The SAMAHAN Filipino American Performance Arts & Education Center will hold its 37th Philippine Cultural Arts Festival at the Presidents Way Lawn on Park Boulevard, Balboa Park on Saturday, August 24 at 11:00 am to 6:00 pm and on Sunday, August 25 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is FREE. The Festival is made possible with grant funding from the Arts, Culture and Community Festivals (ACCF) of the City of San Diego, Dr Lolita D. Carter Endowment through the San Diego Foundation, the California Arts Council and individual donations.
Dubbed this year as SamaFest 2024, the festival is a family-oriented event focused on cultural heritage, entertainment and networking. Held at a strategic location in Balboa Park, the festival has attracted a large crowd of park visitors over the years. It has provided the San Diego locals as well as tourists the opportunity to learn about Philippine culture and performing arts through dances and music. The twoday event showcases presentations of exhilarating folk and ethnic dances of the different regions of the Philippines by SAMAHAN Arts’ graceful dancers accompanied with live music of the SAMAHAN Rondalla and Kulintang (gong) Music Ensembles. Every folk dance and ethnic ritual is performed in colorful, beautifully crafted traditional and ethnic attires that are particularly worn for each repertoire. Featured, as well, will be mainstream entertainment such as contemporary dances and vocals
this important local industry that bring us fresh, healthy fish.”
Chefs from some of San Diego’s best restaurants will participate, including:
Tara Monsod - Animae and Le Coq
Aidan Owens - Herb & Sea
Mariano Rayon - Herb & Wood
Carmine Lopez - Wolf in the Woods
Brad Wise - Trust Restaurant Group
Roberto Alcocer - Valle
Quinnton Austin - Louisiana
Purchase
Davin Waite - Shootz
Pablo Becker - Fish Guts
David Sim - Kingfisher
Chelsea Coleman, Ross Garcia, Dan Luong - Mabels Gone Fishing
Dante Romero - Lionshare / Two Ducks
Danny Romero - Ponyboy
Charlie Knowles &
Manny de Luz - Bica
Marcus Twiliger - Dockside Fish
Andrew Gerdes - Make Projects
The market will host a cash bar sponsored by Suntory, Campari, Tincup Whiskey, Ojo de Dios Mezcal and Topo Chico. Live musical entertainment will also be available from Sounds by Nikki, Good Gravy St Blues and The Barnacle Boys.
By Grace aGuinaldo-limBaG nall
a wide variety of locally caught seafood and our local fishermen are stewards of our natural resources. The fishing industry is integral to San Diego – just like we support small locally owned businesses and farms – we must support the local fisherman to preserve
Tickets are $100 and can be purchased online at: https://bit. ly/3V6ZLoh. Must be 21+ to purchase and attend. Each ticket includes one tasting from each chef.
This event supports the efforts of a U.S. Department of Agriculturefunded initiative for “Local Fish Global Flavor,” in partnership with the San Diego Fishermen’s Working Group,
Hundreds of people traveled from all over the United States and the Philippines to Houston, Texas to celebrate the National Conference of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) from July 16-20, 2024. Hurricane Beryl ravaged across Texas just the week before leaving an aftermath of flooded streets, fallen trees, damaged homes, broken billboards and power outages. Yet, it did not deter Filipinos to celebrate this year’s theme of “Encompassing Our Journeys.” The power was back on at the conference venues. The FANHS conference occurs biennially or every two years. The first conference started in Oregon on August 1988. There are now 44 chapters in the United States.
“FANHS is a communitybased historical society,” stated Dr. Dorothy Laigo Cordova, FANHS Founder and Executive Director.
“The National Office in Seattle contains oral histories, old photos, research, collections, and documents which are primary sources of
Filipino-American history.” FANHS started 42 years ago as project funded by the National Endowment of the Humanities. Fast forward to the 2024 FANHS National Conference in Houston, Texas and it marks the 20th gathering for many “kindred spirits” to meet as a bayanihan (community) and celebrate the four pillars: ROOTED, WATERED, WOVEN, and WISDOM that inspired the narratives shared to unite many generations. “What is Your Journey” interviews and highlights of the conference were captured by Alex Saenz, Jr., Alejandro Saenz, Jr., and Cybil Joy Pallugna-Saenz, as well as support staff and volunteers.
“We are a multi-generational family, representing all regions of the country, all ethnic and religious background, all genders, all sexual orientations, all skin colors, all immigration status, all abilities, all sizes, and more,” stated Dr. Kevin Nadal, FANHS National President (2022-2024) and Distinguished Professor, City University of New
York. The FANHS Houston Conference offered attendees opportunities for a National Aeronautics & Space Aviation (NASA) Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Tour and
FAHNS San Diego Chapter: Steve Yagyagan, Regina Yagyagan, Joe Mazares, Dr. Judy Patacsil, Herb Delute, Marc Pescadera, Grace Aguinaldo-Limbag Nall, Necolasa “Nickie” Tuthill-Delute and Jason Agapoa .(Courtesy photo)
The Pampered Pinay Lifestyle: Karangalan | Magkaisa
By Francine m aigue
One of my favorite events to participate in each year is the Sweetwater Union High School District’s Karangalan Magkaisa Conference, where Filipino students and their parents attend multiple workshops ranging from civic engagement to college prep, cultural arts performances and fashion shows, and, of course delicious food and fellowship. Students who demonstrate exemplary leadership and service, as well as outstanding academic achievement, also receive college scholarships.
Now in its 12th year, the conference was held at Sweetwater High School on April 18th and had a record attendance of over 500 students! This remarkable event and special tradition is made possible by our phenomenal Filipino SUHSD educators and administrators, who bless our community in countless ways throughout the year, through a wide range of initiatives.
This year, it was my great pleasure to host a workshop titled, “The Pinoy Project.” The workshop engaged students in discussions about our Filipino American history, current projects to connect our community to our roots and to one another, the importance of civic engagement, and, most importantly, their concerns and dreams as students and as promising young FilAm leaders.
These up-and-coming powerhouses are bright, compassionate, and eager to learn and serve our community. They carry themselves with Pinoy pride and want to represent their families and our community to their very best of their ability.
It was clear from our discussions that we must continue to empower our youth by sharing details of our Filipino and Filipino American history and nurture their talents and passions by connecting them to resources that allow them to wholeheartedly pursue and attain their dreams.
Here are some of their touching submissions...
Ako ay si: Joshua Dullano
Salamat po: Lolo at Lola
Gusto kong malaman: What was our Filipino community’s part in ending segregation, and what did they do to help Americans during the time of war?
Ang aking pangarap ay: Navy
Medical Officer
Ako ay si: Christina Camitan
Salamat po: Jonathan Camitan
Gusto kong malaman:
What organizations are doing to strengthen our Filipino community
Ang aking pangarap ay: go to a 4 year university, go into entertainment, be a motivational speaker, represent the Filipino community, make an anti-bullying campaign
Ako ay si: Vikky Binoya
Salamat po: my parents
Gusto kong malaman: My family tree
Ang aking pangarap ay: neonatal nurse
Ako ay si: Pastor Quime
Salamat po: magulang
Gusto kong malaman: Filipino history in the United States
Ang aking pangarap ay: to be in the NFL or be an athletic trainer
Ako ay si: Allison Puno
Salamat po: mom and dad
Gusto kong malaman:
How involved we were in American history
Ang aking pangarap ay: to get a master’s degree in nursing and travel around the world to help people
Ako ay si: Randy Bautista
Salamat po: Ama & Ina, for helping me become who I am
Gusto kong malaman: Who our Filipino heroes are--their actions, family tree
Ang aking pangarap ay: Navy, Medal of Honor, Make the history books
Ako ay si: Hannah Quisay
Salamat po: grandparents
Gusto kong malaman: More about the Filipino culture
Ang aking pangarap ay: become
a successful nurse, so I can take care of my future family and support them with their dreams
Ako ay si: Zackery Chambers
Salamat po: Coach Carolyne, family
Gusto kong malaman:
Family tree
Ang aking pangarap ay:
Olympic swimmer, water polo player
Ako ay si: Erin DeGuzman
Salamat po: my parents and friends
Gusto kong malaman:
Filipino history
Ang aking pangarap ay: become a pediatrician
Ako ay si: Abigail Viado
Salamat po: Mom & Dad
Gusto kong malaman:
How FILIPINOS were treated when they first came here, first generations
Ang aking pangarap ay: having a successful career
Ako ay si: Erin Abille
Salamat po: mga magulang, Lolo at Lola, Ginang, Leann, April Joy, Dayanalyne
Gusto kong malaman:
Family tree, our history in America
Ang aking pangarap ay: polyglot & traveler, doctor, Nobel Peace Prize, Grammy, be inspirational & influential, He for She advocate
Ako ay si: Oscar Rivera
Salamat po: Mom, teachers, mentors, personal inspirations, KAMP, and SUHI
Gusto kong malaman: our historical background the struggles
Ang aking pangarap ay: become a nurse or become an educator working to improve people’s lives
Whose mentorship and support are you grateful for, my friends? What part of our culture and community would you like to know more about? What are your dreams for you, your family, and our Filipino community?
Event Honors Hmong Sacrifice During America’s Secret War
By Peter Schurmann/emS
MARYSVILLE, CA -- An event
honoring Hmong veterans of the American Secret War in Laos was held Saturday in Marysville, about 40 miles north of Sacramento. Dozens of surviving veterans, alongside community activists and local dignitaries were on hand.
The event is part of a decadeslong effort to gain recognition for the Hmong community’s sacrifice and their place in this little-known piece of American history.
“Thousands died fleeing Laos on May 14,” noted longtime community advocate Steve Ly. “May 15 was the day they became new Americans,” he continued.
Ly served as mayor of Elk Grove, south of Sacramento, between 20162020 and was the country’s first ethnic Hmong to serve in that position.
Between 35,000-40,000 Hmong were killed in a covert CIA operation intended to thwart communist forces during the height of fighting in Vietnam. The operation ran through both the Johnson and Nixon administrations and resulted in almost 2 million tons of ordinance dropped on both sides of the Vietnam-Laos border, despite the latter being a neutral country. Congress was never informed.
A ceasefire agreement was reached in 1973 and two years later the communist Pathet Lao took control of Laos. Thousands fled the country in the ensuing years, many arriving in America as refugees.
Yet their contributions to the American war effort continue to go largely unrecognized.
Hmong veterans, including those in attendance Saturday, are still not acknowledged by the federal government and do not receive VA benefits.
“Every Hmong soldier that fought and died and was wounded represents an American soldier that didn’t have to go through that injury or death,” said Yuba County Supervisor Seth Fuhrer, who delivered a proclamation on behalf of the county recognizing May 15 as Hmong-Lao Veterans Day.
California is home to the US’s largest Hmong population, at roughly 95,000, with communities concentrated up and down the Central and San Joaquin valleys. Wisconsin, Minnesota and more recently Alaska and some southern states are also home to large Hmong populations.
Saturday’s event, Honoring the Forgotten Heroes, was held at Veterans Park in Marysville, which welcomed one of the earliest waves of Hmong arrivals to the US in the late 1970s and early 80s. A large portrait of the late Gen. Vang Pao, who was instrumental in helping the CIA recruit Hmong fighters, adorns the stage behind the lectern.
The event was organized by the non-profit Sacramento Hmong American Resources and Education (SHARE) and the Yuba-Sutter Hmong American Association.
“Many people we talk to still don’t know who the Hmong are,” said SHARE President Marie Vue. “They still don’t know why we’re here. They think we’re here as immigrants. We’re actually refugees. And they don’t understand the difference.”
Vue continued, “That’s what we’re trying to get out there. This is who we are.”
Part of that effort involves incorporation of the Hmong
experience into the public-school curricula for California high schools, an effort that got underway more than 20 years ago after the CIA declassified documents pertaining to the war.
In 2003 state lawmakers approved AB 78 recommending inclusion of the Secret War in social studies textbooks. It took until 2018 for the recommendations to be added to the state’s education codes. Yet today there is scant mention of this history in most classrooms.
“We don’t need a whole chapter,” stressed Kevin Xiong, president of the Hmong American Association and a leader in the effort pushing for Hmong inclusion in California classrooms. “We need a small lesson on who these people are. Why are they here.”
He added, “We were part of the war. We made sacrifices. We are part of you. Just recognize us,” he said.
Rob Gregor is the Yuba County Superintendent of Schools and has worked in education for more than three decades, during which time he hired the county’s first Hmong administrator who would go on to become Yuba County’s first Hmong principal.
Surviving Hmong veterans of America’s Secret War in Laos, which claimed between 35,000-40,000 lives, gathered for the May 18 event in Marysville, California commemorating Hmong-Lao Veterans Day. (Credit: Peter Schurmann)
Mission Valley for six years. The Festival, renamed Philippine Cultural Arts Festival, was revived and moved to an outdoor location in Balboa Park in 1996. It has been a showcase for Philippine performing arts in Southern California for more than thirty years.
The cultural and educational programs of SAMAHAN Arts are funded in part with grants from the California Arts Council, The San Diego Foundation –Dr. Lolita Diñoso Carter Endowment, and with individual donations.
Fast forward, currently the Samahan Philippine Dance company is available for hire to highlight any of your special occassions, be it wedding,
debutante ball, community events, school presentations etc. It also offers classes on various philippine cultural dances. Anyone who is interested to learn banduria/ native wind or string instruments for all ages, classes are also available. Do not hesitate to contact Reina Chiong, president of Samahan at (619) 917-9012 for details or schedule of classes and performance.
Chula Vista Expands Community Shuttle Service to All Adults
Free and low-cost rides available in the City’s Northwest
CHULA VISTA, CA - Local, state, and private sector leaders gathered at Chula Vista City Hall on Tuesday to announce an expansion of the City’s community shuttle program to all adults in the City’s Northwest area. Adults 18 to 54 years old are now invited to ride the Chula Vista Community Shuttle for just $2 per trip, and those 55 years and older will continue to ride for free. Children may ride with an adult.
Riders can request door-todoor service via the Circuit app or by calling (646) 504-3733. The service area runs approximately from the Sweetwater River to the north, to the bayfront on the west, to 805/Hilltop Drive to the east and L Street to the south. The shuttle operates Monday – Friday from 7 am to 7 pm.
and Homeless Services Stacey Kurz said the rideshare opportunities are a wonderful convenience for many people. “With the expansion, the Chula Vista Community Shuttle further builds on that opportunity by offering free, and now greatly discounted rides, for those needing to shop, attend doctor’s visits or even enjoy a day on the town,” said Kurz, whose department oversees the program.
The City also announced the launch of a marketing campaign at the news conference to inform the public of the greatly discounted service. From highlighting thriving restaurants on downtown Third Avenue to grocery shopping options and healthcare visits, the City hopes to encourage more people to use the door-to-door service.
Policy & Innovation Center, San Diego Food System Alliance, and California Sea Grant. Sponsors include the Port of San Diego. For more information about the San Diego Fishermen’s Working Group, visit https://www.sandiegofishermen.
com. ABOUT SAN DIEGO FISHERMEN’S WORKING GROUP
The San Diego Fishermen's Working Group is a nonprofit organization comprised of fishermen from the ports of San Diego who harvest approximately 65 different species of local fish and crustaceans. Its mission is to raise awareness, foster appreciation, and drive support for San Diego’s commercial fishing community
by elevating the relationship between local consumers and fishermen. ABOUT PUFFER MALARKEY Puffer Malarkey Collective is a San Diego-based restaurant group founded by Brian Malarkey and Christopher Puffer. Working side-by-side for over a decade, the duo launched the original Searsucker and Herringbone venues, building the Fabric of Social Dining restaurant group, which they sold to Hakkasan in 2012. Since then, we’ve been not-so-quietly building their empire here in Southern California, starting with the award-winning Herb & Wood in 2016. Proven fine-dining operators, their portfolio has expanded to include Herb & Sea in Encinitas, ANIMAE in Downtown San Diego, Le Coq in La Jolla, and Herb & Ranch in Orange County. For more information, visit https://puffermalarkeycollective. com/.
ABOUT POLICY & INNOVATION CENTER
The San Diego Regional Policy & Innovation Center (PIC) is a 501C3 organization that exists to conduct research and policy analysis and help solve the region’s biggest problems. PIC is facilitating a USDA-funded initiative to provide greater local commercial opportunities for San Diego fishermen. Its founding partners include the San Diego Foundation, the County of San Diego, and the world’s leading think tank – The Brookings Institution. Over the next few years, PIC will continue building strong and diverse partnerships among the leaders of the region; use equity-centered research to identify the region’s biggest needs, and the best opportunities for change, and secure funding for potential solutions; challenge systemic inequities; and develop a pipeline of potential scalable projects and pilots that improve the lives of San Diegans. For more information, visit https:// www.sdrpic.org/.
Chula Vista Mayor John McCann encouraged community members to take advantage of the Community Shuttle’s invaluable services. “It’s important that community members use this wonderful amenity,” McCann said. “This shuttle service expansion will be instrumental in the City’s innovative future, benefiting community members and our local economy.”
Chula Vista Director of Housing
The City launched the shuttle service in 2022 to create a cleaner, more sustainable community. The shuttle service operates an allelectric powered fleet, including ADA-accessible vehicles.
About 50,000 riders have taken advantage of the program over the past two years, with an average of 2,500 riders each month. With the expansion to those younger than 55 years of age, the City hopes to generate enough revenue to
continue operations well beyond the expiration of grant funding. The program is funded by a $1 million grant from the local nonprofit Community Congregational Development Corp. and a $1.5 million grant from Clean Mobility Options (CMO). CMO is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-andTrade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment — particularly in under-served communities, and California Energy Commission’s Clean Transportation Program, which is investing more than $1 billion to accelerate the deployment of zero-emission transportation infrastructure and support instate manufacturing andworkforce training and development.
Circuit is a 100% electric, on-demand first- and last-mile microtransit service that helps riders connect to transit and make short-distance trips in their community. Circuit’s goal is to make short-range transportation easier, greener, cheaper, and more accessible, and has operated locally in San Diegosince 2016.
Julie Anne San Jose announces new fandom name and color
MANILA -- Julie Anne San Jose
just announced her new fandom name and official color in an Instagram Reel.
Asia’s Limitless Star said in the video that her fans have been requesting for a unique fandom name that would represent both the longtime and new supporters.
“So kwento ko lang, a little story time. Back in my teens, I also called my supporters ‘Adiks’ because of how crazy they were on everything. However, para sa akin, medyo vague lang ‘yung name na ito,” Julie said.
“I realized maybe it's time to go for something more personal because of course, special kayo sa akin," she added.
The singer and actress then took in fans’ suggestions like Kahel, JUWels, and Symphonies.
“And after so much thought, na by the way, sobrang nahirapan ako, I've decided to go with 3-2-1, drumroll… JAmantes!” Julie Anne said.
“I personally chose this fandom name too, because diamonds are known to be precious and valuable gemstones, like how you guys are precious to me too,” she added.
JAs for the official fandom color, she decided on fire orange.
“Sakto kasi favorite ko ‘yung orange. And fire, nagliliyab,
naglalagablab parang magmamahal ko sa inyo,” she said.
The announcement is also on the 12th year anniversary since Julie Anne released her self-titled album which was a Certified Diamond Record.
“Of course, hindi po mangyayari ‘yon kung hindi po dahil as inyong pagmamahal at walang sawang suporta,” she said. “I hope you love the name as much as I do,” she added. “Thank you so much for all your support, and I hope you continue to support my upcoming projects. And I'm so excited, very excited, on this new journey with all of you. I love you guys.”
Before ending the video, Julie Anne said, “Ay wait, may pahabol
pala. Official lightstick din daw,” with a teasing smile.
Julie Anne is currently in California for the Sparkle World Tour.
Also part of the lineup are Rayver Cruz, Alden Richards, Isko Moreno, AiAi Delas Alas, and Boobay. They performed at the City National Grove of Anaheim in Anaheim City on August 9 and at the South San Francisco High School Auditorium in San Francisco City on August 10.
Julie Anne appeared as Katy Dela Cruz, the Queen of Vaudeville, on “Pulang Araw” in July.
The artist and her fellow “The Voice” judge Stell of SB19 also had a successful two-night concert at the New Frontier Theater last month. (MNS)
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Jodi Sta. Maria says 'Lavender
MANILA -- Actress Jodi Sta.
Maria expressed her excitement over her upcoming series "Lavender Fields," which will join the Primetime Bida lineup beginning this September.
Sta. Maria shared her happiness watching the drama's official trailer released online by show producer Dreamscape Entertainment.
The 2022 Asian Academy Creative Awards’ Best Actress boasted that aside from complex tale of love, duality and redemption, one of the drama's strengths is its stellar cast.
"It's a complex love story as well, I'd say it's a redemption story too. So ang daming nangyayari. Isa 'yon sa magiging strength I believe ng 'Lavender Fields' siyempre contrary to what others believe na 'ah ano lang 'yan typical revenge story.' But no, it's not. Of course, it's from Dreamscape Entertainment. I mean this is you know a credible source of beautiful seryes," Sta. Maria said.
"Also the cast, stellar, superb cast 'yung makakasama. So isa rin 'yon sa strength ng 'Lavender Fields' kasi napakahuhusay ng mga aktor, hindi ba? Powerhouse talaga," Sta. Maria added.
Sta. Maria was all smile when she shared how she always looks forward to go to set to work with her co-stars.
Joining Sta. Maria in the drama are Jericho Rosales, Janine Gutierrez, Jolina Magdangal and Maricel Soriano. Edu Manzano, and Albert Martinez. Young stars Krystal Mejes, Marc Santiago, Jana Agoncillo and Miguel Vergara are
also part of the show. "I always look forward to the set knowing that I'm working with them. I work with Inay (Soriano) before. I worked with Echo (Rosales) that was like ages ako. And it's my first time working with Janine (Gutierrez.). I'm also working with Tito Edu, working with Albert Martinez, Kuya A, na ang sarap-sarap lang to be working with them. Kasi napaka-professional. Parang minsan, pwedeng huwag na
Maris Racal's 'Sunshine'
to
premiere in Toronto International Film Festival
MANILA -- Kapamilya actress Maris Racal's upcoming film "Sunshine" will have its world premiere at the 49th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
According to a release, "Sunshine" is included in the festival's Centrepiece section along with 43 titles from countries
like Algeria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, France, Germany, Indonesia, Nigeria, Panama, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, and USA.
The Centrepiece section "honors and celebrates global cinematic achievements, inviting audiences to
immerse themselves in a dynamic array of contemporary films."
"The program is a reflection of TIFF’s commitment to providing an elevated platform for international cinema, acclaimed titles from festivals around the globe, highly anticipated premieres from Canadian and international talents, and the latest work of influential filmmaking luminaries," it added.
Director Antoinette Jadaone expressed her gratitude for the film's new milestone.
"It’s out!!!! SUNSHINE’s world premiere is at TIFF (Centrepiece section) ... sorry na ma first time ko ... thank you everybody who helped me develop and make this," Jadaone said.
The 49th Toronto International Film Festival will be held from September 5 to 15.
"Sunshine" follows the story of a young gymnast who discovers she is pregnant on the week of the national team tryouts. On her way to a seller of illegal abortion drugs, she meets "a mysterious girl who eerily talks and thinks like her."
(MNS)
What's in store for Ivana Alawi after ‘Batang Quiapo’?
MANILA -- After her trending exit from the hit Kapamilya series “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo”, actress Ivana Alawi reveals she still can’t move on with the character she portrayed in the top-rating primetime drama.
Alawi played the role of Bubbles, one of the leading ladies of Tanggol (played by Coco Martin).
“Hindi pa,” she said when asked if she already moved on with her character.
According to Alawi, she still feels the impact of her character.
“Alam mo kahit saan ako magpunta, lahat sila isa ang tanong, ‘Bakit wala ka na?’ Kahit magpunta lang ako sa convinient store. Grabe ‘yung impact and doon ako nalulungkot kasi naalala ko na naman,” she said.
Although she has left the series, the actress asked her fans to continue their support of the program.
“Sana po ay patuloy niyo pa rin na suportahan ang ‘Batang Quiapo.’
Everything has come to an end and ‘yung sa akin talaga is because of work. Kung wala naman talaga akong work, kaya kong gawin ‘yun ng 10 years, 20 years. I really love Bubbles and I really love ‘Batang Quiapo’.”
Aside from her
she
stint in “Batang Quiapo” the actress confirmed that she is about to do another series. “Movie and siyempre may teleserye,” she said. As she moves forward with another project, the actress said
ako sumali, papanoorin ko na lang kayo, kasi ang galing. Ang galing parang there's such a joy to watch," Sta. Maria said. Sta. Maria will once again prove her versatility as she is also set to do action scenes for the first time in "Lavender Fields."
The Kapamilya actress admitted that doing action scenes is not easy, stressing that it requires a lot of preparation and training.(MNS)
“’Operation Brotherhood’ built the hospital I was born in, so I always have a special fondness for their members, and a deep sadness when they pass. But I am grateful for the enduring friendship between the Filipino and Lao communities, and hope we all uphold that legacy in the generations to come.”
In 1954, the Philippines’ Junior Chamber of Commerce organized a group of medical professionals to aid the State of Vietnam, which had just finished the First Indochinese War. Vietnam was then beginning to feel the effects of the Northern refugee’s population, who were arriving in to the South as a result of Operation Exodus and Operation Passage to Freedom.
Under the name “Operation Brotherhood” (OB), the Philippines guided by President Ramon Magsaysay, worked with the Vietnamese people to provide medical care and provisions needed for survival. The first group of Filipinos arrived in October 1954. In 1955, Operation Brotherhood was selected as a Junior Chamber International project, and Jaycees from 18 countries as well as private and governmental organizations and individuals contributed money and supplies for the relief effort. By the time the members of Operation Brotherhood left the Republic of Vietnam (RVN) in December 1967, it was estimated they had treated nearly 750,000 people. Our old homeland, the Philippines, continued to provide aid to the RVN, eventually committing, in 1966, a 2,000-person task force to conduct a civic action campaign in the country.
I say that the methods of assistance to the developing nations of Southeast Asia have continued to be diversified ever since the ending of colonial rule. On this particular edition of my column, we focus on a Filipino endeavor to send doctors and nurses to help the numerous refugees fleeing to the southern half of Vietnam as the French disengagement began and the seventeenth parallel became for all practical purposes, a political demarcation line in 1954.
Oscar J. Arellano, a Filipino architect and president of the Manila chapter of the Junior Chamber of Commerce (commonly called the Jaycees), actually conceived of a private humanitarian project to be sponsored and financed by the Filipino Jaycees. A friend of then President Ramon Magsaysay, Arellano received the unofficial endorsement of the Philippine government which had not yet diplomatically recognized what essentially became the Republic of Vietnam. Because of Magsaysay’s support, Ngo Dinh Diem approved the undertaking. Capitalizing on the view that Asians would support fellow Asians, Operation Brotherhood expanded to become a “joint enterprise involving all the Jaycees of Asia,” thereby. There is no doubt about it that Operation Brotherhood was genuinely a Filipino organization founded in the 50’s to help meet the medical and relief needs of the tens of thousands of refugees and wounded who were flooding from unliberated areas of Vietnam into crowded Saigon and Cholon. In fact, Operation Brotherhood (OB) was a recipient of Asia’s premier prize and highest honor - Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) - in 1958 in acknowledgement of the spirit of service to other peoples in a time of need, with which it was brought about and has carried forward on, as well as the international amity it has fostered in Vietnam.
As one example of an activity
that has been remarkably effective in reaching the rural population of Southeast Asia, you – my dear folks – might be interested in some details of the “Village Health Program” in Laos.
Through a chain of the Agency for International Development (AID) – OB supported dispensaries in the rural areas, medical assistance to refugees in northern Laos, and operation of emergency facilities in newly-liberated areas, OB also presented badly needed medical care and instruction in hygiene to a broad cross section of the Laos population. They found out that members of a family will travel more than 30 miles for medicines for a sick person; thus, OB’s help and influence reaches far out well into the countryside, well beyond the areas considered secure for US-AID or for the Lao government.
Some statistics may immediately serve to define the scale of this program: Support is given to 140 hospitals and dispensaries; 150,000 patients are served each month; and in their last fiscal year alone, 268 local medics were trained.
As I have stated earlier above, the first team of seven doctors and three nurses was flown to Saigon aboard a Philippine Red Cross plane in October of 1954. Before closing their work in Vietnam in December 1956, Operation Brotherhood teams had treated some 730,000 persons. Initially, a project of the Philippine Junior Chamber of Commerce, Operation Brotherhood was immediately taken up by the other Asian Jaycees and later was selected as the Junior Chamber international project for 1965. The Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) Board of Trustees makes particular reference to those men and women who have actively participated in this work. The Board of Trustees also recognizes, by extension the Operation Brotherhood’s civic sponsor and all of those others in many countries who have rallied to its support.
As indicated earlier above, too - the very first Ramon Magsaysay Award for Peace and International Understanding was given to Operation Brotherhood in acknowledgement of “the spirit of service to with peoples in a time of need, with what it was conceived and has been carried forward, as well as the international amity it has fostered.”
To best sum it all up on the narrative of Operation Brotherhood – Fr. Miguel Bernard’s monumental 562-page history “Adventure in Vietnam: The Story of Operation Brotherhood 1954-1957” is a multipage insert of photographs. In all, a collage of 199 black and white prints lays out a two-year panorama when close to a million Vietnamese fled across the 17th parallel that divided North Vietnam from South Vietnam in the wake of the Communist take over of the North in 1954 by Ho Chi Minh’s guerrillas. France had lost its Indochinese possessions (Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia) and the world saw the emergence of newly-decolonized countries –South Vietnam among them.
Northern refugees flooded into southern relocation centers by the many thousands. The photos show medical clinics, tents, villages teeming with people bearing that dispossessed look of the lost, the hungry and the sick. Their haven was not exactly the ideal refuge—its new government was sorely inadequate to cope with the sudden influx. Moreover, it was itself battling the same Communist insurgency within its borders that defeated the French in the north. This was the setting in October 1954 - (FYI: From a personal reflection, yours truly was 7 years old then not knowing that 12 years later in the future – I, too will be serving in Vietnam with
the United States Navy) - when Operation Brotherhood dispatched its first team of medical volunteers from our beloved old homeland – the Philippines.
Shown among the photos are the Filipino organizers of the project, prominent businessmen, legislators, and the prime movers – members of the Philippine Junior Chamber or Jaycees. Of course, there’s Oscar Arellano, who as a high-ranking officer of the world-wide network of Jaycee chapters, had visited Saigon and saw for himself the woeful plight of the refugees. He rallied the Philippine Jaycees to mount an emergency relief mission. Then he made the rounds of the international Jaycee chapters, formally getting the organization to adopt the relief assignment as its world project. In quick time, supplies, personnel, and cash donations poured in. In one of the photos, we see Arellano standing in front of a stack of wooden crates in Saigon, a shipment from South Korea. And there facing him is Melgre O. Granada (OB Pioneer), looking the youthful 20-year-old that he was then. There is another picture of him with former South Vietnamese President Ngo Dinh Diem, with former Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay and with former Laos Prime Minister Souvanna Phouma.
So, what is a teen-aged looking guy doing, rubbing elbows with these Asian leaders?
Arellano had appointed Granada to manage OB Vietnam in 1954, and when it ended its mission there, to lead OB Laos in 1957.
Oscar Arellano was the visionary; Melgre O. Granada, the executioner of those visions!
When for example, Arellano outlined a program to go beyond curative, emergency health care intervention towards some
sustainable, lasting projects to lift the Vietnamese from diseases, he envisioned social and economic initiatives. It fell upon Granada to marshal the skills of nutritionists, agriculturists, social workers toward those ends. Vaccination campaigns coordinated with distribution of sewing machines and dispersal of “tilapia” fish fingerlings.
In Vietnam, youth had its embarrassments, too…Ha-ha-ha-ha!
Fr. Bernard recounts that “many persons would go to the OB Headquarters in Saigon and ask to see the ‘top official’ or ‘project manager.’ Some of these were important visitors from foreign countries. A ludicrous situation would sometime arise when they found out that the ‘top official’ of our internationally-supported operation was a 19-year-old Filipino boy in a T-shirt!”
Ha-ha-ha-ha!
(FYI: Actually, Granada was already in his early twenties by then!)
Recalling later those Saigon days, Granada wrote in 2010: “There were four of us who manned our headquarters 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 25 ‘Casseloup Loubat’ (later Thap Tu or Red Cross in Vietnamese). ‘Vitoy’ (Naranjo), Jose Alejo, Mart Martell, Rene Maglaya…shared the same room with me, with our telephones beside us at all times to respond to any emergency from any of our 12 stations all over South Vietnam. Mart reminds me that we were young then and never minded threats to life and limb…We could not date any of our female companions and because of Saigon was a war zone it was unhealthy to have any serious affairs outside of the premises. We fell in love with our OB Vietnam colleagues but we had to wait until we returned to the Philippines to do
Jesse T. Reyes Filipino Potpourri
any serious courting.”
During the 25 months of OB Vietnam, Granada, as field coordinator, had to contend with a multitude of challenges posed by an extraordinary effort. Volunteers arrived from various countries – 21 from Taiwan, 3 from France, 4 from Japan, 3 from Hong Kong, 5 from Singapore and Malaysia, 3 from Thailand and 2 from the U.S. of A.
The largest contingent were 195 Filipinos! From the Philippines were physicians, nurses, mechanics, social workers, nutritionists, agriculturists and fishery experts, pharmacists, architects, public health technicians and administrators. Tons of medical equipment and supplies, food, clothing and other relief goods arrived in Vietnam from different parts of the world.
Volunteers lived and worked together, in claustrophobic closeness, spread out across the provinces, some in remote places, struggling against difficult languages and cultures. Burdensome logistics and irksome government bureaucracy hampered operations. There were casualties – Three lost their lives when their boat capsized in the Waico River while on their way to a refugee camp in Tay Ninh province: Our “kababayans”- Dr. Jose Alejo and nurse Adela Pimentel - and Yvonne Ocampo, a VietnameseFilipino interpreter.
(FYI: Incidentally, my latelamented first cousin Ted Favor, a U.S. Navy Seabee was a 16 December 1969 casualty, too in the northern most part of the coastal coast province of Quang Namhis name is now inscribed in Panel 15W/Line 63 of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. - Just saying in perspective).
The prospect of such tragedies was ever present because government security against insurgents was not always guaranteed. The country, in essence, was a war zone. Granada noted in one of his letters that “because the Filipino people were poor and could not give such material or financial aid as other countries, their contribution of personal service was often undervalued…yet the expenditure of human energy and dedication sometimes even unto death, can be as great a contribution, even if it is not easily quantifiable.”
When the Lao Jaycees and the Laos Prime Minister invited OB to transfer its operations there in 1956 after Vietnam, Granada, still in his 20s, was again the point man in handling the transition.
In some ways, the setting mirrored Vietnam with field teams in remote provinces, volunteers communally living under one roof in spartan conditions, genuinely a country in civil war duress. As onsite project manager for three years, Granada’s new watch covered some 100 volunteers each year (from 1957 to 1975, about 450 OB Filipinos served in Laos, mostly on two-year contracts). When it left in 1975, forced out by a new Communists government who commanded all foreign aid agencies to leave, OB had also employed some 2,000 Lao in its work.
Tianethone Chantharasy, an officer of the Lao Jaycees said that he was “impressed by Melgre O. Granada’s calm, integrity, discipline, dignity and positive attitude. He overcame obstacles and hurdles on many occasions as Laos was then thrown into a period of political
turmoil and armed conflicts in areas where many of our OB teams were operating.”
A Filipino by the name of Rod Severino who arrived in Laos in 1959 recalled “He was like a father in Laos, although he was not much older than I. In fact, what I remember most about Mel was his youth. I also aspired to be like him – someone holding such great responsibilities at such a young age. I remember him playing a mean game of tennis before I ever so much as wielded a racquet. I also remember his fluency in French, which was more facile than his Lao – or Tagalog! (He was Illongo!) I aspired to be like him – in tennis, in French, in administrative skills, at none of which I truly excelled – unlike him.”
After OB Laos in 1961, Granada worked with Bangkok-based companies - Fristan Engineering Company and Time Engineering Company.
Back in the Philippines, he joined the Presidential Economic Staff of President Ferdinand Marcos, working under Executive Secretary Alejandro Melchor. He was then assigned to the Office of Makati Mayor Nemesio Yabut as Assistant for Economic Development. Among his projects was the funding of the Makati Medical Center and the Makati Polytechnic College (now the University of Makati).
In his later years, he ventured into real estate, wellness centers and rehabilitation classes.
Commenting on his final Mayor Yabut service in 1986, he noted “(My) services with the government was terminated at the behest of the people of then President Corazon Aquino who considered those who worked under the administration of President Marcos as tools of the dictatorship.”
Operation Brotherhood (OB) Vietnam and OB Laos pioneer Melgre O. Granada was 82 when he died at the National Kidneys and Transplant Center in Manila on 21 October 2013.
As the first and only project manager to lead both programs, he absolutely achieved a distinction that will remain unique in history.
In conclusion, I say that the legacy of Operation Brotherhood far outlived those who received the services they selflessly provided. It became a world-wide inspiration so much so that the American physician who worked in Southeast Asia at the outset of American involvement in the Vietnam War - Dr. Tom Dooley - created the American and Japanese Peace Corps programs based on the framework of Filipino advocacy.
I do believe that Operation Brotherhood should be in our Philippine (and American, as well) history books to show the outstanding example it initiated that truly became an international effort to help hundreds of thousands of our fellow men and women in dire situations.
Notwithstanding, this is something that all freedom-loving folks should be made aware of –our “kababayans”- the Filipinos’ - immense contribution to the betterment of the whole world. Indeed, it is definitely a story to share: The chronicle of a remarkable Asian people – the Philippines – and its global partnerships – a nation that is truly a friend to all, enemy to none. Mabuhay!
Filipino doctors and nurses examining a patient of Operation Brotherhood in Vietnam circa 1956.
In 1955, U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower is shown presenting Operation Brotherhood's initiatives to the world.
Help Wanted / For Rent / For Sale
Spiritual Life
Rediscovering our spiritual roots
When did you ever feel the presence of God in your life? How did you know about God? Do you have a personal relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ? These are some of the questions that have been asked by many of my friends when conversations veered towards the spiritual. These are soul-searching questions and I often took time to answer them if not evade them altogether.
Spiritual experiences are purely individual. They greatly depend on your upbringing, on your environment, and on the people you associate with. I grew up in a Christian environment.
My father was one of the first convert to Protestantism in my hometown. The Holy Bible was the only book I saw that he read every day. As the Justice of the Peace, his judgment was greatly influenced by the Word of God. It was from him that I first heard about the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would like others do to you.” To him this was an ever encompassing rule that should guide your attitude and behavior towards others, where ever you are and with whoever you are with.
My mother was a graduate of a mission school of nursing, hence, her services as a Nurse were enhanced by her knowledge of Scriptures. Her love for children
Aurora S. Cudal-Rivera
My Personal Testimony
was inspired by what Jesus did, “let the children come to me and forbid them not for such is the Kingdom of Heaven.” She devoted so much time to help the poor, the widows and the marginalized to the extent that she considered that serving others was her religion.
My parents were not only readers or listeners of the Word. They are doers of the Word. As I ponder on the topic I’ve chosen to write about in this column today, Rediscovering Our Spiritual Roots, I am awed by the influenced exerted by my upbringing. This was further enhanced by going to church every Sunday, attending Bible studies, and associating with people whose lives are centered on the Word of God.
At this stage of my life, I am more deeply aware of God’s presence as I make decisions, as I interact with others, and as
I face the challenges of aging. I am thankful to God for His manifold blessings. I may not be rich financially, but I feel so rich because God provides. God cares. God never fails.
I would like to share this prayer that was sent to me by a friend, “God of life and love, pour forth Your Spirit to inspire me with Your words of compassion, forgiveness and love. Stir in me a desire to renew my faith and deepen my relationship with Jesus, your son. Open my heart to hear and live Your Gospel message. Strengthen me to be a sharer of the Good news in words and witness proclaiming your all-inclusive love, mercy and grace in all that I do. Amen.
(Prayer of Evangelizers, Diocese of Springfield, MA)
“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 34:1 (NRSV)
Greetings in the Lord!
Today is the 19th Sunday in Ordinary time. I would like to continue my reflections on the meaning of discipleship as a loving response to the invitation of Jesus to follow him and eventually be in communion with him with the Father and the Holy Spirit. I hope you would not consider it redundant, but I have to repeat once more that this process truly demands deep knowledge of who Jesus is, his teachings and his mission. Such knowledge is so important because the demands of discipleship would be truly burdensome for those who do not accept the totality of the nature of Jesus, but truly joyful only for those know deeply know him. Self-denial and bearing one’s cross in order to follow Jesus more dearly would be a burden for non believers, but indeed a joyful experience for those who deeply believe in Him.
Our gospel this Sunday is a continuation of the message of the gospel last Sunday which dealt with the need for us to develop the spirit of evangelical poverty that constitutes essentially in an orientation of detachment from material possessions. I my homily last Sunday, I mentioned that material possessions are important in our human existence. In fact material possessions influence greatly our cultural mentality, our world view and even our daily moral decisions that affect the way we live our faith. However, for a believer in Jesus and a disciple who wish to follow Jesus more closely material possessions are important but not really essential in life and not necessary for one’s existence. This can only happen through a long process of selfdenial, honest detachment and deep faith that comes from a long process
of conversion.
This long process of conversion leads into the consciousness of a more concrete way of responding to the invitation of Jesus to follow him and become his disciple. This response is known as stewardship which is the main message of the gospel reading this Sunday. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the United States has defined this response in stages. The first of these stages is the humble acceptance that everything that we are, everything that we possess comes from God. This reality we must acknowledge and truly be grateful to God. For this reason a disciple should always be a grateful person and only those who are humble could truly be grateful. The second stage in this response to the invitation of Jesus is the acceptance of how precious are the gifts that we have. They are unique and different in each person so that we have to respect the gifts of others in as much as we expect to respect our own gifts. Consequently we have to develop our gifts to the full as the development of such is expected by God so that we may be able to return joyfully the same gifts to God, the giver of the gifts that we have. This is the third stage of the process of stewardship. This
should remind us of the parable of the talents in one of the gospels. The master was truly pleased with the return of the steward who earned more and so displeased with the one who simply hid his talents in the ground. Notice the more tasks that the master entrusted to responsible steward.
The final stage in discipleship is the exercise in generosity that is expected of the disciple. Our act of returning the gifts to God could be concretely exercised when we share our talents with others. In fact the return of the developed gifts need not be directed to God himself but even institutions, such as our parish community and other charitable entities and especially to those who are truly in need. This is where the gospel regarding how to be truly a good neighbor to others comes into our consciousness. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus answered the lawyer that the good neighbor is the one who showed more compassion on the person robbed and left behind almost dead on the road.
The final note that the gospel reminds us to consider is the fact that the reckoning will happen when the master returns, but the time and manner of his return is never known so that the need for vigilance and constant preparedness is expected of the discipleship. “Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so. Truly, I say to you, the master will put the servant in charge of all his property.” In this year of faith, let us begin to acknowledge the greatest gift that we received from God, namely, faith. Let us develop it fully, return it to God joyfully and share it with others generously.
So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.
(Psalm 46:2)
Recently as I was waiting to board a plane, I felt a little twinge of anxiety. I looked tentatively at the other passengers at the gate, wondering if any posed a threat. I found myself reading their faces, looking at their carry-on bags and speculating if anything dangerous might have slipped through.
From Whom All Blessings Flow We will
Danny
not fear
Hernaez
You see, the horrific events of previous months were heavy on my heart. My mind had been filled with school shootings, the Boston Marathon bombing, massive floods in the Southwest, the plant explosion in Texas, tornados, and tragedies overseas. As the news broadcasts so many calamities, innocent lives lost and people injured, it's easy to harbor fear and wonder: What's happening to our world? Why are people so evil?
Can we ever feel safe?
In that airport terminal, my mind was on the verge of drifting to a thousand what-ifs and whys when I remembered God's promise in Psalm 46. As I allowed His truth to sink in, I paused to take comfort in the fact that there was no need to fear, because no matter what, God is with us.
Verses 1-3 assure us that "God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!" Interlude.
Di ba’t ang hangarin natin sa buhay ay magkaroon ng buhay na banal
Ano nga ba ang kahulugan ng buhay na banal?
Ang kabanalan ay ang pakikipagkaibigan sa Diyos Kaibigan, dahil tayo at ang Diyos ay nagiibigan.
sa pagkakaibigan At ito ay walang iba kundi ang kasalanan.
Psalm 46:4-7 says, "A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High. God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed. From the very break of day, God will protect it. The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God's voice thunders, and the earth melts! The Lord of Heaven's Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress." Interlude.
While I love the ocean, I don't long to dig my toes in the shorelines when there's a storm. But I wouldn't mind sitting on the banks of a peaceful river, even during a rainstorm. Just like the calm, flowing waters of a river, God weaves His peace and provision throughout our lives even in chaos.
Psalm 46:8-11 says, "Come, see the glorious works of the LORD: See how he brings destruction upon
God is our Protector. He is where we find strength to get through tough times when we are afraid. When the earth crumbles, floods abound, avalanches roar, tornados threaten - He is our refuge. Yet, sometimes in the face of tragedy and heartache, we question God, doubting His promise of protection. Although God does have the authority and ability to protect us from every trouble, sometimes He uses the trials we go through to teach us, purify us and draw us closer to Him. Although at times it may seem that God has not protected us in the way we need or desire, we can rest in knowing that He is protecting us in the way He knows is best for us to learn to fully depend on God.
the world. He causes wars to end throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; he burns the shields with fire. Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world. The Lord of Heaven's Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress." Interlude.
Although the world is in disarray, God is still God. He is still on the throne. Still mighty. Still faithful. Still sovereign.
In all three sections in this passage, each one ends with the word Interlude. The definition of interlude is to pause, break, breathing space, or rest.
When we pause to focus on the truth that God is God, we find rest.
If fear has been creeping into your heart lately, pause and remember that God is your protector; His presence is with you, and He is in the highest position of authority over this broken world. Ask Him to settle the anxiousness in your heart. Then, just breathe.
Dear Lord, thank You for being a safe place to flee, for always providing peace in the face of anxieties. Fill us with joy. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Romans 8:28 (NIV)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
<(((><
Sino ba tayong abang nilalang at maari tayong ituring na kaibigan ng Diyos Anupa’t hindi pangkaraniwang kaibigan ang Panginoon
Ang kanyang pagmamahal ay walang katumbas at walang sukat
Sa kanya galing ang lahat ng kabutihan Paano naman natin Siya gagantihan?
Ang pagkakataong maging kaibigan ng Paanginoon is isang malaking Biyaya Dapat lamang na pagtibayin at pagingatan Iwasan ang malaking hadlang
Continued from page 1
Greater Houston. Attendees were captivated by the spirit of “kapwa” and embrace shared identities. The hallways, exploration rooms, and exhibitions provided a buzz of excitement to make connections.
The conference opened with an uplifting message. “This is your opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue within our community,” stated Dr. Pat Lindsay “Pinky” Catalla Buscaino, FANHS Houston, Texas Chapter President (2020-present).
“We are now the leaders, the guardians of Filipino American history, who must ensure that our chapters of existence have the right to be seen and heard nationally and globally,” stated Christy Panis Poisot, FANHS National Vice President (2022-2024) and FANHS Houston, Texas Chapter Founder. Conference highlights included
Mayroon tayong Diyos na lubos na maawain Paminsan-minsan tayo ay nanghihina at nadarapa Lubos lang natin pagsisihan ang kasalanan At ng manumbalik muli na ang Diyos ay ating Kaibigan.
Ang Kabanalan ay hindi madaling makamtan Maraming pagsusubok sa buhay ang ating mararanasan Hindi man natin maintindihan kung bakit tayo ay nagdurusa
Ang nais ng ating Panginoon ay patuloy tayong Sumunod at Magtiwala.
Ang sumunod sa Kanya at magmahal ay di madali ay hindi madali Paano ba natin mahalin ang isang kaaway Kaya ba nating yakapin
a variety of featured artists and dignitaries. Keynote Speaker and award-winning filmmaker PJ Raval spoke in front of a jam-packed audience, including the FANHS National Board of Trustees. Music pioneer and freestyle artist Jocelyn Enriquez was in a panel discussion entitled “Legacy of Collaboration: Jocelyn Enrique and Her Creative Partners.” Another captivating panel was “The Making of Larry the Musical” featuring Allyson Tintiangco-Cubales (author), Dr. Kevin Nadal (producer), Erwin Mina (FANHS Museum President), Herb Delute and Necolasa “Nickie” Tuthill-Delute (FANHS Delano Chapter), and Bryan Pangilinan (Co-composer and co-executive producer).
sa pagmamahal ang pagdurusa? Kaya ba nating talikuran ang Kayamanan at mga utos ng Kamunduan Upang Siya ay ating sundan?
Sa bawat galaw natin at kilos Dapat mapalapit tayo sa Diyos Damhin na Siya ay ating kasama Sa buhay natin Siya ay nakikita Upang Siya aynmakilala ng iba.
Sa maikling buhay natin sa mundo Pagsikpan nating mabuhay ng banal Ng hindi tayo mapalayo sa Diyos Buhay natin ay masaya at maayos.
A Bayou-Nihan Market Day” of exhibits and vendors celebrated the Philippine culture with foods, jewelry, greeting cards, clothing, books, FANHS historical memorabilia.
A FAHNS Filipino Texan Gala culminated the conference events with Pinay Powerhouse guest speakers Hon. Gina Ortiz Jones and Gala Keynote Averie Bishop. A presentation of scholarships were presented to a range of age groups from as young as 12 years old to a grad student. A spectacular performance by Filipino-American music pioneer Jessica Enrique wowed the crowd.
Author-Poet Steve Yagyagan and Regina Yagyagan (FAHNS San Diego), captivated the audience with “Plantation Prince: Sakada Son” and Haiku for Life: Live, Love and Laugh with Passion! Another presentation entitled “Encompassing the Journey: The Filipinos of South Bay Exhibit” by Herb Delute and Dr. Judy Patacsil (FANHS San Diego) provided an insight to the makings of a museum exhibit. Author/Oral Historian Emily P. Lawsin (FANHS National President Emerita) presented on “How to Conduct Oral Histories.”
Fr. Agustin T. Opalalic
KABANALAN
Ni Salvador S. Idos
Salvador S. Idos
“Some things go quickly, and some things go slowly,” he remarked as to why Hmong history is still not being taught, noting the process often depends on “how loud” the voices are. “And this one has not taken off as quickly as we would like to see.” Still, he noted, “I believe we will see momentum, especially in places like Fresno, Merced, Modesto,” cities with sizable Hmong communities.
That’s welcome news for Chai Vang. Now in his 70s, Vang was a 13-year-old village boy when he was recruited by Gen. Pao to fight against communist forces for the CIA. He lifts up a book, Ravens, about the Hmong air reconnaissance pilots trained to fly spotting missions identifying North Vietnamese redoubts, and points to a photo of a young boy in fatigues.
“That’s me,” he said, adding, “It’s an honor to be here. It’s an honor to be recognized. And to be known as someone who actually served the US military, especially considering all the friends and peers who have passed.”
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One of those deceased is Ly’s own father.
“Part of the frustration with the Hmong community, and my personal story is the same, is my father used to tell me these cloak and dagger stories, and I thought he was nuts,” he said. “It didn’t occur to me that there was truth to this until a lot of the information was declassified.”
Ly points to the miniature American flags lining the walkways, explaining how each represents a fallen Hmong soldier.
“There is a tendency on the part of the general public to just lump everyone together,” he remarked. “I am a firm believer that everyone has a story… one that, if you take the time to learn it, you begin to value the reasons why people are here.”
United Way of San Diego County and SDG&E Disbursed Grant Funds to Further Aid San Diego County Residents Impacted by January Floods
$180,000 distributed to community organizations that continue to provide direct support to San Diegans in need of home repair, financial education, and more on their road to recovery.
SAN DIEGO, CA -- United Way of San Diego County (UWSD) and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) have come together to offer additional support to San Diego County residents impacted by the devastating floods in January 2024. The aid was given in the form of $180,000 in financial support distributed to two nonprofit organizations that have been instrumental in helping affected residents rebuild their homes. With $30.8 million in public damage, 1,225 displaced households, and 7,750 people affected, UWSD and SDG&E hope this support toward the long-term recovery of the communities impacted will provide much-needed access to vital resources to help them regain stability.
The Harvey Family Foundation and San Diego Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), who’ve provided direct support to families and residents affected by the floods since early 2024, each received $90,000.
“Over the last several months, our team has been actively involved in flood relief efforts, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the needs on the ground and the organizations supporting those affected. We have seen the devastation firsthand, and our collaboration with SDG&E enhances the capacity of local organizations to serve impacted families and help them get back on their feet,” said Nancy L. Sasaki, president and CEO of United Way of San Diego County.
The funds provided by SDG&E were granted to the Harvey Family Foundation and San Diego VOAD to support housing restoration, property repairs, the provision of materials and appliances, and other essential items that continue to be needed by flood survivors.
“SDG&E stands unwaveringly committed to supporting our community during challenging times.
Thanks to the United Way of San Diego County for joining forces with
us in providing essential resources and support to those affected by the January floods,” said Kazeem Omidiji, director of community relations at SDG&E.
“These funds represent more than financial assistance; they symbolize a crucial step toward rebuilding resilient and strong communities. Together, we create a legacy of resilience—one that echoes through generations, lighting the path toward brighter days."
"The flood disaster that struck San Diego communities on January 22, 2024, has left a devastating impact on residents' lives. Survivors need to return home and reestablish a sense of routine as soon as possible. The Harvey Family Foundation's immediate focus is addressing the rebuilding needs of those affected residents' homes. The $90,000 in funds is being allocated with careful consideration to maximize its impact," said Armon Harvey, president and founder of The Harvey Family Foundation. San Diego VOAD works to secure and distribute vital construction materials and household necessities, providing flood survivors with necessary items such as bedding, mattresses, food, and appliances.
“Most San Diego-flood-impacted households have repair needs that far exceed their capacity to handle, with homeowners insurance not covering flood damage and few residents having flood insurance. FEMA assistance is minimal, with an average of $9,453 awarded for home repairs to more than 1,100 families. For those whose homes sustained major damage, repairs easily exceed $100,000 out of their own pocket,” said Valerie Brown, president and chair of the Community Recovery Team at San Diego VOAD. To support the long-term wellbeing of flood survivors, SDG&E has also provided financial support to UWSD for financial education to help flood survivors regain financial stability in the aftermath of the floods.
“Every single ounce of help matters
for me, my family, and for all the families who have suffered in this flood,” said David Díaz, a San Diego resident affected by the January floods.
SDG&E and UWSD are dedicated to standing by community members, providing support during these trying times, and ensuring the recovery process is as smooth as possible.
About United Way of San Diego County
For over 100 years, United Way of San Diego County has remained devoted to its mission of sparking breakthrough community action that elevates every child, individual, and family toward a brighter future. Today, in partnership with local organizations, leaders, and community members, UWSD uses innovation, leveraged resources, and communitybased strategy to resolve inequities and transform lives. United Way of San Diego County is passionately committed to addressing institutional disparities through the implementation of economic and educational initiatives.
Supporting United Way of San Diego County means investing in children's success from an early age and providing holistic family economic support so that all San Diegans can thrive. The nonprofit’s current programs focus on education and literacy support for early learners, college and career pathways for high school students, and tax assistance initiatives that enhance economic mobility for individuals and families.
United Way of San Diego County believes that together, we can face critical challenges and build a stronger, more equitable community.
United with community partners, UWSD cultivates a collective passion for deep systemic change, and impacts the lives of San Diegans countywide. Learn more and get involved by visiting uwsd.org and following @unitedwaysd on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram.
“There
Bonitafest Melodrama “Thin Skins and Hayseeds” Recalls the Great Sweetwater Valley Flood
South County’s 47th annual Bonitafest Melodrama will look a lot like the first
BONITA, CA -- “Thin Skins and Hayseeds,” the popular musicalcomedy produced as the first ever Melodrama in 1978, returns in September, freshened up and still rich with South Bay history. It is the true story of the epic Sweetwater Valley Flood of 1916 sprinkled with poetic license, including a dash of “Romeo and Juliet.”
“Thin Skins and Hayseeds” runs September 25-28 at the Sweetwater Church Theater, 5305 Sweetwater Road. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 and available by calling (619) 850-7126.
“The flooding of the Sweetwater and Otay Valleys in January 1916 remain the most remarkable historical events of this region,” said Bonitafest Melodrama Artistic Director Max Branscomb, a journalism professor at Southwestern College. “Weeks of epic rain caused the Sweetwater Dam to wash out and the Otay Dam to fail. Hundreds of people were killed and everything in the path of the water was destroyed.”
Though the backdrop of the story was a dark moment in South County history, Branscomb said the production is driven by catchy songs and abundant humor…not to mention some “star cross’d lovers” from a pair of feuding farm families.
“It is definitely a fun family show that we hope will leave our audiences humming the tunes and curious about our region’s amazing history,” Branscomb said.
The Bonitafest Melodrama debuted in 1978 and is now San Diego County’s longest-running theatrical production. Branscomb – then a 20-year-old SDSU journalism student – teamed with 26-year-old Bonita Vista Junior High School drama teacher Loren Lindsey to create the original production. It was staged in a rented circus tent pitched on Bonita Road at the site of what is now
the Bonita-Sunnyside Library.
“We literally had hay bales on the stage and straw on the dirt floor,” Branscomb recalled. “It was low budget and absent of any real production values, but people liked the story and the songs. Loren and I thought it was going to be a one-off project, but here we are 47 years later still creating shows about our community.”
Branscomb extended the original script in 1984 and updated it again this year with the assistance of gifted 16-year-old actor-singer-writer Ella Aldridge, a Bonita native and junior at the San Diego School of the Creative and Performing Arts. Aldridge also stars as Sadie, the Juliet-tinged lemon farmer’s daughter.
“It was fun to contribute some ideas and new moments to the show,” said Aldridge, who performed in “Thin Skins and Hayseeds” as a 10-yearold in 2018. “This was one of my first shows. I am so happy for the opportunity to play Sadie. I’ve wanted to since I saw Shae-Linn Carr play her so well in 2018.”
Aldridge was the title character in last year’s Melodrama, “Ms. Sweetwater Valley” and played the chameleonic teenage Archangel Gabriel in the 2023 Christmas comedy “La Pastorela de los Transfronterizos” which aired on KNSJ radio and streamed to cities across the United States and Canada.
Aldridge also co-wrote the rhyming script. She received glowing reviews for her impersonations of Barbie and Taylor Swift. This summer she played the title role in the Disney musical “The Little Mermaid.”
“Everybody should come watch Ella now so you can say ‘I saw her when…’,” Branscomb said. “She’s a real talent.”
Southwestern College student Trevor Braaten plays opposite Aldridge as Buck Gurnsey, the son of a lima bean farmer. Evil villains
RURAL ROMEO AND JULIET: Ella
plays star crossed Sadie and Eva
is Lee the Storyteller in the 47th annual Bonitafest Melodrama "Thin Skins and Hayseeds," a musical based on the Great Sweetwater Valley Flood of 1916. For tickets call (619) 850-7126.
Syara Platero and Evelyn Sugapong are Carmelita and Lee, the storytellers. Sofia Petroulias plays Helen Bookmiser, the lonely schoolteacher.
Other featured members of the cast include Tanya Carr, Alexis Luna, Lily Hobson, Isla
been honored for theatrical excellence, providing opportunities for underrepresented performing artists, promoting community, teaching history and reflecting multiculturalism. It is funded in part by the San Diego County Community Enhancement Program.
Cadwell Von Fowl and Lickpenny are played by Kaede Muller, Tim Evans and Donavan Hash.
Hobson, Randy Phillips, Malachi Veglia, Shay Alexander, Dalia Candelario, Mackenzie Koeppen, Estrella Luna, Brissamar Luna, Caleigh Miller, Lorenzo Malatag, Rose Ingram and Keira Sugapong. Ken Santillan is the musical director. Alexis Luna is the vocal director. Musicians are Patrick Noyes, Karl Muller, Keiler Avery and Michaelangelo Campos. Kerie Muller is the producer and stage manager. The Bonitafest Melodrama has
