May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Los Angeles. Communities of Asian and Pacific Islander origin have been part of our city’s heritage since it’s founding and through our history their contributions have been an integral part of the growth and success of Los Angeles. LADOT is proud to celebrate AAPI heritage month through the highlighting of landmarks and individuals that have and continue to shape our city.
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AAPI Spotlight -- Kevin Ocubillo
Kevin Ocubillo currently works in the Transportation Planning + Policy as a Transportation Planning Associate II. In getting to know Mr. Ocubillo, our communications team have provided questions and received responses below, as related to his heritage and journey to LADOT. 
What's the story of how you and/or your family came to Los Angeles? Are you multi-generational Angelenos or did you arrive more recently?
I am a first generation Filipino-American. My parents emigrated from the Philippines in the late 70's. My mom had just graduated high school and accompanied my lolo (tagalog for grandfather) on a business trip to LA. Upon conclusion of the trip, she decided she wanted to stay here in America. My dad joined the US Navy where he served for several years as a mechanical technician. He retained his citizenship through the service he completed. Once he was out they settled in Northeast LA and have been there ever since.
When did you discover or decide that you wanted to work in Transportation?
I was always interested in public spaces and the ways in which they frame our lives. Our streets are fascinating because they're simultaneously intimate and ubiquitous. Our streets are places where everyone comes together out of necessity and by choice- they are dynamic places of commerce, social interaction and peaceful assembly. LADOT has jurisdiction over how our streets are designed and for too long they've served the singular purpose of moving cars when there's so much more they can be. I'm interested in creating vibrant, joyful and accessible public spaces!
AAPI Heritage Month in Los Angeles covers many different diverse communities in Los Angeles. How do you view the history and present story of your family's heritage and how it relates to the broader community and Los Angeles as a whole?
I am extremely proud to be a first generation Filipino-American especially in Los Angeles. Filipinos along with families of Spanish, Mexican and African descent were part of the original pobladores who settled Los Angeles in 1781. Today, LA is home to one of the largest Filipino populations in the world and we are thriving here! That's attributed to our resilience as Filipinos but also only possible by standing in solidarity throughout the years with our Asian, Black and brown cousins. Being Filipino-American, like being an Angeleno, means embracing diversity and celebrating the various cultural legacies. Diversity is what makes us strong and together we persist for a better life.