PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016
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Bennette Espineli Misalucha 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 Liso Jeff Orig James Ramos COLUMNISTS Edna Alikpala Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Jesse Bacon II Nancy Bernal Cesar Bonilla Alice Llanos Busmente Amelia Casamina Cabatu Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao Zeny Muyot 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
Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and other material submitted. Reproduction of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am courier is forbidden without written permission. All photos submitted become the property of the Fil-Am Courier.
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“Ay, Naku! I don’t want my son to play football because he will get hurt!” How many times have I heard a Filipino mom say this in response to the possibility of a son (or a daughter) playing some kind of contact sport. Let’s face it, Filipino moms are more protective than most, and we sometimes hold back our children from taking risks because we are afraid they will get hurt. We believe we have their best interests at heart. “No, you can’t go swimming, because you will drown.” I heard my own mother say this to explain why I could not go to the beach with friends when I was growing up. As a result, I never learned to swim or even enjoy any type of water sports, despite the fact that I grew up surrounded by water all my life in the Philippines or here in Hawaii. By the way, this is not rare at all as I know many Filipinos who cannot swim either. Somehow, the irony of this statement is lost on us: how can you prevent your child from drowning if you don’t allow them to learn how to swim? Apparently, the answer lies in not getting them close to water. Huh? Risk can take many forms. “Stay in Hawaii, anak. Don’t go to college in the Mainland. Too far. The world is not safe.” College on the Mainland is the ultimate risk for parents since the distance would mean they are no longer able to protect their child from danger, or even temptations. And with the evil things that are happening in the world, it is so easy to choose the safe passage. Unfortunately, in all these circumstances, although our children may be protected from danger, what we are actually doing is choosing to live in fear. This prevents our children from gaining experiences that could benefit them. Staying safe stalls their progress and stymies their growth. It curtails them from embracing life in all its glory. The truth is our Filipino culture somehow rewards safety versus the thrill of the big prize. We are typically not the first ones to raise our hand when the results are not guaranteed. As an example, one needs to look no further than some of the jobs our kababayans choose. We are content to slave it out with three safe but low-paying jobs rather than going back to school in pursuit of a career that may have long term viability. And even with the careers we choose, we steer our children to be lawyers, doctors and professionals (riskaverse professions), rather than be entrepreneurs or investors. In the world of investing, the Filipinos carry this risk-averse
THE ART OF TAKING RISKS attitude to their detriment. According to the latest survey c o nd uc t ed by t he Manulife Investor Sentiment Index (MISI), Filipinos tend to be conservative and most of us still prefer to keep our income in cash rather than take risks in different investment measures. The survey revealed that cash accounted for 43% of the Filipino investors’ asset portfolio while the prevailing wisdom is to keep that ratio below 10%. Our language reflects this truism. There is no word in Filipino that translates to “risk”. The closest word is “panganib” which actually means, “danger”. There are some who suggest that that Filipinos are risk averse because of the “unpredictable nature of life in a politically and economically unstable, developing country.” Could it be that this programming is already built into our psyche that even if we are already in the United States, the land of plenty, a land of relative stability, we still cannot seem to escape our destiny? Is this why there are fewer Filipino entrepreneurs, in Hawaii and elsewhere? Whatever the reason may be, I think we need to recognize that change is needed. We need to cultivate an environment where we can be comfortable operating in uncertainty. After all, greater risks yield greater rewards as well. As they say, “no guts, no glory!” And if change needs to happen, that change needs to happen in the home. In a recent article in Inc., a magazine for entrepreneurs, the author Duane Spires, CEO of Extreme Youth Sports, shared ten steps to teach children to be entrepreneurs. The article’s main points are reprinted here: 1) Goal setting – Teach your children that setting and accomplishing goals is a fun and exciting activity. Ask your children to write 10 goals and choose the one goal that would have the most impact. Then write the steps necessary. Encourage them to start immediately. 2) Kids must learn to recognize opportunities - Many people never meet their full potential because they fail to recognize opportunity. Teaching your children to seek out opportunities and take action on them will directly contribute to their level of success. Praise your children by pointing out small problems or set-backs. Brainstorm solutions on how to resolve their troubles. This will
teach them to focus on creative solutions instead of focusing on the problem itself. 3) Financial Literacy is a must. Teaching children about money at an early age will instill a financial foundation that schools often fail to teach. Give your children an opportunity to earn their own keep through chores. Help them set up their own small business. Teach them about paying themselves first and then giving back. Educate them about investing and how their money could be used to create more money in the future. 4) Inspiring creativity will build marketing skills. Teaching k i d s a b o u t m a r ke t i n g i s a great way to prepare them to attract customers to their future businesses. Motivate your children to start observing materials like billboards, promotional banners, etc. Ask them what catches their attention about the message. Encourage them to create their own marketing materials for their business idea. 5) Schools are wrong about failure. In school we were taught that failure is bad. In the entrepreneurial arena, failure can be a great thing if a positive lesson is learned. Allowing children to fail will force them to create new ways to accomplish their goals and learn from their mistake. When your children fail, do not punish. Instead discuss what factors lead to the failure and brainstorm ways to prevent it from happening again in the future. Always seek to find the learning lesson in every adversity and encourage your children to never give up. 6) Effective communications improves all relationships. Most children today are terrible at face to face and telephone communications because of the popularity of social media and text messaging. Successful businesses require people to speak to one another. First, lead by example. Teach your children to be polite and respectful. Practice eye contact. Practice communicating with emails. Avoid abbreviations and write grammatically correct English. 7) Independence creates confidence - The entrepreneurial mindset causes kids to depend on themselves for their own success. The next time your children ask for money to buy their favorite toy, this is your opportunity to ask them to brainstorm ways to create the money through entrepreneurship. 8) Get the advantage by becoming a leader now – Children are taught in school to go with
the flow and to follow the rules. They are programmed to learn and memorize the facts instead of becoming independent thinkers. Entrepreneurship forces children to think “outside the box”. Give your children the opportunity to lead their friends in fun activities such as outdoor sports, book clubs, etc. Also get them to speak at family events. 9) Selling is involved in every part of life – This one ability will last a lifetime because it is applied to all types of businesses and careers. This skill is vital to the success of any business. Encourage your children to start with small projects like starting a lemonade stand, or selling their old toys. Let them price their product, sell to customers and facilitate transactions when sales are made. 10) The art of giving back creates happiness – It is important for your children to develop the characteristic of helping others. When brainstorming business ideas with your children, ask them to choose a charity or special cause to support with a portion of the income that they generate. Explain the concept that all great businesses contribute to improving the lives of other people. In this issue of the Filam Courier, we feature on our cover the 40 th anniversary of an iconic Hawaii brand: L&L Drive-Inn which will mark the milestone with a big convention on April 5-7, 2016. Leading the charge is the energetic livewire Eddie Flores, the quintessential entrepreneur, who, along with his partner Johnson Kam, built L & L into the success it has become. It is noteworthy to mention that Eddie Flores has not only achieved business success but he has made it a point to give back to the community as well. As the next generation of leaders is being cultivated at L & L, namely Bryan Andaya and Elisia Flores, we pay homage to L & L’s past and the amazing journey from its humble beginnings at the Liliha location to the multiple franchises throughout the world. We salute L & L, as well as Filipino entrepreneurs in Hawaii who pursue their dreams relentlessly, and who take great risks in pursuit of those dreams. May we be like them: May we never operate life from a vantage point of fear. Choose courage instead.
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016
By Marnelli Basilio Ulep
Our cover....
This colorful photo of the executive leadership of L & L Drive Inn was taken in front of the Walmart Keeaumoku location. Left to Right: Vice President and COO Bryan Andaya, Vice President and CFO Elisia Flores and President and CEO Eddie Flores Photo credit by the talented James Ramos. James can be reached at (808) 345 -3924 or email him at james@ jamesramos photography.com. Cover concept by Noah Felipe of Orig Media. Mahalo to Jeff Orig. Both Jeff and Noah can be reached at www.origmedia. com or 808 447-9559.
The L & L Executive Team: Bryan Andaya, Elisia Flores and Eddie Flores (photo credit by James Ramos)
The words “plate lunch” and the name “L&L” pretty much go hand in hand in Hawaii. This year L&L DriveInn, also known as L&L Hawaiian Barbecue on the mainland, is celebrating its 40th Anniversary. From humble beginnings in Kalihi, the company has now grown to nearly 200 locations, spread across 6 countries and 12 states. In 1976, just six years after graduating from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Eddie Flores, Jr. bought L&L Drive Inn on Liliha Street as a gift to his mother, who, at the time, was working on another restaurant with dreams of running and owning one of her own. A few years later, Johnson Kam took over running the restaurant, and in the 1990s Flores and Kam decided they would offer franchising to expand the company. Business took off and, despite a recession in Hawaii, in 1992, L&L grew
to almost 40 locations after just a couple of years. Today, you will find L&L Drive-Inn and L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in Hawaii, California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, Utah, Texas, New York, Tennessee, Alaska, American Samoa, New Zealand, Japan, Indonesia and Guam. It’s two newest locations have recently opened in the Philippines. While we know and love L&L Drive-Inn here in Hawaii, mainland locations are called L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, branding which has gained popularity and loyalty among customers. In 2011, the company opened its first mainland location as L&L Hawaiian Barbecue and now there are plans to open up more locations in other states, such as Tennessee. Locations focus on offering great portions at low prices and sharing the spirit of aloha through food and hospitality.
L&L’s success has earned the company many awards and continued rankings in various local and national magazines. In 2002, L&L was named one of the “50 Regional Powerhouse Chains” by Nation’s Restaurant News. The July 2005 issue of Restaurant & Institutions Magazine ranked L&L #314 out of America’s top 400 restaurant chains. Additionally, Restaurant Business magazine ranked L&L #15 of its 50 Top Growth Chains in the Nation in 2005. Entrepreneur magazine has also ranked L&L’s parent company, L&L Franchise, Inc. at #165 out of the top 500 franchises in 2005. As is customary during their anniversary, L&L Drive Inn Keeaumoku (inside Walmart) will be offering 40 cent plate lunches from 10 am to 12 pm. All proceeds of the sale will go to the Hawaii Foodbank.
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Eddie Flores
President & Chief Executive Officer President Eddie Flores, Jr. t o o k s o m e t i m e t o answer a few questions about growing L&L and what they look forward to as they celebrate this milestone. Tell me about the beginnings of the company. After I graduated from UH Manoa in 1970, I worked for the bank for a few years. Then I quit the bank and started doing real estate where I made money fairly quickly investing in real estate. In 1976, I bought my mom a restaurant called L&L Drive-Inn. What has contributed to L&L’s success? L&L is the first local company to successfully franchise. We are also the first local company to go to the mainland and dominate the market. We are very proud that we have maintained our local identity. When we went to the mainland I used the term “hawaiian barbecue,” which has become popular. We have done a lot of things others have not tried. We were the first fast food restaurant to serve brown rice. We are also one of the first to serve a ramen burger. We are the biggest fast food restaurant chain from Hawaii and second largest Asian fast food chain in the United States. We also have had very loyal customers. Locals have always supported all the locations we are in. Some of whom drive miles for our food. For example, when we opened in Dallas, Texas, a group drove four hours from Oklahoma City just to eat the food. Have there been any significant challenges over the past 40 years? There have always been challenges. The most significant challenge is that food costs continue to rise, which can be difficult for us, since we are known for giving good portions at low prices. Another challenge is that it can very hard to find good employees. In order for us to be successful, we had to learn what has made others successful and understand how we can apply that to our business.
How has your focus on franchising and helping immigrants influenced your operations? When you walk into each L&L location, they will look different from the others. We give franchisees freedom to customize their locations according to their geographic location and demands and each of them operate independently. We offer a lot of help to them when they start out. And we have been able to help a few of them become multimillionaires by owning an L&L. In Hawaii, most of the franchisees are Chinese immigrants. We have a number of Filipino franchisees in San Diego, where we currently have 15-20 restaurants. Where would you like to see L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in the future? We currently do not have any locations in Europe and I would like to see us open a location somewhere there. What do you find most enjoyable about L&L? I have a lot of fun, working with people and dealing with the franchisees. I also enjoy having the opportunity to travel to see the different locations across the country and around the globe. Your daughter recently joined the L&L Organization. What has that been like? It is great. She came back from the mainland after twelve years where she went to school and worked for various companies. What do you like to do in your free time? I do a lot of volunteer work. When you experience success, it is important to always give back to the community. I work a lot with the Chamber of Commerce and the Filipino Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees). I also mentor a number young Filipinos too. I also recently started working with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce. They finally figured out that I am half Chinese.
What do you enjoy about mentoring? I like to see them be successful. Everything I know has pretty much been self-learned. I did not have a lot of support growing up and my parents did not really know how to motivate or tell me what to do. This is why I feel it is important for me to mentor young Filipinos and share my knowledge, so they can avoid some of the roadblocks on their journey. Do you have any advice for aspiring business owners? First, get an education. Be willing and ready to work really hard. And when you make money, give back to the community. Find a good mentor to support you. Especially for Filipinos, we need to work hard in order to move up. It seems that there are so little Filipinos who get a business education. When I slow down more and work less, I plan to take that on as my next project. More mentoring. Filipinos are behind in every economic and social aspect. Filipinos lack representation on the boards of foundations and large corporations. I recently learned in a presentation that during the plantation days, Filipino workers earned less than those of other ethnic groups. And that gap continues today. It is time to start closing that gap. Do you have any message for the Filipino community? Thank you for always supporting us. No matter what, Filipinos continue to patronize our various locations across the country. Eddie spoke more about helping others than his own success. And while he spends a lot of time thinking of ways to make L&L restaurants better and more competitive, he also thinks about how he can help the community. He considers the FilCom Center one of the greatest accomplishments of L&L. He also established the Filipino Fiesta and Parade, serving as its chair and major fundraiser for 10 years. In 2007, Eddie and his wife
Eddie Flores
Elaine created an endowed scholarship through the University of Hawaii at Manoa Shidler College of Business to support restaurant employees and their families. As I sat in the L&L offices on University Avenue, it is obvious that the company maintained its local and humble beginnings. Staff were seated close to each
(photo credit by James Ramos)
other and there was lively conversation throughout the space. I learned that the team at L&L Drive-Inn and Hawaiian Barbecue is concerned about more than just sharing Hawaii food culture, but also having a positive impact on our communities and the advancement of immigrant communities, especially Filipinos.
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Bryan P. Andaya
Vice President & Chief Operations Officer Bryan Andaya has been the Chief Operations Officer for L&L Drive-Inn/ L&L Hawaiian Barbecue since 2008. Born and raised on the Big Island, Bryan attended public school and followed his dreams of becoming a lawyer. Coming from a working class family, his father worked on the plantations on the Big Island and was the first in his family to graduate from college. After going to law school on the east coast and interning at a law firm in Chicago, he decided to return home to Hawaii to practice law, first serving as a clerk at the Hawaii Supreme Court, after which he then joined a local law firm, specializing in labor and employment disputes. In the late 1990s, he became involved in the Filipino Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees), and through his network met L&L President Eddie Flores, Jr. After a few years, Eddie invited Bryan to also teach for Real Estate Continuing Education School. Over time, the two would continue to support each other; Bryan would help Eddie with legal concerns and in turn Eddie would refer clients to Bryan. While Bryan continued to do well and make a name for himself as a lawyer, little did he know that Flores and L&L Drive-Inn/L&L Hawaiian Barbecue had other opportunities in store for him. In 2008, Flores offered Bryan an opportunity to join L&L. Taking all things into consideration, he decided to
take the risk, leave private practice, and he began work as Chief Operations Officer. Have there been any significant challenges working at L&L? The biggest challenge I have every day, is getting franchisees on the same page: buying the right ingredients, making recipes the right way. We have such good, hard-working franchisees, and our goal is to get everyone consistent, so that customers can walk in and feel that they know what they will get. We are not as strict as other franchises, but it is important to maintain consistency among the different locations. We have made progress in being consistent, and continue to do so since Elisia has joined our team. We are now considering various concepts, refreshing the current L&L Drive-Inn/L&L Hawaiian Barbecue brand, and possibly even starting a new brand, which itself presents another set of challenges moving forward. One special thing about L&L is that we are like a family, it really has a sense of ohana. So as we consider new changes, we have to consider them and how they will buy into new systems and concepts. Tell me a little about having Eddie as a mentor. Even before I came to L&L, he was a huge mentor. He really taught me the small business perspective and the business values
which I think were missing from what I had, which was a solid legal education and skills. Eddie has shown me how business works. I really think that Eddie’s strength is his ability to put himself in the shoes of another person and understand what their goals and motivations are. Then transforming them to support their own individual success and the organizations they belong to. And that is not a common ability. If you are able to put yourself in the shoes of someone else and understand where they are coming from. Eddie has taught me a lot about life, business, and always having a healthy perspective on life. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be where I am at today. I still remember learning about loyalty. And the importance of loyalty and how uncommon it is. And sometimes, he makes certain decisions and I wonder why, but it comes down to loyalty. You could have the most talented people around you. But if they are not loyal, you are not going to go very far. Eddie enjoys mentoring and he is always looking for people who remind him of himself to mentor and talk to. He really truly feels and loves giving back to the community. I have learned that as well, to stay connected to his community and represent them. And continue to be a role model and help people along the way, just like people have helped me. What do you like to do in your free time? Just like Eddie, I like to travel. I believe travel enriches you and changes you. I also like to spend time with family. My children are now 8 and 10 and they are growing so quickly right before my eyes. When reading profiles for different executives that I admire, so many mention the importance of making time to be with your family and children. My family and I like to travel at least once a year. We have gone to Europe, visited countries in Asia like Bali, Thailand, Japan, and Korea. We have also visited
(photo credit by James Ramos)
all the neighbor islands. I try to give my kids a diverse set of experiences. Most recently, we went on a camping trip in Leeward Oahu where we were able to participate in activities like preparing an imu and we slept in a tent under the stars. We had so much fun, just as much as if we would have visited another country. Any advice for young people? Find what you are passionate about, whatever it may be, and do it. The reason why I am so happy and continue to be in this role, is that my passion is sharing Hawaii with the world. I feel like I have the best job in the world. It melds my passion for travel and my passion for Hawaii together. What keeps me coming back to work every day is knowing I am part of a very special team and company that is bringing Hawaii to the rest of the world. When I visit our franchisees and I see people with little to no connection to Hawaii enjoy our food, it keeps me going. I knew from very early on, how much I loved everything about Hawaii the history, the culture, the mix of the people, the food, everything about it. I am very fortunate
and I thank Eddie for the opportunity. We are just starting, we have some exciting things coming. We will continue spreading Hawaii to the mainland and the world, making our islands recognized throughout the world. Where would you like to see L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in the future? I would like to see L&L on the east coast, specifically Washington D.C. I think that it has great potential, we have a lot of Hawaii connections of the Capitol and the surrounding areas. I think it would be very fitting, and being in the nation’s capital would showcase our type of cuisine, which is unique - plate lunch and local food. If we do it well, it could be the start of something really special. I would also like to see a return to New York City. It represents the cutting edge of everything - it is the self-proclaimed capital of the world. New York City has the best of what the world has to offer. So if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere. If we do have the opportunity and do it right, I think that it would be the next place to go. It could be attainable in the next five to ten years.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 7
Elisia Flores
Vice President & Chief Financial Officer As L&L celebrates its 40th Anniversary, what are your goals for the company moving forward? L&L has been able to do so many amazing things in the last 40 years. No one really expected that we would grow to 200 stores, 13 states, 6 countries. But now, we are at a point where we see the potential we have and are excited by the idea that we can keep growing. We have success stores in Texas and Tennessee, where there may not be as much Hawaii population. The goal is to continue to grow the company and refresh the brand, to make it fitting for new locations we enter and new customers. We plan to make some changes so we are coming up with new designs in the stores to make it more appealing. We can also expand the potential by actively seeking out franchisees and locations. (photo credit by James Ramos)
What do you enjoy about working for L&L? The restaurant industry is one of the few industries now that people can easily and frequently achieve the American dream. Which is so true, as people can work from a busser up to a restaurant owner. Then I reflect back on L&L, and while so many people know my dad and his partner, we have so many franchisees who, just within their own store, have done the same thing. And it has been the coolest, to be a part of a company that helps people achieve their American dreams. That is something I can totally get behind and be passionate about. I also love when I hear stories about people driving hours to eat at L&L because they miss Hawaii food so much and can’t find it anywhere else on the mainland. How has it been, moving home to Hawaii and working for L&L? It has been awesome. I was away for about twelve years and moved back in 2014. I had been working at a large corporation before I moved back and was unsure of how the transition would be, but it has been great. I love working with my dad and the entire team. Being at L&L feels like home. I grew up with it.
What was it like growing up with and around L&L? The memories I have with L&L include traveling and seeing all the fun stuff. I remember going to see a chicken factory and even a shoyu factory. My dad would take me to a lot of his meetings and I felt so excited to one day be a part of the operations. Then when I went away for school I saw other opportunities and decided to pursue those. When my dad suggested I come back to Hawaii to L&L, I was not sure I would love it, but when I did, I realized the difference is the passion for L&L. It is something my dad started and that I have been around all my life. So I want to put more effort and work into it, making it all the more fulfilling and fun. My dad has been the leader of the company. So anytime he would meet with people, the respect that he would get with the franchisees and how they looked up to him, how they appreciated him. I may not have understood it as much when I as a kid, but looking back, it’s like, “Wow, he accomplished so much.” So it is more meaningful now to come back and be able to help grow the company he started and be a part of it. He always looked like he had so much fun at work and he enjoys picking up new ideas. It has also been a passion of my dad’s to strengthen and build up the Filipino community.
Has living and working away from Hawaii informed your work with L&L now? Yes, 100 %. I think if I had not gone away for so long, it
would feel very different. First of all, if my dad was my boss for my whole life, I think we would not have the amount of respect and support for each other that we have now. Second, personally, I wouldn’t feel that I was adding as much value to the company as I could have been. I have a finance background, which is something no one else in the office has, so being able to bring that to the company, we can do new things. Also, having worked for a large company, working with people on the mainland, there was a need to always be hungry and want to climb the ladder, which has helped me to not be complacent and have drive. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I love my dogs. I also love enjoying the outdoors, like hiking, just being outside. One thing I didn’t know I missed was hanging out with my family while I was gone. I also enjoy the arts, going to the theatre.
Where would you like to see L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in the future? I want to see L&L everywhere! But if I had to choose, it would be Canada. I think we would be able to do well in Canada. I would also want to us to open up again in New York City. We used to have a location open there, but as Hawaiian food gains popularity, it would be great for our brand to be in such a dynamic and progressive city.
Marnelli Joy Basilio Ulep currently works at the University of Hawaii - West Oahu as part of the Business Administration Division. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Educational Administration. Marnelli and her husband own and operate Glorified Supply Co., and run the non-profit Reap and Sow, where they encourage people to use their passions in life to do good in our community. She also volunteers with the St. Joseph Waipahu AGAPE Ministry, a board member of the Sariling Gawa Youth Council, and was Miss Oahu Filipina 2010.
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THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 11
By Daniel B. Eisen, PhD
The answer to the question “Are Filipinos Asian?” is vague and unclear at best. While some say yes, others suggest that Filipinos are more closely aligned with Pacific Islanders or Latinos, o r t h a t s h o u l d j u s t b e considered Filipino. Skin color, language, religious preference, and the colonization of the Philippines by Spain and the United States is often cited as reasons that differentiate Filipinos from other Asian groups (e.g., Japanese, Chinese, Korean). Combine these factors with the disenfranchisement some Filipinos feel with the Asian American movement, which they believe focuses solely on East Asian groups and the answer to the original question becomes more convoluted and complex. In The Latinos of Asia: How Filipinos Break the Rules of Race, a Filipino sociologist at Cal Poly Pomona, Dr. Anthony Christian Ocampo, confronts the daunting task of answering this question. Focusing on the experience of FilipinoAmericans in the Los Angeles area, as the title of his book suggests, he provides profound insight into how Filipino individuals situate themselves between Asian and Latino. Ocampo paints a vivid picture of his participants’ lives, as they discuss their family relationships, balikbayan boxes, relationships with Filipino businesses and organizations, educational experiences in high school and college and the drastic transiti on between the two, dating scenarios, and friendships. Through these highly accessible narratives he demonstrates that many individuals understand that Filipinos are “technically” Asian, yet feel more culturally aligned with Latino.
Filipino Scholar Examines Relationship Between Filipino, Asian, and Latino For example, one his participants, Joey, claims, “I would say Filipinos are closer to Hispanics. Just because of the way we do things. It’s kind of like us, like Filipinos. They have big families. They are very welcoming as well.” Citing the strength of family ties, Filipino parties, religious practices, and a history of colonization by Spain, many of the participants find comfort and belonging in their similarities with Latinos. The similarities between Filipino and Latino culture, however, does not simply lead Filipinos to identify as Latino. In fact, there are advantages to being Asian. Fo r O camp o ’s participants this is especially true in high school, where being categorized as Asian shielded them from the negative stereotypes placed upon Latino students. This comfort in being Asian changes quite drastically in the college setting where the demographics shift and the East Asian population is significantly larger than the Filipino population. This demographic shift also leads many Filipinos to be misidentified as Latino and forces Filipinos, who do not neatly fit into either category, to negotiate their relationship with both Latino and Asian.
The latest book to explore the Filipino psyche.
Dr. Anthony Christian Ocampo
Overall, Ocampo does not provide a simple answer for “Are Filipinos Asian?” Instead he concludes “Filipinos are sometimes perceived as Asian, and sometimes they are not. Filipinos are sometimes mistaken as Latinos, and other times they are not.” The impact of this racial ambiguity extends far beyond the realm of “Filipinos’ identity development” and showcases the complexity of being Filipino in the Los Angeles area. The drastic difference in the size of Hawaii a n d C a l i f o r n i a ’s L a t i n o community makes the experience of Filipinos in Hawaii quite different than their California counterparts’ experience, but Ocampo’s Latinos of Asia is one of the few social science books that allows Filipinos to see their
culture, their struggles, and experience meaningfully represented and discussed. The conversations that this highly accessible and captivating read will start makes it a must read for all. And i f these conversations raise more questions than answers, one should bring these questions to Dr. Ocampo’s public talk at Honolulu Community College in October 2016.
Dr. Daniel Eisen grew up in Ewa Beach and graduated from Campbell High School before attending Pacific University, Oregon to earn his BA in Sociology. After living in Oregon for four years, he returned to Hawaii to earn his PhD in Sociology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where his doctoral work examined young adults’ development of a Filipino ethnic identity in Hawaii. Daniel Eisen is currently an Assistant Professor of Sociology and Assistant Dean of Strategic Initiatives at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016
By Pepi Nieva
Award-winning movie stars and directors are bringing the best of Filipino movies to Hawaii during the Honolulu Museum of Arts Filipino Festival April 2 to 16. The two-week festival starts with a revolutionary epic, continues with a literary classic and two family films, and ends with rom-coms featuring call center agents and family love. Hawaii movie goers can watch best actor awardees Robin Padilla as the revolutionary hero Andres Bonifacio, and Raymond Bagatsing as the Filipino National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin. Kris Aquino and her son Bimby star in the box-office hit, All You Need is Pag-ibig, an ensemble comedy by director Antonette Jadaone, a University of the Philippine alumnus. One of the country’s young, talented producers, Bianca Balbuena, will be the special guest during the screenings of her film, Above the Clouds, shot in the stunning Cordillera mountains. The festival begins with an opening-night dinner reception Saturday, April 2 at 6 p.m. followed by the screening of Bonifacio:
Bonifacio, Pacquiao, and Joaquin Headline Filipino Film Festival April 2-16
Filipino community partners with Honolulu Museum of Arts to showcase history, romance and more Ang Unang Pangulo. Max’s of Manila is recreating the dishes served at the 1898 inauguration of the first Philippine Republic while guests can enjoy traditional dances by the Bulacan Circle and eskrima martial arts demonstrations by Bandalan Doce Pares Hawaii. Filipino community organizations partnering with the Honolulu Museum of Arts to present this stellar movie lineup include The P hi l i p p i ne C el e b rat i ons Coordinating Committee of HI (PCCCH), the Filipino Community Center (FilCom), the Bulacan Circle, the Filipino Association of University Women (FAUW), the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC), Filipino Chamber of Commerce o f H awa i i ( F C C H ) , a n d the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii (PMAH).
T i c k e t s a r e $ 1 0 , available thru the website honolulumuseum.org. Youth 17 and under are free. Filipino Film Festival Schedule Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo April 2 Opening Night, 7:30 p.m.; April 3 and 19, 7:30 p.m. Starring Robin Padilla as Andrés Bonifacio and Vina Morales as Gregoria de Jesus, the story of the Philippine revolutionary and founder and leader of the Katipunan is told through the eyes of three high school students. Was Bonifacio the first president of the Philippine Republic? The film won Best Picture in the 40th Metro Manila Film Festival. Kid Kulafu April 5 and 7, 7:30 p.m.; April 15, 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Before he became one of the world’s greatest boxers, Manny Pacquiao (Robert Villar) lived a hand-tomouth existence. Director Paul Soriano turns “the nation’s fists” early years into an inspiring film that doesn’t shy away from the grit.
Ang Kubo sa Kawayanan • The House by the Bamboo Grove April 6, 9, and 16, 1 p.m. A talented calado embroiderer lives in a house by the bamboo grove, which she struggles to keep during a time of migration and cultural erosion. Winner and nominee of Best Picture awards in the Philippines and Singapore. Filemon Mamon April 3 and 10, 4 p.m.; April 7, 1 p.m. This musical comedy for all ages is based on a popular children’s book. With his dad fighting for worker rights and his mother working overseas, Filemon is left with his grandmother who loves to cook. A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino April 9, 4 p.m.; April 12, 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Based on the celebrated play by Nick Joaquin, this classic reflects a family’s struggle between old and new in pre-war Manila. Dahling Nick April 9, 6:30 p.m. This docu-drama weaves reenactments of Joaquin’s masterpieces and candid interviews with National Artists Bienvinido Lumbera and F. Sionil; Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison; and other Filipino writers and artists. Patintero: Ang Alamat Ni Meng Patalo April 3, 5 and 10, 1 p.m. A young neighborhood patalo (underdog) named Meng assembles an unlikely team of losers to join her in the ultimate battle for the streets: patintero.
Above the Clouds April 6, 7:30 p.m.; April 8, 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. After losing his parents to Typhoon Haiyan, 15-yearold Andy (Ruru Madrid) and his estranged grandfather (Manila rocker Pepe Smith) embark on an arduous trek into the Cordilleras. Winner of the Arte Prize from the Berlin International Film Festival. Sleepless April 13, 1 p.m.; April 14, 7:30 p.m.; April 16 4 p.m. In this offbeat rom-com, stressed out, insomniac call-center agents Gem (Glaiza de Castro) and Barry (Dominic Roco) develop an undefined relationship, quite possibly a romance, over several sleepless nights. All You Need is Pag-Ibig April 13 and 16, 7:30 p.m., April 14, 1 p.m. This heartwarming family movie explores the varied forms of love: family, sibling, puppy, unrequited, ruined, prospering, in denial, jaded, and true love. Starring Kris Aquino and her son Bimby, and Dick Ramsay, Best Actor winner and TV host.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 13
A Portrait of an Artist as Filipino has a Hawaii Connection
The Joaquin family with Tito Nick (L to R) Ed Joaquin, Lindy Joaquin Jalbuena, Bobby and Tina Erum, Nick Joaquin, Bing Villegas, Charing Joaquin, Cecile Yasay and sister Charon Villegas, now the executor of the Nick Joaquin Foundation.
Cecile Joaquin Yasay and husband Perfecto. Cecile works as a legislative aide to Sen. Donna Mercado Kim.
Filipino Association of University Women, will hold a reception in between the two movies and copies of Nick Joaquin’s book will be raffled that evening. Portrait will be shown again on Tuesday, April 12 (see schedule). In May, Cecile will travel to Manila to take part in planning for centennial events celebrating Nick Joaquin and his work in 2017. For information, contact Pepi Nieva at pepinieva @ hotmail.com, tel. 808-2251219.
Film heroines are based on real-life Joaquin aunts By Pepi Nieva
The classic A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino promises to be a highlight of the Honolulu Museum of Art’s Filipino Film Festival. The classic adaption of the revered literary work by the first Philippine National Artist for Literature, Nick Joaquin, Portrait is considered the most important Filipino play written in English. Performed on hundreds of stages from Manila to New York, A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino also appears as a novel, in a Tagalog translation, and even as a musical. Its author, Nick Joaquin is placed on par only with the national hero Jose Rizal and the great statesman Claro M. Recto. The novels and short stories of this longtime editor of respected magazines such as the Free Press and the Philippine Graphic are required reading in college courses. Like many of his writings, Portrait, set in pre-war Manila, focuses on the struggle to maintain our Filipino identity, especially our Spanish heritage, in light of increased pressures to adapt to modern, western culture. Just as interesting is
its local connection: the Joaquins of Hawaii. His niece and nephew who now live in Hawaii remember Joaquin as a caring and generous uncle who showered his brother’s children with love, time, and attention. (Long-time Filipino community fixture Dr. Nick Joaquin is also a relative: his father is the second cousin of his namesake, writer Nick.) “Tito Nick never married, concentrating instead on taking care of his mom, so he was like a second dad to us,” said Cecile Joaquin Yasay, who resides in an extended household with her brother Ed and their families in Honolulu. “ H e w a s s u c h a contradiction. He was very learned and wrote with varied levels of understanding, but he also wrote about actors like Nora Aunor and Ronnie Poe. He loved telling stories although he was painfully shy and refused to be interviewed. He never finished college, but he became the first National Artist for Literature and visited world leaders including Chairman Mao and Fidel Castro; he wanted to explore all schools of
thought. He was very religious and went to Mass daily, but he never did anything without a San Miguel beer in his hand.” According to Cecile, the two main characters in Portrait, the sisters Candida and Paula Marasigan, are based on her two maiden aunts, Nick’s sister Nene and grand aunt Naty. The poverty suffered by the genteel Marasigan sisters reflects the situation the Joaquin family faced when their lawyer father died and left nine children all under the age of 18. Of all the Joaquin siblings, only Cecile’s father, Enrique or Ike, entered and succeeded in the business world. Although Nick was paid millions to write biographies of the rich and famous, money was not important to him. Cecile will tell more Nick Joaquin stories after the 4 p.m. screening of Portrait
on Saturday, April 9, and before the documentary about the writer ’s life, Dahling Nick (he called everyone “darling”) shows at 6:30 p.m. Her organization, the
Pepi Nieva has been writing about Hawaii’s Filipino community since she edited and managed the precursor of the Filam Courier, the Hawaii Filipino News. While working in government and corporate public relations, she served on a number of industry and non-profit boards and is an active volunteer for the honolulu museum of Arts’ Filipino Film Festival commttee and the Filipino Association of University Women. She is now preparing for publication her father’s memories of his Bataan and World War II experiences.
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016
By Perfecto R. Yasay, Jr.
The Supreme Court of the Philippines has the exclusive power to interpret the Constitution and the laws of the land. The Chief Executive or the Legislature cannot supersede its decisions or curtail its constitutional authority. Only the Court can overrule itself. Under its power of judicial review, the Supreme Court has also the ability to declare that a legislative or executive act is in violation of the Constitution. And yet, the Judiciary is perceived to be the weakest of the three main branches of government. It has no power over the public funds, which solely rests in Congress. It has no enforcement arm to implement its rulings, which is under the control of the President. However, the force that gives primacy to the decisions
The Politicization of the Supreme Court
of the Supreme Court is the rule of law. In its simplest form, this means that no person is above the law. Not even the makers of the law and those tasked with its execution are exempt from being accountable under it. The two political branches, namely Congress and the Executive Department, do not
have control over the Supreme Court. The Justices are supposed to act independently and impartially. They are insulated from outside meddling. Like the President, they can be removed only through a tedious process called impeachment. Until May 29, 2012, no Justice of the Supreme Court had been removed through
impeachment. However, upon assuming office, President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III quickly used his awesome powers in assuring the ouster of Chief Justice Renato C. Corona. PNoy did not hide his disdain for CJ Corona whom he saw as crooked and beholden to his political nemesis and predecessor. The impeachment process was triggered by the so-called midnight appointment of Corona as Chief Justice on May 12, 2010 by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Earlier however, on April 20, 2010, the Supreme Court ruled that the constitutional prohibition against any presidential appointment within two months of an election does not apply to the Judiciary. Nevertheless, President Aquino felt he was unduly prevented from choosing his own Chief Justice. Thus, with popular backing, he breached the separation of powers and orchestrated the removal of Corona based on corruption charges. He even reportedly used his pork barrel funds to secure the conviction of the Chief Magistrate by the Senate. The manner that CJ Corona was expelled, with the President leading the charge, wrought a chilling effect upon the entire Judiciary. It served as a warning to all judges who refuse to toe the presidential line. It also engendered the politicalization of the Judicial Branch. Since then the delicate balance of power in government has been dangerously tilted. Recently, in carrying out its sole authority to interpret the Constitution, the Supreme Court decided the case of Mary Grace Poe Llamanzares whose status as a natural born Filipino was raised as a legal issue in connection with her bid to become the next President of the Philippines. The Court determined that a foundling is presumed to be born of citizens of the country where it is found. Because Grace Poe was discovered as an abandoned newborn infant in a parish church in Iloilo City of unknown parents, she
was held to be a natural born Filipino. This ruling was immediately decried as unconstitutional. Some of the detractors of Grace Poe also called for the impeachment of the justices that sided with the decision, which according to them spelled the demise of the Constitution. While this raucous criticism is accepted as part of free speech, it can chew into the fabric that holds the nation together. It is a vicious assault against a vital institution bestowed with constitutional duty of dispensing justice and in preventing abuse in the balance of power. Significantly, the decision did not deprive the electorate of their responsibility of choosing a President from among all the candidates including Sen. Poe based on other overriding qualifications like competence, experience and character. In fact, they may reject her in the belief that she lied about her citizenship and residency as legitimate political concerns distinct and separate from the legal issues resolved by the Supreme Court. The people should realize that what is paramount is to safeguard the last bastion of their rights and liberties from undue political pressure and influence. Towards this end, they must fulfill the sacred duty that the Constitution empowers them to do exclusively: choosing wisely the next President and their representatives in Congress.
After successfully practicing law in the Philippines and the United States, “Jun” served as Chairman of the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission under President Fidel V. Ramos. He is currently Chairman of the Board of the Philippine Christian University in Manila, and a member of the Board of Governors of the Filipino Community Center. Yasay, along with his wife Cecile and daughter Stephanie, is a resident of Honolulu.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 15
PHILIPPINE CONSULATE HOLDS PHILIPPINE ELECTIONS STARTING ON APRIL 9 Philippine Consul General Gina Jamoralin is calling on Philippine nationals or dual citizens who had registered to vote in the 2016 elections to participate in the overseas absentee voting process. Jamoralin said there are more than 8,000 registered voters in the State of Hawaii. Jamoralin stated there are four steps in the election process: 1) Check if your name is included in the certified list of overseas voters a t w w w. p h i l i p p i n e s honolulu.org. 2) If your name appears on the list, you need to complete the Letter of Instruction (LOI) form which can also be downloaded at www. philippineshonolulu.org. The actual form can also be obtained in person at the Philippine Consulate. 3) S u b m i t t h e L O I i n person or through an email (overseasvoting. honolulu@gmail.com) no later than April 22, 2016. LOI received after April 22 will not be processed. 4) If you choose Postal Voting, wait for the ballot to be mailed to your address. You may mail the ballot back to the Philippine Consulate, 2 4 3 3 Pa l i H i g h w a y, Honolulu, Hawaii 96816 on or before May 9, 2016 at 1:00 am. Ballots received after the deadline will not be counted. If you choose Personal Voting, you may vote at the Philippine Consulate anytime from 8 am April 9, 2016 to 1:00 a.m. of May 9, 2016. Voting precincts are open everyday including weekends from
Consul Gen. Gina Jamoralin
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information, please check the website: www.philippineshonolulu. org.
HC&S DISPLACED WORKERS TO GET ASSISTANCE
Displaced workers at the Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Company (HC&S) will be able to get some financial relief via the federal government. The US Department of Labor (USDOL) approved the request for federal funding which made history as this is the first time ever that Hawaii sugar plantation workers displaced by foreign trade will receive such funding. This positive news was recently announced by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz who worked in tandem with USDOL Secretary Tom Perez to explore how to fund the request and determine the eligibility of HC&S. In an exclusive statement to the Fil-Am Courier, Senator Schatz, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee stated that, “This is great
Senator Brian Schatz
news for Filipino workers at HC&S and for Maui. This federal money means that the hundreds of Filipino workers at HC&S will have additional financial support to make ends meet and an opportunity to gain new skills and find a new job. For generations starting with the sakadas, hard-working Filipinos helped build our
sugar industry and our local economy. That is why it is so important that we continue to find more ways to support the Filipino community and preserve its strong legacy.” The federal monies can be used to help replace lost wages and will cover expenses for job retraining including tuition, books and transportation. Workers can access up to $2,000 a month in direct cash support for an additional year or longer while they are going through retraining for a new job. However, the amount may vary according to individual situations. The displaced HC & S workers can call the Workforce Development Division one stop office at (808) 984-2091 for more information.
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016
By Nancy Bernal
Kapena
Left to right: Jonathan Butler, Michael Paulo and Jon Gibson at their concert
The Pomaikai Ballrooms presents an Administrative Professionals Day Celebration featuring Leo Days’ Tribute to Elvis Show on April 27 at 11 a.m. til 1 p.m. Back by popular demand, Leo Days returns to Honolulu for this special performance. This dynamic Elvis Tribute Show features award-winning Elvis performer – Leo Days in authentic costumes, a full band, back-up singers and dancers. Al Waterson (Top Emcee and Entertainer) will be hosting the event and adding to the fun with prize giveaways. Tickets for this event are only $45.00 per person and includes a complete lunch buffet and the fabulous show. Leo Days - Tribute to Elvis Show
Lyric Medeiros and Tani Lynn Fujimoto after “Guys and Dolls”
For reservations or more information, call 695-4496. ••••• T h e I o l a n i Fa i r i s happening on the grounds of the school on April 15 and 16 at 12 noon til 10:30 p.m. on each date. There will be rides, games, food booths, talent competitions and entertainment. Leo Days’ Tribute to Elvis Show is scheduled on April 15 at 9 til 10 p.m. For more information , check out www.iolanifair.org ••••• Michael Paulo presented an inspirational gospel/ smooth jazz concert on March 11 at New Hope Auditorium featuring legendary Musician and S o n g w r i t e r – J o n at h an Butler and Christian Artist – Jon Gibson. Michael Paulo and Rene Paulo also entertained in this superb smooth jazz concert and the combination of all of these acts brought the audience to their feet dancing to the music. ••••• Stay tuned for details a b o u t M i c h a e l P a u l o ’s next Smooth Jazz Concert scheduled for May 14 at The Hawaii Convention Center at 8 p.m. ••••• Get ready for the annual Pride for Ewa Event on April 30 presented by Ewa By Gentry Community Association at Hoalauna Park, 91-1330 Keaunui Drive. This event offers food booths, crafts, children activities and non-stop entertainment beginning at 11 a.m. til 5 p.m. Al Waterson is the emcee for this family-oriented celebration. Entertainment includes Jordan Segundo at 3 p.m., Kapena at 4 p.m.
and a variety of community groups. Admission is free and the public is welcome. ••••• Ta n i Ly n n F u j i m o t o (Professional Actress, Singer and Model) originally from Hawaii and now based in Korea, was in Hawaii recently visiting family. While in Hawaii, she acted in a principal role in a television p i l o t an d t o o k t i m e t o check out the production of “Guys and Dolls” at Mamiya Theatre featuring some of Hawaii’s best student talent. As a student at Sacred Heart Academy years ago, Tani played leading roles in two productions at Mamiya Theatre– “Chicago” and “Aida”. She enjoyed watching Lyric Medeiros (Daughter of Glenn Medeiros) playing a leading role in “Guys and Dolls”, bringing back memories of her days on that stage. ••••• May 14 is the date for The 24th Annual Filipino Fiesta and Parade and The 4th Annual Flores De Mayo presented by The Filcom Center and L & L Hawaiian Barbecue at 9 a.m. til 5 p.m. at Kapiolani Park. The entertainment line-up is in the process of being finalized and the names of the major stars participating will be announced soon. Mark your calendars for this incredible event and admission is free. ••••• For now, That’s Entertainment! ••••• (If you would like to submit entertainment information, please contact Nancy Bernal at 947-5736 or e-mail her at NancyBernal@ aol.com)
THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 17
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016
By Rhoda Yabes Alvarez, Esq.
Question: I have been following the U.S. presidential debates and so far, there has been an anti-immigration wave of sentiment due to the recent spate of terrorism in the U.S. and around the world. Is there any action to counteract the negative perception on immigration? What is being done to address the existing backlogs in family based immigration?
H.R. 4798: Reuniting Families Act Answer: On April 7, 2016, the America Immigration Lawyers’ Association (AILA) will hold the 2016 National Day of Action to tell members of Congress that America needs leadership on immigration. The National Day of Action is the day when AILA members from all over the country descend on Capitol Hill to visit their Representatives and Senators to discuss immigration issues that
affect their clients, such as family reunification, business immigration, and other important immigration issues. It is important to let our leaders know that we need action to fix a broken immigration system and that inaction has its costs. It is the time of the year when immigration advocates lobby in Washington to move the immigration agenda forward and to remind them why immigration has made this
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country great. This year, in particular, AILA wants Representatives and Senators to know that it supports H.R. 4798: Reuniting Families Act. On March 17, 2016, Representative Mike Honda (D-CA) introduced the Reuniting Families Act. The bill will help reduce the current family-based backlogs by increasing the number of green cards available, and eliminate discrimination against same-sex couples in our immigration laws. The bill was introduced with 74 cosponsors. For example, the bill aims to reduce backlogs in waiting time for visas by recapturing green cards which were unused in previous years. It also aims to reclassify spouses and children of lawful permanent residents as immediate family members. This will result in removing the cap on the number of visas being issued each year as immediate relatives are not subject to annual numerical caps. (AILA Doc No. 16032265, dated March 17, 2016) AILA supports the bill because it provides a counterpoint against the anti-immigrant rhetoric that we have been hearing in the media from the presidential
campaigns. The bill allows for an opportunity for America to be great again by allowing families to be reunited and to work together at securing a shared future by building positive communities. It is important to create an awareness of the bill as it provides an example of a different point of view on the direction where immigration should be going. Instead of fanning negative antiimmigrant sentiments, we should focus on the positive e f f e c t s o f i m m i g ra t i o n without turning a blinding eye on securing the borders. Stay tuned on the developments of H.R. 4798: Reuniting Families Act. Tune in to Legal Pinoy, Friday mornings, 8:30 to 9 AM, and Mondays on the afternoon drive, 4 to 4:30 PM, on 96.7 FM, 11:30 A.M. Cable 882 and streaming on iHeartradio .com.
Rhoda Yabes Alvarez, Esq. is an attorney with offices in Honolulu and the Philippines. She is licensed to practice law in Hawaii, New York and the Philippines. Her practice areas include U.S. Immigration Law, Family Law, Commercial Law and Philippine Law. Atty. Yabes Alvarez can be reached at 1-808-589-7380 or by email at rmyalvarez@ filamlaw.com. Her Honolulu office is located at 905 Umi St. Suite 206, Honolulu, HI 96819. Atty. Yabes Alvarez is fluent in Ilocano and Tagalog. Visit her website at www.filamlaw.com.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 19
By brandon elefante Council Member City and County of Honolulu
Honolulu City Budget Underway
The Fiscal Year ‘17 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget was introduced as Bill 15 (2016) on March 2, 2016 as required by the City Charter. The City Council will hold Budget Committee Briefings on this and other budgets in March. Proposals for amendments will then be discussed at future Budget Committee and Full Council meetings. The City’s budget must pass by June 15, 2016 and it will take effect on July 1, 2016. I am also working on replacing the play equipment at Waiau Neighborhood Park, refurbishing the play equipment at Waiau District Park, and providing funds for a master plan of Hans L’Orange Neighborhood Park. If you have any questions about these proposed projects or anything else in the City Budget, please contact my office. One of the best parts of being on the Honolulu City Council is having the opportunity to celebrate people and their accomplishments. At the March 16 Full Council Meeting, I was honored to sponsor Honorary Certificates for deserving members of our community. I wish everyone a happy Spring that blooms each day with renewed hope, health, and joy.
Councilmember Ron Menor and I co-sponsored an Honorary Certificate to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of St. Joseph Church in Waipahu.
The Honolulu City Council honored the Pearl City High School Lady Chargers on winning the 2016 Queens Medical Center HHSAA Division 1 State Girls Soccer Championship. This championship was the Lady Chargers’ first title since 1997 and its fifth title in school history. Brandon Elefante represents Honolulu City Council District VIII, which covers Aiea, Pearl City, and Waipahu. He is an active member of several organizations including the Filipino Junior Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii. He can be reached at (808) 768-5008, and his email isbelefante @honolulu.gov.
CIP Projects proposed for Council District 8. Manana Corporation Yard Improvements: Design $650,000 Pearl City Corporation Yard Renovations: Design $25,000 Pearlridge Bus Transfer Center Transit Oriented Development $2,995,000 Design, Construct and Inspect Mixed used bus transit center and plaza Pearl City Fire Station Relocation: Site Selection $50,000 Traffic Engineering Devices at Various Locations $50,000 Includes Planning & Design for Mahoe Street from Waipahu Street to Hiapo Street Traffic Signals at Various Locations $330,000 Includes Construction for Kuala Street and Acacia Road Flood Control Improvements at Various Locations $810,000 Includes Construction for Kalauao Stream Complete Streets Islandwide $1,400,000 A portion of this includes Mahoe Street and Waipahu Street Farrington Highway Improvements: Plan and Design $1,000,000 Rail Station Connectivity—Transit Oriented Development $1,000,000 Includes Waipahu Rail Station Access Improvements Rehabilitation of Streets Islandwide $100,000,000 A portion of this includes Pali Momi Street, Kaamilo Street, and Ulune Street Bridge Rehabilitation at Various Locations $200,000 Includes two footbridges over Moanalua Road Sewer Mainline and Lateral Projects Islandwide $19,500,000 A portion of this includes sewer rehabilitation at Harbor View, Aiea Kai Place, and Kauhale Street Waimalu Wastewater Pump Station Force Main System: Plan and Design $801,000 Pearl Harbor Historic Trail: Reconstruct and inspect trail improvements $900,000 Recreation District No. 3 Improvements $1,500,000 Recreation District No. 5 Improvements $310,000 Renovate Recreation Facilities $710,000 Includes pools at Pearl City DP and Waipahu DP as well as a roof at Waipahu DP Ted Makalena Golf Course $2,366,000 Includes Parking ($1,191,000), Maintenance Yard ($803,000), Irrigation ($45,000), and New Cart Paths ($1,050,000).
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PAGE 20 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016
by Dr. Rickie Camara
H o m e c a n b e m a ny things to many people. It can be a place where one lives or where one is from or even an institution where people are cared for. The word itself has its home in Germanic and Old English roots from “haims” or “ham,” denoting a village, an estate, or even just a house, with emphasis on the place being a gathering of people. This is as opposed to the word, “house,” whose origins are related to the verb, hide. We go to our house to be alone; and we go home to a place of sharing and gathering. Our body is our home, too, and its center is the heart. The heart is the first functional organ to develop in the embryo, beginning to form at around the 18th day after fertilization and starting to beat and pump blood by the third week. It is the place from which other organs in the developing fetus get their pulsating signals to unfold and develop. It is the embryonic
Nothing to Write Home About
origin of love. A closed-off heart is a house; and an open heart, a home. Opening your heart
implies receptivity to the energy around you and that has profound physical, psychological, emotional,
social and spiritual benefits. It is important physically to maintain a posture with an open and lifted chest and relaxed shoulders, not just to breathe better but to open the heart space. For to be heart-less is to be ‘homeless.’ Take care of your body; it is where you live. Keep it clean and tidy, hydrated and nourished. Keep the head up and stand tall, taking your place in this world. Have your heart in the right place; and certainly not in the mouth as there is no need to carry anxiety with you. Have shoulders to cry and lean on to support others in their journey. Avoid the eyes getting bigger than the stomach thereby living within your means. Shake a leg and always have your best foot forward as you dip your toes into the waters of life. We like to think of Earth as separate from us; but we are a part of, not apart from, this planet. It is very much our home, too. Earth embraces and nurtures all life; and if only we would do the same for her. Even the planet’s forces such as gravity are actively shaping our lives. Gravity influences the development of our musculo-skeletal system, and played a major role
in evolution as species crawled from the sea and began to populate the land masses. We are a product of our physical environment; and so as E.T., the extraterrestrial, says in the movie, “Love your planet!’ Home is where we come from, our Source. In physics, they talk about the initial singularity which was a gravitational singularity of infinite density thought to have contained all of the mass and space-time of the Universe before quantum fluctuations caused it to rapidly expand in the Big Bang of creation. Words like ‘singularity’ and ‘infinity’ denote God… Spirit! “We are all ‘Spirits in bodies;’ sibs! We are not a body with a spirit; but God in bodies. And when we wake up to this Consciousness will we experience “The Kingdom Within.” In this C onsci ousness, w e are home. And the primal sound of creation is ‘Om’ (Romanized as A-U-M). It is the sound that reminds us of where we come from and where we return; our God-source, our Creator. The sound, Om, is universal and is the root of “Amen” found in religions of Christianity and Judaism; and of “Amin” as found in the Islamic faith. It brings to mind what St. John in his Gospel says in the very first verse, “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God…” I am delighted that the sound and letters of “Om” are embedded in the word, ‘home.’ For we truly are home only when we live in God Consciousness with an open heart; and share our love and caring with others, and our Earth. Dr. Rickie Camara is a BoardCertified psychiatrist and Bikram Yoga teacher. He teaches yoga classes at Hotyoga8 in Kaimuki. He has a yoga-aligned health coaching and counseling practice in Kahala. You can hear him every Friday on the radio at KNDI between 8 and 8:30 a.m. on the Medical Forum with Flor Martinez. Email contact at rickiec @pixi.com.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 21
STATEWIDE community CALENDAR Compiled by Amelia Casamina Cabatu
OAHU April 2-16, 2016 Filipino Film Festival 2016 Honolulu Museum of Art. 900 South Beretania Street. Films will be shown at the Doris Duke Theatre. This year’s Filipino Film Festival showcases the Philippines’ rich, diverse cinema, revealing a vibrant culture. Come and see films that explore life—from the joys of first love to the triumph over grief in the face of tragedy. Community partners, The Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of HI (PCCCH), the Filipino Community Center of Hawaii (FilCom), the Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii, the Filipino Association of University Women (FAUW), the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC), Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH), and the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii (PMAH). Hospitality sponsor: Outrigger Resorts. Tickets: $10 | $8 museum members. April 2, 2016 Filipino Film Festival Opening night reception; 6-7:30pm; Honolulu Museum of Art Ticket includes dinner with a no-host bar. Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo screens at 7:30pm. $35 | $30 museum members. For more information visit the website: honoluluacademy.org April 2, 2016 ONE Filipino Speak up. Be Heard. VOTE! Public Forum; Presented by the FILCOM, COVO, OFCC & UFCH community organizations. Filipino Community Center 94-428 Mokuola St. Waipahu HI; 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Join fellow kababayans for a day of education, fellowship and FREE food! Fill out an information card for a chance to win a ROUND TRIP Ticket to the Philippines courtesy of Philippine Airlines. Get to know your Community Center, Let your voice be heard, Meet your elected representatives. Contact Persons: FilCom Center: 680-0451, May Mizuno 741-4503, Alex Vergara 551-4303, Maria Etrata 3922962 April 2, 2106 AARP Hawaii & Wilson Care Group presents FREE Annual Caregiver’s Conference Caring for Family, Caring for Yourself. Honolulu Japanese Cultural Center 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM Register: http://aarp.cvent. com/care4-2 or call 1-877-9268300; Keynote Speaker: Caring for the Caregiver Emme Tomimbang April 3, 2016 Incat Alumni Association of Hawaii 17th Anniversary, Installation of Officers & Service Awards Ceremony, Empress Restaurant 100 N. Beretania Street, Chinatown; 6:00 PM Contact Person: Augustine Longboy 294-1446 April 7, 2016 Filipino Junior Chamber General Membership Meeting Bar 35 Ultra Lounge Room 35 North Hotel St. Honolulu, HI; 6:00 PM; Contact
Person: Secretary Cynthia at cynthia.cuestas@fjchamber.org April 9,2016 FAUW (Filipino Association of University Women). An evening with Philippine National Artist, Nick Joaquin at the Filipino Film Festival, Honolulu Museum of Art, 900 South Beretania Street. Honolulu HI; 4:00PM Portrait of the Artist as a Filipino, 5:30 PM FAUW Reception; 6:30 PM Dahling Nick- docudrama explores his life & works. Film price $10 general and $8 for museum members. Tickets available at the door. Contact Person: Cecile Yasay 741-5787 or email cjyasay2@ gmail.com April 16, 2016 74th Commemoration of Araw Ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor); Presented by the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu in coordination with the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH); 2:00 PM-4:00 PM; National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Punchbowl, Honolulu. RSVP required to email: pcghonolulu. culturalsection@gmail .com or call 595-6316 extension 112 by April 7, 2016. April 16, 2016 Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Young Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year Award & Scholarship Awards Banquet presented by the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom 6:00 PM; Cost $65.00; Attire: Formal/ Business Suit. Currently accepting nominations for entrepreneur of the year Statewide For more information please Contact: Rocky Anguay Event Chair 808 387-5821 or email Ranguay@fhb.com, Sam Acosta President 808 306-1428 April 28-May 6, 2016 Our Lady of Manaoag-Hawaii Devotees 11th Annual Feast of Our Lady of Manaoag Nightly Novena at the Holy Family Catholic Church 830 Main Street Honolulu HI; 7:00 PM; Contact Persons: Cely Querido 3686052 or email celyq@savio.com, Fred Martinez 358-8049 or email fmar10nez @yahoo.com April 30, 2016 Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club (HFWC) Annual Terno Ball; Hawaii Prince Hotel Ballroom 6:00 PM. An evening of Awards, Fashion & Culture featuring Scholarships & Outstanding Women Achiever Awards. Selection of Ms. Terno & Mr. Barong Costume Contest. Contact Persons: Nelly Pongco Liu 228-7808, Carlota Ader 797-4381, Vilma Valdez 321-3186 May 7, 2016 United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH) Mrs. Hawaii Filipina 2016 Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom; 5:30 PM; Contact Persons: Gladys Menor (808) 366-2317, Maria Etrata (808) 392-2962 May 7, 2016 11th Annual Feast of Our Lady of Manaoag Holy Family Catholic
Church 830 Main Street Honolulu, HI 96818 9:00AM-3:00 PM; Contact Persons: Cely Querido 3686052 or email celyq@savio.com, Fred Martinez 358-8049 or email fmar10nez@yahoo.com May 14, 2016 Philippine Nurses Association of Hawaii (PNAH) Installation of 20162018 Officers Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom; 6:00 PM-12:00 AM; Contact Persons: Ramon Sumibcay 489-7148, Erlinda Ferrer 721-1501, Tina Salvador 426-6183 May 14, 2016 24th Annual Filipino Fiesta & Parade and 4th Annual Flores de Mayo presented by the FilCom Center, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue. Parade route goes from Fort DeRussy to Kalakaua Avenue to end at Kapiolani Park from 9:00 AM-10:00 AM. Fiesta will be at the Kapiolani Park from 10:00AM-5:00 PM. For more details, sponsorship, and how to participate please call Arceli Rebollido, FilCom Center Programs Director at 808 680-0451, Paul Gaerlan Alimbuyao Flores de Mayo Event Chair 808 754-8691, Vince Baldemor 808 391-0723. You can also check FilCom Center website at http://filcom.org/ May 14, 2016 United Pangasinan Of Hawaii (UPH) 48th Anniversary Dinner & Dance Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom; 6:00 PM; Tickets and Information call Contact Persons: Cely Villareal 778-2481 or 689-4911, Fred Martinez 358-8049 or email fmar10nez@yahoo.com May 28, 2016 Ms. Normalites of Hawaii 3rd Grand Alumni Reunion & Coronation Ball (LNS, INNS, NLTC, MMSU-CE, MMSU-CTE). Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom; 6:00 PM-12:00 AM; Contact Persons: Thelma Ortal 389-1847, Pike Velasco 554-9646, Florence Peralta 650 274-7791, Dolly Ortal 225-9997 June 18, 2016 Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) Presents the Miss Oahu Filipina 2016 Pageant. Hawaii Prince Hotel; 6:00PM; Contact Persons: Alex Vergara President 551-4303, Leo Gozar 630-6268 June 25, 2016 Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) Annual Convention Philippine Consulate General of Honolulu Lanai Contact Persons: Alex Vergara President 551-4303, Dwayne Bueno 266-0392 July 16, 2016 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii and Foundation Annual Installation Banquet Hilton Hawaiian Village Resorts, Tapa Ballroom; 6:00 PM; Contact Persons Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Sam Acosta 306-1428. July 16, 2016 Mr. Pinoy Hawaii USA 2016 presented by Kalayaan Philippines International, Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom; 5:00PM-11:30 PM;
Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a community leader and a familiar face, often hosting community events and celebrations. She is a veteran radio announcer and guests-hosts on 1270 KNDI Radio. In addition to other affiliations, Amelia is the former Chair of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii. She owns and operates an adult daycare business and is happily married to Arnold Cabatu. They live in Salt Lake and are blessed with one daughter, Armay. Please send your event information to acmina808@gmail.com or call her at (808) 282-2033.
Contact Persons: Calvin Bagaoisan (Interim President) 286-4334, Ben Pulido (Executive and Program Director) 421-9747 July 16, 2016 Santanians Association of Hawaii-USA Installation of Officers & Board of Directors Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom; 6:00 PM-11:00 PM; Contact Persons: Dr. Julius Soria 722-9958, Amy Quides 2556380, Aurora Garcia 722-3150 or email santanian sofhiusa@gmail. com July 20-24, 2016 37th Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) National Convention Grand Hyatt Hotel, Washington DC; PNA Hawaii Contact Persons: Tina Salvador 426-6183, Ramon Sumibcay 489-7148, Erlinda Ferrer 721-1501 July 30, 2016 La Union Circle of Hawaii presents Miss & Mrs. La Union Hawaii USA 2016. Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom; 5:30 PM; Coronation with Dinner. Cost $65.00; Contact Persons: Baybee Hufana Ablan 753-5616; Laurie Ann Tadina 3580474; Conrad Valdriz 953-8888; Ben Pulido 421-9747; Lolita Domingo 295-1387 August 13, 2016 Philippine Women’s Civic Club (PWCC) Filipiniana Ball; Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom; 6:00 PM; Cost: $65.00 Suggested attire: Maria Clara, Kimona, Terno or Muslim. Join the contest for the Best Filipiniana Costume. Contact Persons: Letty Saban 255-9429, Edna Alikpala 282-3669. Mimi Gozar 312-0778, Edith Gudoy 457-0253 August 20, 2016 UPAA University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Hawaii Installation of Officers Gala; 6:00 PM; Filcom Center; 94-428 Mokuola Street, Waipahu, Hi Contact Persons: Bea Ramos-Razon 808 778-6291, Melody Calisay 808 224-9535, Jenny Normandy 808 286-4426 August 27, 2016 Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Recognition Night honoring the 2016 Parents/parent of the year, recognizing the 2016 outstanding achievements of graduating high school valedictorians in public and private schools & presentation of the continuing scholar recipients, Empress Restaurant 100 N. Beretania St. 6:00 PM. We are currently searching for the parents/parent of the year who has sacrificed to send their children (3 minimum) to college and/or universities & have attained their professional chosen careers. Contact Persons: Janice Sevilla 595-8000, Lina Longboy 421-7381, Leo Rojas Gozar 630-6268, Edith Gudoy 841-2881, Maggie Domingo 783-0068 September 17, 2016 Filipino Women’s Civic Club Annual
Maria Clara Ball; Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom 6:00 PM. Join the Maria Clara Contest Contact Persons: Bernadette Fajardo, President 342-8090, Cecilia Villafuerte 780-4985 November 19, 2016 NAMI, INC. Nursing Advocates & Mentors, Inc.; 15th Anniversary Gala and Appreciation of RN Review Class Volunteer Lecturers & Recognition of New RN’s and Review Graduates. 6:00 PM Banyan Tree Showroom, Hale Koa Hotel Contact Persons: Bea Ramos-Razon 808 778-6291, Jun Obaldo 808 277-7495, Bong Curameng 808 383-0135
MAUI April 23, 2016 The Maui Filipino Chamber Foundation Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament The Dunes at Maui Lani. Shot gun start at 7:00 AM, Now accepting teams and sponsors. For more information and application form go to www. mauifilipinochamber.com/golftournament June 16, 2016 Gintong Pamana Leadership and Scholarship Awards; Maui Beach Hotel; 5:30 PM; Cost: $50.00 If you renew your membership or become a member of the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce by May 15, 2016, they will include you in this year’s membership directory. Contact Person Kit Zulueta, President (808) 291-9407 or email: info@ mauifilipino chamber.com and visit their website:www.mauifilipinochamber .com July 29-31, 2016 United Filipino Council Of Hawaii (UFCH) Annual Convention to be held in Maui. Place & Time TBD. Contact Persons: Greg Peros in Maui (808) 276-8771; Dwayne Bueno in Oahu (808) 266-0392 July 30, 2016 United Filipino Council Of Hawaii (UFCH) Miss Hawaii Filipina 2016 Binhi At Ani Community Center in Maui. Contact Persons: Greg Peros (808) 276-8771, Maria Etrata (808) 392-2962 October 15, 2016 Maui Fil-Am Heritage Festival presented by the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce Foundation Maui Mall in Kahalui, Maui; 10:00 AM3:00 PM; Flag raising ceremony at the county building on October 3rd at 10:00 AM. For more information contact Kit Zulueta, President (808) 291-9407 or email: info@mauifilipinochamber.com and visit their website:www. mauifilipinochamber.com
kauai April 30, 2016 Kauai Philippine Cultural Center (KPCC) 5th Major Fundraising Event 5:30 PM Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club, Grand Ballroom in Lihue, Kauai Contact Number: (808) 645-0257 or email: Kpcc2020@ gmail.com
PAGE 22 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016
CLASSIFIED ADS HELP WANTED JANITOR: Pay $8.50$10.00/hr 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.
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LITE INDUSTRIAL/ LABORERS - Warehouse - Driver Helper - Production Line - Food Prep/Dishwashers Pay $8.50 - $9.50/hr 6 mos of recent work experience needed. For interviews call our Ala Moana office 945-9300, Staffing Partners.
House For Rent 3 Bedroom Available November 1
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THE FIL-AM COURIER • APRIL 1-15, 2016 • PAGE 23
For Advertising information please call 595.8787