Hawaii Filipino Chronicle - April 5, 2025

APRIL 5, 2025

FEATURE

Rep. La Chica Selected to Future Caucus Innovation Fellowship

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS

BIBLE REFLECTIONS

The American Dream…

No More

A Journey of Faith and Healing

CANDID PERSPECTIVES

Trump’s National Security Lapse— Why Signal-Gate And The War Plan Blunder Matters

2 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  APRIL 5, 2025

EDITORIAL

Come Out and Support Doctors-on-Stage Latest Production “Love: Found & Lost,” a Charitable Concert to Benefit the Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls

O

nce again, Doctors-on-Stage (DOS) taps into the universal theme of love in its latest production “Love: Found & Lost, It’s Better to Have Loved and Lost Than Never to Have Loved at All.” Content creator and producer of DOS Dr. Charlie Sonido follows in the footsteps of great thinkers, philosophers, musicians, artists, writers, who’ve taken this challenge to make sense of what we’ve all wrestled with at some point in our life. And what is it? -- how do we cope with, survive and prevail over the loss of a loved one.

A love lost by death, divorce, mutual separation, rejection, and so on carry mixed meanings and reactions.

But what they all have in common is the brute force love loss thrusts upon all individuals involved that often forever change our perspectives in life, and in many cases, requires emotional and psychological healing.

In this light, it’s fitting that doctors who spend their entire working careers in the business of healing -- explore the depths of this universal topic and present it in their latest Doctors-on-Stage theatrical concert series that’s been ongoing now for over two decades. DOS cast members are mostly comprised of doctors and medical professionals.

It’s never an easy task to take on a subject as serious and life-impacting as this one without the risk of falling flat. Then there is the added pressure to effectively connect to an audience that stage performances require.

But based on past DOS performances, we’re confident the singers and creative team of DOS “Love: Found & Lost” will articulate a high degree of artistry and creativity that the audience will enjoy and find entertaining. For a group of non-career performing artists, DOS always lands standing in each of their productions.

“Love: Found & Lost” is Doctors-on-Stage’s 10th production. Just a few other DOS themes explored in the past: “Fundemic” (a timely topic then on life in the aftermath of the coronavirus); “Rainbow Connection” (about the immigrant experience from the Philippines to Hawaii); “Butterflies and Kisses” (on the challenges and rewards of raising children);“Believe: In Praise of Faith and Freedom” (on spirituality and how faith-based solutions can help with everyday life).

Sing and dance for a cause DOS is truly a unique generational project in our Filipino community that successfully ties in performance arts with fundraising for charity. Dr. Sonido, who co-founded BCWW said, “We [DOS cast] are singing and dancing for a cause.”

Proceeds of the DOS concerts go to the Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls (BCWW), a non-profit organization that provides free medical care to newly arrived legal immigrants without health insurance.

Many of the DOS performers are also members of the BCWW who receive and treat patient referrals from BCWW at their own medical practice for free.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

D

octors-on-Stage (DOS) presents its 10th production “Love: Found & Lost, It’s Better to Have Loved and Lost Than Never to Have Loved at All,” which as always is produced by Dr. Charlie Sonido. The theme of love is interwoven in all DOS productions, but this one focusing on love separation and loss is somewhat sadder, Sonido says, but a “mirror of real life.” A talented cast of past DOS veterans returns with the addition of new members. For our cover story this issue, associate editor Edwin Quinabo, gives us the details of the concert and what our community is saying about DOS productions. We hope you get a chance to attend this show for a good cause on Saturday, April 26, 2025, 6:00 p.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center Hawaii. Proceeds will go to Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls, which offers free medical and dental services to immigrants without health insurance. Tickets are $100, $50 and $25. For more information, call 808518-8929, 808-387-8297.

Also, this issue HFC contributor Renelaine Bontol Pfister writes a feature on State Representative Trish La Chica who was selected for the 2025-2026 Future Caucus Innovation Fellowship, a two-year fellowship for Gen Z and millennial lawmakers. Originally from the Philippines, then California and finally winding up in Hawaii, La Chica is on the rise in House leadership.

HFC columnist Seneca Moraleda-Puguan gives us a moving article “The American Dream… No More” about the hostile migration situation in our country. Seneca’s perspective on migration is personal as she and many in her family are migrants to many parts of the world. “These relationships remind me that migration is not just a political issue - it is deeply personal. It affects real people, real families, and real children who, like mine, just want to belong. Yet today, migration is under siege. In the United States, people who have lived legally for decades now live in fear,” she said.

Another moving personal article this issue is found in our Bible Reflections. Anikka Kenzie Santos, a 14-yearold survivor of bone cancer, tells us about her struggle to survive since being diagnosed at the age of 9, her painful treatments over the years and eventual amputation of one leg. Find out what she says helped her during this harrowing time and why she’s optimistic about the future.

In national news, HFC columnist Emil Guillermo contributes “Trump’s National Security Lapse— Why Signal-Gate and The War Plan Blunder Matters.” He writes, “The highest levels of the Trump administration have been caught discussing real U.S. war plans on an encrypted but not top-secret consumer app called Signal.” Why should this matter? Find out in the article. We hope you enjoy these articles and our other interesting columns and news.

Thank you for supporting the HFC. Visit thefilipinochronicle.com to get your free e-copy of each issue. For your advertising needs, contact us at: filipinochronicle@ gmail.com. Until the next issue, Aloha and Mabuhay!

Publisher & Executive Editor Charlie Y. Sonido, M.D.

Publisher & Managing Editor

Chona A. Montesines-Sonido

Associate Editors

Edwin QuinaboDennis Galolo

Contributing Editor

Belinda Aquino, Ph.D.

Design

Junggoi Peralta

Photography Tim Llena

Administrative Assistant Lilia Capalad

Editorial & Production Assistant Jim Bea Sampaga

Columnists

Carlota Hufana Ader Rose Cruz Churma Elpidio R. Estioko Willie Espero Emil Guillermo Gary Hooser Arcelita Imasa, M.D. Seneca Moraleda-Puguan J.P. Orias Charlie Sonido, M.D. Emmanuel S. Tipon, Esq.

Contributing Writers

Clement Bautista Edna Bautista, Ed.D. Teresita Bernales, Ed.D. Sheryll Bonilla, Esq. Dr. Dylan Bothamley Serafin Colmenares Jr., Ph.D. Linda Dela Cruz Carolyn Weygan-Hildebrand Amelia Jacang, M.D. Caroline Julian Max Levin Raymond Ll. Liongson, Ph.D. Federico Magdalena, Ph.D. Matthew Mettias Maita Millalos Paul Melvin Palalay, M.D. Renelaine Bontol-Pfister Seneca Moraleda-Puguan Jay Valdez, Psy.D. Amado Yoro

Philippine Correspondent: Greg Garcia

Neighbor Island Correspondents: Big Island (Hilo and Kona) Grace LarsonDitas Udani Kauai Millicent Wellington Maui Christine Sabado Big Island Distributors Grace LarsonDitas Udani Kauai Distributors Amylou Aguinaldo Nestor Aguinaldo Maui Distributors

Cecille PirosRey Piros

Molokai Distributor Maria Watanabe Oahu Distributors Yoshimasa Kaneko Shalimar / Jonathan Pagulayan

Advertising / Marketing Director Chona A. Montesines-Sonido

Account Executives Carlota Hufana Ader JP Orias

According to the BCWW website, BCWW has approximately 50 volunteer doctors and dentists who see an average of 100 uninsured patients per month for free in their private offices. It is a continuing collaborative endeavor with the Hawaii State Department of Health’s Lanakila Easy Access Project (LEAP), Hawaii State Department of Health. (continue on page 3)

APRIL 5, 2025  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  3

EDITORIAL

Democrats Struggle to Regain Their Footing, Who Is Being Rejected, and Who Are Emerging as Leaders of the Party?

T

he Democratic Party has been struggling to unite since their shellacking in the last national election.

It’s no surprise then that Dem party leaders are also confused and splintered on how to combat President Donald Trump and Republicans.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer ignited ire for his vote to advance Republicans’ spending bill to avert a government shutdown.

In ordinary times, Schumer’s typical establishment response – reserved cooperation specific to a spending bill -- wouldn’t have generated massive protests among grassroots Dems or other Democratic elected officials. But considering the utter chaos caused by Trump and his DOGE, the mass firings, threats to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid – a majority of Dems progressive or moderate, expected a fiercer fight from Schumer.

Only eight senators voted with Schumer and Republicans – including Hawaii’s Brian Schatz – to pass the continuing resolution (CR), which will extend government funding until September 30.

At the House, while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries steered Dems to vote against the spending bill, he hasn’t spoken out critically against his counterpart in the Senate.

In a fairly dry response on

the CR, Jeffries said, “The House Republican spending bill is an attack on everyday Americans. It will cut healthcare, cut veterans benefits and cut nutritional assistance to children and families. It is unacceptable.

And that is why there was a strong showing of opposition amongst House Democrats. We stand ready, willing and able to negotiate a bipartisan spending agreement that meets the needs of the American people in terms of their economic well-being, health and safety.”

It is Jeffries first time as House leader under a Republican-led trifecta.

There’s been reports that Nancy Pelosi – who served as speaker during President George W. Bush and the first administration of Trump – advised Jeffries “to use your power” and sharpen Democrats’ strategy.

Schumer is the veteran legislator here but hasn’t provided a needed vision for a Democratic party in crisis. Jeffries must step up or step aside. The same could be said for Schumer who is facing intense pressure – and deservedly -- to step down as Minority Leader.

Democrats are angry and want more from their Democrat leaders Grassroots Democrats in town halls across the nation say it’s not just about challenging the limits of Trump’s power or the pas-

sage of the CR. It’s also not whether Schumer and Jeffries can align their political strategy. But rather, that the Democratic Party needs to be bolder in their advocacy of working Americans, which is why some traditional Dem factions left the party to vote for Trump in the first place, erroneously believing that he would lower inflation.

To just offer opposition to Trump without offering a new commitment to issues that matter to working people will not bring back Democrats who left the party or chose not to vote in the last election.

A CNN poll taken March 6-9, days before 10 Democratic senators voted with Republicans suggests discontent does in fact go deeper than the CR vote.

52% of Democratic-aligned adults say that the leadership of the Democratic Party is currently taking the party in the wrong direction. Among the American public overall, the Democratic Party’s favorability rating stands at just 29% – a record low in CNN’s polling dating back to 1992.

Make no mistake, Americans are angry, concerned, even scared about their ability to survive.

Americans are already being stretched to their limits financially. And the situation could worsen as critical programs potentially face cuts or be privatized in the near to distant future if Democrats do not get their

act together as soon as the next midterm election.

vices BCWW provides are primary healthcare, obstetrics and gynecology, breast examination, osteoporosis screening, hernia screening, colo-rectal/prostate examination, ophthalmology, dental emergencies, laboratory services (selected and limited), and counseling.

Love Lost” will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, 6:00 p.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center Hawaii. For more information, call 808-5188929, 808-387-8297. We encourage our Filipino community to show your support.

A big mahalo to the cast of “Love: Found & Lost” and Doctors-on-Stage sponsors.

We wish you success on

Who do Democrats think reflect the core values of the Party?

In another CNN poll, Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents were asked to name one person when “thinking about Democratic leaders today” who “best reflects the core values of the Democratic Party.” The results: 10% pointed to U.S. Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), 9% said former Vice President Kamale Harris, 8% said Sen. Bernie Sanders, and 6% said Jeffries. The others were 4% to former President Barack Obama and Rep Jasmine Crockett, and 2% to Schumer, Gov. Gavin Newsom, Pelosi, and Sen. Elissa Slotkin.

Interestingly, none of the vice presidentiables from the last election – mostly all establishment Democrats like Govs Tim Walz, Josh Shapiro, Gretchen Whitmer, JB Pritzker – who were touted by big media then as the future of the Democratic Party were mentioned in this “open-ended” question.

Bernie Sanders and AOC Fighting Oligarchy Tour One poll is only a snapshot in time, but could there be sustained momentum building among 2 of the top 3 in that CNN poll – AOC and Bernie Sanders?

The two recently teamed

up to do a Fighting Oligarchy Tour at several battleground districts: Las Vegas, Nevada, Tempe and Tucson, Arizona, Denver and Greeley, Colorado. Turnout at these rallies were in the tens of thousands (34,000 in Denver) and they received copious national press coverage.

The tour was not self-campaigning for their political future, but rather to bring attention to the dangers of oligarchy in which a handful of billionaires have extreme outsized influence in controlling government.

It was also about messaging of popular progressive causes like Medicare for All, livable wages and affordable housing -- issues that were either ignored or subordinated in the last failed election.

“This isn’t just about Republicans,” AOC said. “We need a Democratic Party that fights harder for us too.

But what that means is that we as a community must choose and vote for Democrats and elected officials who know how to stand for the working class,” she said at the Las Vegas rally.

AOC said Americans need to elect brawlers to fight for working people because these are the politicians who can defeat Trump. She is right. It bodes well for all Democratic leaders to listen more to what their base wants – a pro-working class agenda, and less to what their big donors demand if the party hopes to win.

(Come Out...from page 2)

Who qualifies for free medical services through BCWW? Immigrants, indigent locals, homeless or anyone unable to afford traditional medical and dental coverage, according to their website. What’s the process? First you must go to the LEAP office in Lanakila Health Center in Kalihi where there will be a brief interview for eligibility.

If you’re qualified,

you will be given a referral slip with the name and address of a BCWW physician or dentist. For more information, contact LEAP at (808) 832-5685 or visit the Lanakila Health Center, 1700 Lanakila Avenue Suite 1104.

Bayanihan, which means to help one another, is an affiliate of the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii (PMAH).

Just a few of the ser-

Be there and mahalo DOS’s latest production “Love: Found &

the performance night.

Kudos also to BCWW for your continued charitable contributions to the community. If you would like to donate to BCWW, visit: pmah-hawaii.org/ bayanihan.

We invite you to watch the show and support a noteworthy project! Mabuhay to Doctors-on-Stage and Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls! 

4 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  APRIL 5, 2025

COVER STORY

Doctors-on-Stage Presents Its Latest Production, “Love: Found & Lost, It’s Better to Have Loved and Lost Than Never to Have Loved at All”

By Edwin Quinabo

B

ack to breathe life onto stage for charity is the 10th production of Doctors-on-Stage (DOS), produced by Dr. Charlie Sonido, who is also the concept originator of this year’s theme: “Love: Found & Lost, ‘It’s Better to Have Loved and Lost than Never to Have Loved at All.’” Concert, musical and theater en- Front (L to R) : Dr. Benilda Luz-Llena, Dr. Ritabelle Fernandes, Dr. Charlie Sonido and thusiasts can catch DOS’s latest pro- Dr. Sorbella Guillermo Row (L to R): Dr. Nestor del Rosario, Dr. Mel Ona, Dr. Ross Simafranca and Dr. Jay Flores duction on Saturday, April 26, 2025, Back Photograhy: Tim Llena 6:00 p.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center Hawaii. Tickets are $100, $50 Love Lost -- is similar to our previous for all the needs of newly arrived unand $25. For more information, call productions of love stories in that love insured immigrants but kind-hearted is a universal feeling and that love nev- providers and organizations who are 808-518-8929, 808-387-8297. willing to see these patients for a minier dies,” he adds. mal administrative fee have helped us DOS’ theme this year make a difference on the lives of these This proverbial pearl of wisdom – Love of charity for BCWW The very purpose of DOS is an ex- patients in a small but significant way. “better to have lost love than never to have loved at all” -- was penned by the pression of love itself as all Doctors- The professional service of the physiEnglish poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson on-Stage productions are the main cians itself is free.” during the Victorian era, and popular- fundraisers for the Bayanihan Clinic ized in mainstream cinema over time Without Walls (BCWW), a clinic that The Production and Cast Artistic director JP Orias said folto embody the anguish caused by love offers free medical and dental services to newly arrived legal immigrants who lowing its tri-media format in all its 10 lost and separation.

The full meaning of past DOS pro- cannot afford health insurance. “The productions, “Love Found and Lost is ductions always came through loud proceeds from DOS helps to defray presented with singers, dancers and and clear with the concept of love – medical expenses of legal immigrants video clips on rear projection screen. and its many shades, expressions and seeking healthcare,” said Dr. Sonido, Its production staff include writers, complexities -- as a recurring theme. a co-founder of BCWW, which is a IT experts, live musicians in the theIn DOS’s 2018 “Noblesse Oblige” it ex- non-profit community-based health- ater atmosphere of the Salvation Army plored love for community as a mor- care organization that was established Kroc Center in Ewa.” Orias adds, “selected by producer al economy. In “Butterflies & Kisses” by the Philippine Medical Association (2008) and “Love Stories” (2010) eu- of Hawaii (PMAH) on April 17, 1997. Dr. Charlie Sonido, the love songs are Ariel “Jay” Flores, President of romantic. They are dramatic, inspiphoric romantic love shone as a theme while DOS’s first production “In Tune BCWW and cast member of DOS said, rational and tear jerkers from various with War & Peace” (2004) aroused love “Doctors-on-Stage has been the prima- composers ranging from Lady Gaga, ry fundraising arm of BCWW since Bruno Mars, Bacharach, Gibbs, Sondfor family, country, and service.

“This present production of a love the organization’s inception. 100% heim, Loui Ocampo, and Puccini. They that’s lost is a sadder side of love. The of the net proceeds of our concerts are span through the ages of puppy love storyline reflects reality, that people fall used by BCWW for its day-to-day op- and immortalized concepts of love of Evita Peron. It was fun stringing them in love and at some point, there is sepa- erations.”

He explains, “BCWW reimburses all together into a new musicale of top ration by death or divorce, followed by grief and the challenge to climb out of participating physicians and dentists hits which is as of this writing, not it, a journey toward redemption. This for their services to uninsured immi- known to have been done on Broadis real life,” Dr. Sonido said. “Some in grants. We also have negotiated dis- way.”

He mentions some of the showstopour cast like in every population in so- counted rates for laboratory services at ciety have had issues of separation and Diagnostic Labs and imaging services pers. “Song ranges from contempowe found this production as a healing at Hawaii Diagnostic Radiology Ser- rary songs like Die with a Smile, APT, (continue on page 5) process for all of us. Love Found and vices. We are unable to fully provide

APRIL 5, 2025  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  5

COVER STORY (Filipino Catholics ....from page 4)

classics like O Mio Babbino Caro, Kahit Isang Saglit, all-time favorites like Alfie Endless Love, How Can You Mend a Broken Heart by the Bee Gees.”

The DOS cast pulling off artful vocals and acting with persuasive talent over two decades have been comprised of physicians, those in the medical profession, family members and invited special guests. This year’s cast features: Nestor Del Rosario, MD, Ariel Jay Flores, DPT, Ritabelle Fernandez, MD, Sorbella Cielo Guillermo, MD, Noelani Hobbs-Jackson, MD, Dan Dan Lucero, MD, Benilda Luz Llena, MD, Mel Ona, MD, Karl Primero, MD, Alfie Y Riveral, MD, Ross Simafranca, MD, Shiloh Flores, Monica Lopez, Kainoa Jackson, Rosalie Woodson Dance Academy, Pike Velasco, Jeannette Trevias, Duane Padilla, Abe Lagrimas, Mark Arinosa, Harold Ibea, Change Ibea, producer Charlie Sonido, MD, artisOffstage with Doctorson-Stage Flores, who was in five major productions and multiple small engagements with PMAH and OMM, said, “although this production has a small cast, we will still have an awesome production because of the involvement of guest performers and the Rosalie Woodson Dance Academy. There are no specific characters or roles in this show, but I will do my best to interpret the songs assigned to me.”

In 2011, Flores invited Dr. Charlie Sonido to the “King and I” at Diamond Head Theater where he performed as Lun Tha alongside Paolo Montalban, who played the King. Dr. Sonido invited him to sing at a PMAH event in January 2012 and Flores joined his first Doctors-on-Stage concert, “Believe” in October 2012.

A physical therapist, DPT, Flores has been in the local theatre scene having played Lun Tha in The King and I, Thuy in

tic director JP Orias, Tim Llena, Tristan Mitchell, Kathy Adaoag, Jane & Company.

“The cast are excellent singers.

There will be beautiful duets, and with a touch of [Bruno] Mars,” Dr. Sonido said, who has been the producer of all the DOS productions and selected songs and themes for all shows.

DOS’ first production was held at the Neal Blaisdell Center, was attended by over 1,200 people and raised over $80,000 for BCWW. Other DOS venues were the FilCom Center, Farrington HS Auditorium, Aulani Disney, Halekulani Hotel and Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Ed Polanco, Nuuanu, attended the first DOS production “In Tune with War & Peace.” “From start to finish, the show maxed out my attention. It was dramatic, soulful and entertaining. I was surprised at the vocal talent of the cast.

We know many doctors, typically as children, played musical instru-

Miss Saigon, Bustopher Jones, Asparagus and Growltiger in CATS, the “All Good Gifts” soloist in Godspell, and Simon Zealotes and Annas in Jesus Christ Superstar.

He was also in Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Cinderella, Kismet, and Elton John’s Aida. He was part of the Mae Z. Orvis Opera Studio at the Hawaii Opera Theatre and was cast in Pirates of Penzance.

Ross Simafranca, MD, a general surgeon, has been in multiple DOS productions. On this show, he said, “Who doesn’t like a good love story. Unfortunately, in life, it doesn’t always end on a good note. In this production, I play a few different characters. In ‘Found Tonight’ and ‘Tell Her’ I help to encourage others to act on their emotions and not to be afraid of being vulnerable. And if times get a bit rough, then reach out and I’ll be there to support you as best as I can. In ‘How

Do You Mend a Broken Heart’ and ‘I Can’t Make You Love Me,’ I find myself struggling with sorrow and the despair that comes with realizing that love may not always be reciprocal. Finally, in ‘It Takes Two,’ I discuss what it truly means to be in a partnership -- both willing to tackle life’s trials together.”

Simafranca first got involved with DOS shortly after opening up his practice at then St. Francis West in 2007. “Finding other physicians who had the same passion for medicine and music, it was an easy decision for me when asked to join.

Even more so, it gives me great pleasure to know that I’m helping to support the Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls as it strives to continue to help our Filipino community.”

Ritabelle Fernandez, MD, was previously in DOS’ “Downtrodden” and “Fundemic.” She said, “Found and Lost is the storyline that many can relate to. C’est la vie - getting married and then

“This present production of a love that’s lost is a sadder side of love. The storyline reflects reality, that people fall in love and at some point, there is separation by death or divorce, followed by grief and the challenge to climb out of it, a journey toward redemption. This is real life. Some in our cast like in every population in society have had issues of separation and we found this production as a healing process for all of us. Love Found and Love Lost -- is similar to our previous productions of love stories in that love is a universal feeling and that love never dies.”

– Charlie Sonido, MD Doctors-on-Stage Producer

ments and gravitated to the arts. DOS brought that passion forward to the stage back then in the early 2000s and has never let up. DOS is a generational project that our Filipino community should support, and proceeds of the shows go toward a great cause,” he said. sadly divorced, finding love and later breaking up. My character will bring out the ethos, pathos, and logos of love!”

Dr. Fernandez has a music teachers’ diploma, Licentiate Trinity College of Music London, taught classical piano in Mumbai India and presently takes singing lessons from Kristian Lei, who played the lead role of Kim in the Cameron Mackintosh Production of “Miss Saigon” in Stuttgart, Germany.

For Mel Ona, MD, gastroenterologist, it’s his second DOS production. “I love the theme of this production - which is about LOVE (Found & Lost). I love having the opportunity to perform with amazing friends/ colleagues and share the joy of music with others. Music truly heals the heart and soul! Dr. Sorbella Guillermo encouraged me to join the DOS production during the COVID pandemic and I feel grateful to be part of the DOS family,” he said.

Dr. Ona was a music/

pre-med major in college and performed regularly with college choir, chamber singers, and various music groups. More recently, he participated in a concert for a four-song EP released in 2023 that he recorded with his vocal coach, Kristian Lei. He also performed at various local events with Kristian Lei. Sorbella “Cielo” Guillermo, MD, internal medicine and pediatrics, is one of the original cast members of DOS, even predating DOS in community performance as one of the singers in one of PMAH’s Family Night Gala in Maui. “DOS was created after that Gala, with our first production at the Blaisdell Concert Hall when my youngest kid Erica Brenner was only three years old and was then a part of the show,” she said.

On preparation for a DOS production, Guillermo said it takes about six weeks. “DOS performers stick together to make a production happen despite (continue on page 6)

6 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  APRIL 5, 2025

COVER STORY (Doctors-On-Stage ....from page 5)

our very hectic schedules in our clinics and family time. I hope to expect the best outcome from each of us since we will be singing and performing from the heart. DOS is also for a good cause. We’ve been helping a lot of uninsured immigrations.”

Benilda, Luz-Llena, MD, pediatrician, is another original DOS cast member who started in DOS’ first production. In Love Found and Love Lost, she will be in the ensemble songs, the “All Girls Song” and in a trio. “I got involved with DOS to help raise funds for BCWW of which I’m a member and a volunteer provider. DOS is a nice break from our busy work schedule. It’s stress relief. Being able to perform with my talented friends-colleagues is a privilege and the camaraderie among the DOS family is very good.”

Nestor Del Rosario, MD, internist, is a veteran performer of DOS who’s graced the stage for over two decades. He said besides the fundraising from the DOS performances, these same doctors are also the ones taking care of those patients, needing help with some ancillary services and medication.

He’s been with BCWW “way back before the year

2000 when I was new here.”

On DOS, “I still love working with them. I am getting into the twilight years and as others lose their hair, mine has grown longer. Face is almost the same, still unable to grow beard. Belly’s gotten bigger making other things smaller. Don’t have a dirty mind, I am not talking about what you are thinking, I am talking about life. I am still the same guy I have always been, just slower with lots of aches and pains. And I still sing in the bathroom and in the car even when everyone’s looking at me.”

Comments on previous DOS productions Dr. Rhea Bautista, Honolulu, watched four DOS productions, “I enjoy the way Doctors-on-Stage brings the community together to celebrate culture, song, and dance. Sharing the stage with fellow community members makes me feel connected and inspired. We’re not just performing, we’re coming together to fundraise for the greater good, keeping the mission of bayanihan alive and thriving.”

Dr. Rainier Bautista, Honolulu, attended four DOS productions, “I have always been abso-

lutely blown away by the Doctors-on-Stage productions. The performances were deeply moving and inspiring, brilliantly capturing the heart and compassion of our healthcare community. Seeing our local physicians and healthcare workers step onto the stage with such impressive talent, humor, and creativity made each show unforgettable. The music, storytelling, and heartfelt message beautifully showcased our Filipino heritage and the incredible dedication behind Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls.

Truly an outstanding and uplifting experience.”

Nikka Aquino, Ewa Beach, a four-time attendee, said “DOS production allows physicians, APRNs, nurses to showcase their talents while raising funds for a great cause. One of the things I enjoy most about this production is the camaraderie and bond built and formed among colleagues until the end of curtain call. It is also immense fun to see our well-esteemed health care workers in a different type of spotlight and arena. It’s a joy to see them on stage without their stethoscope, scrubs, and whitecoats performing numbers of dance and song. It’s like seeing a different side - a side not seen within the walls of a clinic.”

Dr. Ian E. Guerrero, Kapolei, attended three DOS productions, “DOS has always been a blockbuster and an audience drawer. Every production has a theme and a story to tell like the FUNDEMIC which is a production made out during COVID that captures the struggles, the emotions and the triumphs of the physician work force and the community during those critical times. DOS happens once every 2 -3 years that showcases the talents in singing, dancing and storytelling of our local physicians and healthcare

partners despite their busy schedules, all united and committed for a cause for the mission and vision of the Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls.”

Chris Yamada, Mililani Town, watched almost all the DOS productions, “I enjoy all types of musical performances, but the DOS productions are unique because the doctors are the performers and their singing, dancing are fun to watch.

Most of all, this is all for a good cause and all proceeds go to fund medical assistance for our needy population.”

Teresita Bernales, Kailua, watched eight DOS productions, “DOS productions are a heartfelt and innovative initiative born from a desire to merge the artistic talents of healthcare professionals with their unwavering commitment to serving vulnerable communities. The inspiration behind Doctors-OnStage stems from the need to address healthcare disparities while fostering community involvement and awareness. Through musicals performed by physicians and healthcare workers, these productions highlight the human side of medicine, encouraging audiences to support BCWW’s cause.

They also celebrate the artistic talents of healthcare professionals —many of whom excel in singing, dancing, and acting. Rooted in cultural values such as bayanihan (community spirit), these performances reflect the Filipino ethos of collective action and selfless service. Dr. Charlie Sonido, a multi-talented physician and co-founder of BCWW, has been instrumental in conceptualizing themes, managing logistics, and ensuring the continuity of these performances. Over the years, these productions have brought themes of conflict resolution, diversity, hope, love, resilience, faith, per-

sonal growth, and community connections to life.”

Sponsors As of press time, sponsors of “Love: Found & Lost” are Diagnostic Laboratories of Hawaii, Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii, Hawaii Filipino Healthcare, Primary Care Clinic of Hawaii, Hawaii Filipino Chronicle, Ohana Medical Missions, Aloha Care/ Ritabelle Fernandes, Kuakini Health System, Dr. Elizabeth Abinsay & Hazel Abinsay, Dr. Perlita Lampitoc, Manawa Lea/ Maria Rabago, Primary Tax Services/Dory Villafuerte, Financial Benefit Insurance/Klem Unciano, Rosenberg, McKay, & Hoffman, Armas Financial Services, ABC Transport, Dr. Ray Romero of Westshore Neurology, Richard Pecson of Wealth Strategies Group, Ming Chen MD, Hawaii Dermatology/ Dr. William Wong, Hawaii Diagnostic Radiology Services, Jojie Waite-Ansdell, Dr. Gary Okamura, Mario Garcia/Windows Hawaii Inc., Dr. Benilda & Tim Llena, Dr. Sorbella Guillermo/MD Rejuvenation Center, Home Away From Home/Ema Arellano, Dr. & Mrs. Fortunato Elizaga, Dr. Nestor del Rosario, Dr. Russell Tacata, Waipahu Therapy Center, Dr. Mel Ona, Dr. Ross Simafranca, Dr. Corrine Hobbs, Hobbs Medical Group, Dr. Carolina Davide, Dr. Aurora Mariani, Dr. Emma Avila, McMann Eye Institute/Dr. Michael McMann, Pediatric Medical Group, LLC, Dr. Alfie Riveral, Westside Surgical Services, LLC, Kapolei Primary Medical Clinic, Dr. Nicanor & Imelda Joaquin, Alfredo’s Medical Acupuncture & Massage, Dr. Gavino Vinzons, Retuta Care Home, Cayabyab Care Home, Dr. Alberto Santos-Ocampo, Drs. Ankur and Shilpa Jain, Dr. Jeffrey Lee, and Movement Plus.

APRIL 5, 2025  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  7

WHAT’S UP, ATTORNEY?

Can a President Refuse to Obey a Supreme Court Decision?

By Atty. Emmanuel S. Tipon

U

nder our system of checks and balances, Congress makes the laws, the Supreme Court interprets them, and the President executes the law. Article II of the Constitution says that the president “shall take care that the laws be faithfully executed.”

But what happens when the President refuses to obey a Supreme Court decision? Can he do it? Would he do it?

This question has come up because a U.S. district judge in the District of Columbia, appointed by President Obama, said that he wanted to find out whether officials of the Trump administration violated his verbal command to immediately turn around two planes carrying illegal aliens to an El Salvador prison so that he could determine whether the Alien Enemies Act applied to them.

President Trump had invoked the Act in an executive order to deport alleged members of the Tren de Aragua, a transnational criminal organization originating in Venezuela.

Trump campaigned on deporting illegal aliens to Make America Great Again. Trump won overwhelmingly.

The U.S. Department of Justice, representing President Trump, said the judge has exceeded his authority in blocking the removals, arguing that Trump’s use of the law is unreviewable by the federal courts.

Trump has reportedly called the judge a “radical

left lunatic” and a “trouble maker” and called for his impeachment, according to The Guardian.

A member of Congress said that he would file articles of impeachment against the judge.

Chief Justice John Roberts, however, said that “For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreements concerning a judicial decision. The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.”

Prophets of doom say that if the President refused to follow a court’s order, it would wreak havoc to more than 200 years of constitutional history. That is why they have to carry it out.

For instance, President George W. Bush disagreed with a Supreme Court decision holding that detainees in Guantanamo Bay could challenge their confinement.

He said: “We’ll abide by the Court’s decision.

That does not mean that I have to agree with it.”

Presidents Have Refused To Obey A Supreme Court Decision.

A president has defied a Supreme Court decision. In 1832, President Andrew Jackson defied the U.S. Supreme Court, reportedly saying, “John Marshall has made his decision, now let him enforce it.”

The case was Worcester v. Georgia, 31 U.S. (6 Pet.) 515 (1832), where the Supreme Court set aside the conviction of a missionary, Samuel A. Worcester, who was liv-

ing and preaching the gospel in the Cherokee Nation in the State of Georgia without a license or permit and without taking an oath to support the laws of Georgia.

The Court held that the Cherokee Nation was a distinct community occupying its own territory in which the laws of Georgia had no force.

The Court ordered that Worcester be released. President Andrew Jackson refused to enforce the decision since he was a supporter of Indian removal, and his action led to the forced removal of the Cherokee people from their land, resulting in the Trail of Tears, a journey in which thousands died.

In 1861, during the Civil War, John Merryman, a citizen of Baltimore, Maryland, was arrested by a military force under orders of Major-General George Cadwalader of the U.S. Army.

He filed a petition for a writ of habeas corpus with the Supreme Court.

The officer declined to produce him, saying that Merryman was being held on a charge of treason and had in his possession arms belonging to the United States, and that the officer was duly authorized by the President of the United States to suspend the writ of ha-

beas corpus for the public safety.

The Court, in Ex parte Merryman, 17 Fed. Cas. 10, held, with Justice Robert B. Taney writing the decision, that the President cannot suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus nor authorize a military officer to do it.

Lincoln ignored Taney and did not release Merryman. He maintained that he had the power to suspend the writ of habeas corpus.

What Happened To Checks And Balances?

So, Presidents have refused to carry out Supreme court decisions.

What has happened to checks and balances?

The question remains: Suppose the case in the

District of Columbia goes all the way to the Supreme Court, what will the Supreme Court do?

Knowing that President Trump is determined to deport alien criminals in order to fulfill his mandate to “Make America Great Again”, it is unlikely that the Supreme Court will confront Trump with an adverse decision that Trump could ignore.

The Supreme Court could rule that the plaintiffs in the case have no standing to file the case on behalf of the aliens who have already been deported. The plaintiffs in the case are 5 Venezuelans who fear being deported and the ACLU. Article III of the Constitution provides that “The Judicial Power shall extend to all Cases, in Law and Equity, arising under the Constitution, [and] the Laws of the United States....” To have standing in order to invoke the judicial power, the plaintiff must have suffered a distinct and palpable injury as a result of the putatively illegal conduct of the defendant.

The 5 Venezuelans and (continue on page 10)

8 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  APRIL 5, 2025

LINGERING THOUGHTS

E-Bikes, OHA Disappointment, and Donald Trump’s Presidency

By Will Espero

T

he local news recently showed stories about e-bikers and e-motorcycles causing mayhem and chaos in Ewa Beach.

It was reported that the e-riders were committing numerous violations and disrupting the tranquility of the evening with as many as 200 riders gathering together.

The BikeFactory Hawaii is the store that organized the riding event, which is done regularly.

Videos on television showed many police intervening and trying to calm the situation.

Residents living in the area were fearful and stayed inside their homes to avoid the mayhem caused by mostly younger riders. It was reported that one rider was as young as seven years old.

Riders were illegally riding on the median strip, sidewalks, and roads. Some residents who witnessed the event were harassed and assaulted.

As of this writing, multiple investigations were ongoing by the police.

One 16-year-old male was arrested for disobeying a police officer, driving without the proper license, and disorderly conduct.

When I saw the video on the news, I was appalled and angry at what was going on in my community. The blatant disregard of the law was obvious. I blame parents for the actions of their children.

I was surprised that only one person was ar-

rested, according to the nightly news.

Parents must be held accountable for their children’s actions, and I hope more arrests occur to send a strong message to these lawbreakers.

If parents or guardians cannot control their children on these bikes, which can cause serious injury and death, the children should not have e-bikes and e-motorcycles.

The Honolulu Police Department must come down hard on these individuals and enforce local laws.

Parents must speak to their children and demand that they follow the laws and rules related to e-bikes. Failure to follow these rules and laws must have serious consequences.

The Honolulu City Council recently passed laws about e-bike use, and the Hawaii State Legislature is currently crafting legislation on e-bikes.

Education within stores before and after a purchase must be available. Maybe an online class or online information can be developed, and parents can have their children utilize these online resources.

In February, a 7-yearold was killed in Ewa Beach while riding an e-bike. This sad accident should be a wake-up call to regulate e-bikes, enforce the laws, and think safety first when e-bikes are being used.

The Hawaii Legislature is now in session, and many more important issues are up for discussion and debate.

Federal cuts in state spending, affordable

housing, a new jail to replace OCCC, homelessness, the rhinoceros beetle, and many other bills are being considered and can be seen or followed via capital.hawaii.gov.

One bill that failed or died was the measure to allow the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) to develop their land in Kakaako, which is makai of Ala Moana Boulevard.

OHA wanted to build market and affordable housing on these lands and provide opportunities like the surrounding lands in the area.

Those opposed to the bill did not want to see OHA develop the lands and wanted to see as little development as possible to keep the area open for all to enjoy. This is wrong, in my opinion.

The state of Hawaii has created a public waterfront park in the area used by many residents now. No negative changes are expected with the park, and access to the ocean would not be affected.

What lawmakers have done is stop Native Hawaiians from doing what non-Hawaiians have been doing since the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

From Waikiki to Ala Moana to Kakaako to downtown Honolulu, non-Hawaiians have

profited and developed their property.

It’s a travesty that the Hawaii Legislature believed this valuable property could not be developed for the benefit of Native Hawaiians as OHA proposes The majority of the Hawaii Legislature is not Native Hawaiian, and I can’t help but think this may have influenced the decision to kill the legislation supported by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

Many Native Hawaiians supported this bill, but the Legislature had the final say on the matter.

One would think it is only fair to allow OHA to develop its land under strict conditions and close oversight, but the Hawaii Legislature failed the Native Hawaiian community, in my humble opinion.

The madness in Washington, DC, continues as Donald Trump moves forward with his priorities, ideas, and goals. Immigrants are being detained and deported without due process.

Federal workers are being fired and rehired after federal court decisions. A plan to acquire the Panama Canal is being developed by the Pentagon.

The federal Department of Education is being gutted. Federal agencies are being downsized or eliminated.

Ukraine and NATO are being left behind in favor of Russia. Gaza is being looked at by Trump as a future resort destination.

The news media and social media are having a

field day reporting about the Trump presidency.

A non-secured text thread by Trump officials about military action and war plans against Houthis stunned many when a news reporter was accidentally included in the discussion.

It was a breach of national security, and laws were violated by Trump officials.

This episode will be a stain on the Trump administration, and we can only hope that the Republican-led Congress will hold hearings to make sure this incredible, sloppy mistake never happens again.

As the Trump presidency moves forward with its agenda, peaceful protests and civil disobedience are occurring nationwide. Town hall meetings are filled with angry constituents when they are held.

Trump has ignited a fuse within the American people, and many believe our democracy is at stake as Trump pushes the limits and tests his judicial appointments.

We must all stay alert and attentive each day we awake. Read the newspapers, watch the nightly news, and speak with your friends and family.

Many have died for the freedoms we have and cherish. We cannot allow one man to dismantle the foundation of our great country. WILL ESPERO retired from the Hawaii legislature after serving 19 years in the state House of Representatives and State Senate. He is currently a novelist, poet, and supporter of the arts. Lingering Thoughts provides a glimpse of his perspective on current events and issues

APRIL 5, 2025  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  9

CANDID PERSPECTIVES

By Emil Guillermo

T

he Democrats can’t seem to get their mojo going to fight CFDT34, my moniker for “convicted felon Donald Trump, 34 counts,” the current president overseeing the wrecking of America.

Unfortunately, Hawaii’s Tulsi Gabbard was the first under oath to discuss one of the biggest blunders in national security history.

And she appeared to be a worse liar than Donald Trump.

Gabbard was asked if she was in this high-level group chat discussing the Trump administration’s secret war plans against the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen. It was all on the commercial phone app, Signal.

Of course, she was. It was reported by The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg the day before.

She couldn’t just tell the truth to the Senate Intelligence Committee.

Gabbard stumbled, denied the reality, and when she came close to the truth, said nothing discussed was classified.

Details on weapons, war targets, and timing? It was all in the chat very specifically.

Defense Sec. Pete Hegseth texted: “We are a GO for mission launch.”

And then came some remarkable detail on the chat: 1215 et: F-18s launch (1st strike package).

1345: Trigger based F-18 1st Strike Window Starts (Target Terrorist is @his Known Location so SHOULD BE ON TIME— also, Strike Drones Luanch (MQ-9s)” All of this on a social media app. If the enemy had gotten this pre-strike

Trump’s National Security Lapse— Why Signal-Gate and The War Plan Blunder Matters information, American military personnel would have been killed.

And there’s more: 1410: More F-18s LAUNCH (2nd strike package) 1415: Stirke Drones on Target (THIS IS WHEN THE FIRST BOMBS WILL DEFINITEYLY DROP, pending earlier ‘Trigger Based targets).”

1536 F-18 2nd Strike Starts—also, first sea based Tomahawks launched” MORE TO FOLLOW (per timeline) “We are currently clean on OPSEC” this is operational security.

Godspeed to our Warriors.”

This is what was on the text chain.

And Tulsi said she didn’t know about it?

Under oath, Gabbard finally had to use the liar’s multi-purpose cover. She said she couldn’t recall any of it or if it was classified information.

Occupational hazard of spies and liars. Bad memory.

And then she pointed the finger to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who she indicated may have declassified in real time all that info. Right.

And then, like all good liars, the next day before the Senate side, she doubled down.

“No classified information was shared,” she insisted before the Senate.

“There were no sources, methods, locations or war plans that were shared.”

By whose definition?

An enemy had enough to go on in any of those messages in the group chat.

And then she said the Signal app was all pre-installed in government computers.

The U.S. government

has spent billions in secure top-secret communications systems. Using Signal is like picking up a convenient candy bar instead of sitting down to a prescribed gourmet healthy food option.

Lazy.

Bottom line for the AANHPI in the loop?

When Tulsi had her close up, she blew it. She could not tell the truth.

A real leader would have admitted mistakes were made and committed to never letting it happen again.

Instead, we get another chatgroup member, CIA director John Ratcliffe, under oath saying no mistakes were made.

And we have Gabbard’s testimony.

She was underqualified to start, but now she proves she has no business being the nation’s director of intelligence.

She is right about one thing. If anyone needs to be blamed, it’s Hegseth.

This is a big deal.

Do you have a loved one in the military? If they had acted like Hegseth, Gabbard et al., they’d be fired, imprisoned, or both.

In previous administrations, there’d be calls for a special prosecutor and a full investigation.

So please don’t roll your eyes when you hear more about the Trump ad-

ministration’s group chat about secret war plans on a phone app.

I’m still mad they invited a fly in the wall and didn’t invite me.

Consider that when Donald Trump feels compelled to defend his honor, he often goes back to the 2016 Hillary Clinton email story and her use of a private email server as a breach of national security.

He did it a few weeks ago, in fact.

After this, he won’t be able to kick Hillary anymore without appearing to be an even bigger hypocrite than he is.

National security matters. It’s the basis for everything Trump is doing.

Going aggressively after innocent immigrants for deportation? National Security is his big cover, unless his cabinet is exposed to being careless and reckless over secret war plans.

Thanks To The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg So before you gladly accept Trump’s shrugging off the matter, let’s repeat.

The highest levels of the Trump administration have been caught discussing real U.S. war plans on an encrypted but not top secret consumer app called Signal.

The top-level officials in the group chat included Trump’s unqualified cabinet hires, the former Fox weekend anchor now Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and the compromised former member of Congress now head of national intelligence, Gabbard.

Also included in the chat were Vice President J.D. Vance, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA director John Ratcliffe, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff (who

was travelling in Russia), and Sr. White House Advisor Stephen Miller (the man behind Trump’s racist, anti-immigrant policies).

They were discussing detailed plans to secretly bomb Iran-connected Houthi targets across Yemen.

Hegseth told reporters in Hawaii emphatically that no “war plans” were released.

But thankfully, because of perhaps the most egregious blunder, a journalist was included in the Signal Chat.

Two hours before the bombing actually began, the war plan was sent out to that group chat. And no one noticed it included someone special.

The president? No, he was not included. And it wasn’t Vladimir Putin.

That’s a joke, but my god, his spies were probably listening.

The special person was seen under the icon “JG,” as in Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic.

A journalist was included in the discussion and got all the war plans—“precise information about weapons packages, targets and timing.” All of it delivered via text.

A media person in a top-secret meeting? A huge mistake.

This is as crazy as it gets within the first 100 days of Trump.

A news guy included?

Well, if a former weekend anchor of Fox can be secretary of defense…

Goldberg revealed the colossal error this week in the first of two breaking stories in the Atlantic. But imagine what our allies are thinking? And then there are Beijing and Moscow, where the laughter must be loud about America’s unqualified amateurs running our democracy. (continue on page 10)

10 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE APRIL 5, 2025

AS I SEE IT

Is There A Program in the Transportation Industry for the Youth?

By Elpidio R. Estioko

A

dvanced training for the youth as transportation workers is in the

pipeline!

The Transportation Communications Union (TCU) and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have contracted with the United States Department of Labor’s Job Corps to provide an Advanced Transportation Training Program for our nation’s youth.

According to field educational assistant Roslyn J. Hoover, TCU’s Training Services Department is now contracted to train 410 students nationwide at eight facilities.

Hoover said that if one

likes to travel, is interested in learning about all the different types of transportation that exist, then you may be a good fit for Job Corps’ TCU/IAM Advanced Training – Transportation Service Worker training program.

In this program, the student will become skilled in ensuring a safe work environment, Employability communication, Customer Service, Keyboarding Basics, Mathematics (Personal Finance), and Green Initiatives in Transportation.

Hoover further said that graduates of this Advanced Training area go on to work for railroads, mass transit and airline companies as: Airline and Railroad Ticket Agents; Airline Ramp Workers; Barge Deck Hands; Mass Transit Bus Drivers; Passenger and Freight Railroad Conductors; Passenger Rail

(WHAT’S UP, ATTORNEY?: Can a President ....from page 7)

the ACLU have not suffered such a distinct and palpable injury.

The Supreme Court could also decide that the case has become moot and academic because the aliens have already been deported and the President of El Salvador is not likely to allow the prisoners he has taken in his jail to be returned to the U.S. He has a contract with the U.S. The Supreme Court might agree that a presidential decision involving the Alien Enemies Act is unreviewable. That is what the Department of Justice has claimed. AT T Y. E M M A N U E L SAMONTE TIPON was a Fulbright and Smith-Mundt scholar to Yale Law School where he was awarded a Master of Laws degree specializing in Constitutional Law. He graduated with a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines. He placed third in the 1955 bar examinations.

He is admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court,

New York, and the Philippines.

He practices federal law, with emphasis on constitutional issues, immigration law, and appellate federal criminal defense. He was the Dean and a Professor of Law of the College of Law, Northwestern University, Philippines. He has written law books and legal articles for the world’s most prestigious legal publishers including Thomson West and Lawyers Co-operative Publishing Co. and writes columns for newspapers. He wrote the case notes and annotations for the entire Immigration and Nationality Act published by The Lawyers Co-operative Publishing Co. and Bancroft-Whitney Co. (now Thomson Reuters). He wrote the best-seller “Winning by Knowing Your Election Laws.”

Atty. Tipon was born in Laoag City, Philippines. Cell Phone (808) 225-2645. E-Mail: attorneytipon@gmail.com filamlaw@yahoo.com. Website: https://www.tiponimmigrationguide.com The information provided in this article is for general information only. It is not legal advice. Publication of this information is not intended to be created, and receipt by you or reading by you does not establish or constitute an attorney-client relationship.

Baggage Handlers; Rail Car Repairers; or Railroad Brake, Signal and Switch Operators to name a few.

The credentials the student will earn include the first level of Advanced Training offered in the Transportation Service Worker series.

Students who complete a Job Corps Advanced Transportation training program will earn a certification in at least one Specialty Module such as Airline Service; Inland Waterway Service; Mass Transit/Highway Service; Rail Freight Service; Rail Mechanical Service/Carman; and Rail Passenger Service Students are also eligible to attain the following credentials: OSHA 10-Hour certification; Office Skills, Clerical Skills and Software Skills (OPAC) certification; and Driver’s license (if you don’t have one yet).

To qualify for the training, a student needs a high school diploma or the equivalent (can be earned at all Job Corps centers): Complete a Job Corps basic training program; Meet academic (math and reading) requirements; At least 17½ years old; Positive

attendance and progress record; Written recommendation from Job Corps center personnel; Health clearance at current center; Strong work ethic and determination to succeed; and complete a successful phone, in-person or videoconference interview.

The TCU/IAM Union, an advanced Job Corps trade program, proudly held its award ceremony for students on February 28, 2025.

During this event, they recognized students for Perfect Attendance, Honor Roll, and Student of the Month.

Additionally, they honored those who achieved their specialty certificates in Airline Service Worker and Rail Passenger Clerk.

“We are incredibly proud of our students’ dedication and commitment to pursuing careers in the transportation industry. We look forward to our next award ceremony, where we will continue celebrating TCU/IAM students’ achievements,” Hoover said.

One of the awardees was Lorenz J. Agcaoili Vasquez He is currently partic-

ipating in a Work-Based Learning (WBL) program with Amtrak and ACE Train, where he has successfully engaged with a high number of passengers while conducting public surveys.

In addition to his fieldwork, Vasquez has excelled in his role at the TCU/IAM front desk, demonstrating exceptional customer service, attention to detail, and clear, concise communication skills. He has also taken the initiative to train new students, guiding them through their front desk responsibilities.

Another awardee, Dayshamien Johnson, joined the program in November 2024. Johnson is a kind, helpful student who has been excelling in his coursework. Other awardees include Armando Medina and Clintera Miller.

For the youth of today, the transportation industry is a worthy option for a career path! ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO was a veteran journalist in the Philippines and a multi-awarded journalist here in the US. For feedbacks, comments… please email the author at estiokoelpidio@gmail.com

(CANDID PERSPECTIVES: Trump’s National ....from page 9)

And Trump? He was asked about the story two hours after the first one broke on Monday, March 24.

“I don’t know anything about it,” is what Trump said. He wasn’t in on the group chat and didn’t know about the meeting that took place on the 15th.

Nine days after the group chat, Trump insisted he was clueless.

“I know nothing about it,” Trump said, choosing ignorance, a good look for him.

Apparently, the Trump administration’s push to

cut for government efficiency includes eliminating briefing the president on little things like the questionable bombing of the Houthis in Yemen.

An act of war? That would require Congress, and none of those guys were in on this either.

By Tuesday, March 25, Trump was insisting there was nothing there.

And started blaming the Atlantic’s Goldberg, who is a reputable journalist.

But it set up Goldberg’s second story. If Trump and his top-level cabinet members on that Signal chat insist nothing

was classified, then they should talk about it openly.

But they couldn’t or wouldn’t. Because they were caught lying.

So Goldberg did the responsible thing. He published the second story, revealing enough detail to show that our government was lying to the American public.

It’s a matter of national security.

Sensitive government information shouldn’t be discussed on Signal. Period.

It’s reckless and unacceptable. It should be a (continue on page 11)

APRIL 5, 2025  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  11

Deeds And Divorce

By Sheryll Bonilla, Esq.

I

n some divorces, one spouse buys out the other’s ownership, and the selling spouse signs over their half share to the buying spouse.

In these cases, it’s a good idea to prepare the deed so it can be signed concurrently with divorce decree.

Divorce lawyers generally don’t write deeds, so it’s not a task they think of when negotiating the final terms of the decree.

Having to pay for monthly divorce lawyer fees, the thought of paying for one more legal document just feels like something they’d rather not think about till later.

One reason for having the deed drafted so it can be signed around the same time as the decree is to minimize the opportu-

nity for a hostile spouse to drag out the misery.

Decrees may put timeframes for when the deed has to be signed, but as too many ex-spouses find out, a non-cooperative spouse can just refuse, refuse, refuse.

The innocent spouse then has to go through the expense and unhappiness of a motion for post-decree enforcement. Having the deed signed with the decree increases the likelihood that the house transfer will be accomplished.

The marital status of the grantor (the person transferring ownership) and the grantee (the person receiving ownership) has to be noted on deeds.

A name change, such as a wife resuming her maiden name, can also complicate a transfer.

On paper, “Jane Doe, wife of John Doe” is not the same person as “Jane Smith, unmarried” even

LEGAL NOTES

though she’s the same person. Jane Smith, an unmarried person, has no legal right to transfer property owned by Jane Doe, wife of John Doe. She may be the same person in real life, but on paper, they are not the same until the Land Court orders that the divorce and name change be noted on the certificate of title for that deed.

If you’re one of those people going through a divorce right now, look at the top of the first page of your deed.

Yes, you have your deed even if the mortgage isn’t paid off – the house is yours when you take out that home loan and purchase the home. You might find your deed with your mortgage papers, and if not, you can ask your lender for a copy.

If the recording stamp is on the right side at the top of the first page, then the house is recorded in

the Regular System.

The divorce between the parties and/or the changed name of a wife, can be noted in an affidavit submitted along with the deed. Simple, but still an additional expense.

If the recording stamp is on the left side at the top of the first page or has stamps in both the left and right boxes, this is more extensive.

That means the property is registered in the Land Court System. A petition to note the divorce and name change (if any) has to be filed with the Land Court.

The deed transferring the property from one ex-spouse to another

cannot be recorded until the Land Court issues an order noting the divorce and any name change of the parties.

This step adds to the cost and delay in transferring the property.

To save time, cost, and hassle, if your decree requires one spouse to transfer property to the other, consider getting the deed done so that the spouse can sign when he/ she signs the decree. The information provided in this article is for general information only. It is not legal advice. Publication of this information is not intended to be created, and receipt by you or reading by you does not establish or constitute an attorney-client relationship.

(CANDID PERSPECTIVES: Trump’s National ....from page 10)

bipartisan thing. But the Republicans continue to gaslight.

The White House Line The White House insists on the bottom line: “We killed the Houthis.

Hooray.”

But they miss the point. They should be glad a reporter was inadvertently included. The Signal chat showed an inexcusable sloppiness that could have gotten American military personnel killed.

Hegseth added again on Wednesday, March 26, that there were no war plans. Nothing was classified. But should it have been. The details are astonishing.

If China and Russia had this info, they would have learned so much about the sloppiness of the Trump administration.

Rep. Jason Crow (D.-Colo) and Raj Krish-

namurti (D-Ill) were among those calling for an investigation.

“It is completely outrageous to me that administrative officials come before us today with impunity, no acceptance of responsibility. Excuse after excuse after excuse, “ said Krishnamurti.

“We send our men and women down range to do incredibly difficult, incredibly dangerous things.

No one is willing to come to us and say, ‘this was wrong. (Or that) this was a breach of security, and we won’t do it again.’”

And then he got to the heads should roll part: “It’s outrageous and it is a leadership failure and that’s why Sec. Hegseth, who undoubtedly transmitted classified sensitive operational information via this chain must resign immediately. There can be no fixes. There can be no corrections, until there is

accountability.”

The White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced Trump’s position that this is no big deal but then asked this question: “Who would you trust? The Secretary of Defense or Jeffrey Goldberg?”

Are you kidding?

Hegseth, whose alcohol problem nearly kept him from the job, who has been accused of sexual assault, who has never held a top job qualifying him to be secretary of defense?

I’d believe the top-level journalist,

who, after inadvertently being included in a group chain, acted like a patriot, and courageously told the American public what really happened.

When a journalist is an eyewitness to the facts, the public should know

whom to trust.

Not the politicians.

Remember Watergate.

This is worse. EMIL GUILLERMO is a journalist and commentator.

His talk show is on www.amok. com.

12 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE APRIL 5, 2025

BOOK REVIEW

Dauntless

By Rose Cruz Churma

T

he Philippines commemorates Araw ng Kagitingan on April 9.

It is observed in the Philippines to commemorate the surrender of Bataan to Japanese troops during the Second World War. April 9 was the start of the Bataan Death March when the head of the American force holed-up in Bataan surrendered more than 76,000 starving and disease-ridden soldiers (according to Wikipedia – 64,000 Filipinos and 12,000 Americans) to Japanese troops.

These prisoners of war were forced to endure the infamous 140-kilometer (87 miles) Bataan Death March to Capas, Tarlac. Thousands died from dehydration and outright execution while walking in the heat.

Created over a decade ago by the Filipino Memorial Endowment (FAME), white obelisks stand as mini memorials

of the path taken during the Death March.

There are 138 Death March markers in all, from Bataan to Tarlac, with each kilometer marked by an obelisk, with 97 in the province of Bataan, 33 in Pampanga, and 8 in Tarlac, all the way to the gates of the former Camp O’Donnell, which is now the Capas National Shrine.

The Bataan Death March is known throughout the Philippines and the USA when Filipino and American soldiers showed the utmost valor in the face of surrender.

However, what is not as well known is the role of Filipino American soldiers in winning that war—until now—with the release of Marie Silva Vallejo’s DAUNTLESS. Marie Vallejo was employed in data security and internal audit at INTEL during her career days in corporate America. She briefly settled in Kaneohe, Hawai’i, after retirement but relocated to Metro Manila soon after.

Eventually, she discovered that her father, who trained as a teacher in the Philippines and arrived in the US at the height of the Depression, “began his first job picking apples in the central valley of California.”

He was one of many Filipinos who boarded

the ship S.S. Empress of Asia in May 1929 in steerage class to seek “a better life in America.”

What they found in pre-World War II America was one of “exceptional hardship, pain, and sacrifice” and a “time of intolerance and racism” for non-whites like Filipinos, their entire life in California and other states “was debased with systemic and anti-Filipino sentiment and legislation,” the author notes in the book’s preface.

She highlights this sentence: “What complicated patriotism had made my father and thousands of Filipino men in America volunteer into the Army despite decades of horrible inequities inflicted upon them? Was it even worth it?”

This sentence resonated in my mind as I began writing this review.

Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 1941. Less than 10 hours later, the Philippines, a US territory back then, was invaded by Japan and was the catalyst of the U.S. Army’s First Filipino Battalion formed from 7,000 volunteers.

The First and Second Infantry Regiments were then formed from this group, who later returned with the Liberation force.

From the regiments, secret military units consisting of highly trained Filipino men, known only to General MacArthur and a few of his immediate staff, were sent on secret, suicidal missions to the Japan-occupied country two years before MacArthur’s return to the Philippines.

When Marie Vallejo discovered that her father was part of this ultra-secretive and clandestine unit that was trained in Australia, she was determined to find out more.

However, the confidential nature of the covert missions to the islands proved to be very challenging due to large gaps in the official guerrilla records.

Fortunately, descendants of the men who were part of these missions shared their stories, which fleshed out the details of their experiences in the Philippine jungles.

She also credits a chance meeting at a conference with Alex Fabros, Jr., who did pioneering research work on the 1st and 2nd Filipino Infantry Regiments.

She would eventually write her first book, The Battle of Ising, about the regiment her father led into battle that became one of the decisive victories against the Japanese that led to the liberation of Mindanao.

Her research for that first book enabled her to lead a team and get funding from the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office to digitize the Guerrilla Recognition Program files of the Philippine Archives Collection at the National Archives in Maryland.

This digitized version enabled descendants of veterans to provide proof of their relatives’ participation in the war.

Peter Parsons, the son of Charles Parsons, who led the SPYRON missions in World War II and a Hawai’i resident, notes that this book DAUNTLESS is most readable – a page-turner book, especially if you have relatives who participated in that war.

The main chapters chronicle the activities of the Filipino American regiments in detail due in large part to the author’s persistence in interviewing the descendants of the veterans or the veterans themselves if they’re still able.

Thus, she can write about little-known details of the war, the majority of which appear for the first time in print.

The appendices are as thick as the main chapters and contain every bit of evidence she has collected–photos, lists, correspondence, and various printed sources that can be copied and annotated.

This makes this book a valuable reference tool for those researching the Filipino American contributions to World War II, and it should be in each public library system.

A book talk on DAUNTLESS was held at the Waipahu Public Library last Fall to a standing-room audience sponsored by the Filipino American Historical Society of Hawaii (FAHSOH).

Clement Bautista, president of FAHSOH, noted: (continue on page 15)

APRIL 5, 2025  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  13

FEATURE

Representative La Chica Selected to Future Caucus Innovation Fellowship

By Renelaine Bontol Pfister

R

epresentative Trish La Chica of District 37 (Mililani, Waipio Gentry, Koa Ridge) was selected for the 2025-2026 Future Caucus Innovation Fellowship, a two-year fellowship for Gen Z and millennial lawmakers.

She was selected along with Hawaii Representatives Greggor Ilagan and Kanani Souza.

Future Caucus is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that supports innovative policymaking.

For 2025, the participants select from four policy tracks: Civic Innovation, Energy & Environment, Prenatal-to-Three, and Criminal Justice.

Participants are given access to tools and experts, collaborate together, and will introduce a bipartisan piece of legislation at the

completion of the fellowship.

La Chica has served more than 15 years in policy making, public health, and community engagement.

She was appointed to the House of Representatives in February 2023 by Governor Josh Green and is currently Assistant Majority Floor Leader and Vice Chair of the House Education Committee, where she focuses on early childhood education and primary and secondary education.

La Chica graduated from Ateneo de Manila University, Philippines, and started her career as an Investigative Journalist and Field Producer on ABSCBN Broadcasting Corporation in the Philippines from 2007 to 2009.

She moved to California where she graduated

Rep. Trish La Chica

cum laude and acquired her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of San Francisco.

She then embarked on a path of public service. Her previous positions from 2014 to 2021 include being Policy and Advocacy Director at the Hawaii Public Institute, Policy Analyst at the Office of the Governor, Health Care Innovation in Hawaii, and Community Engagement Specialist with the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum in California.

Her more recent positions before being appointed to the House include Community and Government Relations Manager with the non-profit health plan AlohaCare, where she played a role in passing two pieces of legislation into law: expanding post-partum Medicaid coverage to 12 months and restoring preventive dental health benefits.

After Aloha Care, she became Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Housing, where her work included overseeing the City’s 10-year affordable housing plan and 5-year homelessness action plan.

Mililani is where La Chica is raising her two young children, Foggy and Ricki, with her husband Cricket, and where she has made many positive changes, including cleaning up the homeless camp in Kipapa Gulch, increasing wildfire safety and preparedness, and restoring school bus services.

As a lawmaker, La Chi-

ca notably led the efforts to pass the following legislation into law: Act 191, which aims to prevent the spread and use of deceptive and fraudulent deep fakes during election periods, and Act 62, which regulates e-cigarettes, thereby increasing public safety and protecting our youth.

She’s been a member of the Filipina Association of University Women since 2015 and is an awardee of the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World by Filipina Women’s Network (2015).

Rep. La Chica is also an awardee of President Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the 14th Annual TOFA (The Outstanding Filipino Awards) on Oct. 27, 2024, an honor she shares with former Hawaii Governor Benjamin Cayetano and former state senator Bennette Misalucha. It is an astonishing achievement as this signals there is yet much more she can do.

14 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE APRIL 5, 2025

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS

The American Dream… No More

By Seneca Moraleda-Puguan

M

igration is not just a topic I care about - it is my reality.

I am a migrant. Since the age of 23, I have moved across continents, from London to Singapore, then to South Korea, and now to Switzerland.

Each move carried with it the hope for new opportunities, a better life.

I left the Philippines for the same reason many others do - to seek something greater, something that my homeland, despite its beauty and warmth, could not provide.

But unlike many, I have always known I could return. But for countless others, returning is not an option.

Migration runs deep in my family. My mother left the Philippines when I was 17, moving to the United States in search of a better future.

Today, she is an American citizen. My eldest sister is Australian. My youngest brother is Canadian. Even in my Swiss neighborhood,

migration shapes the fabric of daily life.

We are surrounded by migrants and asylum seekers, each carrying their own story of displacement, hope, and struggle.

My son Yohan’s best friend is from Ethiopia.

My daughter Callie’s first friend in school was from Ukraine, and her closest classmate now is from Iraq.

One of the first friendships I formed here was with a woman from Afghanistan.

These relationships remind me that migration is not just a political issue - it is deeply personal. It affects real people, real families, and real children who, like mine, just want to belong.

Yet today, migration is under siege. In the United States, people who have lived legally for decades now live in fear.

Stories like that of a 64-year-old Filipino green card holder who has spent 50 years in the U.S. yet now finds herself detained and facing deportation shake me to my core.

These are not nameless,

faceless individuals. They are neighbors, friends, family members. They have built lives, contributed to society, and called America home, only to be told they no longer belong.

This uncertainty weighs heavily on me.

My mother, now vacationing with my sister in Perth, Australia, is scheduled to return to the U.S. in a few weeks. She holds a U.S. passport, but even that does not quiet my fears.

In the current climate, even citizenship feels fragile when you don’t fit the image of what an “American” is supposed to look like.

It pains me that after decades of calling America home, she too might feel

unwelcome in a country she has given so much to.

My heart aches for those who are left with no place to turn. Many asylum seekers are not just chasing better opportunities; they are fleeing persecution, war, and oppression.

Going back to their home countries is not just an inconvenience - it is a death sentence. Yet, the doors they once believed would offer safety and refuge are now slamming shut in their faces.

Where will they go?

Who will stand up for them?

In their home countries, there is no future. In the countries where they seek asylum, they are unwanted.

They are caught in limbo, forced to exist in a world that refuses to claim them.

Lord, have mercy. Especially on the families torn apart by policies that prioritize exclusion over compassion, that value nationalism over humanity.

The cost of these policies is not just legal - it is deeply human. It is the child separated from their parents at a border.

It is the family forced to say goodbye without knowing if they will ever reunite.

It is the asylum seeker forced back into the arms of danger because no one will take them in.

I used to believe America was blessed because of its generosity, because of its openness to those seeking a better life.

It was a place where people could be free, where they could belong. That was the America my mother dreamed of when she left the Philippines decades ago.

That was the America she built a life in.

But today, as the country turns inward, placing its own interests above all else, I can’t help but wonder what will come of this shift.

A nation that was once a beacon of hope is now dimming its own light.

For my mother, who once looked to America as a land of endless possibility, the American Dream is fading.

And for so many who still believe in that dream, I fear it may soon be gone altogether.

HAWAII WORKERS COLUMN

Paid Family Leave Fails Again in Hawaii

By Ray Catania

T

he Hawaii 2025 Legislature has once again rejected a paid family leave bill—this time, HB775.

What Is the Paid Family Leave Bill?

According to a brochure from Paid Family Leave Hawaii, an initiative supported by the Hawaii Children’s Action Network (HCAN) and the Working Families Coalition, paid family leave allows workers to take time off while still receiving part of their income.

This benefit applies when caring for a loved one, addressing their own serious health needs, or bonding with a new child.

On February 22, over

150 supporters—mostly young women who work with economically at-risk women and children—rallied at the State Capitol in support of HB775.

This fight has persisted for over 20 years, with the Legislature largely ignoring the concerns of many women and key advocates like legislators Jeanné Kapela and Kim Coco Iwamoto.

Despite solid research conducted by HCAN and its leader, Nicole Woo, most Hawaii legislators have continued to dismiss the need for paid family leave. Elected Democrats must do more.

Currently, only a quarter of Hawaii’s workforce has access to some form of family leave, mostly through union contracts. However,

only 21% of Hawaii’s workers are covered by union contracts, many of them government employees.

The United States remains the only developed country without a national paid leave program. To date, only 13 states and the District of Columbia have enacted such laws.

A Personal Perspective

When my wife gave birth in 1991 and 1993, her employer did not provide any family leave.

Fortunately, as a State of Hawaii employee covered by a strong union contract, I was able to use my accumulated leave to stay home and support my wife, receiving full pay for over a month per child. This protection came

through my United Public Workers (UPW) contract.

Most of Hawaii’s public sector unions—such as the Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA)—and some private-sector unions offer some form of paid family leave.

However, both the United Public Workers (UPW) and the Hawaii Government Employees Association (HGEA) do not support a statewide paid family leave program. They argue that private employers should fully fund it, with no payroll deductions from workers.

The reality, however, is that most private employers will not fund it, nor will the Hawaii government—especially amid economic uncertainty, exacerbated by federal funding cuts.

A Path Forward HB775 proposed that the State Department of Labor administer the program and determine eligibility, with funding coming from small payroll deductions – potentially as little as $4 per month from employees.

If neither the government nor most private businesses are willing to contribute funds, that should not prevent Hawaii’s workers from caring for their families—especially the most vulnerable.

Many of us have family members who need financial support, and it is our responsibility to help them.

Instead of resisting change, government officials and employers should demonstrate their commitment to families by supporting paid medical leave. RAY CATANIA is a Hawaii Workers Center board member.

APRIL 5, 2025  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  15

COMMUNITY CALENDAR SPRING 2025 CULTURAL PROGRAM | Filipino Community Center | Various schedule until April 30, 2025 | FilCom Center, Consuelo Courtyard, 94-428 Mokuola Street, Waipahu | Join this comprehensive program this spring for an enriching journey through Filipino culture. The program fee is $25. To register, visit https:// filcom.org/communityprograms.

HAWAII TRIENNIAL 2025 | ALOHA NO | Hawaii Contemporary | February 15 to May 4, 2025 | Various locations across the state | Hawaii Triennial 2025 is the state’s largest, thematic exhibition of contemporary art from Hawaii, the Pacific, and beyond. For over 78 days, HT25 features 49 artists and art collectives with site exhibitions on Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island. For more information, visit hawaiicontemporary.org.

CAREGIVERS APPRECIATION DAY | Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii Workers Center, National Alliance for Filipino Concerns | Susannah Wesley Community Center, 1117 Kaili Street, Honolulu | April 13, starts at 4pm | This event is for all caregivers out there. Thank you for your dedication, compassion, and hardwork in promoting the wellbeing of others. For more information, contact mailto:hiworkerscenter@gmail.com.

BIBLE REFLECTIONS

A Journey of Faith and Healing

By Anikka Kenzie Santos

A

Painful Beginning In December 2018, I started feeling pain in my leg. At first, my mother thought it was just a cramp and told me not to worry. But the pain didn’t go away.

It only got worse. Concerned, my mother took me to the hospital to find out what was wrong.

In January 2019, after multiple tests and scans, the doctor delivered news that changed my life—I had bone cancer. I was only nine years old. I couldn’t believe it. How could this happen to me?

I wondered when I would ever get better.

From that moment on, my life revolved around hospital visits, medical procedures, and constant pain. I spent most of my time in the hospital, with needles piercing my body and enduring experiences I never imagined I would face. \ I often asked myself, “Will I ever be able to go to school again? Will I ever have a normal life?”

A Difficult Road To fight the cancer, my doctors recommended chemotherapy. It was an incredibly painful treatment with severe side effects.

After my first chemo session, I had a seizure.

My mother later told me that they almost lost me that day. But by God’s grace, a doctor was nearby to help me.

Chemotherapy took a toll on my body. I lost my hair and a lot of weight.

I was devastated, afraid that people would laugh at me or stare. But my mother reassured me, saying, “Your hair will grow back.”

One day, someone introduced me to Jesus Christ. That moment changed everything. I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior, and from then on, I began to see things differently.

The Hardest Decision Then came news that shook me once again. My doctor told me that my leg needed to be amputated. I was terrified. How would I ever walk or run again?

At first, I refused. But as time passed, the pain became unbearable. I realized I couldn’t take it anymore, so I agreed to the surgery.

Before the operation, I had to undergo an MRI to check the tumor’s progress.

The results were devastating—the tumor had grown bigger. The surgery had to be delayed, and I had to go through another round of chemotherapy.

Finally, in September 2019, the big day arrived.

I had to say a final goodbye to my leg.

When I woke up, I felt pain, but I told myself, It’s okay. I was so happy to be free from the unbearable pain.

Though I sometimes wished I still had both legs, I knew God had a purpose for everything.

More than physical healing, He had changed my heart and transformed my entire family.

Growing in Faith Through this journey, my family and I came to know Christ. We became Christians together.

Looking back, I realized this was all part of God’s plan—not just for me but for my entire family.

Becoming part of Christ’s Commission Fellowship (CCF) Crossroad and joining a small group helped me understand more about God. Before I became a Christian, we would go

in and out of church without really knowing Him. But now, I am excited to learn and grow in my faith. My discipleship group (DGroup) leaders have been instrumental in helping me know God on a deeper level.

Because of CCF Crossroad, I have built a personal relationship with Christ. It has also taught me how to deal with others and handle difficult situations, like forgiving people who hurt me. I remember a time in school when a classmate offended me. I felt angry, but I chose to forgive, as God commands us to do.

I also face temptations like everyone else, but my mother reminds me of Romans 12:2 - Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will.

Whenever I feel afraid, I hold on to Isaiah

41:10 - So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Looking Ahead with Hope Now, at 14 years old, I am excited for what God has in store for me. As I prepare to join CCF Elevate, I am eager to discover His plans for my life.

In the meantime, I serve as a volunteer for the Host Team in CCF Baliwag, and my parents have opened our home for fellowship gatherings.

I believe with all my heart that I am healed—by His blood and His grace.

To God be the glory! ANNIKA KENZIE SANTOS, once hopeless but now filled with hope in Christ Jesus. Together with her parents, Warren Lynne and Mark Allan Santos, and siblings Andrew Kurt and Anson Kyle they attend Christ Commission Fellowship (CCF) in Baliwag, Bulacan).

(BOOK REVIEW: Dauntless ....from page 12)

“Marie Silva Vallejo has collected a wealth of documentary and archival information on the 1st and 2nd Filipino Infantry Regiments and assembled it into multiple narratives that allow a reader to experience events as they unfolded on each island. In DAUNTLESS, Vallejo lays out in minute detail how Filipino Americans were essential in the liberation of the Philippines.”

At this book talk, the author also gave credit to Domingo Los Banos,

a strong advocate for World War II veterans, for sharing the archives he collected on the Filipino American regiment from Hawai’i, some of which are used in the book.

The author notes that “it had to take a war to slowly break the ignorance, to make them ‘equal’ and enable their own triumphs to emerge.

What they underwent begat better opportunities for Filipinos of America.”

In these times when a

lot of the gains made by these men are being overturned and revamped, when policies for diversity, equity, and inclusion are being thrown out of the window…yes, it is important for their stories to be told. ROSE CRUZ CHURMA established Kalamansi Books & Things three decades ago. It has evolved from a mail-order bookstore into an online advocacy with the intent of helping global Pinoys discover their heritage by promoting books of value from the Philippines and those written by Filipinos in the Diaspora. We can be reached at kalamansibooks@gmail.com.

16 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  APRIL 5, 2025