lidy works at Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) as a Risk Financing Manager. In addition to her day-to-day duties overseeing the Risk Management and Insurance Department, she is involved in MassDOT’s many programs serving as a mentor, Partners in Transportation Diversity Planning Committee member, Chair of AAPI Heritage month celebration, a founding member for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Employee Advisory Council, a member of the MassDOT Employee Resource Group (ERG) Council.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Commerce with minors in Economics, Banking, Finance and Marketing at Southwestern University, Philippines. She attended a finance continuing education at Northeastern University, Boston and completed her associate in risk management designation at Insurance Institute of America. Lidy resides in Foxborough with her husband Jeff, two children Julie & Jessica, and a toy poodle Winston.

Rhea Barlin So
Board Member
Rhea Barlin So

Rhea Barlin So is an accomplished community organizer and cultural programmer dedicated to fostering inclusive public spaces, grassroots engagement, and cross cultural collaboration. She currently leads the Footprints of Boston summer activation at Brewer Fountain in Boston Common, where she curates everyday experiences that celebrate the city’s diversity through art, music, local entrepreneurship, and community partnerships.
Rhea holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing, providing her with a strong foundation in strategic planning, brand development, and community engagement. Her academic background complements her extensive hands-on experience in public programming and the nonprofit sector.
In addition to her current work, Rhea is an active member of the Harvard Square Phil-Am Alliance, where she advocates for Filipino-American culture and promotes community involvement through events, advocacy, and outreach initiatives.
Recognized for her collaborative approach, meticulous attention to detail, and deep rooted connections within the communities she serves, Rhea is passionate about transforming public spaces into environments that are joyful, inclusive, and truly reflective of the people who gather there.

Maya Johnson
Board Member
Maya Johnson

Maya Johnson is a dedicated entrepreneur, esthetician, and proud Filipina with a strong commitment to community, healing, and cultural representation. As the owner of Honey Lash Bar & Spa, she seamlessly integrates beauty, faith, and mental health to empower women to feel radiant both inside and out.
As a valued board member of HSPAA, Maya applies her spiritual foundation, business acumen, and passion for Asian culture to her initiatives. She is devoted to amplifying voices, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting mental health within the Asian community and beyond.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Maya finds tranquility in nature, prayer, and cherished moments with loved ones. She believes that beauty is a reflection of divine design and that every individual possesses a purpose deserving of recognition.
Creative & Technology
Our specialized team of experts who provide essential guidance in making creative content, fostering innovation and ensuring technological efficiency for HSPAA.

Ralph Samson
Creative & Technology Director
Ralph Samson

Ralph Lauren Samson
Creative & Technical Director, HSPAA
RL leads the design and execution of visual assets, promotional materials, and graphics that reflect HSPAA’s vibrant celebration of Filipino American culture. His creative leadership brings cohesion and impact to print and digital content, including signage, posters, and social media visuals that elevate community engagement.
As founder and CEO of Design District Studios LLC, RL brings over a decade of expertise in graphic design, print production, and marketing strategy, infusing each HSPAA initiative with clarity, cultural resonance, and professional polish.

Kurt-Michael Songcog
Board Member
Kurt-Michael Songcog

Kurt-Michael Songcog holds an M.S.Ed. in Higher Education from the University of Pennsylvania and a B.A. in Criminology, Law, and Society from UC Irvine. Originally from Queens, NY, he has a passion for supporting diverse student communities, drawing from rich experiences in intercultural communication, academic advising, and orientation. Kurt loves learning people’s stories, experiencing cultures, trying new food, discovering new music, and karaoke. A seasoned mover having lived in the Philippines and several U.S. states, he brings adaptability and enthusiasm to his work supporting students’ success and growth. As a member of HSPAA, he is excited to contribute through his passion for student development and open, inclusive engagement.

Rhea Barlin So
Board Member
Rhea Barlin So

Rhea Barlin So is an accomplished community organizer and cultural programmer dedicated to fostering inclusive public spaces, grassroots engagement, and cross cultural collaboration. She currently leads the Footprints of Boston summer activation at Brewer Fountain in Boston Common, where she curates everyday experiences that celebrate the city’s diversity through art, music, local entrepreneurship, and community partnerships.
Rhea holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing, providing her with a strong foundation in strategic planning, brand development, and community engagement. Her academic background complements her extensive hands-on experience in public programming and the nonprofit sector.
In addition to her current work, Rhea is an active member of the Harvard Square Phil-Am Alliance, where she advocates for Filipino-American culture and promotes community involvement through events, advocacy, and outreach initiatives.
Recognized for her collaborative approach, meticulous attention to detail, and deep rooted connections within the communities she serves, Rhea is passionate about transforming public spaces into environments that are joyful, inclusive, and truly reflective of the people who gather there.

Maya Johnson
Board Member
Maya Johnson

Maya Johnson is a dedicated entrepreneur, esthetician, and proud Filipina with a strong commitment to community, healing, and cultural representation. As the owner of Honey Lash Bar & Spa, she seamlessly integrates beauty, faith, and mental health to empower women to feel radiant both inside and out.
As a valued board member of HSPAA, Maya applies her spiritual foundation, business acumen, and passion for Asian culture to her initiatives. She is devoted to amplifying voices, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting mental health within the Asian community and beyond.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Maya finds tranquility in nature, prayer, and cherished moments with loved ones. She believes that beauty is a reflection of divine design and that every individual possesses a purpose deserving of recognition.
Members & Volunteers
Meet the newest members of the Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance Team

Katrina Uy
Member
Katrina Uy

Katrina Uy

Kurt-Michael Songcog
Member
Kurt-Michael Songcog

Kurt-Michael Songcog holds an M.S.Ed. in Higher Education from the University of Pennsylvania and a B.A. in Criminology, Law, and Society from UC Irvine. Originally from Queens, NY, he has a passion for supporting diverse student communities, drawing from rich experiences in intercultural communication, academic advising, and orientation. Kurt loves learning people’s stories, experiencing cultures, trying new food, discovering new music, and karaoke. A seasoned mover having lived in the Philippines and several U.S. states, he brings adaptability and enthusiasm to his work supporting students’ success and growth. As a member of HSPAA, he is excited to contribute through his passion for student development and open, inclusive engagement.

Rhea Barlin So
Board Member
Rhea Barlin So

Rhea Barlin So is an accomplished community organizer and cultural programmer dedicated to fostering inclusive public spaces, grassroots engagement, and cross cultural collaboration. She currently leads the Footprints of Boston summer activation at Brewer Fountain in Boston Common, where she curates everyday experiences that celebrate the city’s diversity through art, music, local entrepreneurship, and community partnerships.
Rhea holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing, providing her with a strong foundation in strategic planning, brand development, and community engagement. Her academic background complements her extensive hands-on experience in public programming and the nonprofit sector.
In addition to her current work, Rhea is an active member of the Harvard Square Phil-Am Alliance, where she advocates for Filipino-American culture and promotes community involvement through events, advocacy, and outreach initiatives.
Recognized for her collaborative approach, meticulous attention to detail, and deep rooted connections within the communities she serves, Rhea is passionate about transforming public spaces into environments that are joyful, inclusive, and truly reflective of the people who gather there.

Maya Johnson
Board Member
Maya Johnson

Maya Johnson is a dedicated entrepreneur, esthetician, and proud Filipina with a strong commitment to community, healing, and cultural representation. As the owner of Honey Lash Bar & Spa, she seamlessly integrates beauty, faith, and mental health to empower women to feel radiant both inside and out.
As a valued board member of HSPAA, Maya applies her spiritual foundation, business acumen, and passion for Asian culture to her initiatives. She is devoted to amplifying voices, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting mental health within the Asian community and beyond.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Maya finds tranquility in nature, prayer, and cherished moments with loved ones. She believes that beauty is a reflection of divine design and that every individual possesses a purpose deserving of recognition.

