PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
community CALENDAR Compiled by Amelia Casamina Cabatu
OAHU May 16, 2015 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii; 2015 Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year, 2015 Young Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year and Scholarship Awards; Hawaii Prince Hotel 6:00 PM Tickets:$65 Contact Person: Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090; Rocky Anguay 696-7970; Paul Alimbuyao 754-8691 May 16, 2015 United Pangasinan of Hawaii 47th Anniversary Dinner & Dance Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom, 6:00 PM; Tickets: $60 Contact person: CelyVillareal 7782481 or 689-4911 May 16, 2015 3rd UE Global Reunion Gala Night Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort Tapa Ballroom 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM; Contact Person: Baybee HufanaAblan 753-5616 May 30, 2015 United Filipino Council of Hawaii Super Mrs. Hawaii Filipina 2015, 7:00 PM; Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel Coral Ballroom; Contact Persons: President Mrs. Maria AF Etrata (808) 392-2962; Pageant Chair: Ms. Gladys Menor (808) 366-2317 May 31, 2015 Wellness Sunday A Zumbathon Event with Philippine Nurses Association of Hawaii, a fundraising for the upcoming 36th PNAA National Convention on July 22-26, 2015 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort. Hosted by Troy and Rose Mendoza and Hawaii ZIN Instructors. Radford High School Cafeteria 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM; Donation: $10.00 (Prepay)/ $15.00 (At the door); Contact Persons: Rose Mendoza 371-3902, Ramon Sumibcay 489-7148, Tina Salvador 426-6183. Please bring a towel and water bottle. June 5, 2015 Ilocos Surian Association of Hawaii (ISAH); President Elpidio Quirino Leadership & Humanitarian Awards Gala; Hawaii Prince Hotel BallroomCost: $65.00; Contact Persons: Danny Villaruz 7780233; Amado Yoro 699-9814 June 6, 2015 Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC); Miss Oahu Filipina 2015 Scholarship Pageant; Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom Cost: $65 per person; Contact Persons: Armi Oliver Farinas 221-0667; Alex Vergara 551-4303 June 7, 2015 Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) in cooperation with the Philippine Consulate General; Filipino Ethnic Food Fair, a kick-off event to celebrate the 117th Anniversary of Philippine Independence. Philippine Consulate grounds. 10:30 AM-2:00 PM Tickets: $35; Contact Persons: Amelia Casamina Cabatu 282-2033;Melga Gendrano 383-7986; Allan Alvarez 3928230; Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 and Cecilia Villafuerte 371-8538
July 4-10, 2015 10th Ambassador, Consuls General and Tourism Directors Tour to the Philippines. Manila and Cebu 6 Days and 5 nights of Philippine hospitality. Join, explore and experience the annual special tour to the Philippines with Philippine Diplomats and visit the cultural heritage sites of Manila and Cebu. For more details, contact the Philippine Consulate General Honolulu (808) 595-6316-19; Aloha Tours and Travel (808) 845-2218; Everlasting Services, Inc. (808) 841-2881; Noble Travel (808) 244-4609;Panda Travel Inc. (808) 732-6691 Ext. 3;Philippine Airlines Hawaii (808) 840-1109 or (808) 833-0527 July 18, 2015 Filipino Nurses Organization of Hawaii (FNOH); Annual Nursing Excellence Awards and Biennial Installation; Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort Tapa Ballroom 6 PM Cost: $100 Attire: Evening Formal; Contact Persons: Luanne Long 7540594; Penny Chung 221-6212 and Amie Guillermo 358-5394 July 18, 2015 Kalayaan Philippines Hawaii International Presents 1st Mr. Pinoy Hawaii and Huwaran Awards; Pacific Beach Hotel 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Ben Pulido 421-9747, Lynne Gutierrez 728-1700 July 22-26, 2015 36th PNAA National Convention PhilippineNurses Association of America, Inc.; Host Chapter: Philippine Nurses Association of Hawaii; Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort Contact Persons: Tina Salvador, Hawaii Host Overall Chair 426-6183; Marife Armstrong, PNA Hawaii President 542-5133; Ramon Sumibcay, PNA Hawaii President Elect 489-7148 July 24-26, 2015 United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH) Convention; Pacific Beach Hotel Contact Person: President Maria Etrata 392-2962; Lynne Gutierrez 728-1700, Dwayne Bueno 226-0392 July 25, 2015 United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH) Miss Hawaii Filipina Pacific Beach Hotel Ballroom 6:00 PM; Contact Person: President Maria Etrata 392-2962, Lynne Gutierrez; 728-1700, Dwayne Bueno 226-0392 August 15, 2015 Estilo Pilipino 3 Fashion Show By world renowned Fashion Designers Richard Papa, Edgar Madamba, and Edgar Sandiego. Pomaikai Ballroom at Dole Cannery Iwilei 6:30 PM Cost: $50; Contact Person: Armi Oliver Farinas 221-0667 August 21, 2015 Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii; Parents of the Year Awards; Empress Restaurant in Chinatown, 6:00 pm Cost $40; The PCFH is accepting nominations for the Parents of the Year Awards. Contact Persons: Leo Gozar 630-6268; Janice Sevilla348-6052; Lina Longboy 421-7381
June 14, 2015 Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC); OFCC Annual Convention; Philippine Consulate General of Honolulu, Lanai; Contact Persons: Alex Vergara 551-4303; Loida Yamamoto 679-9540; Jake Manegdeg 524-6993; Amado Yoro 669-9814; Danny Villaruz 778-0233
August 29, 2015 Adult Foster Homecare Association of Hawaii (AFHA) Oahu Chapter General Membership Meeting and Expo; Fil Com Center, Waiphau8:30AM-3:00PM; Contact Persons: Norma Tan 358-4985,Maribel Tan 384-0494
June 20, 2015 Cebuano Association 30th anniversary and installation of new members and officers. 5:30 pm at the Sunset Lanai Restaurant at Camp HM Smith at Halawa Heights. For more information, contact Chair FirmoDayao at 206-817-5864.
September 5, 2015 INCAT- Ilocos Norte College of Arts and Trade; 16th Anniversary, Coronation of Ms.Incatand Scholarship Presentation; Empress Restaurant in Chinatown 5:30 – 11:00 PM Cost $40; Contact Person: Augustine Longboy 294-1446
September 12, 2015 Filipino Women’s Civic Club Annual Maria Clara Ball; Pomaikai Ballrooms at Dole Cannery Iwilei 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Cecilia Villafuerte 371-8538 September 18, 2015 The Filipino Community Center holds its annual fundraiser. Theme: “Celebrating our Plantation Legacy”; Sheraton Waikiki Hotel; 5:30 pm; For volunteer opportunities, please call Event Chairperson Bennette Misalucha at Filcom Center at 808 680-0288. October 24, 2015 IlocosSurian Association of Hawaii (ISAH); Mrs. Ilocos Surian Association of Hawaii Pageant; Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus BallroomCost: $65.00; Contact Persons: Danny Villaruz 778-0233; Lina Mercado 526-9009; Amado Yoro 699-9814 November 14, 2015 Filipino Business Women’s Association; Annual Kimona Ball and honoring the Filipino Buisiness Woman of the Year; Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom 6:00 PM Contact Persons: Nancy Atmospera Walch 778-3832, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Lina Mercado 382-7751 November 29, 2015 Alliance of Residential Care Administrators (ARCA); Annual Christmas Celebration and Inauguration of Officers; Hale Koa Hotel- Banyan Tree Showroom 6:00 PM; Contact Person: Lilia Fajotina 291-1706
Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a familiar face in the community, often emceeing events and parties. A veteran radio announcer, she often guests-hosts on KNDI radio. In addition to other affiliations, Amelia is the current Chair of the Philippine Celebration Coordinating Committee of Hawaii. She owns her own adult care business and is happily married to Arnold Cabatu and they live in Salt Lake with their daughter Armay.
December 12, 2015 Adult Foster Homecare Association of Hawaii (AFHA); Christmas Party and Coronation of Mrs. AFHA. Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Norma Tan 358-4985, Maribel Tan 384-0494
hawaii May 30, 2015 The Kona Visayan Club presents: The 3rd Annual Philippine Cultural Festival and Terno Ball; Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa Keauhou Convention Center; 5:30 PM Pre-event reception Cultural & Vendor Exhibits; 7:00 PM Dinner and Entertainment Tickets: $50 Adults, $25 Keiki (12 under). For more information go to Facebook.com/Konavisayan club June 27, 2015 Big Island Filipino Community Council (BIFCC) Miss Hawaii Island Filipina 2015 Scholarship Pageant AfookChinen Civic Auditorium, Hilo, Hawaii; BIFCC is recruiting young women of Filipino descent or part Filipino, from 18 to 27 years old. Pre- sale tickets are $12.00, at the door $15.00. Contact person, Pageant chair Christina Ranan at 1-808-640-4180 or Melba Daak at 1- 808- 981-2909.
KAUAI May 16, 2015 Kauai Philippine Cultural Center 4th Annual Fundraiser Kauai Marriott Resorts Ballroom-5:30PM Lihue, Kauai Hawaii; Cost: $85.00 per person & Sponsor Tables available; Contact Person: Eddie Topenio 1-808651-8433 June 6, 2015 Kauai Filipino Community Council (KFCC); Miss Kauai Filipina 2015 Scholarship Pageant; Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall; Lihue, Kauai Hawaii; KFCC are actively recruiting young ladies for the pageant. Recruitment deadline: March 21, 2015; Contact person: Pageant chair: Thelma Pascual 1-808651-3022 August 8, 2015 Congress of Visayan Organization (COVO) Annual Convention. The daytime session will be at the King Kaumu’ali’i Elem. School Cafeteria from 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. The banquet in the evening will be at the Kauai Beach Resort Hotel starting at 6 p.m. Contact: Virgie Cruzada at 808 652 2176 or May Mizuno at 741 4503.
mAUI May 22-May23, 2015 Binhi At Ani-Maui Barrio Fiesta War Memorial Gym Complex, Wailuku, Maui Hawaii; Friday May 22, 5-10pm; Saturday May 23, 10am-10pm; Contact Person: Flor Garcia 1-808- 281-2304
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 3
B y R A D I A N T COR D ERO
Lessons From Trees
serving The community since 1987 Publisher Mary Llanos Cordero Managing Editor Bennette Espineli Misalucha Director of Design Armando Dela Cruz Busmente Production Manager Alice Llanos Busmente Assistant Editor Radiant Cordero Copy Editor Danielle Evangelista Photographers/Graphics Brandon dela Cruz Noah Felipe Gabe de Lis0o Jeff Orig James Ramos COLUMNISTS Edna Alikpala Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Jesse Bacon II Nancy Bernal Cesar Bonilla Alice Llanos Busmente Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao ZenyMuyot Angie Santiago Perfecto Yasay Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim Randy Cortez Radiant Cordero Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus Brandon dela Cruz Christian Evangelista Imelda Gasmen Veronika Geronimo Leo Gozar Ben Gutierrez Kathleen Lee Carmela Minaya Gladys Quinto Marrone Gladys Menor John Pagaragan Paola Rodelas Judy Relosimon Sandra Sagisi Nicole Velasco Jason Ubay MichiVillaruz Neighbor Island Bureau Maui Kit Zulueta Jeremy Zane Big Island Mil Asuncion Jane Clement Dr. Margarita Hopkins Kauai Virgie Cruzada Liza Trinidad Marynell Valenzuela ADVERTISING SALES MarivicAldaya Mary Cordero Annabel Cabebe Florence Tan McCollom Lydia Kamiya Joni Redick-Yundt Rudy Bautista 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 located at 2221 Liliha St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
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As I stand in vrikasana (tree pose) after half an hour of a repetition of chatarunga dandasana (high to low planks), core-focused poses, and having my head below my heart, I think to myself just how amazing this yoga pose is and how symbolic it is to me. The pose is tremendous as it fosters both inner and outer strength. It may look like a relieving pose and easy to accomplish, but it is one that - like most yoga poses - encompasses so much more than it appears. Tree pose not only trains you to balance, but it also improves your spine, thighs, calves, and ankles. Working upward to your head and mind, you’re also working on your focus and concentration to shut out restlessness and distraction. Tr e e p o s e t o m e i s about remaining grounded through your roots (toes and bottoms of your feet). Those roots symbolize the ability to anchor ourselves firmly by our beliefs and life values. Besides the symbolic components of a tree incorporated into tree pose, we can also learn real-life lessons from actual trees…. Well-Balanced and Unique - Trees grow where they are planted, and root themselves firmly to the ground they live in. We can learn from trees through this manner by growing our roots and maintaining them by knowing who we are, where we come from, and where we want to go so that we can experience each moment fully. Adaptive and Acceptance - A tree can be planted by itself, or with a
dozen or hundreds of other trees. Whether alone or just one in a million, trees accept things they cannot change and continuously work to help themselves and those around them to thrive. Just as working together is important, self-awareness is also key to a satisfied life. We must be must be willing to adapt in order to heal ourselves, learn, and grow. Cohabitate - History and present times show us sad occurrences of violence actions and hate from neighbor-to-neighbor, country-to-country, and more. We are all living together on one Earth and the lessons we can learn from trees is invaluable and may possibly open others’ minds to be willing to live together. Sustenance - Trees access nutrients from the ground through their roots that is then transported from through the core and to the rest of its branches and leaves. Without taking proper nutrients in both our physical and mental state, we are not assisting others nor ourselves. Nourishment
also comes from the people we choose to surround ourselves with. ~~~ Another aspect that helps in growing our roots and selves is our culture. Last weekend, we had the Filipino Fiesta at Kapiolani Park. The event was a part of the Flores De Mayo celebration and showcases our Filipino culture through its religion, arts, and food. Culture is so integrated into our lives that it has the innate ability to determine how we address others (mano po), make decisions (rice or potatoes?), and more. Other than that, being rooted into your culture also allows us the opportunity to share it with others who may be unfamiliar with our respective culture. What is great about events like the Filipino Fiesta, the Filipino Film Festival, Filipino Martial Arts exhibitions and workshops, and the upcoming Filipino Food Fair on Sunday, June 7, 2015 is that these events a l l o w H a w a i i ’s F i l i p i n o community to share their culture.
The Filipino Food Fair, put together by the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii, will bring people to the Philippine Consulate of Hawaii where the Philippine culture is highly represented by its countrymen. But, it will also allow people to learn and experience the regional cuisine of the Philippines. The Philippines is so unique amongst its people, regions, and islands, and with the Fair, food will be able to transcend the differing languages, and aesthetics and come together as one community in Honolulu. ~~~ We are so lucky that we have all these opportunities to enjoy. However, as we partake of these events, let us remember ourselves, our health, our loved ones, and our community. Let’s take the lessons we can learn from trees and think about how we can apply it to our lives in the betterment of our future and what we can offer others.
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
By Bennette Espineli Misalucha
Fil-Am Courier Managing Editor
Our cover....
The members of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii take a moment for a group photo at the historic Philippine Consulate building on Pali Highway. Photo was shot by the talented Jeff Orig. Cover concept by Noah Felipe of OrigMedia. Jeff and Noah can both be reached at www.origmedia. com or by calling (808) 4479559.
Bringing Culture Forward
Look up the word, “liaison” and you will discover that it means someone “who acts as a link to assist communication or cooperation between groups of people.” It is a reference that aptly describes the loosely organized group called the “ P h i l i p p i n e C e l e b ra t i o n s Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH)” which is now being led by the indefatigable Amelia Casamina Cabatu. According to CasaminaCabatu, the PCCCH is the outreach arm of the Philippine Consulate General to the Filipino community in Hawaii. “We serve as the liaison whose purpose is to plan, organize and conduct social
and cultural activities. We want to promote a better understanding of our Filipino identity and share our customs and culture among members of Filipino-American community and the greater community in Hawaii. We also aim to foster closer ties between the people of the Philippines and Hawaii.” The PCCCH has always considered itself as the most appropriate go-between that links the Consulate and t h e c o m m u n i ty b e c a u s e with so many community organizations in Hawaii, numbering in the hundreds, this group makes it easier to navigate the unwritten protocols in local traditions. Composed of 25 members, the group is a cross-section of the various groups and organizations that populate Hawaii’s cultural landscape.
The members are all leaders in their own right, and bring to the table, resources and connections to manpower, finance and access to other collaborations. It was during the tenure of Consul General Rolando Gregorio that the PCCCH was first organized in December 2000. What started as a need to tap into the energies of the Filipino community leaders to organize events involving the Philippine Consulate General, has since evolved into a formidable group of people who can collectively galvanize and produce major events. Casamina-Cabatu states there are three major events in the annual Filipino community calendar, the planning of which, the PCCCH typically spearheads. They include the Day of Valor, or “Araw ng Kagitingan” in April, the
Philippine Independence Day celebration in June and the Pamaskong Handog or Pasko saKonsulado, the Christmas offering in December. The Araw ng Kagitingan commemorates the Fall of Bataan, a day marked by courage and valor, and which is typically celebrated with a simple but moving ceremony at the Punchbowl cemetery grounds where a marker for the Fall of Bataan is located. Complete with the musical renditions of a military band, a 21-gun salute as well as the presence of top government and military officials, the event honors not only the fallen soldiers but also the historical ties forged during World War II that bind the United States to the Philippines. On the other hand, the Independence Day celebration marks the day
PCCCH Members sample some of the food that would be served during the first food fair at the Philippine Consulate, scheduled in June.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 5
PCCCH Chair Amelia Casamina-Cabatu accompanied by Dr. Arnold Villafuerte, offers a floral arrangement during the Araw Ng Kagitingan Ceremonies at Punchbowl.
when the Philippines declared its independence from Spain, which is designated as June 12. In years past, the celebration can be as elaborate as a major dinner with 600 people or a simple fare with a flag raising ceremony at the Consulate. This year, the PCCCH is starting a new tradition which is the Food Fair. The brainchild of current Consul-General Gina Jamoralin, the Food Fair will celebrate the delicious cuisine from the various regions of the Philippines. (More information in the accompanying story) The Pamaskong Handog or Pasko sa Konsulado, on the other hand, brings into focus the Philippine Christmas tradition which is considered the longest Christmas celebration in the world. Since Christmas is usually a time for families to gather, these events aim to provide an opportunity for Filipino families to share the Yuletide spirit. In between these events, the PCCCH plays hosts, along with the Philippine Consulate General to many Philippine and US government officials who may be visiting Hawaii. “These receptions reflect the generous spirit that permeates Hawaii and its allembracing Aloha spirit.” Casamina-Cabatu affirms that the PCCCH has proven itself more than relevant when one considers its milestones and accomplishments. Amongst the many milestones that the PCCCH has achieved, the one she finds memorable was the visit of President Benigno Aquino III during the APEC Summit held in Honolulu in 2011. “It drew more than 1000 people to this special dinner held in his honor at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort. It was an astounding success. It was a challenging event because of the security hurdles that had to be overcome.” “The Consulate was then led by Consul General Leoncio Cardenas while PCCCH was then chaired by Bennette Misalucha. I had the privilege of hosting the event with Larry Ordonez and this was
truly a professional hosting milestone for me as well.” There were other iconic accomplishments that Casamina-Cabatu remembers. “For example, the PCCCH coordinated, along with the Philippine Consulate General and the AFP Liasion Office to the US Pacific Command, a welcome reception for the Officers and crew of the BRP Ramon Alcaraz in July 2013. This warship was the second acquisition of the Philippine Government from the United States of America. The first was BRP Gregorio del Pilar in July of 2011.The heartwarming gratitude of the officers and crewmembers of these warships, some whom have never visited our islands, was overwhelming and the PCCCH exhibited the true meaning of ALOHA to these men and women of the Philippine Armed Forces.” In addition, the PCCCH has stepped up during disaster relief efforts by partnering and coordinating with other Filipino organizations and local state government to raise much needed support for those affected by the latest calamity. When asked what drives her to give back to her community, Casamina-Cabatu becomes philosophical: “I have been privileged to be surrounded by and mentored by community leaders such as Auntie Maggie Domingo and Manang Maria Etrata. They invited me to become a member of the PCCCH. With the recommendation of the talented program director and once chair, Leo Gozar, I hosted the Philippine Independence Day Celebration in 2007 when the popular rock and roll band “The Bloomfields” came to Hawaii. I have been involved ever since. Our officers and members are selected and then elected to their respected offices. I am privileged to lead as chair this year.” “As a local born Filipina, it gives me great pride and joy to be able to embrace my identity. But my involvement with the Filipino community began during my college
The crew from BRP Ramon Alcaraz were welcomed with aloha by members of the PCCCH.
years when I was asked to become a DJ and ultimately became a news director for 1540 Kiss Am Filipino Radio. I hold an FCC radio operator permit since February 1987. Back then as a young, energetic Filipina, we formed the Oahu Filipino Jaycee Woman Organization and I became its first president. There were a number of us including Mary Llanos Cordero and the late Marlene Manzano just to name a few leaders. Through the years, I have lived my passion by sharing a God given talent by hosting many private celebrations and public community functions.” Casamina-Cabatu underscored that the PCCCH
only works best when the Committee functions as a team, “I want to thank the members of the PCCCH for their commitment and dedication, especially to my co-chairs of the Filipino Food Fair, Melga Gendrano, Bernadette Fajardo, Cecilia Villafuerte and Allan Alvarez.” As Casamina-Cabatu and the PCCCH team work hard to put together the details for the Food festival in June, she enthusiastically calls out an invitation to the community: “We invite you and your family to a fun-filled Sunday morning on June 7, 2015 at the Philippine Consulate Grounds from 10:30am – 2:00 pm and enjoy the myriad of Philippine
Cuisine, entertainment and get a chance to win a round trip ticket to the Philippines, all in celebration of the 117th anniversary of Philippine Independence!” It is certain, the community will be heeding that call. Bennette Espineli Misalucha is the Fil-Am Courier’s Managing Editor. She has been affiliated with the Courier since 1987 as a contributing writer and as Managing Editor since April 2013. She started her career as a journalist, and was a reporter/ producer both in Hawaii (at KHON Channel 2 News) and in Cebu, Philippines
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
By Bennette Espineli Misalucha
Fil-Am Courier Managing Editor
Fo o d i s a u n i v e r s a l language that all of us can understand. It is no wonder that for this year’s Philippine Independence Day celebration in Hawaii, food —most specifically the Philippine regional cuisines— was chosen to be the focus of attention. Think about it: our cultural cuisine defines us. It also unites our community as we delight in the full flavors that we grew up with; we relish the taste that brings us back to memories of some homemade dish that our moms made. Adobo, sinigang, pinakbet, ginataan, pancit, lumpia. Who will not salivate at the mere mention of those dishes? This June 7, 2015, the Consulate grounds will be the venue for the first ever Filipino Food Fair which is being sponsored by the Philippine Consulate General and the Philippine Celebrations coordinating Committee of Hawaii.
THE PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL AND THE PCCCH Present the
First Filipino Food Fair
The project was initiated by the current ConsulGeneral Gina Jamoralin, who wanted to explore the idea of a Food Festival Week involving Filipino restaurants and Filipino chefs highlighting Filipino recipes on their menu. According to PCCCH Chair Amelia CasaminaCabatu, the PCCH chose to use this fair as a kick-off
reception to the annual Philippine Independence Day Celebration. This year marks the 117th year anniversary of Philippine independence from Spain. Casamina-Cabatu explains that there is more here than meets the eye: “First and foremost, we would like to bring back the grandeur of the Philippine Consulate grounds and transform this as a signature event for the Consulate.” Upon arrival, attendees will be greeted by different food stations featuring ethnic regional foods. Amongst those featured will be the cuisines of the
Ilocano or Central Luzon region, Tagalog, Visayan and Bicol regions and then another food station featuring desserts from Red Ribbon Bake Shops. In addition, a booth will also offer “street food.” Casamina adds: “To sweeten the appetite, a halo halo station for dessert. To complete the menu, hot piping crispy Lechon and its side dishes to satisfy any ones palate.” All-day entertainment promises to bring additional ambiance to the celebration. Tickets are available by calling the PCCCH chair at 282-2033 and all ticket
holders will be eligible to win a round trip ticket to the Philippines, courtesy of Philippine Airlines. Casamina-Cabatu is optimistic that this food fair will bring in new enthusiasts: “With the anticipated success of this year’s Food Fair, we can only hope for more participation from different restaurants next year. We hope to keep on expanding the menu to highlight food from other regions so the community can experience the full breath of our diverse Filipino cuisine.”
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 7
Festival showcases Philippine “Street Food” The Food Festival will feature regional cuisine from the Ilocos, Bicol,Tagalog and Visayan areas. One of the most interesting offerings this year however, is the idea of “street food”. Philippine Street food, also known as Pagkaing Kalye, are the type of food one buys from peddlers on the street. The preparation usually involves grilling, frying and steaming. The basic ingredient is all types of meats marinated in soy sauce, vinegar pepper and garlic. Another marinade for this is made by mixing soy sauce, ketsup and some cooking oil, then skewered on a bamboo stick and grilled for the about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. An optional sauceis a mixture of vinegar, chili pepper and sugar. Here’s some Philippine Street Food lingo: - Chicken feet or known as “Adidas” - Chicken flood or known as “Betamax” - Pig Ear as knows as
“Walkman” - Chicken gizzard or knows a “balun-balunan” - Chicken heart or known as “atay ng manok” - Chicken liver or known as “atay ng manok” - Intestines (Isaw) as “IUD” - “ K w e k - k w e k ” a r e quail boiled eggs dipped on orange batter and they are deep fried until crispy. - Fish ball or known as “Bola-Bola”. FILIPINO STREET FOODS “Isaw” is a street food from the Philippines, made from barbecued pig or chicken intestines.The intestines are cleaned, turned inside out, and cleaned again, repeating the process several times. They are then either boiled, then grilled, or immediately grilled on sticks. They are usually dipped in “suka/ sukang pinakurat” (Filipino term for vinegar with onions, peppers, and other spices) then eaten. Chicken feet are a part of the chicken that is cooked
*Courtesy of Seafood City
in China, Indonesia, Korea, M a l ay s i a , Tr i n i d a d a n d Tobago, Ukraine, Russia, Romania, Moldova, Jamaica, South Africa, Peru, Mexico, Philippines and Vietnam. Most of the edible tissue on the feet consists of skin and tendons, with no muscle. This gives the feet a distinct texture different from the rest of the chicken’s meat. Their many small bones make them difficult to eat for some [who?]; these are often picked before serving. Being mostly skin, chicken feet are very gelatinous. In the Philippines, chicken feet are marinated in a mixture of calamansi, spices and brown sugar before being grilled. A popular staple in Philippine street food, chicken feet are commonly known as “adidas” (named after the athletic shoe brand Adidas).Chicken feet is also an ingredient in Philippine adobo. Kwek-kwek is a tempuralike Filipino street food made by deep-frying orange batter covered hard-boiled quail eggs. Tokneneng is usually served with a spiced vinegarbased dip. Fish balls are a common food in Southeast Asia and China made from “fish paste”. The most common type of Filipino fish balls are known as bola-bola (literally, “ball-ball”). It is somewhat
flat in shape and most often made from cuttlefish or pollock and served with a sweet and spicy sauce or with a thick, black, sweet and sour sauce. Fish balls in the Philippines are sold by street vendors pushing wooden deep-frying carts. The balls are served skewered, offered with three kinds of dipping sauces: spicy (white/orange colored) – vinegar, water, diced onions and garlic; sweet (brown gravy colored) – corn starch, banana ketchup, sugar and salt; and sweet/sour (amber or deeper orange colored) –
the sweet variety with lots of small hot chilis added. Dark sauces are rare, as these are soy sauce-based and soy sauce is expensive for street food. Skewered chicken hearts are one of the hardestto-get-by Filipino street foods because of its limited quantities in grocery stores. Chicken hearts are cooked by adding salt and pepper, vinegar, barbecue sauce, and skewering then grilling them.
Submitted by Seafood City Supermarket.
PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
By Matt Amore
Born and raised in Hawaii, I did not really think too much about my cultiral identity. As a child, I was unaware and too young to understand its importance. Today however, my Filipino cultural identity is something I am very proud of; something that I enjoy sharing with others. In 2013, I took my first Filipino class at UH Manoa. Initially, I was surprised that many of my classmates were a little uncertain about their Filipino identity. Towards the end of the class, however, their feelings changed: many of my classmates said that they are now more proud of being Filipino. Through the curriculum of the Filipino Language Program, students are able to get back in touch with their culture. In all the Filipino classes I have taken, I noticed that my classmates and I grew closer because we were learning more than just academics, we were learning our Filipino culture, we were learning about ourselves. I have not seen this level of kinship amongst my classmates in non-Filipino classes. There are two important events in the Filipino Language Program calendar. They are Dramafest and Songfest. These two events allow students to learn Filipino through movies and songs. After participating in these
PROUD TO BE PINOY:
How my College Experience Shaped my Cultural Identity My family planting trees in Colawin on Christmas Day
events, I pushed myself to speak Filipino anytime I had an opportunity; from speaking in Filipino with my Lola and mom, to ordering food at Max’s and Nandings, to asking questions in class; to speaking with my fluent friends. I also asked my parents if we could subscribe for TFC so that I could learn by watching movies/teleseryes/ shows. I was grateful for what the Filipino Language Program did for me, so I decided to give back by becoming the Treasurer of the Katipunan Club this year. This semester, I was honored to be a part of the recently formed Glee Club: Himig ng Katipunan. My sister and I were the only non-fluent members in the organization, so this was an outlet of cultural immersion. The other members translated lyrics so my sister and I could understand what the songs meant; they taught us how to pronounce the words so we could sound authentic. My sister and I met good
Himig ng Katipunan after a performance at the Filipino Fiesta 2015
people, made friends, and learned Filipino language through our involvement with Himig, and we are truly grateful. A culturally eye-opening experience for me occurred during my second visit to the Philippines for Pasko 2013. I spent Christmas in Colawin, located in Argao, Cebu. This small farming village in the mountain was where my Lolo and his family lived. His parents planted a mango tree each time they had a grandchild. They would not give presents to the grandchildren, but instead, put the proceeds from the mango tree into a bank account each time the grandchildren excelled in an activity, had a birthday, or for a special celebration. When a grandchild graduated from high school, the grandparents would turn over the account to the grandchild to help pay for college. At the same time, the grandparents would open a new account, repeat the process, and turn over the account to the grandchild on their wedding day so that the grandchild would have some money to start a family. I, along with my cousins, planted trees in Colawin in honor of this family tradition on Christmas 2013. I was honored to perpetuate this family practice. To me, being Filipino means to be an exemplar of these values: perseverance, hard-work, respect, hospitality, and compassion. These values are deeply
My friends and classmates from my first Filipino class at our Katipunan Banquet
intertwined with two definitive Filipino values: maka-diyos and makapamilya. My favorite Filipino word, bayanihan, is a combination o f m a ny o f t h e a f o r e mentioned values. This word literally translates to “becoming a community.” The origins of this word come from people helping their neighbors lift up, and move their house to another location. Now bayanihan is used to describe the Filipino spirit of helping one another. In bayanihan, there is also the word bayani, which means hero. Therefore, by helping others, one becomes a hero. Bayanihan is a beautiful word because it promotes cooperation and teamwork without expecting compensation. In a capitalistic American society that promotes economic logic, that states charity is inefficient and rationalizes a self-centered way of thinking, a word like bayanihan seems foreign, yet it is desperately needed. I believe that we have to
bring and share the spirt of bayanihan with others so that one day, bayanihan can be more ubiquitous through American culture. When I think of the Filipino’s defining values, and when I dwell on my family history and practices, I cannot help but embrace my culture. It is at the core of who I am. I know it was a journey to get to that state. I hope other Filipino Americans can someday find their way there. In the meantime, I will attempt to speak my best Tagalog and wear my Filipino identity on my sleeve. And when anyone asks: Yes, I am proud to be Pinoy
Matthew Amore is a second generation Filipino American born in Hawaii to Mike Amore and Dr. Tessie Davide Amore . He will graduate this month with a Bachelors of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance, Minor in Music, and a Certificate in Spanish Language. In June, he will move to Seattle to work as a financial analyst for the Boeing Company.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 9
By Dr. Alfred Sison
In this column, I offer two short pieces about purpose and promises. The first is more about where we can find it or maybe realize that all of us have an innate sense of where we belong and what we are as individual. The other is more about where our purpose and choices can take us if we promise ourselves to act and behave with a purpose. May begins the time for graduation season across our Hawaii school system as well as across colleges, universities in our nation and beyond. Graduation represent a myriad of things but for me the words and ideas that represent ‘resilience,’ ‘perseverance’, and ‘accomplishment’ come to mind. Graduations also represent new beginnings to forward with the wisdom and skill sets learned. To the graduates reading, I hope after reading these two pieces one can find that one’s purpose and skill sets have been innately present through your academic journey and you have just touched on the tip of the iceberg of what you are capable of in the future. Congratulations to the Class of 2015! And to the rest of those reading this column, in the words of Mr. Larson, let us all ‘promise ourselves’ to give some time to reading his top ten list of choices to make everyday.
Promise Yourself …Purpose According to an old Hindu legend… There was once a time when all human beings were gods, but they so abused their divinity that Brahma, the chief god, decided to take it away from them and hide it where it could never be found. Where to hide their divinity was the question. So Brahma called a council of the gods to help him decide. “Let’s bury it deep in the earth,” said the gods. But Brahma answered, “No, that will not do because humans will dig into the earth and find it. Then the gods said, “Let’s sink it in the deepest ocean.” But Brahma said, “No, not there, for they will learn to dive into the ocean and will find it. Then the gods said, “Let’s take it to the top of the highest mountain and hide it there.” But once again Brahma replied, “No, that will not do either, because they will eventually climb every mountain and once again take up their divinity.”
Then the gods gave up and said, “We do not know where to hide it, because it seems that there is no place on earth or in the sea that human beings will not eventually reach. Brahma thought for a long time and then said, “Here is what we will do. We will hide their divinity deep in the center of their own being, for humans will never think to look for it there.” All the gods agreed that this was the perfect hiding place, and the deed was done. And since that time humans have been going up and down the earth, digging, diving, climbing, and exploring–searching for something already within themselves. ~ Author unknown What if one day you woke up and decided to ”Promise yourself: 1. To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. 2. To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet. 3. To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
4. To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true. 5. To think only of the best, to work only for the best and expect only the best. 6. To be enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own. 7. To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to greater achievements of the future. 8 . To w e a r a c h e e r f u l countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
9. To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others. 10. To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.” ***Your Forces and How to Use Them – 1912 by Christian D Larson.
Alfred A. Sison, MA, LMFT, PsyD; “Dr. Al” is a licensed clinical psychologist with a subspeciality license in marriage and family therapy. He services individuals, couples, and familes through the therapeutic process, and maintains a private practice in Honolulu, HI. He holds a Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD), Clinical Psychology degree from Argosy University, Hawaii Campus and a Master of Arts (MA), Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy Specialty from the American School of Professional Psychology, Hawaii Campus. He completed his undergraduate studies with a degree in Bachelor of Arts (BA), Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley. He can be reached at alspsy@gmail.comOr contact number; 808-393-0320
PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 11
PHILIPPINE CELEBRATIONS COORDINATING COMMITTEE In Partnership with
PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
AMELIA CASAMINA CABATU Chair
ROSSITA PATTON Secretary
MELGA GENDRANO Vice Chair
GLADYS MENOR Assistant Secretary
ALLAN ALVAREZ Treasurer
CECILIA VILLAFUERTE Assistant Treasurer
WILLIAM CUDAL Auditor
EDDIE AGAS, SR.* Member
EDNA Y. ALIKPALA* Member
BERNIE ARDIENTE Member
SERAFIN COLMENARES, JR.* Member
FAYE CUDAL Member
MAGGIE DOMINGO* Member
MARIA A. F. ETRATA* Member
BERNADETTE D. FAJARDO* Member
LEO ROJAS GOZAR* Member
EDITH GUDOY Member
LYNNE GUTIERREZ Member
MARIA JO FARINA Member
BENNETTE MISALUCHA* Member
ARNOLD VILLAFUERTE* Member
ANGIE SANTIAGO Member
RUBY SARMIENTO Member
JANICE SEVILLA Member
ETHEL ALIKPALA WARD* * Past Chairs
ABELINA MADRID SHAW Legal Counsel
Edna Butay Event Coordinator
Mimi Gozar Event Coordinator
(Not in photo) Connie Ramirez Event Coordinator
PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
GINA JAMORALIN Consul General
ROBERTO BERNARDO Deputy Consul General
JOYLEEN SANTOS Vice Consul
JEFFREY DeMESA Protocol Officer
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
By Dr. Christopher Tortora, M.D. Medical Director of Hawaiian Eye Center
In Hawaii, it’s pretty much beach weather all year long, which is one reason most of us are happy to call this place home. However, the more time you spend outside enjoying the sun, the more you’re exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light isn’t just damaging to the skin, but also damaging to the eyes. May is designated UV Awareness Month by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Exposure to the sun is hazardous anytime duringdaylight hours even i f t h e r e ’s a n ove r c a s t . However, UV radiation is especially severe from 10
May is UV Awareness Month Protect Your Eyes From the Sun a.m. to 4 p.m. UV radiation from sunlight can burn the surface of the eyes directly or indirectly from reflections offsand, water and pavement. UV damage to the eyes often goes unnoticed but
accumulates over time. UV exposure can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, skin cancer around the eyes, and pterygium—an unsightly, noncancerous growth on the
surface of the eye that can impair vision. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss for those 50 years of age and older, and nearly 24.5 million Americans over the age of 40 suffer from cataracts. The best way to prevent eye damage from the sun is by wearing sunglasses. No matter the style or cost, choose sunglasses with labels that state “100% protection” or “UV 400.” Wrap-around sunglasses
that extend around the temples and a hat will add further protection from indirect sunlight. Eye care professionals highly recommend that everyone—from children to adults—wear sunglasses year-round whenever spending anytime outside. Protecting your vision from harmful UV rays by throwing on sunglasses is both simple and effective.
Dr. Christopher Tortora, a board certified ophthalmologist, is host of “The Hawaiian Eye Show,” a weekly informational radio program about healthy vision broadcast live every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KHVH 830 AM/rebroadcast at 9 p.m. on KHBZ 990 AM. He and his colleagues at the Hawaiian Eye Center are committed to educating the public about the importance of preventative eye care. To learn more about a variety of eye health issues, please call the Hawaiian Eye Center at 621-8448 or visit www. HawaiianEye.com and www.Facebook.com/HawaiianEyeCenter, where “life has never looked better.”
If you are interested in a yearly subscription, please call 595.8787 for more information.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 13
By Drew Astolfi
For ten and a half years I have been the director of FACE – Faith Action for Community E q u i t y, a f a i t h b a s e d community organization on Oahu and Maui, and now that I am departing I got a chance to reflect on the way that the Filipino community has shaped FACE’s work. From its inception, Filipino clergy and lay leaders have led the work of our community organization. Our most recent project, the Hawaii Coalition for Immigration Reform, just passed a bill to allow undocumented immigrants to get drivers licenses in Hawaii, and FACE was able to convince the State Department of Transportation (albeit via a lawsuit) to finally translate the driver’s test into Ilocano last year. The success of FACE is rooted in Bayanihan – the idea of mutual effort for the common good. In fact over my desk for many years was a large photo of a Botong Francisco mural of house moving, and I used the photo as a reflection piece to launch many listening process trainings over the years. FA C E i s m a d e u p o f almost 50 institutions, mostly
FACE in Action
ALOHA TO MY FILIPINO TRIBE! churches and temples, but also the labor union Local 5 and the Community Development Corporation EAH. FACE was founded back in 1996 by a set of ministers who had come to believe that the power sharing arrangements in modern Hawaii that were created during the social revolution of the 1950s were increasingly breaking down. “The sense of local identity as well as basic equity seemed to be getting squeezed,” explained Rev. Sam Domingo, one of the founders and a past President of FACE. “Back in the 90’s we felt like there was a trend starting of less local ownership of businesses, resources and capital. And over time this trend has gotten worse – hardly any hotels are locally owned anymore for example. We created FACE to be a bulwark for our values as the world seemed less friendly to them.” The listening process is the heart of FACE’s work. All of the issues FACE works on are defined by its membership through a process of one-onone and house meetings. FACE leaders and staff were taught this process b y Jessica Hernandez White, an
A famous painting by Filipino Artist Francisco Botong which depicts the concept of Bayanihan.
organizer from the Zone One TONDO Organization in the Manila who moved to Hawaii to help local clergy found FACE in 1996. White had worked previously to create organizations in Manila, Mumbai and Texas before arriving in Hawaii and was known for her focus on building faith based organizations at the grass roots. “This process is the foundation of FACE’s success over the years,” according to FACE Policy Director Kim Harman.“What country you or your parents are from, what language you speak, there are lots of things that divide us every day. But the listening process breaks down those barriers and allows local, Hawaiian and immigrant families to share their values and worries about their future and identify those problems that are affecting all of us. When we find those issues, the whole organization can work together across all denominations to fix state and even federal policy.” The listening process happens in each church or
temple appoints a set of listeners who are trained and commissioned by the pastor. Each listener is assigned a set of people in the church to talk to, and they hold 30-45 minute meetings with up to 20 of their fellow parishioners. The conversations are aimed at surfacing the problems that church members see in the neighborhood or even on the island. One on one meetings are followed up with house meetings, or coffee hours where the common problems are shared. Ultimately one or two common problems are selected to focus on. Former Kalihi State Representative Ted Mina used to describe this as “the sensible approach to social action.” Mina was a FACE organizer in its early years, and helped train FACE staff in the ins and outs of local politics. Mina’s practical nature and sophistication with Hawaii politics made him a real asset to the group, and he helped bridge the important relationship with Local 5. I certainly learned a lot about being practical from Mr. Mina!
Joyce Afalla last year’s Gintong Pamana Leadership award winner from the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce for her work on the driver’s test translation, talked about her work with FACE in these terms, “Charity and justice are linked – charity moves us to help others and justice to stand up for our families and friends as well as ourselves. FACE is a good way to do justice that matters in public.” “And we have done a lot of justice,” Dr. Clementina CeriaUlep, the founding president of FACE and current chair of the Caring Across Generations committee added, “Over the years we’ve worked to raise the minimum wage, get the green roofed bus shelters built, give families a fighting chance to save their homes by passing the country’s strongest anti-foreclosure law, and saved a lot of affordable housing on the way. Currently we are really focused on aging with dignity and the need for long term care, as well as making things better for new immigrants.” “We also balance things out a little bit,” adds Melba Amaral, who led the statewide fight to change the foreclosure laws.“Our listening process only matters because it becomes action. Look, we all know that there are powerful interests with money that dominate a lot of public life in Hawaii, I mean, we live here so we see it for goodness sake. But those guys don’t get everything their way, not with us around.” FACE’s new Director is Army Reserve Captain Leotele Togafau, a recent law school graduate, and Leotele is joined by her law school classmate Khara Jabola-Carolus and Rev. Tasha Kama, while Rev. Stan Bain and Alan Mark continue in their current role at the organization. Drew Astolfi will be moving to the Mainland this month.
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
By brandon elefante Council Member City and County of Honolulu
Honolulu has a new sister city--Candon City, Philippines! On May 7th, 2015, Candon City Mayor E r i c s o n S i n g s o n , M . D., Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell, and the council chairs from Candon City and Honolulu all signed a sister city agreement to strengthen our relationships as cities by promoting economic development, cultural exchanges and fostering growth. The significance of this sister city relationship is that the first 15 sakadas immigrated to Hawaii from Candon City in 1906, starting the wave of Filipino immigration and helping to shape our island community into what it is today. It was an honor to participate in this very joyful occasion! Leading up to the event, I was moved and inspired by the words of Congressman Eric Singson,
Representatives of Hawai’i’s Congressional Delegation, the Hawai’i State Legislature, and the Honolulu City Council honoring the Candon City representatives.
CANDON CITY IS OFFICIALLY A SISTER CITY TO HONOLULU the father of Mayor Ericson Singson, M.D. Congressman Singson shared his love and gratitude to the people of Honolulu and took the time to travel to Honolulu multiple times to personally thank the community for this partnership. Here are some photos from the event. Enjoy!
Brandon Elefante represents Honolulu City Council District VIII which covers Aiea, Pearl City, Waipahu. He is an active member of several organizations including the Filipino Junior Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii. He can be reached at (808) 7685008 and his email is belefante@ honolulu.gov. Honolulu City Council Chair Ernest Martin, Mayor Kirk Caldwell, Candon City Mayor Ericson Singson, M.D., Candon City Council Chair Rhodana Abrero
Councilmember Brandon Elefante, Mayor Ericson Singson, M.D., Councilmember Joey Manahan
Honolulu City Councilmembers with Candon City Mayor, Ericson Singson, M.D.
Mr. Donnie Juan, Mr. Ignacio Abaya, Mrs. Grace Singson, Councilmember Brandon Elefante, Mrs. Bernadette Fajardo, and Mr. Emmanuel Abaya
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 15
By Jane Clement
The Filipino community, along with members of the St. Michael’s parish in Kona, gathered together on April 24 to commemorate and celebrate the 25th year anniversary of ordination of Reverend Father Emerson B. Delos Reyes. The celebration began with a special mass service in his honor at the newly built St. Michael the Archangel church in Kailua Kona. In his homily, Father Emerson or “Father Boyet” as he is fondly called, reflected on his 25 year journey into the priesthood. He considers it an incredible gift to be called to this vocation to do God’s work. He praised his colleagues and thanked the Kona community for welcoming him with so much aloha. Over 200 guests were in attendance at the dinner reception following the service. A wide array of traditional Filipino dishes and desserts were served, all of which were donated by the various Filipino organizations, individuals and church groups. The Filipino community put together a special program of musical and dance presentations in appreciation of Father Boyet’s 25 years of service to God and to celebrate this important milestone in his priestly life. The best part of the event came when a surprise video greeting was shown featuring the people who have been an important part of his life and ministry - the Bishop of Tagum, his fellow priests, seminarians at the Rector where he served for 18 years, and his close friends and family. Father Boyet was born on January 27, 1965 in Davao City, Philippines. He is the youngest among four children of Jesus, Sr., a Bicolano, and Mercedes, an Ilocana. He was ordained to the Priesthood on April 24, 1990 at Christ the King Cathedral in Tagum City, Davao, Philippines. This is where he devoted his ministries serving as the Diocesan Priest of the Diocese of Tagum. His vocation story started just when he was about to finish high school. Father Boyet attended private catholic schools in elementary and all through high school.
Filipino youth group performing a doxology
Father Boyet Delos Reyes with Bishop Larry Silva
He said this was a big factor in his decision to consider the priesthood. He went to college for a year before deciding to enter the Pontifical Central Seminary at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila where he completed his priestly training. He earned both his degrees in Philosophy and Theology at the Ecclesiastical Faculties at the same university. He also holds a Doctorate Degree in Education. His training combined with his extensive educational background served him well in his ministry of shaping candidates to the priesthood. Father Boyet started as a seminary professor in 1989. A year later, he was promoted to become the Chancellor of the Diocese of Tagum. He quickly rose to the academic ranks and was named Dean of Academics of the Queen of Apostles College Seminary in 1996. His continued commitment to his profession and vocation coupled with his skills in management and deep understanding of the Catholic p h i l osop hy of e ducati on gained him the trust of his peers and was appointed Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Tagum. Twenty-five years have gone by very quickly for Father Boyet who spent most of it serving the Diocese of Tagum helping the seminarians work out their formation to Christian maturity and to priesthood. He said that the highlight of his ministry has been
Father Emerson “Boyet” Delos Reyes
that 65% of the priests in Tagum today were all once his students in the seminary. Father Boyet came to Hawaii in September 2014. He was assigned to the St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Kona serving as its Associate Pastor. It turns out that this assignment was only temporary. Shortly after his 25th year celebration, Bishop Larry Silva asked him to continue his ministry at St. Theresa Parish in Kekaha, Kauai starting in June as its new pastor. However, as everyone will agree, Father Boyethas endeared himself to the Filipino community during his short stay in Kona. He will be missed but we wish him all the best as he continues in the faith to serve all of God’s people.
Fr. Emerson “Boyet” Delos Reyes Ordination to the Priesthood, April 28, 1990
Members of the Filipino-American community of West Hawaii
Father Boyet with members of the Filipino Organizations of Kona
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
By RADIANT CORDERO
Nicole (far right) with Romeo Garcia of the Neighborhood Commission Office, Mrs. Singson, Grace Villanueva Go, and Candon City Mayor Ericson Gacula Singson after a successful Sister-City relation between Honolulu and Candon City event on May 7, 2015. (Photo Credit to Angie Santiago)
Velasco to Serve As Executive Director of Office of Economic Development By Radiant Cordero
Strong-willed, passionate, humble, dedicated, and bright, Nicole Velasco has been an effective and invaluable member of Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s Administration for the past two years. Velasco reigns proudly from Kalihi, where she still constantly gives back to her community as a board member of the Kalihi YMCA, a coach for Farrington High School’s Lady Gov’s water polo team, a former member of the KalihiPalama Neighborhood Board #15, and more. A Punahou School and Princeton University graduate, Nicole came back to Honolulu and has been making impressive waves of change for Hawaii. Mayor Caldwell appointed N i c o l e a s t h e E xe c u t i ve Secretary of the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) in May 2013. At NCO, she enabled both the Commission and the Commission Office to reenergize the importance of what Mayor Frank Fasi’s Neighborhood Commission Office was to truly focus on – The Neighborhood Boards and its members. Velasco and her team reinvigorated the members, brought the boards to the community, and the
community to the boards with such projects as “Community for Kei ki Mo nth,” w here children are incorporated to the Neighborhood Boards’ agendas to highlight, present, and share their ideas, concerns, and issues that affect our keiki. At the beginning of this month of May 2015, after two years of influencing impactful changes to the Neighborhood Commission Office, Mayor Caldwell has appointed Velasco as the Executive Director of the Office of Economic Development where she will continue to reach out to the community. The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development’s focus for the community is to build the economy of our businesses in Honolulu by working together to increase economic opportunities. It also aims to support agricultural sustainability and is also manages the City’s management of the Honolulu Film Office. Another important component for the Office of Economic Development is that it establishes and maintains international relationships with Honolulu and foreign cities. Less than a week into
her new position, Nicole has al read y d el ved i nto the international relations component of her job by spearheading the event where Candon City, Philippines became official Sister City to Honolulu. Velasco has the drive to refocus and bring a fresh perspective to the Office of Economic Development. She is gearring to really understand the agency so she can prioritize the needs. We are certain that the future looks brighter with Nicole Velasco as one of the beacon of lights that will move Honolulu forward to a better future.
Radiant Cordero is an Assistant Editor at the Fil-Am Courier. She was awarded by the United Filipino Council of Hawaii as an “Outstanding Youth” and by the JCI Filipino Junior Chamber as a “Top Outstanding Young Filipino.” She graduated with honors from the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa with a B.A. in Political Science and B.A. in American Studies in May 2012 and is now a Master’s candidate in the Public Administration Program at UH Manoa. Cordero serves as the Volunteers’ Coordinator for the KaBATAan: Filipino for Kids Hawaii program and works as an External Government Relations and Legislative Aide at the Honolulu City Council.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 17
SAKADA BILL TO BE SIGNED BY GOVERNOR It’s official: December 20 has been designated as “Sakada Day” beginning this year. Governor David Ige is slated to participate in the official signing ceremony for Act 007 which is scheduled for Friday, May 22, 2015 at the Governor’s office. Also expected to be in attendance will be state legislators from the Filipino community, leaders of various organizations and representatives from the Philippine consulate in Honolulu. Act 007 was originally HB 604 which was introduced by the following legislators during this legislative year: John Mizuno, Henry Aquino, Della Au Belatti, Tom Brower, Romy Cachola, Richard Creagan, Ty Cullen, Mark Hashem, Kaneala Ing, Bert Kobayashi, Matt Lopresti, Dee Morikawa, Scott Nishimoto, Richard Onishi, Joy San Buenaventura, Clifton Tsuji, Justin Woodson, Kyle Yamashita and Sam Kong. The bill is recognition of the Filipino’s growing impact on the community. It states that: “approximately one hundred twenty thousand contract laborers from the Philippines, or “Sakadas”, arrived in Honolulu to work in the plantation industry between 1906 and 1934. This measure is a fitting recognition of the role of the Sakadas in Hawaii’s history
and the legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for the land that they gave to generations of Filipinos that followed.” Vice Speaker John Mizuno, one of the introducers of the measure, said it was a long time in coming. “No one can deny the deep roots Hawaii has with the Philippines. When we look at the genesis or start of the great -+1 immigration of our people from the Philippines to not only the United States, but globally, we can be honored to say it started with the first 15 Sakadas that arrived in Hawaii.” “I have heard from the sakadas of their sacrifices and their incredible persistence against all odds in order to pave the way for a better life for their families. This yearly remembrance will bring into focus those sacrifices, so the future generation will appreciate history’s valuable lessons.” Mizuno also gave credit to Philippine Consul General Gina Jamoralin who requested for the introduction of the bill. The signing ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. with a reception planned afterwards. For more information, please contact Congress of Visayan Organizations (COVO) President May Mizuno at (808)741-4503.
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015
HEALTH CARE FACILITY OPENS IN WAIPAHU
‘Ekahi Urgent Care is hosting a free, familyfriendly health fair onm Sunday, May 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the parking lot next to the clinic. There will be food booths, games, health and wellness information and demonstrations, including hot hula and CrossFit. Everyone will receive a souvenir from the clinic. A portion of the sales will benefit the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu. A new health care facility, ‘Ekahi Urgent Care recently opened in Waipahu next to Tzimes Supermarket. The clinic is ready for the summer season when the longer days and outdoor activities bring in more patients.
D r. Ke v i n L u m , t h e Medical Director of the urgent care facility, is a local boy who grew up in the area. Serving as the clinic’s medical director fulfills his hope to serve his community by providing an alternative to the emergency room and helping to support the other busy physicians in the area. According to Dr. Lum, “When school is out and the days are longer, we see a jump in bumps, bruises, cuts, sprains and other injuries that outdoor activities during the summer season typically brings.” “This is a terrific new option for residents of West Oahu. There is almost no wait time and we pride ourselves on the quality of our care. We have on-site lab testing, X-ray services and IV hydration services. We welcome all patients, not just children”. He added, “We can help patients when they can’t be seen by their primary care physician or if they need to be seen after their primary care doctor’s office is closed. Our staff ensures that all results and records that are part of the visit are sent to the patient’s primary care doctor.” Three of the doctors are emergency medicine board-certified physicians. Another is board-certified in family practice with a sports medicine speciality. With the addition of the rail project to Waipahu, this clinic represents the positive new growth in business and services that will be needed as Waipahu moves toward the future.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • MAY 16-31, 2015 • PAGE 19
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JANITOR: Pay $7.75$ 9 . 0 0 / h r Looking for candidates with 1 year commercial experience. Buffing, waxing & cleaning floors. Shampooing & vacuuming carpets. Cleaning common areas. Must be able to lift 50-70 lbs. Call Staffing Partners at 945-9300.
LABOR:
LITE INDUSTRIAL/ LABORERS - Warehouse - Driver Helper - Production Line - Food Prep/Dishwashers Pay $7.75 - $8.50/hr 6 mos of recent work experience needed. For interviews call our Ala Moana office 945-9300, Staffing Partners.
Part-time help
wanted to package candies and snacks. PH 833-5135
Live-In Caregiver (CAN/NA)
Hawaii kai is looking for a caregiver for a 5 beds residential care home, must have experience in a nursing home or a care home. Live in or live out. If interested
please call Berly or George 396-4195.
HIRING PT-TIME
GIFT SHOP SALES ASSOC.
IN WAIKIKI, MOTIVATED, ENERGETIC & CUST SERVICE SKILLS,
CALL
383-8282
Clean abstract required, Competitive pay, medical, dental, vision, & 401k, profit sharing benefits. Applications hours: 10 am-3 pm, Mon-Fri Apply In person at: KOHA FOODS 500 Alakawa St. #104 Honolulu, HI 96817
Receive a $300 hiring bonus
No nights. No weekends. No experience necessary. Our wonderful atmosphere will make you feel right at home. Weekly pay check, paid mileage, part time and full time, paid holidays off, $11 per hour guaranteed, and family atmosphere. Call Bonnie Williams at 955-6243. Call or come by our office today. The Merry Maids.
SHORT ON CASH?
Business Oportunity.
$400+
per transaction. Call 295-0577
services INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?
Pedestrian/Bicycle Truck/Auto/Slip & Fall; Medical MASSAGE Reduce: Headaches Neck/Back Shoulder/Leg/Hand PAIN 808-223-8243 Robert R. Holland Licensed MT
ADOPTIONS
Former Family Court & Circuit Court Judge Rey Graulty. Call 674-2637 for information.
WEDDINGS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Judge Graulty (retired)
call 778-8510 to schedule.
for sale
for rent
for rent
Eternal Garden
For Rent 1 bdrm
FOR RENT One Bed Room: $700 including utilities. Close to town.
Memorial Park 4 Lots Available Caloocan City, Metro Manila, Philippines Call Ed (808) 381-8897
VALLEY of the Temples Lot
with marker, interment vault, and ground opening /closing with Saturday charge. Below market price.
Call 232-7262
Condo For Sale
Newport City Resort World Pasay City, 1Brm. Partly Furnished 36 sqm. Ground Floor Call Jimmy
258-4131
w/parking, busline accross Target, Navy Exchange/ Commissary Radford HS. Occupancy for 1 or 2 only,
call 391-5669
FOR RENT AIEA Spacious 2 bedrooms downstairs.
Call 398-8961 Waipahu 2 bedrooms for rent,
has own private entry, kitchen & bathroom, call
678-
9003 or 227-9002
2 rooms FOR RENT:
Available! Call 678-8124
Call 384-0117
room for rent
waipahu 1 person working, including utilities, street
call 6760759
parking,
available!
EWA BEACH FOR RENT
1 BEDROOM WITH A/C, 1 PARKING, BUS LINE, CALL 689-7480.
FOR SALE HOUSE & LOT IN BULACAN NEAR MANILA
1.6M
IN PESO PLS.CALL (917) 312-5081