Hawaii Filipino Chronicle - December 21, 2024

DECEMBER 21, 2024

EDITORIAL

Sofronio Vasquez’s The Voice USA Win Is a Triumphant Immigrant Story SPECIAL ISSUE WITH

CANDID PERSPECTIVES

Will A Dictator’s Loss Change Trump’s Tune?

CHRISTMAS 2024 Supplement INSIDE

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS

King of Kings: A Christmas Reflection

2 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  DECEMBER 21, 2024

EDITORIAL

We Hope You Consider Giving to Charity This Christmas Season, Merry Christmas! Maligayang Pasko!

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here are copious worthy charities that we can all choose from this Christmas season.

Often people will give to health-related charities in memory of a loved one who died from a specific disease. Examples include the American Heart Association, Mended Hearts, the American Cancer Society and Susan G. Komen for the Cure (for cancer). St. Jude’s Children’s hospital is a popular choice. Their slogan captures the essence of their charitable services: “Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food — so they can focus on helping their child live.”

There are charities that feed the hungry like your local food bank or those that specifically feed seniors like Meals on Wheels. Food insecurity and hunger is a growing problem in Hawaii that ranks among the highest in the nation.

In light of last year’s devastating Lahaina fires, the Maui Food Bank reports high demand for food.

In Hawaii, there are individuals who are facing the hardships of homelessness. Charities like the Institute for Human Services (IHS) help vulnerable individuals who often struggle to find shelter, food, and support. It’s well known for its dedication to supporting Hawaii’s homeless population.

Churches and faith-based organizations are often providers of various charitable efforts. The Catholic Church through Catholic Charities of Hawaii provides a wide range of social services that serves over 40,000 individuals each year. They are currently providing Maui relief, senior services, housing assistance, counseling for mental health, immigration and citizenship assistance, among others.

Within our own Hawaii Filipino community there are charities doing invaluable work like the Bayanihan Clinic Without Wall (BCWW) which provides free medical and dental healthcare to immigrants, indigent locals and the homeless without health insurance. For those wanting to extend help to our ancestral homeland the Philippines, the Ohana Medical Mission (OMM) is a charity of choice.

OMM travels to underserved areas in the Philippines and other developing nations, providing essential medical, dental, and surgical care to local residents.

There are charities for the promotion of the arts, human rights, disaster relief, environmental, children, senior, research, cultural, educational (scholarships), pro-bono law, animal rights, literacy, university, refugees and immigrant.

Arguably the most powerful charitable expression is direct charity to help someone you know – closely related or outside your core group – who are having perhaps financial difficulty due to a sudden job loss or temporary physical disability from an accident.

It’s also true that charitable acts do not always involve money or material assistance. Spending time with our kupuna-tatas-nanas who might be alone and lonely means more than you can imagine. Volunteer work will take time but not necessarily money. Volunteering in some cases goes farther than donating money.

If you’re really motivated there is the option of organizing a group charitable act like collecting canned food at your workplace or church for the local food bank or clothes for the local homeless shelter.

The digital age opens new opportunities for charitable

(continue on page 2)

FROM THE PUBLISHER

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reetings and Maligayang Pasko to our readers. We are pleased to present our last issue of the year, and we end it with two cover stories on Christmas.

First, associate editor Edwin Quinabo reports on Filipinos sharing the gift of giving to charities, examples of their contributions, why they feel motivated to help others, as well as some of the charitable organizations they support like the Hawaii Food Bank, Catholic Charities of Hawaii, Lanakila Meals on Wheels, and others. He also covers Filipino organizations coming together for Paskuhan (Christmas) with Seafarers on December 18 at Honolulu Harbor in which companionship and gifts were presented to our community of migrant seafarers, many of whom are Filipino and far away from their homes this Christmas. It’s a joyous, feel-good article perfect for the holiday season.

In our second cover story which is found in our first ever Christmas supplement, editorial assistant Jim Bea Sampaga writes “Celebrating Christmas the Filipino Way” in which she covers some of our most popular traditions like the Simbang Gabi (the nineday series of Masses attended by Catholics right before Christmas) the Noche Buena (Filipino Christmas Eve dinner) and others.

Also in the supplement, HFC columnist Carlota Ader gives us a Chronicle Pulse asking the question: “Which Christmas Celebrations in the Philippines Do You Miss Most?” As food will be abundant at most of our Christmas gatherings, we present some festive cooking recipes for you to try that would be a sure potluck favorite. Read our other interesting articles in the supplement.

The religious aspect of Christmas, the central reason for the season in Christ’s birth, we return to our regular issue with two articles. Seneca Moraleda-Puguan writes “King of Kings: A Christmas Reflection” and HFC contributor Bermie Dizon contributes “Christmas Points to Jesus.” Dizon said, “Remember, God’s love is for everyone. John 3:1617 reminds us that God sent His Son not to condemn the world, but to save it. Jesus’ sacrifice was an incredible act of love, and it offers hope to all who seek Him.” In mainland news, we have “Filipino Migrants in the US Prepare to Defend Themselves Against Trump’s Mass Deportation Plans Amid Fears and Uncertainty.” HFC columnist Gary Hooser contributes “Thoughts on Trump and Hawaii. What’s Next?” In our second editorial, we explore the significance of Sofronio Vasquez winning the Voice USA, the first Asian, first Filipino, ever to win a popular American TV singing competition. His journey as an immigrant from the Philippines to upstate New York seeking the American dream is an inspiration. Filipinos across the globe are celebrating his win.

We hope you enjoy these stories and more. Lastly, on behalf of the HFC staff, I’d like to wish all our readers and your families a wonderful Christmas.

Christ is born. Thank you for your support this year.

Remember for your convenience, HFC can be accessed for free on our website. 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

DECEMBER 21, 2024  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  3

EDITORIAL

Sofronio Vasquez’s Win Is a Triumphant Immigrant Story and Signals That the American Dream Is Alive And Well

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ilipinos across the globe – from Gary V and Martin Nievera in the Philippines to SoCal Filipinos on social media to our own Hawaii Filipino community – got an early Christmas gift when “The Voice USA” crowned Sofronio Vasquez as the Season 26 winner, making him the first Filipino and first Asian to win in “The Voice USA” or any other major American TV singing competition.

Along with the title of “The Voice,” Vasquez earned the $100,000 prize and a coveted record deal that could jumpstart for him a long and successful music career. The winner was chosen by voting in the last final two rounds. Prior to that, the show’s judges determined who went forward. Vasquez was coached by celebrity Michael Bublé.

On his historic win, Vasquez said “It [the competition] wasn’t like fighting for my dream, but my family’s dream, my country’s dream to be represented in America that you guys are accepted here in America.

Dreaming big is actually possible.” Vasquez, who is originally from Misamis

Occidental, Philippines but now resides in Utica, New York, adds “thank you so much to my Filipinos everywhere and in America who gave so much love and support.”

Filipinos are known worldwide as talented singers and are no strangers to “The Voice,” “American Idol,” or other singing competitions in Europe and Asia. Hawaii’s Kaylee Shimizu and Jason Arcilla competed on “The Voice USA.” Other Filipinos were Vaughn Mugol, Jej Vinson, Kathrina Feigh, Sarah Suzette Namba, Anatalia Villaranda, Allan Paul, Amy Vachal, Katriz Trinidad, Joseph Apostol. Perhaps most notable was Fil-Am Jessica Sanchez who placed first runner-up in American Idol.

Vasquez, or more commonly referred to as his unique first name, Sofronio, finally broke the proverbial glass ceiling. To many Filipinos across the globe, Sofronio’s victory represented a win for all previous Filipinos who’ve competed in the past and provides inspiration for all who dream of winning in the future.

The greater hope is for Sofronio to become a main-

(The Homeowners ....from page 2)

all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.

And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Perhaps there is no greater way to celebrate the arrival of our Lord in His birth on Christmas than to practice His teachings.

We might also be motivated by other non-religious reasons like a desire to uplift our communities by empowering others. People could be driven by a sense of social justice, a desire to help others in a society that can often leave people falling through the cracks, metaphorically. Some of us are humanitarians or activists who are motivated to bring

work through crowdfunding.

Why give this holiday season In the Gospels Jesus teaches us the importance of caring for our neighbors, helping to serve the most vulnerable groups.

He teaches us to treat our neighbors with love, mercy and compassion. In what’s known as the greatest commandment: Matthew 22:3440 states Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Saddcees, the Pharisees got together.

One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with

stay in pop music, joining the likes of international pop icons Bruno Mars, Olivia Rodrigo and H.E.R. or creating a niche like Musical sensation Lea Salonga or upcoming star Morissette (the latter two are also from the Philippines).

Never Give Up What makes Sofronio’s victory even more compelling is his perseverance.

Ten years ago, he tried out for “The Voice Philippines” but failed to get picked up by any of the coaches to advance in the competition.

In 2017, he placed seventh in Tawag ng Tanghalan (TNT). In 2019, he placed third in TNT All-Star Gand Resbak. It appeared that his music career would be over before it ever got started.

In his childhood, he grew up in extreme poverty.

He, his siblings and parents, shared a one-bedroom and slept on the floor. Their residence had no indoor plumbing. The young Sofronio would not be beaten by the adversity of poverty. He went on to obtain a dentistry degree at Misamis University in Ozamiz City in 2016. It was a doctorate degree that took six years to complete.

During this time his father passed away and Sofronio wanted to take on the role of head of the household to help his entire family. In 2022, he signed up to a program for international dentists in the U.S., and aimed to pursue his dental studies in Utica, New York.

But he had to start from the bottom, working as a dental assistant while studying. He talked about the difficulty of starting again in a new country and being separated from his family.

All along, he hadn’t abandoned his music aspirations. Then this year, after rejection after rejection on previous shows, Sofronio’s dream came true as the winner of arguably one of the biggest stages of all singing competitions, “The Voice USA.” His tenacity, hard work to better his God-given talent of singing, and with the help of American and Filipino audiences who voted for him, Sofronio prevailed.

What an inspirational story!

An immigrant success story Sofronio mentioned that with his winning prize, he hopes to bring over his mother to reside in the U.S. dignity to others’ lives for His story is also an the sake of improving the immigrant success story human condition.

Whatever your motivation might be, it’s clear that there is tremendous need all around us. Our lives are connected beyond ways we can see or comprehend.

For example, why is it that when we do acts of charity and kindness, we feel a deep sense of gratification? There could be many reasons, but perhaps one of them, an inexplicable, almost metaphysical one, is that we are connected to each other.

When we help others, we are also helping ourselves.

In the spirit of goodwill this season, we wish all of you, our readers and supporters, a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Christ is born and with us.

which resounds to many of us in our community who are immigrants or whose parents came from the Philippines or another country.

His desire to bring along his mother to the U.S. also is perpetuating the long tradition of family reunification immigration, the vehicle through which many of our ancestors used to settle in the U.S. We see that Sofronio’s victory goes well beyond a singing competition. He is a role model to all dreamers who want to succeed not just in a career in music, but in whatever field our Filipino youth decides to pursue.

He is a role model for immigrants in the U.S., Filipinos and non-Filipinos alike, and signals to us all that the American Dream is alive and well.

For example, that in the U.S., merit and talent is still rewarded no matter what your ethnic background may be, as Sofronio has demonstrated.

Congratulations Sofronio Vasquez! Thank you for your inspiration. We’re elated for your victory and wish you continued success in all your endeavors. And to our youth and Filipinos of all ages, keep on working hard and chase after your dreams.

4 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  DECEMBER 21, 2024

COVER STORY

It’s The Season of Giving, Filipinos Uplift Their Community Through Charitable Works

By Edwin Quinabo

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he season of giving is upon us.

To Christians, the ultimate gift was that God gave His son Jesus to the world for the salvation of humanity, which speaks to the heart of why Christmas is celebrated.

While most will exchange gifts to their loved ones, others this time of the year will also donate to charitable causes – to nonprofits that shelter the homeless, to their church that feed the hungry, to hospitals that provide free care to children with cancer or complete strangers needing help.

For some Christians they commonly refer to Matthew 25:34-36 as their motivation for giving charitably. Then the king will say to those at his right hand, “Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.”

In this passage from the Bible, Jesus speaks about the final judgement and how those who’ve shown compassion and kindness to others will inherit the kingdom of God. Acts of charity and kindness for others not religiously motivated have other reasons for giving this holiday season.

Compassion to give is what makes us human, some would say. And their motivation is grounded in the idea of “paying it forward,” that as a beneficiary of good fortune, for example of having a job with a stable income, they will choose to repay that blessing to others like to a charity rather than paying it back to the original benefactor.

Eve Sarmiento-Holms, a former Moanalua resident now living in Laguna Beach, CA, said, “Giving is something I inherited from my parents who gave to the Philippines often. When I first moved to California about 30 years ago, I just graduated from the University of Hawaii. I didn’t have much financial security then and was just starting

my career in a new city. I remember standing in a grocery line the week of Christmas talking to a stranger. He had a bouquet of roses that he said was going to be his wife’s Christmas present. He talked about how times were tough. He also had a large, canned ham he said would be for his family’s Christmas dinner. I don’t think they sell those anymore.

“I was touched thinking back at my own Christmases in Hawaii with our huge potlucks and abundant presents. When it was time for me to pay for my groceries, I offered to pay for his flowers and can of ham,” Sarmiento-Holmes said. “It wasn’t much. He was a stranger in need. I remember this act of charity after all these years mostly because it was at a time when I didn’t have much at all myself, just barely making rent as I looked for a job. Until today, I remember this stranger’s face lit up when I offered to pay for his items. It was a beautiful moment.”

Today, Sarmiento-Holms says she’s increased her charitable work as she is financially able to do more now.

During the Christmas season she gives to her local parish and the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement in Garrison, New York. “As a Catholic, I choose to donate to the Catholic Church which does amazing work in our community. I also chose to donate to religious orders because many of them rely on charitable donations to continue their pastoral ministries and work helping the poor. These orders do not have a church-school or parishioners to support them. Many of them live humbly and take a vow of poverty.”

The Catholic Church is one of the world’s largest non-governmental providers of education, health, and social care. It operates over 150,000 schools from primary to university level and runs 5,000 hospitals, with 70% of them located in the Third World. The Church is also involved in social action programs. Caritas Internationalis, a confederation of 162 national Catholic relief, development

and social organizations, is one of the Catholic Church’s largest charitable organizations.

Catholic Charities of Hawaii, a charitable force uplifting our community

Catholic Charities of Hawaii provides senior services, housing assistance, counseling and mental health, immigration assistance and a range of other social services in Hawaii, serving people regardless of their faith or culture. They also have an annual Holidays from the Heart campaign to share gifts with others.

Vernon Wong, Chair of Catholic Charities of Hawaii and Rob Van Tassell, President and CEO, said in a statement, “Catholic Charities Hawaii continues to be there for individuals and families during difficult and vulnerable times – providing critical aid for those most vulnerable.”

The organization’s 2024 statement hasn’t come out yet. “In 2023, your financial support helped us provide much-needed services and programs to over 113,000 local families, children, veterans, seniors, and individuals facing isolation, poverty and crisis. This also created opportunities to expand valuable services and resources, especially for gap groups, providing hope to individuals and families in great need,” they said.

A week ago, Catholic Charities of Hawaii teamed up with Hilo Target and first responders in their fourth annual “Heroes and Helpers” event in Hilo. Fifty keikis in need were each given a $125 Target gift card to purchase whatever they wanted. Community volunteers wrapped the items

DECEMBER 21, 2024  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  5

COVER STORY (It’s the Season ....from page 4)

selected by the children so they joy and giving. Many of them, becould open them on Christmas day. ing so far away from home, were graced with a feeling of communiPaskuhan (Christmas) With Sea- ty and connection.

Paskuhan (Christmas) with farers Filipino organizers held a special Seafarers was spearheaded by event to help migrant seafarers and Hawaii Filipinos for Truth, Jusfishermen, the Paskuhan (Christ- tice and Democracy (HFTJD), mas) with Seafarers on December with support from Filipino As18, Honolulu Harbor Pier 17. Or- sociation of University Women ganizers say it was an evening of (FAUW), Hawaii Seafarers Minfood, stories, songs and meaningful istry, Anakbayan, and the Naconnection with kababayan fish- tional Alliance for Filipino Conermen who received long-sleeved cerns (NAFCON).

Victor Limon, secretary of shirts, rainproof jackets, beanies, toiletries, towels, pillows, board HFTJD. said “The presence of the games and other items to help them community is always appreciated by the seafarers. Besides companwhile at sea.

Migrant seafarers, many of ionship and medical care, the seathem who are Filipinos, work on farers also appreciate the commucargo ships or deep-sea fishing. Be- nity’s donations of supplies that cause they are recruited by interna- help them get by in their day-totional agencies and travel globally, day life while they’re in the boats they do not have firm labor rights out in the ocean.”

He adds, “Providing support and are exposed to one of the most dangerous work conditions, have to the seafarers not only shows our long work hours and face immigra- deep love for them as workers and tion-related issues. These seafarers fellow migrants, and members of – who contribute to Hawaii’s indus- our communities but also sends a tries – spend long stretches of weeks message of compassion and justice away from their families, including about this group of global workers that are constantly exposed to during the Christmas season.

Organizers say the event helped one of the most dangerous fields of to uplift their spirit in this season of work due to poor working condi-

“The presence of the community is always appreciated by the seafarers. Besides companionship and medical care, the seafarers also appreciate the community’s donations of supplies that help them get by in their day-to-day life while they’re in the boats out in the ocean.” Providing support to the seafarers not only shows our deep love for them as workers and fellow migrants, and members of our communities but also sends a message of compassion and justice about this group of global workers that are constantly exposed to one of the most dangerous fields of work due to poor working conditions, long work hours, and immigration-related issues including human trafficking.

What’s a better way than to share the Christmas spirit with the seafarers and help the fishermen to feel empowered

Helping the Hawaii Food Bank

home where residents have luxurious common spaces, are physically able to roam about on their own and have families visiting them in a nice garden. The residents there were on wheelchairs, alone, and looked to be sponsored by the state.”

He said the volunteer teens at this church come from mostly lower-income families. But they had a desire to spread the Christmas joy to seniors. The elderly are among the most vulnerable groups suffering from isolation, loneliness and mental illness like depression, especially during the holidays.

Seniors at care facilities often had their spouse pass away and have no family left on the islands at times.

A new study published by the American Medical Association found that 29.2% of adults aged 50 to 80 said they felt isolated from others “some of the time” or “often” in 2024.

“We went to the senior facility, a group of around 20

Hawaii Foodbank provides 12.5 million pounds of food to Hawaii’s struggling families. Hawaii Foodbank has outlets in Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii. According to USDA reports, Hawaii has one of the highest rates of poverty in the U.S. This correlates to the state’s food insecurity with “Hawaii ranked 6th in the U.S. for the highest projected rates of child food insecurity,” said Brandi Saragossa, the Operations Director for Maui Food Bank.

According to the College of Social Sciences at the University of Hawaii, the state’s food insecurity rate has been rising with food insecurity in Hawaii climbing from 11.2% in 2018 to 16.8% by 2020.

Most experts agree that the struggle for food access is intertwined with the high cost of living in Hawaii.

Lee Santiago, Kapolei, said doing charitable work is important to her as a Christian. She’s been active with

the church she attends helping to feed the homeless.

They’ve passed out meals at Aala Park and Chinatown during the holiday season.

“This year I donated to the Food Bank because I know there are many families struggling just to put meals on the table. My children and I dropped off canned goods and fresh produce at the Hawaii Food Bank’s Oahu warehouse.”

Given the high food insecurity especially in these current times of high inflation, the Hawaii Food Bank encourages that people interested in donating this holiday season to start a community food drive at their business, school, club, place of worship, neighborhood, organization or anywhere else.

One year after the Maui wildfires, families are still struggling. “We’re seeing families — full households, working-class families where mom and dad are both working, sometimes two jobs each — but they’re strug-

gling, especially with the transition people moving from their transitional housing into housing,” Saragossa told KHON2. “We’ve also seen people need things like household items, cleaning supplies, dish soap, laundry soap—and we’ve been helping them through that as well because of the fire.”

The Hawaii Food Bank is also looking for volunteers for the holidays and all-year round. Volunteers can expect to serve meals or hand out food, sort food, box it and a variety of other tasks.

Comforting seniors through Christmas caroling

Erick Punsalan, Kalihi, recalls one special Christmas season when he volunteered with his church St. John’s the Baptist in Kalihi to sing Christmas carols. “I was 35 at the time. I helped drive mostly high school teens to a senior facility where most of the residents were very old and alone. It wasn’t a senior

and loved?”

– Victor Limon

Secretary of Hawaii Filipinos for Truth, Justice and Democracy HFTJD commenting on the the Paskuhan (Christmas) With Seafarers event on Dec 18

tions, long work hours, and immigration-related issues including human trafficking. What’s a better way than to share the Christmas spirit with the seafarers and help the fishermen to feel empowered and loved?” of us. The staff coordinated that the residents would gather in the common area where we mingled with them at first then sang about 10 Christmas carols. The residents smiled and clapped. Some were animated and sang along.

“Not only was it a great experience for the seniors, but it also taught these teens the value of community service, that you don’t have to be making lots of money to volunteer and make a difference,” Punsalan said.

Charitable work beyond Christmas

Benymar M Sadumiano, Kailua Kona, HI, said “Christmas is a time of passing on all the blessings that you received during the year and saying thanks to the Lord for His gift of grace and mercy. In the past Sadumiano have made donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and to the American Red Cross. “It’s always good to pay it forward.” (continue on page 6)

6 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  DECEMBER 21, 2024

COMMENTARY

Thoughts on Trump and Hawaii. What’s Next?

By Gary Hooser

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he general mood among many in our islands was reflected in this email I received recently.

“Oh, man. Just saw the latest – They control House and Senate. We’re going to be in hell. How will we recover? They will make draconian laws. We have no recourse – there will be too many things and laws to focus on.

“All his appointees hate government. I’m scared, fearful of what’s going to happen next.”

Yes. It’s increasingly bizarre and scary.

It’s clear President-elect Trump is intentionally exacerbating the already existing discontent, distrust, and uncertainty.

Instead of trying to calm nerves, settle the unrest, and bring us together – he continues to stir the pot.

He seems intent on shoving his arrogance in our face and pushing the limits of every boundary.

He will push, and threaten,

and push and threaten until the streets are filled with people marching in defiance and anger – pushing back against his unstable narcissism.

Then of course he will step in with authoritarianism to solve the problems and eliminate the chaos… and he will blame it all on Democrats and “woke’s” for not cooperating.

So what to do?

We can play the armchair quarterback blame game, but the bottom line is Donald Trump won the election and will be the next President of the United States.

He won the popular vote and all 7 “battleground” states.

Republicans beat the Democrats nationally winning a majority of seats in the U.S. Senate and in the House of Representatives.

What’s next?

My initial thoughts were about the many checks and balances in

President-elect Trump

place which would normally slow the actual implementation of his many threats and promises.

I’m thinking now he will frame the opposition as obstructionists, and play hardball like we’ve never seen before. He will force through the approval of his newly appointed unqualified ideologues, who will then take charge of our military, our top secrets, our international relations, our legal systems, and every single aspect of our government.

As to the streets filling with brown shirts and fascists, that’s something way beyond my pay grade to figure out, predict, or understand. All I can think

of is “Lucky we live in Hawaii”.

Think global and act local. That’s my strategy for maintaining some semblance of sanity and a moving forward plan – and hoping our Governor, State Legislature, and County Council – will do the same.

We must fight back against what’s currently unfolding in Washington DC by doubling down on our local efforts, impacting our local communities. When our new president removes federal environmental protections and reduces support for public education – we must increase those protections and expand support at the state level. When he attacks already marginalized communities and cuts important government services, we must push back hard and defend our community and our values.

We must also focus immediately on the most important “disaster preparedness” issue facing

our islands. The time is now, more than ever before, to get serious about food and energy self-sufficiency.

Growing our own food will expand and diversify our economy, improve our health, preserve valuable open space, and be the best insurance possible to protect us against shipping disruptions and a world gone crazy.

Increasing tax incentives for roof-top solar energy production is an obvious essential action that also must be taken now.

If we’re wrong about the future under Trump (and I hope we are), then that’s ok. After all, achieving energy and food independence, improving public education, supporting environmental protection, and treating all communities with respect and aloha — have no downside.

nourishment – it brings us together. But it’s not the only way to connect with one another, at Lanakila Meals on Wheels, we are committed to ensuring no kupuna goes hungry or feels lonely. From home-delivered meals to virtual gathering spaces, our variety of services lift seniors up and into the community.”

Vida, a meal recipient, said “There were times where I felt like if I didn’t get my meals, I would starve. I’m just so grateful.

I feel like somebody really cares.”

tal healthcare to immigrants, indigent locals and the homeless without health insurance.

Ohana Medical Mission: travels to underserved areas in the Philippines and other developing nations, providing essential medical, dental, and surgical care to local residents.

Institute for Human Services (HIS): helps to end homelessness in Hawaii Make-a-Wish Hawaii: grant a wish of a child with a life-threatening medical condition like cancer. It also helps children with disabilities.

Project Hawaii Inc: works with children and the homeless and provides emergency healthcare for people, especially children

GARY HOOSER is a former Hawaiʻi State Senator and Majority Leader.

(COVER STORY: It’s the Season ....from page 5)

He has also supported the United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH) Sakada Scholarship program. The scholarships are awarded to high school graduates of Filipino descent who choose to pursue a college education. UFCH holds fundraisers for scholarships.

“When we help our Filipino youth obtain a college education, we contribute to the overall economic, political and social progress of Filipinos in Hawaii. We should all support this effort because it empowers Filipinos and gives our community a bigger voice when it comes to civic affairs.”

The scholarship is named after the Sakada workers who came and worked in the sugar plantations more than a hundred years ago.

Imelda Collado Anderson, Aiea, said, “We have given to the Pinoy Power Grateful Heart Foundation,

which was established in 2007 when I was crowned Mrs. Hawaii Filipina.” She said her late husband, Tito Mahal John Leon Anderson, encouraged me to return God’s infinite blessings by sharing His gifts with the less fortunate.

“With matching contributions from Prudential Insurance & Financial Services and yearly donations from our Empowered awardees, we completed a number of projects for six elementary schools in the Amarosa and Cabeza districts in the Philippines. The Foundation also helped the children at Tahanang Carmela De Amores Orphanage in the Philippines and encouraged graduating scholarship recipients to mentor their fellow students.”

Small help goes a long way

Santiago said doing small works of charity can

go a long way. “I teach my children that giving back to our community, no matter the amount – this is what God would want of us. It’s wonderful that during the holiday season many of us will dig deep even in these times of hardship to help others. This is one reason why Christmas time feels so special.”

Lanakila Meals on Wheels

Punsalan still has a soft spot for the elderly. “I would encourage others to share their time and love with our elderly not just during the holidays but allyear round. One organization that does great work is Lanakila Meals on Wheels.

Their work is a God send.”

Lanakila Meals on Wheels is Oahu’s largest and only island-wide meal delivery service for seniors.

Their website says, “We believe that food is more than

•

•

•

Other notable charities

Here are some other charities Hawaii residents might consider donating during the holiday season or all-year round. Visit their websites for more information.

• Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls: provides free medical and den-

•

DECEMBER 21, 2024  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  7

CANDID PERSPECTIVES

Will A Dictator’s Loss Change Trump’s Tune?

By Emil Guillermo

I

n our polarized country, half of America can’t wait, while many of us still wonder where’s Kamala.

I just hope the convicted felon awaiting to be president again who famously said during the campaign that if elected he’d be a dictator for a day, eats his words.

Dictators aren’t doing so well these days.

Recently the dictator Bashar al-Assad was run out of Syria and sought exile with his puppet master/dictator Vladimir Putin Russia. In just a few weeks, a coalition of rebels applied enough pressure to end a family regime in Syria that last-

ed 50 years.

Assad’s wealthy family dictatorship plundered Syria and ruled in terror.

The family lived in splendor while the people languished.

It sounds all too familiar to Filipino Americans, many of whom came to the U.S. fleeing the Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Assad’s end was different from the Filipinos who forged a peaceful People Power movement that chased the Marcos family to Hawaii where they sought refuge from their U.S. puppet handlers.

But as in Manila-there was cheering on the streets of Syria. Men, women, and children.

Christians, Muslims, different sects, and ethnici-

Deposed Syria’s Bashar alAssad

ties, all united against the dictator.

There was a raucous sense of joy. Assad was done.

Assad has been described as a genocidal narco-trafficking tyrant, whose friends were America’s biggest enemies, Iran, Hezbollah, and Russia, said Mouaz Moustafa, the executive director of the Syrian Emergency Task Force, on CNN.

Moustafa said it was amazing that there would be no more Russian airstrikes, no more Assad gulags torturing civilians.

“It’s very rare in a world where we see so much war, destruction, horrible people doing horrible things. To see good triumph over evil is an amazing thing.”

You need to hear from someone like Moustafa to grasp the significance of the events recently; Otherwise, you might just shrug and say, this is par for the course in the Middle East.

But recent events had some trickle-down.

Consider that we are talking about Assad, the one Tulsi Gabbard consorted with and hyped to her colleagues when she was in Congress. Now

Assad has been shamed into exile with his puppet master Russia, and Gabbard wants to be the U.S. director of national security. Given her wrongheaded judgment on Assad, can she be trusted with any national secrets?

It’s still not over in Syria, as now there will be a scramble to see what kind of governing democracy emerges.

Predictably, Donald Trump has said, “The United States should have nothing to do with it. This is not our fight. Let it play out. Do not get involved.”

Nouveau isolationism.

But it sounds more like Trump speaking Russian talking points, running interference for his buddy Putin. (continue on page 9)

8 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  DECEMBER 21, 2024

AS I SEE IT

By Elpidio R. Estioko

P

eople with limited mobility can now rejoice!

FilAm Joseph Alvarico from Antioch, a 2024 California Teacher of the Year who teaches engineering and robotics at Ygnacio Valley High School, Mt. Diablo Unified School District, leads the Invention Grant to create a technological solution to a real-world problem – those with limited mobility.

Alvarico, in his text message to this columnist, shared the exciting news – “Ygnacio Valley High School has been awarded the prestigious Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam grant in the amount of $7,500 to invent a technological solution to a real-world problem. This is huge deal to our students and the school, and we’re thrilled… I’d love for you to help us spread the word. I’ve attached the news release with more details…”

This will give persons with limited hand mobility a chance to be able to freely move and live a regular life just like ordinary people do.

They will now be able to

Invention Grant to Create Technological Solution to People with Limited Mobility Set overcome their challenges daily, interact with everybody without limitations, and regain their independence reconnecting with loved ones and their community.

Also, in the news release issued by the office of Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer, Mt. Diablo Unified School District, “Ygnacio Valley High School in the East Bay is one of only eight high schools nationwide to be selected as an InvenTeam this year, and it is the only school in California to earn this honor.”

So, what does the Ygnacio Valley High School InvenTeam do? They are inventing a solution to assist those with limited ability to use their hands to— whether due to arthritis, cerebral palsy, or other conditions—overcome challenges in their daily lives, such as gripping utensils or using hand gestures to communicate.

Most likely, the invention will benefit more than 50 million adults in the U.S. affected by arthritis and 764,000 people living with cerebral palsy, which

Joseph Alvarico, 2024 California Teacher of the Year

challenges are widespread and can become frustrating struggles, leading to feelings of isolation, Alvarico surmised.

To further understand what they are doing, Alvarico explained that the “Ygnacio Valley High School InvenTeam is developing an innovative solution to empower people with limited hand mobility, with a goal of not only improving their quality of life, but also promoting a more inclusive and connected society.”

Alvarico initiated the InvenTeam application process during the summer and worked with his students to prepare the final proposal. A respected panel of university professors, inventors, entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and college students including former InvenTeam members now working in industry selected the grantees.

The InvenTeam, for precision, will also work with Ygnacio Valley High School math teacher Tabatha Box, who is part of the school’s International Baccalaureate staff and will help guide the students through the development of their invention.

As I See It, the team also hopes to attract outside mentors in the field of technology and/or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) support.

“We are starting to tell people about what we’re trying to do in the hopes of getting mentors, in-kind donations or monetary support for

this,” Alvarico said clarifying that the grant will not cover all of the group’s expenses, so they needed outside support from the tech industry.

Alvarico mentioned that at the end of the project, “the students should have a solid idea of how to make a product that could be sold, and they may have the opportunity to apply for a patent.”

Alvarico said that he hand-picked the 12 members, both male and female students in grades 9-12 which included members of the after-school robotics club he advises, have taught robotics to middle school students, and those who participated in his dual enrollment engineering classes for which they are earning college credit through Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill.

After hearing about the grant program last year, Alvarico uttered: “I thought it would be really cool for students from Ygnacio Valley, with limited resources from low socioeconomic backgrounds to have the same opportunities that other students do, so we are making this a vehicle not just to help the community, but for the kids to see what’s outside of California. When I visited MIT last summer, I could really tell that these students could make it there, too. The students will stay at MIT and plan to visit Harvard. We’re going to try to raise some money to go on a college tour to New York and visit Columbia, NYU and Cornell.”

Alvarico explained that the ongoing efforts will empower students from all backgrounds, equipping them with invaluable problem-solving skills that will serve them well throughout their academic journeys, professional pursuits, and personal lives.

Over the next eight months, the Ygnacio Valley High School InvenTeam will build a working prototype that will be showcased at a technical review locally in February, and then again as a final prototype during EurekaFest, an invention celebration taking place June 9-11, 2025, at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Leigh Estabrooks, Lemelson-MIT’s Invention Education Officer said: “The InvenTeams are focusing on solving problems that impact their local communities. Teams are focusing their technological solutions — their inventions — on inequities in health and wellbeing, environmental issues, and safety concerns. These high school students are not just problem-solvers of tomorrow, they are problem solvers today helping to make our world more equitable, healthier, and safer.”

Now in its 21st year, the InvenTeams grants initiative has enabled 18 teams of high school students to earn U.S. patents for their projects. “Intellectual property education is combined with our invention education offerings as part of the Lemelson-MIT Program’s deliberate efforts to remedy historic inequities among those who develop inventions, protect their intellectual property, and commercialize their creations,” Estabrooks added.

“Our work with 4,049 students across 304 different teams nationwide these past 21 years includes: Partnering with intellectual property (IP) law firms to provide pro bono legal support; Collaborating with industry-leading companies that provide technical guidance and mentoring; Providing professional development for teachers on invention education and IP; (continue on page 9)

DECEMBER 21, 2024  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  9

BOOK REVIEW

SIMPOL, The Cookbook

By Rose Cruz Churma

F

ilipinos associate Christmas with faith, family and food.

Some dishes trigger happy memories of past Christmas gatherings when families from far away make it a tradition to come home and partake of food prepared with love and care.

This book is a compilation of contemporary recipes inspired by Filipino cuisine or dishes from around the world that the Diasporic Filipino has adopted to suit his or her tastes.

Food is a huge part of our lives, and when combined with preparing for one of the most important events of the

year, we prepare weeks ahead for that special meal —the traditional noche buena and/ or family Christmas meal.

This book is a handy reference for the newbie hostess or ate or tita recently appointed to take on family traditions of hosting the family gathering.

The dishes are made to suit contemporary tastes with innovative modifications to make them affordable, and easy to prepare without losing its classic flavors that trigger happy memories.

The recipes also acknowledge technological innovations such that, each recipe has a QR code. The

designated chef can scan the code to connect to its how-to-video using one’s smartphone.

Instead of a list of ingredients, the items to be used for the dish are grouped into sets to ensure that the chef is organized and aware of

(CANDID PERSPECTIVES: Will A Dictator’s ....from page 6)

Still, what’s happened in Syria has the potential to reshape the politics of the entire Middle East. The U.S. can’t afford to sit back and do nothing. Now is the time to exert peaceful, diplomatic influence on how Syria maintains stability and goes forward with a new democracy.

Overall, the ouster of the dictator should give Trump a pause.

Let’s hope Trump

who said he would be a dictator on day one learns a lesson from the recent news.

We hear him threaten mass deportations, and the stripping of the Constitution. He talks about gutting the government and cutting back aid to people who need help, forgetting that the United States is not a business. It’s a nation of people, not profits.

The next president

sets the tone for a politics that’s already toxic. Will Trump heal us or dance to the YMCA on the country’s open wound?

He needs to remember the joy in Syria when an autocrat was dumped in the name of freedom and democracy. EMIL GUILLERMO is a journalist and commentator.

His talk show is on www.amok. com.

(AS I SEE IT: Invention ....from page 7)

Assisting teams with identifying resources within their communities’ innovation ecosystems to support ongoing invention efforts; and Publishing case studies and research to inform the work of invention educators and policy makers and build support for engaging students in efforts to invent solutions to real-world problems thus fueling the innovation economy in the U.S., Estabrooks explained.

The Lemelson-MIT Program, the news release mentioned, is a national leader in efforts to prepare the next generation of inventors and entrepreneurs.

Their work focuses on the expansion of opportunities

for people to learn ways inventors find and solve problems that matter to improve lives. Their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion aims to remedy historic inequities among those who develop inventions, protect their intellectual property and commercialize their creations.

One of U.S. history’s most prolific inventors Jerome H. Lemelson and his wife Dorothy founded the Lemelson-MIT Program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1994. It is funded by The Lemelson Foundation and administered by the School of Engineering at MIT, an institution with a strong ongoing

commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for K-14 STEM education.

My friend Joseph told me that if our readers need more information, they can visit Lemelson.MIT. edu or call the Leigh Estabrook Lemelson-MIT Program at (617) 452-2147 or visit leighe@mit.edu https://lemelson.mit.edu/ inventeams.

More power to you and your team, Joseph! You are the man! 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

which ingredients to prep first, and to anticipate the sequencing of preparations.

Chef Tatung, the author of this book, is all about “working outside the box, making cooking traditions more relevant in this day and age, and whipping up heartwarming feasts from basic ingredients you can find in your kitchen”—or ingredients you can readily find at your local Costco.

One such dish is bellychon, the next best thing to the traditional lechon, but one you can roast in your own oven.

This dish is worth trying. It will have the taste and crunch we are familiar with, but without the logistical nightmare of carving out the typical lechon (or refrigerating the carcass for future meals).

Another dish is the “Special Pinoy Spaghetti” which will surely be a hit with the Gen-Zs (and younger) in the group.

The dish uses—aside from the usual ingredients— the sweet Filipino-style spaghetti sauce, banana ketchup, and hot dogs. But the ingredient that baffled me is—condensed milk!

Yes, condensed milk, the sweet mush I use for my coffee, and sweeten my breakfast pan de sal.

Chef Myke “Tatung”

Sarthou’s is also an entrepreneur, author and celebrity TV personality, and social media influencer.

His career in the food industry started in 2010 in Quezon City where he gained a steady clientele. He eventually opened several casual dining restaurants featuring Filipino cuisine.

He is the first to introduce Tausug cuisine in Metro Manila. He was part of the Asia Madrid Fusion in 2017 where he featured the cuisine of Mindanao. He was handpicked to represent the Philippines in Netflix’s street food series where he showcased the street food evolution of Cebu.

The book contains recipes for a range of dishes using chicken, pork, beef, vegetables, seafood, and rice/noodles—but no desserts. Just as well.

After your well-prepared hearty meal, serve fresh fruits and store-bought pies!

The book is available on Amazon or Google Chef Tatung’s presence on YouTube. 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.

10 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE DECEMBER 21, 2024

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS

King Of Kings: A Christmas Reflection

By Seneca Moraleda-Puguan

I

n the darkness, we were waiting Without hope, without light ‘Til from heaven, You came running There was mercy in Your eyes.

These opening lines of the worship song ‘King of Kings’ by Brooke Ligertwood play softly in the background as I write this.

The song, one of my favorites, reminds me of the profound meaning of Christmas—a celebration far beyond twinkling lights and festive traditions.

This year, Christmas feels especially meaningful.

It’s our first in Switzerland, a country that seems straight out of a dream, with its breathtaking Alps, idyllic valleys, and world-renowned chocolates.

Here, we are discovering the joy of Christmas markets—something we missed out on during our years in South Korea.

Strolling through the bustling stalls filled with handcrafted treasures and seasonal treats is a highlight of this season for our family.

Yet, Christmas is not about the markets, the sparkling trees, or even the carols that echo through the streets.

Christmas is here because the King of Kings

has come.

In a world shrouded in darkness, without hope or light, the Savior arrived— not in splendor or majesty but through a virgin, born to a cradle in the dirt.

This truth is as relevant today as it was more than two thousand years ago.

Back then, the people of Israel awaited a rescuer, yearning for freedom from oppression.

Today, many still find themselves crying out for

help—broken, hopeless, and searching for salvation in all the wrong places.

But the answer remains the same: Jesus.

He is here. He has always been here.

He saves. He rescues.

He restores. He heals. He hears every prayer.

In Him, there is freedom, provision, and unshakable hope.

For my family, this Christmas feels special because we’re surrounded by the beauty of Switzerland.

But even if we were in the darkest, most desolate corner of the world—where war rages, typhoons destroy, or hunger prevails—Christmas would remain just as special.

Why? Because the King of Kings has come, and He cares for each of us.

He is Emmanuel— God with us.

And because He is with us, we have nothing to fear. He is our hiding place, our safe refuge. In Him, we find the greatest treasure, the most beautiful gift.

So, whether this season finds you celebrating with joy or wrestling with heartache, may the knowledge of Jesus bring hope, peace, and love to your soul.

May you see His light in your trials and find triumph in His presence.

Even on the coldest night, let your heart be warmed by the truth that the King of Kings is here.

And He’s here for you.

Merry Christmas to you and your family! Joyeux Noël!

MAINLAND NEWS

Filipino Migrants in the US Prepare to Defend Themselves Against Trump’s Mass Deportation Plans Amid Fears and Uncertainty By BAYAN-USA Staff hard jobs people don’t want He also remarked that of undocumented Filipinos

T

he Philippine Embassy and Philippine consulates across the United States found themselves receiving call after call all through December 2, from community members demanding the Philippine government ensure protections for undocumented Filipinos.

These calls were part of a phone barrage action for the Defend Migrant Workers campaign, organized by Filipino grassroots formations, BAYAN-USA and Migrante-USA. From Presdient-elect Donald Trump’s previous violent rhetoric and actions targeting immigrants and Project 2025’s proposals, fears about deportation are at an all-time high.

Alex*, a community organizer of the Defend Mi-

grants Campaign, shared: “During the first Trump presidency, I remember being confused as to why people like me were labeled as criminals, scared even to ask for help, and unsure of what to do.

Those same feelings are coming up for me, my family, and my fellow Filipino undocumented migrants, when our own government tells us to self-deport or won’t even meet with us.

All I’ve done here is go to school and go to work, my mom just works, and we pay taxes. What is it about us undocumented migrants that make us the cause of crisis, when we are contributing the same as U.S. citizens without even getting return benefits from our labor? Without having protections? We take the

because we have to—we left the Philippines not because we wanted to have it easy but because we needed to survive, even if it means being at risk in an unfamiliar country.”

Indeed, the Philippine government and its figureheads in the U.S. have not addressed the community’s worries and understated the severity of the situation for hundreds of thousands.

Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez’ pronouncements for undocumented Filipinos to “follow the rules” and self-deport have led to mass confusion and anxiety when lawyers and community organizations have cautioned communities not to make quick decisions before seeking legal advice.

the 200,000 undocumented Filipinos who may be deported is “not a very large number,” and likely underestimated the number

which could be as many as 1 million. *Alex’s name has been changed for privacy

DECEMBER 21, 2024  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  11

COMMUNITY CALENDAR LET’S ZUMBA | Filipino Community Center | Every Monday starting January 8, 2024 at 6:15pm | FilCom Center, Consuelo Courtyard, 94-428 Mokuola Street, Waipahu | Need to unwind in movement and dance after a long workday? Join the community as we Zumba through the evening. Only $5 per class.

Proceeds go to support these program-types for FilCom Center.

A TRIBUTE TO MR. SINATRA AS PERFORMED BY JIMMY BORGES FEATURING JORDAN SEGUNDO | Hawaii Symphony Orchestra | Hawaii

Theatre, 1130 Bethel Street, Honolulu, Hawaii | January 11, 2025, 7:30pm to 9:30pm | A spectacular tribute to the late Gentleman of Jazz, Jimmy Borges. Jordan Segundo joins the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra to celebrate Jimmy’s iconic legacy and 90th anniversary. Be immersed in classic Sinatra hits. For more information, visit myhso.org.

HAWAII POP CON 2025 | Hawaii Pop Con | Blaisdell Exhibition Hall, 777 Ward Ave., Honolulu, Hawaii | January 11-12, 2025, 10am to 6pm | THawaii Pop Con 2025 is a pop culture convention where fans can gather to celebrate

various aspects of pop culture like comics, collectibles, trading cards, art and more. For more information, visit hawaiipopcon.com.

HAWAII TRIENNIAL 2025 | ALOHA NO | Hawaii Contemporary | Various locations across the state | February 15 to May 4, 2025 | 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.

BIBLE REFLECTIONS

Christmas Points To Jesus

By Bermie Dizon

W

hen we think of Christmas, our minds often drift to December 25th—a day filled with family, songs, gifts, and the warmth of celebration.

In the Philippines, where I am from, Filipinos celebrate Christmas from September to early January.

However, Christmas is not merely a one-day event or a season lasting a few months; it is a daily celebration of the life-changing truth that Christ has come into the world. Christmas is all about Jesus.

Christmas marks the moment when God’s love broke into human history through the birth of Jesus Christ.

The angel’s announcement to the shepherds was not just for that one night; it was a proclamation that reverberates across time and impacts our lives today.

As the Bible reminds us, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11, KJV).

Christmas is a reminder that Christ’s presence is with us continuously, shaping our thoughts, actions, and relationships.

As we reflect on the meaning of Christmas, it’s important to consider that Christmas is celebrated around the world in nations

with different cultures.

While we honor the historic, orthodox calendar, it is equally vital that we embrace the symbols, practices, and customs that reflect the local and cultural context of each community.

Why is this important?

The birth of Jesus Christ is a universal story, but how it is celebrated can and should vary, recognizing the diverse expressions of Christian faith across different cultures.

Each culture brings a unique richness to the season—whether through songs sung for generations in their native tongues, decorations with deep meanings, foods that bring families together, or specific practices that hold spiritual depth within that culture.

These elements embody the Christmas season and are integral to the way people connect with the message of Christ’s birth.

For example, in the Philippines, the “parol” (a brightly lit lantern) is an integral part of the Christmas celebration. These lanterns symbolize the star that pointed to Jesus, guiding the wise men to His birthplace.

Evening worship gatherings are another beloved tradition, reflecting the anticipation of Christ’s coming.

Each nation has its ways of celebrating Christmas, but the important thing is -- all point to Jesus.

This inclusion can transform worship into a more intimate experience, where individuals and families see their stories reflected in the broader narrative of Jesus’ birth.

If we are to truly reflect the beauty and diversity of God’s body, our worship should be as multifaceted as the church globally.

The uniqueness of how each culture honors Christ during Christmas is not a distraction but a celebration of the many ways God reveals Himself to His people.

Recognizing these differences not only fosters unity within the body but also draws people closer to Christ as they feel seen, valued, and included.

Moreover, inviting participation through the sharing of personal or cultural traditions is an opportunity to deepen engagement within the church community.

People are more likely to participate when they see their own history, cus-

toms, and values honored.

This can also be a profound way to evangelize, as those outside the church can witness the warmth, diversity, and inclusive nature of Christ’s love.

It sends a message that the gospel is not bound by one culture or expression, but that Christ is truly for all people, in all places.

By embracing the various cultural expressions of Christmas, we not only highlight the birth of Jesus but also point people to Jesus in ways that resonate deeply with their personal experiences.

This sensitivity to cultural practices is not a di-

vergence from the gospel but an extension of its message—that Christ came for all people.

Remember, God’s love is for everyone. John 3:16-17 reminds us that God sent His Son not to condemn the world, but to save it.

Jesus’ sacrifice was an incredible act of love, and it offers hope to all who seek Him. You can have peace, knowing that through Jesus, salvation is freely given to anyone who believes.

There is no greater hope than this—that God invites all of us to receive eternal life through His Son. Through this, the church can become a vibrant, living testimony of God’s inclusive love, drawing people from all walks of life into a deeper relationship with Him. Let us therefore joyously celebrate Christmas to give all the glory and praise to our Savior Jesus Christ! BERMIE DIZON is a retired pastor of Grace Communion International at Glendora, California, and a former writer for USA Tribune for 9 years.

12 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  DECEMBER 21, 2024