WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a heartfelt celebration of a remarkable life spanning over a century, Filipino-American Evangeline “Vangie” Paredes was honored by community leaders, dignitaries, and loved ones as she marked her 109th birthday over the weekend.
Born on July 26, 1916, in Brooklyn, New York, Paredes has lived through two world wars, seven pandemics, and witnessed 20 U.S. presidencies. Her legacy, rooted in government service and community activism, continues to inspire generations of Filipino Americans and beyond.
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser led the tributes, commending Paredes for her lifelong service and unwavering advocacy for the unheard. In an official certificate of recognition, Bowser lauded her as “a fierce matriarch and beautiful woman through and through,” and extended the collective greetings of over 700,000 D.C. residents.
Paredes was also formally recognized by Fil-Am leader Ben de Guzman, who presented her with a certificate declaring her the oldest living resident of Washington, D.C.
Surrounded by family and friends, including her 102-year-old sister Edith Fallan, Paredes celebrated with grace and gratitude. Photos from the event capture joyful moments and a legacy that stretches back to her service under President Manuel L. Quezon during World War II.
Throughout her lifetime, Paredes served not only as secretary to President Quezon, but also worked with diplomatic legend Carlos P. Romulo and later, as a secretary at the Pentagon for 30 years. A proud alumna of George Washington University, she served the Philippine government from 1936 to 1957 and later held a key position as a public relations officer at the Philippine Embassy.
Her father, Tomas Rulloda Abellera, was a Filipino Navy serviceman during World War I, and her mother, Francisca Estrada, a translator from Asturias, Spain, once worked on Wall Street. Paredes married Juanito Paredes in 1941, a relative of Quentin B. Paredes, the Philippine Resident Commissioner to Washington, D.C.
Even after her retirement, Vangie Paredes never slowed down. For over four decades, she remained active as a volunteer with AARP and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Auxiliary, tirelessly supporting veterans and their families. She was also instrumental in founding the Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center in the District.
During her 108th birthday last year, she shared this advice with well-wishers:
“Volunteer, when you can. Use your instincts. Do your best and always find ways to help others.”
Her wisdom, spirit, and unwavering service continue to be a beacon of inspiration across generations.
Original Source:
“Fil-Am celebrates 109th birthday, honored in Washington DC”
Published on USA Inquirer. Retrieved August 2025.
By: Bing Cardenas Branigin – @inquirerdotnet
Photo Credits: Contributed photos courtesy of the original USA Inquirer article
