San Francisco, CA - September 10, 2024 - SOMA Pilipinas Filipino Cultural Heritage District unveils the restoration of the first mural depicting the history of Filipino immigration to the Americas, named “Ang Lipi ni Lapulapu”, which translates to “The Descendents of Lapulapu”. The restoration of Ang Lipi ni Lapulapu will be celebrated as part of the Community Block Party during the SOMA Sunday Streets on October 13, 2024 from 12-5PM. Come by the Heroes Village (at Lapulapu and Bonifacio Street) to see the 40-year old mural fully restored for the first time, and enjoy photo opportunities with the MAHAL Jeepney, community performances, inaugural 2024 Parol making workshop, and a taste of Philippine ice cream flavors from the SOMA Pilipinas Sorbetes cart.

SOMA Pilipinas, the city and state recognized Filipino Cultural Heritage District proves to be a leader in revitalizing downtown San Francisco by creating a new narrative and cultural boom through innovative economic recovery strategies rooted in equity, community, collaboration and cultural arts.  

Just in the last year, ten new Filipino murals, public art pieces, and colorful crosswalks have been completed with many more coming in the near future. Three new Filipino-owned restaurants (Mestiza, Sarap Shop, and Izzy and Wooks) have opened in downtown just in the last two months and are already receiving rave reviews. Earlier this month SOMA Pilipinas launched the inaugural Mahal Jeepney tour of the cultural district.