As a career diplomat with over 20 years of experience, Consul General Arman R. Talbo joins the Philippine Consulate in Honolulu to continue his work serving the Filipino community in Hawai’i while promoting bilateral relationships through community outreach.

The Philippine Consulate in Honolulu is one of the first consulates to open in the United States, strategically located due to the strong bilateral ties between the Philippines and the U.S. and a significant presence of overseas Filipinos. As the Consul General explained, “In areas where there are many, many Filipinos, more or less, we will open a consulate just so that we are able to serve their needs.”

The consulate provides essential services to Filipinos, including “documentation, passports, authentification, like when they need a special power of attorney or when a Filipino is born here.” The consulate also helps American-born Filipinos obtain dual citizenship, with full rights as a Filipino national to own property and travel freely whenever they please.

The Consulate is also organizing the Very Important Pinoy or “V.I.P.” Tour Program, where Americans, both Filipino and non-Filipino, can experience unique aspects of Filipino culture and history in different destinations in the Philippines each year. Set for July 6-15, 2025, this year’s program coordinates with the government to explore Manila, Ilocos and Palawan.

The program incorporates a diverse selection of activities, from visiting historic sites and churches to visiting Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines. Though boarding costs vary depending on what you’re looking for, the activities are meant to appeal to travelers of all ages.