PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
STATEWIDE community CALENDAR Compiled by Amelia Casamina Cabatu
OAHU November 2, 2015 Deadline for submissions for the 2015 Letter to My Parents Contest Organized by Kalamansi Books & Things, Sariling Gawa- Youth Council, Inc., Read 2 Succeed Foundation and Reyukai America. Ten finalists will be selected and will be invited to present their letters during the final presentation to judges on Saturday, November 21, 2015, 4:00PM at the Executive Dining Room, Campus Center, UH Manoa. Contact Persons: Rose Churma or Toshiro Obara (808) 358-2868 & www.LetterToMyParents.com November 4, 2015 The PMAH Golf Tournament at the Hoakalei Country Club, an 18- hole championship golf course in Ewa Beach. Shot-gun starts at 11:00 AM and Awards, Prizes and Buffet Dinner at 6:00 PM. For the benefit of the PMAH Ohana Medical Mission, Inc. Contact Persons: Elmer Baysa, MD. 689-8315, Russell Kelly, MD. 678-0700, Christopher Regala, MD. 622-2628, Ray Romero, MD. 680-0554 or contact pmahinfo@ gmail.com Ph. 888-674-7624 November 7, 2015 United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH) Reaffirmation of Officers and Progress Awards, Pacific Beach Hotel,
Grand Ballroom, 6:00PM Contact Persons: Maria Etrata 392-2962, Lynne Gutierrez 728-1700, Ben Pulido 421-9747 November 12-22, 2015 Hawaii International Film Festival, the premier international film event in the pacific, showcases features and documentaries from Asia, the Pacific Islands and Hawaii. It has more than one dozen screening sites on six Hawaiian Islands. For more info log onto www.hiff.org November 16- 22, 2015 A Sakada Story, a short documentary featuring the story of Filipino plantation laborers. The story written, directed and produced by filmmaker Maribel Apuya, has been chosen to screen at this year’s Hawaii International Film Festival. Please visit the HIFF website for dates and times of screening for the above story at http://www.hiff.org/filmsevent/ box-office-tickets November 14, 2015 Filipino Business Women’s Association (FBWA); 32nd Annual Kimona Ball and honoring the 2015 Filipino Business Woman of the Year, Armi Oliver Farinas. Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom 6:00 PMContact Persons: Nancy Atmospera Walch 778-3832, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Lina Mercado 382-7751
November 14, 2015 Sampaguita Association of Hawaii 21st Anniversary and Scholarship Awards Night. Hawaii Okinawa Center 5:30 PM-10:30PM Cost: $35.00 Contact Persons: Fely Unico 208-7194 & 783-7154; Chris Barbosa 487-9004, Florence Luzano 455-8254 November 14, 2015 Basic Financial Literacy Seminar brought to you by the Philippine Consulate General Honolulu, from 1:00 PM-3:30PM at the Philippine Consulate General 2433 Pali Highway. Resource speakers from the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs and the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii. Free and open to the public. RSVP to honolulupc@ hawaii.twcbc.com November 21, 2015 Nursing Advocates and Mentors, Inc (NAMI); 14th Anniversary Gala, Appreciation of Volunteer Lecturers and Recognition of newRN’s and Review Graduates; Hale Koa Hotel, Banyan Tree Showroom 6:00pm; Contact Persons: Bea Ramos-Razon 778- 6291, Jun Obaldo 277 -7495 and Bong Curameng 383-0135 November 22, 2015 4th Caregivers Recognition Day Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom 6:00 PM. Presented by the United Group of Home Operators (UGHO), The Primary Care Providers of Hawaii (TPCPH), United Caregivers of Hawaii (UCOP), Caregivers of Hawaii (COH), Adult Foster Home of Hawaii (AFHOP) Contact Persons: Maria Etrata 3922962, Esther Pascual email her at pascuale006@hawaii.rr.com November 29, 2015 Fil-Com Sunday-Pasasalamat! At the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu 3:30 PM-7:30 PM; Contact Person: Arceli Rebollido at the Fil-Com Center 808-680-0451 November 29, 2015 Alliance of Residential Care Administrators (ARCA) Annual Christmas Celebration Hale Koa Hotel Banyan Tree Showroom 6:00 PMContact Person: Lilia Fajotina 291-1706 December 5, 2015 La Union National High School Alumni USA-Hawaii Fundraising Dance and Gala Night Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom 5:30PM-12 Midnight, Dinner @7:15 PM. Cost: $65.00. Contact Persons: Baybee Hufana Ablan 7535616, Elvie Revira 228-2965, Pia Santos Moon 220-2164, Ben Pulido 421-9747 December 5, 2015 Santanians Association of Hawaii-USA Annual Christmas Party and Election of Officers, St. John the Baptist Parish Hall (Kalihi), 6:00 PM-10:00 PM Contact Persons: Julius Soria 722-9958 or Aurora Garcia @ 722-3150 or email santaniansofhiusa@gmail.com December 6, 2015 Pasko sa Fil-Com At the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu 3:00 PM-8:00 PM Contact Person: Arceli Rebollido at the FilCom Center 808680-0451 December 9, 2015 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Board of Directors and General
Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a familiar face in the community, often emceeing community events and parties. She is a veteran radio announcer and guests-hosts on 1270 KNDI Radio. In addition to other affiliations, Amelia is the current Chair of the Philippine Celebration 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 is blessed with one daughter, Armay. Please send your event information to acmina808@gmail.com.
Membership Meeting, & Christmas Holiday Celebration. Location TBD Contact Persons: Sam Acosta 3061428, Jhoydell Magaoay 478-9802 December 11, 2015 Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club (HFWC) Christmas Celebration Ala Moana Hotel Garden Lanai 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Nelly Pongco Liu 228-7808, Chulet Paco 343-2527 December 12, 2015 Adult Foster Homecare Association of Hawaii (AFHA), Christmas Celebration and Coronation of the new Mrs. AFHA. Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Norma Tan 358-4985, Maribel Tan 384-0494 December 12, 2015 Cebuano Association of Hawaii Christmas Party; Sunset Lanai Restaurant, Camp HM Smith Grounds 5:00 PM10:30 PM; Contact Persons: Firmo S. Dayao 339-6626 December 19, 2015 Candonians of Hawaii Christmas Celebration & Fundraiser.FilCom Center, Waipahu, Lunch 11:00 AM-3:00 PM; Contact Persons: Grace Go 389-1989, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 December 19, 2015 Calayab Association Coronation Ball & Christmas Banquet. 6:00 PM FilCom Center, Waipahu, Cost: $55.00. Contact Persons: Gladys Menor 3662317, Dolores Baddo 256-3459 December 20, 2015 The 1st Sakada Day Celebration, 3 PM at the state Capitol grounds. Governor David Ige signed the bill designating December 20th of every year honoring the pioneering achievements of the first Filipino sakadas. Limited seating, RSVP to May Mizuno 741-4503, Amelia CasaminaCabatu 282-2033, Sam Acosta 306-1428, Lindy Aquino email:linyaquino @ gmail.com
2016 CALENDAR YEAR January 16, 2016 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Foundation in cooperation with the City & County of Honolulu presents A Taste of Kalihi; Street Festival. 10:00 AM-6:00 PM Dillingham Shopping Plaza 1505 Dillingham Blvd. Honolulu, Hi. See what Kalihi has to offer. Great entertainment, games, food booths, business booths, exhibitions & more. Contact Persons for vendor opportunities & more information. Sam Acosta 306-1428, Zhoydell Magaoay 478-9802 January 23, 2016 Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Installation & Inaugural of newly elected officers Empress Restaurant 100 N Beretania St. 6:00 PM Cost: $40.00 Contact Persons: Janice Sevilla 595-8000, Lina Longboy 421-7381, Faye Cudal 783-7552, Maggie Domingo 783-0068, Edith Gudoy 841-2881 January 23, 2016 Annak Ti Batac International (ATBI) 5th Anniversary & Legacy Awards. Pacific Beach Hotel, Grand Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Simeon Ortal 422-1667, Trina Pascual 8342970
January 25, 2016 February 6, 2016 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Trade Mission to the Philippines. The delegation will meet with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce to strengthen the business links between Hawaii and the Philippines. Contact Persons: Sam Acosta 3061428, Maria Etrata 392-2962 February 6, 2016 Annak Ti Badoc Iti Hawaii Valentine’s Ball and Scholarship Presentation Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom 6:00PM; Contact Person: Marilyn Tolentino Villar: 678-1482 February 14, 2016 Philippine Nurses Association of Hawaii Valentine’s Dance Fundraiser, Rumours Night Club at the Ala Moana Hotel; 5:00PM-10:00 PM. Contact Persons: Ramon Sumibcay 489-7148, Tina Salvador 426-6183 February 20, 2016 Vogue Pygmalion Hawaii The Lady In Red Gala with Masks, Hawaii Prince Hotel Maunakea Ballroom 7:00 PM Cost: $70.00; To benefit the special projects of Pygmalion Arts Fund, a 501c3 Company; Contact Person: Leo Gozar 630-6268 March 19, 2016 Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club (HFWC) Annual Terno Ball; Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ball 6:00 PM. Contact Persons: Nelly Pongco Liu 228-7808, Carlota Ader 688-3215 March 25, 2016 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Foundation Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament. Ewa Beach Golf Club 91-050 Ft. Weaver Rd. Ewa Beach, HI. Tournament proceeds fund the Foundation’s Scholarship program. Scholarship recipients will be presented during the chambers Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year & Scholarships Awards gala. Contact Persons: Sam Acosta 306-1428, Eddie Agas 783-3327 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 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 8412881, Maggie Domingo 783-0068
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 3
Bennette Espineli Misalucha serving The community since 1987 Publisher Mary Llanos Cordero
HOW FILIPINO ARE YOU?
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 ZenyMuyot Angie Santiago Perfecto Yasay Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim Randy Cortez Radiant Cordero Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus Brandon dela Cruz Christian Evangelista Imelda Gasmen Veronika Geronimo Leo Gozar Ben Gutierrez Kathleen Lee Carmela Minaya Gladys Quinto Marrone Gladys Menor John Pagaragan Paola Rodelas Judy Relosimon Sandra Sagisi Nicole Velasco Jason Ubay MichiVillaruz Neighbor Island Bureau Maui Kit Zulueta Jeremy Zane Big Island Mil Asuncion Jane Clement Dr. Margarita Hopkins Kauai Virgie Cruzada Liza Trinidad Marynell Valenzuela ADVERTISING SALES MarivicAldaya Mary Cordero Annabel Cabebe Florence Tan McCollom Lydia Kamiya Joni Redick-Yundt Rudy Bautista Marynel Valenzuela CIRCULATION Florence Tan (Oahu) Ron Oshiro(Leeward Oahu) David Cordero (Maui) Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai) Milli Asuncion (Big Island) Legal Counsel Alfredo Evangelista, Esq. Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.) THE FIL-AM COURIER is published twice a month by OAHU RELOCATION SERVICES located at 2221 Liliha St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
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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Note: This column was first published in September 2013 but we decided to reprint it in commemoration of FilipinoAmerican Heritage month and this issue’s Courier cover story about the Filipino Community Center. Its message resonates as our community continues to wrestle with identity issues. “I am Spanish-Chinese, mostly local.” T h e yo u n g g i r l wa s responding to my query on her ethnic mix. It was the early 80’s, I had recently moved to Hawaii from the Philippines and I remembered being shocked at how some people here did not want to be identified as a Filipino. This girl was clearly one of them. Dark, petite and blessed with the identifiable Filipino nose, her heritage was unmistakable. Yet, she uttered her lie defiantly, almost challenging me to dispute her response. Yes, despite the fact that her last was Ma_rangdang___, a undeniable Filipino last name. But although she mentioned the blood lines that comprise most Filipinos (Chinese and Spanish), not once did she utter the word “Filipino” in describing her ethnicity. Why would any person deny their heritage? How could any person distance themselves from a culture that forms part of their identity? What experience would make one person ashamed while another may use that experience to overcome? These thoughts cross my mind as we celebrate Filipino-American History month this October. More than thirty years have passed since my
The Filipino Community Center in Waipahu is a symbol of how we have become integrated into the multi-hued fabric that is Hawai’i
encounter with the young girl. I often wonder whether there are still some amongst us who are guilty of such feelings. Could this shame come because of stereotypes? After all, Hawaii is notorious about ethnic stereotypes. We all know what the Filipino stereotypes are and they do not deserve mention here. Enumerating them would only shine light on them and perpetuate their ugliness. Those stereotypes had their origins during the plantation days. With more positive role models, surely, they that have haunted us in the past have hopefully been laid to rest. The Filipinos in Hawaii today have made great strides in business, government and professions. Many of us immigrants were part of the Diaspora of people who have left the Philippines in search of a better life. Our struggles, hopes, dreams and successes are narratives that continue to form our collective identity in Hawai’i. Our stories inspire pride in our ability to blossom where we are planted. Our numbers have increasingly grown, aided by our prolific birth rates and the flow of immigration from the Philippines. The second and third generations have entered respectable
professions and are now part of the mainstream. Lastly, we have built the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu which is a symbol of how we have become integrated into the multi-hued fabric that is Hawai’i. Thus the question begging to be asked: Are our children today proud to be Filipino? What does it mean to be a Filipino today, anyway? So in today’s setting, how “Filipino” should we need to be? Fo r f i r s t g e n e ra t i o n Filipinos, embracing our culture is a given. We cling to the familiar: we regularly serve adobo and pancit at meal times, we subscribe to TFC or GMA channels, we are more comfortable speaking our first language and we adorn our homes with knickknacks that remind us of “home”. But the next generations may have a more difficult time integrating the culture, particularly those in mixed marriages. On the other hand, the reality is, there is a downside to being “too Filipino”. The case for assimilation is compelling. Assimilation simply means “to adopt the ways of another culture”. In this context, “assimilation” means for us to be also
“American” because this is what it would take to be successful in the mainstream world. We have to speak, act and engage like everyone else. I am certainly not suggesting that we lead double or incongruous lives: An American by day, a Filipino when we go home. Or worst, even turn our backs on our own culture and just be “American”. Simply stated, the challenge is how we can comfortably integrate our unique Filipino culture with the host American culture. In many instances, it is a personal journey and there is no blueprint to follow. I believe the ultimate testament of how well we have integrated our identities is to ask our children. One cannot teach well what one does not know. As parents we have to be comfortable in our own skin (of embracing being Filipino) before we can pass that on to our children. At the end of the day, our children reflect back what we ourselves exhibit. Are you proud to be a Filipino? Filipino. American. Filipino-American. Which one are you?
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
By Bennette Espineli Misalucha
Managing Editor, Fil-am Courier
Our cover....
Our cover features the honorees for this year’s Filipino Community Center’s 13th Bayanihan Gala which will be held at the Sheraton Waikiki on October 31st. Left to right: Guy Fujimura of ILWU 142, Meredith Ching of Alexander and Baldwin, William “Bill” Balfour, Stephanie Whalen of Hawaii Sugar Planters Association (now known as Hawaii Agriculture Research Center) and sakada Angel Ramos who is also a plantation historian. Not in photo: William “Bill” Paty Our honorees were photographed by the talented James Ramos at the grounds of the Filcom Center. James can be reached at james@ jamesramosphotography.com or 808 345 3924. Cover concept by Noah Felipe of OrigMedia. A big mahalo to Jeff Orig of OrigMedia. Both Jeff and Noah may be reached at www.origmedia. com or (808) 447-9559.
In 1897, Oahu Sugar Company opened its sugar mill in the town of Waipahu. Anchored by the smoke stack which could be seen from miles around, the sugar mill was then the center of activity for then plantation life. Small stores which catered to plantation workers’ families dotted the neighborhood, the most prominent of which was Arakawa’s, which sold
its recognizable palakadesign shirts. Across the mill was an open field where the community gathered for the occasional athletic events, carnivals and band concerts. Later, that field would be named in honor of Hans L’Orange, a plantation manager who served from 1937-1956. By 1995, however, the sugar industry was like a dying man gasping for breath as global market conditions forced the company to face the inevitable. The Oahu Sugar Company closed its doors for the final time after the last harvest that year. Its closure ushered in transformations in the State’s economy as well as changes to this Waipahu neighborhood. To d a y, t h e h i s t o r i c
The Filcom Center
smoke stack in Waipahu still stands where it has always stood; a silent witness to the shifting scenes of the past twenty years. Hans L’Orange Park has remained an open field, and continues to attract spectators to its occasional baseball games. But nothing else in the neighborhood has remained constant. What was once Arakawa’s is now an ethnic open market. Below the smoke stack sits the tidy modern facilities of Leeward YMCA. But the most noticeable change along Manager’s Drive, in a corner lot directly across Hans L’Orange Park, is the presence of a beige edifice with its distinctive Spanish architecture. A life-sized bronze statue occupies a prominent place
along its facade, seemingly welcoming visitors to the facility. On any given day, one can find people milling around the area for one reason or another, whether it be a student attending a nursing review class, a senior citizen learning computers or a fitness warrior intent on keeping fit through Zumba. Welcome to the world of the Filipino Community Center. Since its inauguration in 2002, the Filipino Community Center has embraced its role as a gathering place for the people on the West side. Although it has remained true to its goal of perpetuating Filipino culture, it has also served as a venue to celebrate life’s milestones, whether it be weddings, baptisms,
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 5
The 13th FilCom Center Bayanihan Gala Honorees Angel Ramos
Angel Ramos
Angel Ramos has a compelling personal narrative that reflects the multitudes of stories of Filipino plantation workers who were recruited at the turn of the century to work in Hawaii’s plantation fields. Pretending to be 18 years old, when in fact he was only 17 years old, the adventurous Angel Ramos arrived in Hawaii in 1946, aboard the MS Maunawili, and was initially assigned to the Libby Pineapple Plantation in Haiku. Wanting a better life at a bigger milieu, Ramos transferred to Kahuku Sugar Co shortly thereafter.
He married his wife Rose in 1948 and the kids started coming. With a growing family, Ramos was motivated to work hard, first as a laborer, then later, a machinist for Kahuku Sugar for almost thirty years until it closed in 1971, after which he worked for another 25 years at Turtle Bay Resort as well as the City and County of Honolulu. Angel and Rose built a simple but wonderful life together in the enclaves of the old plantation village where Ramos still lives today. They had 13 children, 42
grandchildren and a number of great grandchildren. Rose passed away last year but Ramos, who’s still strong and sprightly at 86, continues to gather the family together during special occasions. In his retirement, he has become quite a gardener, and he has planted his garden with a profusion of ornamental plants as well as vegetables. But what sets Angel apart is his dedication to preserving the plantation history. A selfconfessed pack-rat, Angel has accumulated plantation memorabilia that could fill a
and, it owns and operates the state’s only sugar plantation and largest farm—HC&S on Maui. For the last 145 years, A&B has been helping to build a better Hawaii with the help of a diverse family of employees. The waves of immigrant workers who came to Hawaii to work on the sugar plantations, and the three generations of
employees who followed, have supported A&B’s success. The Filipinos were the last of the immigrant groups and today still account for 65% of HC&S’ employees.
museum. In fact, it has! Most of the artifacts found in the Plantation Village in Waipahu came from his personal donation. In addition, he can regale anyone who would care to listen to interesting facets of the life back then. Ramos is equally passionate about his photography, and he houses a collection of incredible pictures that showcase the simple but rich plantation life. Angel Ramos. Proud Sakada. A witness to Hawaii’s changing times. Historian.
Photo Credit: James Ramos
Alexander and Baldwin
Meredith Ching A & B Executive Photo Credit: James Ramos
In 1870, two childhood friends, Samuel Thomas Alexander and Henry Perrine Baldwin, formed a partnership to grow sugarcane on 12 acres on Maui. 145 years later, that partnership has grown to become Alexander & Baldwin, Inc.—one of Hawaii’s leading companies, with interests in agriculture, real estate development, commercial real estate, materials and infrastructure construction.
With ownership of over 88,000 acres in Hawaii, A&B is the state’s fourth largest private landowner, and one of the state’s most active real estate investors. The Company manages a portfolio comprising five million square feet of leasable space in Hawaii and on the U. S. Mainland and is the second largest owner of retail assets in the state. A&B is also Hawaii’s largest materials company and paving contractor
baby luaus or graduations— the celebrations of which cross racial and cultural boundaries. Whether by design or by a stroke of destiny, the Filcom Center — like the sugar mill of the past, has evolved as the center of activity in this area. Steeped in plantation history and surrounded by the physical vestiges of the once-thriving plantation life, the Filipino Community Center thus deemed it appropriate to remember
the plantation legacy as its theme for this year’s annual Bayanihan Gala fundraiser. There will be six honorees, all of whom represent a particular facet of the plantation history. The Bayanihan Gala will be held on Saturday, October 31st at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel with silent auction/reception starting at 5 p.m. and the dinner commencing at 6:30 p.m.
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
The 13th FilCom Center Bayanihan Gala Honorees William “Bill” Balfour
Bill Balfour
Photo Credit: James Ramos
Don’t let William Balfour’s strict mien fool you. Underneath all that lies a soft heart that is sentimental and easily touched. F o r t u n a t e l y, a l l t h a t sentimentality did not get in the way of business because as Balfour himself will tell you, the plantation he managed, Oahu Sugar Plantation, was one of the most productive of them all. Spanning 19,000 acres with 900 employees, it was considered one of the “crown jewels” at the zenith of Hawaii’s
sugar industry. For more than forty years, Balfour gave of himself to managing Hawaii’s plantations including Pioneer Mill Company, Lihue Plantation Company and McBryde Sugar Company. Born on the island of Kauai, William “Bill” Balfour majored in general agriculture while in College at the University of Missouri. He later graduated from Stanford University’s Executive Management programs.
At the age of 27, he started to work for the Leihue Plantation in agricultural research and as decades passed, Bill’s understanding of the business grew deep. He was passionate about the work. Not wanting to shirk his responsibilities, he once took on the work of three department heads, working 90 hours per week. But global forces were no match for Balfour’s work ethic, and as Hawaii lost its footing in the global sugar market, Oahu
Sugar was finally closed in 1995. Today, Balfour still wakes up at 4 am—the same time when he was still working at the plantations. He still holds down a full time job and is on the road before 8 am. At 83 years old, his energy knows no bounds. But once in a while, he will be the first to admit: he pauses in remembrance of sugar’s glorious past.
Fujimura
Domingo
Filipinos were very active in the union and were active participants in some of the historic strikes. Other notable Filipino leaders at ILWU over the years were Constantine (Sammy Samson) and Carl Damaso, Fred Galdones and Eusenbio “Bobo” Lapinia Jr. Today, ILWU counts over 20,000 members and retirees
in every major industry including long-shore, tourism, agriculture and general trades including health care, retail and manufacturing. The leadership structure include Guy Fujimura, a 40-year veteran, as SecretaryTreasurer, and Donna Domingo as President. Domingo is the first female President of ILWU.
ILWU 142 The International Longshore and Warehouse Union 142 changed the labor movement in Hawaii, and in a way, changed the course of Hawaii’s history. As waves of plantation workers arrived from Japan, Korea and the Philippines, their working and living conditions were less than ideal. It took the collective strength of the union and the workers to overcome all odds and receive the promise of better working conditions. Organizing efforts were initially separate and independent with union activists representing various crafts, at each plantation, on every island. But it soon became apparent that to get better outcomes from employers, greater unity was needed. In 1938, four territory-wide locals joined
forces: Local 136-Longshore and Allied Workers of Hawaii; Local 142-United Sugar Workers; Local 150-Warehouse, Manufacturing & Allied Workers and Local 152-Pineapple and Cannery Workers. In 1952, they merged into a consolidated Local 142 in order to build upon each other’s strengths and to better service ILWU members. The iconic labor leader Jack Wayne Hall who is credited for working tirelessly with other mainland and local labor activists in building the union into the dynamic unit is it today was elected as the first ILWU Regional director. Elected to be the first President of the consolidated ILWU Local 142 was Filipino-American Antonio Rania who was born in Badoc, Ilocos Norte.
Photo Credit: James Ramos
William “Bill” Paty
Bill Paty
Photo Credit: James Ramos
William “Bill” Paty has marked his time in the community in numerous capacities and roles, all of which he managed to fulfill with excellence. He was Director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, a tireless community volunteer, an environmental advocate, a political advisor, and a business leader for most of his 90 years. But being a farmer was always Bill’s first love, and his association with the sugar industry for more than four decades continues to provide him with endless pleasure and joyful memories. Bill Paty had always aspired to be in the sugar business even
at a young age. In fact, to get a head start, he started working summers at the plantation and at the HSPA experimental station throughout high school. After graduation from Punahou School, he headed to Cornell University where he secured a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. His happiness could not be contained when he got his first job at Waialua Sugar as an Assistant Agriculturist. But the timing was bad as the war broke out and Paty enlisted and served honorably in Europe. When he returned to Waialua Sugar after the war ended, he was named Ag Assistant, and the promotions
kept coming over the years. One of the milestones was in 1946 when he was named Industrial Relations Director at a time when the union was getting more militant. Paty, whose humble ways endear himself to everyone he meets, made a point to build relationships with union leaders, and although not always pleasant, he was able to negotiate win-win agreements that were acceptable on both sides. I n 1 9 8 6 , Pa t y r e t i r e d from Castle and Cook after spending more than 40 years as a plantation manager. During his tenure, he earned a reputation for being an astute
businessman, a community advocate, and for building teamwork amongst his employees. Today, Paty, who is in his 90s, continues to be active and can still be found conducting business meetings on Bishop Street. Yes, Waialua Sugar may be no more, but on weekends, one can still find Paty happily roaming his precious Waialua with his grandchildren in tow. You can get the man out of the “country” but you obviously just can’t get the “country” out of this man.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 7
The 13th FilCom Center Bayanihan Gala Honorees HARC The Hawaii Sugar Planters Association was the trade Association for the sugar i n d u s t r y i n H a wa i i w h i c h promoted its development, conducted scientific/economic studies and gathered accurate information on the industry. Established in 1895, the HSPA was the “repository of knowledge” of the sugar industry in Hawaii. At the height of the plantation era, HSPA actively campaigned to bring workers to Hawaii, and in fact, opened offices in Manila and Vigan to recruit Filipinos to bring them passage to Hawaii. HSPA was an organization that ensured alignments of goals amongst the sugar cane plantations. They tackled issues related to agriculture
and facilitated discussions. Over the decades, HSPA’s agricultural research had gained international recog-nition for developing research on seed, fertilization and irrigation practices at its experimental stations, the credibility of which is said to be second to none in the sugar world. In 1996, under the leadership of its Executive Director Stephanie Whalen, HSPA changed its name to Hawaii Agriculture Research Center (HARC) to reflect its changing focus. Today, it continues to conduct research in coffee, forestry, forage, vegetable crop and tropical fruits. O n e o f H S P A’ s m o s t significant contributions to this community is its commitment
to keeping historical records of the sugar industry. As companies and plantations vanished, HSPA stepped up to ensure business records were preserved. As a result, it had the most comprehensive archival collection of the era. In 1995, the HSPA Board of Directors voted to donate the precious records to the University of Hawaii at Manoa library to make it accessible to anyone. The HSPA Plantation Archives provide researchers with a treasure trove of details on plantation life, business aspects of the sugar industry and the historical context of the operations. Covering the years from 1950-1991, the Plantation archives is one of the most heavily used at the UHM
ORIGINAL ARTWORK TO BE FEATURED IN PLANTATION LEGACY AWARDS The six honorees at the Filipino Community Center Gala will be given a framed original artwork specially commissioned for the occasion. The featured artist is Jaime de Jesus, a noted illustrator. Born and raised in Manila, Jaime de Jesus—who is fondly called “Bong” by friends and family—grew up in the San Juan/Mandaluyong area. After graduating from Ateneo (where he spent his elementary and high school years), he headed East and earned an undergraduate degree at The Philadelphia College of Art and a graduate school degree at Syracuse University. Bong had been a notable illustrator of internationally published books before retiring in 2013. Currently residing in Oahu, he has been married for 40 years to Mary Boland and they have two grown daughters.
Bennette Espineli Misalucha is the Fil-Am Courier’s Managing Editor.
She has
been affiliated with the Courier since 1987 as a contributing writer and as Managing Editor since April 2013. She started her career as a journalist, and was a reporter/producer both in Hawaii (at KHON Channel 2 News) and in Cebu, Philippines.
Whalen Executive Director
Library Hawaiian Collection. HARC operates nowadays from an office at the Kunia Agricultural complex.
Photo Credit: James Ramos
PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
Happy 28 Years of Service to the Filipino Community “The Courier over the years has become a solid institution for highlighting progress for Hawaii’s Filipinos. It’s certainly not a wild exaggeration to say you haven’t made an impact in our community until you’ve been on the cover of the Fil-Am Courier or featured in a profile in its pages. Mary, Alice, Armand, Radiant, Bennette, Danielle, Alfredo, and all the other hardworking and talented editors, writers, photographers, contributors and legal advisors over the years should be celebrated and thanked as true island treasures for producing the Courier.” Senator Gilbert Keith-Agaran Hawaii State Senate, District 5
“Congratulations to The Fil-Am Courier for 28 years of service to the State of Hawaii. The Fil-Am Courier has been an important part of the community in Hawaii and I look forward to many more years of success.” Representative Ty J. K. Cullen Hawaii State House, District 39
“CONGRATULATIONS! For 28 years, Fil-Am Courier has served as a unifying link among the many ethnic groups of Filipino Americans in Hawaii. The link that connects the spirit of ONE FILIPINO. I am fortunate to be part of that movement- in community affairs, government and public policy.” Representative Romy M. Cachola Hawaii State House, District 30
I would like to congratulate FIL-AM COURIER, the number one Filipino publication in HAWAII on their 28th year anniversary. I always love to read the entertainment side of Fil-Am Courier article because I always want to find out what’s going on in the local entertainment community. Being part of the local entertainment scene, and now I’m into concert promoting, it’s always nice to partner with the number one Filipino newspaper which is the Fil-Am Courier! Arnold Pontillas Concert Promoter
As your first cover 28 years ago, it is certainly my pleasure to congratulate you on your longevity and presence in our community. Your publication has graced our home and business with informative articles and news here and abroad that each publication has been a blessing for all of us. May your success continue for many years to come! Congratulations and God bless. Melodie Aduja Attorney Congratulations Fil-Am Courier and Staff for 28 years of incredible service . Your newspaper has something for everyone. Once again congratulations and best wishes for many many years to come! Artemio Basilio and Russel Reis Avid Readers of Courier
Congratulations to all the staff of Fil-Am Courier and happy 28th anniversary. More blessings for the Year of the Monkey in 2016. Helen Adriano Phlebotomist
Congratulations to the Management and Staff of the Fil-Am Courier! Thank you for your dedication and service to the Filipino communities of Hawaii! Eddie Flores President and CEO L&L Hawaiian BBQ
“The Fil-Am Courier has made great strides forward since its inception in 1987. Its staying power is a testament to the true grit, dogged determination and hard work of the publisher and her production and editorial team. Congratulations and thank you for 28 years of service to the community.” Mila Medallion-Kaahanui Former Editor-in-Chief
I would like to congratulate the Fil Am Courier on their 28th anniversary. Professionalism, punctuality, and great customer service is of their upmost priority. I highly recommend them for business advertising services. Renate Kawakami Consultant Notary Public
Congratulations and Mabuhay to Fil-Am Courier’s 28th year and their hardworking staff! Mary and her team are always professional and timely. They continually give back to the community! Kudos to a job well done! Vanessa Kop Broker, Managing Director Newmark Grubb CBI
Congratulations Fil-Am Courier for celebrating your 28th year anniversary. Your dedication & public service to the community is excellent! MaramingSalamat, Dios tiagngina, Daghang Salamat. From the Management & Staff of Geronimo Broadcasting, Inc. KNDI 1270 AM
I would like to express my congratulatory wishes to Fil-Am Courier on its 28th anniversary and the great impact it has made on the Filipino community statewide. Thank you for your great work and I offer my best wishes on continued success in the future. Aloha and Mabuhay, Henry J.C. Aquino State Representative, District 38, Waipahu
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 9
PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
By Dr. Christopher Tortora, M.D. Medical Director of Hawaiian Eye Center
In October 1975, John
Corboy, M.D., founded Hawaiian Eye Center with the mission ofcreating a firstclass medical eye care and surgery center in Hawaii. At the time, local medical care wasn’t up to par
Hawaiian Eye Center Celebrates Four Decades Serving Hawaii For 40 Years, Life Has Never Looked Better!
with that of the mainland, and Dr. Corboy was one of the first to deliver modern outpatient surgery and high-quality service with a personal touch. Dr. Corboy decided to pass the torch to
to underserved populations
was another passion of Dr.
now airs every Saturday on
known as the Femtosecond
me in 2000 so he could shift
throughout the Pacific.
Corboy and he launched
KHVH 830 AM and KHBZ
laser. This laser is used in
his focus onto his Hawai-
Educating the public
“The Hawaiian Eye Show” in
990 AM, has been under my
the most technologically
ian Eye Foundation, which
about the importance of
1980 on KGU 99.5 FM. The
direction since 1995 and is
advanced form of cataract
brings top-notch eye care
preventative eye health
weekly broadcast, which
the longest running medical
surgery known as the “Laser
radio show in Hawaii.
Assisted Cataract Surgery.”
Today, our center op-
The use of this technology
erates clinics in Wahiawa
allows for the opportunity
and Waipahu on Oahu, as
to enhance the outcome of
well as Hilo on the Big Is-
surgeries and also offers
land. My associate Steven
patients the ability to reduce
Rhee, D.O., and I continue
their dependence on eye-
to offer a wide range of ad-
glasses and contact lenses.
vanced services, including
eye exams, care of chronic
as one of Honolulu Maga-
eye diseases, surgery for
zine’s 2015 “Top Doctors in
cataracts and glaucoma and
Hawaii” and the center was
even transportation to and
named one of this year’s
from the facility for those in
“Best Places to Work” by
need.
Hawaii Business Magazine—
Staying on top of eye
four years running. Even
care innovations, we have
after serving the people of
recently started utilizing
Hawaii for 40 years, we have
a cataract removal proce-
no plans to slow down.
Recently, I was honored
dure at our surgical center
Dr. Christopher Tortora, a board certified ophthalmologist, is host of “The Hawaiian Eye Show,” a weekly informational radio program about healthy vision broadcast live every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KHVH 830 AM/rebroadcast at 9 p.m. on KHBZ 990 AM. He and his colleagues at the Hawaiian Eye Center are committed to educating the public about the importance of preventative eye care. To learn more about a variety of eye health issues, please call the Hawaiian Eye Center at 621-8448 or visit www. HawaiianEye.com and www.Facebook.com/HawaiianEyeCenter, where “life has never looked better.”
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 11
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
By Jane Clement
The University of Hawaii at Hilo Campus Center Plaza was transformed into a barrio fiesta scene during the kickoff event of the month-long celebration of the Filipino American Heritage Month on the Big Island. University staff, students and community members donning colorful traditional and modern Filipino attires opened the event with a short parade down the center plaza. This is the third year that the University is organizing this event as part of its Filipino Studies Certificate Program. The program is intended to allow Filipino American students the opportunity to explore their heritage and for everyone else to learn more about the Philippines. Dr. Randy Hirokawa, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, attributed the success of the program to the hard
Members of the Big Island Filipino Community Council offered a medley of Tagalog and Ilokano kundiman.
Students of the Filipino Studies Certificate Program performing a traditional tribal dance
UH HILO CELEBRATES FILIPINOAM ERICAN HISTORY MONTH work and dedication of Dr. Norman Arancon and Dr. Rodney Jubilado during his speech. Enrollment to the program has increased from five students in its inaugural year to over fifty students this year. The day-long festivity celebrated Filipino culture with entertainment, food, pageantry, music and games. There was food sampling where people could sample delectable Filipino desserts, a “puso” or hanging rice making demonstration and
even a lechon roasting right on campus the traditional way over an open flame. A fun addition to the celebration this year was the jeepney ride around the campus. I had the honor of taking councilwoman Valerie Poindexter, who is half Filipino, for a short ride in it. I felt a momentary sense of nostalgia as it brought back so many memories from home. Other guests who have never ridden a jeepney before got a fleeting sense of our Filipino lifestyle.
But perhaps the most memorable and most anticipatedpart of the entire event was the balut eating contest. A few brave adventurers signed up for the contest including councilman Greggor Ilagan who said in his speech earlier in the day that he wants to “rediscover” his identity as a Filipino. If devouring an entire balut without heaving is a litmus test if one really is a “Pinoy”, then I think he passed with flying colors.
Iris Viacrusis showing off a bowl of balut and his wonderful display of Filipino desserts
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 13
Students performing a traditional and modern versions of the Tinikling dance
Councilwoman Valerie Poindexter and Jane Clement getting ready to ride around the campus in the jeepney.
“Binasuhan” dance as performed by the Filipino Studies Certificate Program students
Members of the Hilo Visayan Club demonstrating how to make “puso”
Councilman Greggor Ilagan, Dr. Rodney Jubilado, Jane Clement and Dr. Norman Arancon
Councilwoman Valerie Poindexter and Dr. Randy Hirokawa showing off their Tinikling dancing skills
Our Big Island columnist Jane Caballero Clement is also the President of the Congress of Visayan Organizations and the President of the Kona Visayan Club. She works as a Legislative Assistant to Councilman Dru Kanuha. In addition to her volunteer activities, Jane finds time to host a Filipino television show on the local cable channel.
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
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 Hanamaula 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 for Visayan Organizations.
Cast members in their colorful costumes of the play “Lapu-lapu”, written and directed by Virgie Cruzada which was presented at the gala night of the 28th Congress of Visayan Organizations (COVO) held on Kauai last August 8, 2010 at the Kauai Coconut Beach resort: Vaugh Fernandez (Rajah Humabon); Elsie Ramos (Humamai Humabon/Sinolug dancer); Rina Pascual (Sinulog dancer); Edmon Battulayan (guardsman); Noli Basnillo (guardsman); Rodilio Baring (Lapu-lapu), a real descendant of Lapu-Lapu; Benedict Robles (native warrior); Shirley Negrillo (Bulakna, Lapu-lapu’s wife); Cheryl Ouye (Lady in-waiting, partly hidden); Cheryl Jobe (Lady in-waiting); Wilfred Estenzo (expedition priest); Zosimo Mata (native warrior); Harold Tallano (Spanish soldier); Alfonso Afos (Ferdinand Magellan); and Taylor Campbell (Spanish soldier). Nita Alquisalas (Sinulog dancer) was not available when this group picture was taken.
Visayan beauties: Vivian Teshima, Rose Leach, Pia Salvador, Myrna Gooding, Beth Lelm, and Jane Clement.
COVO Officers at the panel table during the daytime session held at King Kaumu’ali’i Elementary School: Hernando Tan, Virgie Cruzada (Vice-Pres.); May Mizuno (Pres.); Mary Cruzada (Treasurer)
COVO Officers and members enjoyed an after-breakfast photo op during their recent visit at the residence of Bobby and Virgie Cruzada of Kauai on August 8, 2015, (COVO Convention). Left to Right: Ben Sanchez, Dita Marshall, Cora Nelson, Jane Clement, Eva Washburn-Repollo, Hernando Tan, Juanita Tan, May Mizuno, Virgie Cruzada, Bobby Cruzada, and Curtis Washburn.
A very attractive and graceful Sinulog dancer, Nita Alquisalas of Hanamaulu with her husband, Nelson (right), and her brother, Raymundo Sabay.
Rhoda Libre, a seasoned entertainer at Smith’s Boat in Wailua, did an excellent job as Mistress of Ceremony during the gala night. Here, she is flanked by some cast members of the Lapulapu play. (Back row, Left to Right): Noli Basnillo (in red bandana); Benedict Robles (Front Row, Left to Right): Cheryl Jobe, Shirley Negrillo, Rhoda Libre, Rodilio Baring, and Zosimo Mata
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 15
by Dr. Rickie Camara
There is a joke in Hawaii that goes like this: “How do angry Filipino patients say, ‘screw you, Doctor?’” The answer, “Yes, Doctor. Yes, Doctor.” “ N i c e ” , “ h o s p i t a b l e ” , “respectful”, and “polite” have all been used as traits to describe Filipinos. But is it good for us? There is a saying that, “nice people finish last,” implying that people take advantage of nice people. That’s true only if you equate niceness with lacking selfconfidence and being passive. You can be assertive and nice if you start by being nice to yourself first and not let anyone walk all over you. Being nice without regard to any benefits that may come from it is ideal. Be nice simply because it feels good. There are so many benefits of niceness. Following are the niceties of being nice. Our brains are literally wired to be nice and compassionate. The periaqueductal gray (PAG) region of the brain which is responsible for functions such as pain modulation, anxiety and sexual behavior, has been shown to be involved when subjects are stimulated to feel kindness and compassion. This is true too for the caudate nucleus and the anterior cingulate cortex of the brain, which are responsible for pleasure and rewards. These regions of the brain are important for survival so it is not surprising that recent studies have shown that cooperative behaviors actually increase survival of animal and human populations. It is cooperation not competition that is instinctive; and the rule is ‘survival of the nicest.’ Acts of kindness can also lead to increases of oxytocin in the brain and body. This can cause the release of a chemical called nitric oxide which dilates in blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.
K i n d n e s s c a n a l s o h ave an anti-depressant effect mediated by the release of serotonin. Even just focusing on warm, kind, compassionate thoughts about yourself and others, a practice called “loving kindness meditation,” can have many positive effects including increased feelings of joy, interest, serenity and hope. These feelings are linked to a boast in vagal nerve tone, lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease and reduces inflammation in the body. Governments in Singapore and Canada have realized the positive effects of niceness in nation building. The Singapore Kindness Movement seeks to encourage everyone to start, show and share kindness; to inspire graciousness one kind act at a time. This movement was formed in 1997 under the leadership of then Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong who saw a gracious society as one of the pillars of a strong country, together with a strong economy and good government. Today, Singapore is consistently rated as one of the most desirable places to live. It has one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, and Singaporeans have few complaints. The nicer Singapore is viewed as a place to live, the more the flow of capital and investment
there is. Canadian niceness on the other hand is described as pure and untainted. Studies have shown that Canadians, perhaps in an effort not to offend, use an overabundance of “hedge words”, such as “could be” and “not bad.” And the most coveted of Canadian words: “sorry.” Sounds familiar, right? Yes, because we Filipinos are known as one of the sweetest and loving people in the world! Niceness is great for relationships too and is key to a functional, long-term marriage and partnership. Dr. John and Julie Gottman from Seattle, WA are able to predict - with 94 percent accuracy - which couples will stay together by just looking at certain indicators of niceness in their communication and relating to each other. Love they say is about developing a ‘habit of mind’ wherein you respond the right way to a partner’s “bids for connection” rather than dismissing it. It is like in Improv where you are encouraged to say “yes, and” rather than “no, but.” So for example, if your partner says, “what a lovely day outside,” a positive response would be something like, “Yes, and maybe we can go for a walk!” Being nice is a great technique to soften your karma away from negative thoughts, speech and actions to more positive life-affirming,
joyful feelings. Just simply be concerned with the people you are with and ask, “What is their need?” One tends to be more depressed when one is self-obsessed and moving away from selfish ego-hood makes you happier and happier. Being nice is a skill and like anything, the more you practice it, the better you get. Do it because it feels nice to be nice. Because I may have held your attention for too long, it would be nice of me to end this article now.
Dr. Rickie Camara is a BoardCertified psychiatrist and Bikram Yoga teacher. He teaches yoga classes at Hotyoga8 in Kaimuki and at Bikram Yoga Kapolei. 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.
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
Reclaiming the Global Commons:
By Randy Cortez
“Half of the world’s seaborne trade passes through the South China Sea, annually valued at $5.3 trillion.” These were the opening words declared by Senior Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines Antonio T. Carpio for a September 18th lecture entitled “Developments and Evidence in the Philippine Arbitration Against China on the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea Dispute” at the University of Hawaii’s William S. Richardson School of Law. At the lecture, Justice C arpio d i s c u s s ed recen t developments concerning the Philippine arbitration currently pending before the United Nations Arbitral Tribunal at the Permanent Court of Arbitration, Peace Palace at the Hague inthe Netherlands. After multiple incidents with Chinese sea ve s s e l s , t h e P h i l i p p i n e s initiated a United Nations Convention on the Law and the Sea (UNCLOS) Annex VII arbitration in 2013. The arbitration considers policy implications stemming from China’s recent massive buildup of land reclamation activities in the disputed South China/West Philippine Sea. More specifically, the Philippine arbitrations seek to invalidate China’s famous “9-dash line” map asserting Chinese ownership over the entirety of the West Philippine/ South China Sea. In light of the tension between the
The Fight for the Philippine Sea
two, the arbitration seeks a peaceful resolution to the dispute. Indeed, in an article from GMA News Online, Justice Carpio commented that, “The Philippines loses about 80 percent of its exclusive economic zone facing the West Philippine Sea.” he said. “China’s nine-dashed lines claim encloses 85.7 percent of the entire South China Sea. This is equivalent to 3 million square kilometers out of 3.5 million square kilometers surface area.” According to Justice Carpio, China did not explain the legal basis for the 9 dashes. Furthermore, the terms China uses, namely “adjacent” and “relevant” waters, to substantiate their claims,are not official United Nations Convention on the Law and the Sea (UNCLOS) terms. When prompted to elaborate on these terms, China refused to explain their meanings. Based on China’s actions, Justice Carpio interprets the 9-dashed lines as conferring u p o n C h i n a s ove r e i g n t y rights. In other words, if Philippine Navy ships cross this “national boundary” line, they would must first seek permission from China. Since 1946, China’s gradual expansion in the South China Sea has led to moving their defense perimeter southward. This expansion, Justice Carpio asserts, is China’s grand design to control the South China Sea for economic and military purposes.
Photo Credit: Philippine Consulate in Honolulu
The arbitration against China is solely a maritime dispute, not territorial since the disputed areas are low-tide elevations (LTEs). UNCLOS has no jurisdiction over territorial disputes, only maritime disputes. Under UNCLOS, only the Philippines can seize land in low-tide elevations. Therefore an LTE, states Justice Carpio, “does not become an island or rock above water at high tide by virtue of reclamation” (GMA News Online). Moreover, he explains that “Reclamation cannot convert an island incapable of human habitation or economic life of its own into one that is capable” (GMA News Online). In applying this rationale, Justice Carpio argues that the artificial structures China has constructed, and continues to construct, are clearly illegal under the UNCLOS.
Legally, only the Philippines can construct these artificial structures within its exclusive economic zones (EEZ) or continental shelf. To d a t e , C h i n a h a s constructed the following artificial structures on top of these LTEs: • Subi Reef • Johnson Reef • McKennan Reef • Kagitingan Reef • Gaven Reef • Calderon Reef The 9-dashed lines. A seemingly innocuous claim promoted by China over the entire South China/West Philippine Sea. This claim, if left unchecked, carries significant ramifications. Continued enforcement of these “9-dashed lines” places
the Philippines in a crisis of national proportions. Justice Carpio, with the official support of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, continues to provide lectures all over the world to discuss the merits, evidence, and developments of the South China/West Philippine Sea dispute. B o r n i n D a v a o C i t y, Philippines, Justice Antonio T. Carpio was sworn in as member of the Supreme Court on October 26, 2001. Justice Carpio obtained his law degree in 1975 from the College of Law of the University of the Philippines where he graduated valedictorian and cum laude.
Sources: Carpio, Antonio. “”Developments and Evidence in the Philippine Arbitration Against China on the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea Dispute.” University of Hawaii – Manoa.William S. Richardson School of Law, Honolulu, HI. 18 September 2015. Keynote Address. Justice Antonio T. Carpio.,Supreme Court of the Philippines, (2013), http://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/aboutsc/justices/j-carpio.php. Justice Caprio: China’s Reclamation Poses ‘National Crisis’ for PHL”, GMA News Online, (Apr. 23, 2015), http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/ story/475282/news/nation/justice-carpio-china-s-reclamation-posesnational-crisis-for-phl. UN Arbitral Tribunal Starts Hearing on Philippine Case vs. China, PhilStar, (July 7, 2015), http://www.philstar.com/ headlines/2015/07/07/1474277/un-arbitral-tribunal-starts-hearingphilippines-case-vs-china.
Randy Cortez currently attends the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii Manoa. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy along with a Bachelor’s Degree in Filipino and Philippine Literature at the same institution. Randy is a Past President of the JCI-Hawaii Filipino Junior Chamber (a.k.a Filipino Jaycees), and also devotes his time to the Knights of Rizal - Hawaii Chapter.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 17
By brandon elefante Council Member City and County of Honolulu
Expanding affordable housing opportunities and housing the homeless
As we continue to search for options to make more housing units available in an affordable range, we have appealed to landlords to participate in the Housing First program. I also recently introduced Resolution 15284 urging the Hawaii State Legislature to appropriate sufficient funds to ensure that the public housing rental units that are currently offline pending renovations/ repairs are renovated as soon as possible to help meet the shortage of affordable housing units. With over 400 units offline it becomes critical that these public housing units be restored to the available inventory of homes quickly. The Hawaii State Legislature appropriated $45 million in Fiscal Year 2014 and $26 million in Fiscal Year 2015 to the Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA) to upgrade and renovate public housing facilities. In the last legislative session, l aw m a ke r s a p p r o p r i a t e d $4.1 million per year for Fiscal Years 2016 and 2017 to be used for improvements and renovations of public housing facilities, though the HPHA Executive Director testified that the Authority needed $180 million to begin addressing the $822 million backlog of public housing repair and maintenance needs over the next 10 years. The state and the city are both engaged in finding ways to increase affordable housing opportunities, and by quickly prioritizing and funding these repairs at our existing public housing projects,the state will be taking immediate steps to get units back online to help address the acute shortage of affordable housing in Honolulu. Though the city administration is moving forward with placing homeless individuals in housing through the Housing First program, I also introduced Resolution 15283 to urge the administration
to expand housing inventory options, increase the number of placements made through the Housing First program, and urge them to make the placement of homeless families a priority. Homelessness can have a disproportionate impact on children in homeless families,according to www. doorwaysva.org, including: • Homeless children are sick four times as often as their classmates, with high rates of acute and chronic illnesses; • H o m e l e s s c h i l d r e n suffer from emotional or behavioral problems that interfere with learning at almost three times the rate of other children, including episodes of anxiety, depression and/ or withdrawal; and • Homeless children who are able to attend school h a ve m o r e p r o b l e m s learning in school compared with other children. For example, homeless children are four times as likely to have developmental delays, twice aslikely to have learning disabilities, and twice as likely to repeat a grade, most often due to frequent absences and moves to new schools. By prioritizing homeless families for immediate housing this can begin the critical stabilization process for the children that is so necessary to their education and growth. Both of these resolutions are just two small tools we can use in a very large toolbox as solutions to the complex problem of homelessness and our affordable housing needs. I will continue to work with the city and our state partners to improve the quality of life for all of our residents.
MEN’S MARCH AGAINST VIOLENCE. Councilmember Elefante, Representative Ty Cullen, Councilmember Ron Menor, and Senator Clarence Nishihara joined hundreds of other supporters in the Men’s March Against Violence held on October 8. Participants walked from the State Capitol to Honolulu Hale. They are joined here by Aiea High School students.
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
By Nancy Bernal
Leo Days (Elvis in “Burn’n Love Waikiki) and Michelle Targonski (Miss Diamond Head USA)
Paul Brown
Get ready for another Smooth Jazz Concert coming to Honolulu in November! Apaulo Music Productions (Michael Paulo – Owner/Producer) presents a Smooth Jazz Concert featuring Saxman – Paul
Jordan Segundo and Lauren Potter (Actress in “Glee”) at The Best Buddies Fundraiser
Al Waterson, Wendy Abe and Mark Keala at The Malama Palama Gala Fundraiser for Palama Settlement
Jordan Segundo and Jed Madela at the “All Requests” Concert
Taylor, Guitarist – Paul Brown, Keyboardist - Gregg Karukas and Saxophonist – Michael Paulo on Saturday, November 21 at The Hawaii Convention Center – Liliu Theater, 1801 Kalakaua Avenue at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at TIX.
com or (951) 696-0184. For more information, go to ApauloMusicProductions. com •••• The Jed Madela “All Requests” Concert on October 23 was a huge
success for A.P. Productions, LLC. Jed Madela is one of the finest male vocalists from the Philippines with an impressive vocal range. His versatility for performing all types of music from Opera to Top Forty Hits to Oldies is very entertaining, and his warm engaging personality captures the audience. He is truly a superior artist that deserves recognition nationally a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y. Congratulations Arnold Pontillas on producing an excellent concert. •••• The Malama Palama Gala Fundraiser for Palama Settlement was held on October 17 at The Royal Hawaiian Hotel Monarch Room. Al Waterson emceed this prestigious event that honored Emme Tomimbang and Chief Francis Keala. Emme graciously accepted her award and Mark Keala (son of Chief Keala) accepted the award on behalf of his father. Congratulations to Executive Director – Wendy Abe on organizing this beautiful event. •••• The Best Buddies organization held their annual fundraiser on October 17 at Jimmy Buffett’s Restaurant and
Al Waterson and Emme Tomimbang at The Malama Palama Gala Fundraiser for Palama Settlement
presented a star-studded e n t e r t a i n m e n t l i n e - u p. Two nationally-acclaimed actresses participated – Kelly Hu and Lauren Potter (“Becky” from the television show “Glee”). Leo Days (“Elvis” from “Burn’n Love Waikiki”) with dancers Christina and Natalie, Jordan Segundo, Aidan James and Al Harrington performed – all for a very worthy cause. •••• The Miss Hawaii USA a n d M i s s H a w a i i Te e n USA Pageant is scheduled for November 22 at The Hawaii Convention Center. Participating in the Miss Division is Michelle Targonski (Miss Diamond Head USA). Michelle is also a professional dancer in the “Burn’n Love Waikiki” Show and has been busy doing appearances and interviews on the KHON 2 Morning Show, Hawaii Public Radio and for various publications. In addition, she is helping a great charity – The Fur-Angel Foundation by fostering puppies that need a forever home. 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)
Left to right: Christina Cowle (Dancer), Leo Days (Elvis in “Burn’n Love Waikiki”), Kelly Hu and Natalie Freeman (Dancer) at The Best Buddies Fundraiser
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 19
Hirono Legislation to Keep Manila VA Office Open Becomes Law WASHINGTON, D.C — President Obama has signed into law legislation that, amongst other things, keeps the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Regional Benefit Office in Manila open for business. U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) and Republican colleague Senator John Boozman (R-Arkansas) have included legislation in S.2082, a bill that extends a number of crucial health and benefit programs for veterans. In all, funding for the VA Regional Benefit Office in Manila along with seven federal programs aimed at assisting homeless veterans have been extended for another year. These programs would have expired on September 30, had the senators not acted.
“The Senate’s unanimous action is a key step to ensuring that critical veterans’ programs and offices will continue uninterrupted,” said Senator Hirono. “I’m proud to have worked with my Veterans’ Affairs Committee colleagues to ensure the passage of legislation I authored that will help hundreds of thousands of homeless veterans across the country each year, including hundreds in Hawaii, and keep the Manila VA Regional Benefit Office operational.” The Keeping Our Commitment to Overseas Veterans Act extends the authority to operate the VA Regional Benefit Office in Manila, which serves about 1 5 , 0 0 0 VA b e n e f i c i a r i e s residing in the Philippines and
some 30,000 Social Security beneficiaries across the AsiaPacific. The new law also sustains health care programs for
homeless veterans, provides grants and additional financial assistance for homeless veterans with special needs.
PAGE 20 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
Mrs. Hawaii Filipina By Angie DYTIOCO Santiago
Maryann Miguel was crowned Mrs. Hawaii Filipina by outgoing queen Novie Hartwell and UFCH President Maria Etrata.
Mrs. Hawaii Filipina 2014 Novie Hartwell, Ambassadress of Education Jocel Taguiran, 2nd Runner-up Ivory Carin, Mrs. Hawaii Filipina 2015 Maryann Miguel, 1st Runner-up Leilanie Tanaka, and Ambassadress of Culture Janeth Doruelo.
Novie Hartwell takes her final walk as Mrs. Hawaii Filipina 2014. Five lovely Mrs Hawaii Filipina contestants in their beautiful ternos.
Mrs. Hawaii Filipina 2015 wiith her supportive husband Lawrence Miguel.
Kauai residents Jimmy Iloreta, Edwin Navarro, Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho, and Lester Calipjo.
Froebel Garcia, Lei Acidera Juliano, Grace Go, Amy and Romy Dela Cruz, Salvador Obaldo, Alex Vergara, and Mayrose and Richard Borromeo.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 21
Miss Teen Hawaii Filipina Newly crowned Miss Teen Hawaii Filipina was ecstatic and all smiles as she received kisses and hugs from her biggest fans - her proud Mom and Dad!
Miss Teen Hawaii Filipina 2015 Ronnie Campman is surrounded by supportive family and friends.
UFCH Teen Ambassador Shannon Domingsil with parents Ana and Roger Domingsil and brother Shane.
First runner-up Rachel Dela Cruz and parents Amy and Romy Dela Cruz.
Cousins Tiffani Domingsil and Jennavie Ancheta sang a beautiful duet for the audience. Mrs. Hawaii 2015 Maryann Miguel, Miss Hawaii 2015 Chelsea Guzman, UFCH Teen Ambassador Shannon Domingsil, Miss Teen Hawaii Filipina 2014 Raizza Pulido, Miss Teen Hawaii Filipina 2015 Ronnie Campman, First Runner-up Rachel Dela Cruz, Miss Oahu Filipina 2015 Kylie Nishida, and UFCH President Maria Etrata.
PAGE 22 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015
CLASSIFIED ADS HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
JANITOR: Pay $7.75$ 9 . 0 0 / h r Looking for candidates with 1 year commercial experience. Buffing, waxing & cleaning floors. Shampooing & vacuuming carpets. Cleaning common areas. Must be able to lift 50-70 lbs. Call Staffing Partners at 945-9300.
Part time Positions
LABOR:
LITE INDUSTRIAL/ LABORERS - Warehouse - Driver Helper - Production Line - Food Prep/Dishwashers Pay $7.75 - $8.50/hr 6 mos of recent work experience needed. For interviews call our Ala Moana office 945-9300, Staffing Partners.
Caregivers Wanted
Looking to hire live-in caregivers to help elderly dementia patients with bathing, dressing, feeding, medication and housekeeping. Will train the right person if no experience. You must willing to relocate in california. Please call: Maricel Tinio
(510) 522.3812.
for rent ROOM FOR RENT in Kalihi Fort Shafter, Call 478-9688 or 218-2351. Room for rent
Waipahu 1 person working $500 a month, including utilities, street parking,
call 676-0759
WAIPAHU APT. FOR RENT 2 BEDS, 1 BATH,
1 PARKING, $800 PER MO. COIN LAUNDRY, CALL: 218-2061
House For Rent 3 Bedroom Available November 1
Call 230-5515 or 230-4522
3 to 4 days a week Hours are early morning to 12:00 and can start as early as 5:00 am. No heavy lifting required. Must be able to walk between hotels during the entire shift. Please call Lloyd at
808-585-8100 for more information
Help Wanted
Luggage coordinator work in Waikiki no heavy lifting, only count and check luggage.
Call 585-8100 ask for Lloyd.
BUSINESS OPPURTUNITY Start a commercial cleaning business. Low down payments, financing, training and an inintial customer base. Immediate opportunies in Hawaii.
Call Coverall today at 808.225.2610.
This offer is made by prospectus only. See Franchise Disclosure Documents for details.
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.
services WEDDINGS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Judge Graulty (retired) call 778-8510 to schedule.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 • PAGE 23