PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 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 JANUARY 21, 2017 Bubble Run Honolulu, Fun & Fitness, Barber’s Point, Kapolei, Hawaii 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM For more information and
ticket
Info
log
onto
www.bubblerun.com
FEBRUARY 5, 2017
244-4609 Contact Persons: Paul
Center with a Grand Parade on
Persons: Nelly Pongco Liu 228-7808,
Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on
Alimbuyao 754-8691, Bernadette
Kalakaua Avenue. The Philippine
Carlota Ader 797-4381, Mercy Mullins
KNDI 1270 AM Radio 3:30 PM – 5:30
Fajardo 342-8090
Consulate is in partnership with
226-1320
www.filamcourier.com and Social
FEBRUARY 26, 2017
Visayan
Media FB Page Fil-Am Courier with
The Lady in Red Ball 2017, Do you fit
Filipino Chamber of Commerce of
25th Annual Filipino Fiesta & Parade
your host Amelia Casamina Cabatu.
this shoe? Find out if you’re The Red
Hawaii (FCCH) and the Fil-Com
(5th Flores De Mayo). Kapiolani Park,
For more info call Amelia at (808) 282-
Cinderella, Dole Ballrooms at Iwilei.
Center for a bigger, colorful, and
Waikiki 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. For
2033
6:30 PM; For more information contact
culturally-rich Philippine partici-
sponsorship and booth information
persons are: Mimi Gozar 312-0778,
pation. For more information visit their
contact the Fil-Com Center Arceli
FEBRUARY 5, 2017
Ailyn Lum 226-1228, Rose Pedronan
website
Rebollido 808-680-0451 or email:
Samahang Ilocano (CIASI) Gala
392-2550, Amy Delacruz 841-0563
festival.com
filcom@filcom.org
Dole Cannery Pomaikai Ballroom 735
MARCH 5, 2017
MARCH 24, 2017
MAY 13, 2017
Iwilei Road, Honolulu, HI. 6:00 PM –
Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on
Filipino Chamber of Commerce of
Filipino Chamber of Commerce of
11:00 PM; For more information and
KNDI 1270 AM Radio 3:30 PM – 5:30
Hawaii 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf
Hawaii Filipino Entrepreneur of the
contestant
contact
PM. Log on to www.kndi.com and/or
Tournament Ewa Beach Golf Club 91-
Year and the Filipino Young
persons are: Joe Quibuyuen 808-256-
www.filamcourier.com and Social
050 Fort Weaver Road Ewa Beach
Entrepreneur of the Year and
6399, Sir Pike Velasco 808-554-
Media FB Page Fil-Am Courier with
Hawaii. The proceeds from the
Scholarship Awards Gala. Fil-Com
9646, Trini Sanga 808-393-1970
your host Amelia Casamina Cabatu.
tournament will fund the Foundation’s
Center
For more info call Amelia at (808) 282-
scholarship program. Looking for
Waipahu, HI. 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM;
2033
interested players. Contact Persons:
Contact Persons: Rocky Anguay, 387-
Eddie Agas 783-3327, Jack Legal
5821, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090
JANUARY 28, 2017 Gunglo Ti Mannurat nga Ilocano (GUMIL) Hawaii and Annak ti Kailokuan ti America (AKA) Miss and Mrs. GUMIL and AKA Coronation Night Sunset Lanai, Camp Smith Honolulu, Hawaii. Cost $40.00 Contact Persons: Mr. Froebel Garcia President of GUMIL: 808 386-6857, Mrs. Pacita Saludes President of AKA 808 779-6678 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
Philippine Airlines, Congress of
PM. Log on to www.kndi.com and/or
Organization
at
(COVO),
http://www.honolulu
MAY 6, 2017
Night and Ballroom Dance Competiton
registration
FEBRUARY 16-26, 2017 Filipino Chamber of Commerce of
94-428 Mokuola Street
Hawaii 27th (FCCH) Annual Filipino
MARCH 10 – MARCH 12, 2017
284-6832, Bernadette Fajardo 342-
Trade Mission to the Philippines. The
The 23rd Honolulu Festival, Hawaii’s
8090
trade mission aims to strengthen the
Premier Cultural Event. Activities
business opportunities between
include: March 10, 2017 International
APRIL 15, 2017
Installation of Officers and Board of
Hawaii and the Philippines. Planned
Friendship Gala. 6:00 PM Hawaii
Filipino Women’s Club of Hawaii
Directors Fil-Com Center. 94-428
itinerary includes visits to Manila,
Convention Center, March 11, 2017
Foundation (Formerly known as the
Mokuola Street Waipahu, HI. 6:00
Davao, Laoag, Vigan, Candon, and
Craft Fair and Cultural Performances
Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club)
PM; Cost: $50.00 for Dinner,
Baguio City. Official Travel Agency
Hawaii Convention Center, March 12,
Annual Terno Ball Ala Moana Hotel
Entertainment, Door Prizes and
is Noble Travel- Teresita Noble 808-
2017 Craft Fair at the Convention
Hibiscus Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact
Rotary Foundation. RSVP to Rev.
JUNE 23, 2017 Rotary Club of Kapolei 2017-2018
Alex Vergara, RCK President at 8085514303
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 DelaCruz 389-0517
BIG ISLAND JANUARY 21-22, 2017 Philippine Consulate Outreach mobile team visits Kona at the West Hawaii Civic Center (Building A-across DMV) 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy. January 21, 2017 – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, January 22, 2017 – 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. This service is made in collaboration with the Kona Visayan Club. To make an appointment please call Jane Clement 808-756-3103. To download forms or any other inquiries call the Philippine Consulate General at 808-545-6316-19 or visit their website philippineshonolulu.org
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 3
SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1987
HONORING A MENTOR
PUBLISHER Mary Llanos Cordero 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
Wherever we are in our career journey, we most certainly can look back and identify someone who we consider a mentor. It is that special person who had made us feel confident that we can do the task at hand; someone who has provided us with advice that guided us when we were at a crossroad of life; perhaps, even someone who has opened doors and steered us to a higher level of responsibility. Don Meyer, the President of the University of Valley Forge once wrote about what his own mentor had taught him of this special role: 1) Mentors provide insights we didn’t know. Because of the wisdom which they “gathered over the years”, mentors are the best source of information or perspectives. 2) Mentors point out blind spots we couldn’t see. If we allow them, mentors can coach us to correct some actions or behaviors which can lead to our failure, if left alone. 3) Mentors help us build strengths we hadn’t developed. Because they know us, mentors can provide some positive reiteration and push us to build on our gifts and talents. 4) Mentors support us with disciplines we have not built. In order to be successful, we need to cultivate discipline which is not necessarily easy. Mentors keep us on track. 5) Mentors believe in our potential before we understood our own. “Mentors see potential that we don’t see in ourselves”. Dr. Amefil Agbayani at the University of Hawaii at Manoa was one such mentor to thousands of UH students who passed through its portals. In her 45 years of being associated at the University, Manang Amy, as she is fondly called, embraced the role of being the “Manang” or revered elder sister, and worked hard to ensure that her students were supported. This past December, Manang Amy officially retired from the University. Her last role was Assistant Vice Chancellor for Diversity. In this issue of the Fil-Am Courier, we are privileged to document Manang Amy’s contributions and to give voice to the gratitude that the community feels in its heart. There is a lot to be grateful for. During her career at UH, Manang Amy blazed trails like a leader that she is. After receiving her Ph.D at the tender age of 26, she was recognized the fact that Filipino
students were sadly under represented and thereafter, devoted her entire career to balance that equation. It was perhaps the understanding how education is the great equalizer that triggered this passion as she herself was a product of a good academic tradition. Born into a comfortable family where her father was a diplomat and her mother was a schoolteacher, Manang Amy spent part of her childhood years in Australia and Bangkok where her father was assigned as part of the Foreign Service. After graduating from the University of the Philippines, Manang Amy first came to Hawaii to attend the East-West Center but stayed on to make a difference. In 1971, she was one of the founders of Operation Manong, which initially sought to provide support services for Filipino students. The office has since been expanded to include all of Hawaii’s multi-ethnic groups. A few years ago, Operation Manong was renamed as the Office of Office of Multicultural Student Services (OMSS). In its website, it states that “OMSS is a part of the Student Equity, Excellence, and Diversity (SEED) program, under the Office of Student Affairs at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. Formerly known as Operation Manong (est. 1971), OMSS focuses on outreach activities encouraging individuals from underrepresented groups and underserved communities to seek higher education, providing university students opportunities to experience Hawai’i’s multicultural contexts, conducting activities promoting cross-cultural understanding and social justice, and promoting the development of and provide a clearinghouse for information and resources related to Hawai’i’s multiethnic groups.” Manang Amy is also credited for having established the office of Student Equity, Excellence and Diversity (SEED) under the Office of Student Affairs. Under her watch, that office has since grown into a powerhouse of resources and boasts of having one of the most progressive diversity programs in the United States. So what lessons has Manang Amy taught those she mentored? First of all, in her counsel to those she mentored, Manang Amy emphasize how important it was to be involved in the community. Manang Amy walked the talk and led by example. Throughout her career, she did not confine herself to the university’s ivory tower but instead threw herself into the vortex of Hawaii’s political and social base. Active in the Democratic Party, she served several terms as a
delegate to National conventions. In fact, in 2008, when history was made and the country elected its first African-American President, the son of Hawaii, Barack Obama, Manang Amy was one of the electors of the national Electoral College. In 2009, Manang Amy topped that by serving as the Campaign Chair for then US Congressman Neil Abercrombie who ran as Governor and won. Manang Amy brought this strong political legacy as she has mentored many of the Filipinos who sought political office and on many occasions, had even served as their campaign chair. One of those who had benefited from Manang Amy’s political tutoring is Honolulu City and County Council member Joey Manahan who was one of her former students. The second lesson that Manang Amy taught was the importance of cultivating a network. Whether she was campaigning for a particular candidate or galvanizing the grassroots on a certain issue, Manang Amy brought with her the power of her connections. In a community where personal relationships are the key to one’s survival, Manang Amy has accumulated a vast network of friends and allies, who she taps whenever she needs to get things done. Woe to those legislators or stakeholders who have not realized this because in due time, that fact is soon brought home. As Manang Amy found and gathered her strength, over the years, she expanded her advocacies for greater measure to include other underrepresented groups including African-Americans, Pacific Islanders, Native Hawaiians and disenfranchised groups such as
women, the LBGT communities, students with disabilities and senior citizens. The third lesson that Manang Amy emphasized was the power of roots, the strength of being united, and how our Filipino community mattered. Despite her many activities in the mainstream community, Manang Amy never forgot where she came from. She was never too busy to serve in various capacities when the Filipino community needed her. Whether it was serving as President of the Filipino Community Center, Chair of a community event or as a speaker of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce, Manang Amy was always easily accessible and available. So how do we honor a mentor like Dr. Amy Agbayani? Yes, we can sing her praises as we have done so here. But words of appreciation are not enough. The task of truly honoring her falls on the shoulders of those whose lives she had touched: The best way to honor her is to remember the lessons and to continue to aspire to greatness. As many have achieved the milestones of success Manang Amy shares in that reflected glory. Those lives validate that indeed, her time at UH had been time well spent. We wish Manang Amy well in her retirement but we know that the best is yet to come for her. Knowing her the way we do, we have no doubt that she will be even more busy devoting attention to the community she loves. Happy Retirement, Manang Amy! Maraming Salamat po for 45 years of exemplary work!
On January 21, 2017 women & our allies will unite for the Women’s March on Washington. We stand together in solidarity with our partners and children for the protection of our rights, our safety, our health, and our families -- recognizing that our vibrant and diverse communities are the strength of our country. Below you will find all current information about the Women's March - O'ahu which is being held in solidarity with hundreds of other sister marches being held across the country and Women's March - O'ahu will start gathering at 9:30 AM on Saturday, January 21, 2017 on the Ewa lawn of the Hawai'i State Capitol and the March will start at 10:00 AM. The March will end back at the Hawai'i State Capitol where we will Rally for some great speeches, entertainment and information booths from our supporting organizations!
PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2017
by CHARLENE CUARESMA ABOUT OUR COVER
This beautiful photo of our subject, Dr. Amy Agbayani was taken at the OrigMedia Studios in downtown Honolulu. Photo credit to the talented Jeff Orig. Cover concept by Noah Felipe of Orig Media. Mahalo to Jeff Orig of Orig Media. Both Jeff and Noah can be reached at www.origmedia.com or at 808 447-9559.
Doris & Amy with their “better halves” at the Senate & House recognition of their landmark contributions to improve the status of of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Hawai’i through research and higher education publications.
“Each one lift one” is a slogan that epitomizes the compassionate spirit of the civil rights movement. Dr. Amefil Agbayani, also known by those she mentored as Manang Amy, lifted many. On December 31, 2016, she retired as University of Hawai’i at Manoa (UHM) Assistant Vice Chancellor for Diversity. In her 45-year UH career, she established and directed Student Equity, Excellence and Diversity
(SEED) under the Office of Student Affairs. Indeed, Manang Amy leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to impact the community, particularly those who had attended the University of Hawai’i. Her various initiatives and strong action over the years will continue to influence relevant sectors of government and education. In 1972, Manang Amy cofounded Operation Manong,
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 5
a program for UHM college students to tutor Filipino and other immigrant students. She secured millions of dollars for scholarship and student service programs. With support from Vice President for Student Affairs Doris Ching, Manang Amy and her team expanded her office to become one of the most comprehensive student diversity programs in the nation. In addition, Dr. Ching, Manang Amy, and her colleagues conducted research on Asian American and Pacific Islanders in higher education. They published articles and books on the impact of disparities and assets of diversity. Through Manang Amy and her leadership team, SEED ranked 11th in generating grant money at UHM.
L-R: Marie Miguel, Tiffany Kosaga, Felix Galicinao, Debieh Miguel, Kevin Faller, Geryll Anthony Agno, Amy Agbayani, Jared Javinar, Christine Peralta, Ashley Galacgac, Franalyn Galiza.
“Manang Amy is our Rosa Parks.” said Kevin Faller and fellow Pamantasan student leaders, who are aspiring civil rights advocates. Over time, Manang Amy broadened her efforts to serve Native Hawaiians, African Americans, Pacific Islanders, and other underrepresented groups such as women, the LGBT community, students with disabilities, senior citizens,
parents, and pre-school children. Manang Amy’s commitment to civil rights goes back to her 1969 UH dissertation on the civil rights movement which was sparked by an incident involving Rosa Parks
and led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Rosa sat, so Martin could walk. Martin walked, so Barack could run. Barack ran and won, so all our children could fly. Manang Amy is our Rosa Parks.”
Kevin Faller, a UHM Pamantasan Conference student leader cited this quote about Manang Amy in relation to Rosa Parks, an African-American woman who was arrested in 1955 in Montgomery, Alabama for sitting in the front of the bus, a privilege then for whites only. Manang Amy’s passion for defending the disenfranchised has not abated. For instance, she was among 84 individuals who were arrested for sitting on Kalakaua Avenue to bring attention to unfair labor practices at the Grand Hyatt Waikiki in 2010. This act of civil disobedience was part of a global Hyatt Hotel boycott campaign for its workers, who endured the highest injury
Congratulations on the the retirement of our dear academician friend,
Dr. Amy Agbayani. You have helped many Filipino students who attended the University of Hawaii at Manoa make their educational dreams come true, and for this, we thank you. Thank you also for continuing your legacy of helping the Filipino Students by making your own Scholarship Program on Social Justice via the University of Hawaii Foundation. Therefore, we encourage the Hawaii Community to join and help you in your quest of helping the Filipino Students.
The Amy Agbayani Endowed Scholarship for Civil Rights will provide scholarships for University of Hawaii @ Manoa students working for a diverse, equitable and inclusive society. Please join Amy and her family (Gus Gustafson, LinaAgbayani and AleliStarosta), UH colleagues, students, alumni and community friends by donating to a new scholarship honoring Amy on her retirement from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Here are two ways to make a gift: *Donate online: https://giving.uhfoundation.org/funds/20754803 *By check payable to: UH Foundation. Note on check: Amy Agbayani- Fund #207-5480-3 Mail to: University of Hawai‘i Foundation, P.O. Box 11270, Honolulu, HI 96828-0270 Donations are 100% tax-deductible and will be matched by Amy and Gus.
Violeta Arnobit
Nancy Charlene Cuaresma Atmospera-Walch
Marivic Dar
Bernadette Fajardo
Elsa Talavera
Charmen Valdez
Grace Villanueva Go
Baybee Hufana Ablan
PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2017
Agbayani with then Governor Ben Cayetano and then Congressman Neil Abercrombie
Dr. Doris Ching and Dr. Agbayani
rate among 50 major hotels owned by the five largest U.S. hotels. Arrested with her were UniteHere! Local 5 union members, who were mostly Filipinos, community advocates, and then-student Jeff Acido, whose mother, like many parents, is a hotel w o r k e r. It seems that losing, as much as winning, in legal and political arenas throughout Manang Amy’s tenure only intensified the temerity of this Philippine-born phenom, whose early childhood years were spent in Australia, and high school years in Bangkok. She graduated from the University of the Philippines, then came to Hawai’i as an East West Center Scholar, and later received her
doctorate in political science at UHM at age 26. Today, she and partner Gus Gustafson lived in Kalihi Valley where they have resided for 40 years. Despite her diminutive physical stature, Manang Amy is a force to be reckoned with. She grew to command a towering local, national, and global presence. Friends recall that in the 1970s, when Hawai’i state officials did not know her name or return her phone calls about the plight of Filipino immigrant students and their families, Manang Amy rallied advocates for press conferences to address institutional racism in Hawai’i public schools and social service agencies.
She helped establish the Inter-Agency Council for Immigrants and Refugees and the Na Loio Immigrant Rights and Public Interest Legal Center. In one particular case, they lost the 1981 landmark case on hiring discrimination, Manuel Fragante vs. City and County of Honolulu. The court ruled in favor of the employer, who claimed that Fragante’s oral skills were “hampered by his (Filipino) accent or manner of speaking,” even though his qualifications and civil service test scores were comparable and even surpassed other applicants. The Fragante case galvanized grassroots activists to introduce and pass legislation that established the Hawai’i Civil Rights Commission (HCRC). Governor John Waihe’e appointed Manang Amy as the Commission’s first Chair. HCRC enforces state laws prohibiting discrimination in
Agbayani was among 84 protesters who were arrested in 2010 during the Grand Hyatt sit in strike.
Agbayani with President Barack Obama. She participated in Hawaii's electoral college which elected Obama during his first term.
Agbayani with President Clinton and Congressman Abercrombie.
employment, housing, public accommodations, and access to state and state-funded services. Over the years, Manang Amy mentored and mobilized social justice advocates and political allies, who passed many laws, including legislation to: • Institutionalize funding for the creation of tenured track faculty positions for instructors in the UH Department of IndoPacific Languages.
• Establish Philippine Studies Center and tenure track faculty positions at UHM and Leeward Community College. • Ensure funding for high school and undergraduate student services for recruitment, college application assistance, retention, transfer, and completion of college degrees. Students also explore health career programs.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 7
ABOUT PAMANTASAN COUNCIL
Agbayani at three years old
College graduation from university of the Philippines.
Parents: Adeudato (diplomat) and Remedios (school teacher) Agbayani
• Offer student support services to increase access and complete graduate degrees for minorities, underrepresented and lowincome students. • Proclaim October as Filipino American History Month. • Protect language access for English language learners to government services. Manang Amy had also served as chair of the Hawai’i Judicial Selection Commission, and co-chair of the Abercrombie for Governor campaign in 2009. She received awards from the Patsy T. Mink PAC, honored by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission as a “Living Treasure”, and feted as a Filipino Community Center 2016 Awardee. Manang Amy served on the board of the Hawai’i Community Foundation to ensure that grants in health, education, human services, arts, culture, and environment were equitably distributed to underrepresented and minority programs. In 2008, Manang Amy was one of the four electors of the Hawai’i Electoral College, who cast their unanimous votes for Hawai’i born, then-
As UH distinguished alumni
With sisters Lina Agbayani & Aleli Starosta
Senator from Illinois, Barack Obama, to become the 44th President of the United States of America. Manang Amy has certainly accumulated a fair amount of recognition but she herself will admit that she still has the energy to continue to pursue her passions. She has made it clear that she does not intend to retire from advocating for civil rights, social justice, access and success of Filipinos at UH. This legislative session she will help the UH Pamantasan Council lobby for for $600,000 for projects at 10 campuses and 6 positions. This budget request is included in the official University budget request. Filipino and non Pamantasan Council and Filipino community groups will be working hard this session to get needed funds. (Please see sidebar for additional information about Pamantasan Council)
Manang Amy’s legacy is exemplified in those she mentors, whom she encourages to apply the assets of their diversity to help mitigate complex problems and improve the status of all people, including those from vulnerable communities. In this issue of the Fil-Am Courier, some of them have stepped forward with their testimonials to share how she has impacted their lives and careers. Even as we all wish her well in her retirement, we know that Manang Amy will continue to provide guidance and mentorship to the causes she believes in. Her indomitable spirit assures us so. Maraming Salamat, Manang Amy! Charlene Cuaresma is chair of National Federation of Filipino American Associations Region 12 and works at UH SEED to champion minority students in higher education through research, advocacy and service.
For Advertising information, please call 595.8787
The systemwide Pamantasan Council projects at UHCC, Hilo, Manoa and West O`ahu address the Hawai’i Graduation Initiative (HGI) University of Hawai'i strategic goal with a focus on Filipino students, a large underserved and underrepresented high need group. Pamantasan (which means “Higher education” in Filipino) was organized in 1987 and has held annual conferences for administrators, faculty, staff and students. Filipinos are the second largest group in the state, many are low income and only 17% of Filipino adults have a BA or higher. Filipinos make up 21% of the students in the public school system and are the second largest group in the DOE. UH enrollment is: systemwide 7,008 (13%); Community Colleges 4,671 (17%); Hilo 269 (7%); 1,550 (9%) at Manoa; and 518 (20%) at UH West O’ahu. They are underrepresented systemwide and particularly at Manoa (both undergraduate and graduate levels). Filipinos are well represented at the Community Colleges however transfer rates from every CC campus to four year campuses are below target. The multicampus Pamantasan Council objectives are to eliminate access and success gaps of Filipino students by providing recruitment, transfer and retention programs. Filipino enrollment at UH is large and has the potential to grow significantly and improve the overall number of UH graduates. The Pamantasan Council funded objectives are consistent with performancebased metrics. The focus of the UH Pamantasan Council are Filipinos who are identified as a priority group (e.g. Community College and Manoa strategic directions) because they are a large and growing population with a significant number who are low income and without post-secondary education. The Pamantasan Council project goal is to increase the overall UH production of degrees with focused attention to the large DOE and Community College Filipino population. Metrics (e.g. graduation and transfer rates) consistent with performance based funding will be used. The systemwide project supports three major areas: (1) Transfer Opportunity Pathways Services (TOPS) from the Community Colleges to 4 year campuses; (2) Curriculum to support a multicampus Academic Subject Certificate (ASC); and (3) coordination to share resources and expertise for recruitment and retention services, annual conference for student engagement and staff development. This is a multicampus project where some activities are systemwide (e.g. conference and staff development) and other activities will be available only at some campuses depending on resources and identified areas of need. For example TOPS activities are particularly needed at Manoa and the Community Colleges. West O’ahu needs a full time faculty to offer courses (language and ASC courses). Hilo has a full time instructional faculty and an array of courses but needs additional staff to improve recruitment, transfer and retention student services. For more information on the Pamantasan Council, please email: quemuel@hawaii.edu
PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2017
Community Pulse: Leaders Share Their Insights on Amy Agbayani Aloha to Dr. Amefil Amy Agbayani, the “mother” of civil rights in Hawai’i. When we look back at Hawai’i milestones in civil rights, immigrant rights, language access, and equal access to education over the past 40 years, Amy has had a hand in every one. She has always been there – involved, engaged, principled, and committed. I recall a summer 1987 lunch meeting with Amy, Sheila Forman, and Julie Puzon at the Richards Street YWCA, where the idea of the Hawai’i Civil Rights Commission was conceived. The HCRC was established by legislation enacted in 1988 and 1989. Hawai`i joined the ranks of states with a civil or human rights commission to enforce its civil rights laws, leaving Alabama, Arkansas, and Mississippi as the only states without one. Governor John Waihee appointed Amy to be the first HCRC Chair. Amy’s most important and lasting legacy can be found in the generations of accomplished leaders she has mentored and nurtured. From the early days of Operation Manong, she has fought for opportunities for students from communities underrepresented in higher education. Amy’s faith in her students has been rewarded, as they have gone on to become community advocates, policy-makers, business leaders, lawyers and judges, educators, and other valued contributors to society and our communities. Amy has unique gifts, the vision to see injustice, imagination to dream of solutions, and credibility to move people toward meaningful action. Her life’s work teaches us to demand justice now, but to be patient in the struggle to win justice. Mahalo Amy. We all look forward to hearing from you, calling on us to stand up for justice and speak truth to power. DR. WILLIAM “BILL” HOSHIJO Executive Director, Hawai’i Civil Rights Commission
Dr. Amy Agbayani, is a force of nature: humanitarian, civil rights activist, educator, mentor–and we might add, marriage broker. After all, she introduced Neil [Abercrombie] and I each other in the late 1970's. She is lauded and most appropriately awarded for her civic and academic achievements, but what makes Amy so easy to love and respect is as a loyal friend with a wicked sense of humor, and always curious mind and as someone who always takes ideas and values seriously but never her herself. We think it's great that she is a budding coffee grower, that she devours mystery novels, and enjoys her morning medication at McDonalds. A lovely life, deeply and wonderfully well lived. NANCIE CARAWAY, PH.D University of Hawai'i Manoa
Amy was willing to help in my first political race for State Representative in Kalihi in 1980. We canvassed door to door, passing out brochures. I fought for equal employment opportunities and equal representation in government. She was brave to speak out when established “Filipino community and political leaders” were afraid or unwilling to rock the boat. Our organization, Filipinos Against Discrimination in Employment, challenged the Hawai’i Department of Education for not hiring Filipino teachers due to their accent, for hiring Filipinos on Temporary Teacher Appointment Agreement, and for not implementing affirmative action policies. These were barriers to opportunities to become eligible for probation and tenure, despite our qualifications. JOHNNY VERZON Teacher, Kalakaua Intermediate School
Amy has been a social activist who learned how to get things done both within the system and in spite of the system. The challenge for change has not always been to beat someone over the head to make a point but, rather, to get people to do the right and honorable thing regardless of who they were or what they originally believed. CLEM BAUTISTA Director, Office of Multicultural Student Services University of Hawaii
Manang Amy leads by example, highlighting her commitment to building relationships, voicing concerns, and standing up for issues that impact our most vulnerable and in need. She inspires me with confidence to speak up on issues and engage in advocacy for social justice. Through her dedication for student equity, excellence and diversity, I benefited from support of scholarships and mentorships. My journey through higher education came full circle when I met Manang Amy. I am truly honored to continue her legacy of supporting students and serving the community. MICHELLE TAGORDA UH Board of Regent
Amy is a living legend; a true Filipino-American icon. Leading by inspired example, she would never ask anything that she was not prepared to do herself. She’s like a candle burning and melting to light others to turn dreams into reality. Like any gifted mentor and catalyst, Amy’s legacy lies in the people whose lives she has touched, whose education and career opportunities she has facilitated, and whose successes she has launched. Thanks to her power of will, focus, selfsacrifice, and dedication to a higher cause, who we are today is the culmination of her efforts and hard work. Many people came from modest circumstances and are doing extraordinary things because of her life’s work to facilitate equitable education and career opportunities. I bear full witness and gratitude to her making a powerful difference in the life of this one immigrant student. My life is richer for having crossed paths with her. JADE BUTAY Deputy Director, Hawai‘i State Department of Transportation Friends of Operation Manong Ben Menor Scholarship Recipient
I’ve known Manang Amy for over 42 years. She has shaped my politics and passion for serving the community. We should all brace in the wake of the tremendous impact triggered by her retirement. I am truly blessed to have her guidance, support and love throughout my life. I definitely would not be in my position if Manang Amy had not come into my life. Dios ti agngina Manang Amy. WILLIAM DOMINGO Judge, Hawai‘i’s First Circuit (Oahu) District Court
Congratulations Amy! You are an inspiration to all Filipinos in Hawaii and throughout the globe! LUIS SALAVERIA Director, Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism State of Hawaii
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 9
Community Pulse: Leaders Share Their Insights on Amy Agbayani Manang Amy has been instrumental in the creation and continued success of the UH Manoa GEAR UP program. Through UH Manoa GEAR UP, we have helped over 4,000 students from the Kalihi and Waipahu areas learn more about college and increase matriculation rates into postsecondary education. GEAR UP was the first and only program in the nation to bring Ilokano and Samoan language classes to Waipahu and Farrington High Schools while offering a multitude of college preparatory activities and services, ranging from tutoring, early college, mainland college tours, and innovative STEM programs. Personally, she has been integral in my development as a GEAR UP Director, offering support and opportunity to me going back as far as the creation of groups such as Operation Manong and Sariling Gawa Youth Council, Inc. in the 80s. My family also worked alongside her in the 70s and 80s, doing work with Filipino immigrant women regarding women's health and pregnancy - so even indirectly as a toddler, I had the privilege of witnessing an early example of what true invested community work should look like.
Dr. Amy Agbayani is a living treasure! Her lifelong work as a civil rights champion remains unsurpassed and should be emulated by others, particularly the younger generation of Filipinos in Hawaii. I am in awe and tremendously appreciative of all that she has accomplished. Amy and other community leaders worked hard to pass legislation to establish the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission. Because of her strong leadership as the first chair of the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission, it has effectively enforced civil rights laws statewide and continues to lobby for passage of civil rights legislation, locally and nationally. She has encouraged Filipinos and other minorities like me to serve on the commission and become involved in civil rights advocacy. Congratulations for a job well done, Amy! Judge Artemio Baxa
Amy Agbayani profoundly impacted my life as an educator and mentor, but most of all, as a role model and leader whose passion is serving our community. I got my first job through Amy at the Hawai‘i State Legislature, which eventually led to my service as a State Representative in the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives.
Manang Amy taught me how to navigate the world of academics, politics, and community life with deep integrity and love for the most oppressed communities. She knew that academic credentials and political aspirations were second to the fight and struggle against systematic oppression. She taught me that no job is too small, no task is beneath us, whether taking out the trash or cleaning tables or giving speeches at rallies. I am moved by her deep sense of community and her relentless love for the Filipino community and other oppressed communities. Someday, I hope to come close to what she has done for the Hawai‘i community, Agbiagka Manang Amy!
JOEY MANAHAN
JEFF ACIDO, PH.D.,
Honolulu City Council Member; Budget Committee Chair District 7: Kalihi, Salt Lake, Aliamanu, Foster Village, Iwilei, Airport, Sand Island
Former UH Board of Regent Civic Engagement and Community Education Program Manager Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services
ERWIN LEGASPI Director, UH GEAR UP
PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2017
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 11
PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2017
Mabuhay and Congratulations Dr. Amy Agbayani! Our community wholeheartedly supports the Fil-Am Courier in recognizing a Filipino living treasure who has dedicated her life to improving the lives of Filipinos and other minorities in Hawaii. We are proud of her extraordinary accomplishments as an educator, mentor, community organizer, and civil rights leader. Maraming Salamat and Dios to agngina! God Bless You for all that you do in our community!
Warm Greetings and Best Wishes!
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 13
Congratulations Dr. Amy Agbayani!
PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2017
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THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 15
by JORDAN SEGUNDO
JUST BREATHE The holidays have come and gone and 2017 is finally upon us. Often the holidays are about everyone else: their gifts, their parties, their well-being. Actually, you can take care of everyone else even better if you first take care of yourself! So, if you still feel less than ready to embark on a fresh new year, then you (and your loved ones) might benefit from some self-care. • Take care of your body – Eat healthy foods. Exercise and go to bed early. Healing yourself physically will renew you - body, mind, and spirit. • Take some time to unwind - It’s okay to take a break from life whether it’s just a day, a weekend, or even a whole week. Do whatever you have to do to relax and focus on yourself and get yourself motivated to start the new year off right. You can’t tackle those “new year, new me” resolutions if you’re still wiped out from the holiday. • Get organized - Take some time to clean out your car or reorganize your closet. Go through that stack of papers at your desk and de-clutter your surroundings. By doing so, you’ll feel better prepared for whatever life throws at you.
The start of a new year always seems like the perfect time to set new goals, which is probably why many people choose to create New Year's Resolutions. Yet for some, resolutions are much easier to make than it is to keep and by the end of January many of us have deserted our resolutions and reverted back to our old ways. If you’re committed to making a change in 2017, here are a few tips to help you keep those New Year’s Resolutions going the entire year: • Choose a specific, realistic goal - Instead of just saying you’d like to “lose weight” or “get in shape”, make it specific. For example, resolve to lose 10 lbs. or run a marathon. Choosing a concrete, achievable goal gives you the opportunity to plan exactly how you are going to accomplish your goal over the course of the year. • Remember that change is a process - Unhealthy habits take years to develop, you can’t expect to change them in only a matter of days or even weeks. It may take longer than you would like to achieve your goals, but remember that real change takes time. Once you have made the commitment to changing a behavior, it is something that you will continue to work on for the rest of your life. • Keep working on your goals - By February, many people have lost that initial spark of motivation that they felt immediately after making their New Year's Resolution. Keep that inspiration alive by continuing to work on your goals, even after facing setbacks. If your current approach is not working, reevaluate your strategies and develop a new plan.
FINDING INSPIRATION It can be difficult to be successful in life without inspiration. Some find motivation in stories of inspiration while others find inspiration in people. Whatever the source, inspiration can propel us to move forward. • Buy a book of inspiring life quotes - If you think that you need some inspiration, buy a book of inspiring life quotes. The words and sayings can motivate you a lot, and you can feel motivated in your work. • Inspirational pictures - Find some inspirational pictures if you want to have a tangible inspiration. Put these pictures on your desk so that whenever you sit to work, they are in front of your eyes. This would help you keep yourself motivated till you achieve success. Jordan Segundo is most noted as the first contestant from Hawaii and the first Filipino-American selected as a Top 32 finalist on season two of American Idol. Since then, he has made a name for himself as one of Hawaii’s top entertainers. In addition to singing, he has branched out into acting and television hosting. He is currently the weekend weather anchor and a reporter for KITV4 Island News. Aside from performing, Segundo is also very active in the community. He generously volunteers his time and talents to worthy causes and nonprofit organizations, such as the Ronald McDonald House Charities, the D.A.R.E. Program and the Fur Angel Foundation. When not performing, Jordan enjoys working out, cooking and hiking. To contact Jordan Segundo, visit his website at www.jsegundo.com
PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2017
By DR. ALFRED SISON
Happy New Year! It is time to let go of the past, trust for a healthy future, but live in the present. For many us, it is a time to make annual New Years’ resolutions. Here are some age old tips to make New Years’ resolutions work for you: from my professional group of colleagues the American Psychological Association: Start small Make resolutions that you think you can keep. If, for example, your aim is to exercise more frequently, schedule three or four days a week at the gym instead of seven. If you would like to eat healthier, try replacing dessert with something else you enjoy, like fruit or yogurt, instead of seeing your diet as a form of punishment.
Happy New Years’ Resolutions and making them stick… Change one behavior at a time Unhealthy behaviors develop over the course of time. Thus, replacing unhealthy behaviors with healthy ones requires time. Don’t get overwhelmed and think that you have to reassess everything in your life. Instead, work toward changing one thing at a time.
Talk about it Share your experiences with family and friends. Consider joining a support group to reach your goals, such as a workout class at your gym or a group of coworkers quitting smoking. Having someone to share your struggles and successes with makes your journey to a healthier lifestyle that much easier and less intimidating.
Don’t beat yourself up Perfection is unattainable. Remember that minor missteps when reaching your goals are completely normal and OK. Don’t give up completely because you ate a brownie and broke your diet, or skipped the gym for a week because you were busy. Everyone has ups and downs; resolve to recover from your mistakes and get back on track. Ask for support Accepting help from those who care about you and will listen strengthens your resilience and ability to manage stress caused by your resolution. If you feel overwhelmed or unable to meet your goals on your own, consider seeking professional help. Psychologists are uniquely trained to understand the connection between the mind and body. They can offer strategies as to how to adjust your goals so that they are attainable, as well as help you change unhealthy behaviors and address emotional issues. And since we are in the age of social media here are some of my favorites I found online. All sources are unknown, but publicly displayed, to help maybe make your New Years Resolutions stick: • The present situation is not your final destination. The best is yet to come. • Sometimes the bad things that happen in our lives put us directly on the path to the best
things that will ever happen to us. • If you don’t like where you are, move. You are not a tree. • You can’t start the next chapter of your life, if you keep reading the last. • If it doesn’t open, it’s not your door. • Sometimes you need to stop outside, get some air and remind yourself of who you are and where you want to be • Sometimes you ned to talk to a three year old just so you can understand life again. • Listen and Silent are spelled with the same letters. Think about it. • Sometimes, you have to stop thinking so much and just go where your heart takes you • You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward. • Never stop believing because miracles happen everyday I wish you all a Happy New Year! 2017 here we come. Aloha, Peace, Mabuhay, Amen. – Dr Al If you would like to contact me, please visit me my website at www.alspsy.com
Alfred A. Sison, MA, LMFT, PsyD; "Dr. Al" is a licensed clinical psychologist with a subspeciality license in marriage and family therapy. He services individuals, couples, and familes through the therapeutic process, and maintains a private practice in Honolulu, HI. He holds a Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD), Clinical Psychology degree from Argosy University, Hawaii Campus and a Master of Arts (MA), Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy Specialty from the American School of Professional Psychology, Hawaii Campus. He completed his undergraduate studies with a degree in Bachelor of Arts (BA), Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley.
THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 17
PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2017
JANUARY IS
Glaucoma Awareness Month By DR. CHRISTOPHER TORTORA, M.D. Medical Director of Hawaiian Eye Center
Nearly 3 million Americans suffer from glaucoma and that number is expected to increase 50 percent by 2032, according to the 2014 Prevent Blindness “Future of Vision: Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems” report. Glaucoma is a group of diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending images from the eye to the brain. January is designated Glaucoma Awareness Month by the American Academy of Ophthalmology to remind those most at risk to get regular checkups from their eye care professional. Glaucoma typically occurs due to an increase in pressure in the eye, or intraocular pressure, because of
either an overproduction of fluid in the eye or blockage in the eye’s drainage area where the cornea and iris meet. It can also occur in those with normal eye pressure and is believed to be a result of poor blood
flow to the optic nerve. Open-angle and angle-closure are the two primary types of glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of the disease and progresses slowly over time.
Angle-closure glaucoma is less common but progresses quickly with a painful, sudden buildup of pressure in the eye because the angle of the drainage area is too narrow. Gradual loss of peripheral vision is a common symptom of openangle glaucoma. Symptoms usually go unnoticed until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. Angle-closure glaucoma symptoms are more abrupt. Symptoms include severe eye pain, headache, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, seeing haloes around lights and red eye. People most at risk of developing glaucoma include those: • Aged 40 and over • Of Hispanic, Asian or AfricanAmerican descent • With a family history of the disease • Diagnosed with diabetes or hypertension • Who’ve had an eye injury or eye surgery • With extreme nearsightedness (myopia) • Taking steroid medications for an extended period of time Most of the risk factors for developing glaucoma cannot be prevented,and the optic nerve doesn’t regenerate itself. However, glaucoma can be successfully controlled with an early diagnosis and treatment to slow down or stop further damage. The goal is to lower eye pressure with treatment ranging from eye drops to laser surgery and microsurgery. Everyone 40 and over should
have a comprehensive dilated eye exam every two to three years from their eye care professional to check for glaucoma and other eye diseases. Individuals most likely to develop glaucoma should get an eye exam once a year, including those 40 and over with other risk factors or 60 and over.
Dr. Christopher Tortora, a board certified ophthalmologist, is host of “The Hawaiian Eye Show,” a weekly informational radio program about healthy vision broadcast live every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KHVH 830 AM/rebroadcast at 9 p.m. on KHBZ 990 AM. He and his colleagues at the Hawaiian Eye Center are committed to educating the public about the importance of preventative eye care. To learn more about a variety of eye health issues, please call the Hawaiian Eye Center at 621-8448 or visit w w w. H a w a i i a n E y e . c o m and w w w . F a c e b o o k . c o m / HawaiianEyeCenter, where “life has nev
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THE FIL-AM COURIER • JANUARY 16-31, 2016 • PAGE 19
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