Florida is home to a large number of immigrants and one of the largest growing communities is that of Filipinos. Much of this is because of the cruise ship business in Florida, with so many ships taking off from here to destinations around the world including popular routes to the Caribbean. Filipino workers have been manning cruise ships for decades, and those two facts have been important to the growth of the Filipino community in the state. In Jacksonville in particular there is the largest Filipino community, and here is how they are thriving in the Sunshine State.

Two Hubs

There are two main hubs in Jacksonville where there is a burgeoning Filipino community, both in Westside near Argyle Forest, and just across the river, north of the University of North Florida. Duval County has over 13,000 Filipinos living there alone, according to recent census data and they do in fact make up some 35% of the Asian community here.

Cruises, Medicine, and Hospitality

Whilst there are a number of Filipinos who have settled here who were working on cruise ships, medical training and working in the hospitality sector are also why so many have settled here. The US Navy has strong connections to the Philippines, and many Filipinos have used their experience on the seas to forge successful careers working on cruise ships.

Family Ties

Many cruise ship workers look to support their families back home. They will do this by bringing them across to live with them whenever possible and they also send money to the Philippines to support those who are unable to make the journey or obtain a visa.

Integrating With Ease

There are a number of factors that have enabled this Filipino community to integrate so easily. One of the biggest benefits they bring is their exceptional ability to speak English, which is taught from an early age in schools in the Philippines. Additionally, this is a nation that has long integrated well, with the Spanish, other Asian countries, and the USA. Evidence of this is clear in Filipino communities which work in harmony with the local culture. Whilst they will still look to maintain their cultural ties when they settle in Florida, opening restaurants and Filipino stores, living the American way has never been an issue.

Comparative Ambitions of Settlers

Working on cruise ships is often the first rung on the ladder for many Filipinos coming to the US. Research shows that they are by nature far more ambitious than their fellow Asians, and will look to attain high grades and climb the career ladder when they get the chance.

The Filipinos who have settled in Florida have contributed to the local economy and its diversity, and whilst they integrate seamlessly they still keep their own traditions alive. In reality, this community in Florida provides us with the perfect example of how immigration has positively impacted the American way of life.