PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
STATEWIDE COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Compiled by AMELIA CASAMINA CABATU
Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a community leader and a familiar face, often hosting community events and celebrations. She is a veteran radio announcer and hosts the “FIL-AM COURIER COMMUNITY HOUR on 1270 KNDI Radio every 1st Sunday of the month. In addition to other affiliations, Amelia is the former Chair of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii. She owns and operates an adult daycare business and is happily married to Arnold Cabatu. They live in Salt Lake and are blessed with one daughter, Armay. Please send your event information to acmina808@gmail.com or call her at (808) 282-2033.
OAHU FEBRUARY 1, 2017 Job Quest Job Fair hosted by WorkForce/ JobQuest Hawaii. 10:00 AM-3:00 PM; Neal Blaisdell Center 777 Ward Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96814. Now in its 20th year, the one day event has helped connect thousands of job seekers to the next step in their careers. General Admission $3, Military, Seniors & Students $1 FEBRUARY 3-5, 2017 Hawaii Jaycees Annual Year End Convention hosted by the Filipino Junior Chamber. February 3rd-Miami Vice Friday Night Social at Hokua, 1288 Ala Moana Blvd. 6:00 PM9:00 PM Food, BBQ and swimming are available. February 4th-Competition & Training at UH Manoa 8:30 AM-1:30PM; Training & Check-In: Executive Dining Room, Competition: Room 203E; Breakfast & lunch will be provided. February 4th 80’s Prom Night Newtown Estates Recreational Center - Upstairs Lounge (98-456 Kaahele St. #A, Aiea); 6:00 PM-9:30 PM; Dinner provided & BYOB; February 5th - Hawaii Jaycees State Meeting Ward Warehouse Upstairs; Conference Room (1050 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu) 9:00 AM-12:00 PM; Contact Person: Kristane Gaspar from Filipino Junior Chamber at krs808@gmail.com FEBRUARY 12, 2017 Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI 1270 AM Radio. 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on to www.kndi.com and/or www.filamcourier. com and Social Media FB Page Fil-Am Courier with your host Amelia Casamina Cabatu. For more info call Amelia at (808) 282-2033
FEBRUARY 16-26, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii 27th (FCCH) Annual Filipino Trade Mission to the Philippines. The trade mission aims to strengthen the business opportunities between Hawaii and the Philippines. Planned itinerary includes visits to Manila, Davao, Laoag, Vigan, Candon, and Baguio City. Official Travel Agency is Noble Travel Teresita Noble 808-244-4609. Contact Persons: Paul Alimbuyao 754-8691, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 FEBRUARY 26, 2017 The Lady in Red Ball 2017, Do you fit this shoe? Find out if you’re The Red Cinderella, Dole Ballrooms at Iwilei. 6:30 PM; For more information contact persons are: Mimi Gozar 312-0778, Ailyn Lum 226-1228, Rose Pedronan 392-2550, Amy Delacruz 841-0563 MARCH 5, 2017 Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI 1270 AM Radio. 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on to www.kndi.com and/or www.filamcourier .com and Social Media FB Page Fil-Am Courier with your host Amelia Casamina Cabatu. For more info call Amelia at (808) 282-2033 MARCH 10 - 12, 2017 The 23rd Honolulu Festival, Hawaii’s Premier Cultural Event. Activities includes: March 10, 2017 International Friendship Gala 6:00 PM Hawaii Convention Center, March 11, 2017 Craft Fair and Cultural Performances Hawaii Convention Center, March 12, 2017 Craft Fair at the Convention Center with a Grand Parade on Kalakaua Avenue. The Philippine Consulate is in partnership with Philippine Airlines, Congress of Visayan Organization (COVO), Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) and the
FilCom Center for a bigger, colorful, and culturally-rich Philippine participation. For more information visit their website at http:/ /www.honolulufestival.com MARCH 24, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament. Ewa Beach Golf Club 91-050 Fort Weaver, Road Ewa Beach Hawaii. The proceeds from the tournament will fund the Foundation’s scholarship program. Looking for interested players. Contact Persons: Eddie Agas 7833327, Jack Legal 284-6832, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090 APRIL 8, 2017 Annual commemoration of the Araw Ng Kagitingan coordinated by the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu in cooperation with the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. 9:00 AM11:00AM; Contact Persons: Cecilia Villafuerte 780-4985, Philippine Consulate General Honolulu 595-6316 APRIL 15, 2017 Filipino Women’s Club of Hawaii Foundation (Formerly known as the Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club) Annual Terno Ball Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Nelly Pongco Liu 228-7808, Carlota Ader 797-4381, Mercy Mullins 226-1320 MAY 6, 2017 25th Annual Filipino Fiesta & Parade (5th Flores De Mayo) Kapiolani Park, Waikiki. 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. For sponsorship and booth information contact the Fil-Com Center Arceli Rebollido 808-680-0451 or email:filcom@filcom.org
MAY 13, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year and the Filipino Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Scholarship Awards Gala Fil-Com Center. 94-428 Mokuola Street Waipahu, HI. 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM; Contact Persons: Rocky Anguay, 387-5821, Bernadette Fajardo 3428090 JUNE 10, 2017 119th Philippine Independence Day Celebration presented by the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) in cooperation with the Philippine Consulate General, Hilton Hawaiian Village Resorts Tapa Ballroom 6:00 PM Contact Persons: Cecilia Villafuerte 7804985, Bennette Misalucha 398-5988, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Amelia Casamina Cabatu 282-2033 JUNE 23, 2017 Rotary Club of Kapolei 2017-2018 Installation of Officers and Board of Directors Fil-Com Center. 94-428 Mokuola Street, Waipahu, HI. 6:00 PM; Cost: $50.00 for Dinner, Entertainment, Door Prizes and Rotary Foundation. RSVP to Rev. Alex Vergara, RCK President at 808-5514303 or email: alex@ alexvergaraphotography.com JULY 8, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) Installation of New Officers and Board of directors. 6:00 PM; Hilton Hawaiian Village Resorts, Tapa Ballroom. Contact Persons: Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Brandon Dela Cruz 389-0517 AUGUST 27, 2017 Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Recognition Night honoring the 2017 Parents/ parent of the year, recognizing the 2017
outstanding achievements of graduating high school valedictorians in public and private schools & presentation of the continuing scholar recipients, Empress Restaurant, 100 N. Beretania St. 6:00 PM. We are currently searching for the parents/parent of the year who sacrificed to send their children (3 minimum) to college and/or universities & have attained their professional chosen careers. Contact Persons: Janice Sevilla 595-8000, Lina Longboy 421-7381, Leo Rojas Gozar 630-6268, Maggie Domingo 783-0068 SEPTEMBER 16, 2017 Filipino Women’s Civic Club (FWCC) Annual Maria Clara Ball 2017. Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Rose Galanto 688-4458, Cecilia Villafuerte 780-4985 NOVEMBER 4, 2017 Filipino Business Women’s Association (FBWA) presents the Annual Kimona Ball and the Business Woman of the Year Awards Ceremony Dole Cannery Pomaikai Ballroom. 735 Iwilei Road, Honolulu, HI. 6:00 PM; Contact Person: Elsa Talavera 358-8964
ATTENTION READERS AND LISTENERS OF THE FIL-AM COURIER COMMUNITY HOUR, THE FEBRUARY EDITION OF THE SHOW HAS BEEN CHANGED TO FEBRUARY 12, 2017 FROM 3:30 PM-5:30 PM. 1 CORINTHIANS 13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. Love is in the Air! In observance of LOVE month, the February edition of the Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on 1270 KNDI Radio will be heard on Sunday February 12, 2017 from 3:30PM-5:30 PM instead of the first Sunday of the month for February only. A great show is planned and a RENEWAL of VOWS, LOVE AND COMMITMENT for a special couple/couples will be performed by Reverand Alex Vergara. If you would like to be included in this special ceremony of love, please give your names and phone numbers to the host, Amelia Casamina Cabatu at (808) 282-2033. Log on to www.kndi.com and www.filamcourier.com and watch the special edition of the show on Facebook Live on FilAm Courier and Amelia Casamina Cabatu FB Page. Join us and lets fall in love all over again!
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 3
SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1987 PUBLISHER Mary Llanos Cordero
Are you the invisible Filipino?
MANAGING EDITOR Bennette Espineli Misalucha DIRECTOR OF DESIGN Armando Dela Cruz Busmente PRODUCTION MANAGER Alice Llanos Busmente ASSISTANT EDITOR Radiant Cordero COPY EDITOR Danielle Evangelista PHOTOGRAPHERS/GRAPHICS Brandon dela Cruz Noah Felipe Gabe de Liso Jeff Orig James Ramos COLUMNISTS Edna Alikpala Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Jesse Bacon II Nancy Bernal Cesar Bonilla Alice Llanos Busmente Amelia Casamina Cabatu Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao Zeny Muyot Angie Santiago Perfecto Yasay Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim Randy Cortez Radiant Cordero Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus Brandon dela Cruz Christian Evangelista Imelda Gasmen Veronika Geronimo Leo Gozar Ben Gutierrez Kathleen Lee Carmela Minaya Gladys Quinto Marrone Gladys Menor John Pagaragan Paola Rodelas Judy Relosimon Sandra Sagisi Nicole Velasco Jason Ubay Michi Villaruz NEIGHBOR ISLAND BUREAU Maui Kit Zulueta Jeremy Zane Big Island Mil Asuncion Jane Clement Dr. Margarita Hopkins Kauai Virgie Cruzada Liza Trinidad Marynell Valenzuela ADVERTISING SALES Marivic Aldaya Mary Cordero Annabel Cabebe Florence Tan McCollom Lydia Kamiya Joni Redick-Yundt Rudy Bautista Marynel Valenzuela CIRCULATION Florence Tan (Oahu) Ron Oshiro (Leeward Oahu) David Cordero (Maui) Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai) Milli Asuncion (Big Island) LEGAL COUNSEL Alfredo Evangelista, Esq. Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.)
THE FIL-AM COURIER is published twice a month by OAHU RELOCATION SERVICES located at 2221 Liliha St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and other material submitted. Reproduction of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am courier is forbidden without written permission. All photos submitted become the property of the FilAm Courier.
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By BENNETTE ESPINELI MISALUCHA
Dear Kababayan, I have been a quiet observer of our community for some time now and although I have written this column for almost four years, I realized that I have not really addressed you in the first person. Perhaps that is why sometimes my words may not have the impact that I had hoped it would have. Maybe that’s why you have ignored me? You may have assumed that the message was for someone else, when all along, I had you in mind. So, in that spirit, I am making it clear in this column: I am talking to YOU. Yes, hoy, yes you, my kababayan. This message is intended for you and no one else. You, who immigrated here to the United States and are now settling comfortably in your three bedroom house with a two car garage, and in Paradise, in Hawaii, no less. You, who seem to live life in a bubble, juggling life, oblivious to what is happening around you as you intentionally keep your head down, just wanting to lead a quiet existence. You, whose ties to the Mother country, the Philippines, run deep and strong such that when you talk of “home”, you actually mean the land of your birth and not Hawaii, even though you have established roots here in the Islands forty years ago. Kababayan, do you remember when you first arrived in the United States? The long trip was exhausting but the excitement buoyed you, you could feel energy in your bones. Armed with your immigration documents which you had carefully inserted in a clear plastic envelope to ensure that it remains clean and intact for the interview upon arrival at the Honolulu Airport, you breathed that crisp Hawaii air. You still
could not believe your good fortune that you were finally here. Like so many others who were petitioned by a loving sibling, or mother or father, you had waited for more than twenty years until your number came up. And as you stepped on American soil that day, you looked at the new world with wonder in your eyes, and you swore that you were going to work hard. You remember what you told yourself that time? That failure is not an option; that you did not come to Hawaii 10,000 miles only to fail. You wanted that American dream so badly you could almost taste it. You vowed that you would live that dream s o m e d a y. Do you remember how rough it was during your first year in Hawaii? The culture shock unnerved you. You struggled speaking with English, and was conscious of your accent. You were often intimidated by people of other cultures who seem to have a better command of the language. But despite the challenges, work hard you did. Over the years, no job was too difficult. You were not afraid of an honest day’s toil. You even worked two jobs for a time. And slowly you established yourself in the new land. And as the years passed, you marked your ascent with symbols of commercialism. After all, you told yourself, this is how people measure success in America. So first, you bought your first decent car. Then, the humble starter home. Then over time, more cars. More upscale homes. Congratulations! You have achieved the American dream. But kababayans, hmmm… have you? After living here in Hawaii for many years, surrounded
by all this loot, do you truly believe that you have finally “arrived”? Hmmm. Kababayan, sit down. I need to set your mind straight. Did you know that although you may be a visible uber consumer, you are invisible from a community standpoint? Sadly, you are invisible politically too. Let’s think about how this happened. Too busy at work, you do not show up at community meetings where the future of your community is being mapped out. Well, your input is not reflected anywhere. You are Invisible. Only the people who show up, count. Too busy with life, you do not vote during elections. Too bad, your choice is ignored. Only the people who cast their votes, can win. You are Invisible. So, although you may be counted physically as a number, you are invisible. There are almost 200,000 of us Filipinos in Hawaii, but the question begging to be answered, how many are visible? Do you understand what that means, kababayan? To be visible, one has to show up and get involved. If not, we are merely taking up precious space. What a great blessing we have been given to live in a great country. But there is a price to that citizenship. Being American is more than just “living in America”. We need to think we are here for the long haul. It is time we call Hawaii our “home”. Our forefathers fought so hard to be a part of the state’s history. We are obligated to ensure their sacrifices have not been in vain. What’s that? Is it too late to change, you asked. And my response, “It is never too late”.
A social psychologists, B. Klandermans, once wrote that there are three reasons why people get involved and participate in the community engagement process. They are: • Instrumentality: a desire to change circumstances • Identity: to belong to a group • Meaning: to give meaning to one’s life. Which “motivation” drives you? Whichever one it may be, please go ahead and make a change now. Be one of the invisibles to go into the light. Be counted. In this issue of the Fil-Am Courier, we are proud to feature our hard-working Filipino-American legislators on the cover, for the second year in a row. These legislators make us proud as they diligently serve the constituencies in their district. We encourage you to seek them out, share your concerns, or your hopes and aspirations. Let them know how you feel about certain issues. Support them as they strive to make a difference. Also in this issue, as the State Legislature recently marked the opening of its 29 th Legislature, we highlight three subject matters that seem to draw the greater interests amongst our community: homelessness, rail and education. Written by Kathleen Lee, our cover story will hopefully provide insights into what is at stake. Kababayan, thank you for reading my letter. May you continue to navigate your life’s journeys in an authentic way. Don’t forget to pass on your Filipino values to the children. Stay visible. Sincerely,
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
By KATHLEEN LEE ABOUT OUR COVER
This year, we continue the tradition of photographing the FilipinoAmerican elected officials who are serving at the Hawaii State Capitol. These hard working men and women work together to craft a bright future for our Islands. This beautiful photo was taken by the talented James Ramos of James Ramos Photography. He can be reached at (808) 345-3924. (clockwise from left) State Representative Della Au Belatti, Sen. Brickwood Galuteria, Rep. Romy Cachola, Sen. Will Espero, Rep. Joy San Buenaventura, Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz, Rep. Ty Cullen, Rep. Henry Aquino, Sen. Gilbert Keith-Agaran and (center) Sen. Lorraine Inouye. Not in Picture: Sen. Donna Mercado Kim Photo concept by Noah Felipe. Mahalo to Jeff Orig of Orig Media. Both Noah and Jeff may be reached at www.origmedia.com or at (808)447-9559.
It is written in the Hawaii State Constitution that “the legislature shall convene annually in regular session at 10:00 o’clock a.m. on the third Wednesday in January.” This year, Opening Day for the 29th Hawaii State Legislature kicked off on Wednesday, January 18 at 10:00 a.m. Both the Senate and House leaders outlined their
priorities to address the crucial needs of the state. Top issues mentioned were the growing rate of homelessness, increasing traffic, rising rail costs, developing the state’s technology sector, reducing the state’s prison population, and aid in dying, among many things. As of this week, approximately 3,000 bills were introduced for consideration. Legislative actions are perpetually relevant to Filipinos in Hawaii, who make up the second-largest ethnic group in the nation’s only majority-minority state. The US Census conducted every 10 years, with the latest one in 2010, indicated that about 200,000 Hawaii residents identified themselves as Filipino or of Filipino ethnicity. Hawaii’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) estimated the state’s population at a
little under 1.5 million as of July 2016. For those keeping up with the math, this translates to Filipinos/Filipino-Americans making up a significant 13 percent of Hawaii’s growing population. Here are just three of a number of significant issues that our community cares about: Homelessness To date, the state of Hawaii has the highest homeless rate in the nation – about 54 out of 10,000 residents – according to a 2016 report on “The State of Homelessness in America” by the National Alliance to End Homelessness. About 100 bills introduced for this session had homelessness as a focal point. Solutions presented by the bills ranged from imposing residential fees and taxes to go towards assisting the state’s homeless population,
creating task forces, to prioritizing funding for the nationally recognized “Housing First” program. Some neighborhoods in urban Honolulu with high Filipino populations and businesses like Kalihi, have been significantly affected by the homelessness crisis. Encampments like the ones by Kapalama Canal and parts of Iwilei have triggered the concern of residents and shop owners alike regarding the area’s increased amounts of trash including syringes, and illegally parked vehicles. Addressing the homelessness issue has been a declared a top priority for both Democrat and Republican leaders of the Hawaii State Legislature. Rail A little under two dozen bills are aimed at addressing the completion of the Honolulu Rail Transit Project.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 5
Proposed ideas through this year’s introduced bills include private/public partnerships and funding, a focus on transit-oriented development (TOD) initiatives, and calls for clearer, more transparent plans for the future of one of the nation’s largest and most expensive transit projects. With rail currently estimated to cost up to $9.5 billion, both the Senate and the House have yet to agree on how to assist the City and County of Honolulu with financing the biggest public works project in the history of Hawaii. The city is currently under pressure from the Federal Transit Administration to provide an explanation on how the project will be funded, or risk losing $1.55 billion in federal funds. Some legislators have pointed out that the city is unable to provide funding for the project until it removes an ordinance that requires rail funding to only come from the GET or the federal government. DBEDT statistics indicate that significant Filipino populations are concentrated in the Central and Ewa regions of Oahu where the rail is being built, and thus are the populations largely affected by its construction. “Pamantasan” Bill Also filed were two noteworthy bills pertaining to Philippine courses and Filipino students: HB902 and SB676. Both bills “appropriate general funds for six fulltime positions for the UH Pamantasan Council to promote access and diversity, including for programs and policies related to Philippine courses and Filipino students. ” Amy Agbayani, PhD, newly retired Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student
Diversity and Director of Student Equity, Excellence and Diversity (SEED) at UH Manoa, gave an overview of the history of the bills. “Pamantasan is a Filipino word for higher education. The Council was formed in 1987 to meet UH and state goals supporting access, diversity and inclusion. Senior executives, faculty,
staff and students at all campuses are welcome to join the Council to address issues at all UH campuses e.g. under representation of Filipino students, faculty and staff, lack of Philippine language courses on most campuses, insufficient transfer from the two-year campuses to the four-year campuses, and the need to
support partnerships between UH and the public schools, communities in Hawaii, University of the Philippines and other universities.” According to Agbayani, the Pamantasan bill was first introduced in 2014. Agbayani stated that although the request for funds are included in the UH Board of
Regents’ budget, it was not included in the Governor’s budget recommendation. Both bills request funds from the legislature, to be effective in July 2017 if passed. “This bill not only helps individual Filipinos and improve the status of the Filipino community; it is also needed to meet UH and the State of Hawaii’s target to have 55% of Hawaii’s working age adults obtain a two or four-year degree by the year 2025. At this time, only 44% of Hawaii’s working age adults hold a two or four-year degree. Only 17% of adult Filipinos have a four-year degree compared to Caucasians (42%), Japanese (35%) or Native Hawaiians (14%),” said Agbayani. “Increasing the number of college-educated Filipinos will increase the number of educated workers that the state of Hawaii needs. It is to the self-interest of Filipinos and non-Filipinos to support groups with low education and low income. No community group can improve its economic status and contribute to our multi-ethnic state without education. It is interesting to note that Filipinos in other states, particularly mainland cities, are highly educated and have high incomes. The history and experience of Filipinos in Hawaii is very different from Filipinos in continental USA,” Agbayani stated. To keep yourself informed of how bills are moving during the State of Hawaii’s 2017 Legislative Session, visit http:/ /www.capitol.hawaii.gov/.
Kathleen Lee was born in the Philippines and spent a portion of her early childhood in Baguio and Manila. She was raised in San Jose, California, and currently lives and thrives in Honolulu. She works as a senior policy advisor for a Hawaii-based consulting firm.
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
Filipino-Americans in the Hawai‘i State Legislature Compiled by RADIANT CORDERO
SENATE
DONOVAN DELA CRUZ Senate District 22 (Mililani Mauka, Waipi’o Acres, Wheeler, Wahiawa, Whitmore Villages, portion of Poamoho) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 202 Phone: 808-586-6090 Email: sendelacruz@capitol.hawaii.gov Personal Info: BA in Communications and Journalism From the University of Oregon Democrat Assumed office in 2011 Donovan Dela Cruz grew up in Wahiawa and graduated from Leilehua High School in 1991. He then went on to the University of Oregon where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies. He is currently the Director of Communications at WCIT Architects. He used to be the Director of Marketing at Watermark Publishing, an Account Supervisor at Stryker Weiner, & Yokota Public Relations, an Account Executive at McNeil Wilson Communications, and a Public Relations Coordinator at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Along with his professional and political experience, he also volunteers his time and participates in community service with the following: Leilehua High School Education Foundation as President, Advisory Council of Leeward Community College as a member, Leeward Community College Culinary Institute Board as a member, Filipino Chamber of Commerce (where he was Vice President from 2001-02), Wahiawa Lions Club as a member, and Our Lady of Sorrows Parish as a member. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Dela Cruz serves as the Majority Whip and Vice Chair of Ways and Means. Senator Dela Cruz is a member of the following committees: Education and Transportation and Energy.
WILL ESPERO Senate District 19 (‘Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, ‘Ewa by Gentry, Iroquois Point, portion of ‘Ewa Villages) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 226 Phone: 808-586-6360 senespero@capitol.hawaii.gov Personal Info BA in Business Management Seattle University Democrat Assumed office in 2000 Will Espero was born in Yokosuka, Japan and due to his father’s service in the U.S. Navy, Espero grew up in Washington, California, Virginia, Florida, Georgia, Cuba, Italy, and Japan. Espero graduated from Seattle University with a degree in Business Management. In the same year that he graduated, he moved to Hawai‘i, where he has lived until now. Prior to serving in the Legislature, he worked in the finance/banking industry, property management, in Mayor Frank Fasi’s Administration as the Executive Secretary of the Neighborhood Commission Office. He was appointed to the House of Representatives in December 1999 by Governor Ben Cayetano. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Espero is Majority Floor Leader of the Senate and serves as Chair of the Committee on Housing. Senator Espero also serves as a member of the following committees: Commerce, Consumer Protection and Health; Education; and Higher Education.
BRICKWOOD GALUTERIA Senate District 12 (Waikiki, Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, McCully, Mo‘ili‘ili)
LORRAINE R. INOUYE Senate District 4 (Hilo, Hamakua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, Kona)
Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 206 Phone: 808-586-6740 sengaluteria@capitol.hawaii.gov
Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 210 Phone: 808-586-7335 Email: seninouye@capitol.hawaii.gov
Personal Info Bachelor of Science Pacific University Democrat Assumed office in 2008 Born and raised on O’ahu, Brickwood Galuteria is of Hawaiian, Filipino, and Portuguese descent. He attended Kamehameha Schools and Pacific University. His professional life led him from being a Hawaiian Airlines account executive and tour director to an entertainer. As an entertainer, he performed at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel with Marlene Sai for three years until he formed his own group. His talent for entertainment earned him a Na Hoku Hanohano Award in 1985 for “Male Vocalist of the Year” and “Most Promising Artist.” His talent led him to radio and television with KCCN and Hawaiian 105 and local television shows such as “Hawai‘i’s Kitchen.” Galuteria has also served as the Chairman of the Democratic Party of Hawai‘i. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Galuteria serves as the Majority Caucus Leader. He is Vice Chair of the Committee on Hawaiian Affairs and a member of the following committees: Economic Development, Tourism, and Technology; Government Operations; and Ways and Means.
Personal Info Married to Vernon Inouye Three Children Democrat Assumed office in 2014 Lorraine Rodero Inouye was first elected to a seat in the Hawaii County Council in 1984. In 1990, she became Hawai‘i County Mayor, winning in a special election to serve the remainder of the term of Bernard Akana, who died in office. She served in the Hawaii State Senate from 1998 through 2008. After a hiatus, she returned to the Senate in 2014. A former hotelier, she is now involved in the family owned farm, Aloha Blooms, Inc., a 10-acre anthurium farm in Hilo. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Hilo, United Nations -- Hawai‘i Island, Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii, Waimea Outdoor Circle, Big Island Filipino Community Council, and the Pepe‘ekeo Filipino Community Association. She is a former Director of the Girl Scout Council of Hawaii and a graduate of Hilo High School. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Inouye is the Chair of the Committee on Transportation and Energy. She also serves as a member of the following committees: Water and Land; and Ways and Means.
GILBERT KEITH-AGARAN Senate District 5 (Wailuku, Waihe’e, Kahului) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 221 Phone: 808-586-7344 Email: senkeithagaran@capitol.hawaii.gov Personal Info Bachelor of Arts in History Yale University UC Berkeley Boalt School of Law Democrat Married to Kallie Keith-Agaran Prior to being a Senator, Gilbert Keith-Agaran was appointed to the House of Representatives in January 2009 to complete the unexpired term of the late Bob Nakasone. He practices law and has experience as a Chair and Deputy Director of the Hawai‘i Department of Land Natural Resources, Director of Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and as Deputy Director of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, as well as the County of Maui’s Public Works Director. Gilbert grew up in Paia and Kahului and graduated from Maui High School. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in History from Yale College and his law degree from the University of California -Berkeley’s Boalt Hall School of Law. In the Hawaii State Senate, Senator Keith-Agaran is the Chair of the Committee on Judiciary and Labor. He also serves on the following committees as a member: Higher Education; and Housing.
Radiant Cordero is the Assistant Editor and a member of the Asian American Journalists Association. Radiant was awarded “Outstanding Youth” by the United Filipino Council of Hawai‘i and “Top Outstanding Young Filipino” by the JCI Filipino Junior Chamber. Radiant attended UH Manoa where she helped in the revival of the Ethnic Studies Student Association, founded the American Studies Undergraduate Leaders, and was active in the Honors Program, and most importantly, the Katipunan Club - where she served as a Class Representative, Treasurer, Secretary, and Vice-President. In 2012, she obtained a double major: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and in American Studies. Radiant graduated with her Master’s in Public Administration degree from UH M?noa in May 2016. Currently, Radiant serves as a chief-of-staff in the City and County of Honolulu and as a Board of Director with the Epilepsy Foundation of Hawaii and a member of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii and the Kalihi Business Association.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 7
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
SENATE
HENRY AQUINO House District 38 (Waipahu) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 419 Phone: 808-586-6520 Email:repaquino@capitol.hawaii.gov Personal Info: Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from University of Hawaii - West Oahu Master’s in Communication from Hawaii Pacific University Democrat Assumed office in 2009.
DONNA MERCADO KIM Senate District 14 (Kapalama, ‘Alewa, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, portions of Halawa and ‘Aiea) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 218 Phone: 808-587-7200 Email: senkim@capitol.hawaii.gov Personal Bachelor of Arts Washington State University Democrat Assumed office (Honolulu City Counci) in 1985 Donna Mercado Kim has been active in the community for more than twenty years. She is a graduate of Farrington High School and attended the University of Hawai‘i. She graduated from Washington State University as cum laude. She has served as members on the following organizations: Kalihi Business Association, Filipino Chamber of Commerce, Hawai‘i Korean Chamber of Commerce, Moanalua Lions Club, Palama Settlement, Hawai‘i Korean Millenium Commission and Special Committee on Studying Effects of Economy on Judiciary. Kim served on the Honolulu City Council from 1984 to 2000 and represented Moanalua, ‘Aiea, and Kalihi communities as a State Representative from 1982 to 1984. In the Hawai‘i State Senate, Senator Kim previously served as the 13th Senate President overseeing the whole Senate. Currently, she serves as the Chair of the Committee on Government Operations. She is also a member of the following committees: Hawaiian Affairs; Judiciary and Labor; and Water and Land.
Henry Aquino has lived in the district in which he represents for his whole life and has served and volunteered in many aspects of his community, such as the Leeward Oahu Lions Club, Waipahu Community Foundation, Waipahu High School Alumni Association, and the Waipahu Elementary School Community Council. Aquino is married to Cyndi Aquino and together they have a son named Ethan. He is a graduate of Waipahu High School. He then went to Honolulu Community College and obtained an Associate Degree in Applied Science with a focus in Administration of Justice. After that, Henry attend the University of Hawai‘i -- West Oahu where he attained a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration. Aquino then went to Hawai‘i Pacific University where he obtained his Masters of Arts in Communications. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative Aquino is the Chair for the Committee on Transportation. The other committees that he serves as a member of are as follows: Consumer Protection and Commerce; and Housing.
DELLA AU BELATTI House District 24 (Makiki, Tantalus, Papakolea, McCully, Pawaa, Manoa) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 402 Phone: 808-586-9425 Email: repbelatti@capitol.hawaii.gov Personal Info: Bachelor of Arts in History from Princeton University Juris Doctorate from William S. Richardson School of Law Democrat Assumed office in 2007 Della Au Belatti earned her Bachelor of Arts in History from Princeton University and her Juris Doctorate degree from the William S. Richardson School of Law. Belatti is a member and participant in the following professional organizations and community activities: Steering Committee Member of Envision Hawai‘i, Programs Committee Member of Hawai‘i Women Lawyers, Director of the Young Lawyers Division in the Hawai‘i State Bar Association, Director of the William S. Richardson School of Law Alumni Association, member of the Board of Directors for the Friends of the Makiki Community Library, and a member of the Board of Directors at St. Clement’s School. Prior to becoming a State Representative, Belatti was a Research Attorney with the Hawai‘i State Senate Research Majority Office, and a Law Clerk at the Hawai‘i State Supreme Court with the Honorable Simeon R. Acoba at the Hawai‘i First Circuit Court with the Honorable Dexter Del Rosario. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative Belatti is the Chair for the Committee on Health. She also serves as a member of the following committees: Human Services and Judiciary.
Personal Info: - Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Nevada - Las Vegas - Juris Doctorate from the University of California, Hastings College of Law - Democrat - Assumed office in 2014. JOY SAN BUENAVENTURA House District 4, Puna Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 302 Phone: 808-586-6530
Originally from Manila, Joy San Buenaventura grew up in Honolulu. She graduated from McKinley High School where she was a member of the National Honor Society and the
Email: repsanbuenaventura@capitol.hawaii.gov
ROMY CACHOLA House District 30 (Kalihi Kai, Sand Island, Hickam, Pearl Harbor, Ford Island, Halawa Valley Estate) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 435 Phone: 808-586-6010 Email: repcachola@capitol.hawaii.gov Personal Info: Bachelor of Law; Masters of Law at Manuel Quezon University Democrat First assumed office in 1984 Romy Cachola is not a new player to the Legislature, nor government in itself. He was first elected to the Hawai‘i State Legislature in 1984 where he served for 16 years. He then was elected as a member of the Honolulu City Council where he served for ten years. Romy was born in Ilocos Sur, Philippines. He obtained a Bachelor of Law and Master of Law degrees from Quezon University in Manila. As a legislator, Cachola has won multiple awards such as Public Servant of the Year from Community Advocate Magazine in 1990, Outstanding Legislator Award from Hawaii Medical Association in 1999, and the Lifetime Achievement Award for Outstanding Community Service from the United Filipino Council of Hawaii in 2011. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative Cachola serves on the following committees as a member: Finance; Intrastate Commerce; Tourism; and Veterans, Military, and International Affairs, and Culture and the Arts.
student council. She then went on to the University of Nevada - Las Vegas where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. She then attended law school at the University of California, Hastings College of Law. Today, she is licensed to practice law in the State of Hawai‘i, the United States District Court of Hawai‘i and California. Joy still maintains her law practice in the Hilo Lagoon Center and is a member of the Hawai‘i State and Hawai‘i County Bar Associations, the
TY CULLEN House District 39 (Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu, Makakilo, West Loch) Hawai‘i State Capitol, Room 316 Phone: 808-586-8490 Email: repcullen@capitol.hawaii.gov Personal Info: Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from University of Hawai‘i at Manoa Master’s in Public Administration from University of Hawai‘i at Manoa Democrat Assumed office in 2011 Ty Cullen has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and a Masters in Public Administration, all from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. With his education geared for governance, Ty also has the community experience that showcases that leadership in and for his community as his passion. His experiences are diverse and range from education to civic engagement, for example, Cullen participated in the following: Board member on the Waipahu Neighborhood Board, Assistant Coach for youth football in Waikele and youth baseball, member of the Waikele Taking Action Against Graffiti (TAAG) Team, Director of the Village Park Community Association Board, tutor at Saint Joseph’s School, member of the Kahana Valley Strategic Planning, and a member of the Juvenile Justice Compliance Committee. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative Cullen is the Vice Chair for the Committee on Finance. The other committees that he serves as a member of are as follows: Energy and Environmental Protection; and Water and Land.
Hawaii Trial and American Trial Lawyer Associations and is listed in the Who’s Who in American Law. She also takes the time to volunteer with the Legal Aid Society’s SelfHelp Center, the Ku’ikahi Mediation Center and Volunteer Legal Services of Hawai‘i. In the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, Representative San Buenaventura is the Vice Chair of the Committee on Judiciary. She is also a member of the following committees: Housing; and Transportation.
PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
President Trump’s Executive Actions: Of Walls and Sanctuary Jurisdictions By RHODA YABES ALVAREZ, Esq.
On January 25, 2017, the White House released twin executive actions on the immigration policy of the Trump administration. The first on “Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements” provides for the construction of a physical wall on the Southern border and assigning operational control to the Secretary of Homeland Security to prevent all unlawful entries into the United States, including entries by terrorists, other unlawful aliens, instruments of terrorism, narcotics, and other contraband. The second on “Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States” deals with sanctuary jurisdictions and enforcement priorities to remove illegal aliens. The focal points of both executive actions are summarized hereunder.
The executive action on border security seeks to ensure national security and public safety. It aims to deter aliens who illegally enter the U.S without inspection or admission. Without inspection, these aliens are not identified and their admissibility to the U.S. is not determined by federal immigration officers. The executive action identifies members of transnational criminal organizations, sophisticated drug and human trafficking networks, smugglers and terrorist as among those who enter through this scheme. To ensure safety and territorial integrity President Trump directs his executive agencies to secure the southern border, to prevent further illegal immigration into the United States, and to repatriate illegal aliens swiftly, consistently, and humanely. The action items include the immediate construction of a
U.S. President Donald Trump displays one of the four executive orders he signed during a visit to the Department of Homeland Security Jan. 25, 2017, in Washington, D.C. They related to domestic security and to beginning the process of building a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
physical wall on the southern border, monitored and supported by adequate personnel. For the purpose, 5,000 additional border patrol agents shall be hired. Immigration officers are directed to detain individuals apprehended on suspicion of violating federal or state law, including federal
immigration law, pending further proceedings regarding those violations, to expedite determinations of apprehended individuals' claims of eligibility to remain in the United States, to promptly remove those individuals whose legal claims to remain in the United States have been lawfully rejected, after any appropriate civil or criminal sanctions have been imposed, and for full cooperation with States and local law enforcement agencies with federal agencies to enforce federal immigration priorities. In addition to the wall, additional detention facilities shall be constructed, operated and controlled to detain aliens at or near the land border with Mexico. Immigration judges will be assigned to detention facilities to expedite determinations of admissibility or removability. Aliens apprehended
for immigration violations shall be detained for illegal entry pending the outcome of their removal proceedings. The practice commonly known as "catch and release", where aliens are routinely released in the United States shortly after their apprehension for immigration violations will be terminated. The second executive action targets sanctuary jurisdictions, and illegal aliens in general, to include those who overstayed or violated the terms of their status who present a significant threat to national security and public safety, such as criminal aliens. The executive action names sanctuary jurisdictions who have provided safe harbors for tens of thousands of removable aliens as violating federal law in their attempt to shield aliens from removal from the U.S.. To ensure compliance with prompt removal of aliens with final removal orders, the executive order directs the Attorney General and the Secretary to ensure that sanctuary jurisdictions do not receive federal grants. In addition to those removable aliens described by Congress, the executive action lists the following as enforcement priorities: removable aliens who “(a) have been convicted of any criminal offense;(b) have been charged with any criminal offense, where such charge has not been resolved; (c) have committed acts that constitute a chargeable criminal offense; (d)
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 9
have engaged in fraud or willful misrepresentation in connection with any official matter or application before a governmental agency; (e) have abused any program related to receipt of public benefits; (f) are subject to a final order of removal, but who have not complied with their legal obligation to depart the United States; or (g) In the judgment of an immigration officer, otherwise pose a risk to public safety or national security. An office for Victims of Crimes of Removable Aliens shall be created to support victims and families of victims of criminal aliens. The Secretary shall identify civil fines and penalties for aliens unlawfully in the U.S. and from those who facilitate their presence in the United States. To enforce appropriate action,10,000 additional immigration officers will be hired. In both executive actions, the Secretary is directed to immediately engage with the Governors of the States, as well as local officials, to act under Section 287(g) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1357(g)). Section 287 of the INA, among others, “allows any officer or employee of the USCIS authorized under regulations prescribed by the Attorney General to interrogate, without warrant, any
alien or person believed to be an alien as to his right to be or to remain in the United States and to arrest any alien who is in violation of immigration law.” State and local officials shall be deputized to perform the duties of immigration officer for the investigation, apprehension and detention of aliens in addition to the existing Federal immigration officers. What does this mean for you and me? To avoid problems, now is a good time to apply for citizenship or to renew proof of your legal permanent resident status. For those out-of-status or over-stays, it is a good time to seek a solution to your immigration problem. For actual controversies, consult a qualified attorney. (Sources: AILA Doc. No. 17012530. (Posted 1/25/17), AILA Doc. No. 17012531. (Posted 1/25/17))
Rhoda Yabes Alvarez, Esq. is an attorney with offices in Honolulu and the Philippines. She is licensed to practice law in Hawaii, New York and the Philippines. Atty. Yabes Alvarez can be reached at 1-808-589-7380 or by email at rmyalvarez@filamlaw.com. Her Honolulu office is located at 905 Umi St. Suite 204, Honolulu, HI 96819. Visit her website at www.filamlaw.com
PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
By NANCY BERNAL
Apaulo Music Productions (Michael Paulo – Owner/Producer) presents a Smooth Jazz Concert featuring Euge Groove and Tracy Carter on February 4 at The Hawaii Convention Center – Liliu Theater at
Rocky Brown and Jordan Segundo at 53 By The Sea New Year's Eve Celebration - Ready to Perform!
Arnel Pineda
Euge Groove
8 p.m. Euge Groove is a smooth jazz saxophonist with a strong Top-40 background. Tracy Carter is a powerful and talented keyboardist, Music Director, vocalist, percussionist, songwriter, lyricist and producer. Tickets can be purchased at TIX.com or (951) 696-0184. Don’t miss out on this fantastic combination of Saxophonist Extraordinaire – Euge
Groove with the incredible pianist – Tracy Carter. •••• Adrian R’Mante (NationallyAcclaimed Actor) known for playing the role of “Esteban” in the Disney Television Show – “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody” and numerous other acting credits including “Hawaii Five0”, “CSI”, “NCIS” and more visited
Hawaii in January. In addition to his excellent acting skills, he is also known for his reputable acting program that educates aspiring young talent. Adrian held auditions in Honolulu with the goal of finding new talent and his search was successful. He was very impressed with the quality of the young actors that auditioned for him. Watch for more to
Al Waterson (Entertainer) and Paul Klink (Event Producer) at The Lux New Year's Eve Event at Trump Tower
come from Adrian R’Mante and his acting students! •••• The Hawaii National Music Foundation of The Pacific provides Hawaii’s young adults with the long needed career development programs and technical training support for the many job and career opportunities that are available in the national music business and recording industry. Its founder, Kirk Thompson, created the ground work in the development of technical facilities and educational programs designed to support and position pacific based students, artists, producers, young executives, technicians and others for successful careers in the field of music. Kirk made it to the national charts in the seventies with the popular musical group, Kalapana. Today, Kirk and his wife, Laurie Thompson are helping the youth of Hawaii with their foundation. For more information, contact them at (808) 763-6834 and check out their website at www.honolulumuseum ofcontemporarypop.com •••• This year started out with a lot of celebrations. The New Year’s Eve Celebration at 53 by The Sea had a Great Gatsby theme and featured entertainment including Headliner –
Jade Dynasty Six Year Anniversary and Chinese Caldwell, Aaron Kwok, Sally Kwok, Ave Kwok,
KITV4 Reunion at Zoya Fasi's First Birthday Cel Mahea Richardson, Ryan Tsuji and Bottom Row Mook-Mahelana
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 11
Left to right: Ron Mizutani, Kelly Simek, Adrian R'Mante and Kristine Uyeno at the KHON2 Studio
Jordan Segundo with Nueva Vida and Rocky Brown. This elaborate event also included a stiltwalker and a lady with a unique champagne serving dress. •••• The Lux Event at Trump Tower presented by Paul Klink attracted hundreds of people to the venue to party the night away and enjoy the fireworks display at midnight. Al Waterson brought in the New Year at this huge party with Auld Lang Syne, a yearly tradition for him. •••• The Chinese New Year was on January 28 and this is the year of the rooster. Jade Dynasty Restaurant at The Ala Moana Shopping Center had two reasons to celebrate. Alan Ho and Ave Kwok, Owners of Jade Dynasty Restaurant held a six year anniversary celebration in conjunction with welcoming the Chinese New Year. On January 23, they welcomed VIPs in the business and political world along with six dancing lions into their establishment in gratitude for their success and to bring good luck in 2017. Al Waterson emceed the festivities. •••• Happy Birthday to Zoya Fasi, daughter of Yasmin Dar-Fasi and Sal
e New Year Celebration - Left to right: Mayor Kirk , Sylvia Ho and Alan Ho
lebration - Top Row - left to right: Yunji de Nies, - left to right: Jill Kuramoto, Jodi Leong and Lei
Fasi. Zoya celebrated her first birthday on January 7 with a gathering of family and friends at The Oahu Country Club. Among the attendees were former co-workers of Yasmin Dar-Fasi from her KITV4 news days as traffic anchor. Best wishes to Zoya, her brother – Luca, and Yasmin and Sal!
Yasmin Dar- Fasi and Sal Fasi with daughter, Zoya and son, Luca at Zoya's First Birthday Celebration
•••• The iconic musical group, Journey, is coming to Honolulu on February 23, 24 and 26 at The Blaisdell Arena. Lead Vocalist – Arnel Pineda – originally from the Philippines - will be singing the wellknown Journey hits in each concert with his signature dynamic style.
Laurie and Kirk Thompson
•••• For now, That’s Entertainment! (If you would like to submit entertainment information, please contact Nancy Bernal at 947-5736 or e-mail her at NancyBernal@aol.com)
Tracy Carter
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
Five living sakadas and their families and descendants were honored at the Sakada Day Celebration on Lanai. By ANGIE DYTIOCO SANTIAGO
Front Row: Avelino Albano Raymondo, Feliciano Domingo, Lino Badua, and Angel Ramos. Back Row: Renato and Maria Etrata.
Honoka’a Town, Waipahu, and
21 Lanai sakada widows were honored: Standing: Josefa Cayan (Juan Cayan), Linda Degamo (Victor Degamo, Sr.), Flora Ordonez (Alfredo Ordonez), Leticia Bueno (Secinando Bueno), Presentacion Pacada Racadio (Gerardo Pacada), Felipa Cabatu (Alfred Cabatu), Narcisa Alconcel (Valeriano Alconcel), Magdalena Quiocho (Gregorio Quiocho), Josephine Sequerra (Domingo Sequerra), Carlina Nartia (Antonio Narita), and Cirila Gomington (Antonio Gomington). Seated: Magdalena Costales (Restituto Costales, Sr.), Roberta Baldeviso (Constante Baldeviso), Zenaida Jaena (Jose Jaena), Esmenia Galinato (Vicente Galinato), Macaria Barsatan (Elpidio Barsatan), Anastasia Caberto (Marcelino Caberto), Maria Dombriguez (Roman Dombriguez, Sr.), Angelita Maltezo (Victorio Maltezo), Presentacion Zarsoza (Mariano Zarsoza), and Socorro Barnacha (Tito Barnacha).
SURVIVING SAKADAS HONORED IN CELEBRATIONS AROUND HAWAII The second Sakada Day was celebrated by the Filipino community all around Hawaii to honor the surviving sugar and pineapple plantation workers or “sakadas.” These agricultural laborers were recruited between 1906 and 1946 in the Philippines by the Hawaii Sugar Planters Association (HSPA). These sakadas contributed greatly to Hawaii’s economy and culture and paved the way for more Filipinos to come to Hawaii, creating the legacy of the Filipino community in Hawaii. HONOKA’A TOWN On December 18, 2016, the Honoka’a Sakada Day celebration took place on the Big Island. The event honored three surviving 1946 sakadas - Bernardo Abella, Pedro Domingquez, and Marcelino Querubin. The three honorees were presented a certificate of recognition by Big Island Mayor Harry Kim. The celebration waschaired by Romel Dela Cruz and
organized by the Hawaii Island Sakada Day Committee, the Hamakua Filipino Centennial Committee, and the North Hawaii Education and Research Center of the University of Hawaii/Hilo. FILCOM CENTER, WAIPAHU On December 20, 2016, on Oahu, six surviving 1946 sakadas were honored at a celebration held at the FilCom Center in Waipahu. Organizers of this event included the Oahu Filipino Community Council, the United Filipino Community Council of Hawaii, the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu, and the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii. The three surviving sakadas who arrived in 1946 were honored: Nemecio Alcon and Avelino Albano Raymondo both were from Sarrat, Ilocos Norte and Victorino Arrimas Tubon from Ballesteros, Cagayan.
Big Island Councilwoman Valerie Poindexter with officers of the Big Island Filipino Community Council (BIFCC): Melba Daak (Immediate Past President), Christina Ranan (BIFCC's President), Attorney Rose Bader, and Miss Big Island Filipina 2016 Maria Bartolome.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 13
A new generation of Filipinos on Lanai performed traditional Filipino folk dances to demonstrate and preserve the Filipino culture.
Lanai Sakada Day Celebration: Live entertainment included the Lanai Filipino Community Council's dancers.
Honoka'a Sakada Day: Event Chair Romel Dela Cruz , Angel Dytioco, Big Island Mayor Harry Kim, Lito Asuncion, and Angie Santiago.
Lanai City Host Sakada Day Events LANAI CITY On January 7, 2017, the Lanai Filipino Community Council, headed by Jean Sumagit, hosted their Sakada Day celebration and also held a Blessing Ceremony for their newly renovated Lanai Filipino Clubhouse. Five surviving 1946 sakadas (and spouses) who were recruited from Ilocos Sur were honored: The sakada honorees were Fred Camero from Narvacan, Alejandro Haban from Santa Lucia, Rosalino Mamaclay from Santa Maria, Hermenegilda Oliva (who arrived in Hawaii with her husband Florencio of Caoayan), and Natividad Tolentino, who immigrated with her husband Dionisio of
Magsingal. Also honored were 21 widows of sakadas living on Lanai.
Angie Dytioco Santiago, our Gathering Place columnist, is a U.H. Manoa graduate. Angie is currently a Governor of the United
LEGACY AND ORIGINS OF SAKADA DAY The Sakada Day Celebration is a commemoration of the legacy of approximately 125,000 Filipino workers who arrived in Hawaii to work on Hawaii’s sugar and pineapple plantations. The first Filipinos to arrive in Honolulu were contract laborers hired by the plantations; they arrived on the S.S. Doric on December 20, 1906. The last group of some 6,000 Filipino sakadas known as the Sakada ’46 arrived in 1946 and were dispersed to sugar plantations throughout the islands in advance of the Great Sugar Strike of 1946. The statewide Sakada Day celebrations were initiated and encouraged by House Bill 604 which was introduced by State House Representative and Vice Speaker John Mizuno, cosponsored by Philippine Consul General Gina Jamoralin, and signed into law by Governor David Ige on April 9, 2015. Sam Cadacio with wife Connie and daughter Debbie. Photo credit: Amelia Casamina Cabatu.
Alice Dela Cruz, Jodean Dela Cruz, and Millie Asuncion coordinated the silent auction.
Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH), the Recording Secretary of the Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii (BCAH), an Assistant Auditor for the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH), and the Assistant Treasurer for the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH). She served as 1st Vice President of the Oahu
Father Oliver Ortega of Guiguinto, Bulacan, and a pastor at Malia Puka O Kalani Catholic Church in Hilo presided over the blessing of the newly renovated Lanai Filipino Clubhouse.
Filipino Community Council (OFCC) from 2013 to 2014 and as BCAH President from 2010 to 2012. She is the daughter of Angel & Rubing Dytioco and is married with two sons. She enjoys photography and participating in cultural and social activities and events.
Philippine exhibit by fashion designer Iris Viacrusis of Hilo, Hawaii.
LFCC's Vice President Jaughn Degamo pointing at his father's picture, Victor Degamo, a sakada, during a lunch break at the pineapple field.
Exhibits of plantation artifacts and photographs of plantation life were on display.
Honoka'a Sakada Day: Consul General Gina Jamoralin along with community leaders pose with the surviving 1946 sakadas: Bernardo Abella, Pedro Dominguez, and Marcelino Querubin.
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
By BRANDON ELEFANTE Council Member City and County of Honolulu Councilmember Elefante, Bishop of Honolulu Larry Silva, and Councilmember Kymberly Marcos Pine celebrate Red Mass on January 17.
City Council Leadership Reorganizes Happy New Year! I am excited in 2017 to continue to serve the communities of Aiea, Pearl City, and Waipahu as their area Councilmember in Council District 8. We start off this new year with new committee assignments and some new legislation.
New City Council Committees In January, The Honolulu City Council reorganized, electing Councilmember Ron Menor (Council District 9) as Council Chair. Council Chair Menor established new committee chairs and committee memberships.
I am retaining my chairmanship of the Committee on Public Health, Safety and Welfare. I will now be the Vice Chair of the Committee on Budget. In addition, I am a voting member on all Council Committees which include the Committees on Business, Economic Development
The Honolulu City Council held its first meeting of 2017 with the inauguration of the recently re-elected Councilmembers from Council Districts 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9. Left to Right, Back Row: Councilmembers Trevor Ozawa and Ikaika Anderson Front Row: Councilmembers Ernie Martin, Joey Manahan, and Ann Kobayashi, Council Chair Ron Menor, Councilmembers Carol Fukunaga, Kymberly Marcos Pine, and Brandon Elefante.
and Tourism; Executive Matters and Legal Affairs; Parks, Community and Customer Services; Public Works, Infrastructure and Sustainability; Transportation and Planning; and Zoning and Housing. TheBus One Day Bus Pass On January 25, the Honolulu City Council will have a final reading on Bill 69, CD-1 (2015), which establishes a one-day bus pass option valid for an unlimited number of bus rides for one transit day. This bill will eliminate the need for and the use of transfers, offering a streamlined process for boarding as well as addressing transfer abuses, and expanding riding options for the day pass purchaser. A single ride cash fare would still exist. The one-day bus pass will be sold for a minimum fare of two times the single cash fare for each passenger category—this means a one-day bus pass for an adult would cost $5.00. The bill also allows discounted advertising rates to businesses within one-half mile of a bus or rail route. The legislation authorizes the development, marketing, and sale of distinctive souvenir bus passes that include Hawaiian places, art or other graphics that portray a Hawaiian sense of place as part of its pass design. If adopted, the bill has an effective date of July 1, 2017. Automated External Defibrillators Right now we have a bill before us to expand the availability of
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) throughout our island. Studies have shown that an AED can save a life, and the American Red Cross supports increased training and access to AEDs and believes that this could save more than 50,000 lives a year. All 50 states and Washington, D.C. have specific AED laws and regulations limiting liability so that Good Samaritans are able to assist those in need. Bill 69 (2016) would require that an AED be placed on each floor of a City building as well as on each floor of newly constructed buildings with an occupant load of 20 or more. The AEDs must be accessible to residents, employees and the public as applicable. Many of our City buildings already have AEDs placed in them through a grant, and the bill would expand this number and also allow information about the locations of AEDs to be mapped and shared with other agencies. The bill had a hearing in the Zoning and Housing Committee and passed out for second reading and public hearing at the January 25 Full Council Meeting. I look forward to working with my colleagues, constituents, and community in 2017!
Brandon Elefante represents Honolulu City Council District VIII, which covers ‘Aiea - Pearl City - Waipahu. He can be reached at (808) 768-5008, and his email is belefante@honolulu.gov.
For Advertising information, please call 596-8787
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 15
2017 KFCC Board of Directors: Left to Right, Tess Yano, Cristeta Owan, Vonnel Ramos, Emma Ladendecker, Kela Caspillo, Emily Manuel, Marynel Valenzuela, Chuck Lasker, Dr. Addison Bulosan and Angel Acorda.
KAUAI FILIPINO CHAMBER HOLDS ITS ANNUAL INSTALLATION AND AWARDS GALA
Michiru Umezu, Cyndi Ayonon.and Art Umezu, Individual Member of the Year Honoree
With Senate President Ron Kouchi and Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho in attendance, the Kauai Filipino Chamber of Commerce (KPCC) held its annual installation and awards gala last Saturday, January 29, 2017 at the Kauai Beach Resort in Kapaa. Entrepreneur Bobby Ayonon was installed as President by Kauai Circuit Court Judge Randall Valenciano. The officers are: Norma Doctor Sparks as Vice President, Kaeo Bradford as Secretary, Juno Apalla as Assistant Secretary, Laurie Yoshida as Treasurer and Cyndi Ayonon as Assistant Treasurer. The KPCC directors included: Angel Acorda, Rose Ramos Benzel, Addison Bolosan, Kela Caspill, Emma Ladendecker, Chuck Lasker, Emily Manuel,
Willie Ortal, Cristeta Owan, Vonnel Ramos, Marynell Valenzuela, Ted Villanueva and Marites Yano. KPCC’s Immediate Past President is Eddie Topenio, the Legal Counsel is Mike Dahilig while its Executive Director isRandall Francisco. The Chamber also awarded much deserved recognition that evening for outstanding service to the community. Amongst the awards given were: Volunteer of the Year: Chuck Lasker; Chairperson of the Year: Eddie Topenio from the County of Kauai; Entrepreneur of the Year: Addison Bolosan, Specific Chiropractic; Director of the Year: Cristeta Owan of Paradise Tax / Subway Kapaa & PMRF; Individual member of the year: Art Umezu; The Corporate member of the Year: Marynell Valenzuela of Inkspot Quality Printing; The meritorious Director of the Year was awarded to Dr. Arnulfo Diaz.
Edie Ignacio-Nuemiller, Tess Yano, Wendy Martinez, Sonia Topenio, Marynel Valenzuela and Sheryl Grady pose for the camera in their black and white attire.
Kauai Judge Randall Valenciano, Kauai Fiipino Chamber of Commerce President Bobby Ayonon, Vice President Norma Doctor Sparks and ImmediatePast President Eddie Topenio
Regina Carvalho, Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. Keynote Speaker Kini Zamora and Kauai Filipino Chamber Executive Director Randy Francisco.
Kauai Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Mark Perrielo, Sharon Lasker, Beth Tokioka and Kini Zamora.
Councilmember Derek Kawakami and his wife Monica
KFCC Board
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 17
By Dr. RICKIE CAMARA
Today I write about nothing. Not about nonsense for that would be for naught. I won’t write naughtily either; for it used to mean that if you were ‘naughty’ you were a ‘nohuman.’ Today, it just signifies you are mischievous; but still part of the milk of human kindness. If something is better than nothing, should I write about that instead? Nah; here goes nothing. “Nothing doing,” my Editor might say. But have you ever had a day where, in fact, you were doing nothing? No goals to achieve, no task to execute, no errand to run, no TV to watch, no text to read; no ‘busyness’ to feel? Notice how such a day can be so refreshing and revitalizing? Unless you had someone on your back or an inner voice saying, “You are good for nothing!” And yes, you can confidently retort back that there are times when doing nothing can be good for you! Taking five to ten minute breaks from work to do nothing a few times a day translates to a 50% increase in productivity. Meditating is better than sitting down and doing nothing; but doing the latter alone for just ten to fifteen minutes a day reduces heart rate and blood pressure, improves digestion and mood; and boosts one’s overall sense of emotional well-being. The brain when doing nothing replenishes glucose and oxygen in its cells, restores metabolism, and can lead to a clearer head and a stronger sense of self-confidence. We need to sometimes step away from our lives to see it in perspective. We need to hear the silence in between the sounds to appreciate the music. Big successful companies now prescribe quiet periods where they ask employees not to take calls, handle emails, and engage in idle chat via text or voice. Smart move, as it can take up to 25 minutes to deal with or recover from a phone call or
email; and researchers have found that the average person receives such an interruption every 11 minutes. This means you are always running behind; catching your wind rather than being carried by it. ‘Nothing’ can be really creative; it is nothing to sneeze at. And if you sit still with no thing, i.e. no thought, event, or object in mind, you will soon note that something is born: a new thought, event, or object! And they can be a great inspiration for imagination. For instance, I saw an ad in a newspaper for a Vein Clinic. It did nothing for me; probably because my veins are still okay. But at that moment I thought of a song by Carly Simon and that a better ad might read, “You’re so Vein. I’ll bet you think this ad is about you. Don’t you? Don’t you?” I may be writing in vain here; but I am hoping for nothing of the kind. Is there nothing new under the sun to speak of? “War? What’s it good for? Absolutely nothing.” - sang Edwin Starr in the 70s. We use everything to bombard something to nothing. We don’t even
bother with the ‘spoils of war’ anymore; in fact, no one even wants to take in the millions of people who are inadvertently displaced. But war is about killing; and by whatever name we call them, they are still people whose lives we pulverize to nothing. In a strange twist to the Golden Rule, we terrorize on to others as they terrorize on to us. So commit to have nothing to do with that cycle of violence and carry nothing but peace in your mind. On a higher vibratory note, you notice how the best relationships are when there are no expectations? Like nothing at all; just unconditional love. A parent’s unqualified love for a child frees that child to soar and be whoever they want to be, to achieve whatever they set their eyes on. To be in the presence of a lover who makes no demands of you from the past or for the future; who simply accepts you as you are, in the present situation, in all your strengths and shortcomings. That is nothing but joy. Love and accept yourself in the same way; unequivocally and
unquestionably, nothing less. People say that they do not want to be judged by their appearance; but then spend an enormous amount of time and money on their looks. Bear truth to the beauty that you already are. Attractiveness naturally increases during ovulation for women; and when men ‘smell’ that, they will thrust out their chest and swagger like a baboon! There is a sense of relief when one is done with the reproductive cycle, either when menopause or andropause hits, or when one transcends their biology, the incessant drive of DNA to replicate. Seeking nothing, attached to nothing, simply content, one gains Everything. Some people at the end of the day will say, “My life has come to nothing.” That is impossible; but that feeling arises when you put conditions and expectations
on yourself. You gain something from every experience. Everything that happens to you is embodied knowledge if you live your life in self-awareness. There are no mistakes in life; only lessons to be learned. Find and treasure the beauty in the everyday, ordinary things. Be that happy, grateful, plain person walking on the street. Gosh, this article now seems to be adding up to something. I better stop at nothing. If I have said nothing, I hope that I have said it well. Namaste.
Dr. Rickie Camara is a Board-Certified psychiatrist and Bikram Yoga teacher. He teaches yoga classes at Hotyoga8 in Kaimuki. He has a yoga-aligned health coaching and counseling practice in Kahala. You can hear him every Friday on the radio at KNDI between 8 and 8:30 a.m. on the Medical Forum with Flor Martinez . Email contact at rickiec@pixi.com.
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017
By JANE CLEMENT
The consular team at work.
Consul Robert Bernardo administers the oath to Former Filipinos who are reacquiring their Philippine citizenship
Happy smiles from the applicants after taking their oath to reacquire their Philippine citizenship.
Philippine Consulate General Conducts 2-day Outreach in Kona The Philippine Consulate General of Honolulu, in cooperation with the Kona Visayan Club, conducted a 2day consular outreach mission and overseas voting registration in Kona, Hawaii the weekend of January 20 and 21. All services rendered at the consulate in Honolulu were made available on-site such as passport renewal, report of birth or death, notarial services, and
overseas Filipino voter registration. Consul Robert Bernardo and his team served over 100 Filipinos living in various parts of Hawaii Island, providing e-Passport processing, civil registry reporting, and general consular assistance. In addition, former Filipinos who have become U.S. citizens through naturalization took advantage of the presence of the Consular officers at the
The Philippine Consulate General Mobile Outreach team led by Consul Robert Bernardo with KVC president Jane Clement and KVC member Vivian Teshima( in the middle).
outreach to reacquire Philippine citizenship. This annual consular outreach provides a great service especially to Filipinos living in the neighbor islands. Most consular services require personal appearance so applicants typically must travel to Honolulu for passport applications and renewals. The Consular Outreach allows neighbor island applicants to avoid travel expenses that would otherwise be incurred by having to travel to Honolulu to submit applications in person. The next scheduled outreach on Hawaii Island is on May 20 and 21, 2017 at the Aupuni Center in Hilo, Hawaii. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 961.8220.
Our Big Island columnist Jane Caballero Clement is also the President of the Congress of Visayan Organization Foundation and the President of the Kona Visayan Club. She works as a Legislative Assistant to Councilman Dru Kanuha. She is serving as a Commissioner for the State Foundation of Culture and the Arts. In addition to her volunteer activities, Jane finds time to host a Filipino television show on the local cable channel.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • FEBRUARY 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 19
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