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PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
Congratulations Larry & Marietta Bustamante & Val & & Edith Doctolero.
“Congratulations - Larry & Marietta Bustamante & Val & Edith Doctolero
B2B Enterprises Thinking Beyond Box
Cecilia C. Villafuerte
Advertising • Promotions Graphics • Printing
808.780.4985
94-404 Punono Street, Mililani, HI 96789 Email: b2bfajardo@gmail.com bernafajardo@gmail.com Tel: (808) 342-8090; (808) 623-3062
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Cecilia.Villafuerte@SNMC.com SNMC.com/LO/CeciliaVillafuerte/ Filipino (Tagalog and Ilocano) State License: HI-377704
CECILIA VILLAFUERTE Rotary Club of Ewa Beach Charter President - 2018
Congratulations Larry & Marietta Bustamante & Val & Edith Doctolero Lynne Gutierrez 2020-2021 FCCH Secretary
Congratulations Larry & Marietta Bustamante 2019 Parents of the Year Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii
Cesar & Bernadette Dario Fajardo
Congratulations Larry & Marietta Bustamante & Val & Edith Doctolero
ROSE GALANTO FCCH President-Elect
Congratulations Larry & Marietta Bustamante!
Congratulations Larry & Marietta Bustamante The Rotary Club of Ewa Beach at their 2020 Installation Event with Current President James Oda. Cecilia was Chartered President - 2018 followed by Paul Alimbuyao - 2019
Rotary Club of Ewa Beach
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 3
PUBLISHERS Mary Llanos Cordero David Cordero DIRECTOR OF DESIGN Armando Dela Cruz Busmente PRODUCTION MANAGER Alice Llanos Busmente PHOTOGRAPHERS/GRAPHICS Amanda Busmente Brandon dela Cruz Gabe de Liso James Ramos Mark Salondaka Alex Vergara COLUMNISTS Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq Vince Baldemor Nancy Bernal Hilda Herrera Borja Cesar Bonilla Bernadette D. Fajardo Amelia Casamina Cabatu Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao Valerie Joseph Grace Manipol Larson Kristian Lei Zeny Muyot Angie Santiago Jordan Segundo Perfecto Yasay Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim Randy Cortez Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus Brandon dela Cruz Imelda Gasmen Veronika Geronimo Leo Gozar Ben Gutierrez Lalaine Ignao Kathleen Lee Carmela Minaya Gladys Quinto Marrone Gladys Menor John Pagaragan Paola Rodelas Sandra Sagisi Nicole Velasco Benedith Gudoy Ventura Michi Villaruz NEIGHBOR ISLAND BUREAU Maui Kit Zulueta Jeremy Zane Big Island Jane Clement Dr. Margarita Hopkins Grace Manipol Larson Kauai Virgie Cruzada Liza Trinidad Marynell Valenzuela ADVERTISING SALES Marivic Aldaya Rudy Bautista Annabel Cabebe Lydia Kamiya Grace Manipol Larson Florence Tan McCollom Joni Redick-Yundt Marynel Valenzuela CIRCULATION Florence Tan (Oahu) Ron Oshiro (Leeward Oahu) David Cordero (Maui) Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai) Milli Asuncion (Big Island) LEGAL COUNSEL Alfredo Evangelista, Esq. Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.)
THE FIL-AM COURIER is published twice a month by OAHU RELOCATION SERVICES PO Box 17753 Honolulu, Hi. 96817
Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and other material submitted. Reproduction of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am courier is forbidden without written permission. All photos submitted become the property of the Fil-Am Courier.
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By MARY LLANOS CORDERO
In pandemic times, Valentine’s will be celebrated differently especially when pursuing a love interest. Love relationships may develop from a long-distance since we are still practicing socialdistancing. Especially for the single people who live alone, there’s that romantic yearning so they would likely look for partners at dating websites, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Yes, love in the time of coronavirus for the young people is emotionally devastating, thrilling but also exhausting. It can be pure and innocent especially for the young generation or the young at hearts. This sense of emotional purity and deep connection is, perhaps, more salient for most people in quarantine than ever before. For most of last year, we’ve lived in closed-off clusters, interacting primarily with those we already know and trust. The thrilling part to find a true love these days maybe challenging especially when we’re all masked up but it can also be exciting and mysterious. Falling in love with someone all masked up can be quite a risk. Why? We really can’t see the person’s facial expressions or emotions. What is the risk, then, of putting your feelings on the line for someone you barely know? The risk is high that’s why a pandemic crush is simply a chaotic byproduct of these chaotic times. Whether you’re single, married or heartbroken, there’s always something to celebrate. During this time of the pandemic, many of us have been very fortunate to spend the time we have with our loved ones, developing stronger relationships and rekindling ones we had once forgotten. We are reminded that life is short and to
cherish those we most love. We have slowed down and made time to take better care of ourselves and honoring what it means to practice self-love. For two couples in our local Filipino community, they have truly embodied what it means to love and what it means to spread that love to the community. Larry and Marietta Bustamante
Larry and Marietta enjoy playing a participative role in their lives, assisting with their family’s work or school projects, contributing philosophies on work ethic and productivity, and even sharing an occasional tip on history assignments and class presentations. Larry and Marietta are great coaches, not only imparting constructive feedback and lessons, but also supporting their
of Kapolei can attest that raising kids is one of the toughest and most fulfilling jobs in the world. Their keen focus on serving as good role models, providing structure and supervision, and teaching responsibility and respect has guided their children towards a wide range of successful experiences. These dedicated parents have also instilled the importance of structure, providing love and guidance to their family. They’ve cultivated a nurturing environment for their children to pursue their aspirations, encouraging perseverance to achieve success in their lives. They lead by example in the community and at the workplace, emphasizing good moral and ethical behavior in every interaction with colleagues, the community, and friends. Together, Larry and Marietta have internalized and embraced
children and grandchildren in making thoughtful decisions. Through their remarkable experiences, Larry and Marietta have developed a strongknit compassionate family, motivated to take the initiative, assist those in need, and improve the social fabric of our diverse community. As for Edith and Valeriano “Val” Doctolero, the couple of 49 years never fought and are a model of what true love looks like. The two are the owners of Sunrise Leis & Flowers Hawaii, an establishment that has been part of the Kalihi community for over three decades. Edith and Val started their own lei and flower shop in 1988. She mentioned that she would have Val stay home at the beginning of their business journey, while her in-laws helped with the shop. Their store grew over time to employ seven workers. Due to the pandemic, they
their long-term commitment of effective parenting -- and now effective grandparenting for their seven wonderful grand-children.
currently have four employees along with themselves. “In a business, there’s got to be a lot of patience and understanding,
especially since you’ll run into some rude people. You’ve got to be down to earth. Give customers their money’s worth; give good service. We’re so blessed that we’ve stayed around for this long – 33 years! – because of what we do. If I complete a funeral wreath for example, and I see that it’s not nice, I’ll place some more flowers in it to make it beautiful.” As for marriage: “in a very successful marriage, understanding is number one. If I know my husband is mad, I won’t bother him. We don’t yell at each other. Honestly, we don’t even fight, yell or curse. When my kids were young, Val and I would play-fight, and our kids would just laugh at us.” Love and relationships are no easy task and require hard work from the individuals. But once you find the perfect balance, life becomes just that much more beautiful and you have the ability to spread that same energy with the world around you. As the whole world celebrates the month of love, let’s crush the virus in the air and replace it with Love. Indeed, love is in the air and let’s continue to spread it all around not only this month but throughout the year. May we have a safe, colorful and romantic Valentine’s Day!
Mary Llanos Cordero
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
ABOUT OUR COVER
Larry & Marietta Bustamante have dedicated their lives serving as active role models to their three wonderful children: Jose, Patrick and Hilary. By setting good examples, they raised their children, taught them responsibility, and respect for others. They are a shining example of a perfect couple who withstood the test of time and that’s why they have earned the title Parents of the Year in 2019.
Cover concept by Armando Busmente of ACB Graphics. Armand can be reached at abusmente@ymail.com
COVER STORY BY:
Larry & Marietta Bustamante PCFH 2019 Parents of the Year
By JOSE BUSTAMANTE Jose Bustamante is the eldest of three children of Larry and Marietta Bustamante. Jose graduated from Moanalua High School in Honolulu, then moved to New York to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point. Upon graduation, Jose served in the United States Army on various exciting assignments throughout the world. He completed his 9-year career as a Captain in the Military Intelligence Branch, then attended Columbia University in New York City, earning a master’s degree in real estate development. He transitioned to the civilian sector and has been developing large-scale commercial real estate projects for the last 16 years. Jose and his beautiful wife Nikki have two energetic boys Ben and Max, and reside in Cupertino, California (San Francisco Bay Area).
Our world comprises all
character, responsibility, and ethics
Larry and Marietta Bustamante of
respect has guided their children
types of leaders in many diverse
are keys to maintaining stability and
Kapolei will attest, raising kids is one
towards a wide range of successful
organizations, whether they’re in
prosperity in our communities. One
of the toughest and most fulfilling
experiences.
government, education, business,
fundamental and most important
jobs in the world. Their keen focus
and health industries. As we know
influence in fostering these primary
on serving as good role models,
early on as parents that serving as
from history and recent global events,
pillars is effective parenting,
providing structure and supervision,
active role models and setting good
the leadership pillars of strong
especially at a very young age. As
and teaching responsibility and
examples would be key influences
Larry and Marietta believed
in developing their children Jose, Patrick, and Hilary. Originally from Tagudin, Ilocos Sur in the Philippines, Larry and Marietta were raised in strong families with a deep lineage of supporting health, safety, and welfare initiatives for Filipino communities. Larry dedicated 5 years serving in the U.S. Navy on various missions around the world, then transitioned to a 32-year career in the construction industry Second child Patrick with wife Lorelei and children Damian, Desmond, Daniel, Maisie and Pearson taken during the holidays 2020.
building iconic landmarks in Hawaii.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 5
Marietta devoted 31 years with the American Cancer Society, working as Executive Director of significant fundraising and support programs for cancer patients in Hawaii. She later transitioned to SP Plus Corporation managing premier facilities in Honolulu since 2006. They lead by example in the community and at the workplace, emphasizing good moral and ethical behavior in every
The Bustamante Ohana’s 2019 annual family picture.
interaction with colleagues, the
programs for the State of California.
volunteered in over 70 fundraising
community, and friends.
Hilary and her boyfriend JR, a
events for the American Cancer
These dedicated parents
successful immigration attorney in
Society, The Rotary Club, and
have also instilled the importance
Los Angeles, enjoy keeping the
Habitat for Humanity to support
of structure, providing love and
family connected through video tech
important community programs.
guidance to their family. They’ve
and fun events to celebrate family
cultivated a nurturing environment
milestones.
have internalized and embraced
for their children to pursue
Above all, Larry and Marietta
their long-term commitment of
their aspirations, encouraging
have invested their time teaching the
effective parenting -- and now
perseverance to achieve success
values of responsibility and respect in
effective grandparenting for their
in their lives. Jose received his
developing their children. With a 31-
seven wonderful grandchildren.
bachelor’s degree from the United
year career (1976 to 2006) with the
Larry and Marietta enjoy playing
States Military at West Point and
American Cancer Society in Hawaii
a participative role in their lives,
master’s degree from Columbia
and over 14 years (2005 to present)
assisting with their family’s work
University.
with the Rotary Club in Kapolei
or school projects, contributing
He served as an Army Captain
and Ewa Beach, Marietta has been
philosophies on work ethic and
and is now a real estate developer
instrumental in instilling a strong
productivity, and even sharing an
in the San Francisco Bay Area.
sense of community service within
occasional tip on history assignments
Jose is married to Nikki, a
her family since 1976. Additionally,
and class presentations. Larry and
treasury manager and CPA, and they
both Larry and Marietta have played
Marietta are great coaches, not only
have two children Ben (9) and Max
key leadership roles in advancing
imparting constructive feedback and
(6) who attend Eaton Elementary
organizational objectives for the St.
lessons, but also supporting their
School in Cupertino. Patrick received
Augustine’s School in Ilocos Sur and
children and grandchildren in making
his bachelor’s degree from the
the Hawaii Tagudinians Association.
thoughtful decisions. Through their
University of Hawaii at Manoa and is
They embody the values of selfless
remarkable experiences, Larry and
now a senior construction manager
commitment, social engagement,
Marietta have developed a strong-
building premium projects in Hawaii.
and community outreach, and have
knit compassionate family, motivated
Patrick is married to Lore, a dental
molded those principles in their
to take the initiative, assist those in
hygienist, and they have five children
children who all have participated in
need, and improve the social fabric
Damian (21), Desmond (20), Daniel
impactful volunteer events over the
of our diverse community.
(18), Maisie (4), and Pearson (2).
years. The Bustamante family has
Together, Larry and Marietta
Oldest son Jose with wife Nikki and sons Ben and Max.
Third child Hilary with boyfriend JR Catalan taken on the island of Kauai
Damian, Desmond, and Daniel attend the University of Hawaii at Manoa, while their cute little sister Maisie attends Seagull Schools in Kapolei and baby brother Pearson keeps his grandparents company at home. Hilary received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from California State University at Dominguez Hills, and serves as a program manager implementing critical employment and economic development Larry & Marietta with children - Jose, Patrick & Hilary
Names of grandchildren - Larry and Marietta with their grandchildren: Damian, Desmond, Daniel, Ben, Max, Maisie and Pearson.
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
ABOUT OUR COVER
What’s the secret to a long marriage? For Val & Edith Doctolero, don’t fight with each other! Yes, they may have a few miscommunications and misunderstandings but they never allow this to escalate into a fight. Their 49 years of marriage is a testament to that. This couple love, respect and cherish one another until death do they part. Their story is as colorful and vibrant as their flowers.
Cover concept by Armando Busmente of ACB Graphics. Armand can be reached at abusmente@ymail.com
COVER STORY BY:
By KATHLEEN LEE Kathleen Lee was born on a military
“We’ve never fought,” Edith
Hawaii, an establishment that has
Valeriano (“you can call him Val,”
we were ever going to meet again.
Doctolero stated, as she described
been part of the Kalihi community
according to Edith) was born in
We thought, ‘this isn’t even love,’ you
her relationship with her husband of
for over three decades.
Honolulu and came to the Philippines
know what I’m saying?” She said,
49 years, Valeriano. The two are the
Edith was born and raised
during his youth. Their love story
laughing lightly at the statement.
owners of Sunrise Leis & Flowers
in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, while
started at Narvacan Provincial High
School, where the couple met. (side
his cousin – and Val and I ended
note: according to Edith, the school
up meeting up again at Tamashiro
name may have changed). “High
(Market)! After that, we saw each
school sweethearts! Can you believe
other every day. That was in 1971;
that!” Edith exclaimed during our
we ended up getting married in
conversation.
1972.”
“His friend was the boyfriend of
“When I came to Hawaii, I found
When I asked how she knew
Air Force base in the Philippines and
my best friend,” Edith responded,
he was “The One,” Edith responded:
spent a portion of her childhood in
when asked how Val came into her
“it’s just like a magnet, you know. If
Baguio and Manila, respectively. She
orbit. She said the relationship at
it’s really meant for you, it’ll just be
that time was casual. According to
attracted to you. I believe in that.”
Edith, her parents were strict, and
that family dynamic “didn’t allow for
Clifford, in 1975. Their second
any fooling around.”
son Edward was born three years
nonprofit, and hospitality sectors
After high school, Edith
after. Both of their children are now
since then. She currently runs her own
remained in the Philippines and
married, and Edith stated that she
consulting and writing business.”
finished college at the University
and Val have five grandchildren.
of Manila, graduating with a BSEd
“We have only one granddaughter;
degree, while Val returned to
the rest are boys.” As far as terms of
Honolulu after graduation.
endearment go, according to Edith, “I
just call Val ‘dad.’ Our grandchildren
considers San Jose, California, her hometown, where she attended SJSU and studied Political Science. She made Hawaii her home in late 2009, and has worked in the government,
They lost contact with each
The couple had their first son,
other. “We weren’t really serious…
call us ‘mama and papa.’”
I was in college, he was here (in
Hawaii), and we didn’t even know
Flowers Hawaii come into existence?
So how did Sunrise Leis &
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 7
“I didn’t really have any idea that
I would be in this business. I started working at the lei stand at the airport after I got married.” Edith worked for Lillian Cameron, owner of Arthur’s Lei Stand No. 7 at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). “My boss was so good. After my kids
mainland for our high school reunion
not nice, I’ll place some more flowers
yell at each other. Honestly, we don’t
– it was so fun!” The other times they
in it to make it beautiful.”
sweet things every day, because
got older, I told myself, ‘I can’t be only working for somebody – I want
even fight, yell or curse. When my
“Don’t cheat. Be honest. You’ve
we stay together every day.” Edith
left work were for funerals for their
kids were young, Val and I would
to start my own business.’ You can’t
siblings. “No vacation – we’re so in
got to be honest to people. Because
repeated this statement for what
play-fight, and our kids would just
progress working for someone else.
love with our job, I think.”
once you cheat somebody, it goes
I counted as a fourth or fifth time
laugh at us.” Even their kids don’t
around – the news goes around so
during our conversation: “he’s one
So I told my boss I wanted to open
curse, according to Edith. “I’m so
in a million.”
thankful they’ve never talked back
to us.”
located on 423 N. King St. in Kalihi.
The couple has a set routine.
a flower shop. You know what she
“Sometimes we get up at around 2
fast.”
said? ‘I know you can do it. Even if
or 3 a.m.; around 4 to 5 a.m. we get
you cannot make it, you are always
ready. We come to work early, drink
successful marriage, understanding
welcome to come back.’” Edith said
our coffee, and eat our breakfast at
is number one. If I know my husband
sweetest thing they’d ever done for
she was confused as to what to do
the shop. Every day, we look forward
is mad, I won’t bother him. We don’t
each other, Edith replied, “We do
at that time. “I hated having to leave
to work. We work every day; we
her, but I had to go on with my life.”
hardly stop working. And then we
Edith described Lillian as a kind
eat dinner, go home, and watch
individual. “She even gave me extra
dramas” (or at least Edith does: she
money – I’d have to give her back
mentioned her love for “Marimar” the
her money sometimes.” According to
Filipino TV drama series: “I bought
Edith, Lillian would visit her up until
the CDs – I have the whole set of that
she died in 2015; “she was the best
stuff!” Do they call that ‘workaholic’?
boss I ever had.”
When we went to the mainland, our
Edith and Val started their own
customers began to wonder what
lei and flower shop in 1988. She
happened to us! We stay at work
mentioned that she would have Val
more than we stay home. We love
stay home at the beginning of their
it, though!”
business journey, while her in-laws
helped with the shop. Their store
business and their life together, she
grew over time to employ seven
expressed her love for Val – “I’m
workers. Due to the pandemic, they
so thankful to God; he’s one in a
currently have four employees along
million.”
with themselves. “I’ve never had any
problems with our employees. In
business and marriage thrive?
fact, I’ve even forced some of them
to retire.”
a lot of patience and understanding,
The married couple/business
especially since you’ll run into some
partners stay at the shop for most of
rude people. You’ve got be down to
their waking hours. “We work every
earth. Give customers their money’s
day – we rarely take a day off!” Edith
worth; give good service. We’re so
however, described a few times in
blessed that we’ve stayed around
the last 33 years in which they left the
for this long – 33 years! – because
shop. “We went off to the Philippines
of what we do. If I complete a funeral
two times. We also went to the
wreath for example, and I see that it’s
Along with gushing over their
How do they make their “In a business, there’s got to be
As for marriage: “in a very
When asked what was the
Sunrise Leis & Flowers is
PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
“Happy Anniversary Manong Val and Manang Edith! Your marriage is a true example of great love and commitment. We wish the two of you a lovely celebration.
Love, Salacup Family Thank you Manong Val & Manang Edith Doctolero for your kindness, generosity and service to the community organizations, friends and customers. You’re such an amazing couple. We love you so much! From Victor & Rose Aquino
Best Wishes to Manang Edith & Manong Val Doctolero. Wishing you great love, happiness, peace and abundance all the days of your life. Rose Aquino
Patient Care Manager Ilocano & Tagalog
Call (808) 721-4853 TLC MEDICAL CENTER AND HONOLULU MEDSPA
1650 Liliha St. Suite 101, Honolulu HI 96817 Tel (808) 538-1905
Primary Care Car and Worker’s Accidents Annual Wellness visit to prevent heart attacks strokes, cancer and weight loss
Our Warmest & Best wishes to Manong Val & Manang Edith! May your love continue to blossom as you celebrate your 39th Anniversary! From
Romeo & Froebel Garcia
CONGRATULATIONS! KPRP EMPOWERED COUPLE KING VAL & QUEEN EDITH DOCTOLERO From Emmie Anderson & Cesar Bonilla
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 9
By HILDA HERRERA BORJA
With the recent shift in the National political climate, perhaps some of us may now be wondering what our future holds thereby are not even inclined to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year -“mo’ bettah pospon til we figah wat’s in it fo’us”. Well, I sincerely hope that this is just a passing thought given February 14 has traditionally been observed as a “LOVE celebration” day AND just think what many of us would be missing out on, if we forgo V- Day this year: Twelve fresh long-stem red roses, a box of dark chocolate sweets, three heart- shaped balloons, festive Valentine cards, electronic messages accented with emojis and of course, a warm “Happy Valentine’s Day” greeting gladly exchanged with one another-complimented by a fist or an elbow bump and even an air five or shaka sign. Such an abundance of love wishes are more than enough to trigger happy hormones and make one’s heart leap for joy. Valentine’s Day is one of our longheld yearly traditions here in the US and in many parts of the world. And even though this special day has not earned the status as a national holiday, it’s still a much-awaited jubilant event. However, unlike Thanksgiving Day and Christmas, the origin of Valentine’s Day is unclear. In fact, it seems as though the deeper we delve into it’s origin, the more we become bewildered. Information I’ve gathered from various sources attest that Valentine or Valentino was a popular name hundreds of years ago among Christians and there were even tales about several Saint Valentines symbolizing the essence of love. Suffice it to say that we may never know how Valentine’s Day came to be. And really, what matters the most is the fact that on February 14, we’re reminded about what LOVE is all about. L-O-V-E. This word should have more than four-letters in it as it carries greater weight than gold. Enamored couples swear to love each other till death; doting parents untiringly whisper “I love you” to their kids, and; some even shower their love gestures to their four-legged family members (a.k.a., pets). And what’s so amazing about LOVE is that it’s essence even
transcends human emotions and understanding— to the extent that The One in love would die to save humankind from their transgressions. And of course I am referring to The Greatest Love of All-- the embodiment of genuine love who came, live, die and rose again -- that we may have eternal life (John 3:16). Yes, you got it: I’m referring to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Marilyn Hickey, a modern-day Jesus follower shared her uplifting encounter during one of her many evangelistic crusades overseas. During a tent meeting, she was asked by an attendee why she believes and follows Jesus Christ and not any other sage in history. To her own amazement and delight, she instinctively responded: “Because Jesus was THE ONLY ONE who died and rose from the dead. Indisputably true-- to us, believers. His spirit is ever present and can live within us— if we invite Him in. AND not to forget that He will come again in the flesh (1 Corinthians 15:23). Skeptics might argue and even question, “What does Jesus have to do with us and why did He even willingly suffer the most horrifying and humiliating death-- on the cross (Matthew 27:50)? Why such a painful self sacrifice despite being mocked, spat on and even abandoned by his friends who feared retribution? Really, what’s in it for Jesus? To answer this major question behooves that we accept-- by faith-- who our loving God truly is to us AND what our relationship with Him has been or — will be, if we
accept His invitation to fellowship with Him. There have been countless expositions on who God truly is—that is, The ONE and ONLY GOD (Isaiah 44:6/Revelation 1:8). God’s Deity can best be understood by making an analogy. Just as we each has different roles as an individual, God has 3 distinct roles namely: (1) God the Father in Creation (James1:17); (2); God the Son (Jesus Christ) in Redemption (John 3:16), and; God the Holy Spirit, the Source of our Wisdom and strength (Acts 2:38). And all these 3 roles sum up who our Supreme ONE GOD is. Jesus embodies God’s everlasting love by redeeming us from our sinful nature. And having done so, He wants to impress upon us how much He loves us, as His children (2Corinthians 6:18). In fact, King David called each one of us as “the apple of God’s eye” (Psalm17:8). So, as God’s very own, have we even given this declaration a serious thought-- by appreciating WHO each one of us truly is? The Greek Philosopher Socrates recommends for man “to know himself” and French philosopher Auguste Comte elaborates by saying “to know oneself and to improve oneself ”. Since childhood, we’ve been taught to love others-- which is one of Christ’s greatest commandments. BUT have we even given it a thought to obey the second part of this precept: to LOVE OURSELVES (Matthew 32:37-39)-- as God loves us (Luke 10:27)? This is a serious question needing honest
personal conversations with ourselves and God. SELF LOVE has been expounded on a positive light as well as condemned as an antithesis to good human relationship. In keeping with God’s Word, let’s not allow anyone to ever convince us that self love is a bad word given: it’s not just a good idea but rather it’s a God idea. LOVING ONESELF means being respectful and appreciative of as well, as being comfortable with WHO and WHOSE we truly are: l God’s royal children (1Peter 2:9). And being so, we are well-deserving of our own love-- as God loves us (1Corinthians 13:13). Additionally, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (Corinthians 6:19). In human terms, self love is often referred to as self respect and positive selfesteem. On the downside, some equate self love with egotism, as being selfabsorbed and having an utter disregard toward other’s well-being. These mischaracterizations seem to have gained a far greater influence so much so that “being comfortable in one’s skin” is viewed as being arrogant and even narcissistic. Sadly, “Giving oneself to others till it hurts” (also known as people pleasing) is viewed as a virtue. Reality is: it’s not our job to please others-- all the time. More so, we can’t please every one anyway. Therefore, there will be times when we may become recipients of slings and arrows but we must humbly and courageously stand our ground knowing who’s got our back.
God commands us to love others by being compassionate, just and respectful. Also, to be able to say “NO” when needed— to uphold and preserve our personal boundary. Placing lower priority on our self worth -- by seeking others’ approval— all the time— with the end goal of being “on other’s good side” and for fear of offending others— is not being true to ourselves and others at all. Codependence benefits no one and the end results are negative self esteem and self loathing on the part of the discontent individual. This Valentine’s Day, let’s do a “self awareness” inventory and see for ourselves where we stand as far as loving and respecting the apple of God’s eyes: OURSELVES. We are not perfect however we can appreciate ourselves as God’s LOVE gift AND likewise, humbly redirect our shortcomings--in the name of LOVE! Let’s give it a go and see how lovely life could be for us and others! Have a Happy Valentine’s Day and Stay loving!
Hilda Herrera Borja is a freelance writer. She retired as a Behavioral Health Provider for the Department of Defense. Thereafter, she worked as a Military & Family Life Consultant/Counselor for all branches of the military on the Island of Oahu. Being a columnist for the Fil-Am Courier is her way of connecting with and serving our Filipino community.
PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
U.S. President
Joe Biden
U.S. President Joe Biden: “My fellow Americans: This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope, of renewal and resolve. Through a crucible for the ages, America has been tested anew and America has risen to the challenge. Today, we celebrate the triumph, not of a candidate, but of a cause. The cause of democracy. The people, the will of the people has been heard, and the will of the people has been heeded. We’ve learned again that democracy is precious, democracy is fragile. At this hour my friends, democracy has prevailed. So now, on this hallowed ground, where just a few days ago, violence sought to shake the Capitol’s very foundation, we come together as one nation under God, indivisible, to carry out the peaceful transfer of power, as we have for more than two centuries. As we look ahead in our uniquely American way: restless, bold, optimistic, and set our sights on the nation we know we can be and we must be. I thank my predecessors of both parties for their presence here today. I thank them from the bottom of my heart and I know the resilience of our constitution and the strength, the strength of our nation, as does President Carter, who I spoke with last night, who cannot be with us today, but whom we salute for his lifetime of service. I’ve just taken the sacred oath each of those patriots have taken, the oath first sworn by George Washington. But the American story depends not on any one of us, not on some of us, but on all of us. On we the people who seek a more perfect union. This is a great nation. We are good people. And over the centuries through storm and strife, in peace and in war, we’ve come so far, but we still have far to go. We’ll press forward with speed and urgency for we have much to do in this winter of peril and significant possibilities. Much to repair, much to restore, much to heal, much to build, and much to gain. Few people in our nation’s history have been more challenged, or found a time more challenging or difficult than the time we’re in now. Once-ina-century virus, it silently stalks the country. It has taken as many lives in one year as America lost in all of World War II. Millions of jobs have been lost. Hundreds of thousands of businesses closed. A cry for racial justice, some
delivers his speech after he was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, January 20, 2021
400 years in the making, moves us. The dream of justice for all will be deferred no longer. A cry for survival comes from the planet itself, a cry that can’t be any more desperate, or any more clear. And now, a rise of political extremism, white supremacy, domestic terrorism that we must confront and we will defeat. To overcome these challenges to restore the soul and secure the future America requires so much more than words, it requires the most elusive of all things in a democracy: unity, unity. In another January, on New Year’s Day in 1863 Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. When he put pen to paper, the president said, and I quote: “If my name ever goes down into history, it’ll be for this act, and my whole soul is in it.” My whole soul was in it today. On this January day, my whole soul is in this, bringing America together, uniting our people, uniting our nation, and I ask every American to join me in this cause. Uniting to fight the foes we face: anger, resentment and hatred, extremism, lawlessness, violence, disease, joblessness and hopelessness. With unity we can do great things, important things. We can right wrongs, we can put people to work in good jobs, we can teach our children in safe schools, we can overcome the deadly virus. We can reward work, and rebuild the middle class and make health care secure for
all. We can deliver racial justice, and we can make America once again the leading force for good in the world. I know speaking of unity, it can sound to some like a foolish fantasy these days. I know the forces that divide us are deep, and they are real. But I also know they are not new. Our history has been a constant struggle between the American ideal that we’re all are created equal and the harsh, ugly reality that racism, nativism, fear, demonization, have long torn us apart. The battle is perennial and victory is never assured. Through Civil War, the Great Depression, World Wars, 9-11. Through struggle, sacrifice, and setbacks our better angels have always prevailed. In each of these moments, enough of us, enough of us have come together to carry all of us forward. And we can do that now. History, faith, and reason show the way, the way of unity. We can see each other not as adversaries, but as neighbours, we can treat each other with dignity and respect. We can join forces, stop the shouting and lower the temperature. For that without unity, there is no peace, only bitterness and fury. No progress, only exhausting outrage, no nation, only a state of chaos. This is our historic moment of crisis and challenge and unity is the path forward. And we must meet this moment as the United States of America. If we do that, I guarantee you
we will not fail. We have never ever, ever, ever failed in America. We’ve acted together. And so today, at this time in this place, let’s start afresh all of us. Let’s begin to listen to one another again, hear one another, see one another, show respect to one another. Politics doesn’t have to be a raging fire, destroying everything in his path. Every disagreement doesn’t have to be a cause for total war, and we must reject the culture in which facts themselves are manipulated, and even manufactured. My fellow Americans, we have to be different than this. America has to be better than this. And I believe America is so much better than this. Just look around, here we stand in the shadows of the Capitol dome. As was mentioned earlier, completed amid the Civil War, when the union itself was literally hanging in the balance. Yet, we endured. We prevail. Here we stand, looking out on the great mall, where Dr. King spoke of his dream. Here we stand where 108 years ago, at another inaugural thousands of protesters tried to block brave women marching for the right to vote. And today, we marked the swearing in of the first woman in American history elected to national office, Vice President Kamala Harris. Don’t tell me things can’t change. Here we stand, across the Potomac from the Arlington Cemetery, were heroes who gave the last full measure of devotion
rest in eternal peace. And here we stand, just days after a riotous mob thought they could use violence to silence the will of the people, to stop the work of our democracy, to drive us from this sacred ground. It did not happen. It will never happen. Not today, not tomorrow, not ever, not ever. To all those who supported our campaign, I’m humbled by the faith you’ve placed in us. To all those who did not support us, let me say this: hear me out as we move forward. Take your measure me and my heart. If you still disagree, so be it. That’s democracy. That’s America. The right to dissent peaceably within the guardrails of our Republic is perhaps this nation’s greatest strength. You hear me clearly: disagreement must not lead to disunion. And I pledge this to you: I will be a president for all Americans, all Americans. And I promise you, I will fight as hard for those who did not support me, as for those who did. Many centuries ago, St. Augustine, a saint in my church, wrote that the people was a multitude defined by the common objects of their love, defined by the common objects of their love. What are the common objects we as Americans love that define us as Americans? I think we know. Opportunity, security, liberty, dignity, respect, honour, and yes, the truth. Recent weeks and months have
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 11
taught us a painful lesson. There is truth and there are lies, lies told for power, and for profit. And each of us has a duty and a responsibility as citizens, as Americans, and especially as leaders, leaders who have pledged to honour our constitution, to protect our nation, to defend the truth and defeat the lies. Look, I understand that many of my fellow Americans view the future with fear and trepidation. I understand they worry about their jobs. I understand, like my dad, they lay in bed staring at night, staring at the ceiling wondering: ‘Can I keep my health care? Can I pay my mortgage?’ Thinking about their families, about what comes next. I promise you I get it. But the answer is not to turn inward, to retreat into competing factions, distrusting those who don’t look like you, or worship the way you do, or don’t get their news from the same sources you do. We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, rural versus urban, conservative versus liberal. We can do this if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts, if we show a little tolerance and humility, and if we’re willing to stand in the other person’s shoes as my mom would say: ‘Just for a moment, stand in their shoes.’ Because here’s the thing about life, there’s no accounting for what fate will deal you. Some days, when you need a hand, there are other days when we’re called to lend a hand, that’s how it has to be, it is what we do for one another. And if we are this way, our country will be stronger, more prosperous, more ready for the future, and we can still disagree. My fellow Americans, in the work ahead of us, we’re going to need each other. We need all our strength to persevere through this dark winter. We’re entering what may be the toughest and deadliest period of the virus. We must set aside politics and finally face this pandemic as one nation, one nation. And I promise you this, as the Bible says, weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. We will get through this together, together. Look folks, all my colleagues I serve with in the House and the Senate up here, we all understand the world is watching, watching all of us today. So here’s my message to those beyond our borders: America has been tested, and we’ve come out stronger for it. We will repair our alliances and engage
President Joe Biden was inaugurated on Jan. 20, 2021. Though the inauguration took place amid the coronavirus pandemic and security threats, it encouraged unity across the country.
with the world once again, not to meet yesterday’s challenges, but today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. And we’ll lead not merely by the example of our power, but by the power of our example. We will be a strong and trusted partner for peace, progress, and security. Look, you all know we’ve been through so much in this nation and my first act as President, I’d like to ask you to join me in a moment of silent prayer to remember all those who we lost this past year to the pandemic, those 400,000 fellow Americans, moms, dads, husbands, wives, sons, daughters, friends, neighbours and co-workers. We will honour them by becoming the people and the nation we know we can and should be. So I ask you, let’s say a silent prayer for those who’ve lost their lives and those left behind and for our country. Amen. Folks, this is time of testing. We face an attack on our democracy and untruth, a raging virus, growing inequity, the sting of systemic racism, a climate
in crisis, America’s role in the world. Any one of these will be enough to challenge us in profound ways, but the fact is, we face them all at once presenting this nation with one of the gravest responsibilities we’ve had. Now we’re going to be tested, are we going to step up? All of us? It’s time for boldness for there’s so much to do, and this is certain, I promise you, we will be judged, you and I, by how we resolve these cascading crises of our era. Will we rise to the occasion is the question? Will we master this rare and difficult hour? Will we meet our obligations and pass along a new and better world to our children? I believe we must. I’m sure you do as well, I believe we will, and when we do we’ll write the next great chapter in the history of the United States of America, the American story, a story that might sound something like a song that means a lot to me. It’s is called American Anthem. There’s one verse that stands out, at
least for me, and it goes like this: ‘The work and prayers of a century have brought us to this day, what shall be our legacy? What will our children say? Let me know in my heart when my days are through. America, America, I gave my best to you.’ Let’s add, let’s us add our own work and prayers to the unfolding story of our great nation. If we do this, then when our days are through, our children, and our children’s children will save us. They gave their best, they did their duty, they healed a broken land. My fellow Americans, I close today where I began, with the sacred oath before God and all of you, I give you my word, I will always level with you. I will defend the constitution, I’ll defend our democracy, I’ll defend America. And we’ll give it all… keep everything I do in your service, thinking not of power, but the possibilities, not of personal interest, but the public good and together, we shall write an American story of hope, not fear, of unity, not division, of light, not darkness.
A story of decency and dignity, love and healing, greatness and goodness. May this be the story that guides us, the story that inspires us, and the story that tells ages yet to come that we answered the call of history, we met the moment. Democracy and hope, truth and justice, did not die on our watch, but thrived. That America secured Liberty at home and stood once again as a beacon to the world. That is what we owe our forbearers, one another, and generations to follow. So, with purpose and resolve, we turn to those tasks of our time, sustained by faith, driven by conviction and devoted to one another and the country we love with all our hearts. May God bless America, and may God protect our troops. Thank you, America.”
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
By NANCY BERNAL Jim Brickman
Kelly Hu
Lani Misalucha
••••
February is the month for
confined in the ICU for six days and
romance with Valentine’s Day
Lani was in ICU for four days. They
on February 14; but during the
remained in the hospital much longer
– debuted on Netflix on January
pandemic, for safety reasons, it
and battled symptoms of hearing
29 and it was primarily filmed in
is impossible to attend concerts,
loss, balance issues and pain. They
Hawaii. This adventure comedy
special events and social gatherings.
are continuing their healing with
features some local actors including
There are other options and you
therapy, exercise and medications
Kelly Hu (former Miss Hawaii USA
can celebrate Valentine’s Day in
to regain their health. Through this
– originally from Hawaii), who has
the comfort of your home enjoying
terrible experience, Lani is thankful
been residing in L.A. for over thirty
a romantic evening with your loved
that she and Noli can still walk, talk
years. Branscombe Richmond,
one viewing a virtual concert by Jim
and move and for Lani, to be able
an accomplished actor that is a
Brickman.
Grammy- Nominated
to sing. She has learned during
longtime Maui resident, is also in a
Songwriter and piano sensation
this challenging time that “Life is
leading role in this production. This
Jim Brickman will be taking the
precious”.
is a movie that will be especially
nation by storm this month with
During the last five months, Lani
appealing for Hawaii residents and
“Share The Love” LIVE Virtually
Misalucha was scheduled to co-host
former Hawaii residents, but also
on February 12, 13 and 14. These
the GMA talent search – “The Clash”,
entertaining for everyone.
special concerts will bring the LIVE
but had to be replaced by Pops
concert experience up close and
Fernandez during her illness. Lani
personal with Jim Brickman’s “Love
returned to the show in December,
three episodic series. “Magnum PI”
By Request” concerts filled with his
2020 and was grateful to be able to
is currently filming its third season
own hit songs such as “Love of My
sing and perform again.
on Oahu for airing on CBS. A new
••••
Life”, “Destiny”, “Angel Eyes” and
A new movie – “Finding Ohana”
•••• Hawaii has become the base for
comedy/drama series – “Doogie
“Valentine”. Tickets are on sale at
The Ronald McDonald House
Kamealoha, M.D.” – begins filming
www.jimbrickman .com
Charities of Hawaii received a
on Oahu this month for airing on
I presented the question to Jim
wonderful donation in January, 2021
Disney+. Another thriller series – “I
Brickman, “If you could have one
– a new piano for the house on Judd
Know What You Did Last Summer”
wish granted, what would it be.”
Hillside. Their piano that had been
– begins filming on Oahu this
Jim’s reply was, “I’d love to be able to
in the house for a long time was not
month for airing on Amazon. These
keep doing what I do for many years
working well. A big mahalo goes
productions enrich the economy in
to come. To be healthy enough to
out to several people that made this
our 50th State and also present its
play, write, perform and share my
donation possible. Thank you to
scenic beauty to the world.
music with people for the rest of my
Noly Paa for referring Lee Gordon
life.”
to tune the old piano. Mahalo to
Lee Gordon for trying to tune the old
Stay safe!
Lani Misalucha, Asia’s
piano, but due to its bad condition,
Nightingale, is still recovering
was unable to. Therefore, Lee
entertainment information, please
after being afflicted with bacterial
contacted George Nellas (Owner of
contact Nancy Bernal at 808- 947-
meningitis in September, 2020.
Piano Planet) and George offered to
5736 or e-mail her at NancyBernal@
Lani’s husband, Noli and Lani ate at
donate a new piano to The Ronald
aol.com)
a restaurant in the Philippines where
McDonald House. Thank you to
they were served pork. Two days
George Nellas and Piano Planet
later, they became sick with fevers,
for your generosity! Music is very
chills and disorientation and were
healing to everyone and the families
taken by ambulance to St. Luke’s
at The Ronald McDonald House will
Medical Center where Noli was
benefit greatly from this beautiful gift.
••••
Left to right: George Nellas (Owner of Piano Planet), Nia Huakau (Guest Services at RMHC) and Kanoe Paauhau (Director of House Operations at RMHC) with the new piano in The Ronald McDonald House
Branscombe Richmond
•••• For now, That’s Entertainment! (If you would like to submit
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 13
Filipinos comprise a huge chunk of the population of Hawai’i. A number of Filipino Americans (FilAm) have established themselves as chefs, restaurant owners, farmers, and workers supporting the food and beverage industry in the State. Their presence in the food industry is strong and their potential to be purveyors of Filipino cuisine is immense. To further strengthen the growing influence and the relationships among FilAm chefs, workers, farmers, and business establishments and to help them pivot amidst the challenges brought by the pandemic, the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu has partnered with the Filipino Food Movement (FFM) in organizing the Savor Filipino Summit-Hawaii. FFM is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in San Francisco, California that works to promote, progress, and preserve Filipino cuisine. The Summit aims to bring together the food community to share ideas on how to market and brand Filipino food and come up with strategies to survive and thrive under the current environment. The online event will be held on February 8, 2021 from 1:004:00 p.m. Participants can register at http://filipino foodmovement.org/. An array of resource persons representing various fields have been tapped to speak during the
CONSULATE TO STRENGTHEN FILIPINO FOOD MOVEMENT IN HAWAII event. Eddie Flores Jr., a successful FilAm entrepreneur and founder of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, will give the keynote speech. Renowned chef and co-founder of the Hawaii Regional Cuisine (HRC), Sam Choy, shall serve as one of the panelists in the breakout session on Identity: A dive into the past and exploration of the future of Filipino cuisine in Hawai’i, along with Dr. Pia Arboleda, Executive Director of the Center for Philippine Studies at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. Alexandra Dorda, founder of Kasama Rum, a Filipino rum bottled in Poland, Cheryl Tiu, lifestyle journalist and founder of Cross Cultures, and Patrice Cleary, chef and owner of Purple Patch restaurant in Washington DC will be featured in the session on Branding: Breaking the stereotypes of design & popularizing Filipino food around the globe. Meanwhile, Alexandra Cuerdo, director and producer of “Ulam: Main Dish”, a documentary following the rise of the Filipino food movement in
America, Eric Baranda, contributor at Frolic Hawai’i, and Queenie Laforga, local food influencer will be tapped to share their insights during the panel discussion on Media: How can we get more representation in food media? On the fourth breakout session, Business: Starting and sustaining food businesses through a pandemic, Peter Oshiro from the Hawai’i Department of Health will talk about food safety regulations in Hawai’i. Eric Elnar, Philippine Trade Commissioner, will provide insights on how to import food ingredients and products from the
Philippines while Joel Navasca, chef and owner of Tiano’s Restaurant will share his experience in establishing and operating a food business in Hawai’i. Aside from panel discussions, the Summit will feature an online networking session where participants can meet and interact with other attendees. Participants can also visit the virtual booths of participating companies and food establishments at the Expo Area of the event. “We hope that the Summit
will spark more conversations and generate stronger collaborations among FilAm stakeholders to carve a place for Filipino cuisine in Hawai’i and the global culinary mainstream,” Consul General Joselito Jimeno of the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu said in his invitation to stakeholders to attend the Summit. The Savor Filipino SummitHawaii is supported by AcuGlobal Endeavors, Ramar Foods, and Tuktuk Box. For press inquiries, email andrea. caymo@dfa.gov.ph or call 808-4294458.
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
By ANITA HOFSCHNEIDER
The virus has sickened Filipinos
disproportionately and led to widespread job losses.
When Jenny Delos Santos got
her COVID-19 positive test result in April, it was only the latest hit in what was already a terrible year.
Santos had been on leave
from her job as a news assistant — mourning the deaths of her two adult children prior to the pandemic
A sign at Big Island Candies in Ala Moana Shopping Center warns shoppers to sanitize their hands. Hawaii has been slowly opening back up as daily COVID-19 counts remain in the single digits.
— when she found out she was laid
Santos no longer had her Honolulu
learned hallucinations are, for some,
of Filipino residents in Hawaii who
task force has partnered with various
off in late March. She was already
Star-Advertiser health insurance.
a side effect of the virus. Despite how
have tested positive for COVID-19
nonprofit organizations and the
sick, and got tested for coronavirus
As it became harder to breathe
sick she felt, Santos didn’t want to
since the pandemic hit the islands
Filipino Community Center to
that same day.
and her cough worsened, she
see a doctor and risk adding to her
nine months ago. According to the
use federal CARES Act funding
By the time she got her positive
hallucinated, seeing angels on
existing medical debt.
state Department of Health, Hawaii’s
to educate thousands of Filipino
test result more than a week later,
her husband’s shoulder. She later
Filipino community makes up 16% of
residents about the virus and how
the state’s population, but compose
to prevent it. The group hosted a
more than a fifth of confirmed cases.
radiothon on Thanksgiving weekend
That’s the second-worst disparity in
and has been offering COVID-19
the state, behind only non-Hawaiian
testing after Sunday masses in
Pacific Islanders. As of Friday, 226
December.
Filipinos have been hospitalized and
58 have died.
the University of Hawaii, estimates
The disproportionate case
the group has reached more than
counts are compounded by sky-
20,000 people through radio, social
high unemployment in Hawaii’s
media and in-person events since it
tourism industry, where thousands
launched its work in November. It’s
of Filipino residents work. Over
racing to spend federal funds before
the last two months, the state and
the December 31 deadline.
community organizations have
launched concerted outreach to the
and mobilize,” she said. So far,
Filipino communities through free
the group’s members have noticed
testing, community meetings, radio
a crucial need for information
and social media.
translated into Filipino languages,
Rochelle Mae Cadiente is
with surveys finding that 75% of
among several students at the
participants in their events speaking
University of Hawaii who have been
a language other than English.
Santos is among thousands
Agnes Malate, a professor at
“We really had to hurry up
working with the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii to pass out
Overcoming Stigma
flyers at grocery stores and post
information on social media to
community isn’t always easy. On
prevent spread.
a recent Sunday, the testing site in
the parking lot behind St. Joseph’s
“When one person is suffering,
Reaching Hawaii’s Filipino
we’re all suffering,” she said.
Church in Waipahu was quiet and
slow. The church has a majority
A grassroots Filipino COVID-19
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 15
Filipino congregation but only about a dozen people opted to get tested.
The challenge extends to
contact tracing, the process of finding people who may have been exposed to someone sickened by coronavirus. Chantelle Matagi, who leads the Department of Health’s contact tracing team dedicated to Pacific Islanders, including Filipinos, said her team frequently battles COVID-19 stigma and distrust of government.
“Much like Pacific Islanders,
Filipinos have their own colonial histories which of course color how they view government entities,” said Matagi.
Many people are particularly
worried that they could get in trouble with law enforcement or immigration officials. Honolulu has issued an unprecedented number of tickets to enforce stay-at-home orders.
“We have to also be very careful
and reassure them that we’re not there to police, police and report,” she said. They tell people, if you cooperate with contact tracers, “You’re not going to get your relative in trouble.”
Kremlin Manuel is a Filipino
immigrant and a U.S. Army National Guard member who works with Matagi on contact investigations. On a typical day, the team will contact 25 families. It can sometimes take up to two hours to speak with families and earn their trust enough to get the information they need. Sometimes, if their loved ones have died from COVID-19, the families are griefstricken and emotional. Other times they won’t answer the phone at all.
Jenny Delos Santos lost her job while sick with COVID-19, experiencing the double whammy of the pandemic that has hit Hawaii’s Filipino community particularly hard.
“Number one thing is the fear,
their fear of getting consequences,” Manuel said. “That’s why they don’t pick up the phone. Or putting a shame to the Filpino community.
That’s another thing.”
Thousands Unemployed
received money briefly in June.
have been extended until March and
“It’s too hard waiting for
she hopes they are able to continue
Matagi’s and Manuel’s
For the first few months of
contact investigations team was
the pandemic, Cadiente didn’t
something you never get,” she said.
beyond that. She also hopes that
created in mid-October and now
know anyone who was sick from
She’s relied on her husband’s
people realize the communities
has 20 members who speak nine
COVID-19. Recently she learned
income, rental assistance from
themselves aren’t the problem, but
languages including three Filipino
one of her friends caught it, and
Catholic Charities and the generosity
they are in a problematic situation
languages — Tagalog, Ilocano and
suspects shame kept her friend from
of her coworkers to make ends
where they don’t have access to
Cebuano. Matagi said the trends
revealing that for weeks. What’s been
meet. She’s also ignoring medical
equitable health care.
she sees in Filipino families struck
more apparent to Cadiente is the
bills she can’t afford.
with COVID-19 mirror what she sees
pandemic’s economic impact. Her
to systemic inequalities,” Matagi said.
among Pacific Islander families:
mother, a housekeeping supervisor
caught the virus, but wonders if it
they hold public-facing jobs, have
at a local hotel, hasn’t been able to
happened at a bus stop when she
support from the USC Annenberg
pre-existing medical conditions and
work for months.
gave directions to tourists. Nine
Center for Health Journalism National
often lack health insurance. Many
She’s not alone. More than
months later, she still struggles with
Fellowship and its Dennis A. Hunt
are also health care workers or work
18,500 Filipinos have filed for
hallucinations and isn’t sure if they’ll
Fund for Health Journalism.
in care homes for the elderly.
unemployment in Hawaii, more than
ever go away.
Their jobs leave them no way to
any other ethnic group, according
avoid the risk of exposure. “If you’re
to state data. That’s not surprising
of Health says her team’s contracts
a nurse, you’re a caretaker, you’re
given so many work in the state’s
working at a restaurant that’s just not
decimated tourism industry.
possible,” Matagi said. “You have to
go into work or you don’t get paid.”
for Unite Here Local 5, says the
national, regional and local awards.
Many also live in crowded or
majority of the union’s 11,000-plus
multi-generational households to
members are Filipino. Many still
afford Hawaii’s high cost of living.
haven’t gone back to work, and
A 2018 state study that analyzed
prospects are so poor for some that
Census data about families who
the union is investing in retraining for
were part-Filipino — about a quarter
different jobs altogether.
of the state’s population — found
that on average, homes owned
likely an undercount of the number
by Filipinos include more than five
of Filipinos who have lost their jobs.
people and rentals by Filipinos
Santos says she eventually gave
average more than four, higher than
up applying for unemployment after
the state average.
struggling with the system, and only
Bryant de Venecia, spokesman
Santos isn’t sure where she
“A lot of these disparities are due This story was produced with
Matagi from the Department
Anita Hofschneider is a reporter covering social issues for Civil Beat. She previously covered city and state politics, the environment, land use and housing. Her work has won multiple Prior to starting at Civil Beat, Anita covered the 2013 Hawaii legislative session for the
Associated Press and interned at the Wall Street Journal in New York. She graduated from Harvard with honors in 2012 and is originally from the U.S. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
You can follow Anita on Twitter @ahofschneider, on Instagram @anitahofschneider or
email her at ahofschneider@civilbeat.org.
The state unemployment data is
For Advertising Information, please call 595-8787 or 478-9688
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
Happy Habits: Fun Ways to Feel Young You can’t escape the extra candle being added to your birthday cake each year. But just because you’re getting older, doesn’t mean you need to feel older. And there are plenty of things you can do that will make you feel AMAZING, no matter what your age is—possibly even better than you felt in your 20s! Now, the two big secrets for feeling younger are… you guessed it… eating right and exercising regularly. But if you’re already doing those two things—or you don’t have the energy or time to make them a habit—below you’ll find some recommended ways for helping yourself look and feel younger. Try these “happy habits” out and it won’t be long before you’re running circles around your (grand)kids! CHECK THESE OUT: Happy Habit #1: Try something new. Getting older doesn’t mean you can’t have new experiences. So go ahead and pick up a new hobby—it’s never too late to try something new or return to something you used to love. Rekindle your love of painting or buy a new road bike and feel the rush of wind in your face. Unleashing your creativity and moving towards a new purpose will have you feeling more youthful, energized, and excited! Happy Habit #2: Have sex. Hubba-hubba ;) According to research, having sex regularly can make you look and feel up to 7 years younger. The release of feel-good endorphins and better blood circulation will have you smiling from ear to ear in no time. Beats going to the gym, doesn’t it? Happy Habit #3: Get your hair done. Having dry, thin, and dull hair that doesn’t suit you will absolutely make you feel older than you really are—but fortunately there’s an easy fix! Find a reputable colorist or stylist, and give your ‘do an upgrade—I know I sure feel more confident and younger than my years after a trip to the salon. Happy Habit #4: Go outside. One of my favorite ways of feeling more “alive” (and youthful) is by planning and going on a little adventure. Granted, traveling to faraway, exotic locales might not be in the cards right now. But heading outside of the city to check out a new park, exploring local hiking trails, or even taking a ‘staycation’ can be equally adventurous, and give you the same benefits. Happy Habit #5: Do what makes you smile. Smiling more might be the cheapest and easiest trick to feeling younger. The more you smile, the happier you’ll feel. Not to mention, researchers learned that smiling makes you appear younger than you are whereas frowning does the opposite. So find things that make you smile and do MORE of those things :) I hope those tips help you feel happy and youthful. Here’s to looking—and feeling—half your age!
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 17
Hawaii Best Loans, LLC NMLS#: 397936
Tel. (808) 591-1137 Email: ashlee@hawaiibestloans.com Website: www.hawaiibestloans.com
Ashlee Sook Cho James, President NMLS# 368025 Tel. (808) 591-1137 Email: ashlee@hawaiibestloans.com.
Aloha, I hope and trust that all is well with you and that you are weathering this pandemic storm in good health. These are definitely challenging times for all of us. Please stay safe! The theme for this month’s newsletter is “Mortgage Interest Rate Projections for 2021.” I will try to give you a peek into the future so you will know what to expect as you think about your mortgage loan options. In the meantime, I want to wish you a very Happy, Peaceful and Joyous Holiday Season. I hope that your 2021 will get off to a great start and that it will be your best year ever. Ashlee Sook Cho James, President NMLS#: 368025 Hawaii Best Loans - NMLS#: 397936
FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK
WHAT WILL MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES DO IN 2021?
Let’s get to it! Leading housing agencies are expecting an average 30-year mortgage rate of 3.03% in 2021. Until 2020, the lowest 30-year rate on record was 3.29%. Now, experts are saying interest rates could remain well below that for a year or more to come. Low rates mean expanded buying power, cheaper monthly payments, and huge savings. But remember, there’s always volatility in the mortgage market. Nothing is absolutely certain when it comes to rate projections. Don’t base your home buying or refinancing plans on a favorable prediction. If you’re ready to lock a rate now, it’s a great time to do so. With rates still at all-time lows, there is a counter-theory that they only have one way to go at some point next year … UP! As always, some borrowers will get lower rates than the ‘averages’ seen in the news, and some will get higher rates. That’s because your own interest rate doesn’t just depend on the market — it depends on who you are as a borrower.
Who gets below-market rates? It’s usually borrowers who have: A credit score of 720 or higher A clean credit report A down payment of 20% (on conventional loans) A low debt-to-income ratio A home price within local loan limits You need to be willing to shop around to find the lowest rate for your situation. This is where I come into the picture. I can help you obtain the lowest rate available based on your own personal profile. My goal is to always find the best deal for my borrowers. BONUS INFORMATION! 5 STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR CREDIT SCORE One of the most important factors in securing a mortgage loan is your credit score. When scores drift down into the low 600s and beyond, applicable interest rates will become higher or a loan might not be possible at all. Here at Hawaii Best Loans, we have years of experience in working with borrowers and know exactly how to get their credit scores to a level where their loan is possible and rates remain low. Here are 5 quick tips for lowering your credit score: 1. Pay Your Bills on Time ... especially any medical bills that you may have, even if the amounts are low. 2. Get Credit for Making Utility and Cell Phone Payments on Time. ... 3. Pay off Debt and Keep Balances Low on Credit Cards and Other Revolving Credit. 4. Apply for and Open New Credit Accounts Only as Needed. ... 5. Don’t Close Unused Credit Cards. For more information and assistance in raising your current credit score, just give me a call and I will show you the secrets to credit success! I hope that you enjoyed this edition of our monthly newsletter. I’m looking forward to working with you throughout the coming year in an effort to help you achieve your borrowing goals and objectives. In the meantime, If there is anything that I can help you with right away, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thanks, Ashlee Sook Cho James, President NMLS# 368025 Tel. (808) 591-1137 Email: ashlee@hawaiibestloans.com.
New Book!
As some of you may know, my husband, Jesse, is a speaker, consultant and author. He has just published an exciting new book titled, “I’m Third”... success secrets and motivational anecdotes from 30 years on the speaking platform. It is now available through Amazon.com. You can find out more about it at the following link: “I’m Third” It will make a perfect gift for the Holidays. If you purchase 3 books, you will receive free shipping. Amazon Prime members also receive free shipping regardless of the number of books ordered. What better gift than one of motivation, inspiration and a positive outlook in life ... especially during the challenging times that we find ourselves in?
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2021 • PAGE 19
CLASSIFIED ADS HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Hiring PT Cashier and Kitchen Help
STORE MANAGER
Fast Food Sushi Restaurant Call Wendell (808) 864-0148
FOSTER HOME
Rent - $8,000 Wheel chair accesible 744 22nd Ave. - Kaimuki Area Possible Foster Home, 3 units 1st 2beds, 2baths 2nd 2beds, 2baths 3rd 2beds, 2baths Total 7 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms - 2019 built - Brand New House - New Split AC rach room - Car garage
STORE
2161 N. School St. 980 sqft Store - $1,800
SALE
$1,320,000 2006 built almost brandnew - Kalihi Valley 11 bedrooms, 8.5 bathrooms Excellent rent income
SALE
Ubae LLC. BS/BA Manage, drive sales & create promotions
1284 Kalani St., Ste D-107 Honolulu, HI 96817
FOR RENT
FOR RENT
FOR RENT
Sale: $1,320,000, 2055 built almost brand new Kalihi Valley 11-bedroom, 8.5 bathroom Excellent rent income.
ROOM FOR RENT
Call 676-0759
HELP WANTED Seeking Grill Cook & Cashier No experience needed EXPERIENCED PAY UP TO $14 Please call to apply Ala Moana: Cathleen Tadeo 382-3468 NEX: Arvie Ventura 398-4663 Pearlridge: Mannette Garcia 253-1519
HELP WANTED
Looking for KITCHEN HELPER must be able to work early morning hours. Must be dependable, responsible and reliable.
For Advertising Information, please call 595-8787 or 478-9688
HOUSE FOR RENT:
3 Bedroom, 2 Bath House semi furnished near Kam Shopping Center I covered parking, $2,600 per month water, electric, included washer, dyer call Mario:
(808) 232-8157
HELP WANTED
Care Home Rent -
Apply in person 2284 Kalakaua Ave.
4bdrm, 2 bath, parking, $2.295 available now. Below Nimitz Hwy. Call 386-3997
Call (808) 778-7813
2161 N. SCHOOL ST.
FOR SALE
KALIHI, APARTMENT, DOWNSTAIRS
2 bed/1 bath apt $1,500.00/mo 1-year lease
Apply in person: 64 N Pauahi St. Honolulu,HI 96817. Between 6 AM to 1:30PM Wednesday thru Monday.
Looking for cooks must be able to work lunch and or dinner. full time or part time, full give medical. Experience $15 00 an hour, No experience $13:00 an hour.
FOR RENT
FOR RENT-KALIHI
Will pay for medical, starting $2800 a month.
$499,000 - Honolulu Tower Condo 2/1/1, 1054 sqft Bus stop China market, restaurant, Business, store
Valley of the Temples, Eternal Love, 3 plots Value $10,000/ea. Asking $20,000/ all 3 plots. Call/Text 304-6590
Waipahu, 1 Bedroom for 1 person $500 not including utilities
Tel. No. 922-6868
Ask for Hisao or Almario
CUSTOMER SERVICE/CALL-TAKER Full/Part-time
No experience OK, we will train. Good communication skill, pleasing personality with minimal typing skill. We offer good benefits-medical/dental, 401k, paid vacation/sick leave, parking.
Call: 943-0000
980SQF Retail Store $1,800
Built Care home 2017 7 bed, close to town, close to hospital call (808) 393-6230 email: lee@Locations Hawaii.com
FOR RENT: Kalihi 2BR/1BA/1PKG $1,225.00, No pets 1922 Kahai St. Apt. D Available 11/16,
Call Virgie 386-3997
2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath,
Waipahu area, Formore info, contact Maria @ (808) 365-8310
HOUSE FOR RENT 3 bedroom/1bath Near school, bus stop, and shopping center. No pets Call 808-208-5880
WEDDINGS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE JUDGE GRAULTY (RETIRED)
CALL 778-8510 TO SCHEDULE