County’s Aging Roadmap Highlights Needs of Growing Population
By FeR nanda lopez
h alvoRSon/cSdo
SAN DIEGO, CA -- The County’s Board of Supervisors recently received an update on the Aging Roadmap, which serves as the County’s framework for creating supportive and inclusive communities where people of all ages and abilities have broad and equitable opportunities to thrive. Today, more than 710,000 people 60 years of age and older live in San Diego County and that number is expected to grow to 820,000 over the next five years. Originally released in 2019, the Aging Roadmap is updated yearly using feedback from community members, surveys and those who work with or serve the aging population.
“The feedback we get from the community is really important to us,” said Jennifer Bransford-Koons, County Aging & Independence Services (AIS) Director. “It tells us whether we are reaching people with the right services in a way that is accessible to them so that they can age well and thrive.”The 2024 Aging Roadmap Annual Update covers program highlights including: • In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), AIS’ largest program provides help with personal care and household chores for older adults and adults and children living with disabilities. Last fiscal year, from July 2023 to July 2024, the program grew by almost nine percent to 42,000 people due a growing population of older adults and more outreach efforts to promote the program. • The Tech2Connect program helped more than
and holiday festivals for more than 1,350 people. Nine intergenerational gardens are also being
SAN DIEGO, CA-- Organized by friends and colleagues from the San Diego community in the humble abode of the De Vera Residence, the Council for Teachers of Filipino Language and Culture (CTFLC) honored Mary Rose Peralta in a heartfelt retirement celebration on September 21, 2024. The event recognized her as a beloved leader known for her wisdom, vision, and dedication, and marked the culmination of her 34-year career at Sweetwater Union High School District, during which she profoundly impacted generations of students, educators, and the Filipino-American community in San Diego.
With over eight years as a teacher and more than twenty years as an administrator, MRose (as many called
her) touched countless lives through her deep passion for education and commitment to empowering others. Born into a privileged family of educators and leaders, MRose seemed destined for greatness. While some believed she might have been destined for the Philippine presidency, her path led her to Southern California, where she left an enduring mark on education. Throughout her career, she advanced initiatives to empower educators and prepare students to thrive in a globalized world.
MRose’s journey in the U.S. began as an intern at Montgomery High School while still a student teacher at the University of the Philippines.
Known affectionately as ‘Binibining Peralta,’ she decorated her classroom with Philippine postcards—a
reflection of her deep pride in her heritage and her commitment to cultural education. Her students adored her, and many were saddened when she transitioned into an administrative role. Fortunately, she remained at the same school. When asked why she pursued administration, MRose simply responded, "To make a bigger difference."
Guided by her "why not?" philosophy and her belief in "daring to do things out of the ordinary," MRose consistently challenged the status quo and championed innovation. Her influence shines in her unwavering support for language and cultural programs. In 1989, MRose's vision brought together the first Filipino language teachers in California, including Gng. Sally Idos, to collaborate on strategies and lesson plans that would help expand these culturally and linguistically relevant programs.
In 1999, MRose played a pivotal role in recruiting teachers directly from the Philippines to teach science and mathematics in California schools. As she took on various leadership roles, she continuously found ways to support and empower educators to better serve their communities.
Her efforts changed the lives of many Filipino families, offering them opportunities to migrate to the U.S. as professionals and build better futures.
At her retirement party, families expressed their gratitude for her leadership, thanking her for "changing the course of their family’s lives," "giving them a chance without judgment," "being supportive," and "providing guidance." The teachers
CHULA VISTA, CA -- The Southwestern College hosted a Filipino Flag Raising ceremony in celebration of Filipino American History Month. The event will honor the rich history, cultural heritage, and significant contributions of the Filipino American community.
The program included the ceremonial raising of the Filipino flag, cultural performances, and speeches from college and community
leaders, fostering a sense of pride and unity. The special moment offered attendees the opportunity to reflect on the importance of Filipino American History Month and its role in fostering inclusivity and connection.
The event was held on Thurs. October 3, 2024 from 12pm-1pm at Southwestern College – Chula Vista Campus, at the corner of H St. & Otay Lakes Rd, by flag poles, 900 Otay Lakes Rd. In attendance were
Dr. Mark Sanchez, Superintendent/ President of Southwestern College, Kris Galicia-Brown, SWC Governing Board Vice-President, Devin Grace, Representative from the Bayan Student Organization, faculties and students. Philippine cultural dance and musical presentations were provided by Samahan Philippine Dance Company. Also in attendance were members of Council for Filipino Language Council and supporters. (Courtesy photo)
By Rachelle Sy/cTFlc
The Pampered Pinay Lifestyle: Gift giving with personal touch
By Francine Maigue
The subject of gifts has come up recently, and no one should expect the usual type nor amount of gifts under the tree this year. (…If there even is a tree…Let’s manage those expectations.) Material gifts don’t represent the spirit of the season, and they certainly don’t represent one’s love. Modest, meaningful gifts are blessings, and they can take many different forms. Here are just some ideas…Got more? Send me a message on Facebook, and your ideas may be featured here!
1. Homemade Crafts & Homecooked or Homebaked Goods
– Labors of love can be effective in providing that traditional Christmas experience, even from a distance.
A handcrafted ornament, batch of cookies, platter of pancit…tray of lumpia…or whatever creation available supplies and ingredients allow for, dropped off zero-contact style, then opened and enjoyed during a Zoom or FaceTime still makes for shared holiday memories “together” with loved ones.
2. Pre-Loved Books – Books are a great way so share something special with someone you love. An inspiring biography…a thrilling novel…a book of emboldening quotes…How-To’s…a cookbook… Whatever the genre, add a thoughtful dedication to the inside of the front cover. Don’t forget to include the date! The gift may become one that is shared and passed down for generations to come!
3. Photos – Just because we’re
distanced, doesn’t mean we can’t show up at each other’s home… in a photo! A collage, an album or a choice shot in a frame…a photo can serve as a physical reminder of joyous times spent together. Candids are great, if possible, like shots of folks actively laughing, traveling, or trying something new together. When isolation starts to eat at folks, your photo can be source of hope and renewed optimism….and a reminder of the rewards that await us so long as we stay safe now.
4. Handwritten Letter – When was the last time you wrote or received a handwritten letter? For most folks, it’s been a while. Express your love straight from the heart and put pen to paper. This year has made us all reflect on what’s truly necessary. Relationships with those we love mean so much, and yet they’re rarely shared and documented in this way…which makes them all the more special. Whatever the length or your handwriting, the recipient will feel your love through your thoughtful, honest words and reflect on the shared sentiments for as long as that letter holds up. #PenpalsFTW
SAN DIEGO, CA -- Starting
Tuesday, Oct. 8, registered
can return their mail ballot for the November Presidential General Election to any one of 150 official ballot drop boxes located around the county. Mail ballots for the County’s 1.9 million registered voters are expected to arrive this week.
What do the Registrar’s official ballot drop boxes look like?
The Registrar’s official ballot drop boxes are red, white and blue and feature the Registrar’s logo along with the County seal. All boxes are labeled “Official Ballot Drop Box” and made from high grade, heavy gauge stainless steel. Each official ballot drop box is designed to prevent physical damage and unauthorized access to mail ballots. The boxes feature doublelocking access doors, anti-pry door jambs and other anti-theft construction measures. The Registrar’s ballot retrieval team is responsible for collecting ballots inside the box.
How do I return my ballot to an official ballot drop box?
Mark your ballot, seal your completed ballot inside your return envelope, date and sign your name on the return envelope, and return it in the mail or to one of the Registrar’s official ballot drop boxes around the county. Remember, your signature is required for your vote to count.
Out of the 150 official ballot drop boxes, 118 are located outdoors and are open 24 hours a day up until 8 p.m. on the final day of voting, Nov.
5. The thirty-two remaining boxes are located indoors and only available when the facility where they are housed is open. Visit sdvote.com to check the location list or the locator map for each facility’s hours of operation before heading out to return your ballot.
How do I vote in person?
Early voting began Monday at the Registrar of Voters office located on the County Operations Center campus in Kearny Mesa. Hours run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Starting Saturday, Oct. 26, you can vote in-person at any one of 39 vote centers. They’ll be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
On Saturday, Nov. 2, over 200 locations will be available. The vote centers will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Nov. 4. On the final day of voting, Nov. 5, all vote centers and official ballot drop boxes will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
With a significant number of
contests on the ballot, the voting process may take longer than usual.
The Registrar’s office recommends using early voting options to avoid long lines. You have the option of casting your ballot by mail, at an official ballot drop box or at any vote center around the county.
If you plan on voting in person, be prepared. Read your pamphlet and mark your selections on the sample ballot in advance. When you go inside the voting booth at the vote center, you can refer to your choices on the sample ballot to conveniently mark your selections on your official ballot.
You can find an official ballot drop box or vote center near you inside your voter information pamphlet or you can look it up online at sdvote. com.
Learn more about voting in the November Presidential General Election at sdvote.com, or call (858) 565-5800 or toll free at (800) 6960136.
SAN DIEGO, CA -- Ahead of the general election on November 5, 2024, the League of Women Voters of San Diego offers nonpartisan election resources at lwvsandiego. org/election. Voters will find simple, accessible tools to help them obtain nonpartisan information about all candidates and ballot measures. The League of Women Voters has been providing unbiased election information to the voting public for decades.
At this website, voters will have access to: • VOTE411.org, the “one-stop
The Filipino Voter Empowerment Project (FVEP) is proud to announce the release of its latest voter PSA video, aimed at energizing the AANHPI community to exercise their vote in the upcoming 2024 election.
The PSA, which showcases the influence of an AAPI voter deciding to get involved, is available now on the FVEP YouTube channel.
shop” for election information;
• the Easy Voter Guide which has information on voting and pros & cons on all California ballot measures; • a local and county ballot measure pros and cons guide
• a video of the LWVSD Ballot Pro & Con Talk that explains all state and local measures
• videos of candidate forums.
VOTE411 is a nationwide service of the League of Women Voters that provides personalized candidate information, voter registration details, polling place locations, and other
helpful election information for all voters.
LWV of San Diego President Kim Knox says “This LWV information provides citizens in the San Diego region with the resources they need to make an informed vote this fall.”
The LWV of San Diego is doing voter registration at sites throughout the region, giving ballot measure pro and con talks and moderating candidate forums throughout the upcoming weeks. The LWV is also providing its nonpartisan election information at all of the San Diego City and County libraries.
This inspiring video brings together an incredible team of AAPI talent, including Elisha Soronio, directed by Alex De Ocampo and Gab Valenciano.
The project was written by Mark Labella, with music by Marc Rasec, cinematography by Mike Maliwanag, and editing/VFX by Randall Kamradt. The PSA emphasizes the importance of AAPI participation in the voting process and shares key datapoints from the 2022 U.S. Census: over 24 million AAPI individuals lived in the United States, with two-thirds
of those eligible to vote. This digital campaign is a reminder that every vote counts in keeping democracy alive.
The Filipino Voter Empowerment Project is dedicated to increasing voter participation and political engagement in the Filipino and broader AAPI communities. Please visit Fvep.org for any questions or information on getting registered to vote, getting a mail-in ballot, or getting involved for your community
SAN DIEGO, CA -- Mabuhay!
Olivia Rodrigo, the Grammywinning singer/songwriter with Filipino roots made her firstever concert in the Philippines a memorable one, not just for her music but also for her remarkably affordable ticket prices.
Fans in Manila were ecstatic as all tickets for the October show at the Philippine Arena, part of her “Guts” World Tour, are priced at a mere 1,500 Philippine pesos (around $27), a decision Rodrigo’s team made to ensure wider accessibility.
“I’m soooo excited to visit the Philippines for the first time,” Rodrigo shared on Facebook, adding that all proceeds will benefit the non-profit, “Fund 4 Good which is dedicated to supporting women’s rights globally.
The response has been overwhelming, with over 700,000 people reportedly queuing for tickets. “1,500 pesos to see Olivia Rodrigo?? Is this true?? If yes?
I’m definitely coming!” exclaimed one fan on Facebook, while another expressed gratitude: “Such a treat and thanks Olivia for making it so affordable for Filipinos!”
Rodrigo’s connection to the Philippines runs deep. As a child actor, she spoke about her Filipino heritage and her great-grandfather’s journey to the U.S. She also shared her love for Filipino food, particularly “lumpia.” This shared heritage has resonated with her Filipino fans, some of whom are calling the low-ticket prices a “presyong kababayan” or fellow Filipino price.
In an earlier interview with Rolling Stone, Rodrigo expressed admiration for the Filipino community stating: “People there are so welcoming and hospitable and awesome…Filipino people ride for other Filipino people.”
No wonder, the FilipinoAmerican singer and award-winning artist Olivia Rodrigo felt “so Filipino” during the Philippine stop of her “Guts” World Tour concert held at the globe’s largest indoor arena in Bulacan last Saturday, Oct. 5.
With over 55,000 fans at the Philippine Arena, Olivia showed off a tank top with the phrase “Pinoy Pride,” to which she described performing in the country as a dream fulfilled.
“At this point of the show, this is where I announce the song ‘So American,’ (but) tonight with you guys, I’m kind a feeling so Filipino,” the pop star declared, introducing her hit song.
As I’ve stated earlier above, the ticket for the much-anticipated concert was sold at P1,500 for the arena’s floor standing and seated sections. All were sold as
“Silver Star Tickets,” meaning exact locations were hidden when purchased.
The concert proceeds will go to “Jhpiego Philippines” – a nongovernmental organization that aims to improve women’s health in disadvantaged and crisis-stricken areas.
“Tonight is also extra special because I believe this is the biggest show I’ve ever played in my whole entire life,” the singer noted. “I am seeing more people than I’ve ever seen.”
Olivia expressed her disbelief at the large crowd that attended her concert, highlighting the effort fans put into their outfits. She cited one fan who wore an LED dress that lit up.
“You guys are the most gorgeous ever, you’re so loud and so gorgeous, (and), you guys are wearing such cute little outfits,” she remarked.
A day before her concert, Olivia enjoyed famous Filipino dessert “Halo-halo” and was spotted visiting the tourist destination, “Intramuros” in Manila.
Olivia’s father is Filipino and her mother is American-Irish.
She rose to fame after the release of her hit song, “Drivers License” in January 2021. It was the Best Pop Solo performance at the 2022 Grammy Awards and was nominated for Song of the Year, too. She also bagged the Best New Artists award.
Before playing in the Philippines, Olivia staged her concert in countries of Europe, America and Asia, such as Spain, Japan, and Canada among others.
Her next stop will be an eightnight concert series starting on Oct. 9 in various sites across Australia. Well, done, awesome “Kababayan”!
We’re all so proud of your success, too!!
Moving on: Oh, my God (OMG!), another Filipino?
A promotional teaser for the upcoming 26th season of the American TV reality competition series “The Voice” featured a “kababayan” of ours by the name of Sofronio Vasquez – getting all the coaches to turn their chairs during his audition – the quickest chair turn in the show’s history, as they all attest!
The Voice Season 26 Coach Michael Buble thinks Filipino 4-Chair Turn Artist Sofronio Vasquez of our beloved old homeland – the Philippines – has, well, “The Voice.”
We met 31-years-old Vasquez at the Season 26 premier of the hit show last September 23. He explained that he grew up in a poor area in his hometown of Mindanao. He shared a one-room house with his parents
If an American prelate will be the next choice in the conclave, easily, Cardinal Tobin’s myriad albeit important roles in the Roman Curia makes him a favorite. Tobin is a bridge builder and much like the sitting pope, he has his ear to the ground. He puts emphasis on youth and vocations that speak well for the future of the church.
His administrative multiple appointment in the Roman Curia makes him an insider, a company man who knows the Vatican from inside out including the papal diplomatic strategies. He, however, is a principled man. He stood up against Pope Benedict, whom he owed his many previous appointments to, when the pope wanted the U.S. nuns investigated for being too liberal. He said no with an exclamation point and was subsequently reassigned back to the U.S. and out of Rome.
Pope Francis is also fond of him because Tobin, the pope implied, is a shepherd with the “smell of his sheep.” Tobin’s value, however, is that of someone who would defend
and three siblings, and he viewed singing – which he chooses doing at a young age because “karaoke is like the Olympics” in the Philippines –as his way out of poverty. He first attempted to compete in a Filipino TV singing competition series but his father died of kidney failure in 2018 forcing him to step in as the breadwinner of the family. Now, though, he’s in America with a chance to sing and, potentially to support his family back home.
“I really want to be somebody who can help my family back there,” Vasquez said. “If I get a chair turn, it’s going to be big for my family and help me provide a life they deserve.”
The “Tawag Ng Tanghalan” alum got more than a chair turn as he sang
INTERNATIONAL MUSICAL EVENTS
“I’m Goin’ Down” an R&B song first performed in 1976 by the soul group Rose Royce and famously covered by Mary J. Blige. He’d barely let out his first note when Snoop Dogg slammed down on his button to turn
his chair. Buble, Reba McEntire and Gwen Stefani followed in that order in quick succession.
Sofronio finished his spectacular performance to the raucous applause of the audience and a standing
Jesse T. Reyes Filipino Potpourri
ovation from the coaches.
Upon introducing himself from the Philippines, Sofronio got another cheer from the crowd and an excited reaction from Michael.
“I could not hit my button fast enough,” Reba uttered. “Your voice is like butter. It is so easy on the ears but your soulfulness touched my heart. You got the whole package.”
To stress her pitch, Reba mentioned her mentee Asher HaVon, who was the most recent winner and the fifth African-American male and first openly gay person to win. HaVon even earned Reba her first win as a coach on the show.
Gwen praised Sofronio’s “Grammy” performance, “It felt like somebody that knows God gave them the gift and they’re just trying it on this stage to show everybody.”
Gwen conveyed she could help the Filipino musician to find the right music for him if he chooses her team.
Michael began his pitch by saying the Filipino word for gratitude, “Salamat” and talked about his relationship with the Philippines. Buble said it makes him adore Sofronio even more, “Your people are such beautiful people. I can’t even imagine how proud you’re gonna make them.”
He ended by admitting Sofronio had something inherently beautiful when it comes to music that it gave him goosebumps.
the pope’s policies, especially migration from Latin America and would rally around the pope’s choice for the papacy. Besides, the Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey services a million and a quarter Catholics. Tobin’s leadership will be needed there especially with regards to immigration issues from south of the border.
Of course, there are bishops of bigger archdioceses in the U.S. that the Holy Father named to the College of Cardinals but some of them have snubbed for a reason.
The recent consistory where the pope named 21 new cardinals did not include an American. Mexican born Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles leads the largest diocese in the country with 5 million Catholics. His bonafides would have made him an important player in Pope Francis’ strategy.
He, however, was one of the few bishops who were at the forefront of the divisive abortion issue in the U.S. Gomez has been passed over in nine consistories under Francis. Another conservative bishop is
Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco. Cordileone even made national news for denying the Eucharist to then Speaker Nancy Pelosi despite warnings from the Vatican. Both were bypassed by the pope in the last three consistories.
There are currently 10 American cardinals among the 124 eligible to vote in a conclave. Pope Francis has created six of them: Cardinals Blase Cupich of Chicago; Joseph Tobin of Newark, New Jersey; Wilton Gregory of Washington, D.C.; Robert McElroy of San Diego; Kevin Farrell, prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life; and Robert Prevost, prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.
Next year, 11 more bishops will reach their retirement age of 75 and will present the pope to continue to remake the American episcopacy by awarding more red hats to American bishops. Two other bishops are in the crosshairs: Bishop Mark Seitz (Diocese of El Paso, Texas), Bishop Daniel Flores (Diocese of Brownsville, Texas), Bishop John Stowe (Diocese of Lexington, Kentucky), Archbishop Paul Etienne (Archdiocese of Seattle).
With abortion again on the ballot in the upcoming November election, bishops Gomez and Cordileone have been uncharacteristically silent. At the General Assembly of the U.S. Catholic Bishops last year, U.S. bishops again affirmed
abortion as a ‘preeminent priority’ further defying Pope Francis. In 2019, Bishop Robert McElroy of San Diego Diocese spoke out and quoted Pope Francis’s exhortation in Gaudete et Exultate (Rejoice and Be Glad) that “the lives of the poor, those already born, the destitute, the abandoned and the underprivileged, the vulnerable infirm and elderly exposed to covert euthanasia, the victims of human trafficking, new forms of slavery, and every form of rejection” were equally sacred.
Elevated to cardinal in 2022, McElroy believes that there are three preeminent priorities in the U.S. today: abortion, environment, and immigration. Clearly, McElroy’s stock has risen for the conclave when the pope picked him among bishops from bigger dioceses. McElroy’s view mirrors that of the pope who picked the name Francis to honor St. Francis of Assisi’s commitment to the poor, to social justice, and to simple living.
Cardinal McElroy is an intellectual who belongs in the “liberal wing’ of progressives who can pull an upset for the papacy.
Judging from Pope Francis’ appointments at the higher and lower level of the American Catholic Church hierarchy, it is evident that North America will be ground zero for his papal pick and important positions in the episcopacy were carefully chosen
“I basically scout for talent like yourself. I see it, put it on, make ‘em do what they do,” Snoop added.
“Get in where you fit in.”
At this point, Michael tried to rally the crowd and make Sofronio choose him as a coach, with Snoop and Gwen also making last-ditch efforts, but the teaser ended without showing Sofronio’s decision. Eventually, it was Buble, though, who won in the end. After praising the Philippines and expressing his belief again that Vasquez was going to make his country proud, Buble declared, “This is what the show was named after…It was named for you, the voice.”
“I’ve been watching the show since Season 1, and now from the Philippines, I am here,” Sofronio announced. “And I will pick Michael.”
Buble was genuinely excited to have the first member of his team – and the other Coaches seemed to think it was a truly, really good one.
“He could’ve just won ‘The Voice’ with him,” McEntire
Snoop showed how serious he was about getting picked by taking off his sunglasses, comparing the coaches’ different strengths. The rapper, who recently made sports and music lovers alike excited at his correspondent stint at the 2024 Paris Olympics, articulated his strength lies in determining an artist’s soul. Snoop also pointed out how he now owns the record label he joined over 30 years ago.
The Man who could be Pope, Final Part
as support systems and defenders of his vision for America. I believe that all these movements point to a secondary objective that is perhaps not obvious.
Catholicism is in decline in North America, no doubt, but I believe the pope sees that the horizon is full of hope to re-engage Protestant and decadent America.
His synodality push has begun the process in America and will most likely continue to evolve well into 2025 - the Jubilee Year of Hope.
The presidential election will be a big turning point if Vice President Kamala Harris wins. She will fill that piece of the puzzle previously designed for President Joe Biden, a Catholic.
The pope’s Synod on Synodality will end soon and America is primed for the next moves. Cardinal Raymond Burke and Bishop Joseph Strickland – both ultra-conservative American critics of the pope have been neutralized and sent packing.
The southern border is covered with Pope Francis’ two key appointments in Texas which covers the longest stretch of the border.
Southern California has the shortest stretch, yet it plays a significant role in the whole scheme of things. Archbishop Gomez of Los Angeles has been bypassed for the cardinal selection but was given four additional auxiliary bishops last year. San Diego, a suffragan of
the Archdiocese of Los Angeles has a cardinal and two newly minted auxiliary bishops. The diocese’s three Auxiliary bishops cover San Diego and Imperial counties that border Mexico.
San Diego has always been run by a bishop which means that one of the auxiliaries can step up if Cardinal McElroy is picked by the conclave. And why not? He could be the man. During the awarding of his red hat, it was reported that the pope had a little chat with McElroy. “How’s your health,” was the icebreaker. The 67-year-old cardinal reportedly joked that his heart was fine but not the knees. The pope joked back “and so are mine!” They shared a laugh. Pope Francis wrote three encyclicals: Lumen fidei (The Light of Faith), Laudato sí (On Care for Our Common Home), and Fratelli tutti (Fraternity and Social Friendship). These encyclicals on climate change, ecumenism and interreligious dialogue, peace and solidarity, the unequal distribution of wealth, corporate greed, slavery, human trafficking, among others; are closely related and are intended for the bishops and pastors of the world who defend the Catholic faith at the trenches. Pope Francis’ innovations rely heavily on them especially in the U.S. where opposition is strong among some of the more vocal bishops and cardinals. America is clearly a target.
"MAHAL KITA" LOOK: FilipinoAmerican singer/songwriter Olivia Rodrigo pens a message to her Filipino fans a day after her first-ever sold-out concert held at the Philippine Arena, the world's largest indoor sphere in the world.
Filipino singer Sofronio Vasquez gets the quickest 4-chair turn in "The Voice" history during the 26th season of the American hit TV reality competition series.
The Filipino mixed choir "IMUSICAPELLA" became the First Place and Grand Prix Winner of the Seventh International Baltic Sea Choir Competition held in Latvia, receiving the special "Jurmala City Cup" and a monetary prize of 3,500 Euros.
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Singers wins the Grand Prize at the 2024 Grieg International Choir Festival held in Bergen, Norway.
heart. Our language is very warm, so when we sing, we are adapting that tenderness. That is our biggest advantage when it comes to choral singing.”
concluded with a grin.
Well, our Sofronio…on behalf of your fellow “kababayans” – I wish you “fair winds and following seas” on your journey at “The Voice” –Make us all proud as “Pinoys” (or Filipino-Americans, for that matter) with your winning endeavor!
Good luck!!
Meanwhile, some say the Philippines has some of the best choirs in the world, and that Filipino choirs have recently made notable global achievements. And if you –my dear folk - are not aware of it yet – a ranking alone among the best choirs in the world is a testament to a choir’s hard work, dedication and talent.
As evidence, Kammerchor Manila saved for two years before they could travel to Wales to win the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod Competition.
The 2023 llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod Competition, an annual Welsh sing-off recently named a Filipino church-based chorus as “Choir of the World.” The July 8 contest awarded Kammerchor Manila the Luciano Pavarotti Grand Prize for their outstanding performance.
Kammerchor Manila competed under the direction of conductor Anthony Go Villanueva, performing “Cast Thy Burden Upon the Lord” by Alejandro Consolascion II and a contemporary take on the Latvian folk song “Atsalums” by Jekabj Jancevskis.
The much sought-after award reaffirms the Philippines’ prominent position in the global classical music scene. Founded in 1992, Kammerchor Manila is based on the Parish of the Hearts of Jesus and Mary in Quezon City back in the old country. Over the decades, they have established themselves as the premier choir of the Philippines with a versatile repertoire that includes traditional folk, contemporary pop and classical Madrigals. As a non-profit organization, Kammerchor Manila had to get creative with the funds, saving for two years before they were able to make the trip to the United Kingdom (UK) for the competition.
The complex logistical process of transporting a large choir required the group to secure sponsorship before they could finalize travel plans and apply for visas.
Villanueva commented of the choir: “The Philippines is known for producing good singers,” Villanueva explained. “We sing from the
(FYI: Learn more about Kammerchor Manila’s origin and accolades at their official website, then be sure to follow the awardwinning choir on YouTube, where there are dozens of high-quality recordings of choir music, both sacred and secular, to browse at your leisure.)
No doubts about it, Filipino choirs are indeed scary good!
Besting 30 other choir groups from 10 European nations (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia), Filipino Professor Fidel Calalang, Jr. and the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Singers also won the first prize in the Mixed Choir Category and second prize in the Folk Category which catapulted them to compete in the Grand Prix Finals to win the Grand Prix Award in Bergen, Norway. Actually, about 20 choirs from our beloved old homeland already won the Grand Prize/Gold in different international competitions just this year (2024) alone. Here are some of them: Los Cantantes de Manila won the Grand Prize in the Arezzo International competition in Italy. Four Filipino choirs won Gold in the 2024 Choir Games held in New Zealand: the Quezon City Performing Arts Development Foundation (this particular choir performed the Philippines’ national anthem “Lupang Hinirang” at the competition for the first time ever in over a decade and won Gold), the Miriam College High School Glee Club (bagged 2 gold medals in the Youth Choir Category and the Sacred Music Acapella Category), the Nasidi Chorale of the Mariano Marcos State University and the Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion Chorale. The Baro Children and Youth Choir also won the top prize in the 29th International Habaneras Junior Choral Contest in Spain. Another four choirs also won Gold in the 2024 Bali International Choir Festival: Anima Christi, GenSan Youth Orchestra and Choir Corporation, Cebu Normal University Chorale and Panamyaw Chorale. The Sola Gratia Chorale won the Grand Prix Championship at the 2024 Singapore International Choral Festival and qualified for the 2025 Asian Choral Grand Prix.
Just less than three weeks ago – on Sunday, September 22 – the 7th International Baltic Sea Choir Competition and the European Grand Prix (EGP) for Choral
Singing Competition stage ended in Dzintari Concert Hall with the choir “IMUSICAPELLA” from the Philippines winning the Grand Prix Prize. This particular Filipino choir has already won another EGP stage this year, so the right to participate in the EGP finals, which will be held in Tolosa, Spain, was won by the second-place winner of the competition – the mixed choir of the Latvian Academy of Culture “SOLA.”
Starting from 2024, the International Baltic Sea Choral Competition held in Jurmala has become one of the six official stages of the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing, a prestigious association in the choral music industry, placing the name of Latvia and Jurmala among the most recognized amateur choir competitions in the world.
The mixed choir “IMUSICAPELLA” from our old homeland under the leadership of conductor Tristan Calliston Ignacio became the First Place and Grand Prix winner of the Seventh International Baltic Sea Choir Competition, receiving the special “Jurmala City Cup” and a monetary prize of 3,500 Euros. The second place and a monetary prize of 2,000 Euros was won by the domestic mixed choir “SOLA” led by conductor Kaspars Admasons. The third place and a monetary prize of 1,000 Euros was won by another participant from Latvia – the mixed choir of the University of Latvia “JUVENTOS” led by conductor Valdis Tomsons.
Incidentally, the Filipinos’ “IMUSICAPELLA” choir was also bestowed the “Audience Award.”
As I have indicated earlier above, the 7th International Baltic Sea Choir Competition took place last September 20 to 22 in Jurmala, in the Dzintari Concert Hall, and gathered choir groups from eight countries of the world – Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Spain and Asia’s representative - the Philippines. Congratulations to all other Filipino choirs who have won in various international choral competitions this 2024 and of whom I might have not known about prior press time and so missed mentioning right here!
We - your fellow “Pinoys” and the rest of the choral community back in our beloved, old homeland as well as here in our adopted “good, old U.S. of A”. are proud and delighted to witness your success.
Way to go, “kababayans”!
Mabuhay ang Korong Pilipino!! I say to God be the Glory! Amen!!
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Spiritual Life
Dealing with crisis in your life
The death of someone you love, a painful loss of a job or a home, a divorce, an injury or illness, bankruptcy, or the revelation of some shocking unwanted news, are situations which invariably cause so much distress and grief. Your world has fallen apart and you wonder how you will ever get through the succession of sad days ahead of you, You may feel your life has been so overturned you worry how you will survive. To whom can you turn for comfort?
What resources can you draw upon? Are there coping strategies that you can learn? Is there any way you can bypass grief and sorrow?
In his article on "Finding Strength o Survive a Crisis or Tragedy", Eugene G. Wheeler, a licensed clinical social worker, offers these tips:
1. Allow yourself to grieve. You must fully experience your grief in order to be fully healed. the purpose of giving is to help you get to the point where you can remember without the pain.
Grieving means letting yourself feel the anguish - not suppressing it, It means sharing it, talking about it, and allowing yourself to go through the various stages that grief encompasses which may include shock, denial, guilt, anger, depression, and finally acceptance of the situation and moving on to he next phase of life.
Unexpressed sorrow may come out in physical symptoms. depression, or the inhibition of other emotions such as love and joy, You cannot choose to shut down a particular segment on the continuum of your emotions without risking shutting down
All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. 'Isn't this Joseph's son?' they asked. (Luke 4:22)
Jesus was more qualified to be a carpenter than the Son of God in the view of religious leaders and the common people of his day. He was also becoming known as a rabbi who thought and did things "outside the box." He was an unusual mixture of the earthly common man who did daily work just like his other villagers in Nazareth. So, when the public ministry side of his life began to surface, the first observations were, "Isn't this Joseph, the carpenter's son?"
Aurora S. Cudal-Rivera
My Personal Testimony
a much larger portion of your personality. So allow yourself to feel and to express your feelings. Painful though that may be, eventually you will come through the experience more alive, without deadening your capacity to feel.
2. Seek help from a friend. One of the most basic human fears is the fear of abandonment, Stripped of all its other definitions, a friendship affirms that we will not be abandoned, The first gift of friendship is companionship, which is the knowledge that one will not be abandoned. The second is a gift of hope. A good friendship affirms that good things can still take place no matter what the magnitude of the loss.
3. Consult experts to help you care for yourself - physically, emotionally, spiritually. Seek help from your clergy person and your faith community for spiritual crisis or simply for emotional support, Because traumatic periods in life can be extremely physically stressful, you need to pay special attention to your health, and may want to see your doctor for a checkup.
4. Cultivate hope. Norman Cousins describes the will to live
as the "ignition system to the motor that turns on the voltage and sets the stage for progress."
Now is the time to rekindle your will and purpose by reviewing what you have in your life that has, or could have, meaning. Do you have people whom you care about deeply? Can you motivate yourself to take better care of yourself?
Are you willing to examine your inner dialogue and work on turning any negative messages into more positive ones?Allow God to reach you by being receptive to the divine presence, Where human efforts fall short, God will take up with you and will accompany you faithfully on your journey from darkness to light.
5. Let go of the past. There is a time to grieve and a time to let go.
Appreciating what you have in the present depends on your ability, at some point, to relinquish the pain of the past. When reviewing your losses is no longer helpful, you need to take control of your response to the crisis.
In time you can view crisis as an opportunity for learning and growth. You will rekindle hope and faith and move confidently into a new chapter of your life.
Blessings Flow God is with you
Danny Hernaez From Whom
Satan does not want Jesus in the workplace because that is where the authority lies to change a workplace, city or nation. God desires you to bring His presence with you into the workplace every day. Do not let the enemy of your soul shame you into alienating your faith from your work.
This is not unlike what happens when God calls you or I into a more public ministry. "Isn't that John, the CPA, or Bill the restaurant manager, or Susie the bank executive?" The first question among our critics is "Where did John, Bill, or Susie get religion?"
The religious spirit in the community reveals itself in many ways. The religious spirit can best be defined as an agent of Satan assigned to prevent change and maintain the status quo by using religious devices. The religious spirit seeks to distort a genuine move of God through deception, control and manipulation. It was the primary force against Jesus designed to intimidate and turn His relationship with God into a set of rules and regulations.
Today, ask Jesus to go with you. The two of you just might be the team to bring someone out of slavery and bondage.
Heavenly Father, I come before Your throne, today, and I speak this blessing upon this congregation: May the Lord keep you and may the Lord make His face to shine upon you; may the Lord be gracious unto you and place His countenance upon you, and may the Lord give you His peace. Lord God, I ask You in the name above every name, that You open up the windows of heaven and pour out divine provision upon every one of your children.
Heavenly Father, in this time of economic peril, let them have the best of things in the worst of times, and let them know that it comes from the divine source of Jehovah Jireh, their provider. I
speak health and healing to every physical body. I come against every form of infirmity; I come against every form of disease; I come against every malady in the name of Jesus Christ and I declare that they are cursed at the root and that the blessing of divine health freely flows into the lives of this congregation.
Lord, I speak peace to every life that is in torment, for Your name is Jehovah, Shalom, our Peace. I give You praise, Father, that the enemy has been defeated and the peace of God has now healed every broken heart. Every sorrow is lifted right now; every burden and yoke, it is destroyed because You, O Lord, are the Joy in the morning; You, O Lord, are more than enough; You, O Lord, are our strength and our song, and we magnify Your Holy name. I thank You, that You are our Righteousness; You are our Shepherd; You are our divine Giver of life. Let the power of this blessing rest upon you and in you and be imparted by you when you use your words in the authority of Jesus' name. Amen. dhernaez1@aol.com <(((><
Greetings in the Lord!
Today is the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Last Sunday the readings in our Eucharistic celebration focused on the permanence of the bond of marriage validly contracted by two mature and responsible faithful. This is what our church doctrine teaches as the fundamental element of indissolubility that goes along with the two other characteristics of a valid Catholic wedding, namely unity and fecundity. I mentioned this once more because our Church leaders, now convened in Rome, have started the final meeting of the synod, which I hope will include deliberations on the role of the family in the church and the world today. There are current problematic situations that involve difficulties affecting many of our faithful in the world. These problems continuously attack the values of family life. However, I hope and pray that our pastoral leaders would be inspired to design the proper means to address these current challenges, but in a way that would still be faithful and obedient to the will and commandment of Jesus to his faithful and our church.
This leads me to share with you my reflections on the gospel reading of today’s celebration. I would like to share with you the reason for being always faithful and obedient to our Master. The question of the young man in the gospel, “Master how do I gain eternal life?” is a question that is timeless, trans cultural and universal. It goes beyond the question of not only the mode in gaining eternal life, but even
inquiring whether there is eternal life at all. What is eternal life?
The answer of Jesus in the Gospel today did not explicitly present his description of eternal life nor the affirmation of its existence, but a radical challenge to the young man, and to all who are inquiring about the reality of eternal life and how to obtain it. Jesus clearly affirmed that there is a need to follow Him in order to gain a priceless treasure worth leaving everything, possession, family relations and even life itself. This is how important the message of the gospel today offers us to consider. The answer to the question of the existence of eternal life and the ways and means in order to obtain it may only be fully understood and lovingly accepted once a person would open oneself to the teachings of Jesus, his life story and responding to his constant invitation to follow him. Indeed it is not strictly doing the commandments that are normative and effective in the formation of conscience and systematic organization of social relationship
among human persons and even with God that truly matters. Jesus did not hesitate to pronounce to the young man, although tenderly and lovingly, “you are lacking in one thing. Go sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” Following Jesus matters and is not easy for those cannot get rid of not only material possessions, but everything else just to make Him the center of one’s life. This is not a purely human act because humanly speaking the whole reality is beyond comprehension, but “all things are possible with God.” This is the main reason why, for the followers of Jesus who would like to gain eternal life, there is truly an urgent need to always strive painstakingly to know his will, faithfully do his will in humble trust and filial obedience. The institution that has become the focus of this challenge is the family, one chosen by God from the beginning of time, as the efficient medium to manifest clearly the reality of His existence in the world and proclaim concretely his message of salvation to all of humanity. Let us pray for the success of the Synod of Bishops in Rome. Let us seek the intercession of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary whose devotion our church encourages us to ardently pray during the month of October so that we may not only know that there is really and truly eternal life and also do what it takes to gain it. Follow Jesus, lovingly and faithfully, now and forever.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION
United States of America is an Ideal, it is a goal to be attained. We are united in our shared values of Freedom, Justice and Equality. We are not however perfectly united; we are an imperfect Union. The history of the United States is replete with stories of building a more perfect Union. Our goal as citizens of this great Nation is for us to do our part in forging a stronger Union and this a constant never ending effort. The United States is like an edifice which is being built brick by brick with each citizen doing his part.
In the pursuit of our sacred goal, we need to deal with some issues which would define our society, among them the issues of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). How we respond to these issues would help determine the strength of our unity as a Nation.
No man is an island. We accomplish our goals by working together as a group. It could be any group; the family, school, church, compony, community or the whole nation. Together as a group, we can attain greatness by rightfully dealing with issues related to DEI.
The overall goal of DEI is simply to enable each and every citizen to realize his fullest potential and become productive member of society. With DEI, the nation would be able to harness the talent of every citizen for the common good. It is a formula of attaining greatness as a Nation.
Let us first consider the reality of DIVERSITY. Each individual is unique gifted with some talents. This nation being a nation of immigrants is largely diverse with over 350 different languages spoken nationwide. A CEO who is aware of this would see to it that “No talent is left behind.” He/She will draw policies which will cast a wide net and broaden engagement. He/She is not a top down manager because he/ she is willing to hear and consider the input of everyone including those belonging to the lowest ladder of the organizational structure. I had been a classroom teacher for the most part of my life. Knowing that my students have diverse talents, my challenge was how to nurture their creativity. If our lesson is project based, they would work as a group. I would make clear the goal of the project but I do not tell them how to do it. The most I can do is to give them some guidelines but I leave it to their creativity and figure out how to do the finish product. What I get are different versions of the project each beautiful in its own unique way. One of the reasons for America’s greatness is its leadership
in the field of Research. This happens because America provides the right atmosphere for the diverse talents of its citizens to bloom and prosper continually pushing the boundaries of knowledge resulting to new products to raise the quality of life. Probably it is only in America where great ideas are conceived in the garage which eventually result in a product which alter our lives forever.
EQUITY is another word in the mix. America is great because it is a land of opportunity. Unfortuately, not everyone is given an equal chance to succeed in life. Those who are born into this world who have less in life, the newly arrived immigrant, the physically handicapped are among those who need help for them to advance. Equity is concerned with providing fairness in opportunity and advancement. The idea is to level the playing field for every one to advance. The Least, the Last and the Lost members of our society are the most vulnerable and they need help in their effort to uplift the quality their lives. If you are the CEO of an organization, you might need to review your policies and eliminate if need be barriers to making your employees more effective and efficient because these are barriers for possible advancement. It might even surprise you to discover that your policies may not match your actual practice! On the national level, the goals of Equity are generally attained through education and training. Each and every citizen is called upon to advance the cause of Equity. My wife Sally and I happen to be among the pioneers the highly successful Filipino Language Program of San Diego. One time, we had as one of our students, a newly arrived 15 year old immigrant from the Philippines. Initially she was shy not wanting to say much in English because she was very conscious of her accent. We encouraged her to join our Dance Troupe where she became one of the star dancers of Filipino Folk Dances. Gradually she gained confidence and leadership skills. Her family was financially challenged so Ginang Sally Idos was one of those who wrote a strong letter of recommendation for her to earn a college scholarship. To cut a long story short, she became a teacher of Filipino just like us but she is no ordinary classroom teacher. She is doing an incredible job that in 2020, the California Language Teachers Association (CLTA) honored as an Outstanding Teacher in California! We share with the pride and the honor. It happened because she
had teachers who believe in Equity which helped paved the way for opportunity to advance in her stature in life. Stories like this are not isolated. They are all over the American scene. Then comes INCLUSION. Inclusion is concerned with community building. It is important for everyone in the group to feel welcomed and that they belong to the group. There is such a thing as Team Spirit the belief that if one member falters, the whole group suffers the belief that a Team which is strongly united in the pursuit of it Mission can be a formidable one. If you are a CEO, team building could be your biggest challenge because Inclusion is concerned with Retention and Sustainability. Constant turnover could be a danger sign for an organization. As a father, I look at myself as a leader in my family and through the years I have endeavored with the help of the Almighty to build a family strongly united in Love and in Faith. On the national level, let us never forget that we are a nation of immigrants. Anything at all that will disparage the immigrants is to negate the notion which defines the identity of this great Nation. The ultimate goal of DEI is nation building. In our effort to build a stronger Union, it is important that every citizen is a believer of DEI. The whole concept has a ripple effect. It starts with an individual who puts into practice the concepts of DEI, then it goes to the family, to the school, to community groups, the workplace and eventually the whole nation. We dare say that if the concepts of DEI are put into practice, we will have a stronger Union, a much stronger United States of America.
POSTSCRIPT: I would like to acknowledge the assistance of my daughter, Lady Lou V. Idos who worked with the Biden Administration on issues related to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Fr. Agustin T. Opalalic
Ni Salvador S. Idos
Salvador S. Idos
Dispose of Unwanted Prescriptions at City’s Drug Take Back Day Oct. 26
CHULA VISTA, CA -- The Chula Vista Office of Sustainability, in partnership with the Chula Vista Police Department and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, will be hosting the 27th semi-annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, October 26, at the John Lippitt Public Works Center, 1800 Maxwell Road. The free event is open to all. Participants are invited to drop off unwanted, unused, or expired prescription drugs for safe disposal. Prescription pills and patches are acceptable for disposal. Pet prescription pills will also
be accepted for disposal. Needles and liquids of any kind will not be accepted. Disposals are anonymous, and no RSVP is required to participate.
Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a national semi-annual event organized by the U.S. Department of Drug Enforcement Administration. In April 2024, the events collected 670,136 lbs. of prescription drugs at 4,869 sites across the country. The initiative addresses prescription drug abuse and safety hazards that can come from incorrect prescription drug disposal. The City of Chula Vista has been participating in the event since it began in 2010.
Prescriptions that are improperly disposed of can lead to environmental and public safety hazards. In addition to the Prescription Drug Take Back Day, check out the U.S. Department of Drug Enforcement Administration yearround drug collection site database for information on where else to dispose of medications.
IN LOVING MEMORY
August 14, 1930 – September 28, 2024
Mithi Navarro Acierto, Sr. a beloved husband, father, and grandfather was born in Cavite City, Philippines. Originally from Ilocos Norte Vigan, Ilocos Norte Sur, Cavite City, Subic Bay and Olongapo City, Philippines. Mithi Sr. started working for the U.S. Federal Civil Service in Olongapo City, Philippines. In America, he retired HT1 US Military Veteran, Department of the Navy for 30 years. He served 3 wars: World War II, Korean and two tours in Vietnam. His military career was a shipfitter which specialized in repairing ships and submarines. During his active duty, he was called to duty to work for the Nuclear Power Plant in San Onofre when it first opened up as a Nuclear Power Plant Welder and educated young aspiring welders the trick of the trade on welding. Mithi Sr. worked for the Public Works Center for the Military as a Federal Civil Service employee which he retired after 20 years. In between that time frame, he also joined the U.S. Merchant Marine. During and after his service, Mithi Sr. continued to demonstrate his commitment to the community and brotherhood as a Masonic member of the California FreeMason Silver Gate Three Stars Lodge / Southwest Lodge and Fil-Am Community organizations. Mithi Sr. was a devoted family man, cherished by his loving wife, Beatriz B. Acierto, and his children: Marissa Acierto, Mithi Acierto Jr. (Maria), and Maribeth A. Sapinoso (Rolando); Grandkids: Michael P. Acierto Rodriguez, Alec Acierto, Ariana Acierto, Amara Acierto, Rodney Sapinoso, and Ryan Sapinoso; Great grandchild: Zoie Hera Kuzbari. His wisdom, his comical humor and quiet strength will be missed by all
MROSE
Continued from page 1
and families whose lives MRose touched came together to express their gratitude—not only for the positive impact she had on their own lives but also for inspiring them to carry forward her legacy of kindness and support.
who had the privilege of knowing him.
In addition to his family, his past time was playing the harmonica and being pentalingual due to his fluency in several languages: Spanish, Tagalog, Chavacano, Japanese and English. He will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty to his friends, his dedication to service, and his ability to make a difference in the lives of others. His legacy of love, honor, and duty will live in the hearts of his family, friends and the 6th families.
Mithi Sr. funeral services will be on October 24th on a Thursday at Chapel of the Roses at Glen Abbey with a 5 p.m. Mason tribute ceremony following the Deacon's and Pastors from several churches and October 25th on Friday at 11:30 a.m. at St. Michael's Church following the burial at Glen Abbey with military honor, flag and gun salute. Reception to be announced after.
The Acierto Family want to express deep gratitude to all that was with him at the time of death, praying and even when he was alive and well. We are eternally grateful. Thank you to Unicare, VAMC La Jolla doctors and health care, PV Rehab, Balboa hospital, Bridge and Filipino Press for all your kindness. Much Love.
MRose was also one of the first fellows of the Southern Area International Languages Network (SAILN). According to G. Ador Idos, "[SAILN] taught us how to teach a language," showcasing MRose's invaluable contributions to language education. Moreover, her leadership revitalized the CTFLC, where her insight in establishing the role of president-elect ensured a seamless transition of leadership and strengthened the organization. She also spearheaded the development of the Filipino 7-8 Honors curriculum in collaboration with the teachers from CTFLC, which greatly enhances and strengthens Filipino language and culture programs. Her steadfast dedication to advancing Filipino language programs continues to shape equitable learning opportunities for students and educators throughout California. MRose’s enduring legacy lives on in the countless lives she has touched, both inside and outside the classroom, and her influence continues to resonate across the educational community. ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A JOB?
Happy Filipino -American History Month from Southwestern College led by Dr.Mark Sanchez, (3rd from left)Superintendent/President and team Sofia Robitaille, Patie Bartow, Zaneta Encarnacion, Kris Galicia-Brown and Genesis Lastrella-Quicho (Courtesy photo)