PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014
THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014 • PAGE 3
Bennette Espineli Misalucha
serving The community since 1987
MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICES
Publisher Mary Llanos Cordero Managing Editor Bennette Espineli Misalucha Director of Design Armand Busmente Production Manager Alice Llanos Busmente Assistant Editors Paola Rodelas 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 Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao ZenyMuyot Angie Santiago Perfecto Yasay Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim Randy Cortez Radiant Cordero Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus Brandon dela Cruz Christian Evangelista Imelda Gasmen Veronika Geronimo Leo Gozar Ben Gutierrez Carmela Minaya Gladys QuintoMarrone 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
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Hamburger with French fries? Tossed green salad with Tofu? Sleep early or watch reruns of “The Good Wife”? We are confronted with many choices in any given day. Those choices are often innocuous and may not have any long term consequences. We make these decisions in a split second, and we often do not even give it a second thought. We move on with our lives at such a fast pace that we do not have the time nor the inclination to review whether those choices were indeed the right ones. Of course, there are decisions that are more monumental and life-changing. Who to marry? Where to live? Decisions on first careers, or even switching careers or changing jobs, for that matter. These are decisions that require a little more thought. We spend some time analyzing and evaluating the pros and cons. We seek expert opinions. We ask people who know us best. We look at our past history. And based on the information we generate, we then make the decision. In many instances, we may go back to that decision even after it was made. We lose sleep thinking about it. We review in our minds the possible consequences. And as we live our lives, we constantly assess whether the decision was indeed the right one. Is there a best way to make a decision? Based on a book by Barry Schwartz (The Paradox of Choice), the subscribed process is as follows: a) First, decide on your goal. Defining the goal is often the most difficult part. We need to make sure that our goal is clear and not laded with other irrelevant issues.
b) Second, determine how important this is to you. In many instances, the path to achieving goals are filled with other consequences. Are you prepared to accept them? c) List the options and examine all of them carefully. List all of the options, even the ridiculous ones. Our mind needs to go through this valuable exercise in order to come up with the more viable solutions. This step takes time. Do not rush into it. The insights may come when the brain is not necessarily “thinking”. d) Prioritize each options according to the likelihood of each option meeting your goal It is amazing how wonderful our brains are. It will filter the ridiculous and allow us the wherewithal to make the correct assessments. e) Choose the option with the highest likelihood of meeting the goal. By this time, if we had done the process correctly, the choice will be clear. f) As you implement the option, observe the outcome of this experience. Adjust your future goals and the way you make future decisions. Decisions are not made in a vacuum and its implementation may need a little tweaking. Be flexible and learn from your experiences.
We share this strategy in
view of the primary elections which is coming upon us very shortly. We will be asked to exercise our right to vote and to make choices on individuals who will represent us in various levels of government. Are these decisions as mind-less to us as the choices of what to eat for lunch? Do we take a minute to use the process mentioned above to vet the candidates? There are a few important offices that are up for grabs. From the Us Senate seat to the Governor, to the First Congressional District, to the State Legislature seats, these positions of power will have a significant impact on our lives and to the community we live in. Let’s see how that process may be translated politically, based on the stand-point of the Filipino-American community in Hawaii: a) First, decide on your goal. Isn’t our end goal (beyond the Political season 2014) to have a strong and vibrant Filipino community? Towards this end, we need political leaders who will listen to our community and who will translate these challenges into solutions.
c) List the options and examine all of them carefully. So, let’s list the politicians and examine their track record. For those who have no track record to speak of, take note of their background. What have they done to garner our trust and confidence that they will do right? d) Prioritize each options according to the likelihood of each option meeting your goal Based on this analysis, list the candidates based on how helpful they may be in assisting our Filipino community achieve our goals? For those currently in office: have they demonstrated the desire to get to know our community? Have they taken the time to listen to our concerns? Have they been responsive in solving the issues of the day? For those not currently in office: have they shown that they are ready, willing and able to engage with our community? e) Choose the option with the highest likelihood of meeting the goal. As you go through this exercise, we hope that your choice of candidates will become clear.
b) Second, determine how important this is to you. From all indications, this goal is very real to all of us. The many organizations in f) As you implement the option, observe the our community — from the outcome of this experience. Filipino Community Center, Adjust your future goals to the Filipino Chamber of and the way you make Commerce of Hawaii, to the future decisions. United Filipino Council— exist to further the goal of improving the lot of Let’s continue to monitor the way our political leaders Filipinos in Hawaii. serve us. Po l i t i c a l d e c i s i o n s a r e important to all of us. We cannot complain if we do not get involved. Make your vote count. Let’s make sure we give our political decisions a more cursory attention than just ordering French fries at McDonald’s. But since we are on the subject of making choices: yes, I want ketchup on mine.
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014
Our cover....
WHY I CHOSE TO SUPPORT MY CANDIDATE NEIL ABERCROMBIE
Candidate for Governor, State of Hawaii Mahalo to
Jeff Orig of OrigMedia. (www.OrigMedia.com). Photo concept by Noah Felipe of OrigMedia.
By Dr. Amy Agbayani
My father, Adeudato J. Agbayani (born in Vintar) and my mother, Remedios Macarans (born in Malasiqui) met as students at the University of the Philippines (UP) and supported my education at UP. After I graduated from UP, I applied for and received a scholarship from the East West Center to do graduate work in Political Science at the University of Hawaii (UH). My lifelong friendship with Neil Abercrombie started nearly fifty years ago when we were graduate students
at UH. Forty years ago, when Neil was a freshmen legislator, I introduced him to his wife, Dr. Nancie Caraway, who was an adult student returning to finish her undergraduate degree. In all the years that I have known him, both in his private and public life, I’ve seen him consistently manifest his true nature as a humane, kind, and compassionate person and leader. He fought hard for the most powerless, voiceless, and under privileged communities,
and became a strong voice for civil rights and social justice for struggling working families, including immigrants and minorities marginalized by poverty and lack of language access. I can say without reservation that Governor Neil Abercrombie has always been a friend of the Filipino community. He understands our hopes and dreams to build a better and fulfilling life and provide our children the opportunity to succeed by finishing college. Governor Abercrombie
THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014 • PAGE 5
WHY I CHOSE TO SUPPORT MY CANDIDATE is a strong and long time advocate for educating Filipino students. Forty years ago when he was a freshman legislator and I was Director of Operation Manong, a tutorial program for newly arrived immigrant students, he saved our program from budget cuts at the University of Hawaii. Throughout his public life, he has fought hard for bilingual education, early learning, programs to recruit Filipinos and other underrepresented students, to provide opportunities for financial assistance for under-represented students to complete college. Of the major groups in Hawaii, the Filipino community has the lowest percentage of college graduates. Only 10% of the undergraduate students at the University of Hawaii at Manoa are Filipino compared to 20% public school students, When care home operators (over 85% are Filipinos) were fighting for just and better compensation, then Senator Abercrombie worked closely with Filipino community leaders and other legislators to address their concerns. As a result, payments for care home services were increased to a decent level and care home operators gained institutional respect for the work they do as round-the-clock caregivers. When Filipino veterans sought U.S. citizenship, family reunification, medical and military benefits for their military service in World War II in the Philippines, then US Congressman Abercrombie stood behind them and stood side by side with other congressional leaders on Capitol Hill to fight for legislative action to make life better for them. When Filipino immigrants experienced the emotional hardship of being separated from their loved ones left in the Philippines due to immigration restrictions,
then Congressman Abercrombie made his congressional office very accessible for many Filipinos w h o a s ke d f o r h e l p i n bringing their families to Hawaii. Paul Alimbuyao, who is now a Vice President at First Hawaiian Bank, was one of those who shared his story recently that Governor Abercrombie assisted him in expediting the arrival of his wife. When Governor Abercrombie took office in 2010, his first initiative was to put the State finances in order. From a $200 million deficit left behind by the Lingle administration, he has turned it into an $800 million surplus. In 2014, Hawaii’s unemployment rate is among the lowest in the nation. When Governor Abercrombie took office in 2010, he directed Mila Medallon-Kaahanui, Executive Director of the Office of Community Services, to create new programs to help newly arrived immigrants navigate their way around the system of services, help them get started, find opportunities for job training and jobs, and help them succeed in Hawaii. Late last year, Governor Abercrombie officially opened four state-funded Immigrant Resource Centers located across the State. Because of the Governor’s inspired leadership, the Office of Community Services has also established subsidized job training programs for immigrants and low-income persons. When the Filipino Community Center needed a photovoltaic roof to reduce energy consumption, Governor Abercrombie released $450,000 to enable the center to purchase and install the roof, and it has resulted in a huge savings for the center in energy costs. When Filipino leaders on Kauai began
their quest for a Philippine Cultural Center of their own, Governor Abercrombie released $1.5 million to begin construction. When the State Legislature passed Act 248, Domestic Workers Law, in 2013, Governor Neil Abercrombie and his wife, Dr. Nancie Caraway, quickly convened a working group to organize a public education campaign to raise public awareness about the legal rights of domestic workers, who are mostly from the Philippines. As a result, there are now Domestic Workers Have Rights informational brochures, cards, and ads in 530 buses. Governor Abercrombie holds Filipinos with great affection and high r e g a r d . H e r e g u l a r l y participates in the annual Filipino Community Center
fiesta and attends Filipino community events to honor student scholars, install officers, and support relief efforts for tyhoons and other emergencies in the Philippines. He respects our cultural heritage and acknowledges the talents of the old and new generation of Filipinos by appointing a great number of them in top state positions, including boards and commissions. A sample of these appointments are: Fred Pablo (director Tax dept), Jade Butay (deputy Labor and Industrial Relations), Luis Salaveria (deputy Budget), Jeffrey Acido (UH Board of Regents), Charlene Cuaresma (Board of Education), Joey Alcantara (contractor ’s board), ArtemioBaxa and Raymund Liongson (Hawaii Civil Rights Commission),
E va Re p o l l o Wa s h b u r n (Culture and Arts), Camille Lim (Status of Women), Abby Madrid Shaw (Victim Compensation). In closing, I would like to thank Governor Abercrombie and his wife Dr. Nancie Caraway, not only for their personal friendship over the decades but for their advocacy and support of the Filipino community in Hawaii. Governor Abercrombie has been a true and longtime friend of the Filipino community. He is a leader with a welcoming heart for many more generations of Filipinos to come.
Dr. Amy Agbayani is the director of Student Equity, Excellence and Diversity at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014
WHY I CHOSE TO SUPPORT MY CANDIDATE COLLEEN HANABUSA Candidate for U.S. Senate By BEN CAYETANO
THE Filipino-American community has become the largest ethnic group in Hawaii and the next largest in the entire population of our great state. It’s time our community asserted itself by putting the right candidates in
public office who embody our ideals and values and will represent us with compassion, pride and dignity in the U.S. Senate. U. S. Re p r e s e n t a t i ve Colleen Hanabusa is one such candidate with exceptional qualifications. We should all vote for her in the upcoming Primary election on August 9. As one who has received your unqualified support in the past during more than 30 years of public service, I can reassure you that Colleen is most worthy and deserving of your support. I have known her all these years as an exemplary public servant in honesty, integrity, intelligence, hard work, and especially the experience and expertise as a Legislator. She has emerged as one of new leaders in Congress who has accomplished so much in the short time that she has been there. As I have often said in my endorsements of her candidacy and I will say it again with even more conviction, Colleen’s record is truly REMARKABLE . In fact, when you look at the records, THERE IS REALLY NO COMPARISON! Though we had our policy differences in the past, I have the utmost respect for her integrity and leadership, which have been proven time and again in the public arena. She became the first woman of Asian ancestry to be elected Senate President not only in Hawaii but in the whole United States. We should all be proud of that! As a labor attorney for more than two decades before entering politics, Colleen worked endlessly for the welfare of working families and for minority rights for both men and
women. Her clients were mostly hotel workers, working mothers, security guards, immigrants, social service personnel, and other disadvantaged groups in Hawaii’s multiethnic community. All this compassion she has shown comes from her roots. She grew up behind her family’s gas s t a t i o n i n Wa i a n a e , where she developed all these homespun values o f f r u g a l i t y, h o n e s t y, integrity and hard work. As we say with admiration and pride, she has really come a long way! Coming from a similar background myself growing up in Kalihi with immigrant roots from the province of Pangasinan, I can attest to the fact that these are the very fundamental values that prepare us for anything we want to be later in life.
Colleen possesses all these values that we can really identify with. She is one of us!
THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT! BOTOSAN TAYO NI COLLEEN HANABUSA PARA SENADOR ITI AMERIKA INTONO AGOSTO 9. IBOTO NATIN SI COLLEEN HANABUSA PARA SENADOR ITI AMERIKA SA AGOSTO 9! SAAN YO NGA LIPLIPATAN! HUWAG NINYONG KALIMUTAN!
Ben Cayetano was the fifth Governor of the State of Hawaii and served from 1994 to 2002.
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WHY I CHOSE TO SUPPORT MY CANDIDATE David Ige
Candidate for Governor, State of Hawaii By Florencio Ribucan
I was born in the Philippines and came to Hawaii with my parents at the age of 3 in 1926. Both labored for the sugar plantation, worked hard to provide for the family and to make sure that I and my siblings were educated and become responsible citizens. I became a US c i t i ze n f o l l o w i n g d u ty during World War II in the Philippines with the US Army. Following the war, I came home to a Hawaii where workers were fighting for the right to strike, for the right to earn a decent living. Were it not for the Democratic Party and its support for labor, what everyone is enjoying today would not be possible. The party was made up of people that cared, people that lived the immigrants’ life under the plantation bosses, and people who lived and understood hard work and sacrifices. In this race for the governorship, it was heartfelt
to know that there is one candidate that identifies all that we stand for and that is with hard work and careful spending, our retirement, our children’s jobs and the educational future of our grandchildren will be secured. I speak of David Ige whose grandparents were immigrants like me and so can identify what we are about. He knows and will protect what we have; he does not believe in taxing just to spend; he does not believe in taxing our pensions that we worked so hard for. What he believes in is a strong government that protects the jobs of everyone not for just a few. What he believes in is financial responsibility that will keep our state healthy and out of debt. As a 91 year old former immigrant who fought for our country in WorldWar II in the Philippines, a retiree of the plantation I have seen governors come and go. Like Governor Cayetano a n d G o ve r n o r A r i yo s h i
both children of immigrant ancestry, I care about the grandchildren and I want them to live in a Hawaii that will provide them with economic opportunities and well paying jobs which I believe that David Ige is the answer for them for the future.
Florencio Ribucan is a resident of Hamakuapoko, Paia.
PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014
WHY I CHOSE TO SUPPORT MY CANDIDATE BRIAN SCHATZ Candidate for U.S. Senate By ROLAND CASAMINA
When I immigrated to Hawaii from the Philippines, I came with nothing but my family, and my dreams. In those first few years in my new home of Hawaii, I worked to turn those dreams into reality. While simultaneously waiting on tables to support my family, and earning a business degree from the University of Hawaii, I focused on my goals and eventually started my o w n b u s i n e s s : T h e House of Finance. It took hard work, perseverance, and very importantly, the
support of the Filipino community. I was fortunate enough to achieve the American Dream. Today, it’s becoming harder and harder for families to make it, and to “live the American Dream”. Now, more than e ve r, w e n e e d l e a d e r s w h o s h a r e o u r va l u e s , understand the challenges we face, and will represent the Filipino community with powerful voices. That is why I’m supporting my friend, Senator Brian Schatz, to continue serving in the U.S. Senate. Like so many in our community, I came to Hawaii to find new opportunities and build a better life for
me and my family. But we need to make sure those opportunities still exist for future generations. Senator Schatz has been effective in getting things
done for Hawaii, and fighting for us in the U.S. Senate. He is working to make sure that others like me can live the American Dream. With hard work and the right support, anyone can succeed. Senator Schatz has been working to grow our local economy and create new good-paying jobs. He is the only first-term senator to chair two subcommittees and both are vital to Hawaii’s economy: Tourism and Water and Power. As the leader of the Senate’s Tourism panel, Senator Schatz is working to expand our visitor industry and the thousands of small businesses and jobs it supports across the state. And as the Chair of the Subcommittee on Water and Power he is working to advance clean energy and make Hawaii more sustainable. Through these chairmanships, Senator Schatz is uniquely positioned to help Hawaii and make sure our children continue to have opportunities through good-paying local jobs. While many leaders talk about engaging with the Filipino community, Brian has actually done it. He has taken the time to listen to our needs, and has taken our voices to the U.S. senate, ensuring that we have been heard. In the year and a half since
Senator Schatz has been in the Senate, he has showed real leadership for everyone in Hawaii, from his efforts to strengthening Social Security and Medicare, to making college more affordable. Schatz has supported local jobs and increased federal funding for transit and social programs. He has made it a priority to finally give Filipino Veterans the benefits they deserve. Brian Schatz has been able to accomplish so much in just 18 months, but his job isn’t done yet. In the years to come, he will continue to deliver for us, for the Filipino community, for the state of Hawaii. Senator Schatz understands our struggles perfectly because he lives just like many of us do here in Hawaii: in a multigenerational household. Brian Schatz shares a happy home with his wife, Linda, their two beautiful children, Tyler and Mia, and Linda’s parents. Brian Schatz is working to support everyday families like his, like yours, and like mine.
Roland Casamina is the President of House of Finance and President Emeritus of the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014 • PAGE 9
Born in the Philippines, Virgie Cruzada has lived on the island of Kauai since 1972. A mother of three adult children, she is a resident of Hanamaulu with her husband, Bobby. She is a retired teacher who devotes a lot of time helping the community, including serving as president of the Kauai Visayan club and Vice-President of the Congress of Visayan Organizations.
PROFILE:
EDUCATION ADVOCATE
LIGAYA ORTAL training needed and that she was always open to new learning experiences. She demonstrated that she reflected the values of professionalism, willingness to work with others, good communication skills, humility, and honesty. Ligaya has since retired as Resource Teacher for the English Language Learners (ELL) Program from the Department of Education. She however, still recalls that the great motivation to put forth
Ilocos Norte, located in the northern region of the Philippine Islands, was where educator LigayaOrtal first saw light. She is the eldest of three sisters and four brothers. She first set foot on the Hawaiian Islands in July of 1971 and has since made Kaua‘i her home. She claims it is here where she has since found happiness and contentment. She is happily married to Rey for 43 years with two grown-up children (Melinda and Paul Ray). Growing up in a large family posed many challenges. But fortunately, their extended family on the maternal side was very supportive and strongly encouraged the siblings to get an education regardless of the challenges that might have come their way. Her aunts and uncles greatly influenced her desire to achieve and work hard in life. Reading is Ligaya’s favorite past-time activity. Ligaya, as she is intimately called by family and close friends, still proudly claims that teaching was her first love – one that she realized in the first grade.
Ligaya admits it was only natural for her to end up as a teacher because she comes from a family of educators. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education from the Araneta University Foundation, Philippines, and later, a two-year Liberal Arts degree from Kaua‘i Community College. She finished her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Heritage University, Toppenish, Washington. Over the years of her tenure with the Hawai‘i State Department of Education, she enrolled at the University of Hawaii College of Continuing Education taking up courses in counseling, English as a Second Language, Multi-cultural Education and Classroom Strategies, as well as Management. The passion for the teaching profession never leftLigaya. It fueled her dreams, ambitions, and determination. When she first arrived as an immigrant, Ligaya recalls she faced obstacles as she found it difficult to prove she was qualified professional. She proactively sought opportunities to prove she possessed the skills and the
her best effort--- especially where the program was concerned-- was her desire to help the students, parents, and the teachers succeed in their lives. She always ensured that students’ academic needs were met, assuring them the support system was available, and she helped facilitate the successfully transition of ELI students, their parents and the teachers into the new school system. These days, Ligaya fills
her time volunteering for her church which she finds enjoyable and uplifting. Every day she feels blessed and grateful for having the time in the world to travel, do gardening and play grandmother to her three grandchildren. But do not let her fool you. As far as Ligaya is concerned, even in retirement, when it comes to students and parents, she will always remain their education advocate.
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THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014 • PAGE 11
By Daniel B. Eisen, PhD Pacific University and Leighton Vila
When asked what is positive about being Filipino many Filipino youth’s first response is “the food.” Food has the potential to build community and connect individuals to their Filipino heritage. Conversations about events (e.g. Weddings, Graduations, etc.) center on food, as the home cooked or catered meals served in those familiar aluminum trays are what draw many individuals to “Filipino parties.” For those living away from home, especially on the continental United States, many phone calls home begin with a request for a recipe thatharkens us back to the comfort of home and the “Filipino parties” we remember from childhood. Although Filipino food can conjure feelings of acceptance, comfort, and belonging, societal conception of Filipino food as “weird” can create a sense of unease in being Filipino. A review of essays written by students who identify as Filipino demonstrated that their attempts to fit in with friends, classmates, and acquaintances led many to develop a distaste for Filipino food. One student wrote that she “never mention[ed] my grandma’s kankanen and lumpia when everyone else was eating sushi, ramen, and mochi.” Being asked “why do Filipinos eat rotten fish?” or to remove ones “stinky fish sauce” from the community refrigerator can lead some to feel like an outcast. “The fear of not belonging and being placed with the minority… [leads many] to stray away from Filipino dishes,” especially with youth that begin to “ignore their own culture” or ask their parents why they do not “eat normal food.” Besides Filipino homes, the plethora of Filipino restaurants in Hawaii provides many safe havens for enjoying Filipino food. In these spaces, one can feel accepted and connected to their Filipino heritage, as they consume pancit, pinapaitan, diniguan, adobo, guisantes, and other foods that draw one closer to Filipino culture. Although some would argue that certain foods differentiate “true Filipinos” from “Americanized Filipinos,” it is arguable that any food that begins ones adventure into Filipino culture is noteworthy. Creating more safe havens to consume Filipino cuisine throughout our society can help alter the perception of Filipino food, transforming it from weird to delectable. Immigration Scholar Marcus Lee Hansen wrote, “what the first generation wishes to forget, the third generation wishes to remember.” Communities should
strive to break this cycle of forgetting and rediscovering, as it often results in losing cultural knowledge. Cultural lessons in food may be one of the most tangible lessons (as they involve taste, smell, sight, and texture) available. And at a time when Filipino
food is being praised on internet sites and individuals who identify as Filipino are on television shows like Top Chef, this is an opportune time to engage the youth in these lessons, as consuming Filipino food is characterized as “cool.” Therefore, engage the youth in learning to “cook Filipino.”
While they may bemoan cleaning beans now, the knowledge of their cultural heritage and the memories of the smells of garlic, patis, and ginger filling the kitchen will serve them well for years to come.
Dr. Daniel Eisengrew 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 • AUGUST 1-15, 2014
By Nancy Bernal
The Annual Celebrities and Their Pets Fashion Show is happening at The Hawaii Woman Expo on September 6 and 7 at 12:30 p.m. at The Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Celebrities in the entertainment industry, VIPs in the business community
Angeli Callo
Amado Cacho
and Celebrity Dogs will walk the runway for a great cause: bringing awareness to pet adoption at the Oahu SPCA. And the twist is that the animals will be wearing Couture fashions from The Pet Corner at Ward Warehouse, not the people.
Jordan Segundo with the Miss Maui Filipina Contestants at The Pageant
Jordan Segundo and Paul Gaerlan Alimbuyao
Bring the whole family to this wonderful event and meet the stars! Jordan Segundo will perform and Al Waterson will emcee. Puppies from the Oahu SPCA will be available for adoption. For more information, call 947-5736. ••••• World renown singer Charice - came to Honolulu for a concert on July 12 at The Hawaii Convention Center and she impressed the audience with her dynamic performance. While in Hawaii, Charice performed on television shows, did radio interviews and also did a visitation to Shriner’s Hospital to
sing for the sick children. Also featured in Charice’s concert were a very talented sister and brother duo Cheesa and Troy Laureta. Originally from Hawaii, Troy is Charice’s Musical Director and Cheesa is a professional singer that was a Finalist on “The Voice”. They were a highlight in the concert with their strong performance. The combination of these three artists created an excellent concert. ••••• There is a new show in Waikiki called “CabaRAE” that features a variety of incredible acts from around the world. This show is a sneak-peak preview that is scheduled at The Tapa Ballroom of The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort on Thursdays thru Sundays at 8 p.m. til the end of August. The future home of CabaRAE will be a spectacular showroom that is being completed at the bottom level of The Tapa Tower later this year. In the preview, the international cast showcases stunning aerial artisty, daredevil feats of strength, interactive comedy and entertainment at its finest in an intimate setting. You really have to see this show to understand how incredibly-talented these artists are. Absolutely amazing! For ticket information, go to www. CabaRAE.com
Allysa Roberts with her dog - Basil
••••• Congratulations to the new President of The Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii for 2014 - 2015 - Paul Gaerlan Alimbuyao and the Officers and Directors. The Installation Banquet held on July 5 at The Hilton Hawaiian V i l l a g e C o ra l B a l l r o o m featured entertainers Jordan Segundo, Sharon Zalsos and Misty Kela’I. Best wishes for much success in the coming year. ••••• Congratulations to Yvienne Peterson - Pageant Director for the Miss Maui Filipina Pageant on producing this special event on June 28 at the HP Baldwin Auditorium on Maui. The Contestant that was crowned and awarded the title of Miss Maui Filipina is Hulali Mai Kalani Asuncion Brown. First Princess is Jessie Lyn Sagadraca and Second Princess is Erinn Leigh AquilizanBaysa. Jordan Segundo serenaded the lovely ladies onstage and entertained the audience with several songs. These beautiful girls have a very exciting year ahead of them! • • • • • The Music and Arts Training Center of Hawaii owned by AngeliCallo and Amado Cacho opened recently offering vocal lessons for children and adults. Angeli is a recording artist who has performed internationally in Japan, Hong Kong and
Jeff Rasmussen, Jordan Segundo, Robi Kahakalau, Rowena Akana, Ron Bongiovanni, Alden Levi and Al Waterson at Rowena Akana’s Fundraiser
THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014 • PAGE 13
Al Waterson
Troy Laureta, Charice and Cheesa Laureta
the Philippines and locally in numerous prestigious events, including the Miss Hawaii USA Pageant, “Wowowee”, The Ronald McDonald House Gala and The Jim Brickman Concert. Amado was selected as a Cast Member of the second national touring company of “Miss Saigon” and performed in packed venues in more than fifty cities. Both of these local stars now want to help aspiring artists achieve their goals as singers and are providing private vocal lessons and group voice workshops for children and adults. For more information, call 3898936 or 782-7247.
••••• The Pet Hui Television Show had a “Pet Star” Photo Contest and after receiving numerous entries, a winner was chosen. The winning photo was a Boston Terrier named “Basil” owned by Allysa Roberts who works at King Street Pet Hospital. This dog now has her own Facebook page and has grown in popularity. The Grand Prize for this lucky dog’s owner is two roundtrip tickets on Alaska Airlines to anywhere the airlines flies. ••••• Brug Bakery located at Shirokiya celebrated their one year anniversary on July 3. Known for their delicious
breads and pastries, this establishment continues to amaze customers with creative specials like layer sandwiches and fruit & cream sandwiches. Check out Brug Bakery on the bottom level of Shirokiya at The Ala Moana Shopping Center. ••••• Rowena Akana is an Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee, At-Large since 1990 and would like to continue serving in OHA. She had her fundraiser recently at The Elks Club and she had a star-studded line-up of entertainment performing on this special night: Al Waterson, Jordan
The Cast of CabaRAE
Segundo, Danny Couch, RobiKahakalau and Jeff Rasmussen. ••••• F o r n o w, T h a t ’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)
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014
By Angie dytioco Santiago
Julius Bajet Soria, Ph.D., was installed as President of the Santanians Association of Hawaii – USA. Dr. Soria, the youngest member to be elected president of the organization, is an instructor with the U.H. ManoaIlokano Language and Literature Program. The installation of Dr. Soria and the other officers and directors took place at the organization’s 20th Anniversary & Induction and Installation of Officers and Directors on May 24, 2014, at the AlaMoana Hotel. Other Santanians installed as officers include: Vice President Roger Ojerio, Secretary Lydia Abajo Pavon, Assistant Secretary Delia Nartatez, Treasurer JulitaLaygui, Assistant Treasurer Amy Quides, Auditor
New Officers and Directors of Santanians Association of Hawaii–USA Installed Leticia Dalit, Assistant Auditor Esther Ramos, Public Relations Officers Ben Aquino and Consuelo Enrico, Sergeant-at-Arms Amante Alforo, Danny Basconcillo, Romie Battad, Melchor Bello, Ted Benicta, and Ray Gamisera. Installed as Board of Directors include: Ricardo Ben, Virginia GozeBenicta, Rene Bitonio, Jaime Dalit, Aurora Garcia, Antonio Nartatez, Jr., Ignacio De Peralta, and Pacita Tuason. The organization’s Advisors include Ireneo Billena, Pio Enrico, Roger Ojerio, Edgar Quides, and Danny Villaruz. Representative Henry J.C. Aquino served as the event’s Keynote Speaker and also installed the officers and directors.
2014 -2015 Officers and Board of Directors of Santanians Association of Hawaii – USA.
Santanians’ High School and College Graduates Recognized Tiffany Jasmine QuiochoBasconcilio was awarded the Santanians Association of Hawaii–USA Scholarship. Tiffany, a graduate of Radford High School,
is the daughter of Danilo and Tessie Basconcillo. She will be attending Chaminade University where she will pursue a Pre-Med degree. Other Santanian high school graduates who were recognized included: Danicah Elise Quiocho Basconcillo and the daughter of Danilo and Tessie Basconcillo; Angelique VillaruzPuesta, the daughter of Elena VillaruzPuesta and the late Nestor Puesta; John Paul Nartatez, the son of Pedro and Jeaneath Nartatez; and Julius Marcus Billena Abajo, the son of Lydia Billena Abajo Pavon. Ludger Quiocho, Jr., son of Ludger and Cecille Quiocho, was recognized as the Santanians’ 2013 college graduate, with a BA in Psychology with a minor in Business Administration from California State University. The organization was established in July 1994 and was founded by Danny
Villaruz, Ben Aquino, Edgar Quides, and Joe Dar. The Santanians organization aims to promote unity, synergy, and cooperation among its members and to serve as a vital link between its members in Hawaii and the province of Ilocos Sur, located in the northern part of the Philippines.
Angie DytiocoSantiago, our Social Media columnist, is a U.H. Manoa graduate. Employed by the City & County of Honolulu since 1986, Angie is an HR Specialist IV with the Equal Opportunity Office. She is currently the Public Relations Officer of the Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii (BCAH) and a member of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH). She served as First Vice President of the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) from 2013 to 2014 and as the BCAH President from 2010 to 2012. She is the daughter of Angel & Rubing Dytioco and is married with two sons. She enjoys photography and participating in cultural activities and events.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014 • PAGE 15
Danilo and TeresitaBasconcillo with daughters Tiffany Jasmine, the recipient of the Santanians Association of Hawaii - USA Scholarship, and Danica Elize, both recent graduates of Radford High School.
Dr. Soria with Rep. Henry and wife Cyndi Aquino.
Members of the Santanians enjoying the event: Flora and Arsenio Cadiz. Standing: Charito and James Baclig.
Entertaining the members and guests were MelroseEdralin, Nora Respicio, Estella Jove, Evelyn Llamas, PerlitaSadorra, Thelma Zales, Andrea Ramelb, and Esther Ramos.
Dr. Julius Soria with his proud family - sisters Trixia and Carmen Soria and parents Patricia and Antonio Soria.
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014
Barbara Sheeder, Past Queen of Daughters of the Nile, Egyptian Temple No. 33 and Miriam Fortuno, High Priestess of Ladies Oriental Shrine of North America, Hawaii Court No. 60 were at the Hale Koa Hotel for the reception of the visiting Supreme Queen Margaret Ann Risk.
The Ceremonial Room was packed at the launch of the Handbook for Hawaii Immigrants. Service providers, government officials, and community leaders got a hold of the handbooks in four languages: English, Ilocano, Chuukese, and Marshallese. Dr. Arnold Villafuerte, Randy Cortez, Rep. Henry Aquino and Ben Cabreros were there to witness the successful launch.
Rep. Henry Aquino, Cindy Aquino, Dr. Julius Soria, President of Santaniano of Hawaii, Jennifer Melchor, Dee DeePaguyo and Jenny Quezon enjoyed their evening at a recent community event.
Fil-Am Courier’s Mary and David Cordero visited the grand opening of Tiano’s Restaurant on July 6, 2014. They enjoyed a variety of local and Filipino appetizers, main dishes and desserts. Tiano’s Restaurant is located in the Waipahu Festival Marketplace Plaza.
Proud parents, Ernie and Melanie Martin, shared the joy of double graduations celebration of their children Mallory, with a law degree from the William S. Richardson School of Law, and Buddy, who received two Bachelor’s Degrees from UH Manoa - one in Hawaiian Studies and the other in Hawaiian Language in just three years. Many friends and relatives attended the event on June 29, 2014 at the Aloha Stadium Hospitality Room with an all Hawaiian theme from entertainment, food, décor and the warm Hawaiian spirit. L-R: Becky, youngest daughter, Ernie, Buddy, Mallory and Melanie. Congratulations and God’s richest blessings to you both.
Rachelle Cabico celebrated her graduation from Waipahu High School at the Hale Koa Hotel on June 1, 2014. The De Russy Room was filled with guests who enjoyed the sumptuous dinner, great entertainment, laughter and lots of dancing! She will attend Leeward Community College studying Biochemistry then plans to pursue a degree in Radiology. Her proud parents are Ronald and Emely Cabico. She has three siblings Jeremiah, Sharlyne and Samantha. Angelica Faylogna, a recent Moanalua High School graduate, is flanked by her family. Standing: M/M Jovencio Faylogna (grandparents), Edwin and NicaFaylogna (parents), and M/M Reynario Vibangco (grandparents). Seated: Aedan (brother) and Angelica. A grand celebration was held at Empress Restaurant on June 14, 2014 where many family and friends who traveled from the mainland came and enjoyed the gathering filled with good food and fun, fine entertainment and great fellowship. Angelica earned several scholarships that will serve her well as she pursues a degree in Nursing at Chaminade University. Congratulations, Angelica!
Ashley Lardizabal received the Aymer Scholarship award from Sacred Hearts Academy. She maintained a GPA higher than 3.7 throughout the 2013-2014 school year and completed 169 hours of community service that earned her this special award. Her parents, Rolando and RizalinaLardizabal, and brother, Ron, joined to witness the presentation. Congratulations Ashley. Keep up the good work!
THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014 • PAGE 17
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014
CLASSIFIED ADS HELP WANTED JANITOR: Pay $7.50-$9.00/ 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.
LABOR:
LITE INDUSTRIAL/ LABORERS - Warehouse - Driver Helper - Production Line - Food Pre p/ Dishwashers Pay $7.25 - $8.50/hr 6 mos of recent work experience needed. For interviews call our Ala Moana office 945-9300, staffing Partners.
Receive a $300 hiring bonus
No nights. No weekends. No experience necessary. Our wonderful atmosphere will make you feel right at home. Weekly pay check, paid mileage, part time and full time, paid holidays off, $11 per hour guaranteed, and family atmosphere. Call Bonnie Williams at 955-6243. Call or come by our office today. The Merry Maids.
Live-In Caregiver (CAN/NA)
Hawaii kai is looking for a caregiver for a 5 beds residential care home, must have experience in a nursing home or a care home. Live in or live out. If interested please call Berly or George 396-4195.
AL PHILLIPS DRY CLEANER WANTED: TAILOR
(Alteration) CSR, pressers, full time with high pay and benefits. Call 808-262-0885, 284-7878 or 780-4211 (Filipino).
KOREAN B. B. Q. COOK HELPER, GRILL COOK
HELP WANTED DISHWASHER
(FULL-TIME or PART-TIME) Hawaii Pot Shabushabu House. 4850 Kapolei Parkway #303 Call Jack (808)388-5493
for sale VALLEY of the Temples Lot with marker, interment vault, and ground opening /closing with Saturday charge. Below market price. Call 232-7262.
for rent KALIHI ROOM FOR RENT: 1 bdrm; $450 plus utilities. Call 845-1820 or 218-2351.
2 Rooms for Rent Available! Call 678-8124
services INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?
Pedestrian/Bicycle /Truck/ Auto/Slip & Fall; Medical MASSAGE: Reduce: Headaches Neck / Back /Shoulder / Leg / Hand PAIN Insurance may cover 100% 808-223-8243/6715556
ADOPTIONS
Former Family Court & Circuit Court Judge Rey Graulty. Call 674-2637 for information.
WEDDINGS-ANYTIME, ANYWHERE.
Judge Graulty (retired) - call 778-8510 to schedule.
Tommy’s Auto Body & Paint. Call 671-8252 for FREE ESTIMATES.Satisfaction Guaranteed.
SHORT ON CASH?
Business Opportunity. $400+ per transaction. Call 295-0577
95-1249 Meheula Hwy. #185, Mililani, HI 96789, Call (808) 623-0988
SALE! SALE! SALE! Business Cards Full Color Free Layout!
PART-TIME HELP WANTED TO PACKAGE CANDIES AND SNACKS.
$50/500pcs. $80/1,000pcs. Call (808) 595-8787
PH: 833-5135
Email: abusmente@ymail.com
THE FIL-AM COURIER • AUGUST 1-15, 2014 • PAGE 19