Fil-Am influencer Bretman Rock Sacayanan Laforga (commonly known as Bretman Rock) garnered national recognition from Hawaii’s House of Representatives, noting his catalytic contributions to the nation’s residents and the Filipino-American community.
The West Oahu native who migrated from the Philippines at the age of seven, visited the Hawaii State Capitol last Wednesday, March 13, 2024, receiving lei and a certificate from the legislature's Filipino caucus, according to reports.
Gov. Josh Green and Lt. Gov. Sylvia were on-site to congratulate the 25-year-old, motioning their appreciation for his influence and his ability to live out an “authentic” lifestyle and constantly showcase his genuine self.
“Mahalo for all you do to inspire people from around the world and especially Hawaii's keiki to not only be proud of their cultural heritage but to be their true authentic self,” mentioned Green.
“Not only are you able to use social media as a tool for good, but you’re able to inspire people who don’t often get the spotlight. Your breaking of barriers and success are truly commendable and I’m so proud that you’re an ambassador of aloha and from Hawaii for the world,” he added.
Rock’s full-booked afternoon consisted of a Hawaii State Legislature Filipino Caucus meeting, where he was tasked to preside, presented a gavel as a token of appreciation, and greeted members of the House of Representatives. As a Filipino immigrant, he shared his experiences as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, as those in attendance celebrated his courage and uniqueness.
“Bretman, your journey is a testament to the power of dreams and the resilience of the human spirit. You have overcome obstacles and defied expectations, blazing a trail for others to follow,” said Representative Darius Kila.
Following his Vine-YouTube creator distinction, Rock starred in a self-titled reality television show “MTV’s Following” Bretman Rock,” was recognized as the first queer male to appear on the cover of Playboy Magazine, and released his “You’re That Bitch” memoir published by HarperCollins.
