Issue 83, January 2025
Letter from the Editor
A lot of tiptoeing going on
There’s something bizarre happening as the nation awaits the ascension of Donald Trump to the White House.
The tech billionaires have offered to bankroll his inauguration party -- Bezos through Amazon and Zuckerberg through Meta. It’s like they are trying to get on his good side seeing how Elon Musk is now well ensconced in the MAGA circuit testing his political power by critiquing legislation and reviewing bureaucratic structures. Musk was one of the Trump’s top-heavy financiers. The prosecutors, who were bringing a host of civil and criminal cases against him, have been slow-walking his cases through the courts. Special counsel Jack Smith, who is investigating the ‘classified documents’ and ‘overturning of the 2020 elections’ cases is reported to be planning to step down before Trump takes over. His hands are tied as he cannot prosecute a sitting president, according to a Department of Justice guideline. Strange as it may seem, but he is now under investigation by the DOJ for possible “misconduct” in the ‘classified documents.’
It is worth noting what Jessica Roth of the Cardozo School of Law had written in a newspaper commentary: “When prosecutors started their investigations, Trump hadn’t yet declared he would run
Founding Editor
Cristina DC Pastor
Managing Editor Rene Pastor
NY 10116
again for president. And when prosecutors filed the charges against Trump in 2023, he hadn’t yet won the Republican nomination or been re-elected president… From the perspective of the prosecutors then, Trump was a former president and private citizen, and it wasn’t necessarily foreseeable that political events would unfold as they did.”
She continued, “Many observers are understandably disappointed by the seeming end point of Trump’s criminal
prosecutions, but that end point wasn’t knowable to prosecutors at the outset, and it shouldn’t have influenced their decisions. Political considerations are for other actors in our democracy, not prosecutors.”
The most egregious exhibit of obsequious behavior was by Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski. It came as a shock to many when the MSNBC power couple met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago shortly after he won re-election. The pair justified their private meeting as a case of journalists reaching out to all kinds of political leaders. The only difference with what they did is they had called him all sorts of derogatory labels before, and are now saying, “We’re all working towards a better America.” Fear of retribution, some believe, is the couple’s biggest motivation.
It's a troubling thought that people are afraid of incurring the ire of the incoming president and what he may be planning to do in the four years he is in power. He has made no secret of his plans to go after his political enemies, among them Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, Jack Smith, and the so-called “fake news.” We sense no good-heartedness or grace in his attitudes despite his decisive, unquestionable win over Vice President Kamala Harris.
A real leader rules by respect not intimidation.
Contributing Writers
Marissa Bañez
Tricia J. Capistrano
Joel David
Wendell Gaa
Allen Gaborro
Maricar C. Padilla
Angelito Cabigao
Ludy AstraquilloOngkeko
Lindy Rosales
GOP Representative Liz Cheney. Facebook photo
Immigration Atty. Arvin Amatorio: ‘Self-deportation is complex, has significant consequences’
By Cristina DC Pastor
Bergenfield, N.J. Mayor Arvin Amatorio, also an immigration lawyer, spoke to The FilAm about the road ahead for immigration reform. He warned against “immediate self-deportation” as he urged undocumented immigrants to explore all options. The interview below:
The FilAm (TF): Did you get a spike in immigration inquiries after Trump won the presidency?
Arvin Amatorio (AA): Yes, there was a spike in immigration inquiries following Trump's election. Many immigrants, including Filipinos, were concerned about the administration's direction on immigration enforcement and potential policy changes. This created uncertainty and a sense of urgency among individuals wanting to secure their status or explore options for themselves and their families. I've had inquiries that were coming from other countries, and they fear for their loved ones who are in the U.S.
TF: What does the Trump presidency mean for immigrants, Filipinos included?
AA: The Trump presidency brought significant uncertainty for immigrants, especially those lacking proper immigration documentation. For those who already have their green cards, as they are already naturalized, I found out the reaction is diverse, and many supported his threat to enforce the immigration law by deporting them.
For Filipinos, it emphasized the importance of addressing legal status and preparing for potential changes in immigration policy. Legal immigrants might encounter more rigorous vetting processes, while undocumented immigrants could face heightened enforcement measures. It also highlighted the adaptability and resourcefulness of immigrant communities. (Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez told the Philippine Star there could be anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 undocumented Filipinos currently in the U.S.)
TF: What should undocumented Filipinos do at this point? Should they heed the Ambassador's advice to self-deport?
AA: While the Ambassador may have good intentions, I disagree with immediate self-deportation. Undocumented Filipinos should seek proper legal advice first. Self-deportation is complex and has significant consequences, and each case is unique. In some situations, deportation proceedings might actually lead to a green card, as respondents can seek relief not available in USCIS proceedings. They should explore all options before deciding. (Romualdez told the Inquirer, “If they [Filipinos] have no path to staying [in the U.S.] legally, it’s better to leave instead of being deported; otherwise the chances of being able to come back is almost zero.”)
TF: 11 million undocumented immigrants is a big number. Is mass deportation the solution?
AA: Mass deportation would require immense resources, disrupt millions of lives, and strain relationships with immigrant communities. According to a report from American Immigration Council, it would take about $88 billion to remove just 1 Million. I'm unsure if Congress could quickly allocate this money to deport all the 11 Million, considering the cost and the potential impact it would create in many communities.
As a Mayor of a town and an immigration attorney, I talked to small business owners such as restaurants, stores, and construction companies, and these busi-
nesses rely on immigrants to perform the work that nobody wants to do. In one incident, upon discussing this issue, one joked that even the children of illegal immigrants who grew up in this country are reluctant to do these menial yet vital jobs to make our community run and to grow our economy.
Therefore, I suggest a bipartisan, constructive approach is needed involving comprehensive immigration reform, addressing border security, and a meaningful partnership amongst the neighboring countries to improve our economies and a reasonable pathway to legal status.
TF: How about deporting immigrants with criminal records? Do you think this will happen?
AA: The Trump administration did prioritize deporting immigrants with criminal records, and we saw an increase in enforcement targeting this group. During the first Trump administration, we experienced a different enforcement policy, and the government prosecuting cases in removal proceedings was less likely to exercise prosecutorial discretion. However, "criminal records" can vary widely; in some cases, individuals with minor offenses were also deported. This policy underscores the need for fair and transparent criteria in enforcement actions.
TF: Do you believe mass deportation will hurt the economy, as studies have shown that immigrants contribute to economic growth and taxes?
AA: Yes, mass deportation would likely harm the economy. Immigrants play a critical role in agriculture, healthcare, and technology industries. Removing millions of workers would disrupt businesses, reduce tax revenue, and slow economic growth. As mentioned earlier, our local restaurants and hospitality industry would like to be affected. Immigrants also contribute as consumers and entrepreneurs, driving local and national economies.
TF: What is the road ahead for immigration in the next four years?
AA: The road ahead depends on the administration and its willingness to prioritize reform. A balanced approach addressing enforcement, pathways to legal status, and humanitarian considerations is critical. Advocates and immigrant communities must continue to push for policies that reflect America's values as a nation of immigrants. I believe Republicans and Democrats can find common ground. Both parties could agree on issues like national security, technological advancement, and economic impact. Humanitarian considerations and family unification are integral to legal immigration.
The twice-elected mayor of Bergenfield is the founding attorney of Amatorio Law Firm. He is admitted to practice law in New York State as well as the Southern and Eastern districts of New York.
Mayor Amatorio with wife Ilya and their two sons. Facebook photos
‘Wicked:’ A story about bullying and the color of one’s skin
By Wendell Gaa
The year 2024 will surely go down as yet another banner year for cinema, and one of the best films to come out is undoubtedly “Wicked.”
Even before its very release, it was surrounded by much hype and talk around how it is one of the best movies in the musical genre in recent memory. After watching it for myself, I’m very happy to say that all the hoopla is certifiably true!
One of my biggest regrets during my time living and working in New York City was never having taken the opportunity to watch “Wicked” on Broadway. Now that I’ve gotten to see the film version, my eyes have finally opened to what it is all about.
“Wicked” is a prequel story to the classic 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz” from Hollywood’s Golden Age, focusing on the young future Wicked Witch of the West named Elphaba. She is played by multi-awarded British actress Cynthia Erivo, who will eventually grow up to be the main villain in “The Wizard of Oz.” Glinda, the future Good Witch of the North is played by pop superstar Ariana Grande.
The film chronicles the youth years of both Elphaba and Glinda as they are students at the Shiz University in the fantasy world of Oz. It is here where the university’s Dean Madame Morrible (played by Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh) takes a huge liking to Elphaba due to her innate magical abilities, despite Elphaba’s difference in looks and “attractiveness,” especially compared to Glinda, who fits the bill perfectly as the school’s all-around pretty popular girl.
This film adds so much more depth and layer to the two lead characters of Elphaba and Glinda which will make you think twice of viewing the morals and values of people living in the land of Oz in purely black and white lens, hence this is no mere musical fantasy
where everything is as it appears to be on the surface.
It is particularly with Elphaba whom we come to learn more about how she is born with a color deformity which is the cause of her green skin, and she does not grow up a necessarily normal and happy life compared to how Glinda is raised. We come to see how as a child she is misunderstood and emotionally bullied with many of her own peers casting judgement upon her as an outsider. Seeing what she goes through in an attempt to merely live out the same way as everyone else will make you empathize more with the reasons why Elphaba thinks and acts the way she does.
In an interesting twist, despite the fact that they are from two polar opposites of social cliques, Elphaba and Glinda soon form a close friendship to such a degree that one would be hardpressed to imagine how the two would later become rivals in the classic “The Wizard of Oz.” And their ensuing bond comes at a moment when we already see how so different the two are in terms of their looks and personalities, Elphaba being the often shunned and unappreciated while Glinda is the more easily socially acceptable one with her good looks and charm.
The friendship and bond between the two forms the central crux of “Wicked,” and the relationships which they form with their peers and mentors is a poignant allegory of how many societies around the world still behave towards people who are different. The music soundtrack and songs so excellently complement the film’s plot moving forward, and Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are, simply put, the only two actress-singers who could have made such onscreen chemistry work so perfectly.
Hence this is the ideal holiday movie for the whole family to watch, and I’d rank this right up alongside the greatest musicals in cinematic history. As this film only constitutes the first Act of the Broadway musical, I eagerly anticipate “Wicked Pt. II” should be out next year.
Head sorceress Madame Morrible played by Michelle Yeoh
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as young witches Elphaba and Glinda, respectively.
Women. Immigration. Media.
These are the core components that comprise the not-for-profit organization WICCAFE or the Women’s Immigration and Communications Café, a conversation and media platform for women immigrants founded by journalist Marivir Montebon.
“There are cookies to bake and stories to tell by immigrant women on a media platform, not just in kitchens or dining rooms,” was Montebon’s guiding light in creating her school project needed to complete her master’s degree at the HJ International Graduate Studies for Peace and Public Leadership in 2020.
WICCAFE was formally launched on September 6, 2019, but diligently conceptualized years earlier by New York journalist Montebon who was then studying for her master’s degree in religious studies with a focus on nonprofit leadership.
She was the chief idea generator of WICCAFE with the guidance of Dr. Andrew Wilson as her advisor. The gestation period was two years, she recalled, at the time when immigration education was sought by many.
“This was in 2017 when Trump was still in office and demand for immigration info was really high,” she said. “We were responding through all these forums and educating people on their rights.”
She would be joined later by graduate school classmates Vanette Colmenares, who is the vice president, and Methodist pastor Roeline Ramirez is the secretary-treasurer. Because all three women are immigrants from the Philippines and have connections either professionally or academically with writing and media, WICCAFE came to life.
A pre-launch forum was held in Elizabeth, N.J. on Know Your Immigration Rights with immigration lawyer Lara Gregory in partnership with the Filipino International Community in America.
The launch event in September 2019 at HJI in mid-Manhattan was an immigration rights forum with immigration consultant from Washington D.C. Susan Pineda speaking on human trafficking.
It did not take long for WICCAFE to take root and grow despite its unusual birthing during the time of the pandemic when people were mostly hunkered down in their homes waiting to see where the
‘There are cookies to bake and stories to tell by immigrant women on a media platform:’ journalist Montebon
COVID-19 coronavirus would take the country.
Montebon finished her master’s degree during lockdown and graduated with honors. She was conferred a distinguished award of “Public Leadership in the Community” by HJI. In 2024, she finished her doctoral degree on Peace and Public Leadership with a dissertation on "Bridging the Political Divide of U.S. Immigration Reporting through Transformative
Journalism." Throughout the pandemic, conversations on immigration rights and issues have taken front and center in Montebon's podcasts.
For a young non-profit of five years, WICCAFE continues to evolve. In June 2024, it launched the Women & Media (WAM) podcast, a platform for dialogue and action.
In this project, Montebon is joined by Cristina DC Pastor, founding editor of
The FilAm newspaper and co-founder of Makilala TV, the longest running television talk show for Filipino Americans in the New York metro area. The two journalists engage in cozy and chummy conversations with women in the community about issues in politics as well as their private lives. The topics are varied (beauty contests, the outcome of the 2024 elections, family vs career, etc.).
WAM made its debut at the Philippine Center on June 21 attended by nearly a hundred members of the community. It introduced a unique format where singer Carla Mongado provided a musical interlude in between speeches. The speakers are notable women in city affairs and media: New York arts editor Cielo Buenaventura, environmental journalist Justine Calma of Vox Media, and lawyer Anne del Castillo of the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs.
“WAM is not a reinvention, but a continuity of the program envisioned by WICCAFE,” said Montebon.
In the latter part of 2024, WICCAFE partnered with nonprofit organizations for a series of Know Your Rights forums led by the Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund (FALDEF). The debut forum was held in Woodside and another in Levittown in Hicksville together with the Nepalese Society of New York.
Another forum about employment-based immigration is currently being organized also with FALDEF and other lawyers’ groups. WICCAFE is one of the implementation partners.
WICCAFE looks toward the coming years as potentially a busy period, especially since immigration has been touted as a priority concern of the new administration. Threats of mass deportation have caused anxiety within the immigrant community. WICCAFE will be sure to continue to advocate for more dialogue and education on immigrant rights so that facts, not fear, will prevail over the rhetoric of threats and intimidation.
Montebon continues to inspire conversations and action. She said, “With our baby steps right now, the cookies to bake and stories to tell are beginning to unfold, not just in the kitchens of anxious immigrant women, but out in the open through our media platform.” -- Cristina DC Pastor
Women & Media poster
he said, “They don’t complain for fear of reprisal or
At Christmastime, ‘tahanan’ is the warmth that fuels the spirit
By Mary Lou Cunanan
In Tagalog, tahanan means home, but it carries a depth that no English word quite captures. It comes from tahan na—a phrase every Filipino has heard, probably while sobbing as a child. It means stop crying, but really, it means so much more: You’re safe now. Everything will be okay. You are loved.
This is what tahanan truly is. It’s not just a house where you sleep. It’s the backbone of our society, the sanctuary where you can ugly-cry without judgment, eat with your hands without shame, and let your guard down because your family’s got your back. It’s the place where your head rests for the night, worry-free, so you can recharge to fight life’s battles tomorrow.
We Filipinos protect tahanan at all costs. Because once a person loses it, they start looking for it in all the wrong places—an overpriced cup of coffee, a dubious online relationship, or some self-help guru convincing you to meditate your way to inner peace. But no overpriced latte or viral TED Talk will ever fill that void. Instead of peace, you end up emptier than when you first started.
Family is everything—this is not just a cliché for us; it’s a way of life. Is there anything more important to a Filipino? None. We would move mountains for the people we love, and when it comes to affection, nothing compares to the way we show lambing. Our soft, playful, and heartfelt way of loving is as nourishing as a hot bowl of Sinigang on a rainy day.
For me, tahanan is where I run to when life feels like a never-ending teleserye with no commercial breaks. It’s where I can cry, vent, laugh, and just be. When life feels impossible, my family is always there, ready to listen. They’re not just my sounding board; they’re my anchor, my cheer squad, and my co-conspirators in late-night kwentuhan.
As a child, tahanan was where my mom would wipe my tears after I fell and scraped my knee. Her voice was soft, “Tahan na. Wag ka na umiyak,” which translates roughly to, “Stop crying. I’m here for you.” It was as though her words came with magical powers, and in that moment, the world felt safe again.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve realized how much I depend on tahanan. When the weight of life gets heavy, it’s not trophies or titles that bring me peace—it’s coming home. It’s where everything feels right.
In countries like the U.S., where independence is the ultimate goal, tahanan might be a hard concept to explain. It’s not something you can grasp intellectually—it’s something you feel in your bones. It’s the unspoken connection when you sit with
family, even after years apart, and realize that this is where you belong. As the holidays draw near, we’re reminded that going home isn’t just about the delicious food, the fancy
‘Tahanan’
gifts, or the festive parties. It’s about finding what’s truly meaningful— being surrounded by people who allow you to be your truest self, in both your darkest moments and your brightest joys. It’s about the quiet comfort of knowing you are seen, heard, and loved for exactly who you are.
And perhaps, this season, we can take it a step further—extending that sense of home to others. Whether through a kind word, an open door, or a simple gesture of care, we can remind someone else that they too belong.
Merry Christmas, everyone. So tonight, as your head touches the pillow, take a moment to cherish your tahanan. It might not be perfect—maybe it’s noisy, messy, or full of unwashed dishes—but it’s yours. It’s your anchor, your reason to keep going, and the warmth that fuels your spirit. Tonight, you are home.
is where everything feels right.
Home is a warm, cozy bed. Photos: Unsplash
Wells Fargo’s Jerome Flores: Embracing diversity at work and at home
By Cristina DC Pastor
Jerome Flores started working at Wells Fargo Bank as a young teller. That was 18 years ago or shortly after the merger with Wachovia. It’s his “first real job.”
Today, he is one of the Filipino Americans holding top positions in the country’s fourth largest bank. He is the Senior Diversity & Inclusion Consultant, a title that demonstrates the bank’s commitment to non-discrimination and fair treatment in the workplace.
He explained to The FilAm what his title means and what his responsibilities are.
“We always try to focus on driving measurable results” through employee engagement.
He said, “My (job) is really engagement for all employees not just diverse employees, supporting their needs and creating programming that creates a sense of belonging. When we feel like we belong at a company we’re nine times more likely to stay with the company.”
His position was fairly new, created three years ago when the concept of DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) came to clearly define corporate practice that does not exclude individuals on the basis of gender, race, religion, or disability.
“Think of it like a portfolio manager,” he said. “I’m the voice for diverse employees when they need something. What are their concerns? I can be the sounding board. I listen to them. I’m accountable to senior leaders who care about how we are creating inclusion at work... Employees come to me and I ensure they are being heard.”
Engagement also applies to the communities the bank serves, such as the AAPI, Pride and Hispanic Latino sectors, including driving business outcomes.
He cited an example: The bank’s home lending area has products around Hispanics creating wealth through home buying. It’s important for the bank
to make the connection on the ground and gain the trust of the community.
“I do this for all three of my diverse employee resource groups, reporting and uplifting their heritage months. I lead many of these initiatives around what type of programming should look like, what the communication are we going plan during this particular heritage month. The one I’m really proud of was Asian American Pacific Islander month.”
| Gay Asian man
Jerome, 55, was born in San Francisco to parents whose marriage ended when
he was a young boy. Although his father was in the U.S. Navy, the family did not move around the country with him so the family was able to set roots in California. He, the eldest child, and his three siblings grew up with their mother, who worked as an accountant at General Electric. He remembers his mother to be warm, sweet, and loving; his father, on the other hand, was reserved and stoic. On retirement, his entrepreneurial mother opened a doughnut franchise. To keep busy, Jerome would proudly tell friends, “I made doughnuts.” When he came out as gay after his parents had separated, his mom was supportive.
“She did not get angry, but she broke down and cried,” was his recollection. “Mother felt guilty. She thought it was her fault because being the eldest I was in charge of my two brothers and one sister.” It was a funny thought that made him laugh during the interview because they both understood that it had absolutely nothing to do with how he identifies.
Jerome founded a community of LGBT employees within the bank called Pride Connection.
The Flores family with Jerome at far right.
| Rise to the top
He remembers being a shy person when he was new to the bank. As he matured through the ranks and assumed more responsibilities and gained skills, he became more confident and learned to “create visibility” for the important work around diversity. He organized a program with the theme “Uplifting Asian voices” where Asian executives talked about what it took to climb the career ladder or to move through a large company’s other departments and levels.
“Culturally we tend to be very humble. We work and we hope to get noticed,” said Jerome. “I had to learn. I need to be more vocal especially in a corporation of 200,000 people. If I’m going to create career mobility for myself, I need to brag about myself and to be heard, not to be shy.
“We had a lot of programming for Asian American employees with speakers talking about the importance of being visible, making your voices heard. It was great storytelling.”
| Loyalty is important
“I’m of the generation where loyalty meant a lot to me,” he said. “I’ve heard some say you need to go from job to job every two years. I don’t like to do that.
I’m loyal to the company. Through it all I’ve always been who I am: a gay Asian man. I never felt I can never be who I am here.”
Jerome founded a community of LGBT employees in Washington D.C. within the bank called Pride Connection (PC). He was, at the time, a branch manager supervising a team of 10 to 15 people.
“I was out, and they wanted to establish a group of people who will tell the story of being gay,” he said.
There are now PC chapters in Wells Fargo offices across the country not just in urban areas like New York and San Francisco. The company also supports LGBTQ community organizations.
He felt good about how PC has expanded as well as the bank’s support for gender identity and expression which he helped frame.
“It’s important for me to also be myself,” he said.
Photographed with mom Milagros Flores on a Hawaiian cruise. She passed on December 12, 2024 at age 80.
Jerome (center) is a panelist at the Wells Fargo Bystander Intervention Training in San Francisco in 2023.
Photo by Justin Chu
With younger brother Joseph in San Francisco.
Calendar of Events
| January 5
Sinulog sa Jubileo 2025 by the Archdiocese of Newark Immaculate Heart of Mary & St. Patrick Church 215 Court Street Elizabeth, N.J.
| January 18
PAAC 60 Dinner Dance by the Philippine-American Association of CT Inc.
45 Murphy Road Prospect, CT
Email paac@paacinc.org
| January 19
Sinulog 2025: Viva Pit Senor
Main celebrant Bishop Efren Esmilla, DD
Church of the Assumption 98 Riverside Avenue Westport, CT
| January 19
Reina Filipina North America pageant
Palladium Times Square 1515 Broadway NYC
| January 31
Deadline to apply to 2025 IMPACT! Program for Filipino Americans by US-Asia Institute The leadership program is open to all U.S. or dual U.S./Philippine citizens aged 18 to 25, who are either undergraduate or graduate students in good academic standing or recent graduates with an undergraduate degree. Contact for details: https://www. usasiainstitute.org/impactprogram or https://tinyurl.com/mr37d8t4
| February 7 & 8
New York Fashion Week by Steadfast Creative Arts Production With Mrs. Universe Shreyaa Sumi
| April 26
1st Annual Maharlika golf outing Holbrook Country Club 700 Patchogue-Holbrook Road Holbrook, N.Y. 11741
Contact Ronnie Ocampo 516-582-7309
| May 23 to 26
UNIFFIED International Educators’ Summit New York City
| May 24 to 25
Maharlika Memorial Day Cup 75 Champ Blvd. Manheim, PA
Contact Ronnie Ocampo 516-582-7309
| July 16 to 20
46th Annual Convention of the Philippine Nurses Association of America
The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit 1114 Washington Boulevard Detroit, MI
Documentary ‘Mettle’ spotlights journey of blind judo Paralympian Liana Mutia
“Mettle,” the inspiring short documentary that chronicles the remarkable journey of Liana Mutia, a blind Filipino American judoka, has made its debut on the global stage.
The film premiered at the 2024 International Sport Film Festival in Napoli, Italy, on November 26 where it was honored with the prestigious award for “Best Student Work.” The film is co-directed by Chelsea Casabona and Surabhi Sundaram, and executive-produced by Robe Imbriano.
Mutia, battling health issues and severe injuries, has trained to create history at what could potentially be the final Paralympics of her career. She has been training for her second Paralympics, aiming to become the first American woman to bring home the gold in para-judo, a form of Japanese martial arts practiced by the visually impaired.
“Outside the dojo, Liana is a software analyst and video game developer. Living alone in a Philadelphia apartment, her days are a balancing act of office duties and rigorous judo practices,” according to a press statement.
The filmmakers said she wishes to lead a life “on her own terms” and provide for herself.
With years of dedicated training and hard work, Liana strives to fulfill her dream for herself and as a role model to her judo community and blind audiences across the country and the world.
champion, Parapan American Games silver medalist, and twotime World bronze medalist, she now has her sights set on the Paralympic gold.
Using the cinéma vérité style of filmmaking, archival footage, and expert interviews, this experiential sports documentary takes the audience into the inspirational life of a blind athlete who defies all odds to create history. Through Liana’s deeply personal journey, the filmmakers see her navigate both physical and social challenges one day at a time.
| The filmmakers
Surabhi Sundaram is a multimedia journalist with over four years of experience covering gender-based issues, public health, and politics. With a background in tennis and a love for sports, she gravitates towards sports journalism, driven by a passion to amplify stories of underrepresented communities.
Chelsea Casabona is a documentary filmmaker and journalist based in New York City. Inspired by her childhood career in Judo and stories from her Cuban and Puerto Rican grandparents, Chelsea enjoys making films that highlight the voices of women, immigrants, and athletes.
“Mettle” marks their debut as co-directors, drawing from their shared passion for social impact storytelling and journalism.
But at the age of 15, Liana’s life changed forever. Five years after being diagnosed with ischemic optic neuropathy, she gradually, but
Liana immigrated to the United States from the Philippines when she was 2. Her parents were destined to achieve the American Dream for themselves and their two daughters.
completely lost her vision, forcing her to relearn how to function as a person, according to the statement. Undeterred by her disability, she became the world’s #1 ranked para-judoka. As a two-time Pan American
Casabona and Sundaram developed “Mettle” as their master’s project in the Documentary Program at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. Through their dual roles as co-producers, co-editors, and co-cinematographers, the directors reveal the dedication and sacrifices that go into shaping a champion. “Mettle” screened the first week of December at Columbia Journalism School's annual DocFest.
Liana represented the United States in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Courtesy of 'Mettle'
She is a software analyst and video game developer and practices judo rigorously. Screenshot from Liana’s YouTube interview with Judo Academy
The Mestizo opens L.A. showroom, opportunities for modern Filipino wear brand
The Mestizo, the fashion brand that first got noticed online in 2021 with its intricately designed boleros celebrating the beauty of Filipino culture, recently opened a showroom in Los Angeles.
Gabe Gonzales, CEO and co-founder and the visionary designer of the brand, and his partner, Robert Kolosso, COO and co-founder, staged a threeday soft opening at their new location on 3308 Helms Avenue in Culver City, California. The showroom, displaying The Mestizo’s modern, wearable takes on Filipino fashion, from dresses, barong, crop tops to boleros, is now open to the public.
People attracted to The Mestizo’s contemporary, practical approach to Filipino designs can now browse the label’s products in the chic showroom.
Gonzales, who grew up in Manila, Philippines, was inspired by his mother, Teodora Gonzales, a 50-year veteran of the fashion industry. Although he initially pursued a healthcare career, excelling as a nurse before earning an MBA and a Ph.D. in business psychology, Gonzales has always nurtured his passion for fashion.
Kolosso is a Wisconsin native who worked in various automotive companies and is currently the Assistant Zone Sales Manager at American Honda Motor Co. Inc.
Inspired by their travels and shared vision, Gonzales and Kolosso took the leap of faith in 2021 and launched The Mestizo, which quickly earned a big following.
Kolosso said, “The Mestizo is a clothing brand that reimagines traditional Filipino designs for the modern world. This venture has been an incredible journey of learning and growth, from navigating the intricacies of LLC formation and budget management to orchestrating photoshoots and curating seasonal fashion show collections.”
Gonzales cited a sample of the duo’s creative partnership: “Our brand was the first to introduce a lined barong, designed to conceal the undershirt. It was Robert’s feedback and his Western perspective that inspired me to rede -
sign the barong into what it is today.”
The opening of The Mestizo’s first brick-and-mortar showroom in Los Angeles is a significant milestone. “It is a testament to our dedication and passion,” Kolosso said.
Gonzales explained what made them decide to have a showroom after three years of their garment products being available only online. He shared, “In the early days of our business, we tossed around the idea of opening a physical store. We both agreed to take a step back, set some criteria and figure out when the right time would be.
“At first, we were meeting with clients in the lobby of our apartment or in available conference rooms for custom orders or fittings (talk about humble beginnings!). But eventually, we realized that the setup wasn't working for us. Despite our initiatives on ‘slow fashion’ and its environmental benefits, we felt there were gaps in who we are as a brand, our service delivery, aesthetics and current setup.”
Kolosso added, “Another factor was when we started to feel some changes in consumer behavior that surfaced post-pandemic. So many untapped things in retail to explore. So, Gabe started researching the impact of social media on brand influence and the effects of evolving changes in consumer behaviors around online shopping.
“At that point, we realized we weren't addressing a key aspect of our brand which is engaging one's senses. That made us firmly decide we want our brand to really come to life; and have people experience, feel and immerse themselves in the atmosphere and vision we created for it.”
In 2023, Gonzales decided to leave healthcare and fully dedicate himself to expanding The Mestizo. Gonzales’ journey reflects his belief in the power of culture and fashion to inspire and connect people across the globe. Gonzales revealed some of the challenges he encountered as a fashion designer in LA.
“One of the biggest challenges I faced as a fashion designer in LA was more of an internal struggle, self-
doubt,” he shared. “I would often ask myself, ‘Is this beautiful enough?’ This uncertainty led to countless revisions before I felt comfortable approving any piece. It became a cycle of questioning my own work, which tends to slow down the process.
“Another significant challenge was my non-traditional background. I didn’t have formal education in fashion design – I was immersed in the industry growing up, as my parents ran their own Filipiniana garment business. Because of this, I wrestled with the idea of whether I truly deserved the title of ‘designer,’ especially since I didn’t know technical skills like cutting patterns.
“However, one day, a friend, designer, David Tupaz, offered me a piece of advice that changed my perspective. He reminded me that running a family business with over 50 years of history was more than enough validation. David’s words lifted me during a particularly low moment and made me realize that our legacy and the support from pioneer designers like him, give me the strength to face new challenges with a better attitude and mindset.”
so far. By staying true to our brand values and remaining open to new ideas, we've been able to navigate the complexities of the fashion industry and build a business that we're both proud of.”
Kolosso also shared, “Many of the challenges I've faced stemmed from having little experience in starting a business. As COO, I handle everything from an operational perspective: logistics of inventory, setting up business permits, paying sales tax, etc. These are just a few examples of things I had to learn on the fly.
“However, this process has also taught me how to be more resourceful, how to ask for help when needed and learn from others who have already gone through it. Overall, I believe our ability to adapt and respond to these challenges has been key to our success
When the pandemic hit, Gonzales had just moved to LA a year prior. He was in the middle of completing his Ph.D. in Business Psychology while also serving as an Emergency Department Director, a role that quickly escalated to Associate Chief Nursing Officer.
“Time seemed to blur; I worked long hours on very little sleep but it never felt exhausting because I was driven by passion.
“However, God has His ways as things took a turn when my job became absolutely overwhelming. From my boss to all the combined workload, it began to take a toll on my health, even leading to an immune system disorder diagnosis of
Co-founders and designers Gabe Gonzales (left) and Robert Kolosso. ‘Significant milestone.’
alopecia. That’s when my mom (and Robert) asked me the million-dollar question: ‘Why are you working for them?’ My mom, who had been in the fashion business for decades, encouraged me to shift my focus entirely to The Mestizo and our family business.
“Taking her advice was one of the best decisions I’ve made. My mother’s influence and guidance have been pivotal in this transition – her wisdom and experience gave me the confidence to pursue fashion full-time.”
Kolosso shared what he learned about being in the fashion industry: “Being in the fashion industry was never something on my radar. For as long as I can remember, I've been involved in the auto industry. My career began at age 14, working for my grandfather at his Toyota dealership in Wisconsin.
“I progressed through various roles there, eventually transitioning to the corporate side of the business in 2010. I've been with American Honda for nearly 10 years now as an
Assistant Zone Sales Manager for California and Hawaii.
“Partnering with Gabe on The Mestizo has been an eye-opening
experience. While seemingly worlds apart, the auto and fashion industries share surprising similarities, particularly in inventory management
and marketing. However, the vast differences, like the fast-paced fashion cycles, the emphasis on visual storytelling through shows and the intricate production methods, have been fascinating to learn. It's been a steep learning curve but incredibly rewarding.”
“Our vision is to create a brand that allows our clients—whether of Filipino heritage or those connected to it – to feel proud when they wear our designs. Each piece is not only rooted in culture but it also evokes grace and elegance.
“We believe that fashion serves as a universal form of expression and our garments are crafted to resonate with individuals from all backgrounds. By fusing traditional Filipino elements with modern design, we strive to create clothing that is both authentic and refined. Ultimately, we dream of The Mestizo becoming a brand that the world embraces – a melding of culture ingredients and style.”
More information at www.themestizo.com
From the Barong to the Bolero, The Mestizo has a carefully curated selection. Photos by Elaine and Ezrael Osorio of E-Films
Cecile Licad presents a solo recital for the holidays
By Marilyn Abalos
It was a delightful treat to kick off the holiday season with Cecile Licad’s concert on December 5th, in New York City. She performed to a sold-out crowd at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall.
She played Alexander Scriabin’s Two Impromptus, Op. 12, and 24 Preludes, Op. 28 by Frederic Chopin. She also performed Scott Joplin’s popular “rags” medley featuring Original Rag, Wall Street Rag, Leola, Stoptime Rag, Search-Light Rag, and Gladiolus Rag.
In addition she performed Amy Beach’s Hermit Thrust at Eve. Op. 92, No. 1 as well as Nocturne, “Ragusa” by Ernest Schelling and Alborada del grazioso by Maurice Ravel.
Cecile structured her concert to highlight Chopin’s great Preludes and grouped Joplin’s ingenious Rags in the second half of the concert. It was good to learn that Scriabin who referred to himself as a “Chopinist” opened the program leading this writer to anticipate Chopin’s lovely Preludes.
The Preludes were a mix of gems – big and small miracles. Having missed the piano and music in recent times, Cecile’s presentation of Chopin’s stirring melodies and beguiling harmonies made me fall in love with the piano again – and the mastery of Cecile’s talent!
It is wonderful to point out that Scott Joplin, born to a former slave and a freeborn Black woman, was already active in music in his late 20s. From 1899 to 1910, he composed and published his “Rags.” Cecile beautifully captured Joplin’s perky bustle and clamor of ragtime music
How great of Cecile to include Amy Beach’s work in the program. She is acclaimed as “the first American woman to achieve widespread success as a composer of concert works.” Brava to Cecile for her forte of Beach’s haunting piano piece.
I enjoyed Cecile playing Shelling’s Nocturne, “Ragusa” and Ravel’s flamboyant evocation of Spanish dance and song demonstrating her dexterity and lyricism.
Cecile Licad, the Philippines’ pride and joy, is hailed by The New Yorker as a world-class “pianist’s pianist.” In 1981 at age 20, she won the prestigious Leventritt Award which enabled her to perform Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 2 with the New York Philharmonic, Zubin Mehta conducting. The award also gave her an exclusive recording contract with CBS Masterworks and management by Columbia Artists. The first winner given after 10 years, Cecile joined the ranks of past Leventritt winners Van Cliburn, Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zukerman among others. She studied at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia with Rudolf Serkin, Seymour Lipkin and Mieczyslaw Horszowski. As noted in the program, she has performed as “recitalist and soloist with orchestras throughout the world.”
Cecile’s artistry can be heard on the Music Masters, Naxos and Songy Classical labels, including Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Chicago Symphony, Claudio Abbado conducting.
The solo recital was presented by Key Pianists, a concert series at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, by American pianist Terry Eder.
A rich repertoire from Chopin to Joplin. Photos courtesy of Hemsing Associates, Inc.
Licad, the ‘recitalist and soloist’
JV Valino & Jessy Daing: The best friends’s wedding
By Cristina DC Pastor
Best of friends for nine years, JV Valino and Jessy Daing became a married couple on November 25, 2024, in a destination wedding that took them and their 65 guests from the Hudson River Waterfront in Bayonne, N.J., to the lovely Bahamas seas.
Sailing amid the island’s refreshing blue waters, JV and Jessy pledged to love one another, with Jessy, a director at the largest transportation agency in US – MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority), especially grateful at finding a “partner, an incredible father for my son Kaeden, and a teammate for life.”
The cruise wedding was planned for at least two years even before JV made his proposal, Jessy confessed, breaking into laughter. JV and Jessy are producers of Over A Glass Or Two, the first and only Filipino podcast globally televised on The Filipino Channel (TFC) and Jeepney TV. He’s also a producer for The Loida Lewis Podcast, and a U.S. Managing Partner of GIGIL New York ad agency in the Philippines that is making a crossover to the United States. She probably had an intuition their romance was leading to the altar, so she had made mental plans. Comparing costs, she found out cruise weddings are rare, more exciting and more practical compared to the traditional on-land wedding.
“Our intimate, simple yet elegant Bahamas wedding cruise was truly one of a kind,” she said. “We were not expecting so many of our loved ones to join us, especially since it was Thanksgiving week, but to our surprise, our friends and relatives showed up to celebrate with us.”
The ocean views were breathtaking, and the cruise staff and crew provided exceptional service, with the Filipino crew members going above and beyond to ensure an unforgettable experience. Their warmth and attention to detail
truly stood out. The food was extraordinarily drool-worthy, adding to the overall delight.
While there were a few minor limitations, like the prohibition of candles and fresh flowers on a cruise ship, everything was stress-free and well worth it, with just a bit of extra effort for the decorations, according to Jessy.
Instead of a candle ceremony, the couple performed a sand ceremony where JV’s blue sand (representing the ocean) and Jessy’s burnt orange (representing the Fall season) sand mixed in a brief mingling ritual.
The Dulce de Leche cake
Flower girls Kenzie Delos Santos and Penelope Moreno
Maid of honor Rachel Alejandro sings the newlyweds’ favorite ‘The Way You Look Tonight.’
JV and Jessy’s intimate, elegant Bahamas wedding cruise. Photos by Jaypee Noche
“Bawal ang candle sa ship because of the fire risk,” she said. “All our candles were battery-operated.” The flowers were DIY using craft papers, wire and glue sticks. There were limited options for fresh flowers, and Jessy had a different vision of the flowers and colors in mind.
“I’m an arts-and-crafts person so I loved doing it,” she said.
“Cruise weddings gave us the chance to spend quality time with all of our guests, unlike traditional weddings where everyone leaves after the event,” she said.
The guests had their fill of food and drinks every night, some of them partied till 3 a.m. to 4 a.m. for seven straight days from November 24 to December 1. Through it all, guests and bridal party sailed for a week enjoying one another’s company, making new acquaintances and getting to know old and new friends more intimately.
“There were guests who didn’t know they went to the same school until they met at the wedding,” she recalled in jest. “Everyone became closer as they played in the casinos, watched theatre shows and musicals, danced in the club, sang at the karaoke, and engaged in many other activities.”
The Money Dance, one of the highlights of the celebration, had the couple dancing as guests pinned dollar bills all over their elegant attire. It’s an old-fashioned Philippine tradition uncommon in contemporary urban weddings but JV, whose ancestry roots hail from Bicol and Cabanatuan, and Jessy, whose parents are from Cebu and Bohol, decided to incorporate a folksy Filipino custom to their modern vows.
JV as ‘Dad’Thirteen-year-old Kaeden, appearing manly looking in a suit and blue tie and sporting a faintly growing moustache, walked his mother to the altar. Kaeden and
Sponsors Roy & Lourdes Corrales; Efren & Esperanza Luce; Tomas & Isabel Payumo; Maria Belen Luce Balingit; and Mercy Pelipada
JV are close, he calls him “Dad.” It was JV who taught him how to read and write, helped with his homework, took him to school and helped shape his values about how men should treat women. Kaeden is also equally close to his birth father, said Jessy, adding how the teen is lucky to have the love from both fathers.
Jessy’s maid of honor is the popular actress-singer Rachel Alejandro. She dedicated her song “The way you look tonight” to the bride, a friend of longstanding. The mostly Filipino crew wished they had witnessed the wedding because they heard from others how Rachel wowed the crowd with her performance. Many of them requested to
Longtime friend Jcas Jesse Castro brings out the goofy in bride Jessy. The two co-host the popular podcast Over a Glass or Two.
have their selfies taken with her. FilAm Hollywood designer and Project Runway Season 19 contestant Kenneth Barlis designed the wedding gown, bringing Jessy’s vision of a unique yet elegant cruise-inspired look to life. She wanted a gown that stood out from traditional wedding dresses, with a high-low hemline and a touch of simplicity. The design embraced the “cruise vibe.”
Jessy and JV also tapped the services of talented global destination videographer and photographer, Jaypee Noche. Based in Cebu City, Jaypee’s passion for capturing genuine moments has taken him around the world from Australia and New Zealand to the USA, Singapore, and the UAE.
The ship’s crew was overjoyed to share that JV and Jessy’s wedding was the “first largest wedding” held aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas.
“They were so proud that it’s a Pinoy couple who made history,” said Jessy.
The crew surprised the party with a Filipino breakfast “tapsilog,” which she said “made our special cruise even more meaningful.”
All the partying must have taken its toll on Jessy who came home feeling under the weather. She lost her voice and had to take a sick day from work to recover from the week-long “Bahamas Beauteous Fête.”
JV and Jessy remain full of excitement from their cruise wedding, but back home they are “ready to embrace the next chapter of our lives and to grow old together.”
Son Kaeden walks his mother down the aisle.
The wedding party with Maid of Honor Rachel Alejandro (far left); and bridesmaids Vee Caylan, Monica Capiral, Ghia Calalang, and Jenny Lucas
The Money Dance: Filipino tradition in a modern destination wedding. Ninang Ludy Corrales (left) pins her gift.
Photo by Jaypee Noche