Siquijor Protective Association, Inc.

On July 11, 2009, the Siquijor Protective Association, Inc. is having a seventieth anniversary celebration in Stockton at the Waterfront Hotel.

The Association began informally in 1936 responding to the financial needs of a fellow Siquijorian who had died from tuberculosis. He lacked the resources to facilitate the burial and the Siquijorians came together to contribute towards it.

Because of the need for assistance by individuals and families in catastrophic circumstances, a group of Siquijorians began to meet in Isleton to organize a club for the purpose of building a financial base to carry out the assistance program. The program focused on helping its members financially in time of illness or death.

They raised money through annual dues, product sales, membership fines, and fundraisers. The organization became incorporated on July 20, 1939 as a non-profit organization and became known as the "Siquijor Protective Association, Inc."

At its peak, there were about 400 members. After more than seventy years, it has 92 current members. Of the original members, Fortunata S. Olaivar (Viernes) remains a member.

The association's existence is a testament to the strong past and current leadership. It is a valuable and historical source of pride for Filipinos.