The proposal to establish a Filipinotown in Las Vegas is gaining momentum as the city’s 200,000-strong Filipino community continues to grow.

Advocates envision the district in Maryland Parkway as a cultural hub, celebrating Filipino heritage while supporting small businesses, events, and services tailored to the largest Asian American and Pacific Islander group in Las Vegas.

Community leaders believe it is time to create a space that honors their contributions and preserves their rich culture.

“It’s wonderful that we are allowed to have a designation and that’s one of the first things that I have thought about," said Rozita Lee. "The designation for the Filipinos and we chose Flamingo to Desert Inn. It’s short enough and long enough to start."

She pointed to the area around Seafood City as a hub for the Filipino community, where they can host events and foster a strong cultural presence. 

Lee believes the formal recognition would also honor Filipino contributions, boost local businesses, and strengthen community ties.

“This is a pride for the Filipino community," she added. "There are so many Filipinos living here. Let us be happy that Filipinos are being recognized.”

Some elected Fil-Am officials from other states have applauded the efforts.

“We definitely need this representation, so we are grateful that the state of Nevada will have a Filipinotown," said Artesia city councilmember Melissa Ramoso.

Tennessee's Fil-Am state lawmaker Justin Jones, meanwhile, said: “Nevada gives us the blueprint on what we want for this nation. You look here [and] you see multiracial democracy, you see what a vision of America should be.”

Filipino restaurant owner Paul Tejada believes a Filipinotown in Las Vegas is long overdue.

“It’s about time," he said. "Filipinos have been in this area for three decades now as far as restaurants, businesses, nurses, school teachers coming in this community and making it what it is now.”

Proponents said having a Filipinotown in Sin City could boost the economy by attracting tourists and supporting local entrepreneurs.

The proposal has received widespread support from local residents and organizations. The Clark County Commission office is currently discussing it.

If approved, Filipinotown could break ground as early as next year, marking a new chapter in Las Vegas’ commitment to celebrating its diverse cultural fabric.