Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas (back row, center) and Consul General of the Philippines Leo Herrera Lim (right of Pappas) celebrate Philippine Independence Day in Pappas’ downtown office with a reception and awards ceremony.  Awards were presented to Philippine American community leaders for contributions to their culture and heritage.  “These individuals and organizations deserve to be honored and recognized for their outstanding humanitarian services,” Pappas says. Pappas welcomes children who belong to the Transfiguration Dance Troupe, which performs Filipino folk dances.  The troupe dances at functions and events at least once a month, including at the Philippine Independence Day celebration at the Daley Plaza and at the Children’s Museum at Navy Pier for the Passport to the Philippines presentation. From left, front row:  Kristen Sadorra, Jade Ortiz, Melody Beltran, Jocelyn Beltran, Armani Ortiz, Denise Gomez, Katherine De Lara.  Second row:  Derrick De Lara, Danielle Gomez, Aubrie Sese (held by Pappas) and Meldrick Dizon.