Background
Jessie Lichauco was born in Isla de los Pinos, Cuba on January 10, 1912. Her father settled in Cuba after the Spanish–American War She was later raised in Florida by her relatives after she was orphaned as a young girl.
Jessie Lichauco was born in Isla de los Pinos, Cuba on January 10, 1912. Her father settled in Cuba after the Spanish–American War She was later raised in Florida by her relatives after she was orphaned as a young girl.
Early While studying in Washington District of Columbia, Jessie met Marcial P. Lichuaco, a Filipino lawyer, working for the Osmena-Roxas (OSROX) Philippine Independence Mission. She came to the Philippines upon invitation by Marcial Lichuaco in 1933. Tomas Chapel, becoming the first couple to get married under the newly constructed chapel.
Since then, Jessie Lichuaco resided in the Philippines.
Lichuaco joined the Asociacion de Damas de Filipinas and devoted work to the Settlement House, which was ran by the association. After the war she continued her devotion towards the Settlement House and became its president for nine years.
Lichuaco is also one of the founders of the Red Feather Agency, which later known as the Community Chest, an organization which raises funds for member charity organizations. Lichuaco also supported about 100 youth in completing their education in her own capacity.
Jessie Lichuaco served as the Ambassador"s hostess representing the Philippines in international organizations and events.
The Ambassador"s home in Palace Green was open to Filipino business people, students, workers and tourists. After the death of Jessie Lichuaco"s husband in 1971, Lichuaco spent a few years in the United States. She opened her home in Massachusetts to Filipino scholars and students needing a place to settle.
She was granted Philippine citizenship through Republic Acting Number.
10356 which was signed into law by President Benigno Aquino III. She was cited in the law for her social contributions to the country, adopting the Philippines as her home, speaking the Filipino language and for embracing Filipino culture.