PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017 STATEWIDE COMMUNITY CALENDAR Compiled by AMELIA CASAMINA CABATU

Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a community leader and a familiar face, often hosting community events and celebrations. She is a veteran radio announcer and hosts the “FIL- AM COURIER COMMUNITY HOUR on 1270 KNDI Radio every 1st Sunday of the month. In addition to other affiliations, Amelia is the former Chair of the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii. She owns and operates an adult daycare business and is happily married to Arnold Cabatu. They live in Salt Lake and are blessed with one daughter, Armay. Please send your event information to [email protected] or call her at (808) 282-2033.

OAHU of Hawaii Manoa Campus Center Ballroom. (808) 383-3678 Ailyn Parubrub Lum - (808) For more information call contact persons: $10.00 per person, Free for children 12 yrs 226-1228, Susie Berardy - (808) 392-7083, Chair, Joe Quibuyen, (808) 256-6399 JUNE 16, 2017 old and under open to the Public RSVP by Evelyn Mizukami - (808) 372-6326 Facilitators: Hernando Tan- (808) 372-9269 Picnic on the Pier on the Battleship Missouri May 31, 2017. Contact Information: 808-956- Memorial #MOEdition. 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM; Ford 7348 or email [email protected] JULY 8, 15, & 22, 2017 SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 Island, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii BYOFD (Bring KAbataAN 12th Annual Filipino for Kids Summer Filipino American Maharlika Association of your Own Food and Drinks) or purchase from JUNE 23, 2017 FUN Program 2017. Three (3) Saturdays with Hawaii (FAMAS) Coronation Gala Hilton Gordon Biersch’s pop-up location. Cost for Rotary Club of Kapolei 2017-2018 Installation 5 sessions in July, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Filipino Hawaiian Village Coral Ballroom. 5:30 PM – entrance: Adults $10 pre-sale, $15 at the door, of Officers and Board of Directors Fil-Com Community Center in Waipahu. For participants 12:00 AM; Contact Persons: Romeo Garcia Kids: $5 pre-sale, $10 at the door, for more Center 94-428 Mokuola Street Waipahu, HI 5-12 years old and limited to only 50 368-2312, Raymund Sebastian 799-6080 information and to purchase pre-sale tickets, 6:00 PM Cost: $50.00 for Dinner, participants. First come, first served. Cost: visit www.usmissouri.org/picnic. Entertainment, Door Prizes and Rotary Free. For more information, email fil4kidshi OCTOBER 12-15, 2017 Foundation RSVP to Rev. Alex Vergara, RCK @gmail.com Santa Lucia Academy Aloha Grand Reunion, JUNE 17, 2017 President at 808-551-4303 or email: alex@alex Ala Moana Hotel 410 Atkinson Drive Honolulu, Rizal Youth Leadership Institute 8:00 AM – vergaraphotography.com JULY 8, 2017 Hawaii 10/12 6:00 PM-12:00 AM Hawaiian 4:00 PM Education Building, Leeward Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Night, Opening and Networking Night 10/13 Community College, An initiative of the Rizalian JUNE 24, 2017 (FCCH) Installation of New Officers and Board 9:00 AM-3:00 PM; General Assembly Meeting Youth Council (KAPARIZ) and the Knights of Filipino Cultural Night at the 50th State Fair of Directors. 6:00 PM; Hilton Hawaiian Village 10/13 5:00PM-11:00 PM Luau, 10/14 6:00 PM- Rizal Hawaii Chapter and Supported by the Aloha Stadium 5:00 PM A night of celebrating Resorts, Tapa Ballroom. Contact Persons: 12:00 AM Filipiniana Gala Night, Hibiscus UH-Leeward Philippine Studies program. FREE Filipino culture in Hawaii thru Filipino music, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Brandon Dela Ballroom 10/15 11:00 AM-3:00 PM; Picnic at and open to all high school and college-age fashion and dance! Brought to you by E.K. Cruz 389-0517 Magic Island. Contact Person: Tina Salvador (13-23) youths. To Register online visit http:// Fernandez Shows and 96.7FM KPHI Filipino 808 426-6183. For more detailed information rizalianohana.weebly.com/. For more Radio For more information Contact Person: JULY 10-16, 2017 and to register visit their website: https:// information, contact persons: Dr. Raymund Allan Alvarez (808) 392-8230 11th Ambassadors’ Tour to the Philippines, ronnicah.wixsite.com/slaaloha2017 Liongson (808) 381-4315, Rovy Dipaysa (808) Manila and Davao City Join the annual tour to 799-9885 JUNE 25, 2017 the Philippines with the Philippine Diplomats OCTOBER 20, 2017 Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) and explore the cultural heritage sites of Manila Filipino Community Center, Inc. Bayanihan JUNE 17, 2017 Annual Convention Prince Hote. l8:00 am - and Davao City. Experience the Philippine Gala Fundraiser honoring extraordinary Acts Operation Manong/OMSS (Office of 3:00 PM. For information and particulars call culture, cuisine and entertainment. Starting of Service for more information and Multicultural Student Services) 45th the Contact Persons: Chair, Zhoydell Magaoay: from $1813.00 (hotel twin sharing basis) and sponsorship opportunities contact Fil-Com Anniversary. 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM; University (808) 478-9802, Secretariat: Letecia Ancog price is on a first come first served basis. For Center (808) 680-0451 more information please contact the Philippine Consulate General Honolulu (808) 595-6316 OCTOBER 29, 2017 to 19, Aloha Tours & Travel 845-2218, Philippine Nurses Association of Hawaii Everlasting Services Inc. 841-2881, Nobel (PNAH) Halloween and Masquerade Ball Travel (808) 244-4609, Panda Travel Inc. 732- Fundraising at Ala Moana Hotel, Rumuors 6691 press 3, or Philippine Airlines Honolulu Nightclub 5:00 PM-10:00 PM. Cost: $30.00 (808) 840-1109 heavy pupus and one drink included. Contact Persons: Tina Salvador 426-6183, Ramon AUGUST 26, 2017 Sumibcay 489-7148, Tina Fernandez 721-1721 Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii (PCFH) Recognition Night honoring the 2017 NOVEMBER 4, 2017 Parents/parent of the year, recognizing the Filipino Business Women’s Association 2017 outstanding achievements of graduating (FBWA) presents the Annual Kimona Ball and high school valedictorians in public and private the Business Woman of the Year Awards schools & presentation of the continuing Ceremony Dole Cannery Pomaikai Ballroom. scholar recipients, and announcement of the 735 Iwilei Road, Honolulu, HI. 6:00 PM; Trailblazer of the year award to Mr. Roland Contact Person: Elsa Talavera 358-8964 Casamina. Empress Restaurant 100 North Beretania St. 6:00 PM. We are currently NOVEMBER 17, 2017 searching for the parents/parent of the year Ms. CIAI-SI HAWAII USA Confederation of who sacrificed to send their children (3 Ilocano Association Inc. Samahang Ilocano minimum) to college and/or universities & have Coronation Night, Dole Cannery Pomaikai attained their professional chosen careers. Ballroom. 735 Iwilei Road Honolulu, HI. 6:00 Contact Persons: Janice Sevilla 595-8000, PM; Contact Persons: Romeo Garcia 368- Lina Longboy 421-7381, Leo Rojas Gozar 2312, Joe Quibuyen 256-6399, Trini Sanga 630-6268, Maggie Domingo 783-0068 393-1970

AUGUST 26, 2017 NOVEMBER 18, 2017 Filipino Nurses Organization of Hawaii (FNOH) Nursing Advocates & Mentors Inc. (NAMI) Annual Awards and Biennial Installation 16th Anniversary Gala: Appreciation of Banquet Hilton Hawaiian Village, Coral Volunteer Lecturers, Recognition of new RN’s Ballrooms IV & V. 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM; Contact and graduation of Reviewees. Hale Koa Hotel Person: Stephanie Chung 221- 6212 Banyan Tree Showroom. 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Bea Ramos-Razon (808) 778-6291, SEPTEMBER 2, 2017 Jun Obaldo (808) 277-7495, Bong Curameng Filipiniana Ball and Scholarship Award (808) 383-0135 presented by the Philippine Women’s Association in Hawaii (PWAH). 6:00 PM at the NOVEMBER 19, 2017 Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom Contact International Filipino-American Asian Cultural Persons: Letty Saban 255-9429, Jenny Association of Hawaii’s 6th Year Anniversary Quezon 292-8105, Edna Alikpala 282-3669 Ball Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom Makai. 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Cost: $40.00 SEPTEMBER 16, 2017 donation. Contact Persons: Wilma Ibay 221- Filipino Women’s Civic Club (FWCC) Annual 2407, Linda Jakosalem 679-9511, Becky Maria Clara Ball 2017. Ala Moana Hotel Schmidt 291-4579 Hibiscus Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Rose Galanto 688-4458, Cecilia Villafuerte NOVEMBER 25, 2017 780-4985 Karat 2: More Bling, Fashion Extravaganza. Featuring the Designing Brothers, Jontie & Nicky Martinez and SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 Recognizing Five Icons of the New Filipino Century. Dole Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) Cannery Pomaikai Ballrooms. 735 Iwilei Road Honolulu, Hawaii Open Golf Tournament Royal Kunia Golf HI. 6:00 pm; For more information call Contact Persons: Course 94-1509 Anonui Street, Waipahu, HI. Pygmalion Arts Fund - (808) 630-6268, Manzano Shot Gun: 12:30 pm; $10,000.00 Hole-in- One. Collection- (808) 312-0778 THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 3

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

PUBLISHERS Mary Llanos Cordero David Cordero

MANAGING EDITOR Bennette Espineli Misalucha

DIRECTOR OF DESIGN Armando Dela Cruz Busmente

PRODUCTION MANAGER Alice Llanos Busmente

ASSISTANT EDITOR Radiant Cordero By RADIANT CORDERO COPY EDITOR Danielle Evangelista

PHOTOGRAPHERS/GRAPHICS Brandon dela Cruz Noah Felipe Gabe de Liso Jeff Orig I remember rolling my eyes a lot James Ramos at my dad. COLUMNISTS Edna Alikpala Then, I got smart, I rolled my Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Jesse Bacon II eyes after he left the room. Nancy Bernal Cesar Bonilla But, the weird thing is, all that Alice Llanos Busmente Amelia Casamina Cabatu stuff my dad taught me when I was a Anabel Gasmen Cabebe Dr. Rickie Camara small kid — that stuff I would roll my Dr. Patricia Halagao Kristian Lei eyes at — is the same stuff I recite to Dr. Niki Libarios Zeny Muyot myself often, if not on a daily basis Angie Santiago Perfecto Yasay Jr. as an adult. I also am fully aware that

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS it will be even more prevalent as I Conrad Abuel Ric Agnes grow older. Paul Alimbuyao Ria Baldevia We learn a lot from our dads — Eriza Bareng Marnelli Joy Basilio even if that wasn’t their intention — Bernie Caalim Randy Cortez and there are some lessons that stick Radiant Cordero with a person for a lifetime. Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus Dads are full of wisdom that we Brandon dela Cruz mantras off to others who are in need Also, luckily, my dad is one dad my comfort zone. Whenever fear and Christian Evangelista overlook and take for granted. It’s a Imelda Gasmen of encouragement, whether they are who does not shy away from the worry take over, he is always quick Veronika Geronimo damn good thing they tell us the Leo Gozar friends, coworkers, or even a infamous and inescapable to dispel it from our minds, mouths, Ben Gutierrez same stuff over and over; otherwise, Lalaine Ignao seatmate on the airplane. To all the dads out there, keep and mannerisms. Kathleen Lee we may never really learn it. Out of three children, I am the telling your kids stuff they don’t want He has shown me and given an Carmela Minaya Gladys Quinto Marrone When it comes to pep talks, my eldest child, but, I am also the only to hear. They don’t realize it now, but, example of what hard work looks like. Gladys Menor John Pagaragan dad would nail it every single time. daughter to my parents. they’ll need it all later. He has shown by example the Paola Rodelas Judy Relosimon Maybe because he was a coach, In light of that, I was always the And when you realize you taught type of confidence that a person Sandra Sagisi Nicole Velasco maybe it was because we were young child that was extra loud, extra them everything they need to know should have. I too hope I can exude Jason Ubay Michi Villaruz and it was easy to say it through extravagant, and extra rebellious. in life, even if you’re no longer the same type of confidence in my NEIGHBOR ISLAND BUREAU stories or mantras. Since I was a kid, Therefore, I received extra pep around, they’ll be grateful. life. Maui Kit Zulueta he was always trying to teach my talks which required a ton of patience Thankfully, my dad is still alive… He has shown me the Jeremy Zane brothers, cousins, and me things if one was speaking to me. And he’s still telling me the same stuff opportunities that exist in front of me, Big Island Mil Asuncion about life through repeating short, Luckily, my dad is never one to over and over and over…. but, at the same time, he has left the Jane Clement Dr. Margarita Hopkins easy-to-remember mantras over and have a temper or get riled up Today, I am just 27 years old and decision up to me in terms of which

Kauai over again. (although, I would still get riled up at this tender age, my dad has taught path to choose. Virgie Cruzada Liza Trinidad The eye-rolling would ensue, because I was receiving yet another me a lot of things that I still have a Thanks, dad, for all these Marynell Valenzuela but, now I find myself passing these talk). hard time grasping. lessons and the lessons to come. ADVERTISING SALES Marivic Aldaya My dad has instilled in me to stop Happy Father’s Day! Mary Cordero Annabel Cabebe being afraid and to step outside of Florence Tan McCollom Lydia Kamiya Joni Redick-Yundt Rudy Bautista Marynel Valenzuela

CIRCULATION Florence Tan (Oahu) Ron Oshiro (Leeward Oahu) David Cordero (Maui) Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai) Milli Asuncion (Big Island)

LEGAL COUNSEL Alfredo Evangelista, Esq. Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.)

THE FIL-AM COURIER is published twice a month by OAHU RELOCATION SERVICES located at 2221 Liliha St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and other material submitted. Repro- duction of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am courier is forbidden without written permission. All photos submitted become the property of the Fil- Am Courier. Telephone: 808.595.8787 Facsimile: 808.595.6883 E-Mail: [email protected] www.filamcourier.net MEMBER HFAMC Federation of Filipino American Media Associations of the United States and Canada FFAMAS Hawaii Filipino American Media Council All rights reserved printed in the u.s.a © PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017

By LALAINE IGNAO

ABOUT OUR COVER

This beautiful picture of the Halagao family evokes great positive feelings of love and familial ties even as we celebrate Fatherhood in this issue of the Fil-am Courier.

Left to right: Jordan, AJ, Patricia and Marissa Halagao of Honolulu, Hawaii.

Photo Credit: Julia Sieber of Sieber Studio. “While my wife and children are the position of Manager of Father’s Day was my first one. it.’ And 100% of the time, when I my top priority, it’s very important Corporate and Community Marissa was just a day old when gaze across the audience I will spot Cover concept and design by Noah to me that I fulfill my responsibilities Advancement at HEI, as well as we brought her home from the my Daddy in the back, getting Felipe or OrigMedia. Mahalo to Jeff at work and my commitments to the Executive Vice President of the HEI hospital on Father’s Day. Since coffee at the beverage table, ready Orig of OrigMedia. Both Jeff and Noah community. I love my job and I Charitable Foundation. This then, as a father, I’ve had the time to watch the show. I can always can be reached at www.Origmedia.com treasure my community service. In foundation supports programs that of my life.” count on my Daddy to be there and or by calling 808 447 9559. my capacities at HEI and my board foster educational excellence, Despite his busy schedule, put me in front of himself. He service at nonprofits, I get to help economic growth, environmental Halagao consistently makes time supports me by just simply being make Hawaii a better place. It’s sustainability, and community for his family. 12-year-old Marissa there.” Her 10-year-old brother, easy to make time for work when development. Within the Filipino Halagao shared, “Whenever Jordan, also agrees, stating that you love what you’re doing and you community, HEI Charitable there’s a big school event I’m “Daddy is very involved. He always have the support of your family.” Foundation has supported the involved in, 75% of the time Daddy coaches me in soccer, baseball and Born in Illocos Sur, Avelino Filipino Community Center, Filipino would say, ‘Hmmm I have to get to basketball.” Jimeno “AJ” Halagao, Jr. grew up Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, the office or to a doctor’s This father makes a conscious in Washington D.C. and moved to Operation Manong and Fil4Kids. appointment or I have a breakfast effort to drive his children to school Hawaii in 2000. He currently holds Although this all may seem a lot meeting . . . but I’ll see if I can make every morning, even if it can already, Halagao’s work does not end there. Outside of his rewarding career, Halagao also volunteers for a variety of organizations, as chairman for the City & County of Honolulu’s Grants-in-Aid Advisory Commission and as president of Hawaii Cares. “Additionally, I’m on the board of directors of some truly wonderful community organizations, including Filipino Community Center, After-School All-Stars, Aloha Medical Mission, UH Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship, Hawaii Presidential Center Initiative, and Hawaii Catholic Community Foundation,” Halagao added. “My children, Marissa and Jordan, mean the world to me, and in anything I do, they are my biggest inspirations. My favorite THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 5

sometimes be a struggle getting everyone ready for the day. “But once we’re on the road, I really enjoy it. It’s a time for the three of us to be together, and a wonderful way to begin my day.” As mentioned before, Halagao takes the time to attend his children’s events and spend time with them, taking the children out and sharing their passion for sports through activities and events. This, of course, becomes possible with the help of his other half, former Board of Education member and UH Professor Patricia Espiritu Halagao, who recently accepted a position where she will chair the hectic than ours. We make it work, Department of Curriculum Studies but it takes a team effort.” Halagao at the UH College of Education. shared that in order to keep a Together, this powerhouse couple marriage alive, his guiding works with constant coordination principles include compassion, and cooperation to balance compromise, listening and learning everything in their life. as well as the most important of all, “Because her scholarship was love. groundbreaking, her career was a To Halagao, even though he top priority in our household – more holds many titles in his professional important than mine. I was going career and outreach life, the titles to do everything I could to support that mean the most to him include her career. Whether she had to “Father, Husband and Son.” He teach an evening class or travel to shares, “My careers and my AJ and Patricia with their children, Marissa and Jordan. the U.S. mainland to attend an companies change. But I will always education conference or take extra be Marissa and Jordan’s father, time for her research and writing, I Patricia’s husband, and the son of would make sure I was home to Avelino and Concepcion Halagao.” take care of our family, and provide her the time that she needs.” Earlier this month, Patricia was Lalaine Ignao moved to Oahu in elevated to full professor at UH. 2016 with hopes of engaging with Because both sides of the the Filipino community. A graduate extended families live on the of Seattle University with a degree mainland, the couple always syncs in Strategic Communications, she their schedules to make sure one enjoys writing lifestyle, cultural and of them, or a family friend, can help profile stories along with reflective out with caring for the children and pieces that showcase her their basic needs. “Ironically, our vulnerable and honest self. During children’s schedules – with her free time, you can find her practices, games, art, music and dabbling in art projects, graduate hula lessons – can be even more school or in wanderlust.

Patricia Halagao PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017 Cultural Differences in Marriage Is Not a Deterrent By LALAINE IGNAO to Happiness

Cultural differences never crossed Timothy Lum’s mind when he began dating his wife 42 years ago, let alone when they got married. “I just thought that I was dating this beautiful gal and we liked each other. I didn’t look at it as this Chinese boy dating this Filipino girl.” Instead of becoming immersed in his Chinese culture, Lum’s parents brought him up with Catholic values and traditions. The extent of his cultural experience came from his mother speaking Chinese and grew up with the traditional fireworks on New Years. Even then, he felt like the tradition When Lum and his wife, Ailyn, The couple’s family comprises of “When my kids were young, we our children or one of her represented more of a Hawaiian started their family, cultural four kids, three boys and one girl. did whatever we could to take care girlfriends or cousins. It’s sort of a custom than Chinese. “My mom tradition and values did not have a All the boys, Christopher, Mitchell of them. When they got a little older family affair.” This also became would cook some Chinese food but huge impact on raising their and Daniel, have graduated from and started to play sports, we another aspect of how Lum’s for the most part, growing up my children. “Our philosophy is that we college and their daughter, supported them and became their children learned more about their attitude was more of ‘I’m in Hawaii.’ want to raise our kids to be good Marissa, just finished her second transportation and, whenever I Filipino heritage, along with Ailyn I didn’t have much of a Chinese kids who could contribute to the year of schooling at the University could, coach them.” Lum embodies sharing stories about her father identity even though I knew I was community. In terms of culture, we of Hawaii but will transfer to the type of father who consistently and his life growing up in the Chinese. I just felt like I was a would expose them to their cultural Occidental University in Los tried to stay active and present in Philippines. regular boy growing up in Hawaii.” background whenever we could.” Angeles and plans to study biology. his children’s lives. “I was always Out of all the cross cultural the type of person where, even challenges that Lum could possibly though my job needs me to work a go through, he points out the whole week, I always have the language barrier between him and attitude whenever I finished work his in-laws and understanding their that I’m going straight home Ilocano accent when speaking to because I have four kids and a wife him. “My oldest son actually picked at home. I don’t want to go to the up the language and would be my bar and drink with my coworkers. I translator. Whenever they spoke in want to go home and spend time Ilocano, I would pull him aside and with my family.” ask him, ‘Chris! What are they The biggest aspect of the talking about?’” children’s upbringing that relates to At the end of the day, all that Filipino culture comes from the fact matters to Lum consists of sharing that Ailyn and Tim provided them his life with his family and enjoying with a Catholic upbringing. Each life together. Regardless of their child became an altar server and cultural differences, Lum and his went through the whole regimen, wife choose to look beyond that receiving the sacraments up to and focus on their values and Confirmation. Along with passing morals as a couple and as a family. down their Catholic upbringing to the children, the Lum family takes the time to visit Ailyn’s mother’s home for dinner. “It’s not hardcore Lalaine Ignao moved to Oahu in Filipino food, it’s local Hawaiian 2016 with hopes of engaging with food. But she does make adobo, the Filipino community. A graduate pinakbet and lumpia, which is the of Seattle University with a degree best.” As his wife got older, Ailyn in Strategic Communications, she would became more active in the enjoys writing lifestyle, cultural and Filipino community and participate profile stories along with reflective in a variety of organizations and pieces that showcase her events. “I support her and she vulnerable and honest self. During invites me to all the events but her free time, you can find her she’s okay if I say no every once dabbling in art projects, graduate in awhile. She would take one of school or in wanderlust. THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 7

My Dad – By ANGIE DYTIOCO SANTIAGO

An “angel” is defined as a person of exemplary conduct or virtue. So it’s no wonder that my An Absolute Dad was named “Angel” by my perceptive Lola Maria Sapitan. Growing up, my Dad always taught us that, “Charity Begins at Home”. This was evident of his manifest love, devotion, and Angel! sacrifice for his family. Everything my Dad has done was always for his family. Dad and my Mom Rubing have life, but felt blessed and not at all been sweethearts since their disadvantaged. We did everything teenage years. At the age of 23, as a family – from growing our own Dad joined the U.S. Navy. Five vegetables, fishing, crabbing, years later, Dad received an going to the beach, picking fruits honorable discharge, and he and around the island, and helping our Mom got married three weeks later. Dad with his yard maintenance and In 1965, Dad left his family janitorial services business. We In 1971, Angel Dytioco graduated from the University of Hawaii with a BS in behind in the Philippines in order took family trips to the Philippines Agriculture. to pursue a college education from to visit relatives and reconnected the University of Hawaii using his with our culture. My siblings and I doing laundry, cleaning the house, so they can have a better life in G.I. Bill benefits. He became a full- took music lessons and soon the and helping out with her daily America. time student at the University of Dytioco Rondallia was formed, and health needs. My Dad exemplified the virtues Hawaii, living on a $250-a-month we entertained at events and Although my Dad taught us of being kind to others, giving back veteran’s stipend most of which he functions. that “charity begins at home,” his to the community, treating people sent home to his family. To help My Dad rarely asked for much, charity went far beyond our home. with respect, overcoming make ends meet, my Dad joined the and anytime he was given any type It included helping out relatives obstacles, and practicing daily his Angel Dytioco proudly served the Peace Corps and became a of gift, his response would always U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1961. back in the Philippines. Dad also belief that “Charity begins at home.” Tagalog language instructor and be, “It’s EXACTLY what I want!” The paved the way by petitioning my That’s why my Dad’s given name taught on the Big Island and only thing that he did ask for that one another and their constant maternal grandfather and my truly fits him — he is an absolute Molokai. At the age of 38, Dad truly made my Dad beam with pride devotion to their family. Mom’s six siblings and their families Angel! graduated from the U.H. with a and joy was for his four children – My Dad retired from the Bachelor of Science degree in Noel, Leo, Solly, and myself - to Federal Government with 30 years Angie Dytioco Santiago, our Gathering Place columnist, is a U.H. Manoa graduate. Agriculture and became the first of graduate from college. of service. Recently, at the age of Angie is currently a Governor of the United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH), the his siblings to graduate from In the 56 years of my parents’ 83, he took an “early” retirement Recording Secretary of the Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii (BCAH), and the college. marriage and their 63 years of life from the City & County of Honolulu Assistant Treasurer for the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH). She In 1972, Dad petitioned for his together, my parents never failed to spend more time with my Mom. served as an Assistant Auditor for the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating family to come to Hawaii. Growing Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) from 2015-2016, as 1st Vice President of the to show their unconditional love for Nothing is more gratifying to my Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) from 2013 to 2014, and as BCAH President up in Whitmore, we lived a simple Dad than to care for her–cooking, from 2010 to 2012. She is the daughter of Angel &RubingDytioco and is married with two sons. She enjoys photography and participating in cultural and social activities and events.

The Dytioco's family trip to San Francisco in 2014: Angie Santiago, Angelo Family picture of Angel and Rubing Dytioco's 50th Anniversary in 2011. Dytioco, Rubing and Angel Dytioco, Noel Dytioco, and Solly Dytioco. PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017

By ATTY. RHODA YABES ALVAREZ, Esq.

The issue of legal custody and physical custody over a child when parents divorce or partners separate is an emotional one. This is especially so when parties cannot our child our priority. Recently, my coordination between both parents, and child to stay in touch and share time with the long-distance parent communicate, which is the main ex-wife has taken a promotion which it can be done. information while physically apart. every other Christmas school break, reason for separation. However, requires her to move to the mainland. While it is true that the parent With online access and every other spring break and for there are workable solutions when I am not objecting to our child leaving who is away from the child is limited information sharing, the long distance extended periods during summer the best interest of the child becomes but I now that I am confronted with by geographical distance, work parent can be on top of the breaks. The long distance parent will the standard. Consider this scenario the prospect of separation, I wonder schedule, variance in time zones, information regarding the child’s care also get to spend time with the child of our long distance father. how I can maximize parenting my school schedules, budgetary providers such as doctors, dentists, when in the same locale without child while we are apart. How is this constraints, among other teachers, tutors, counselors, disrupting the child’s regular Question: My wife and I have done in a legal setting? considerations, nevertheless, coaches and instructors. It is ideal schedule. been divorced and we have a child. available technology allows for for information about the child to be Separation is a necessary In the divorce decree, we both Answer: various modes of interaction between shared between parents when both consequence of divorce. A healthy agreed to joint legal custody and joint When the parent and the child parent and child while apart, such as have the best interest of the child perspective towards time sharing physical custody over our child. This live on different islands or in different Skype, Messenger, text, emails and despite the separation. Decisions can provide a workable solution and arrangement worked for us having states, time sharing between the non telephone calls, on a regular or set can be arrived at with consensus best results for all parties involved. both agreed to live in the same area custodial parent and the custodial time. Various forms of social media including the child. For actual cases and near our child’s school with our parent can prove tricky. However, also allow an easy access for parent Usually, in a case where a child’s controversy, there is no substitute for decision to make the best interest of with proper communication and parents live apart, the child will spend the advice of a qualified attorney.

(Source: 2010 Hawaii Divorce Manual, Volume 1, Child Custody, page 7)

Rhoda Yabes Alvarez, Esq. is an attorney with offices in Honolulu and the Philippines. She is licensed to practice law in Hawaii, New York and the Philippines. Atty. Yabes Alvarez can be reached at 1-808-589-7380 or by email at rmyalvarez@ filamlaw.com. Her Honolulu office is located at 905 Umi St. Suite 204, Honolulu, HI 96819. Visit her website at www.filamlaw.com.

For Advertising information, please call 595.8787 THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 9

STATE FAIR MARKS 50TH YEAR Celebrates Filipino Cultural Night on June 24

Kristian Lei The lineup includes the following the Filipino culture blends into the performers: Koro Filipino/Haranistas, whole fabric of Hawaiian culture, The Techniqlings Crew, Yssa West, and so, then decided to partner with The Bulacan Circle, Anna Davide, 96.7FM KPHI Radio in putting Jezbhel Leano, Julius Mina, together an event in time for the 50th Dabawenyos of Hawaii, The A-Trust State Fair." Band and Kristian Lei. "We invite everyone to come Organizer of the event, Allan and check it out on June 24th. We The State Fair will mark a Cultural Night at the 50th State Fair Ngayon" highlighting the mix of Alvarez is excited about bringing the hope this event will be a success so significant milestone this year with its on Saturday, June 24, 2017 from traditional and modern culture and cultural show to a mainstream that it could become a permanent 50th year anniversary of bringing fun 5pm to 9pm at the Aloha Stadium will feature a full line up of audience: "This evening will be a offering at each year's state fair for and excitement to the families of Fairgrounds. entertainment to include Filipino tribute to the Filipino culture in Hawaii the next 50 years," Alvarez added. Hawaii. The Fil-Am Courier is the music, Filipino traditional fashion as this will be the first time in the For more information on the To celebrate the occasion, EK exclusive Filipino print media partner. show and Filipino dances. There will history of the State Fair that an event event, please contact Allan Alvarez Fernandez Shows and KPHI 96.7FM The theme of the Filipino Cultural be a mix of Tagalog, Ilocano and like this will happen. We commend at 808 392 8230. Filipino Radio are hosting a Filipino Show is "Then and Now; Noon at English entertainment as well. E.K Fernandez for recognizing how PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017

IMMIGRATION, THE AMERICAN DREAM, AND INJUSTICE:

By DANIEL B. EISEN, PhD Lessons from Lola Associate Professor of Sociology Pacific University

“My Family’s Slave” written by these debates. Instead I seek to be even more unsettling that Pulitzer prize winning author Alex add another layer of complexity to individuals who immigrated to the Tizon was recently The Atlantic’s these discussions by arguing that United States for something cover story. As a masterfully written the widespread reaction to Tizon’s “better” struggled financially and piece of prose it sent shockwaves narrative may be a result of the fact continued to enslave Pulido. throughout communities and has that it presents us with a realistic Eudocia Pulido forces us to see the triggered important conversations image of capitalism, immigration, dark reality of the American Dream; in Filipino, Filipino-American, and and the unfulfilled promise of the we are forced to acknowledge that non-Filipino communities across American Dream that we, as a life in the United States is not the globe. Each community’s country, do not want to talk about. always better. We are forced to knowledge of and interactions with Conversations about structural acknowledge that inhumane the Philippines and Filipino culture issues are often diverted toward practices like slavery exist in the has led communities to focus on overly simplistic cultural United States. Ultimately, it different parts of Tizon’s story and arguments. For example, demonstrates that our conceptua- come to divergent conclusions discussions about Katulong are lizations of the Philippines and the about the narrative and the issues often derailed by arguments that United States, as well a sour embedded within it. Some are using frame this practice as uniquely rationales for migration, are the story to define Katulong culture Filipino. This is a distraction that inherently flawed. and question why Filipinos support leads to essentialist questions such Instead of providing concrete this practice. Others are debating as “what is wrong with Filipinos” answers within this article, I seek whether it was ethical for Tizon to and “how can Filipinos have such continues to inform, the movement social mobility in the United States. to raise more questions and focus on his experience and a primitive culture”, harkening back of Filipinos throughout the global Many of my research participants encourage others to do the same. minimize Eudocia Tomas Pulido’s to the ways that colonizers labor markets that include paid, developed their understanding of By applying the sociological voice, while others are debating depicted Filipinos. Cultural unpaid, and slave labor markets. the Philippines through their imagination to Tizon’s narrative, we whether we are too eager to practices are not ahistorical and, Situating Pulido’s exploitation within family’s immigration stories. These see that it is about more than just vindicate Tizon for his complicity in therefore, Katulong must be these structures forces us to stories juxtapose the Philippines his family or Filipino culture and Pulido’s enslavement. Still others understood in relationship to confront that her experience is not with the United States, framing the provides insights into larger are wondering if Tizon did enough colonization and capitalism. a Filipino issue; rather, it is a global Philippines as a place to escape histories and social structures. to help Lola and if the Tizon family Although capitalism is often issue that disproportionately and the United States as a haven Making these connections enables should provide the Palido family touted as a source of innovation, affects Filipinos in the Philippines. for growth. These narratives often us to ask the critical questions that with reparations. All of the progress, and economic Framed as a problem of global ignore the positive aspects of the help us move toward a more just conversations are important as advancement, capitalism is also capitalism, everyone becomes Philippines and the marginalization world. they encourage us to ask critical linked with high rates of poverty in connected to Pulido’s exploitation that Filipinos experience in the questions about modern day marginalized groups. The history of and must confront how we all United States. Pulido’s and the slavery. In writing the following, I colonization and capitalism in the contribute to the global capitalist Tizon family’s experiences Dr. Daniel Eisen grew up in Ewa Beach do not seek to answer the Philippines has created high levels project that enables the contradict this narrative. According and graduated from Campbell High questions that have emerged from of poverty that has informed, and contemporary enslavement of to Tizon, prior to migrating to the School before attending Pacific Uni- hundreds of thousands of Filipinos. United States, his family employed versity, Oregon to earn his BA in So- ciology. After living in Oregon for four This, however, is more difficult than a common trope about migration years, he returned to Hawaii to earn removing ourselves from the and told Pulido that things would his PhD in Sociology from the Univer- problem and simply blaming Filipino be better in America. In the United sity of Hawaii at Manoa, where his culture for the existence of States, Pulido remained enslaved, doctoral work examined young adults’ Katulong. never received her promised development of a Filipino ethnic iden- Furthermore, “My Family’s allowance, and was only able to tity in Hawaii. Daniel Eisen is currently an Assistant Professor of Sociology Slave” forces us to confront our visit her home later in life. As and Assistant Dean of Strategic Ini- beliefs about immigration and the unsettling as it may be to accept tiatives at Pacific University in Forest unrealistic depiction of upward that modern slavery exists, it may Grove, Oregon. THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 11

By NANCY BERNAL

Once upon a time four teenage friends (Marlene Baldueza, Gissele Tejada, Joanne Banda and Kristina Babaran) started singing together for fun at the “Al Waterson and You” talent showcase at The Fisherman’s Wharf in Honolulu. Their first song “I Will Follow Him” received a fantastic response and they decided to pursue a professional career as a musical group named Forte’ in 1994. This beginning lead to a journey in the entertainment business that lasted for nine years. Under the Forte' - 2017 Left to right: Gissele, Joanne, Kristina and Marlene management of Nancy Bernal, Forte’ recorded three full length CDs, a CD For Kristina, winning the Grand Prize musical sisterhood for life”. Gissele Through the years, Forte’ is instructors, choreographers and a single and their songs were included in the nationally-televised talent replied “Love and friendship forever”. grateful to God and to the people who special mahalo to their fans. on numerous CD compilations. They competition “Destination Stardom” Joanne’s answer was “Experiencing supported them in pursuing their The Forte’ fairy tale will come performed throughout the islands of was a highlight. All four members and creating life long memorable dreams. They would like to thank alive again on June 24 at their Hawaii, on the mainland and in Guam agree that winning that competition moments with my musical DNA their families, Nancy Bernal, Al reunion concert and they will live and Saipan. Some of their was one of their biggest sisters”. And Kristina summed it up Waterson, Chris Hubbard, Darryl Hill, “happily ever after”. performance credits are concerts achievements. They also realize the with “Being a member of Forte’ means Dave Tucciarone, Elan Markos, with “Destiny’s Child”, “N’Sync”, “98 impact they had on the people of forever friendships”. Jason Lent, sponsors, vocal Degrees” and more. Hawaii, young and old, with their role After fifteen years of not model image influencing children and performing together, the fairy tale teens to strive to reach their goals now continues with a Forte’ reunion and bringing joy to all ages with their performance on June 24 at a concert hit tunes. presented by Tantriq Entertainment The four talented girls that sang and Ray Jr. at The Aloha Tower together in the nineties are now four Marketplace called “Stuck in the 90’s” ladies with individual careers and where they will perform one more they are busy raising their children. time with two nationally-acclaimed Marlene Markos is married to elan groups, “Shai” and “All-4-One”. and has two daughters. Gissele Tickets are available at Tejada is happy with her boyfriend, www.tmrevents.com Colin, and has one son. Joanne The memorable moments from Bonilla is married to David and has their days as one of the Top Musical one daughter. And Kristina Acidera Groups in Hawaii are still instilled in is married to Mark and has four sons. their hearts. For Gissele, Joanne and When presented with the Marlene, one of their favorite question, “What does being a memories is performing for member of Forte’ mean to you?”, thousands of students at the each member expressed their D.A.R.E. program at Aloha Stadium. feelings. Marlene said “Forte is a

Forte' from the 90's Left to right: Joanne, Gissele, Marlene and Kristina. PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017

By DR. AL SISON

What do you tell a person in her The Invitation even when it’s not pretty every day. senior age of life who is 83 years old, By Oriah Mountain Dreamer And if you can source your life with no limited physical challenges, from its presence. “It doesn’t interest me what you do for a living. is financially stable, and emotionally I want to know if you can live with failure, I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of present but sits across from you with yours and mine, meeting your heart’s longing. a blunted and stooped indifference? and still stand on the edge of the lake It doesn’t interest me how old you are. The person lives with her and shout to the silver of the full moon, I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool children, but “the kids are too old for ‘Yes!’ for love, me to baby sit, even my grandkids It doesn’t interest me for dreams, work all day.” to know where you live or how much money you have. for the adventure of being alive. The individual I saw in my I want to know if you can get up It doesn’t interest me what planets are squaring your moon. professional capacity, wakes up after the night of grief and despair, I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow, every day with no sense of being, no weary and bruised to the bone, If you have been opened by life’s betrayals motivating force to challenge the mind and do what needs to be done or have become shriveled and closed other than “should I eat something to feed the children. from fear of further pain! or just go back to sleep or pull the It doesn’t interest me who you know, I want to know if you can sit with pain, weeds outside.” or how you came to be here. mine or your own, What I said to this patient in I want to know if you will stand without moving to hide it fifteen minutes elicited some in the centre of the fire or fade it feedback. I found out she was a with me or fix it. retired nurse, worked 40 years in a and not shrink back. I want to know if you can be with joy, pediatric hospital with intense and It doesn’t interest me where or what or with whom mine or your own; challenging cases; three children, you have studied. if you can dance with wildness nine grandchildren, a few still live in I want to know what sustains you and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes her home but are “too busy” to have from the inside, without cautioning us to a meal with her. when all else falls away. be careful, Concerned siblings and a niece I want to know if you can be alone be realistic, from a neighbor island accompanied with yourself; remember the limitations of being a human. the patient. The goal was to receive and if you truly like the company you keep It doesn’t interest me if the story you are telling me some medical / behavioral health in the empty moments.” advice to help curb the symptoms no is true. one could believe she was I want to know if you can presenting that day. disappoint another So what did I say to the wise, Sometimes life is really about timing, What did I say? Before I tell you, to be true to yourself; sageful, but saddened eyes of this 83 listening, and empathy. If you can bear the accusation of betrayal let me share the central themes of year old. I asked her: “what is your Aloha, Peace, Mabuhay, Amen. and not betray your own soul. this poem which guided me in my purpose?” – Dr Al. If you may have further If you can be faithless counselling. She looked up with fire spark in questions please do not hesitate to and therefore trustworthy. her eyes and begin to say her peace. contact me via my website: I want to know if you can see beauty www.alspsy.com

Alfred A. Sison, MA, LMFT, PsyD; “Dr. Al” is a licensed clinical psychologist with a subspeciality license in marriage and family therapy. He services individuals, couples, and familes through the therapeutic process, and maintains a private practice in Honolulu, HI. He holds a Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD), Clinical Psychology degree from Argosy University, Hawaii Campus and a Master of Arts (MA), Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy Specialty from the American School of Professional Psychology, Hawaii Campus. He completed his undergraduate studies with a degree in Bachelor of Arts (BA), Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley. THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 13

Summer is here and its time for fun in the sun. Nothing says summer like firing up the grill outdoors and cooking some your favorite dishes. Before you get your grill heated up, here are a few safety tips. DO’s DON’TS • Use your grill at least 10 feet away from • Never turn on a gas grill while the grill your house. Never use the grill indoors, lid is closed. It causes gas to build up including garages or porches. The grill inside your grill, and when you do light it should be on a flat and even surface. Also, and open it, a fireball can explode in your try to keep home décor away from the grill, face. as these items could become fuel for a fire. • Never leave a grill unattended. Fires • Clean your grill regularly. Each time the double in size every minute. Plan ahead so SUMMER grill’s fired up, let the grate heat up over that all of your other food prep chores are intense heat for about five to ten minutes. done and you can focus on grilling. This will burn away any food, bacteria, or • Never overload your grill with food. This grease that may be remaining. Once the applies especially fatty meats. The basic SKIN CARE grill stops smoking, use a grill brush to reason for this tip is that if too much fat scrape away any left over grime from the drips on the flames at once, it can cause a Summer means spending more time out in the sun. Too much sun can grates. If you allow grease to build up, it large flare-up that could light nearby things damage the skin and often times lead to sunburn. Sunburns are caused can lead to flare ups. on fire. by UV radiation rather than sun’s heat. It doesn’t have to be a hot day • Keep a spray bottle of water handy. If to get sunburn. Here are some tips and ways to treat getting burned by there is a minor flare-up you can spray it the sun! with water to instantly calm it down. The bonus is that water will not harm your food. Here’s How to Treat a Sunburn: 1. Get out of the sun. Staying in the sun after the burn is present will make it worse. 2. A sunburn could seem worse the next day, and it can get worse before it gets better. Be on the lookout for blisters. Blistering MANGO TIME! means that the skin is completely damaged and complications It’s Mango Season. If you have a mango tree in your are likely. If the area with blisters is bigger than one entire arm back yard or just love mango, try this refreshing and or the whole abdomen, you may need to seek medical care to healthy smoothie, perfect for breakfast. Breakfast is the treat the burn. most important meal of the day. It’s the meal that gets 3. Take a cool shower or bath to soothe the pain. everything started, including your metabolism. Yet so 4. Apply aloe or another cooling agent to help soothe the pain. many people skip it! 5. While the burn is healing, wear loose fitting clothing. Ingredients: 1 1 banana Jordan Segundo is most noted as the first contestant from Hawaii and the first 2 ½ cup orange juice Filipino-American selected as a Top 32 finalist on season two of American Idol. 3 ½ frozen pineapple Since then, he has made a name for himself as one of Hawaii’s top entertainers. 4 ¼ cup plain greek yogurt In addition to singing, he has branched out into acting and television hosting. He 5 half a fresh mango is currently the weekend weather anchor and a reporter for KITV4 Island News. 6 1 scoop Burt’s Bees™ Protein + Healthy Aside from performing, Segundo is also very active in the community. He generously Radiance - Vanilla volunteers his time and talents to worthy causes and non-profit organizations, 3 ice cubes such as the Ronald McDonald House Charities, the D.A.R.E. Program and the Fur Angel Foundation. When not performing, Jordan enjoys working out, cooking and Add everything to the blender, blend until smooth. hiking. To contact Jordan Segundo, visit his website at www.jsegundo.com PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017 FCCH’s 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf By ANGIE DYTIOCO SANTIAGO Tournament a Success!

For the past 23 years, the Santiago, Vanessa Tan, Alex annual Filipino Chamber of Vergara, Conrad Abuel, and Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) Jonathan Agas. Scholarship Golf Tournament has If you are a golf enthusiast, been generating funds to award mark your calendar for next year’s outstanding scholarship recipients. FCCH’s Golf Tournament which will This year’s golf tournament held at be held on April 6, 2018, at the Ewa the Ewa Beach Golf Course drew 82 Beach Golf Course. players and brought together local business and community leaders for 2017 Golf Tournament winners: a day of networking while enjoying First Place: fresh air and friendly competition on Francis Robiniol the greens.The players were treated Orlino Ancheta to lunch which included an all-you- Noland Thompson can-eat sushi bar. The event ended 2nd Place: a perfect day with a buffet dinner and Ray Man awards ceremony. Profits raised Sean McDonnel from this tournament were used to Joey Siera award 9 scholarship recipients 3rd Place: ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. Jessie Magaoay This year’s golf tournament Tex Balmaceda committee was led by FCCH Joe Quibuyen President Bernadette Fajardo and 23rd Winner: PAL District Sales Representative May Thompson, FCCH President Bernadette Fajardo, Round Trip to Manila winner Tex chaired by Eddie Agas. The Mel Kahele Balmaceda, and FCCH Immediate Past President Sam Acosta. committee included: Linda Abuel, Buzzy Hong Rocky Anguay, Susie Berardy, Rose John Kaopua Galanto, Luz Peirson, Angie

Ben Cabreros, Buddy Gendrano, Sam Aquino, and Lino Visaya. Roland Casamina poses a picture with his teammates.

Golf Tournament Committee: FCCH President Bernadette Fajardo, Assistant Treasurer Angie Santiago, Treasurer Linda Abuel, FCCH's Vice President and Golf Tournament Chairperson Eddie Agas, Via Gallardo, Espie Badua, Lynne Gutierrez, and Director Rose Galanto. Participants enjoyed the all-you-can-eat dinner buffet. THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 15 PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017

By IVEE CRUZ

On June 17th, the Hôkûle‘a returns to the shores of O‘ahu after the historic Worldwide Voyage. It marks a momentous occasion in the history of Hawai‘i and a moment that will remembered for a lifetime. A decade ago, I had the honor of hearing Nainoa Thompson share his story of Hôkûle‘a. It was among a group of 44 fellows from 22 different countries participating in the Asia Pacific Leadership Program The author (Ivee) and crew members of the Polynesian Voyaging Society during Ivee's wedding. at the East-West Center on the campus of University of Hawai‘i at The traditions of Polynesian human rights, and international Mânoa. It was a beautiful evening of voyaging taught me about my history issues. Two, in my College and storytelling. The event lasted 4 hours, as a Filipino immigrant and my Career Counselor role, I have where we sat in the dark with the ancestors. I learned about the encouraged students to navigate lights off in Imin Center, as if on a commonalities between seafaring their lives with the spirit of Hôkûle‘a canoe in the middle of the ocean communities and island nations. as a guide. Ultimately, I hope to do underneath the stars. That day, the Learning about Hôkûle‘a encouraged my part in contributing to the mission story of Hôkûle‘a and Nainoa’s me to take the time to learn more of Mâlama Honua, caring for our example of leadership impacted my about my own history. For example, Island Earth. life in a lasting way. my family has since discovered our There are many things we can Throughout my life, I have been links to Polynesian ancestry as we do as a community to Mâlama fortunate to hear world renowned traced our genealogy. One thing that Honua, take care of ourselves and speakers, such as former President is clear: Filipinos, Hawaiians, and each other, and care for the ‘aina. Bill Clinton, Maya Angelou, His Polynesians are ocean people. We The core values that guide the Holiness the Dalai Lama, and are Pacific people who are united by Hôkûle‘a are: numerous others. Yet, for me, Nainoa one ocean. • Aloha : To love was the first person that “spoke to As an educator at the University • Mâlama : To care for Aboard Noa Noa Waikoloa your heart, from his heart.” His story Laboratory School, I have been • ‘Imi ‘Ike : To seek knowledge was deep and meaningful; it was fortunate to bring forth the values of • Lokomaika‘i : To share with messages of Mâlama Honua that personal and profound. voyaging in the work that I do and each other were woven like a lei around our Ivee Cruz was born in Marikina, From that day on, I have been share the message with the youth of • Na‘au Pono : To nurture Earth, is one that will continue to Philippines with family roots from inspire our world, and whose ripples Mindanao and Luzon. She is honored to volunteer as part of the Hawai‘i in two significant ways. One, a deep sense of justice currently a Doctoral Student in the Polynesian Voyaging Society and set I developed a course called Global • Olakino Maika‘i : To live of hope continue to reach across the College of Education at the with the esteemed responsibility of Leadership, which allows students to healthy oceans into the hearts of leaders, University of Hawai‘i at Mânoa. Ivee carrying forward the legacy of explore the world, while learning community members, and our has a M.A. in International Education Development from Teachers College, Hôkûle‘a, the values of Hawai‘i, and about culture, diversity, social justice, A community, island, nation and children. May the legacy of the Worldwide Voyage be one that Columbia University and a B.A. wayfinding. world guided by these values is a Global & International Studies and place I would hope to raise my young cultivates the world our children Sociology from University of son in. There is much each of us can deserve. California at Santa Barbara. learn from Hôkûle‘a, the Worldwide For more information about the Voyage, and the values of Hôkûle‘a homecoming please visit wayfinding. My hope is that the www.hokulea.com.

Ivee and son Chirayu THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 17

The New Face of Hawaii’s GOP

By JACO GALLARDE is a Filipina

Nightly discussions about from the University of Florida, and incoming Hawaii Republican Party politics, patriotism, and what it means subsequently earning a Masters of Chair on May 13, 2017. to be an American were regular Business Administration from Troy “There is a lot of opportunity for events around the family dining table State University in Alabama, and a change,” said Ostrov with passion in in the home of incoming Hawaii Masters of Organizational her voice. “There is an undeniable Republican Party Chair and retired Management from The George need for new ideas - a lot of things U.S. Air Force Colonel Shirlene Dela Washington University. are not working for us in government, Cruz Santiago Ostrov, whose father “Being in the south I was often particularly because there’s not was a 1st generation Filipino mistaken for someone of Mexican enough opposition. Our voices will be American who served in the United heritage,” Ostrov laughingly recalled. heard.” States Navy. “It was quite an experience having It was this dynamic environment come from a place like Hawaii, but Engaging Our People that would shape her commitment to luckily my parents taught me how to As the official voice for regulations” as an important issue to conservative values and a willingness carry myself with confidence, and it conservatives in Hawaii, Ostrov also many Filipino business people. Bryan Jaco Gallarde is a professional to serve, which continued throughout never bothered me.” serves a constituency that she “As the HRP Chair, this is a communicator, with over 10 years of college and her career in the Air believes can be engaged better. unique opportunity to engage political campaign, government, and Force, where she retired not so long Colonel Ostrov “There are so many conservative conservative members of the Filipino non-profit experience, specializing in ago at the rank of Colonel. Ostrov rose up the ranks in the voices in our Filipino community Community like they have not been Asian American community work. U.S. Air Force, serving in over 10 duty waiting to be heard,” said Ostrov. before, they’re out there.” When not writing for the Fil-Am Courier, he is eating his way through Humble Origins, Conservative stations domestic and abroad over a “Many of our traditional Filipino values Ostrov is also focused on a bucket list of restaurants in Hawaii Roots 23 year career. Her considerable are aligned with the party, from small empowering the next generation of and abroad and practicing his Born in Waipahu and raised in resume includes serving as a business owners to devout church Filipino American leaders. “Get out Tagalog. Mililani, Ostrov traces her roots back legislative liaison to congress as well goers – the question really is how to there find an issue you care about, to Batangas from her father’s side as working for the U.S. Special Envoy engage our people, how to organize, and become involved with people and and also from Bulacan from her to Sudan and other high-level and how to bring people into the fold.” groups that align with your values,” mother’s side. diplomats and missions. Ostrov particularly pointed to implored Ostrov, “get involved – it is Ostrov feels strongly connected “My experience as an officer in “overreaching government in our DNA to be politically active.” to traditional Filipino values while at the military really taught me the the same time learning how to honor importance of national security and her country and its boundless how policies at the highest level of opportunities. government truly matter,” said Ostrov. “We were always talking about In addition to serving in how to be good Americans, how to command posts, Ostrov also served give back,” said Ostrov. “There’s an as a legislative liaison to U.S. inherent connection to Filipino culture Congress. and traditional conservative values across the board.” Return Home “I grew up in a traditionally In 2014, Ostrov returned to catholic family with seven other Hawaii where she retired from the Air brothers and sisters, family was very Force and became the President and important and those values CEO of her own business firm, Ares transcended,” explained Ostrov, “as Mobility Solutions. She also made a I pass those values on to my twin 16 bit of a political homecoming, running year-old daughters who will be in the most recent special election for entering their senior year of high the late Congressman Mark Takai’s school this year.” seat in Congress. Despite the former incumbent Leaving the Nest Democratic Rep. Colleen Hanabusa After attending Mililani High winning the special election, Ostrov School, Ostrov continued her studies remained engaged with fellow through ROTC (Reserve Officer conservatives and supporters across Training School) eventually earning a the state, and was named as the Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16-30, 2017

By KATHLEEN LEE

Just in time for Philippine Independence Day celebrations in June, the art group Earth Philippines visited Hawaii to showcase their artwork aimed at highlighting Filipino culture and talent. The Earth Philippines collective is also dedicated to protecting the environment and celebrating life through the arts. One of the group’s accomplished artists, Love Marie Ongpauco- Escudero – also known as Heart Evangelista to those who follow the Filipino television and movie scene – shared with the Fil-Am Courier her involvement with the art exhibit. “This was through my paintings have gone was in Filipinos now make up the second- husband’s office – they requested Singapore which was two years largest racial group in Hawaii: if I could join their exhibit, and I’m ago, so (the exhibit being in approximately 350,000. “I’ve also close with some of the artists.” Hawaii) is really nice for us. spoken to some Filipinos here Ongpauco-Escudero is married to Especially with so many Filipinos (during my stay), and a lot of them Philippine Senator Francis Joseph here in Hawaii – it’s nice to share don’t know how to speak Tagalog. “Chiz” Escudero, whose paintings this with them.” So maybe this (exhibition) can are also on display with the rest of The actress/artist/entre- serve as a reminder about all of the Earth Philippines masterpieces. preneur mentioned that her pieces these great events happening here, “It was really nice for me to have that are traveling with the Earth that we should learn more about this exhibit with them, especially as Philippines exhibit are part of her the Philippines, and think of an actress. I’ve been painting 2018 collection called, “Love Marie actually going back to our roots.” seriously now for about four to five In Full Bloom.” “I’m doing a lot of On June 9 and 10, the art years, and it’s such an honor to be florals,” she stated, and mentioned exhibit titled, “Mabuhay Philippines! with all these amazing artists, so her hope that her artwork would be The Gift of Art to Mother Earth and I’m very happy about it.” When seen as evoking “women power.” Her Children” was on display at The asked about the significance of “It’s nice to be in Hawaii as a ARTS at Marks Garage in Filipino artists’ works being Filipino, especially since there are downtown Honolulu. The pieces featured outside of the Philippines, so many Filipinos here.” were later displayed at the 119th Ongpauco-Escudero responded, Ongpauco-Escudero’s statement Philippine Independence Day Gala “It’s huge for me. I didn’t really reflected the results from the 2010 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in The author with event organizer Fides Delgado and actress/artist Heart realize that we would have this U.S. Census whose numbers Waikiki. Along with Love Marie Evangelista. huge event. The farthest that my indicated that Filipinos and part- Ongpauco-Escudero (Heart Evangelista) and Philippine Senator Francis Joseph “Chiz” Escudero, the other talented Filipino artists on the Earth Philippines roster include Ligaya “Jing” Banawan, Rafael “Popoy” Aranello Cusi, Lloyd Orosa, Pancho Piano, and Fidel Malig Sarmiento. “EARTH stands for Environment, ART and Humanity,” said Banawan, referring to the group’s name. Indah Fides Delgado, who was instrumental in bringing the Filipino artists’ exhibit to Hawaii, stated, “we do this for the community.” Some proceeds from the exhibit will go towards various community programs for Hawaii’s keiki and kupuna.

Kathleen Lee was born in the Philippines and spent a portion of her early childhood in Baguio and Manila, raised in San Jose, California, and currently lives and thrives in Honolulu. She currently works as a senior policy advisor for a Hawaii- based consulting firm. THE FIL-AM COURIER • JUNE 16 -30, 2017 • PAGE 19

Steven Rhee, D.O., is a board-certified ophthalmologist at Hawaiian Eye Center. Along with his colleague Christopher Tortora, M.D., Medical Director of Hawaiian Eye, Dr. Rhee hosts “The Hawaiian Eye Show,” a weekly informational radio program about healthy vision broadcast live every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KHVH 830 AM/rebroadcast at 9 p.m. on By STEVEN RHEE, D.O. KHBZ 990 AM. Hawaiian Eye’s Corneal Specialist at Hawaiian Eye Center dedicated doctors and support staff are committed to educating the public about the importance of preventative June is designated Cataract eye care. To learn more about a Awareness Month by the American variety of eye health issues, please Academy of Ophthalmology because call 621-8448 or visit over 24 million Americans suffer from this eye disease, according to HawaiianEye.com and Prevent Blindness America and the Facebook.com/HawaiianEyeCenter. National Eye Institute. If left “For over 40 years, life has never untreated, cataracts can lead to looked better.” blindness. Cataracts are a natural process of aging. It occurs when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy and light for the retina to process images is blocked and distorted. Signs of cataracts include blurred vision, sensitivity to light, fading or yellowing of colors, poor night vision, sensitivity to glare and seeing a halo around bright lights. Some of the risk factors associated with cataracts include: exposure to ultraviolet light, diet, the eye’s clouded lens and replacing is reported and surgery is typically of surgeries and offers patients the factors or 60 and over, you should smoking, diabetes, use of some it with an artificial lens implant. With outpatient. ability improve vision impairments get an eye exam once a year. steroid medications and serious eye modern cataract surgery, patients At Hawaiian Eye Center, we use near, far and in between. Preventative measures like a injuries. can usually upgrade the procedure the most advanced technology and If you’re 40 and over, you healthy diet and regular exercise can Although cataracts are a very to include vision correction to reduce were one of the first in Hawaii to should have a comprehensive dilated reduce your risk of forming cataracts. serious health issue, it is treatable. dependency on glasses and contact utilize “Laser Assisted Cataract eye exam every two to three years An early diagnosis can also help you Cataract surgery is one of the most lenses for those with refractive Surgery” with femtosecond laser. from your eye care professional. If protect your vision. Speak with your common operations performed in the errors. Very little pain or discomfort This technology allows for the you’re 40 and over with other risk eye care professional. U.S.; the process involves removing opportunity to enhance the outcome

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