Historic Filipinotown's eastern gateway is finally standing.
The archway, named Talang Gabay: Our Guiding Star, is just west of downtown Los Angeles. It spans Beverly Boulevard near the 1st Street Bridge and marks the eastern entrance into the neighborhood.
The archway was designed by Filipino American artists Eliseo Art Silva and Celestino Geronimo Jr. The gateway features several Filipino cultural symbols including a signature lantern known as a parol, the Gumamela flower and the Sarimanok bird.
Jessica Caloza with the Department of Public Works said it's taken nearly two decades to see the gateway installed.
“I was born in the Philippines, and we called L.A. home," Caloza said. "This is really a testament and a love letter to them to say that you're not only here in passing, but this is your home and you're welcome here.”
More than half a million Filipinos live in greater Los Angeles. But Caloza said it’s a symbol for many groups of people.
“It's not just for Filipinos or Asian Americans, it’s really a monument to all immigrants who call Los Angeles home, who come here every single day like my family did,” Caloza said.
Finishing touches to the gateway will continue into the weekend.
The installation comes ahead of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which begins in May. An official community unveiling is expected next month.
