Children’s Book
About the Book
In the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine, one dish stands out as a true masterpiece—sinigang. With its vibrant flavors and comforting warmth, sinigang has captivated the hearts and taste buds of countless individuals, earning its rightful place as one of the most beloved dishes in the Philippines and around the world. From the first spoonful to the last, sinigang offers a symphony of tastes that is nothing short of wonderful.
Leo’s family has a special sinigang recipe called sinigiggles. Eating sinigiggles brings their family much comfort and delight. It’s a meal that can’t be rushed. As they take their first bites, something magical happens. Conversations flow, laughter fills the room, and a sense of warmth wraps around the family like a cozy blanket. In these moments, the dinner table becomes a sacred space—a sanctuary of understanding and empathy.
Mom serves sinigiggles for dinner the night before Leo ventures off to college—a moment they have anticipated with equal parts joy and a hint of sadness. Everyone in the family, including Luna, their sweet pup, is feeling a mixture of excitement, pride, and a tinge of melancholy. Mom and Dad, looking upon Leo, see a young man ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. They are proud of the incredible young man he has become. Yet, a touch of apprehension lingers in their hearts—a recognition that this departure signifies the beginning of a new phase in their family’s life.
Amidst these conflicting emotions, Leo is eager to discover the transformative power that lies within this journey.
Publication Date: May 2023
Publisher: Kuwentuhan Books
Available on Amazon
Signed copies are available at:
The Filipino School of NY and NJ
Tropical Hut Restaurant, Old Bridge, NJ
Book Club
Boston Filipino American Book Club
Date: August 27, 2023
What an honor to be invited by the Boston Filipino American Book Club (BFAB) to discuss Sinigiggles! I was trying to hold back tears hearing how our story reminded people of the sweet, ordinary life of sharing home-cooked meals and marking milestones as a family. Thank you, Bren Bataclan and Grace Talusan, for continuing to nourish the BFAB community. Thank you to BFAB members for your thoughtful words and for giving us so much love. 
It was so great that Reg and the kids were also able to join!
School Visit
Glen Landing Middle School
Location: Gloucester Township, NJ
Date: October 26, 2023
I love 12-year-olds and their enthusiasm for life. I love how they want to test their independence but still have a hint of hesitation when using their voices. They are so precious. 
I spent the whole day with over 200 6th graders at Glen Landing Middle School. I read Sinigiggles and we talked about celebrating life’s milestones like moving up to middle school and allllll the emotions that come with it. They asked questions about writing this book and if I was writing another one.
At the end of each of the 5 periods, I asked the students to write down what reminds them of home. They didn’t hesitate to share with me what home meant to them:
“Notes my mom gives me in my lunches”
“Safe”
“The smell of pasta”
“Basketball court”
“Home is my grandma’s special chicken and rice.”
“My baby brother Christopher”
“My bed”
“Family”
“My friend’s house”
“Rice”
“Being with my dad and dog reminds me of home.”
“My dog Leo”
“Love”
Thank you to Glen Landing’s Media Specialist, Kelly DiGirolamo for inviting me today! And that banner is 
Community Events
Pasko in America: The Philippine Christmas Experience
Location: American Dream Mall, Rutherford, NJ
Date: December 16, 2023
Heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate Pasko in America at the American Dream Mall! 
Thank you for the kind invitation from the Filipino School of NY and NJ and Fiesta in America. Loved doing readings and book signing with the talented kid lit author and illustrator Lynnor Bontigao (check out Sari-Sari Summers) and meeting NY Times best-selling illustrator Nina Mata (she illustrated LeBron’s children’s books!).
Special thanks to sis Genevieve for lending me her terno and Nancy and Penny for making my study and book cover shirts. 
Recruited for my study at community events throughout the weekend and I got to witness how much Filipinos REALLY LOVE Christmas!
Now I’m in my pambahay comfy sweats and will sleep soundly for the next 12 hours. 
AAPI Self-Care Event
Location: Unisphere-Flushing Meadows, Queens, NY
Date: October 1, 2023
Barrio Fest
Location: Bergenfield, NJ
Date: October 1, 2023
What a gift to have Sinigiggles be part of this year’s Barrio Fest! I’m so grateful to have had the chance to share our story with the community. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth to say hi!
When our kids were younger, there were hardly any Filipino American books available that I could read to them. Yesterday, I met parents who were looking to build their diverse libraries for their children and have stories that reflected their experiences and their families.
I met so many titas who bought the book for their pamangkins. I met teachers who want to add our book to their classroom and school libraries! Seeing people’s excitement for our children’s book about family and sinigang was so heartwarming.
So great to meet fellow authors Sophia N. Lee, Lynnor Bontigao, and Kathryn Serrano! Go check out their amazing books!
We ate the yummiest pansit and lumpia from Filipino food truck Twelve Truck. Of course, a Filipino party is never complete without dancing, thanks to The Studio Ligaya! Connected with AAPI Montclair and learned about their work and dedication to the community. Our bellies and hearts are full. 
I couldn’t have done this event without my hype crew: Reg, Leah, and my mom! My brother Justin for being my marketing consultant 
And my FYLPRO sisters Genevieve, Michele, and Agnes for supporting me from afar. Gen, thanks for letting me borrow your terno from Lola Weavers
Grateful to Professional Filipino American Youth and The Filipino School of New York & New Jersey for the gracious invitation. 
Thank you for bringing the community together.
Thank you for bringing the community together.HAPPY FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH! 
Media Coverage
Rutgers Today
Date: October 25, 2023
Full story here: School of Nursing Professor Highlights Filipino American Experience in New Children’s Book
Filipino Young Leaders Program
Date: June 27, 2023
