2024 TOFSA Awardee

LYNDON DUANO
A COMMUNITY LEADER AND ADVOCATE

Lyndon Duano was born on July 11, 1964, in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. In 1969, his family moved to the Philippines, where he spent his formative years until they migrated to the United States on February 17, 1974. Settling in San Antonio, Texas, Lyndon quickly adapted to his new environment and began establishing roots in his community.

Lyndon attended Edison High School, where he made his mark as dedicated athlete on the football team. His hard work contributed to the team's success, culminating in the San Antonio ISD 31-5A District Championship in 1981. Following high school, he joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve, serving from 1983 to 1988, which instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and commitment to service.

Lyndon has been an active member of the Filipino American community in San Antonio for decades. He joined the Filipino American Dance Troupe in 1974 and served as its chal an and coordinator from 1989 to 2020, fostering cultural pride and community engagement through dance and performance. His leadership extended to the Filipino American Association of San Antonio, where he held various positions, including vice president and president, further promoting Filipino heritage and community involvement.

In addition to his involvement in the dance troupe, Lyndon played a significant role in the establishment of the Santo Nino Church. From 1991 to 2001, he assisted his father, a civil engineer, in acquiring land for the church and contributed to the design of its front entrance, gift shop, and community hall, showcasing his skills and dedication to enhancing his community's spiritual and cultural landscape.

Lyndon has been a vibrant participant in local cultural events, contributing to the Texas Folklife Festival from 1975 to 2019 and the Texas State Fair from 2001 to 2019. His passion for sports led him to become a commissioner for the Filipino Basketball League in San Antonio, where he served from 1992 to 2000 and resumed his role in 2010. His commitment to fostering sports and community engagement reflects his dedication to promoting teamwork and cultural pride.

Professionally, Lyndon has dedicated 23 years of service to the City of San Antonio as a Special Project Manager in the Public Works department. His academic background in civil engineering, having earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas San Antonio, has equipped him with the skills necessary to oversee important community projects that enhance the infrastructure and quality of life in San Antonio.

Throughout his life, Lyndon Duano has exemplified community leadership, cultural advocacy, and professional dedication. His contributions to the Filipino American community and beyond highlight his commitment to fostering cultural pride, unity, and progress. As he continues to serve and lead, Lyndon remains an inspiring figure, advocating for the values of service, inclusivity, and cultural heritage in San