How Californians Can Vote
By SELEn OzTURk/EMS
With November 5 less than a week away, how can Californians make sure their vote counts?
SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- With November 5 less than a week away, how can Californians make sure their vote coun
“We’re in a political environment where there’s a lot of unreliable information, and the number one question I get asked is: ‘Where do I vote?’” said Joe Kocurek, California deputy secretary of state for communications, at a Friday, October 25 Ethnic Media Services briefing about the ways that Californians can vote.
California’s over 22 million voters constitute the largest number in the nation.
Those wanting to vote in person can find their nearest polling place here.
While it’s too late to register to vote online, Californians can still register in-person with an ID and vote on the same day at their local polling place or county elections office.
“In-person registration is conditional with a provisional ballot, which means that the voter will go through the same eligibility auditing process we would with any other. Your vote will be counted once we have concluded the process,” continued Kocurek.
Voters — including those living out of state but registered in California — can also vote by mail, by sending the ballot to their local county elections office, dropping it
off at a secure drop box or returning it to their local polling place.
“As long as the envelope is postmarked on Election Day, November 5, and received by the 12th, it will be processed and counted,” he explained. “If people feel like their mail isn’t reliable, they should send it as soon as they possibly can, or drop it off at a box or polling center, many of which open days or weeks early.”
Ballots postmarked by the 12th but received after November 5,
alongside provisional ballots, will be tallied during the official canvass period in the 30 days after Election Day.
After county officials finalize the official vote results within those 30 days after the election, i.e. December 5, the Office of the Secretary of State will certify the results within 38 days after the election, i.e. December 13.
“Voters need to sign the back of their return envelope, because we use that to verify their identity when we receive things through the
mail,” Kocurek added. “We default to enfranchising people. If there’s a signature that isn’t there, or is different than your usual, your local elections office will reach out to you and attempt to rectify it.”
Voters who requested absentee ballots can still use them to vote in-person at a drop box or polling center if they wish.
Those who make a mistake on their ballot can apply for a replacement, or apply to provide a vote-by-mail ballot to their representative; both of
these applications must be returned to a voter’s local county election office.
Californians can check their voter status here, and track their ballot online, by text, by call or over email here.
The California Secretary of State Office also offers voter hotlines and information guides in 10 languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Tagalog, Thai, Vietnamese and TTY/TTD (for those who are dead, hearing
impaired or speech impaired).
“In California, we believe in democracy. We really work hard to ensure easy access and easy return of ballots,” said Kocurek. “We have a Voter Bill of Rights, and if anyone feels like these are being denied, they can reach out to us through our voter hotline or by email.”
“I encourage people to plan how they’re going to vote,” he continued. “I think that’s especially important for younger voters, for whom most everything else can be taken care of on their phones, as opposed to this more old-fashioned way of finding their nearest polling place or using snail mail.”
“Whether you return the ballot in person, mail it or drop it off, if voters think about how they’re going to do it, they’re that much more likely to do it,” Kocurek added.
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Para sa mga San Diego na Botante, ang mga lugar ng Botohan ay bukas sa araw-araw simula nuong Oktubre 26 hanggang Nobyembre 5, 2024. Maraming araw at maraming paraan para kayo ay makaboto. Batay sa Tagarehistro ang inyong mga opsyon sa pagboto ay ang mga sumusonod: Ipakoreo
By SkyLER GALLAR zA n
SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- As Fil-
Am History Month comes to a close, and the anticipation of the November election rolls in, we acknowledge the impact of the Filipino- American community and realize the pivotal roles in which Filipino American leaders play in representing local and state offices. As the years have passed, more Filipino- Americans have played a vital role in political and economic history, both as voters and leading candidates for official public office positions.
4 Filipino- American government officials are paving the way for Filipino- American communities in California, emerging out of primary elections and on ballots for their respective regions. Hailing from cities
such as San Diego, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, each candidate brings a sense of pride in their heritage, as they look to represent local and state offices.
Jessica Caloza
Filipina candidate Jessica represents Assembly District 52 of the Los Angeles Area. With experience in working with the Los Angeles City Government, the California state attorney general’s office and the Obama administration, the democratic candidate strives to uplift and fund those working in the education system, achieve better accessibility for women’s health, and opportunities for housing construction. She is the first Filipina American to serve on the Board of Public Works and is the lead Commissioner for the Bureau of Engineering. Her name will be on
ballots going into November, and if elected, she will be the first Filipina American in the California State legislature.
https://dpw.lacity.gov/ commissioners-boardroom/aboutjessica-m-caloza Christopher Cabaldon
In his running for State Senate District 3, Christopher Cabaldon brings his experience in working as the Mayor of West Sacramento to the potential role as California state senator. Cabaldon was the first openly gay Filipino in the country to be elected mayor and longest serving LGBT mayor in the country. Nationally recognized and appointed by former President Barack Obama, Cabalon represents the democratic party in hopes to continue his work in fighting for environmental protection, accessible education, LGBTQ+ rights, and more. He takes pride in his Filipino heritage and initiates several movements to support Filipino and AAPI communities.
https://cabaldonforsenate.com/ about/
Ysabel Jurado
Ysabel Jurado, from Los Angeles, is in the running for next council member representing District 14. Jurado has built up her legacy since the very beginning, being the daughter of undocumented Filipino immigrants, a single teen mother, a recognized UCLA alum, tenants rights attorney, and now, running for office. Jurado’s role as an attorney fights for the rights of homeowners and small businesses, whereas in running for City Council, she hopes to continue to pave the way for Los Angeles communities concerning housing, ending
By y UGEL LOSORATA
SAN DIEGO, CA -- In the context of Pinoy pride attached to individuals of Filipino descent doing excellent work outside of the motherland, it’s extra special when someone is actually born, raised and educated in the Philippines. Small wonder there is much weight in labeling Captain Al Ambito as the highest-ranking official in the San Diego Police Department who can speak fluent Filipino, or Tagalog, for that matter.
The six-foot-three gentleman with a beaming grin recently received the 2024 Public Service and Legacy Award at the second anniversary and Cultural Night of the United Pilipino International (UPI). He takes pride in the recognition given that it is from the Filipino community, as acknowledged by the US House of Representatives and residents of California’s 52nd Congressional District.
“I’ve always been involved in the Filipino community, and in the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) here in San Diego,” said Captain Ambito. “You may get an award from the department because you’re doing your job, but something coming from the community is a lot more significant for me. It means you’re doing something right.”
The man who grew up in the city of Olongapo and whose father retired as a Chief Petty Officer in the US Navy has carved an illustrious career in the police force after himself serving the US Navy for eight years. He is a law enforcer who does his job accordingly and
goes beyond that by leading various organizations built to bring men in uniform and civilians closer to each other and more empowered as a community.
Captain Ambito is the president of the San Diego Police Pan Pacific Law Enforcement Association (PANPAC) which urges the hiring of people like Filipinos so as toin his words - “mirror what we do in the police.” The group with him at the helm specializes in mentoring, like how the interested can be a detective or a supervisor, or how to take the oral interview for promotion. He is likewise a founder and director for the San Diego Chapter of the Filipino American Law Enforcement Officers Association (FALEO) – one that actively engages in community events and provides assistance to Fil-Am families, including scholarships to Fil-Am students seeking higher education. Sounding casual and
conversational, the decorated authority from America’s Finest City mused, “We want to expose ourselves out to the community so they can get used to seeing us in relaxed moments. Often people think that we only get to appear when called because something bad happens. We want to change that by interacting more with the people and educating them about service stuff like public safety and traffic.” The family man and father of two who studied Engineering at the University of Santo Tomas before flying to America and staying for good had risen through the ranks and was promoted to Captain last August. He warmly embraces it as a position of influence benefiting his brand of leadership, giving him the privilege to build from the ground up the newly established Community and Youth Services Division.
A San Diegan cop for close to 23
The Pampered Pinay Lifestyle: Applying to College
By Francine Maigue
'Tis the season...for college applications!
Whether you're a high school senior, recent grad who's going back for more, or a parent (or even grandparent) that's heading back to school to add to your life's journey...the school application process can feel daunting. Instead of getting overwhelmed in the "what ifs," take pleasure in the opportunity the process presents to self-reflect and take inventory of what makes you, you and the you that you'd like to be. Here are my top five college app (which can also be used for job apps) tips:
1. Connect with the school's alumni association.
An alumni association can be a great resource for scholarships and mentorship...and local alumni are often called upon to interview prospective students. Build those relationships! Connecting with alumni will also give you deeper insight into the school, informing you of important opportunities, dispelling any myths, and giving you first-hand details that let you know whether or not the school/ major/program is really a good fit for you.
2. Draft your letters of recommendation
The mentors from whom you request letters of rec are probably pretty busy folks. Do them a solid
and draft your letters of rec, or at least give them a few bullet points that you want to make sure they include in their glowing recommendation of you. These folks will personalize the letter and add their own details anyway, but they will appreciate that you took the time to give them a jumping off point. By taking the time to prep your letters, you also ensure that each letter is unique and speak to your different qualities and range of activities and achievements. If all your letters look the same, the reader will think you don't have strong relationships with your recommenders, and it's a wasted opportunity to paint a complete picture of just how amazing you are.
3. Quantify your accomplishments Numbers speak volumes. For example, perhaps you volunteered for a community event, "connecting 2,000 students and their families to key health resources." Maybe you were inspired by a particular, startling statistic and went on to "produce a fundraiser that impacted the lives of 300 kids inneed." Did you win an award for which 5,000 students applied? Let admissions know just what kind of odds you beat to achieve great things. Put numbers and faces to your list of service and extracurriculars. You've made your mark and made a difference...Now's the time to revel in the details and toot your own horn!
4. Storytelling > Interviewing Practice telling your story as opposed to "interviewing." Make sure you practice out loud. While brushing your hair in the morning, tell your reflection about a time when you grew as a leader. While riding in the car, tell someone about a challenging experience that made you stronger. Over coffee, share with someone a community issue that you're particularly passionate about resolving and how you'd like to help address it. Nobody knows you better than you, so telling your own story doesn't need to be scary. Make sure to practice, though, so you get used to sharing all the key details succinctly and clearly... in a way that does justice to all of your hard work. Keep your interview style sincere and conversational. Show that you're comfortable in your own skin.
5. Make your personal statement edu-taining
Have fun with your essays/ personal statements. Use them to educate the readers on what makes you uniquely you, and make it an entertaining read. Start it with an intro that hooks someone from the start. Take your readers on a journey. End with something memorable. Writing with freedom helps me get the creative juices flowing. It's not until after freewriting and a break from the piece I'm working on that I start to edit, rearrange and format. More than anything, you've got to make sure your personality shines through. This is a distinct look at this current chapter in your life. It's a special way to document your incredible journey, so far, as well as give a sneak peak into your bright, brilliant future. Go get 'em!
You are special. Your dreams are worth bringing to life. Your story is unique, you've overcome a lot, and you're still standing. Always remember that your potential for greatness knows no boundaries. Whatever the outcome, you'll never have regrets if you stay true to who you are in the application process. Anybody would be lucky to have you as a member of their alumni association. I'll be thinking positive thoughts for all of you, my friends!
Woven Into Another’s Tapestry, Crossing Borders and Building Belonging
Surrounded by
By Adrian Moster
As the music began to play and the Lao dancers began to move in perfect harmony, I realized that I was not simply witnessing a performance; I was witnessing an invitation of belonging. Unfortunately, growing up, I was not privileged enough to embrace my Filipino culture causing me to seek a feeling of belonging. Although I embraced being a “proud” Filipino, I did not fully understand the importance of where I came from. I was never taught about the importance of culture or my native tongue but get scolded for never understanding much about my culture. I am considered to be the term “maputi” or whitewashed in Tagalog. When friends encouraged me to participate in their Lao New Year celebrations, I was first exposed to Lao
the vibrant colors and joyful laughter of Laotian celebration, I couldn’t help but feel like I had found a new sense of home
culture. Every event, from boat festivals to learning traditional Lao dances, gave me a sense of community that I had never had before. Lao traditions inspired me to find my Filipino roots, which helped me to embrace customs like Tinikling, the traditional Filipino bamboo dance. I found that by learning two cultures side by side, I could embrace every part of who I am and find a sense of community that celebrates both cultures. As I continue to learn more about my culture with Filipino language, traditions, and customs. I've learned that the feeling of belonging goes beyond nationality after learning and appreciating Lao culture. Lao culture has not only made me feel like I belong, but they have also given me the courage to embrace every aspect of
who I am. I'm thankful to both cultures for shaping who I am now since I've learned that they celebrate, connect, and feel at home in various ways.
In summary, through the lens of a Filipino-American perspective I share my thoughts on Laotian culture and the art of preserving and sharing culture. Growing up I was never in touch with my own culture but through my connections I felt welcomed by the Lao community and experienced Two years of Lao Dance as a Filipino, Being close to a lot of Laotian people,Lao Boat festivals, Lots of Lao New Year.
Adrian Moster is a nursing major at Southwestern College, part of Sangam Learning Community, and taking Asian American Media and Film with Prof. J.A. Ruanto-Ramirez. Moster lives in San Diego, CA.
ANOTHER JOLLIBEE DEJA VU: THE FILIPINO CHICKENJOY’S POWER OF THE PALATE WINNING THE HEARTS AND MINDS OF AMERICAN FOODIES!
SAN DIEGO, CA -- Some say the way to a person’s heart is through the stomach.
I also want to note that truly loyal customers form connections to the food label that are heartfelt and emotional in nature. These patrons tend to form bonds with brands and the individuals (or iconic figures, for that matter!) who represent them, deriving a sense of satisfaction from that special relationship.
Using the palate for good, I say Jollibee definitely knows how to cook up some delectable insight into how food shapes one’s cultural identity, build community and helps shape government policy.
A few weeks ago, the giant head of a friendly bee in a chef’s hat appeared outside an empty storefront in Alameda Landing, a place I am quite familiar with as I was once stationed over there some four decades ago when I was still in active duty with the Navy. To those in the know, there was – of course - a buzz of excitement because that bee head could only mean one thing: “Chickenjoy”!
And sure enough, last Friday, October 11, more than a hundred people from Alameda and beyond lined up in the very early wee morning hours to celebrate the much- anticipated opening of the Philippines-based fast-food chain, Jollibee. By 8:20 a.m., the line was wrapped around the building while a DJ blasted out jams near a merch table. The first 100 customers were eligible to receive a free T-shirt and more importantly, a free chicken sandwich every month for a year.
On Saturday, the first 100 customers would also receive a trendy bucket hat and on Sunday the giveaway was a baseball cap.
Jollibee originated from our beloved old homeland – the Philippines – in the late 1970s serving American style fast food
classics such as hamburgers (“Yumburger”) and fried chicken (“Chickenjoy”), as well as Filipino dishes such as sweet spaghetti with beef sauce and hotdog pieces, and “palabok” (noodles with pork and shrimps). The first American Jollibee opened up in Daly City in 1998 and has a loyal and almost cult-like following among FilipinoAmericans.
Recently, however, Jollibee has been cultivating a more mainstream following with their most popular item, “Chickenjoy,” which the publication “USA Today” crowned this summer as the #1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken, beating out Chick-fil-A and Popeye’s.
Indeed, Jollibee is the secondfastest-growing restaurant brand in the world (Yes, you heard it right… expanding 2nd globally!), according to the 2024 Brand Finance Awards. No doubts about it, this ranking is no small feat in today’s highly competitive world, considering the massive popularity of leading chains like Chipotle, Starbucks, and McDonald’s.
Certainly, Jollibee has positively enjoyed a stellar run of success of late!
As I have indicated earlier above, in July of 2024, the editors of USA Today 10BEST, along with a panel of experts and readers, selected the best fast-food fried chicken. Jollibee was the top pick, with editors calling at specifically to Jollibee’s signature Chickenjoy. The chain’s annual revenue now tops pre-pandemic levels and profits are back, up 16% year-over-year, to 8.8 billion pesos in 2023, according to Forbes.
Jollibee’s menu offers additional creative and inspired items, too, like Mango Pie, Fiesta Noodles, Aloha Yumburger, and Banana Langka Pie.
Earlier, in June this year, a press
The Centenary of the Canonical Coronation of Our Lady of Peñafrancia was long over. The streets have been cleaned, expensive flowers that adorned the andases had dried up and their once alluring bright colors succumbed to brown. Posters and banners had been put away or consigned to the landfill, and the hangover had been replaced with new ones; the once much anticipated event is now a thing in the past. But wait! After all that pomp and expensive flowers adorned on her andases, came a huge surprise that caught many localities unprepared. The river and the streets where devotees lovingly adored the image of Ina, and where voyadores jockeyed for positions for a ringside place in the procession came the deluge of murky, brackish water that inundated many homes and had taken and threatened lives. Some streets were flooded with neck-high water by super typhoon Kristine, invaded homes, malls, and other commercial establishments, and sent families and employees
CAPTAIN
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years and counting, Captain Ambito wanted to pursue something not anybody can do, and he always valued the idea of making his family proud. Thus, he chose the road less traveled on, wearing the police badge after leaving the military. He knew that not everybody is a fan of the police. But he also realized it’s a rewarding job that pays well and he didn’t want to leave San Diego after meeting his would-be wife Arlene, a registered nurse who spent years in Cavite and who later gave him two beautiful daughters - Alyzen and Arynn. Captain Ambito shared, “I’ve
release noted the store opening of Jollibee in Seattle. On the day of the outset, Maribeth Dela Cruz, President of Jollibee North America expressed excitement: “We cannot wait to be part of such a diverse yet close knit community that has also become a culinary destination in its own right.”
Jollibee’s celebration of diversity and community values is a key focus for the restaurant chain. The Filipino-inspired menu appeals to a large and diverse array of diners around the globe, a quality that its leadership takes to heart.
In a February 2024 statement, Richard Shin, CFO of Jollibee Group, spoke to the importance of the brand connecting with its diners: “Jollibee’s ability to resonate with consumers across diverse markets and cultures opens opportunities for further expansion and growth enhancing the potential for better shareholders value to investors and franchisees.”
The distinct menu offerings of Jollibee are a key reason for the store’s growing popularity, but it’s not the only strength. With a firm set of core values, Jollibee expresses a warm message to its consumers. Its corporate values include Customer Focus, Spirit of Family and Fun, Humility to Listen and learn, Integrity, and Speed with Excellence.
It is this commitment to creating
a diverse, affordable, and consumerminded menu that puts Jollibee in a position of extreme growth today.
No wonder that in the last few years, Jollibee has been rapidly opening new locations outside of traditional Filipino-American communities with 12 locations in the Bay Area and another planned to open in San Francisco next year (2025). (FYI: The Alameda branch is the 75th Jollibee store to opened in the United States.) According to Jollibee spokesperson Jillian Gonzales, the busiest branches include Daly City and surprisingly – Tukwila, Washington and Sterling Heights, Michigan.
While the Jollibee chain has around 100 stores combined in North America, it boasts more than 1,500 establishments around the world – and counting! Other recent Jollibee’s storefront groups in the U.S. include Arlington, Texas; Manhattan, New York; and Brooklyn Kings Highway, New York.
Going back to the recent store opening in Alameda and why Jollibee chose to open a branch over there – Gonzales told the Alameda Post, “Obviously, there’s a huge Filipino-American community here and at the same time, there are a lot of foodies in Alameda.”
As evidence, Camille Lynn and Kim Abbott traveled from Fremont and Walnut Creek to get to Jollibee at 4 a.m. to wait for the grand
Jesse T. Reyes Filipino Potpourri
opening. They sacrificed sleep for the free sandwich giveaway but also to embrace their heritage. “We love Jollibee…and we felt like it’s a Filipino rite of passage to experience a Jollibee grand opening!”
Absolutely, a couple of proud “Pinoys”!
Ha-ha-ha-ha!!
Meanwhile, Alex Webb of Alameda got in line at 7:30 a.m. and was there for the free sandwich giveaway, too - while Ash Cisek, also an Alameda resident, got there at 5.am. “I’m half-Filipino and my sister loves Jollibee but she’s away at college and she was really sad to hear that there was this big grand promotion – so I was like, ‘I’ll go get the shirt that they’re giving away,’” he firmly announced.
Mostly, everyone agreed that the Chickenjoy was the favorite thing in the menu, but another fan favorite is the Peach Mango Pie, a hand-held fruit dessert with a sweet filling. The Pineapple Quencher, a pleasing drink with tropical vibes, is additionally unique offering from Jollibee.
Another Alameda resident that goes by the name “Chin” was the very first person in line. He told the Alameda Post that he had been waiting since 2:30 a.m. and that in the past he would go to Jollibee in Hayward and Daly City. He was excited to have a local Jollibee and plans to eat there once a week. When asked what he loves about
Jollibee, he answered without hesitation, “The chicken and the spaghetti!” Spoken like a genuine Jollibee enthusiast, indeed! Yes, there is no doubt about it that Jollibee is winning over the palates of people around the world, and is on its way to becoming a household name globally including in our adopted “good, old U.S. of A.” and in the Europe, Middle East and Australia region.
As Jollibee shares the secret recipe behind the beloved brand’s growing fan base – let us all be ready for the global Filipino restaurant chain’s accelerated growth in the world’s most competitive quickservice-restaurant market. Even as Jollibee look to grow exponentially to become one of the top-five restaurant companies globally – its company values –humility to listen and learn, speed with excellence, integrity, spirit of family and fun, and customer focus – will always remain at the center of its uniquely Filipino corporate culture. It is these very same principles that as fellow “kababayans” – we should all be proud of a genuine home-grown success story – and that we should be passionately Filipino-committed to sharing with new audience, who have yet to discover the deliciously “Pinoy’s joy of eating” that can only be found at Jollibee. Mabuhay!!
scampering for dry places. Places of worship were not spared cursing the wind to high heavens. Some found themselves squatting on their galvanized roofings while others found safety in evacuation centers. Power was lost throughout the Metro and neighboring localities. It was truly unprecedented! The blame game began instantly and lingered with the water that was still at knee-high in some places days later, and still deep in some areas that rendered traffic at a standstill. Those who prayed for deliverance must have felt a huge letdown after showing Ina’s feast with a celebration that was fit for a queen. The amount of rain that fell on the seat of the devotion and suffragan sites was two-months’ worth according to the weather people that no amount of flood control structures could withstand the onslaught that came like a thief in the night; so sudden and rose so quickly in the middle of the night. Even the invocation of the highest form of prayer, the Oratio
been doing this for so long my family has gotten used to my hectic schedule. As much as possible I would involve them and bring them with me in community events. I want them to see the impact of what we do out there that makes a difference.
That’s why I display the awards that I get from the community because they add validity to what I do.”
Knowledge of life and language in the Philippines has given the firmly built policeman valuable advantage in further understanding the needs and wants of the Filipino community, and even the multitude of other races residing in the seat of San Diego. While most Fil-Ams would vocalize they’re Pinoy at heart, not too many can say they were born and raised Filipino and
Emperata, fell on deaf ears.
Many felt so helpless, distraught, and so alone even days after the catastrophic weather disturbance . Was there a metaphysical message here that some tried to exploit as a religious end game? Or was this a consequence of people’s neglect, of lack of preparedness, lack of foresight, or all the above? In the days ahead when situations reach some normalcy that the painful memories of such tragedy will be charged to experience and move on to a new normal.
Perhaps, it is worthwhile revisiting Archbishop Rex Alarcon’s message that was publicized weeks before the centenary event. I’m sure many could no longer remember the meat of his prophetic letter to the devotees that provided a map, if you will, going forward. His message consisted of 19 lines plus the salutary chant of Viva to the Virgin and the Divino Rostro.
The first two paragraphs explained the significance of the special event. The third paragraph praised the special relationship between Ina and her devotees and how she has always been our constant companion and refuge through life’s difficulties. “In times of calamities – typhoons, earthquakes, and other disasters, we turn to her.” It begs the question, what happened?
experienced what it is to be Pinoy. He went through being an officer, a detective, a sergeant lieutenant, and now a captain armed with the Filipino resiliency and work ethic that made him durable and efficient.
He shared, “Work harder than everybody else. That has always been my philosophy. Be consistent regardless what your rank is. You gotta keep moving and show you care about the community.”
He added, “I don’t want them to say I got promoted because I’m a Filipino or Asian. No excuses; I know 100% that I got it because of the hard work that i put in.”
As for the daily police grind, Captain Ambito believes that a law enforcer should treat everybody fairly, and not judge a person who
The next paragraph, which is a short one, was reassuring. “As we walk with Ina towards the future, let us journey together amidst this rapidly changing world. She walks with us and never abandons, as she never abandoned Jesus until the cross.” The next paragraph is line 13, is the most important one that could have been easily missed by devotees but is fitting now.
“Guided by her, let us embrace the mission of going to the farthest and neglected areas to seek our needy brothers and sisters.”
This is the most compelling line of the archbishop’s message because it really reminds us of the true value of devotion to Ina – to bring us closer to Jesus, to God. In the context of this far-reaching event of biblical proportion, the hardest hit or affected by this calamity are the poor who were either perched on the roof or wading through the flood hopelessly looking for safety. Politicians began distributing relief goods, some warm porridge to sooth the aching tummy from starvation.
The dire situation never stopped people from exacting political revenge by demonizing government leaders for what they perceived as governmental failure and neglect while forgetting that the trash floating around was the same trash piled on their yards or the streets. As if humans are capable
made a mistake. Still, the law has to be enforced and they have to make a report.
“I tell this to anyone: You need to treat somebody the way you want your family to be treated,” he noted.
With a bright childhood back in the Philippines, good role models, and his relentless efforts, the Captain has given his profession a good name. He’s the policeman who trains others to get better, visits seniors to cheer them up, uplifts the community around him while in uniform, and makes sure to fulfill the first rule of law enforcement according to Sean Connery’s character in the classic “Untouchables” - when shift is done he comes home to his family to spend the best part of the day.
of walking on water who can dry
a flood-soaked market structure by their mere ability to part the water and accommodate the flood.
Perhaps the real message here, apart from the metaphysical one, is for people to wake up and understand this changing world” brought about by climate change, by global warming that mankind helps materialize. Polar caps are melting at a rapid pace and contributing significantly to the rising ocean waters, to more violent and super typhoons. It is happening everywhere that even the most advanced civilizations aren’t spared from the wrath of nature.
The Virgin Mary is the Queen of Heavens, the Guardian of Creation.
All the environmental degradation –polluted rivers, denuded mountains from mining, the polluted air we breathe was created by human’s lust for material things, lust for power –factors that bring out the motherly side to punish and scold her greedy and uncaring children. Perhaps God has scolded her too for allowing God’s creation to be defiled and the extraordinary occurrence is God’s way of showing displeasure.
Perhaps we can also divine what Ina wants by unleashing the rampaging waters everywhere to highlight the plight of the poor. Poverty has been around in Bicol since the beginning of the devotion that has gotten worse overtime.
Perhaps Our Lady of Peñafrancia has had enough of the annual rituals that resembles more like a traditional fiesta celebration for the entertainment and self-fulfillment of those who profess deep religious piety. That the pomp and fanciful million-peso efforts to please Ina with extravagant flowers and celebration ends up displeasing her and could best be spent on uplifting the lives of poor devotees.
More importantly, Ina is telling us that her son is unhappy with this annual celebration in the context of his Sermon at the Mount where he gave the disciples strict guidelines for good behavior when they find themselves in a position of privilege.
During the Peñafrancia celebration, the armchair quarterbacks, those who have achieved a position of privilege often see the unruly behavior of drunk voyadores as “poor in spirit.” Criticism is what they get versus lifting them up. The Beatitudes are often understood as Jesus’ way of turning the social pyramid upside down by reassuring the meek, the poor, the persecuted and the peacemakers that they will inherit Jesus’ Kingdom here on earth. Although worldly success passed them by, they can live a righteous life with one another by being good to each other. Not the government (Caesar’s Roman Empire at that time) but by helping each other out.
THEIR TURN: The new Jollibee location in Alameda, California which opened on Friday, 11 October 2024.
JOY AT FIRST BITE: Jollibee's world-famous crispy and juicy Chickenjoy fried chicken.
Filipino Press recognized at United Pilipino International 2nd Anniversary
By y UGEL LOSORATA
SAN DIEGO, CA -- Awardwinning newspaper Filipino Press was handed a Community Service Award by United Pilipino International on its 2nd Anniversary and Cultural Night held at The Rooftop of Jamul Casino last October 12. Publisher Susan Delos Santos accepted the award on behalf of the organization acknowledged for its “exceptional service and commitment to public and community service.”
Noted for being San Diego’s premier source of news and information for the Filipino community, the broadsheet was lauded for being “a cornerstone for more than 38 years, delivering stories, news and information pertinent to Filipinos in San Diego County.”
Delos Santos told the well-attended event, “We always want to preserve excellence in whatever we do to ensure we create an impact on our community. When we produce something, I always think we are representing the community and what a better way to represent it by showcasing the best of us.” Filipino Press, available in bulk drop at Filipino-American supermarkets, businesses, restaurants,
convenience stores, among other establishments, was also praised for its accessibility and expanded coverage to include a variety of topics such as lifestyle, military, businesses, careers, spirituality, politics, and livelihood opportunities, along with its broadened reach to include diverse communities.
The publication was founded in 1986 by the late Ernie Flores, Jr., a former San Diego Tribune reporter himself, while Delos Santos, a native of Olongapo City and UP graduate who migrated to the US in 1983, began working alongside him beginning 1991.
Beloved by the community for her selflessness and diligence, Delos Santos later further stressed, “It’s a collective effort and I am blessed and grateful. I also attribute our success to the people, supporters around me, and the companies who support our mission of serving our community and beyond the best we can.”
United Pilipino International - San Diego's biggest Fil-Am Organization
The event that honored deserving awardees who instilled a sense of Pinoy Pride through outstanding achievements marked the second anniversary of United Pilipino
International (UPI) — now regarded as the biggest Fil-Am organization in San Diego County, with its more than 500-strong membership.
Vice Mayor- District 3 City of National City Ditas Yamane, a Filipina immigrant, said, “This organization created a voice to reach out to other communities, promote our language, culture and heritage. We Fil-Ams are a force to be reckoned with. We are a huge contributor to the economic engine of our community.”
UPI used to be United Pangasinan International until it was rebranded so “it will be inclusive,” as Yamane, one of the founding members, put it. She said that the organization’s leadership is reaching out to fellow Filipino Americans whom they serve. She added, “They grow because when the people see that you are serving, they like to be a participant.”
UPI President Teddy Datuin stated, “The promotion of our culture, heritage, and history, and the acknowledgement of the contributions of our kababayans stand as fundamental objectives of our organization.”
Night of Pinoy Pride
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SDG&E Advances Climate Preparedness with
SAN DIEGO, CA — As the operating environment for utilities becomes more challenging, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) is stepping up to lead the energy sector in climate preparedness. The company has unveiled its updated cutting-edge Wildfire and Climate Resilience Center, innovating in wildfire mitigation and grid safety.
SDG&E’s new Wildfire and Climate Resilience Center is the latest innovation in the company’s commitment to building an electrical grid designed to withstand the intensifying effects of climate change.
One of the most technologically advanced in the industry, the Center serves as a hub for research, development and implementation of innovative solutions by bringing AI and predictive modeling together with shared technology and intelligence with emergency responders to help enable a swift and integrated response to regional threats. The combination of extensive data and advanced modeling also contributes to improved energy affordability by enabling cost-efficient decision-making that helps reduce risk at a lower cost for customers.
“Our commitment goes beyond reacting to climate challenges. We are focused on anticipating and preparing for them," said Caroline Winn, SDG&E’s Chief Executive Officer.
"By leveraging strategic investments, collaborations and community engagement, SDG&E is building the industry leading platform to support a more sustainable, resilient energy grid that is better prepared to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.”
The Wildfire and Climate Resilience Center also serves as SDG&E's new Emergency Operations Center, a critical hub during extreme weather events and major disasters. Equipped with advanced communication and coordination tools, the center is designed to enhance safety for employees and the public.
The company’s Wildfire and Climate Resilience Center is a centralized focal point of SDG&E’s climate resilience strategy:
Advanced weather monitoring: SDG&E operates one of the nation’s most sophisticated weather forecasting networks, offering real-time data to better anticipate and address weatherrelated threats. The company’s systems use millions of historical weather data points going back to 2010 to assist in training AI-based wind forecasting models, including one of the first AItrained Santa Ana Wind Gust forecast models in the industry.
AI and machine learning: These cutting-edge technologies can help
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predict and mitigate wildfire impacts on the energy grid. For example, SDG&E conducts more than 10 million virtual wildfire simulations daily to inform operational wildfire risk models, and uses more than 3.8 million drone images of company infrastructure to train AI-based inspection models.
Partnerships with academia:
SDG&E partners with leading academic institutions such as Scripps Institution of Oceanography’s Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes, San Jose State University, San Diego Supercomputer Center and the University of Wisconsin-Madison
Space Science and Engineering Center to develop weather products to better anticipate extreme events, visualize and share weather and fuel moisture data, analyze fire potential and detect wildfires using real-time satellite data.
Community collaboration: SDG&E works closely with local communities and stakeholders to achieve more inclusive and effective climate resilience efforts.
Fire-resistant infrastructure:
The company continues to invest in fire-hardened systems, including undergrounding, steel poles, and vegetation management, that aim to reduce wildfire risk.
Workforce training: Extensive training programs are equipping SDG&E’s workforce to manage and maintain a resilient grid.
Beyond immediate operations, the Wildfire and Climate Resilient Center plays a vital role in inspiring future energy professionals, advancing wildfire and climate science, and
engaging local youth in climate resilience education through a new Resilience Zone. This fun and engaging learning center includes three climate science labs, and a series of interactive exhibits designed to educate young students and partner with academia to advance and share wildfire and climate science as it relates to the energy grid. To learn more about SDG&E's wildfire safety initiatives, visit sdge. com/wildfire-safety.
About SDG&E
SDG&E is an innovative energy delivery company that provides clean, safe and reliable energy to better the lives of the people it serves in San Diego and southern Orange counties. The company is committed to creating a sustainable future by increasing energy delivered from low or zerocarbon sources; accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles; and investing in innovative technologies to ensure the reliable operation of the region's infrastructure for
homelessness, taking on climate change, and more initiatives. She will be representing the democratic party going into elections.
https://ysabeljurado.la/ Todd Gloria Coming in strong as San Diego’s 37th Mayor, 3rd Generation San Diegan Todd Gloria offers a sense of knowledge and experience in serving two terms on San Diego’s City Council, where he was also elected City Council President, served as interim mayor, and also played a role on the California State Assembly.
During his time in being Mayor, Gloria had committed himself to the San Diego community by repairing almost 949 miles of roads, upgrading parks, and pushing to improve community resources and necessities like local fire stations and libraries. Over the past three years, Gloria has successfully placed over 3,600 individuals experiencing homelessness into permanent housing and has more than doubled shelters and resources for those with housing needs. Gloria hopes to continue to pave the way for San Diegans residents as he hopes to continue his efforts in representing the city again as Mayor. https://toddgloria.com/abouttodd-1
With more Filipino- American representation in the political sphere, comes the attention of more and more Filipino- American citizens to cast their votes. For example, within Jessica Caloza’s District 52, which covers Glendale and various parts of the Los Angeles area, there are about 13,000 registered Filipino- American voters. Not only do these voters represent the growing number of involvement within the election, but having these 4 Filipino- American campaigns itself signify the growing representation of Asian Americansin the running for official government positions. Since 1980, the number of AAPI’s in the public office has grown from 160 to 463 in 2016. According to the 2024 Asian American Voting Survey, 90% of Filipino- Americans are planning to vote this November 5th. Of those Fil- Ams, 39% percent of the group
identified as Democrat, 22% identified as Republican, 30% claimed as an Independent party, 3% identified as other party, while the remaining 6% did not know or refused to answer. Asian Americans are the fastest growing voting group in the United States. That being said, there is no doubt that with the power of FilAm representation in office brings a new wave of eligible AAPI voters. Those of whom can potentially make a lasting impact on the future of the United States, and on the future of Asian American empowerment and leadership. To find more information on the election happening November 5th, ballot drop off locations, voting polls and more, visit https://www.sdvote. com.
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TESTIMONIAL
Thank you so much for the Filipino Press and the invaluable service it provides not only to the Filipino community but beyond. Through the Filipino Press, our family was able to find someone to care for a disabled family member. She provided exceptional care for nearly 8 years. I heard a description once that totally applied to her as an angel having a human experience. The Filipino Press was indeed a lifesaver for us, and we hope that it continues to serve for decades more to come.
Flores Bishop
Spiritual Life
How can I say “Thanks”?
I am not a singer but I love to sing. I sing when I am happy. I sing when I am sad and lonely. Most often, I browse in the Internet or scan the hymnbook to find hymns that expresses my thoughts and feelings every time I feel like singing. True enough, many of my favorite songs actually express what I feel at the moment I sing them. I greatly appreciate the lyricist who I believe is as human as I am and who feels the same way as I feel during those moments of happiness or aloneness. When I start singing, I feel I am talking to God through songs and praises.
When November comes around my thoughts are focused on how I will celebrate Thanksgiving Day. Then memories of times past begin to grip your heart and tears wells up especially when you recall the difficult and challenging times you went through. You have overcome all those trials in your life and you begin to thank God for all the things He has done for you.
One of my favorite hymns is entitled “My Tribute”. It is a beautiful song that truly expresses how I feel not only on Thanksgiving Day but every day. “How can I say thanks for the things you have done for me/ Things so undeserved yet You gave to prove Your love for me/ The voices of a million angels could not express my gratitude/All that I am and ever hope to be/I owe
Go down there and buy some for us, so that we may live and not die.
(Genesis 42:2b)
F. B. Meyer in his book, The Life of Joseph, describes a time in the life of the 12 sons of Jacob in which they were driven from their lives of self-satisfaction to an unlikely place to save their lives.
Many years earlier they had thrown their youngest brother into a pit, then sold him into slavery. Thirteen years later he became the second most powerful person in Egypt. Now the world was experiencing a famine, and Joseph controlled all the stored grain of Egypt. As long as the hills were green and the pastures clothed with flocks, as long as the valleys were covered over with corn and rang with the songs of reapers, Reuben, Simeon, and the rest of them would have been unconcerned and content. But when the mighty famine came, the hearts of these men were opened to conviction. Their carnal security was shattered. They were being prepared for certain spiritual experiences they would never have dreamed. And they were being prepared for the meeting with Joseph. This is how God deals with us; He breaks up our nest, He loosens our roots, He sends a mighty famine that cuts away the whole staff of bread. Then, at such times, weary, worn, and sad, we are prepared to confess our sins and receive the words of Christ when He says, "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28).
A missionary once said, "There is a place where we will all be obedient." Joseph was a type of Christ in the Old Testament. The famine was an event designed to bring the brothers to repentance and a saving knowledge, physically and spiritually. It created the circumstances that led to freedom for these men, for they had been in bondage to a wicked crime against their brother for many years. It was the forgiveness from Joseph that
Aurora
S. Cudal-Rivera
My Personal Testimony
it all to Thee. /To God be the glory/ To God be the glory/To God be the glory/For the things He has done./ Just let me live my life and let it be pleasing Lord to thee/And if I gain any praise, let it go to Calvary/ With His blood He has saved me/ with His power He has raised me/ To God be the glory/For the things He has done.”
As we celebrate Thanksgiving Day, let me share this prayer: “Father, we thank you for your great gift of life and for Your love for us. We thank you for family and friends whose words of encouragement have kept us hopeful in times when we seem hopeless, and whose support have given us the confidence and security that we need at this time of our life. Help us to appreciate all that we have, to be content with whatever we possess, and to be grateful for everything that You have given us. We are proud of
who you are and what you make of us, not in arrogant pride that boasts, but in grateful pride that makes us strive to be more worthy. All these we pray in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom all blessings flow. Amen.”
Greetings in the Lord!
Last Friday we celebrated the feast of All Saints’ Day, followed by the commemoration of the faithful departed the next day, known as All Souls Day yesterday. I mentioned that these celebrations provide us a view of the mystical body of Christ that is composed of both the living and the dead, the sinners and the saints and the people in pilgrimage toward the Kingdom of God. In this past this was known as the communion of the saints, composed of the church militant, church triumphant and the church suffering, describing the realities of heaven, earth and the existence of purgatory.
Today we celebrate the thirty first Sunday in Ordinary Time. The readings in today’s Eucharistic celebration point to one very important commandment, namely love. The observance of the commandments that the first reading and the gospel ask every disciple of Jesus is truly what witnessing to this faith really demands. When Jesus answered the scribe which is the greatest commandment, he has revealed the foundation of our faith, namely that the nature of God himself is Love. This is what Benedict XVI explained in his first encyclical letter entitled “Deus est Caritas.” Truly the mission of Jesus that begun with his incarnation and culminated in his resurrection on Easter was to invite all of us to respond in love to Him who has given his life out of love for his Father and because of His love for
humanity in spite of our sinfulness.
This response can happen only when we love God above all things and love our neighbor as Jesus Christ himself loves us to the point of death.
How can this love of God be preached and brought into reality.
As Synod on “synodality” in Rome reached its conclusion last October 27 with the resolutions still in the process for publication, it is worth recalling the past Synod of bishops.
The Synod on the youth and in relation to the past two synod of bishops on the new evangelization that the synod on the family, one thing comes of great importance in our faith, namely that loving God above all things and our neighbor should begin in our own families.
The Synod fathers significantly mentioned the family as a locus of this evangelization when it said “established by the sacrament of matrimony, the Christian family as the domestic Church is the locus and the first agent in giving of life and love, the transmission of faith
and the formation of the human person according to the values of the gospel. In imitating Christ, the whole Church must dedicate herself to supporting families in the catechesis of children and youth.” Furthermore, I believe that there is an urgent object of this evangelization that the Synod fathers have definitely identified when it mentioned that “love of God and love of neighbor have become one: in the least of the brethren we find Jesus himself, and in Jesus we find God. They have in mind primarily the poor and described this phenomenon this way “Today there are new poor and new faces of poverty: the hungry, the homeless, the sick and abandoned, drug addicts, migrants and the marginalized, political and environmental refugees, the indigenous people. The current economic crisis seriously affects the poor. Among the poorest in contemporary society are the victims of grievous loss of respect for the inviolable dignity of innocent human life.” There are so many other things to speak about during this coming new liturgical year that begins on the first Sunday of Advent. More programs of the new evangelization that are urgently called for us to be involved in. Let us all pray that the conclusions of the most recent Synod on Synodality would lead us to be open to the call to renewal and give ourselves more sincerely so we can truly be faithful disciples of Jesus.
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Danny Hernaez
Whom
led to that freedom.
Is your life passing through a time of famine? Are your supplies limited? Is God leading you into directions that you would not normally seek? Perhaps this is God's hand creating circumstances for His purposes. Now is the time to look attentively as He directs you to unlikely sources.
Luke 24:13-35 New International Version (NIV)
On the Road to Emmaus
Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles[a] from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.
He asked them, "What are you discussing together as you walk along?"
They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, "Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?"
"What things?" he asked.
"About Jesus of Nazareth," they replied. "He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of
our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn't find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus."
He said to them, "How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?"
And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?" They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, "It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon." Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.
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When finally our earthly life will come to an end, the most fundamental question which could be asked is “ Did our life make a difference? What have we done to make this world a better place to live in?” I humbly submit that my Mom, REGINA SALCEDO IDOS did make a difference in the lives of others.
She was born to Concepcion Olarte Camacho and Apolinario Salcedo in Pozorrubio, Pangasinan Philippines, in Sept. 7, 1910. I do not have much recollection of her mother who died young, but her father Apolinario, was a veteran of the Philippine revolution against Spain. He fought under Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippine Republic. Aguinaldo proclaimed the Philippine independence on June 12, 1898. As a small boy, I had the chance to travel several times with my Lolo Olin to Kawit, Cavite to celebrate Philippine Independence every June 12th.
My Mom, who passed away at 100, was the grand matriarch of a large extended family. At the time of her death in 2011, she had 9 children, 36 grandchildren, 88 great grandchildren and 11 great-great grandchildren. She had a very stong presence in our large but closely knit extended family. She left a lot of many beautiful memories with a lot of people whose lives she touched.
My Mom related to me that I had an extremely difficult childhood years. I was three months old when Japan attacked the Philippines in December, 1941. We left our house in the town and fled to our farm in barrio Dilan, Pozorrubio, Pangasinan. Perhaps due to anxiety, she did not have the milk to breastfeed me. Worst there was no milk available in the market. For me to survive, my Dad Vicente and my eldest brother Ben, had to take care of a goat. It was from the goat’s milk that I was nourished during my childhood years. My parents heard of the atrocities of the Japanese soldiers so my father built an underground shelter where as a child I would stay together with my six other siblings every time my Dad could sense danger in our vicinity.
After the war, we went back to our war damaged house in the town of Pozorrubio. It was a large Heritage house and we learned that it was used as a barracks by the Japanese soldiers. My Mom, Regina fondly called “Inay” by acquaintances, was a deeply religious woman. It was she who taught me how to pray. As a small boy growing up, I experienced how it is to be in a family praying together. Every early evening at 6:00, the church bells in our town would ring to announce the Angelus. Wherever I would be, I would hurriedly ran back home to join my family for us to pray the Oracion, the Pangasinan version of the Angelus. My Mom was a
devotee of the Blessed Mother, so every Wednesday, we would also pray the Novena of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. At one time, when I was about 9 years old, with both of her arms, she held me by my shoulders and straight in the eye she told me in our native tongue Pangasinan, “ Whatever happens to you in life, always cling to your Faith. Never waver in your strong belief in God.” Somehow, what she told me remained in my memory and in my heart. It has continued to sustain me as I navigate the challenges in life’s journey. During the latter part of her life, she built a small Catholic chapel in Dilan using her personal resources. After the Covid pandemic we helped in having it reconstructed. As of this writing, the Chapel is still very much alive catering to the spiritual needs of the barrio people. Not only are masses and baptisms solemnized, the chapel is also used as a funeral parlor for the poor and the needy families. My Mom was very much loved and admired by the tenants and residents of Dilan.
When my Mom retired after 40 years of teaching, she came to the United States where she used most of her time taking care of her numerous grandchildren. Out of her nine children, eight are in the US, seven are based in San Diego. When she arrived in San Diego in 1974, from the airport, she went directly to the hospital to see her newly born grandson who eventually grew up to be a medical doctor. According to her, the house of my brother where she was staying was like a nursery where she took care of as many as seven of her grandchildren. When her grandchildren grew up to be of school age, she volunteered as a Teacher Aide in their school just so she could be near them. My parents were very active in the seniors’ circle where my Dad served as the President of PAASCO, an organization of Seniors based in San Diego. My Mom popularized the Santacruzan in the San Diego community.
When my Mom turned 90, we decided to give her a big Thanksgiving party. It included a carefully planned program, sumptuous food, a live band and dancing. It turned out to be a very festive and joyous event that we decided to have it every year for the next ten years culminating in the grand celebration to celebrate her 100th birthday! These celebrations gave us the opportunity to give thanks to God for the tremendous blessings through the years. The highlight of every celebration is the speech to be given by my Mom. She was gifted with a keen memory and it was with delight that she delivered her inspiring speeches despite her advanced years. In the twilight years of her life, God blest our Mom with our presence. We are seven siblings based in San Diego and so each day of the week Mom has a son or daughter to take care of her.
I was her Tuesday Boy. I also took care of her finances . We spent our time with her recalling many beautiful memories. Although her mobility was diminished, thanks God she was not at all bedridden and she remained mentally sharp. Despite her numerous grandchildren, it is remarkable that she knows each one by name and she made each one of them feel special.
My Mom led a simple and uncomplicated life grounded on a strong Faith in God. Whatever is the problem at hand, she embraced it with Love. She was very generous with her Treasure, Time and Talent. She was loving and was loved in return. She was blest with God’s Joy and Peace. It was a life of Service, a Life Fulfilled. I was with my Mom during her last moments. I got a call from my sister Nenita that Mom needs to see her doctor. Her personal physician, Dr. Masilungan, advised us to take her to the hospital. Along the way, she said she was hungry so we dropped by her apartment for her Froot loops cereals. At the hospital, I left her behind in the car with the caregiver by her side while I arranged for her admission to the hospital. When I came back for her, she was gone! The caregiver did not notice any struggle at all. It looked like she just closed her eyes and went on to sleep. She died peacefully. Thanks be to God. After the funeral, we opened a letter from her for the first time. It was a letter reminding us to remain United in Love the rest of our lives. God used my Mom as an instrument to make a tremendous difference in my life for me to become the person that I am now. I will forever cherish her memory.
POSTSCRIPT: My Mom shows her appreciation to people she admires. A few days before she passed away, she requested me to deliver a cake to then Mrs. Aurora Cudal my fellow columnist at The Filipino Press. After we laid my Mom to rest, Mrs. Cudal was visibly touched to receive two cakes from someone who has passed away! I observed that the feeling is mutual. They both admire each other; shared values, shared identities.
Fr. Agustin T. Opalalic
Ni Salvador S. Idos
Salvador S. Idos
By NiNa icasia No
CHULA VISTA, CA -- “What does being Filipino-American mean?” was a daunting question I pondered after several years of declaring myself only “Filipino” on surveys, in conversations, and even in college applications. But growing up, I grasped the struggles of preserving what made me Filipino and comprehending my hyphenated American identity until I reembraced the Filipino part of me.
So what does being FilipinoAmerican mean to me? Based on my lived experiences: Being Filipino-American meant understanding the transition onto American ground. I was born in the suburbs of Marikina City, my former home. I attended private Catholic schools, befriended every kid in my bungalow-filled neighborhood, saw extended family monthly, and was always curious about the world I lived in. Growing up, my culture was represented everywhere; casual street vendors and Christmas parols proved its presence was worth its weight in gold. I had no vision of leaving until I moved to the United States at the unripe age of eight years old and looked back at how uneducated I felt encountering people different from me. Being Filipino-American meant noticing where my culture thrives and where it doesn’t. I moved to Washington, D.C. with my family, making me a first-generation Filipino-American. I was fortunate in my English comprehension thanks to my private Catholic education, so attending public, non-religious institutions where only English was
spoken sounded simple. However, I felt alone in a town bustling with people because there weren’t that many of us. Then I moved to California and found myself surrounded by more FilipinoAmericans than on the East Coast. But during my naturalization, the words “renounce your former citizenship” were cemented into my head as “give up the Filipino in you.” So being Filipino-American meant I’m not fully either identity. When I reflect on the roots of my ethnicity, I thought about being born outside American soil, yet my relatives back home and other older Filipino/Filipino-American adults see me as “Americanized” due to my lack of exposure. So I joined Filipino organizations throughout high school and college to ensure I am continuously aware of my newfound history as I grow older here. But now, being Filipino-American means wherever my culture is omnipresent, alive, and well, I always find people to celebrate with me. On October 3rd, Southwestern College hosted its 2nd Filipino-
American History Month FlagRaising Ceremony. Southwestern College is home to a widespread Filipino-American population. It houses Bayan, a learning community for FilipinoAmerican students, and newly-established Sangam for all AAPI students. At the ceremony, I saw my culture come to life that day. Samahan’s performances were reminiscent of choreographing and performing for PAYO (Philippine American Youth Organization) during my time at Eastlake High, and watching the first flag I honored high in the sky commemorated what being Filipino American means to me: even though I am on new soil, I water the roots that support me and consume the fruit that bears me, revitalizing my near-lost engagement with my heritage, my culture, and my history.
Nina Icasiano is a psychology student at Southwestern College, is part of the Sangam Learning Community and taking Asian American Media & Film with Prof. J.A. Ruanto-Ramirez. Icasiano is a resident of Chula Vista, CA.
Guests dressed in intricate, traditional Filipino clothing for the Fil-Am History Month Flag Raising Ceremony at Southwestern College in Chula Vista, CA on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024. (Ko Inouye / Southwestern College)
FILIPINO PRESS
Continued from page 5
The gathering hosted by Julio De Guzman and Mary Soriano and also in commemoration of the Filipino American History Month hoped to reflect UPI’s mission to serve the community through cultural and educational programs. Philippine Consulate San Diego County’s honorary consul Audie de Castro made note of the celebration as a “wonderful opportunity to honor our rich Filipino heritage and acknowledge the remarkable contributions of Filipino Americans who uplift our community.”
Other notable community leaders in attendance were Reverend Alex Aquino, Joy Gacuya (UPI’s Chief Information Officer), Benny Valerio
(UPI Vice President), and Mayor John McCann of City of Chula Vista, a Navy Veteran and Navy Reserves Commander who proudly mentioned about the five-acre park project in Otay Ranch to be named Filipino American Veteran National Park.
The occasion featured thematic dance performances with performers donned in delicate Filipiniana attire, patriotic song numbers, inspiring speeches from prominent personalities, and the awarding ceremonies that also saw the presentation of lifetime achievement awards to CWO4 Tony Pizarro, Col Ceferina Ruiz, CWO2 Ernie Liwag, and the Silayan Filipina National Organization.
Pizarro, upon receiving his award, aptly said, "From my humble beginning coming to America in 1959
in the US Navy, I’ve been blessed with many, many things here. I hope all of you believe in the American Dream.” Given awards for public service and legacy were Captain Al Ambito of San Diego Police Department and Lt. Col. Marissa Manipud Marquez of the US Air Force Reserve. JoAnn Fields was likewise given a community service award, as special recognition was handed to Paul and Katrina Benfer. Several dance groups entertained fellow UPI members and guests, namely, RMX Dance Group, UPI Dance Group, Super Cool Ladies, Chula Vista Visionaries Lions Club, Eastlake Dancers, and the aforementioned Silayan Filipina National Organization. Both Rolly Bona and Jeanne Moss sang song numbers.
Top photos show the Community Leaders and Lifetime Achievement Awardees recognized during UPI's Second Year Anniversary. (Photos by Zen Ply)
SUMMER STEPHAN San Diego District Attorney
