As the Black Eyed Peas classic song goes…”Let’s Get It Started.”

The City of Carson got Filipino American History Month started by honoring Apl.de.ap with a ceremonial key to the city.

The City Council believes the multi-awarded musician and philanthropist, as well as his group the Black Eyed Peas, have been role models for the community, especially for the Filipinos who make a fifth of the estimated 100,000 Carson residents.

"I’m very proud and honored and Apl.de.ap is a voice for the Filipino community; and not just for the Filipino community he brings everyone together to celebrate," said Arleen Bocatija Ros, Carson City Council. 

"This is a true example of people doing something right. This group has touched this community. They’re home grown, they come home and they’re giving back to their community. That is very important," said Carson Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes.

Last June, Apl served as grand marshal and performed for the annual Philippine Independence Day Celebration, one of the largest and longest running Kalayaan celebrations in the region.

For local Filipino “Carsonites,” Apl has been a constant presence for the community.

"Apl.de.ap is one of the gems of our community. He provides service free of charge. He entertains and showcases our culture," said Alex Cainglet, chairman of Carson Parks and Rec. 

The Pampanga-born artist admits this is the second time he’s received the keys to a city, with the first being in Manila.

The key has a special meaning for him, as Carson played a role in the Black Eyed Peas history.

"Carson was one of the spots we used to break dance and practice, house parties and malls, that’s why it’s very, special," Apl said.

Apl is already making more plans to be back in Carson as he will hold a car show and adobo cook-off on October 12 as part of Filipino American History Month.

"Happy Filipino American History Month and this is the best place to start the first day.  ...I can’t wait to share some of the projects from Apl.de.ap Foundation that we’ve been working on from Philippines to here," he added. 

Now that Apl has received the ceremonial key to the city, Carson has unlocked its Filipino American History Month mode. For the next several weeks, through the month of October, there will be many festivities and activities celebrating Pinoy Pride.