tive in Our Filipino Civic Clubs, Social and Professional Organizations
Gen Z, those born from 1997-2012 (28-13 years old), face immense challenges. They encounter financial barriers to attain higher education due to increasingly high tuition. For those who graduate from a four-year college are saddled with exorbitant student debt, often well over $100,000 (for graduate and professional education, much higher into the $250,000 range). Upon graduation, job prospects are uncertain as they face a competitive and unstable labor market. Economic security for Gen Zers, whether they receive a college degree or not, is also unstable as they must contend with the possibility of AI-robotics and automation rendering their jobs obsolete.
The stress and pressures of student debt, job and economic insecurity are known to affect Gen Zer’s mental health. Harmony Healthcare IT did an extensive study of 1,055 Gen Z adults and found the following: 85% are worried about the future in general (citing personal finances, the economy, the environment, etc), 90% believe their generation is not set up for success, 75% feel they are at a disadvantage in comparison to previous generations, 20% have a regular therapist, 57% take regular medication, 39% attend therapy for mental health issues once a week. More than two in five of the country’s 68 million Gen Zers have a clinically diagnosed mental health condition. Nine in 10 Gen Z adults diagnosed with mental health issues say they struggle specifically with anxiety. Moreover, eight in 10 say they fight against frequent bouts of depression.
All of these challenges and uncertainties affect their plans for starting a family and getting married that’s often delayed or abandoned altogether. The inability to purchase a home – traditionally seen as necessary to providing for a family – further discourages Gen Zers to take on the responsibility of building a family life.
In many ways, Baby Boomers and Gen X, failed as a society to provide for a more stable and healthier environment for our Gen Z children. Even in healthcare, Gen Z faces higher rising costs and limited access to health care services than our generation did in their age. Many companies on the mainland do not offer health insurance to their full-time employees.
To make matters worse, instead of owning some part in making life difficult for our Gen Z children, the older generation places the onus entirely on Gen Zers, calling them lazy, weak, unfocused, similar to how our own parents labeled us to muster motivation. But there is a difference between when Gen X -- when we were Gen Z’s age in our twenties -- and the conditions of Gen Z, today. We cannot deny the steeper uphill battle Gen Z must climb.
Gen Z are fighters
The future is not all glum for Gen Z. They are fighting back. Gen Zers are active in civic engagement, politically and socially conscious. They’re a generation of activists and are harnessing powerful communication tools to sound off, network, lobby, and consolidate their power.
Gen Zers are fearless to take on the establishment and criticize “systems” that have made their life far more
APublisher & Executive Editor
n essential goal for community-building is the pollination of future leaders. With this in mind, this issue our cover story focuses on our Gen Z (those born from 1997-2012, 28-13 years old), their challenges, values, and hopes. HFC associate editor Edwin Quinabo reports on some of the more well-known facts about Gen Z like their progressive political inclinations, as well as some areas most will be surprised to hear such as their embrace of religion, making this group the second largest church attendees, only behind the 65+ demographics. Filipino Gen Z share their own thoughts on their generation, some myths about them, their strengths and what makes them unique compared to previous generations. They also gauge what the Filipino community could be like in the future when they’re of age to lead it.
I’m certain almost all of you have heard that Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. We have a special news feature on the passing of the former leader of the Roman Catholic Church. President Donald Trump and Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos attended the pope’s funeral. Marcos described Francis as “the best pope in my lifetime.” Many Catholics and non-Catholics share similar sentiments. Members in our Hawaii community share their thoughts about Pope Francis’ death and what he meant to them personally. We join our community here and the rest of the world in paying tribute to Francis and celebrating his life and legacy. Rest with God, Pope Francis. Thank you for being a bright light for the Church and world in these troubling times.
HFC columnist Emil Guillermo follows up this feature with his article “Would Pope Francis Forgive Trump.” On the poor and homeless (two of Francis’ central focuses), HFC columnist Arcelita Imasa, MD, contributes “Why We Care for the Low-Wage Workers” and HFC columnist Elpidio Estioko submits “Will the Latest Homelessness Bills in the Mainland Resonate in Hawaii?” In California there are two bill proposals to combat homelessness: 1) requires that counties with populations over 200,000 fund 50% of their cities’ homeless shelter operating costs; and 2) requires that when local jurisdictions apply to the state for funds for homelessness programs that they present a real, data-driven plan for getting everyone off of their streets.
Also, in this issue, we have a feature “Philippine Studies at UH Marks its Golden Anniversary” written by Dr. Federico V. Magdalena, Assistant Director of the Center for Philippine Studies at UH and Dr. Belinda A. Aquino, its founder. Congratulations to the Center and all who’ve contributed to its success. Lastly, to all our mothers, have a blessed, loving and memorable time celebrating Mother’s Day.
Thank you for supporting the HFC. Reminder: HFC is free online. Visit thefilipinochronicle.com. For your advertising needs, contact us at: filipinochronicle@gmail.com. Until the next issue, Aloha and Mabuhay!
difficult than previous generations. For example, identifying that the root cause for their exorbitant education and out-of-reach cost for a home that’s forced many to move back as adults to live with their parents – that root cause is unbridled capitalism, the brute force of profits over everything, including ma-
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Charlie Y. Sonido, M.D.
Publisher & Managing Editor
Chona A. Montesines-Sonido
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Rose Cruz Churma
Elpidio R. Estioko
Willie Espero
Emil Guillermo
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Arcelita Imasa, M.D.
Seneca Moraleda-Puguan
J.P. Orias
Charlie Sonido, M.D.
Emmanuel S. Tipon, Esq.
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Caroline Julian
Max Levin
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tion and canceled dreams -young adults, theologians and church leaders “attribute the increase [in church attendance among Gen Z] is in part to the need for people to believe in something beyond themselves after three years of loss [from the pandemic].”
Open to diversity, outlook on gender and marriage
Not only has Gen Z grown up in the most diverse setting than in previous generations – they’ve seen the first Black U.S. president Barack Obama get elected and grew up with classmates of LGBTQ+ parents – nearly 50% of Gen Zers are racial and ethnic minorities.
Gen Z’s openness to diversity includes eschewing gender norms far more than previous generations which has been a bane to conservatives specifically in the area of transgenderism. While Millennials had mostly abandoned discrimination or vestiges of anti-gay sentiments, Gen Z goes further. Half of Generation Z individuals believe that forms and profiles should include sex or gender options beyond “male” and “female.”
Another concern to older generations, again mostly
Filipino Gen Z, Filipino values
Ann Danelle Lucero, 27, Tustin, California, was born and raised in California but is from a family deeply connected to their roots in the Philippine where her parents are from. She was educated in the U.S. but made a decision to pursue medicine in the Philippines, which she says was both a “professional and cultural homecoming.”
Asked which Filipino values she wants to maintain and pass on, she said “pakikisama”— the idea of getting along with others and prioritizing harmony in relationships – is important
COVER STORY
among conservatives, is Gen Z’s trend on marriage. Surveys show not only are Gen Z getting married much later and having fewer or no children, but many are also even foregoing marriage. Thrivingcenterofpsych.com found 85% of Gen Z do not feel marriage is necessary to have a fulfilled and committed relationship. More than 1 in 6 (17%) are not planning to get married. One major reason is cost.
Marvin (last name withheld by request), Waipahu, 63, said, “I’m all for diversity and mixed marriages. It’s nothing new for Hawaii. What I’m seeing as troublesome among the Gen Z is they are not getting married but living with their boyfriend and girlfriend. In the Bible, there is a terminology for that. We know what it is. In our days we also lived in with our boyfriend and girlfriend in our early twenties, but it was only temporary, and we got married. But many in the younger generation don’t plan on it.
“I may have traditional views but try to remain open-minded because similar situations regarding marriage are occurring within the younger generation in my own family. What’s not happening in my family but really shocking is some young people today wanting to choose their
to her. “This aligns with the value of being family-oriented and family-centeredness, meaning the respect for elders, and the deep sense of responsibility we carry for one another. My family is of huge priority in my life and takes precedence as it is also my biggest support system, and I know nothing can break that bond.
“I also deeply admire the Filipino work ethic— grit, perseverance, and the ability to smile through hardship. Growing up with these values have shaped me both personally and professionally, especially during my journey through
“What’s unique about Gen Z generation is we emphasize being true to oneself and remaining authentic in everything we do. We’re not afraid to question norms, challenge outdated systems, and call out injustice—even within our own communities. This generation has also become more open about mental health, gender identity, and the breaking of generational trauma, which was previously taboo in previous generations. I think what’s truly unique about this generation is how we’re using technology and creativity to reclaim our identities and tell our stories, especially as diasporic Filipinos. While keeping our old cultural roots and traditions, we are able to adjust and adapt to new cultures and express ourselves wholeheartedly.”
– Ann Danelle Lucero Gen Zer, Tustin, California
own sex different from what they were born as. This is too extreme,” Marvin said. Gen Z is unique showing signs of progressive politics, but also conservative religious values. Their outlook on family and marriage that leaves older generations puzzled could be reflective of today’s unaffordability like a home to raise a family and employment instability, discouraging Gen Zers not to have families. That, compounded with a need to meet higher educational credentials that keep students in school far longer into their late twenties to early thirties, could be responsible for their values and expectations on marriage and family that’s different from previous generations, experts say.
medical school, where compassion and community meant everything. Not only this but seeing this value in those around me especially in the Philippines, patients smiling and with positive attitudes despite the hardships and disparities,” Lucero said.
One traditional Filipino value she said needs re-evaluation is “hiya” (shame). This idea creates more of a close-minded idea in the community and can sometimes discourage open conversations about mental health or personal boundaries, which are prominent issues in our world today. While humil-
ity is beautiful, it shouldn’t come at the cost of selfworth or speaking up for ourselves,” Lucero said.
Filipino Gen Z concerns
Liddy Aldrin, 24, electrical engineer, San Diego, California is half Filipino and half white, whose mother is from Manoa, Hawaii. “The superficial concern I have is my generation is grossly misunderstood. They think of us as snowflakes that we need to be coddled and that we spend all our waking hours on social media and glued to our phone. That may be true for some. But it isn’t the case for me and for
many of my friends. Gen Zers are busy and must move in a fast-paced environment to get ahead. As for the bigger concerns my generation has – we are afraid of job obsolescence, that many careers will be replaced to AI. It’s something we all fear and think about. We also think massive income inequality which keeps getting worse at some point will lead to deep social friction, more than what already exists, to a point of cutting toxicity.” Lucero had similar concerns, “This generation appears to be having a variety of concerns that differ
NEWS FEATURE
Celebrating Pope Francis
By HFC Staff
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, sadly passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, at age 88.
The Vatican camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced “with deep sorrow” that the pope died at 7:35am local time. The Vatican said the pope died following a stroke and irreversible heart failure.
Earlier this year, Pope Francis was hospitalized due to a severe health crisis but recovered a few weeks later. During Holy Week the pope was seen in public multiple times, with an appearance at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome for Easter Sunday, April 20, despite his poor health.
Shocked and grieving by the sudden news of the Pope’s passing, communities around the world honor Francis’ 12-year legacy as the Pope.
“Pope Francis was a beacon of compassion, humility, and service,” said Hawaii Governor Josh Green. “His unwavering commitment to the marginalized and his call for global solidarity have left an indelible mark on the world. Hawai‘i joins the global community in mourning his passing and honoring his profound legacy.”
President Donald Trump posted a message on social media platform Truth Social: “Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!”
Philippine President Bongbong Marcos described Francis as “the best
pope in my lifetime.”
“A man of profound faith and humility, Pope Francis led not only with wisdom but with a heart open to all, especially the poor and the forgotten. By example, Pope Francis taught us that to be a good Christian is to extend kindness and care to one another. His humility brought many back to the fold of the Church,” said Marcos in a Facebook post.
Filipinos in Hawaii share their deepest condolences on the passing of Pope Francis. To Filipinos, Francis is affectionately known as “Lolo Kiko.” Lolo means Grandpa while Kiko is a Filipino nickname for Francis.
For Teresita Bernales, Kailua, Lolo Kiko’s love and solidarity with Filipinos were evident.
“Lolo Kiko showed profound love and solidarity with Filipinos, notably during his 2015 visit when he comforted survivors of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) and urged the nation to reject social structures that perpetuate poverty, ignorance, and corruption. His genuine presence in the Philippines, braving rain during Mass and meeting with the poor and marginalized, left an indelible mark of hope and compassion,” she told Hawaii Filipino Chronicle.
“Pope Francis’ dedication to the Filipino people and his call for mercy and justice continue to inspire millions. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy of love and service live on in the hearts of Filipinos and the world.”
Raymund Liongson, Ewa Beach, shared
that the pope is a symbol of what a Christian life should be.
“Pope Francis had demonstrated what a Christian life is -- a life of humility, of compassion. and of kindness. He embraced the virtues of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Time and again, he preached love for the marginalized, the poor, and the immigrants. He reached out to the exploited and oppressed and became a voice for justice. He lived a life cloaked by the spirituality of truth rather than the glitter of wealth. He was an example of a Christian who lived what he preached. He was a paragon of a good and decent man who showed that the papacy is not a position of material entitlement but an imposition of a great responsibility,” Liongson said.
For Dory Villafuerte, Makakilo, the pope truly embodied Saint Francis of Assisi.
“It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Pope Francis. He will be remembered as a man of compassion, down-to-earth, and cares for the downtrodden. He embodied the teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi as his namesake for his dedication to the poor, openness to interreligious dialogue, and peace,” she said.
California resident Socorro Maniquis said Pope Francis was his favorite.
“Pope Francis is my favorite pope. For one thing, he is a chemist like me. I like that he is humble and inclusive. He wants us to think of the poor, the immigrants,
and the people marginalized in society. May he rest in peace,” said Maniquis.
From Father Jorge to Pope Francis
Bergoglio was born and raised in Argentina by Italian immigrant parents. He was the first pope from the Americas and the Western Hemisphere. He is also the first Jesuit pope.
As a young man, Bergoglio used to be a bouncer and a janitor. He then graduated with a degree in chemical technician’s diploma and spent years working in the Hickethier-Bachmann Laboratory.
In 1960s, he officially became a Jesuit and obtained a licentiate in philosophy. Bergoglio taught literature and psychology at a high school and college level in Argentina.
During his priesthood journey, Bergoglio championed theological studies and spent several years studying at several institutes in Buenos Aires, Ireland, and Germany.
He became a bishop in 1992, then an archbishop in 1997. Pope John Paul II made Bergoglio a cardinal in 2001. When he became pope in 2013, Bergoglio chose the papal name Fran-
cis in honour of St. Francis of Assisi, who cares for the wellbeing of the poor.
During his papacy, Pope Francis called for the world to address global warming, poverty reduction, refugee-migrant and women’s rights. He was critical of the increasing global income inequality and warned about consumerism.
Under his leadership, Pope Francis addressed multiple issues in the Church that champion inclusivity and justice. He held a summit to address clerical sexual abuse. He opened the Catholic discussion body to involve lay members and women. He called for the Church to pay greater attention to the plight of the poor and environmental degradation.
He has repeatedly called for peace between Israel and Palestine, Russia and Ukraine, and other war-torn nations in the world.
Two days before his death, Pope Francis made his final call to Father Gabriel Romanelli, the paster of Holy Family Church in Gaza. For over 19 months, the pope was in contact with Romanelli to check up on Gaza.
Pope Francis
By Elpidio R. Estioko
The homelessness crisis has been a problem nationwide, not only in the mainland but also in Hawaii, and is becoming a perennial problem that needs to be addressed seriously.
States have launched their programs, and somehow, the problem is still a concern for all to consider. Some say they are gaining headway, and others observe that their moves are on a standstill, needing practical and pragmatic solutions to move them.
In California, lawmakers are very much concerned with the problem, so two of the state senators thought of filing their own version of their bills to address the major problem besetting the state today.
State Senator Catherine Blakespear’s bill (SB 16) proposes that:
“When cities do the right thing and build new shelter and interim housing to address our homelessness crisis, the counties
Will the Latest Homelessness Bills in the Mainland Resonate in Hawaii?
in which they are located should step up and contribute. If passed, it would require that counties with populations over 200,000 fund 50% of their cities’ homeless shelter operating costs. This seems only fair given that counties have both the legal jurisdiction and funding for health and human services for our most vulnerable residents, and much larger budgets than cities.”
Apparently, what Senator Blakespear is saying is that residents have the responsibility to contribute in addressing the problem and working for a solution. They need to do their part and make sure they make their surroundings clean and safe.
On the other hand, Senator Josh Becker’s bill (SB 606) “would require that when local jurisdictions apply to the state for funds for homelessness programs that they present a real, data-driven plan for getting everyone off of their streets. When cities and counties are required to do the math, and grapple with the true scale of the crisis as well as the true cost of many solutions, they will be more
registration will be guilty of a misdemeanor and will upon conviction for each offense be fined not to exceed $5,000 or be imprisoned not more than 30 days, or both.
Each alien required to be registered under the alien registration requirements of the INA who is within the United States must notify USCIS in writing of each change of address and new address within 10 days from the date of such change and provide such additional information as the Secretary of Homeland Security may require by regulation.
Noncompliance is a
accountable for prioritizing fast and scalable solutions over ideologically convenient ones.”
Being confronted with the homelessness issue here in San Jose, Mayor Matt Mahan went up to Sacramento and stood beside California State Senators Catherine Blakespear and Josh Becker to support their bills – SB 16 and SB 606, respectively – that would help ensure every jurisdiction does its part to end the state’s era of encampments.
Mayor Mahan’s team has been proud to work with these two Senators to promote common sense in Sacramento in addressing the problem.
He stated: “This year, the city is opening an additional 1,000 safe, dignified shelter and interim housing placements to help people move out of encampments, but we’ve just about reached our limits
misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or both.
In addition, any alien who has failed to comply with the change-of-address notification requirements is deportable unless the alien establishes that such failure was reasonably excusable or was not willful.
Judge dismisses legal challenge to registration
Judge Trevor Neil McFadden on April 10, 2025 dismissed a legal challenge to the requirement that everyone in the U.S. illegally must register
with the USCIS, holding that the plaintiffs did not have standing to sue.
CORRECTION:
Emmanuel Tipon’s article “Can A President Refuse to Obey a Supreme Court Decision” which appeared in the April 5 issue of the HFC incorrectly stated that Ex parte Merryman was a decision of the U.S. Supreme Court, but it was a “chambers” decision by the Chief Justice Roger B. Taney acting alone under authority by the Judiciary Act of 1789.
A TTY. EMMANUEL
SAMONTE TIPON was a Fulbright and Smith-Mundt
fiscally. While we feel an immense urgency to offer alternatives to the streets and disband encampments, we cannot go it alone if we want to build out a shelter and interim housing system that can end the era of encampments. We need neighboring cities to also invest in pragmatic solutions for getting everyone indoors, and we need our County to prioritize funding for the services homeless residents need to turn their lives around.”
Cities must say yes to new housing, especially where it makes sense near transit and other infrastructure.
The State must commit to not only holding each and every city and county accountable for doing their fair share, but it must commit ongoing funding for the solutions that show measurable results.
And when shelter, treatment, and other services
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 presti-
are available, we must hold our homeless neighbors accountable for coming indoors and accepting help. By working together and holding everyone accountable for doing their part, we can end this crisis. These are measures that will surely add to the steps already taken by local leaders in addressing their own problem of homelessness in their respective areas.
If the residents can cooperate and work with the legislators and with local leaders, I hope we will be able to address the issue and end the homelessness crisis.
But it needs everyone to jump in and do their part. It should be an “All For One, And One For All!” program with the residents and recipients joining the administrators and lawmakers in solving the problem!
Let’s hop in and join the movement to end encampments, homelessness once and for all!
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
gious 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 create, and receipt by you or reading by you does not establish or constitute an attorney-client relationship.
Five Books That Teach History, Cultural Values Through Children’s Literature
By
The series depicts the lives of children through five crucial eras of Philippine history and provides glimpses of the country’s significant events that impacted its culture. An engaging way to teach Philippine history to pre-schoolers, the storyline of each book is presented from the point of view of a young child.
The books are written by Augie Rivera with different illustrators and graphic artists for each book. Presented in both Tagalog and English, the book series were published by Adarna House and UNICEF.
Diwayen (pre-Hispanic times)
During the pre-hispanic times when the Philippines consisted of independent kingdoms, the prologue of this book explains that the Tagalog and Bisaya societies had slaves called alipin or olipon—the lowest level in the social rankings.
There were two types of slaves. There were those who were allowed to build their own homes and marry, while there were those who lived with their owners and could be sold.
Our protagonist in this story is a young girl named Diwayen.
Diwayen was pawned
by her parents due to a famine in their village. Locusts had destroyed the harvest, and most families had to sell their children in exchange for money and to pay for their living expenses. Diwayen ended up being a slave to a datu She helped with household chores and served as a playmate to the datu’s daughter. Eventually, due to her bravery in saving the princess from harm, the datu granted her freedom, and she was able to rejoin her family.
Illustrated by Paolo Lim, the illustrations are in transparent watercolor in hues of green and brown that beautifully capture the silhouettes of what the indigenous villages and their interior spaces may have looked like during those days.
Segunda, (Spanish Colonial era)
The Philippines was colonized by Spain for three hundred years. During the Spanish regime, there was no formal system of education. The closest that instruc-
tions given were in the form of catechisms, usually done by the parish priests, but eventually expanded to maestros.
In teaching the catechism, a katon is used. This is a small book that contains the alphabet and prayers of the Catholic Church. Usually, only the male children of well-todo families are included in the instructions.
In this book, Segunda, the daughter of a rich family’s laundry woman, learns to read, write, and count.
Her unlikely teacher is the rich family’s son, Felipe, who teaches her reading, writing, and arithmetic, transmitting to his curious pupil what his maestro has taught him.
In return, Segunda teaches Felipe how to climb any mango tree and how to spin a top well.
The graphic artist for this book is Isabel “Pepper” Roxas. The illustrations are “cartoonish” in style, where the characters have disproportionally large heads. The clothing reflects the style of that era, and despite the simple line drawings that were adopted for this book, one can glimpse the typical wardrobe of those times.
Juanito (American era)
During the American colonial period, the
sugar planters of Hawai’i, which was then an American territory, needed workers to work in their plantations. Filipinos were recruited by the promise of bettering their economic status.
In the book’s preface, it is noted that in 1923, 787 children arrived in Hawai’i to work in the plantations. The children experienced abuse from the long working hours, which deprived them of the time for learning and play, necessary activities for their health.
Juanito, our protagonist in this book, was the son of a duma’an or a permanent hacienda worker in Negros Island in the Philippines. Juanito was 12 years old when he left the Philippines for Hawai’i in 1923.
Upon reaching Hawai’i, the new recruits were brought to Waimea, where they met other workers from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries. Due to the harsh conditions in the plantations, Juanito’s father went back home after his three-year contract was done, but Juanito, now renamed Johnny, opted to stay and learned new skills.
The book’s graphics were done by Jose Miguel Tejido. Unfortunately, he chose to use clay figurines to support the storyline.
But the clay figurines
are so ugly they distract readers from appreciating the book—a real disservice to the stories of the sakada—the Filipino plantation workers of Hawai‘i.
Pitong (Japanese Occupation)
Soon after Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese on December 7, 1941, the bombing of several cities in the Philippines took place such as Baguio and Davao. By December 26, Manila was declared an “open city” to prevent its destruction.
Pitong and his family evacuated to what they believed would be a safer place when news of the arrival of Japanese forces reached the countryside.
This book describes how the children coped with the ongoing war, from scavenging for food due to its scarcity and the innovative ways the family had to survive despite the brutality of the conquerors and the uncertainties of the times.
The illustrator Marcus Nada used whimsical sketches to depict wartime Philippines. Despite the serious content of the storyline, there is humor in the illustrations, such as when the family had to join the pigs in the truck bed when they evacuated to a safer place, with Tatay,
Rose Cruz Churma
By Emil Guillermo
It was the Holy Week surprise. We expected Good Friday and the Resurrection on Sunday. But Oh My God Monday was not in the cards.
We mourn the passing of diversity’s pope, Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the son of Italian immigrants to Argentina.
Who says diversity and identity politics are dead? Francis was the first pope from Latin America in nearly 1,300 years.
That still matters.
And his leaving has me wondering if the diversity streak will extend post-Francis, to Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines.
He has the charm and the charisma, and was even called the “Asian Francis.”
The first Asian Filipino pope? Ay-sus…
In time, we shall consider the conclave. For now, let’s consider what Francis has really meant to the church.
My Pope?
Francis, the inclusive pope, the people’s pope, will always be my pope. But I’m still not sure if the Catholic Church is my church.
I see him as the forgiving pope.
I’d like to think he would forgive me for my doubts. For I must confess, I am a bad Catholic. But a principled bad Catholic.
I don’t like how the church is run.
In the last 20 years, more than $5 billion was spent on the allegations of sexual abuse of minors, according to a January 2025 report released by the Center for the Applied
Would Pope Francis Forgive Trump and Vance? Would He Forgive Me?
Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown.
These are just the cases in the US and it only goes back to around 2000. It doesn’t include the earlier days of scandals in Boston or the Mahony scandals in California.
The January report covers just a fraction of the problem.
I was never violated by a priest, but any violation – and there were more than 16,000 cases deemed credible by the report in the US alone during this period – is a violation toward all 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
Francis tried to make changes. He shut down the Peruvian-based Sodalititium Christianae Vitae because of a culture of sexual and psychological abuse of its members. In the US, he defrocked and laicized the convicted Cardinal Theodore McCarrick.
But no matter what Francis did, any reforms to undo the sins of the Catholic pedophiles and abusers were never enough. And nothing he did ended the culture of abuse completely.
On other fronts, Francis did seek greater acceptance for LGBTQ Catholics, authorizing blessings for same-sex couples, and allowing transgender people to be baptized and become godparents. But once again, did Francis go far enough?
Francis urged that women have a greater role in the church, but stopped well short of the priesthood.
Too bad. Parishes with female administrators have been among the best church communities I have been a part of. At least one woman I know left the church and is now a practicing Episcopal minister, a holy mother.
I suppose in such a strict church culture bound by tradition, little moves are much bigger than they appear.
But it never seemed to be significant enough, at least to solve the church’s problems. And never enough to convince me the church had a monopoly on spirituality. There are ways to be spiritual absent the dogma of Catholicism.
Yet, as I fail to reconcile the ways of the church and my own faith, I know how deeply Catholicism is rooted in my Filipino-ness. And I know that the Holy Father, if I were fortunate to be in his presence, would have seen and heard me.
And maybe allowed for my confession. If that happened, I may have rejoined the flock.
The Vice President meets The Pontiff
I doubt JD Vance, as the last US political leader to pay the pope a visit, asked for a confession.
Carrying water for Donald Trump, I think would require more than a confession.
Besides, I don’t know if a single human like that could say enough Our Fathers and Hail Marys in a lifetime.
Vance, who converted to Catholicism, did receive a tie and some Easter candies from the Pope during their Holy Week meeting, according to reports.
But if Vance wanted to earn his Catholic stripes
but inauthentic. Like it was written by AI. Later, Trump sounded even more robotic as he spoke from a White House balcony. He announced an executive order for all federal and state flags to fly at half-mast in the pope’s honor.
and make news, he should have repented for all the Trump administration has done.
How about maliciously striking fear in the hearts of all immigrants and migrants, assumed by ICE to be criminals who don’t belong? Francis was pro-immigrant, pro-sanctuary, and anti-ICE. Francis was the anti-Trump.
Vance could have asked for prayers from the pope, who has also urged peace between Ukraine and Russia. Vance? He feels it may be time to move on and abandon Ukraine to Russia.
Vance could have asked for forgiveness for what the Trump administration is doing, favoring tax cuts to billionaires instead of making a difference in the lives of the poor and working class. He could have asked for the restoration of USAID funds to continue to keep the world from famine and disease.
Vance could have sought forgiveness for his public acts. But he didn’t. He’s loyal to one man. And it’s not a pope. It’s a president, the guy who thinks “How Great Thou Art” is a hymn about him!
The president of the United States could only come up with two lines on his social media post: “Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!”
Better than “thoughts and prayers.” It’s genial,
“He was a good man. Worked hard. He loved the world,” said Trump. (Was he talking about the pope? Or practicing Pete Hegseth’s political obituary? )
This may be Francis’ parting gift to all Americans. Trump and Vance can’t utter his name or be in his presence without being exposed for the buffoons that they are.
Compared to a holy man, Trump and Vance are soiled, unworthy, and disgraceful. Trump is, after all, the man I call “Convicted Felon, Donald Trump, 34,” as in counts of fraud.
And yet, you know, this. Francis would forgive them. Trump and Vance are the leaders on the margins. He’d wash their feet.
That’s what this pope would do. He just wouldn’t have voted for them.
EMIL GUILLERMO is a journalist and commentator. His talk show is on www.amok. com.
U.S. VP JD Vance meeting with Pope Francis.
PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
Vico Sotto And The Fight Against Trapo Culture
By Seneca Moraleda-Puguan
Flowery words. Grand promises. “Ayuda.” Free services. Better lives.
Yet they remain unfulfilled. Same names. Same faces. Plastered across posters. Oligarchs. Dynasties.
I grew up in the Philippines, tired of seeing the same people run for office again and again. Nothing changes. No real progress. Just the same tired cycle, repeating with each election.
The country is led by politicians who are… traditional.
Or, as many Filipinos put it: TRAPO (traditional politicians).
It’s frustrating. It’s heartbreaking. And honestly, it’s infuriating. Even now, as I look at the Senate polls, I feel disillusioned and disappointed.
How can so many still
vote for those who have failed us? It makes me question whether I could ever truly come back and build a future in the Philippines.
Will we ever break free from this cycle? Will we always settle for corrupt, self-serving, incompetent leaders—some of whom are even convicted felons?
And yet, in the midst of all this, there is one voice and one name that stands out.
Vico Sotto.
The young mayor of Pasig City. A leader who offers something rare in Philippine politics: hope. A leader who represents everything we’ve long been searching for: honesty, transparency, and genuine service.
In 2019, he did what many believed was impossible – ending the decades-long reign of the Eu-
(BOOK REVIEW: Five Books ....from page 10)
Nanay and Pitong showing contrasting expressions.
Jhun-Jhun (before martial law)
The 1970s were a time of protest and demonstrations on the urban streets. In January 1970, labor groups and students rallied in front of Malacanang Palace to protest unfair labor laws and injustice in the land. Six people
sebio dynasty in Pasig. He did it not with name recall or gimmicks, but with substance, vision, and integrity, and a sincere desire to serve others.
Yes, he comes from a family of celebrities and politicians. But unlike the dynasties we’re used to, he doesn’t rely on name recall. He doesn’t use his parents’ fame to climb the ranks. He stands on the strength of his values and work.
He doesn’t treat government service as a performance. He is transparent about city spending, ensures that public funds are properly allocated, and re-
died in that protest, but the growing unrest continued such that by September 1972, Martial Law was declared.
Jhun-Jhun, our protagonist, observes the activities of his older brother, who is an active participant in the protests.
When his older brother disappears, Jhun-Jhun and his family search the military camps for his
(FEATURE: Philippine Studies ....from page 11)
• Advanced Filipino Abroad Program (AFAP):
From 1991 to 2011, AFAP promoted Filipino language proficiency through immersive summer programs in the Philippines. Participants lived with host families and engaged in cultural activities. Drs. Teresita Ramos and Ruth Mabanglo, program authors, trained 110 Americans in the advanced Filipino language. Though discontinued after 20 years due to their retirement,
AFAP left a lasting legacy in language education for Americans and Filipinos.
• Endowments Supporting Research: CPS has four endowments funded by Alfonso Yuchengco, Ligaya Fruto, Corky Trinidad, and Belinda Aquino to support scholarships, research grants, and faculty initiatives.
50th Anniversary Celebration
CPS features these
fuses to plaster his face on every project.
He attributes his administration’s accomplishments to the people of Pasig, not to himself.
Even the world has taken notice. In 2021, he was recognized by the U.S. Department of State with the International Anticorruption Champions Awardthe only Filipino to receive it.
This is leadership. This is what governance should look like.
As we approach the May 11 elections, I urge every voter: Be wiser. Be braver. We’ve seen where blind loyalty to big names and pretty promises gets us.
Don’t vote for the familiar. Vote for the capable.
Don’t vote for the loudest voice. Vote for the one with the cleanest track record and the clearest vision.
Let’s follow the example of the people of Pasig, who took a risk on a fresh face and are now reaping the rewards: efficient use
brother’s whereabouts.
The bloody demonstrations and their aftermath are described from a young child’s perspective and their impact on the personal lives of the people and families.
The illustrator is Brian Vallesteros, and the images of those days are captured well in his choice of medium, which looks like pastel pen-
events in its golden anniversary:
• Arts and Culture Exhibit, Kulturang Makulay (Colorful Culture). The celebration kicks off with this exhibit from September 28, 2025, to January 16, 2026, in collaboration with the East-West Center. The exhibit, curated by renowned fashion designer Iris Gil Viacrusis, will showcase the rich diversity of Filipino culture, featuring an extraordinary collection of fashion,
of tax revenues, public services reaching families, a city transformed and admired by neighboring municipalities for its efficiency and integrity.
If we truly love our country, the most important thing we can do is vote for leaders who serve selflessly, people who see public office not as a throne, but as a responsibility.
Vico Sotto’s brand of leadership proves that change is possible. That public service can be honest, effective, and people-centered.
That hope isn’t lost - it just needs to be protected, supported, and replicated.
I may no longer live in Pasig. I only stayed there for a year before moving to South Korea. But I am rooting for him. I’m praying that more leaders, not just politicians, like him will rise.
The Philippines deserves better. And with leaders like Vico, better is possible.
cils. Symbolic images of those times serve as a backdrop to the characters’ close-up portraits and the action figures.
UNICEF supported these books in its efforts to disseminate to families the rights of children to education, health, and protection from harm, among others.
Clearly, storytelling is one of the more ef-
art, music, and artifacts.
• iJeepney, an Interactive Community for Filipino History and Culture Empowering the Next Generation. This updated version is more than just a revamp—it’s a dynamic, user-friendly platform designed to reflect the latest in technology, offering interactive lessons, engaging formats, and increased accessibility. iJeepney is an online K-12 curriculum that features
fective ways for imparting these abstractions to those who need it most.
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.
Philippine history and culture, empowering next-gen youth. It will be launched in October 2025.
• Philippine rare collections. UH Hamilton Library proudly houses one of the most extensive Philippine collections outside the Philippines, focusing on the Philippines and Filipinos in the Social Sciences and Humanities. On October 15-23, 2025, it will conduct workshops and tours of the
