NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  1

NOVEMBER 2, 2019

SPECIAL FEATURE LEGAL NOTES Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Court Blocks New Excellence Awardees Public Charge Rule

Q & A

CFO Secretary Francisco Acosta Visits Hawaii For Ugnayan Sa U. S. 2 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019

EDITORIAL FROM THE PUBLISHER Publisher & Executive Editor ur community is much stron- Charlie Y. Sonido, M.D. Publisher & Managing Editor HFC Awardees Exemplify ger when more helping hands Chona A. Montesines-Sonido work together to uplift each Associate Editors Selfless Service that Builds other. This has always been Edwin QuinaboDennis Galolo true. Sometimes help can Contributing Editor come in the unlikeliest of Belinda Aquino, Ph.D. a Stronger Community O Layout places and from people you wouldn’t neces- n the course of 25 years, the Hawaii Filipino Junggoi Peralta sarily expect. What’s also true is that good Photography Chronicle has reported on and made genuine deeds are interconnected. One person might have a unique Tim Llena connections with many individuals who have skill; and a second person another skill. Put the two together, Administrative Assistant Lilia Capalad spent a lifetime making a difference. Much too and multiply that then suddenly there is this power unleashed often, individuals who give generously to their Shalimar Pagulayan in the form of community-building. Our community’s grand- Editorial Assistant I communities go unrecognized for their efforts. est projects have followed this pattern; perhaps the greatest Jim Bea Sampaga So it’s laudable that the HFC owners and staff have decided to example is in the building and continued support of the Filipi- Columnists share their 25th Anniversary celebration by recognizing out- no Community Center. And there are many others. Carlota Hufana Ader Elpidio R. Estioko standing members in our community. For our cover story this issue, associate editor Edwin These individuals (HFC Excellence awardees) have ex- Emil Guillermo Quinabo writes about the HFC Excellence Awards that will Melissa Martin, Ph.D. celled in various fields – from medicine to law, politics to aca- be formally handed out at the HFC 25th Anniversary Gala and J.P. Orias Pacita Saludes demia, media to entertainment, culture to community service. Awards Banquet on Nov. 23 at the Ala Moana Hotel, Hibis- Not only have they made their mark in their respective profes- Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq. cus Ballroom. Recipients of the HFC Excellence Awards have Charlie Sonido, M.D. sions, but they’ve simultaneously worked as community-build- been selected for their lifetime contributions to our commu- Emmanuel S. Tipon, Esq. ers on their spare time with passion to commit to something nity as well as their work in their respective fields from med- Contributing Writers larger than themselves. icine to law, to education and culture, and so on. They repre- Clement Bautista Edna Bautista, Ed.D. Through each stage in life, no one does it alone but depends sent the spirit of community-building and giving. Alongside on others apart from family. These HFC awardees represent Teresita Bernales, Ed.D. the cover story is a write-up of the 35 (in total) outstanding Sheryll Bonilla, Esq. that helping hand. They’re that attorney who does pro bono Filipino individuals and organizations who will receive our Rose Churma Serafin Colmenares Jr., Ph.D. work for the underprivileged; that doctor who volunteers on HFC Excellence Award. Congratulations to our awardees; and medical missions to help the sick and poor; that academic who Linda Dela Cruz thank you for your contributions to our community. We are Carolyn Weygan-Hildebrand educates our youths in the classroom and gives them skills to pleased that you and your family and friends will be able to Amelia Jacang, M.D. Caroline Julian succeed in life; that public servant who helps to run govern- celebrate with us our milestone 25th Anniversary. ment for the overall benefit of society; that community leader Raymond Ll. Liongson, Ph.D. Also in this issue, HFC contributor Carolyn Weygan-Hil- Federico Magdalena, Ph.D. who keeps us engaged by working on community events where debrand contributes an article on some of the community Matthew Mettias Maita Milallos fellowship and bonds are renewed; and that cultural expert who events that occurred around the state (Maui, the Big Island, keeps our people interested in our Filipino heritage, history, Paul Melvin Palalay, M.D. Kauai, and Oahu) during October’s Filipino-American Histo- Renelaine Bontol-Pfister and language. ry Month (FAHM) or also often referred to as Filipino-Amer- Seneca Moraleda-Puguan How does community-building work? It means service, ican Heritage month. Jay Valdez, Psy.D. participation and interaction. HFC awardees have put in tire- Glenn Wakai We also have a news feature on Fil-Am actress Sienna Amado Yoro less time, energy, ideas, knowledge, and often money to keep Aczon who will star in a fantasy action film “DEVATHA: The Philippine Correspondent: our community thriving. They have invested of themselves to Awakening,” which will premiere in Hawaii theaters and the Greg Garcia benefit others. And it is our relationships with them and each film festival circuit worldwide in the Spring 2020. Sienna is Neighbor Island Correspondents: other that make us empowered. an award-winning actress. She is a local talent who graduated Concrete examples of some HFC Excellence awardees’ Big Island (Hilo and Kona) from Punahou School. Grace LarsonDitas Udani community-building efforts: President and CEO of House of HFC contributor Raymund Llanes Liongson informs us of Kauai Finance, Inc. Roland Casamina has engineered his knowledge the Knights of Rizal-Aloha letter-writing contest open to Ha- Millicent Wellington and network to help raise funds for the building of the Filipino Maui waii residents. Participants are asked to answer: “If Dr. Jose Christine Sabado Community Center; physician-volunteers of both the Bayani- Rizal (Philippine national hero) were to write to the Filipino han Clinic Without Walls (BCWW) and the Ohana Medical Big Island Distributors women today, both in the Philippines and abroad, what would Grace LarsonDitas Udani Missions, Inc. dedicate their expertise and hard work to help he tell them given the current realities and development? Get Kauai Distributors the medically underserved and uninsured; and Owner of Group the details of this fascinating and educational contest in our Amylou Aguinaldo Nestor Aguinaldo Builders, Inc. Lito Alcantara has provided labor and construc- news section. tion for the Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls Health Services. Maui Distributors Be sure to also read our columns section, including HFC Cecille PirosRey Piros All of them know of each other’s work, some have collab- columnist Elpidio Estioko’s “Veterans Should Be Remem- Molokai Distributor orated on projects; it’s charitable interconnectedness in action. bered Every Day” and HFC columnist Atty. Reuben Seguri- Maria Watanabe And the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle over the years has worked tan’s “Courts Block New Public Charge Rule.” Seguritan’s ar- Oahu Distributors with and publicized both their charitable and professional con- Yoshimasa Kaneko ticle comes as good news for our community. A U.S. court on Jonathan Pagulayan tributions to our community. This is how community-building October temporarily stopped the implementation of the “pub- works. Remove one part then suddenly our community is that Advertising / Marketing Director lic charge rule” (pushed by the Trump Administration) that Chona A. Montesines-Sonido much less stronger. Add another helping hand in this chain, the would have prevented persons who use public benefits such Account Executives work continues and gets done. as Medicaid, food stamps or housing assistance from getting a Carlota Hufana Ader Now here we are nearing the night of the Gala and Awards green card or U.S. permanent residence status. JP Orias Banquet, about to come full circle and celebrate all our life-time Lastly, thank you for your continuing support. We hope Intern accomplishments with the community we all love dearly. It’s you will be able to attend our 25th Anniversary Gala and Mark Lester Ranchez not just about patting ourselves on the back, but about showing Awards banquet. Contact us at 808-678-8930 for details. Until the younger generations what community-building looks like next issue, warmest Aloha and Mabuhay! in the hope that they can carry on the torch and do remarkable, selfless work when their time comes to make a difference. The HFC awardees have exemplified this belief that per- sonal achievement must also include progress and prosperity for those around us; in other words our ambitions are much (continue on page 3) NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  3 EDITORIALS

Social Media Is Being Politically Weaponized For example almost any s democracy and and ill-equipped for the im- large newspaper online are our election sys- mensity of the problems we’ve bombarded by fake social me- tem being com- acknowledged.” dia posters under the comments promised on so- He added: “Abuse, harass- section. Some posters are fake, cial media? ment, troll armies, propagan- duplicate accounts from politi- I In- da through bots and human cally radical individuals called ternational journalist Maria coordination, misinformation “troll armies;” while some are Ressa has a dire warning for campaigns, and divisive filter campaign-driven by political Americans, citing what hap- bubbles — that’s not a healthy propaganda entities that have pened in the Philippines could public square. Worse, a rela- far more nefarious goals than very well be in store for the tively small number of bad- to make a simple comment. United States. She said the faith actors were able to game Common sense tells the coordinated manipulation and Twitter to have an outsized social media user that what spread of lies on social media impact.” is being posted in the com- are not just a phenomenon to Social media companies ments section under a politi- Philippine elections. are working on using artificial cally charged article may not “What is happening to the the highest number of com- and target sites, spread lies intelligence (AI) to address represent popular opinion; or Philippines is a warning to de- promised Facebooks accounts and disinformation, even hack political misinformation but when these posters cite facts mocracies around the world. in the Cambridge Analytica search engines to hide candi- it is in the early stages. They they may not be accurate but More than three years ago, lies scandal. Ressa asserts that so- dates’ profiles. say AI works well for some deliberate misinformation. So- laced with anger and hate be- cial media manipulation was What Social Media is do- things but when it comes to cial media users should always gan to systematically tear our in part responsible for the ing to combat the problem understanding the subtleties consider the source of what is democracy apart in the Phil- election of President Rodrigo The problem is so wide- of language and when it’s hate posted online. ippines. They split open the Duterte. spread that the U.S. Congress speech or abuse, machines still The U.S. government and fracture lines in our society, has been asking social media have a lot to learn. social media executives are in eroded trust in our institutions, American Elections compro- company executives for an- Facebook is going after the right direction and must created and inflamed ideas of mised swers. Facebook executives “inauthenticity” or fake ac- continue working together to ‘us against them,’” said Ressa. Like in the Philippines said already the company re- counts. Twitter is focusing on find solutions to safeguard our Sounds familiar? elections, the Robert Mueller moves some objectionable analyzing behavior patterns to elections and democracy. Cambridge Analytica investigation revealed election content before people report find suspicious activity. The Facebook CEO Mark whistleblower Christopher meddling, specifically that the it. Twitter is also committed companies have made policy Zuckerberg gave an honest as- Wyle told Ressa that the Phil- Russians launched a sophis- to developing automated tools changes, and have caught and sessment of the consequences ippines was used by the com- ticated cyberattack that used that would delete content with- banned malicious accounts of free and open communica- pany as a “petri dish” for test- social media to sow division out an actual person making a over the past year. tion streams. “I wish I could ing tactics used for behavior in the U.S. and to prop up the complaint. tell you we’re going to be able modification, among them, to 2016 presidential campaign of Both Facebook and Twit- Common Sense to stop all interference, but that disseminate propaganda and Donald Trump. Thirteen Rus- ter pledged to better protect Until social media com- wouldn’t be realistic. There manipulate voter opinion. sians were indicted by special their social media platforms in panies get a handle on the will always be bad people in Cambridge Analytica was counsel Mueller on charges of the 2020 elections and beyond; situation and are able to curb the world, and we can’t pre- a political consulting firm that an elaborate plot to disrupt the and told Congress of aggressive the spread of propaganda and vent all governments from all used data mining and other 2016 election by creating fake efforts to root out foreign intru- false information, social media interference. But we can make high-tech techniques to sway accounts that pushed divisive sions aimed at sowing divisions users must use common sense it harder. We can make it a lot elections. Owned by politi- issues on social media. in American democracy. and educated judgement over harder. And that’s what we’re cal conservative billionaire American intelligence ex- Twitter’s CEO Jack Dors- content they come across. going to do.” Robert Mercer, the company perts say the weaponization ey said “We aren’t proud of closed following its Facebook of social media to influence how that free and open ex- data scandal. But other related elections is ongoing. Russians change has been weaponized companies still exist. and others are still trying to and used to distract and divide The Philippines was sec- buy ads on social media, have people, and our nation. We ond only to the U.S. that had computer bots manipulate data found ourselves unprepared

(EDITORIAL: HFC AWARDEES...from page 2) more fulfilling when they are Flores, Dr. Anthony Guerrero, Medical Missions, Inc., Pacita broad and benefit both our Dr. Aurelio Agcaoili, Bayani- Saludes, Philip Sabado, Filipi- own and others’ needs. han Clinic Without Walls, Dr. no Association of University In this spirit of mutu- Carolina Davide, Bernadette Women, Judge Randal Valen- al support, we hope that our Baraquio, Judge Catherine ciano, Reynard Graulty, Ro- community will show their Remigio, Dr. Cecile Sebas- land Casamina, Peter Aduja gratitude for this well-deserv- tian, Danny Villaruz, Edith (posthumous awardee), Romy ing group by attending the Doctolero, Filipino-American Cachola, Rosalinda Malalis, HFC 25th Anniversary Gala Historical Society of Hawaii, Chef Sheldon Simeon, Associ- and Awards Banquet on Nov. Jeoffrey Cudiamat, Kristian ate Justice Simeon Acoba, and 23 at the Ala Moana Hotel, Lei, Chef Joel Navasca, Lito Judge William Domingo. Hibiscus Ballroom. Alcantara, Rev. Larry Estrella, Mabuhay to these leaders. Congratulations to all our Margarita “Dayday” Hopkins, Thank you for all that you’ve HFC awardees: Abner Un- Maribel Apuya, Melody Cali- done toward the betterment of dan, Dr. Amelia Jacang, Ariel say, Norman Arancon, Ohana our community. 4 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019 COVER STORY HFC to Award Outstanding Individuals and Organizations in the Filipino Community By Edwin Quinabo

ach day people are empowered to change their communities. The Filipino community has no shortage of smart, energetic, charitable, courageous individuals who do just that -- making a positive impact for others to benefit. E The owners and staff of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle (HFC) will honor a total of 35 Filipino individuals and organizations with the HFC Excellence awards on the newspaper’s 25th Anniversary Awards and Gala night on Nov. 23, 2019 at the Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom. Awardees were chosen for both their stellar accomplishments in their re- spective fields – law, medicine, government, business, education, entertain- ment, and so on – as well as their work as community-builders, as leaders working to uplift the Filipino community.

Chona Montesines-Soni- Committee comprised of Mylene Reyes, Presi- do, publisher and manag- leaders in our community and dent of the Filipino Associ- ing editor of HFC, calls the HFC staff members to select ation of University Women awardees “unsung heroes” the awardees. Members re- (FAUW), will be accepting because they quietly give searched individuals and made the award on behalf of FAUW, without expecting anything in recommendations to the com- which was one of the orga- return. She said, “We are rec- mittee on who should receive nization-awardees. FAUW ognizing them to promote the an award specific to a category will receive the “Outstanding good work they have done and like medicine or culture. Achievement in Community ing pride and image of the their dream home,” said Casa- so that they can serve as role “Some of the awardees Service Award” specifically in Filipinos are forefront on my mina. models to our youth. have worked with our staff and the preservation and perpetu- personal agenda in hopes that Casamina is also one of “We’ve decided to recog- writers on some projects so we ation of Filipino arts and cul- one day, no Filipino youth will the founders of the Filipino nize these awardees to bring know very well what they’ve ture. ever utter the words, ‘shame to Community Center and served awareness to certain values done in the community. It “FAUW has been in exis- be Filipino,’” said Reyes. as its first president. He raised that we also believe in with our isn’t like a contest where you tence for 32 years and has been “Thank you to the pub- over $14.5 million in over 12 newspaper. These awardees choose only one person per engaged in promoting and lishers and staff of the HFC years, earning him the title of share our newspaper’s mission category. So, in some catego- strengthening Filipino heritage for being the genuine eyes and President Emeritus. The Fil- goal of building, empowering, ries there are more awardees in Hawaii. To be recognized by ears of the Filipino communi- Com Center even has a Casa- and advocating for our Filipi- than others. The selection is a distinguished publication as ty. The longevity of the HFC mina Ballroom named in his no community.” based on the nominations of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle is a testament to the excellence honor. Sonido said HFC has our staff and the awardees’ is a source of pride and mo- in journalism that prevails in “The Filipino Chronicle set up an Excellence Awards merits,” explained Sonido. tivation for all our members every issue of this widely re- has done a great service for to continue our work,” said spected Filipino newspaper,” our community. To reach 25 Reyes. she said. years in any business entity is She mentioned just a few Roland Casamina, Pres- a milestone,” said Casamina. of FAUW’s programs like Let- ident and CEO of House of Rey Graulty has been se- ters To My Parents Contest, Finance, is receiving the Ex- lected to receive the HFC Ex- poetry readings, and book pub- cellence award in Finance. His cellence award in Politics. He lications. “All of them aim to company has been in the top is a former judge of the Circuit amplify the voices of today’s 20 largest residential lenders Court, former state senator and Fil-Am youth in the landscape on Oahu for multiple years, representative, former State of harsh discrimination, racism according to Pacific Business Insurance Commissioner and and prejudice.” News. House of Finance does attorney. FAUW has collaborated all types of loans from per- “There was no prouder with the Honolulu Museum sonal, car, and commercial. Its moment than being elected of Art’s Doris Duke Theater primary focus is on residential to the Legislature for the first to host the Filipino Film Fes- financing. time – someone not born and tival, an ongoing project since “I started in the finance raised here, and to receive 2014. Recently, they’ve assist- industry in 1976 and enjoy do- the approbation of my neigh- ed Farrington High School’s ing the same until today. It’s bors and the people I sought ELL Students in book pub- not so much about the finance to represent. It took every lishing. They’ve held lectures, industry or about how much ounce of my ability and en- exhibits, and present an annual money we can make, but it is ergy to reach that point. All Filipino Christmas traditions so rewarding when I’ve made that came after really flowed event at the Honolulu Museum a difference in the people’s from that accomplishment,” of Art (HoMA). lives, when I see their smiles said Graulty, who was born in “Advancing and elevat- because we’ve put them into (continue on page 4) NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  5 COVER STORY (from page 4) Manila and arrived in Hawaii media business for nearly 25 borhoods with Filipino popu- government service or private ident, Sariling Gawa Youth in 1972. He worked for the years, but it also feels nice to lations like Waipahu, Kahuku practice, I strove to work hard Council; president, Hawaii Fil- late Senator Daniel Inouye be recognized for this kind of and Hawi on the Big island. and effectively and ethically ipino Lawyers Association.” before he decided to run for achievement at this time in my She recalls being inter- represent my clients. I found He says his children have public office the first time. career – especially during the viewed by the Hawaii Filipi- that having an open mind and continued what he has done On his contributions to the silver anniversary of a news no Chronicle in the late 1990s a sympathetic ear puts people and also serve the Filipino Filipino community, he said organization that continual- shortly after being promoted at ease and that working as a community. All of them are “everything I’ve done in both ly celebrates our heritage and from reporter to anchor on team gets the best results. actively involved in Sariling my personal and public life culture,” said Baraquio, who KHON2 News. “It was sur- “I have had the privilege Gawa and his daughter Jessica was to give honor to my Fili- was also a reporter and anchor real to be recognized as one of serving the people of the was the president of the Filipi- pino heritage and to rise from for KHON2 News in the late of the only Filipino anchors First Circuit as a District Court no Law Students Association my humble beginnings. I was 1990s and currently a broad- in local broadcast news at the Judge for the last four years. It and is currently the president born under a lucky star and cast journalism instructor at time. Most recently, HFC has has been the fulfillment of my of the Hawaii Filipino Law- hopefully my good fortune UH-Manoa’s School of Com- launched a new journalism legal career. I continue to keep yers Association. and any of my accomplish- munications (besides her work scholarship that could help following my moral compass Judge Domingo recalls ments have been reflected in with Living Local TV). benefit our UH students and never forgetting that I am a that when he was sworn in the standing that Filipinos in In 2004, Baraquio found- local graduates. Looking back, public servant.” as judge in 2015, he and his Hawaii have gained and con- ed her own production com- I am grateful to know that He recalls how he got re- mother were featured on the tinue to gain in our diverse, pany and launched one of the HFC has always been there to connected to his Filipino heri- cover of the Hawaii Filipino multi-ethnic society. first “100% Original, 100% document the positive stories tage. “My pride in my culture Chronicle. “It was the perfect “Public service has been Local” programs on Oceanic of our Filipino community and was nurtured and enhanced vehicle to thank and acknowl- an important value to me. I am cable TV. She said LIVING to support the future genera- during my college years at the edge my family and those that the only person in Hawaii to- LOCAL WITH THE BARA- tions of Filipino journalists,” University of Hawaii at Ma- helped me attain my position. day who has served in all three QUIOS quickly ranked among said Baraquio. noa. Taking Ilocano language I am truly grateful that there branches of government – as a the top-rated entertainment TV The honorable District classes led to my involvement is a publication of the highest state legislator, as State Insur- shows statewide and is still on Court Judge William Domingo in Operation Manong headed caliber taking the pulse of the ance Commissioner, and as a the air today on Hawaii News of the First Circuit will receive by Dr. Amy Agbayani. I also Filipinos in Hawaii and shar- Circuit Court Judge. I would Now affiliate K5. The - mag the Excellence Award in Legal began taking classes by Pro- ing our achievements with all venture to say that none of this azine show has also aired on Practice. He has tried more fessors Belinda Aquino, Ter- of Hawaii. might have happened had I broadcast channels KHON- than a hundred jury trials in esita Ramos and Ricardo Tri- Ariel Flores, DPT, is one not been of Filipino ancestry. I TV, WB Network and the the entire gamut from traffic to millos. I was hooked, taking of several medical profession- am conscious of this and have Coastal TV Network in Cali- white-collar corruption, con- every Philippine/Filipino relat- als selected to receive an HFC never turned down an oppor- fornia. spiracies, and violent crimes. ed class I could find, eventual- Excellence award. “I am both tunity to be of service to the On the Filipino communi- He was named as one of Ha- ly earning a degree in Philip- honored and humbled by this community,” said Graulty. ty, Baraquio said she enjoyed waii Super Lawyers in the area pine Studies. recognition for my work and Bernadette Baraquio, cre- covering numerous stories on of criminal defense for 2008- “I took leadership posi- contributions to our commu- ative director and executive Filipino fiestas and cultural 2010. tions in Filipino organizations nity.” producer of Living Local TV, practices, artists and musicians “I am very honored to ac- serving as president of Filipino Flores is a physical thera- is the HFC Excellence award- of Filipino ancestry (Tia Carre- cept this award on behalf of my Students’ Association at UH; pist and owner of an outpatient ee in the Media category. re, Jasmine Trias, Lea Salonga, family and the many mentors president, Filipino Law Stu- orthopedic physical therapy “This award came a sur- Kristian Lei, Augie T, Lanai who have blessed my personal dents Association at the Wil- practice. Besides his PT work, prise to me. It has been a fruit- and the late Andy Bumatai to and professional life,” he said. liam S. Richardson School of he has participated in sever- ful journey working in the name a few) and local neigh- “For 30 years, whether in Law; co-founder, board pres- (continue on page 6) SPECIAL FEATURE Soil Science. Immediately after, the Hawaii Department of Health hired Calisay as their Co- HFC EXCELLENCE AWARDEES ordinator and Remedial Project Manager. She also assisted various state, county and city (Editor’s Note: This is an abbreviated version of an original full-length compilation government agencies in applying for federal grants. written by our staff in the HFC 25th Anniversary Souvenir Book that will be available at Twenty years ago, Calisay founded East-West Marketing, Inc., an Oahu-based import- the HFC Anniversary and Awards Gala.) er and wholesaler of dry good products from the Philippines. The company supplies goods to all Filipino and Asians stories on Oahu, Lanai, Kauai, Big Island, Maui and Molokai. ARTS Currently, Calisay still works full time with her job at the State while part-time in East- Phillip Sabado West Marketing. Aside from providing jobs and a piece of home to Filipinos in Hawaii, she Sabado was born and raised in Mauna Loa. After serving in the army, also hires essential employees from the Philippines whose status can be eventually con- he began studying at the Honolulu Museum of Art to pursue his interest verted to a US green card permanent alien status. in design and painting. Soon after he completed his art program in Hono- lulu, he interned at the Bishop Museum learning from the great histori- CONSTRUCTION cal archives and working under celebrated artist-historian Herb Kāne. His Anacleto “Lito” Alcantara passion and commitment would then take him to continue his studies at Alcantara is founder and president Group Builders, Inc., the largest fin- the premier Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. Sabado worked within ishing contractor in the state of Hawaii. He grew up in a poor farming family illustration and design in Los Angeles as a Senior Art Director for the Bristol Meyers Cor- in the small town of San Vicente in Ilocos Sur, Philippines. He earned a schol- poration. At that time, he became one of the top 50 illustrators in the US. In 1984, he arship at Mapua Institute of Technology in Manila and earned his Bachelor returned to Hawaii and explored a career in fine arts over the next 20 years. He has been of Science in Civil Engineering in 1960. He worked as an Assistant Project commissioned to do many public and private murals and is celebrated within the collec- Engineer for the Manila Railroad Company and was awarded the model As- tor community. He considers murals as a very effective means of communication—such sistant Project Engineer. For nine years, he ventured out as the owner of the that these murals have become an intrinsic part of many Hawaii structures. Alcantara Construction Company. In 1972, Alcantara migrated to Hawaii where he started Sabado’s art studio can be found in Wailuku, Maui. as a janitor for Acoustic Insulation & Drywall, Inc. and worked his way up becoming its Executive Vice President. BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP When the company was sold in 1979, Alcantara started Group Builders, Inc. which be- Melody Calisay came the first Filipino company included in the top 250 companies in Hawaii and the first Calisay started as an academic, having obtained her Bachelor’s and Filipino construction company to make Hawaii’s Top 20 general contractors, per Hawaii Master’s degree in Agriculture from the University of the Philippines Los Business magazine. The company has consistently stayed there ever since. In 2008 and Baños in 1976 and 1984. Calisay came to Hawaii to pursue doctoral studies. 2009, the company was named one of Hawaii’s Best Places to Work. In 1996, she obtained her Ph.D. in Agriculture with majors in Agronomy and (continue on page 6) 6 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019 COVER STORY (HFC TO AWARD....from page 5) al Bayanihan Clinic Without publication in the State of Ha- gations. Many of my students Doctolero, Filipino-American gural winner (plus an addition- Walls (BCWW) fundraising waii. HFC has tackled many are accomplished in the sense Historical Society of Hawaii, al $1,000 if recipient maintains activities. BCWW (another relevant and controversial top- that they are now in pursuit of Jeoffrey Cudiamat, Kristian a 3.0 GPA or higher). HFC organization-awardee) ics that have not only affected the greater good.” Lei, Chef Joel Navasca, Lito provides free medical and den- Filipinos in Hawaii, but also Social justice is important Alcantara, Rev. Larry Estrella, Mahalo to our Sponsors tal services to immigrants and the rest of the U.S. and the to Agcaoili who has witnessed Margarita “Dayday” Hopkins, Sponsors of the HFC marginalized Hawaii residents. world.” and participated in two Peo- Maribel Apuya, Melody Cali- 25th Anniversary Awards and “Although Filipinos are a Dr. Aurelio Agcaoili will ple Powers revolutions in the say, Norman Arancon, Ohana Gala night include: Charlie major ethnic group in Hawaii, be receiving an HFC Excel- Philippines. He has also done Medical Missions, Inc., Pacita Y. Sonido and Chona Monte- I feel like they are still dis- lence award in Higher Ed- work as a journalist. “I’ve Saludes, Philip Sabado, Filipi- sines-Sonido, Primary Care criminated against especially ucation. He is the program found the moral courage to no Association of University Clinic of Hawaii, Dr. Ray in the areas of healthcare and coordinator of the Ilocano write about immigrant rights, Women, Judge Randal Valen- Romero of Westshore Neurol- employment. Certain medi- Department at the University the plight of the oppressed ciano, Reynard Graulty, Ro- ogy, LLC., Mark Chui, CPA cal professionals do not have of Hawaii at Manoa and presi- and the poor, the unevenness land Casamina, Peter Aduja & Christopher Chui, Esq., patience to listen to their Fil- dent of the Nakem U.S. chap- of our access to resources, the (posthumous awardee), Romy MD Rejuvenation Center/Dr. ipino patients. This could re- ter, an academic-based global closing of the door to those Cachola, Rosalinda Malalis, Sorbella Guillermo and Ed- sult in Filipinos not receiving organization that promotes the who want to partake in the Chef Sheldon Simeon, Associ- gar Manuel, APRN, Roland the best care possible,” said Ilocano language and culture. American dream,” said Ag- ate Justice Simeon Acoba, and and Evelyn Casamina, House Flores. One of his goals is to “I have not found any di- caoili. Judge William Domingo. of Finance, Drs. Antonio Tan be that medical professional chotomy between what I do in and Elisea N. Singson, Bank who can work with Filipino the classroom and what I do The HFC Excellence HFC Scholarship Award of Hawaii, Dr. & Mrs. Nica- patients to ensure that they for the community for the rea- Awardees Also that evening, the HFC nor & Imelda Joaquin, Mi- get the best medical care they son that my classroom extends The distinguished group will formally recognize Alyssa chael McMann, M.D., LLC/ deserve. to the community in much the of awardees are Abner Un- Acob, the 2019 HFC Journal- McMann Eye Institute, First Flores said of the Filipi- same way that community con- dan, Dr. Amelia Jacang, Ariel ism Scholarship winner. She Hawaiian Bank, PMAH Foun- no Chronicle, “Through the cerns get into my classroom, Flores, Dr. Anthony Guerrero, is a senior with a double ma- dation, Cecille & Rey Piros, years, my opinions have been as well,” said Agcaoili, who Dr. Aurelio Agcaoili, Bayani- jor in Integrated Multimedia Richard Pecson dba Pecson & sought on various topics that has taught in Honolulu, the han Clinic Without Walls, Dr. and Mass Communication at Associates, Belinda Aquino, the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Philippines and Los Angeles. Carolina Davide, Bernadette Hawaii Pacific University. In Ph.D., Josephine De La Torre covered. It is amazing how a “I have helped formed citizens Baraquio, Judge Catherine commemoration of its 25th Waite-Ansdell, Abner Undan fledgling periodical 25 years that are engaged, committed, Remigio, Dr. Cecile Sebas- publication year, the Chronicle of Trees of Hawaii, and James ago, could become a major conscious of their social obli- tian, Danny Villaruz, Edith is awarding $2,500 to its inau- & Beth Hoban

(AWARDEES....from page 5) Alcantara has chaired annual trade missions of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce. Best of Hawaii Award in General & Cosmetic Dentistry (2018-2019), Honolulu Magazine’s His company provided labor and construction for the Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls Best Dentist (2005-2019), Better Business Bureau of Hawaii’s Torch Award for Business Health Services which provides free medical treatment to new immigrant families who Ethics, Network and others. She founded the non-profit organization, Smiles for Success in don’t have medical insurance. 2013, as well as the Hawaii Future Dentist Symposium in 2008. Dr. Sebastian provided free dental services at Donated Dental Services and Give Kids a CULINARY ARTS Smile, sponsored by the American Dental Association for an annual free dental screening Chef Joel Navasca for children. She is a Hawaii Food Bank Healthcare Coalition member and an Aloha Medical Chef Navasca has more than 30 years of experience in the food ser- Mission volunteer. Her professional affiliations include the American Academy of Implant vice industry. He migrated to Hawaii from Cebu, Philippines. He started as a Dentistry, American Dental Association, Hawaii Dental Association and Honolulu County dishwasher and worked his way up in different restaurants and companies Dental Association. such as Perry Boy’s Smorgy, Wong’s Family Byron Restaurant Group, Ameri- Dr. Sebastian graduated in B.S. Biology at Purdue University and Doctor of Dental Sur- can Classic Cruise Lines and Stuart Anderson Cattle Company. Eventually, he gery at Northwestern University Dental School. teamed up with Big City Diner to open their last three restaurants. Navasca is a strong promoter of the Filipino cuisine in Hawaii. He believes that Filipino ENGINEERING food can be marketable and popular and should be at the same tier as any other Asian cui- Jeoffrey Cudiamat sines. In 2014, he opened the first branch of Tiano’s Restaurant in Ewa Beach. He received Cudiamat founded Structural Hawaii, Inc. (SHI) which provides architec- the highly lauded 2018 Best of Hawaii Critics Award from Star Advertiser. tural and engineering services all in one firm. Cudiamat made two “40 under Chef Navasca is also a great mentor. He trains future chefs in his restaurants to gain 40” lists: Pacific Business News, 2010, and Professional Remodeler, 2012. Ha- hands-on knowing in the kitchen, dining experience and the Hawaii food industry. waii Council of Engineering Society named him “Young Engineer of the Year” Together with his son, Ian Navasca, Chef Joel has helped launch the Treasure Box Studio, in 2009. Filipino-American League of Engineers & Architects honored him as a non-profit organization that aide youths to find inspiration through the art of dancing. “Engineer of the Year” in 2008. He received the Superior Achievement Award for Navy Public Works in 2003 and 2004. Hawaii State Jaycees awarded him as its Out- Chef Sheldon Simeon standing Chapter President in 2004 and Outstanding Individual Development Director in Born in Hilo, on the Big Island, Chef Simeon acquired his love for cooking 2006. SHI was #19 on Pacific Business News’ Hawaii’s Fastest 50 in 2009. Filipino Chamber from his parents. His path led from Hilo High to the Culinary Institute of the of Commerce named him its 2008 “Young Filipino Entrepreneur.” Pacific, onto an internship at Walt Disney World. Upon returning to Hawaii, A former chief engineer for the City and County of Honolulu, he holds structural en- Sheldon attended Maui Culinary Academy. gineering, civil engineering, and contractor’s licenses. This year’s President-Elect for the Chef Simeon competed in the 10th season of Bravo Network’s Top Chef: Filipino Chamber of Commerce, he is affiliated with Structural Engineers Association of Seattle, making it to the finals, and winning Fan Favorite. He returned to the Hawaii, American Public Works Association–Hawaii chapter, Filipino-American League of show again in 2017 for season 14: Charleston, once again winning Fan Favorite. Engineers & Architects, Waikiki Business Improvement District, Government & Utility Task In 2016, Chef Simeon opened up his very first solo restaurant, Tin Roof, in Kahu- Force, Hawaii Council of Engineering Societies, Board of Water Supply and Cold-Formed lui, Maui, where he serves up local dishes in take-out bowls. In Fall 2018, Chef Simeon Steel Engineers Institute. opened his second solo project, Lineage, also on the island of Maui. In 2019, Lineage was Cudiamat earned his B.S. in Civil Engineering with Honors from the University of named a James Beard Award semifinalist for “Best New Restaurant.” Southern California in 1996. Chef Simeon’s other awards and accolades include 2013 Maui News Maui’s Best Chef, 2014 FOOD & WINE Magazine’s People’s Best New Chef for the Pacific & Northwest, 2014- ENTERTAINMENT 2015 Hawaii Magazine’s Top 5 Best Hawaiian Chefs and 2019 Maui Time’s Best Chef. Kristian Lei Lei is an international singer-songwriter, producer, director and theater DENTISTRY performer. She starred in many roles such as Kim from Miss Saigon in Ger- Dr. Cecile D. Sebastian many, Princess Nala and Rafiki in the Festival of Lion King in Hong Kong Dis- Dr. Sebastian has a clinic on Bishop Street where she provides quality pa- neyland and TiMoune in the Actor’s Actors Inc. Philippine Tour of Once One tient care with expertise in cosmetic, implant and neuromuscular dentistry. This Island. She also had her own show called Kristian Lei Show in the Disney She has received numerous awards and recognition such as Star Advertiser’s (continue on page 7) NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  7 SPECIAL FEATURE (AWARDEES....from page 6) him as the 1986 Outstanding Young Man of America. Cruise Lines. As a recording artist and composer, she released two albums 2008’s Take My Casamina earned his degree in Business Administration from the University of Hawaii Hand and 2013’s On A Personal Note. in 1976. Lei is the founder of the non-profit organization Honolulu Broadway Babies and JETH School of Continuing Education and Performing Arts, which is dedicated to individuals with FLORIST intellectual and developmental disabilities. She founded it to honor her younger brother Edith Doctolero Joshua Earl T. Hegwood, who lives with Cerebral Palsy. Doctolero is owner of Sunrise Leis and Flowers, a local flower shop lo- When she is not performing, Lei is a professional and feature film vocal coach. She cated in North King Street, Kalihi. They’re a retailer and a wholesaler. Their had clients such as Fox Studios, film Empire of the Sun, Hawaii-based all-girl band Crimson products can be found in most Foodland and Sack N Save stores within the Apple and Hollywood stars Zac Efron and Aubrey Plaza. She received multiple awards such islands of Hawaii. as one of the 2011 Hawaii’s Ten Outstanding Young Filipinos, State of Hawaii’s 2014 Out- Right after earning her degree in Elementary Education from the Univer- standing Woman Achiever in Entertainment and KHON 2’s 2015 Top 5 Influential Filipinos sity of Manila, Doctolero immigrated to Hawaii and started working at a lei in Hawai’i. stand in Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. In 1988, she opened Sunrise Leis and Flow- ers. EDUCATION Doctolero said her business is always open seven days a week to keep with the work Rev. Larry Estrella and demand. She said it took a lot of sacrifices to keep the flower shop running. For Doc- Estrella was principal at Ma’ili Bible School from 1981 to 2016. A hand- tolero, it takes patience and perseverance to keep the flower shop business going. And 32 son servant, he not only strove for the school’s accreditation, but he also years later, Sunrise Leis and Flowers still operates in its original location. taught every grade and coached its sports teams as well to fill the needs Born and raised in Ilocos Sur, Doctolero’s mother taught her how to create flower ar- when the school was short-handed or on a tight budget. Thanks to his efforts, rangements. Her company have received multiple awards including the 2018 Best Florist children and the youth have had the opportunity to be educated in a solid in Honolulu from Better Business Bureau. Christian environment. In addition, he co-founded and helped run supportive programs such as the annual LANDSCAPING/ARBORIST summer Camp Kupono and the annual Praise Festival of the American Association of Chris- Abner Undan tian Schools. Since his retirement from education in 2016, he now serves as the Senior Undan is Chairman of the Board, President and Treasurer of Trees of Ha- Pastor of Calvary Independent Church in Wahiawa. waii, the largest tree trimming company in the state. The company, a family Estrella was born in Wailuku, Maui, then went to school in Waianae, Oahu from ele- owned business, has 55 employees across Oahu and Maui. Undan started mentary to high school. He graduated from high school in 1976. He then traveled to Green- as a groundskeeper for Trees of Hawaii in 1976. He is certified as an arborist ville, South Carolina to attend Bob Jones University where he earned a degree in Church by the International Society of Arboriculture. He is a member of the Honolu- Administration with a minor in English in 1980. He was ordained in 2010. lu Mayor’s Arborist Advisory Committee, and an Advisor and Past President of the Hawaii Society of Urban Forestry Professionals. Dr. Aurelio Agcaoili Undan received many distinguished awards for his work, including a World Achieve- Dr. Agcaoili is the program coordinator of the Ilocano Department at ment Award in 1994 from the Philippine Government, a Lifetime Achievement Award the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He is also the president of the Nakem US in 2002 from the USDA Forest Service, State of Hawaii Department of Land & Natural Chapter, an academic-based global organization that promotes Ilocano lan- Resources, the Community Service Recognition Award in 2002 from the Honolulu City guage and culture. He’s a strong proponent of language justice and equality Council, and the Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year in 1999 from the Philippine Chamber of in Hawaii and the Philippines. He was a freedom-fighter during the Marcos Commerce, among others. regime in the Philippines. He earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering from the University of the Philip- He has written several volumes of one of the most comprehensive English-Ilocano pines Los Baños in Laguna, Philippines. dictionary. He’s extremely passionate about disseminating cultural and historical literacy to local-born-and-raised Filipinos in Hawaii. He’s also knowledgeable of the cultural politics LAW AND JUSTICE in the Philippines. In fact, Nakem is all about that, an academic think-tank that globally Association Justice Simeon Acoba promotes language justice and equality in the pedagogical arena. As a writer and a poet, Associate Justice Simeon Acoba was appointed to the Supreme Court he’s active in promoting Filipino diasporic literature in the US. He authored essays written of Hawaii In May 2000. He served until his retirement in 2014. Before his both in Ilocano and English. He also directs the Ilocano Drama and Film Department at the appointment to the Supreme Court, he was an associate judge on the Inter- university. mediate Court of Appeals, a circuit court judge, and a per diem district court judge. Judge Acoba served as a lecturer at the William S. Richardson School Norman Arancon of Law at the UH-Manoa. He has been a member of the University of Hawaii Arancon is an Associate Professor of Horticulture at the UH Hilo and was Board of Regents. He was the founding chair of the Hawaii Access to Justice Commission. recently named as the Chairman of the college’s Performing Arts Depart- Appointed by the President of the Bar, Acoba is co-chair of the Hawaii State Bar’s Judicial ment—a good combination of science and art. Born and raised in the Philip- Administration Committee. pines, he received his Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Environmental Sci- A few of his awards include: the 2013 recipient of the National Dwight D. Opperman ence from Ohio State University (OSU). Prior to graduating at OSU, he finished Award for Judicial Excellence from the American Judicature Society, the Lifetime Achieve- a post-graduate degree in Agricultural Studies at University of Queensland in ment Award from the Filipino Community Center, the Golden Gavel Award and the Presi- Australia. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Crop and Social Science from Xavier Univer- dent’s Award from the Hawaii State Bar Association, the Fellow of the Pacific Award from sity-Ateneo de Cagayan in the Philippines, where he began his teaching career at the age Hawaii Pacific University and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the UH Founders of 21. In 2008, Arancon joined UH-Hilo’s College of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Re- Alumni Association. source Management as a research assistant professor before being tenured as an associate Judge Acoba earned his bachelor’s at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa in 1966 and professor in 2013. Despite his role as chair of the Performing Arts department, he plans to graduated from Northwestern University School of Law in 1969. continue to teach horticulture. He received the 2015 Excellence in Teaching Award and 2013 Chancellor’s Special Rec- JUDGE WILLIAM DOMINGO ognition Award from the UH Board of Regents. Governor David Ige appointed William Domingo as District Court Judge for the First Circuit in 2015, a recognition of his excellence as a litigator. As FINANCE a lawyer, he was Grand Jury Counsel for the First Circuit Court, Hawaii State Roland Casamina Public Defender, and an Assistant Federal Public Defender, and then as a Roland Casamina is president and CEO of House of Finance, Inc. (HOF) solo practitioner. He has tried more than a hundred jury. He was named as which has been in the top 20 largest residential lenders on Oahu, according to one of Hawaii Super Lawyers in the area of criminal defense for 2008-2010. Pacific Business News. Founded in 1995, HOF has consistently ranked among Judge Domingo lectures in evidence at the William S. Richardson Law School. He is the top 20 largest residential lenders in the State of Hawaii since 2010. From a member of the Judiciary Committee on Equal Access to the Courts and of the Attorney 1976 to 1995, Casamina was the Vice President of International Savings and and Judges Assistance Program, and the Vice-Chair of the Committee on Barriers to Ac- Loan (ISL). When ISL closed, he launched the HOF. cess to Justice / Hawaii Access to Justice Commission. He is a past president of the Ha- Casamina received the 2004 Presidential Award of Honor from President Gloria Ma- waii Filipino Lawyers Association. He was the founder and past president of Sariling Gawa capagal Arroyo at the Malacañang Palace in Manila. Given once every two years, the Pres- Youth Council, Inc., past president of the Kalihi YMCA, past president of the Susannah ident of the Philippines bestows the award on deserving individuals who made significant Wesley Community Center, and mock trial coach of Farrington High School. contributions for the betterment of Filipinos in the Philippines and throughout the world. Judge Domingo received his Juris Doctor from the William Richardson School of Law In 1992, Casamina founded the Filipino Community Center and served as its president. in 1985. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Philippine Studies in 1979. He raised over $14.5 million in over 12 years, earning him the title of President Emeritus. The Fil-Com Center had its grand opening in 2002, with the Casamina Ballroom named in Judge Catherine Remigio his honor. Remigio is a Circuit Court Judge for the First Circuit (Oahu), appointed The Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawaii inducted Casamina into its by Governor David Ige in February 2017. In her former role as Deputy Chief Hall of Honor for 2014. He established a $50,000 endowed scholarship at the UH Shidler Judge/Senior Family Court Judge, she developed policies, practices, and pri- College. Kalayaan International recognized Casamina for his achievements with the 2006 orities for Family Court of the First Circuit; trained and supervised 10 full- Business and Finance of the Year and the 2003 Leadership Award. The United Filipino time Family Court judges and up to 15 Per Diem judges. As a Family Court Council of Hawaii awarded him the 1997 Business/Investment & Finance of the Year. Ha- Judge, she presided over cases in the Juvenile Division including the Perma- waii Jaycees named Roland its 2008 Man of the Year. The United States Jaycees recognized (continue on page 8) 8 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019 SPECIAL FEATURE (AWARDEES....from page 7) nency and Imua Kakoa (foster care) court programs. She was also the Administrative Judge NURSING HEALTHCARE for the Truancy Court Collaboration Project. She also was assigned to the Domestic Divi- Rosalinda Malalis sion, overseeing Family Court cases and chairing Committees to develop updated Child Rosalinda Malalis is the CEO of Nightingale Case Management, Inc. which Support Guidelines and Family Court Forms, and served on the Civil Unions Committee provides consultation, care and education to caregivers, staff and residents and Kapolei Working Group Committee. Judge Remigio was a deputy public defender of elderly patients. and practiced law as an Associate with Stirling & Kleintop and a partner at Bryant & Re- Right after graduating from San Juan de Dios School of Nursing, Manila migio. In the Judiciary, she was appointed to be a Per Diem District Court Judge, Circuit in 1968, Malalis immediately began her nursing career as an operating room Court Grand Jury Counsel, and Arbitrator for the Court-Annexed Arbitration Program. nurse at St. Mary’s Hospital in New Jersey and a staff nurse for the Neurol- Judge Remigio graduated with a B.S. in Foreign Service and Certificate in East Asian ogy Department at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York. She moved to Hawaii Studies from Georgetown University in 1987, then earned her J.D. from the William S. in 1991 where she worked as a staff nurse between the medical and surgical unit at St. Richardson School of Law in 1992. She is a member of the California and Hawaii Bars. Francis Medical Center in Liliha. She then transferred to the Ewa Beach location of St. Francis Medical Center where she worked in the Cardiac and Intensive Care Unit. Later, she Judge Randal Valenciano worked at Pali Momi Medical Center as a charge nurse in 33 Bed Cardiac Unit. After years Valenciano served in all three branches of government. From 1990 to of working as a registered nurse in multiple hospitals in Honolulu, she and her husband 2002, he held elected office as a Kauai County Council Member. Since 2007, Eugene began Nightingale Case Management. he has served as the Circuit Court Judge for the Fifth Circuit (Kauai & Niihau). She received multiple awards such as Pali Momi Medical Center’s 1996 Nurse of the He is also the Chief Judge, Administrative Judge and Senior Family Court Year, Filipino Nurses Organization of Hawaii’s 2002 Nurse of the Year, Filipino Chamber of Judge for the Fifth Circuit. Before this, he served in the Executive Branch as Commerce’s 2011 Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year, the Senate’s Filipino 2011 Entrepre- a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the County of Kauai and started his law neur of the Year and International Nurses Association’s 2012 Top Nurse Case Manager. career as a Deputy Public Defender on Oahu for the State of Hawaii. Before his appoint- ment to the Circuit Court, he had a private practice as a partner in Valenciano & Zenger PHYSICAL THERAPY and later as a sole practitioner in the Law Offices of Randal Valenciano. His professional Ariel Flores memberships include the Hawaii State Trial Judges Association, State of Hawaii Public De- Flores is a physical therapist and the co-owner and Chief Physical Thera- fender Council and Kauai Bar Association. pist at Waipahu Therapy Center since 2003. He has 30 years of experience in He received the Award of Excellence from the United Filipino Council of Hawaii and his field, working on the mainland and in Hawaii for various medical centers. Kauai Filipino Centennial Award. He earned his degree in Physical Therapy in 1991 from the University of San- Valenciano earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Washington Law School to Tomas in Manila, Philippines and a Master’s in Business Management at in 1983 and his Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Oregon in the Asian Institute of Management in Makati. While studying, he became an 1980. assistant professor at Saints John and Paul Colleges in Makati. Flores has multiple Physical Therapy licenses from Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, California and Hawaii. MEDIA PRODUCTION In 2014, he earned his doctorate in Physical Therapy from Utica College in New York. Maribel Apuya Apuya is an award-winning filmmaker known for her series of short PUBLIC SERVICE films, The Sakada Series which won an “Award of Merit” from the 2018 Im- Romy Cachola pact DOCS Awards. It also won the Best Documentary Short at the 2018 Ho- Born and raised in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, Representative Romy Cachola nolulu Film Awards, Heritage Award at the 2018 DisOrient Asian American represents District 30 which consists of Sand Island, Mokauea, Kapalama and Film Festival of Oregon and the Silver Award at the 2018 Spotlight Documen- Kalihi Kai on Oahu. He was first elected to the Legislature in 1984 where he tary Film Awards. served for 16 years until he was elected to the Honolulu City Council. After 10 The former Miss Oahu Filipina and Miss Hawaii Filipina, Apuya is a grad- years as a councilmember, he was elected to serve as a State Representative uate of University of Hawaii at Manoa, where she was both a Presidential Scholar and a of District 30 in 2010. National Science Foundation Scholar. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Comput- Cachola has chaired the House Tourism Committee, transforming the often-over- er Science and Political Science. She then spent a decade in New York City training in the- looked legislative panel into a major player the earmarked hundreds of millions of dollars ater performance and studying storytelling. Apuya attended the Neighborhood Playhouse in the State budget for various initiatives and projects that boosted Hawaii’s biggest eco- School of the Theater, a two-year acting conservatory, and worked with renowned theater nomic machine. companies such as SITI Theater, Shakespeare & Company and the Linklater Center. She is In 2000, Cachola jumped into the Honolulu City Council race and won. One of his an alumnus of UCLA’s Professional Program in Screenwriting. early accomplishments was brokering a deal for a land swap between the City and a pri- Currently, she’s pursuing a Master of Fine Arts focusing on Screenwriting at the Univer- vate developer. He termed out in 2012 and successfully ran for the State House where he sity of California, Riverside (UCR), where she was granted the Chancellor’s Distinguished is working on a bill to address Hawaii’s $14 billion unfunded liability for the Employee’s Fellowship Award. She is currently a teaching assistant of Screenwriting at the UCR. Retirement System. For the past four decades of his public service career, Cachola has introduced and Bernadette Baraquio passed legislation that provided much-needed funds for various projects that benefited In January 2004, Baraquio launched Just A Girl Productions, LLC where Filipino community groups, schools and non-profit organizations. she is the owner and manager of. She is also the Creative Director, Execu- tive Producer and Host of weekly TV magazine show, Living Local TV. Aside Reynard Graulty from that, she teaches and trains journalism students in her Media Design Graulty was born in Sampaloc, Manila and received his elementary and & Production courses at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa (UHM). She is high school education at the Ateneo de Manila University. Shortly after his also the communications consultant and video producer for the Catholic 20th birthday, he left the Philippines to attend college in upstate New York. He Diocese of Honolulu Office for Social Ministry & Office of Religious Education. received his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and History from the State In 2007, Small Business Hawaii named her the Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Her University of New York at Albany in 1970 and graduated magna cum laude. show Living Local TV received 18 Classic Telly Awards for Outstanding TV Program in mul- In 1972, he arrived in Hawaii as an Army Lieutenant stationed at Scho- tiple categories. Her TV program with UHM journalism students, UHMTV, won four Telly field Barracks. Upon completion of his Army assignment, he worked as a life insurance Awards. She also won three Telly Awards for Outstand Religious/Spirituality Programs. agent with Equitable Life before being selected to attend the William S. Richardson School Baraquio studied Communications at Seattle University then earned her Bachelor’s of Law at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. He worked for the late Senator Daniel Inouye in Journalism with Honors and minor in Music, in 1996, from UHM. She earned her in Honolulu. He ran for the State House in the Kalihi-Moanalua-Salt Lake area and was Master’s in Communications, with High Honors in 2017, also from UHM. elected in his first try. After four years in the State House, he left politics to concentrate on his legal career. He started his own law practice in Graulty, Evangelista & Quiban—a firm MEDICINE specializing in labor law. He returned to politics in 1992 and served four years in the State Dr. Anthony Guerrero Senate as Judiciary Chair, and in 1997, he was appointed by Governor Ben Cayetano to Dr. Guerrero is the first professional of Filipino ancestry named Chair of a Depart- serve as State Insurance Commissioner. Governor Cayetano subsequently appointed him ment in a University College of Medicine, not only in the State of Hawaii to the Circuit Court bench where he served as a criminal trial judge for 10 years. Governor but in the whole country. He is currently the Chair of the Department of David Ige appointed him to the Hawaii State Ethics Commission in 2015 and reappointed Psychiatry at John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) at the University him this year for another four-year term. of Hawaii of Manoa (UHM) since 2014. He is also a UH-JABSOM professor teaching in the Department of Psychiatry and Pediatrics. He also works as POSTHUMOUS AWARD FOR POLITICS & PUBLIC SERVICE a child and adult psychiatrist at Kapiolani Behavioral Health Service and Peter Aduja University of Health Partners of Hawaii. Aduja was born and raised in the small town of Salindeg in Ilocos Sur, He obtained his secondary education from St. Louis High School, Honolulu as a class Philippines. In 1927, He came to Hilo, Hawaii at age 8 with his family when valedictorian in 1988. In 1991, he graduated with a Biology degree from (UHM) with his father was assigned to Hakalau Plantation as a contract laborer for the highest honors. At age 22, he graduated from UH-JABSOM in 1994 which was then fol- Hawaii Sugar Planter Association. lowed by his residency at the UH Integrated Combined Pediatric/General Psychiatric/ He graduated from the University of Hawaii in 1944 with a degree in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Residency Program. Government and History. Aduja was then drafted into the military. He was He has authored numerous books, articles, book chapters, peer-reviewed books assigned to the 1st Filipino Infantry Regiment, which participated in the Phil- and publications. He has also been guest editor of various scientific journals and papers ippine Liberation campaign under General Douglas MacArthur. presented in various international conferences. (continue on page 9) NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  9 SPECIAL FEATURE (AWARDEES....from page 8) At war’s end, Aduja returned to Hawai`i. He taught at Na’alehu Intermediate, but where she was an assistant professor at Central Luzon State University. From 1982 to 1985, then he went to law school at Boston University on the G.I. Bill, earning his degree in Hopkins went to Kuwait as a Marketing Specialist and Economist for the Kuwait Institute for 1951. In 1953, he became the first attorney of Filipino ancestry admitted to practice Scientific Research. Finally, Hopkins moved to Hilo, Hawaii in 1988 where she worked as the in Hawai`i. He opened his first law office in Hilo. In 1954, Aduja became the first Fili- Economic Development Specialist for the Department of Research and Development for the pino-American elected to public office in the Territory of Hawai’i and the entire Unit- County of Hawaii for 23 years. Hopkins also taught undergraduate courses in farm manage- ed States. He represented Hilo in the Hawai’i Legislature from 1954 to 1956 and then ment, agriculture economics. Currently, Hopkins is an agricultural economist consultant for Kaneohe from 1966 to 1974. He was a Deputy Attorney General from 1956 through Day2 Resources LLC since 2012. 1960. In 1960, he became the first Filipino-American appointed as District Court Magis- Hopkins received multiple awards including the Congress of Visayan Organizations’ trate for the First Circuit Court in Hawai`i. He served there until 1962. He was a delegate 2004 Lapu-Lapu Award, United Filipino Council of Hawaii’s 2008 Progress Award and the to the Hawai`i Constitutional Convention in 1968. University of Hawaii at Hilo’s 2009 Outstanding Filipino Leaders Award. Aduja served in many community organizations, including veterans’ organizations, Filipino organizations, the Red Cross, and Salvation Army, among others. In 1986, he Danny Villaruz received a Merit Award from the Chamber of Commerce of Hawai`i. Aduja had resumed Villaruz is the President and CEO of Villaruz Financial Services LLC, which his law practice in 1962, this time in Kalihi, where he continued until November 2006 helps clients find and secure the financial services, products, and strategies. He when he passed away. is also a real estate salesperson with Oahu Realty. He was Senior Accountant for the Hawaii Department of Health, Family Health Service Division, and Se- PUBLISHER’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD nior Field Tax Auditor for the Department of Taxation. In San Francisco, Califor- Pacita Saludes nia, he was a Field Auditor with the Office of the Inspector General, Region IX, Saludes is a life-long creative writer, poet, short storyteller, essayist, for the Department of Housing & Urban Development. He was President of the Ilocos Surian playwright and columnist who writes in Ilokano. Born and raised in Ilocos Association of Hawaii, Oahu Filipino Community Council, Santanians Association of Hawaii; Norte, Saludes spent her academic years studying and teaching in the prov- Chair of the Council of Past Presidents for the Oahu Filipino Community Council and on the ince of Abra. She finished her high school education at Colegio del Sagra- Committee on Constitution & By-Laws for the United Filipino Council of Hawaii; Treasurer of do Corazon in Bangued then received her degree in Education, Major in the Coalition of Filipino Solidarity; Commander, Deputy Commander, and also Auditor of the English and Minor in Science at the Divine Word College of Bangued. In Knights of Rizal, Hawaii chapter. He has chaired and volunteered on seven medical and edu- 1970, she migrated to Hawaii with her family. In Hawaii, she organized GUMIL Hawaii cation missions to the numerous towns in the Philippines with the Ilocos Surian Association in 1972 and acted as president for more than 30 years. She also has written for several of Hawaii. He is an Institute of Human Services volunteer feeding the homeless and hungry. newspapers and magazines. Currently, Saludes writes for the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle. Villaruz earned his Master of Business Administration a Hawaii Pacific University and She is also a highly recognized literary writer and playwright. She has written plays and his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the Philippine School of Business Ad- directed them for annual programs of GUMIL Hawaii and Fiesta ti Kailokuan of AKA. She ministration in Manila. also edited and co-edited books that were published by GUMIL Hawaii. She also served as an announcer and program host for multiple radio stations. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION—Community Service Saludes received an award from the late Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos for Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls her role in preserving Ilokano culture and arts in the state of Hawaii. She was an Out- Founded in 1997, Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls (BCWW) is standing Writer of the Year of GUMIL Hawaii for several years. Among other awards she the only organization that gives free medical and dental services received: United Filipino Council’s 2001 Progress Award in Arts and Entertainment, and to legal immigrants including the marginalized in Hawaii. Estab- the 2002 City and County of Honolulu’s award for the preservation of culture and arts lished by the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii (PMAH), the through drama presentations. BCWW is a non-profit community-based healthcare project. They also collaborate with the Hawaii State Department of Health’s Lanakila Easy Access Program. UNSUNG HEROES When a federal law was passed in 1996 barring Medicaid benefits from 800 to 1,000 Dr. Amelia Jacang immigrants who were already enrolled in the QUEST program, PMAH (under the leadership Dr. Jacang is an accomplished board certified pediatrician and a Fellow of Dr. Charlie Sonido) initiated BCWW on April 17, 1997. In October 1997, the first official with the American Academy of Pediatrics. She has received distinguished project included volunteer dentists to provide emergency dental care to patients. It later awards from the Philippines Medical Association of Hawaii in 2009 and the expanded to offer specialized services such as physical examination for school and employ- Hawaii Filipino Women’s Club in 2007. Governor George Ariyoshi appoint- ment, counseling services, dental and other services. BCWW conducts community health ed her to the Board of Health in 1979 and the Drug Selection Board in 1985. fairs in Honolulu and reaches out to other islands for consultations with free donated-med- She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Hawaii chapter icines, practical health demonstrations and education. of the American Academy of Pediatrics, St. Francis Health Care System Board, Hawaii BCWW gets its funding for its project from the funds raised by Doctors-On-Stage pro- Medical Association, Honolulu County Medical Society, and Philippine Medical Associ- ductions, a thematic musical production choreographed and performed by talented doctors ation of Hawaii, which she has served as past president. Dr. Jacang has been a member with their family and friends. of the Ohana Medical Mission and was formerly a board member of the Aloha Medical Mission. She is part of the Filipino ministry of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, was Ohana Medical Missions Inc president of the Filipino Women’s League and of Annak Ti Batac Hawaii. Founded in 2009, Ohana Medical Missions Inc (OMM) is the Dr. Jacang earned her M.D. in 1963 from the University of East Ramon Magsaysay missionary arm of the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines. She served her internship at Kuakini Hospi- (PMAH). The organization has gone to 14 medical missions cov- tal, her pediatric residency at New York Polyclinic Hospital and St. Christopher’s Hospital ering 85 urban and remote cities and towns, serving a total of for Children in Philadelphia, then completed her fellowship in pediatric pharmacology at around 90,000 patients in the marginal population of the Philippines. From Ilocos Norte and the University of Oklahoma Medical Center in Oklahoma City. Tacloban to Samal Island and Dagupan, these places are usually chosen by the mission spon- sors from communities in Honolulu. The mission sponsors also facilitate working relations Dr. Carolina Davide with local government officials, barangays and the business sector of the area. Dr. Davide is a board-certified physician in Family Medicine in private For the past 10 years, OMM went to two calamity medical missions: Typhoon Juan practice on Oahu. She trained in the Philippines doing her internship with in 2010 and Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. Two weeks after Typhoon Haiyan hit eastern Leyte the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center in Quezon City, and and northern Cebu, 50 volunteers went on a calamity mission in these affected areas. With a residency in Family Practice at the Metro Cebu Community Hospital in the financing help from PMAH and various community donors, the calamity mission served Cebu City. In the U.S., she completed her internship and residency in Fami- an estimated 6000 Haiyan survivors. OMM also established two clinics in eastern Leyte to ly Practice at the University of Illinois at Chicago – Christ Hospital. provide follow up medical care to its communities. In addition, OMM biennially visits two Dr. Davide was elected as President of the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii, Vice below poverty lines foster areas: Bagong Silang, a squatter-relocation area in Caloocan City President of both Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls and the Philippine Medical Association of and Payatas, the dumpsite district of Metro Manila. Hawaii Foundation. She was a member of the Board of Directors for both Ohana Medical In addition to donating medicines and medical supplies, OMM set aside funds for hu- Missions, Inc. and Bayanihan Clinic Without Walls, and of the Board of Governors of the Phil- manitarian gifts such as rice and canned goods for those who are in need. When the oppor- ippine Medical Association of Hawaii. She is a member of the Philippine Medical Association tunity arises, transportable medical machines are donated to the deserving medical organi- of Hawaii, American Medical Association, and American Academy of Family Physicians. zation and hospitals in the Philippines. Dr. Davide earned her M.D. from the Cebu Institute of Medicine in Cebu City in 1983 and her B.S. in Biology from the University of the Philippines Los Baños in Laguna COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION—Culture Promotion in 1979. Filipino-American Historical Society of Hawaii Organized in 1980, the Filipino-American Historical Society of Ha- Margarita “Dayday” Hopkins waii (FAHSOH) brings together individuals who cares about preserving Hopkins has more than 40 years of experience as an Agricultural Econ- and learning more about the Filipino history and experience in Hawaii. omist. She has conducted surveys and research projects on the agricultural In 2006, it launched the digital archive center, efilarchives.org, to fill the economics of different places such as Nueva Ecija, Makati City and Cagayan void in materials that are needed to develop an awareness and appreciation of the histo- de Oro in the Philippines, Kuwait, Alabama and Hawaii. ry of Filipinos in Hawaii. The virtual archive now contains documents that are collectively She authored or co-authored papers in international journals and sym- priceless--from Ilokano poems to rondalla music, from old books and newspapers to family posia proceedings. From 1976 to 1979, she moved to Auburn, Alabama, photos and records. where she became a research associate for the Department of Fishers and The FAHSOH inspires pride and a sense of contribution to community through exhibits Allied Aquaculture at Auburn University. She then moved back to Makati, Philippines (continue on page 13) 10 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019 NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  11 12 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019 KAKATALK through this course that past 2019 Filipino-American History Month students first heard and appre- ciated Filipino-American his- 2008 Hawaii State Legislature and the United States. tory and struggles. and Beyond passed a bill, HB 3343 HD1, I note that Maui kicked-off On Kauai, two films by Stephanie Castillo were shown By Carolyn Weygan-Hildebrand designating the month of Oc- again with a flag-raising cere- tober as Filipino-American mony featuring the Philippine at the Kukui Grove Center hen a new It is also referred to as Filipi- History Month. The bill was national flag. The community last October 23. They are the co-worker no-American Heritage month. passed unanimously by the also celebrated with the Annu- “An Untold Triumph: Amer- from Europe Two authoritative organiza- House and Senate and signed al Maui Fil-Am Heritage Fes- ica’s Filipino Soldiers” and asked me tions on Filipino-American into law by the Governor on tival last October 12, an event Remember the Boys, A Story why there history explain how October April 15, 2008. The legislation that drew residents and tourists of Hawaii Filipino Soldiers W are so many became Filipino-American was introduced by then State who have an affinity for Filipi- in World War II.” These films Filipinos in History Month (FAHM). Representative Joey Manah- no culture. were completed in 2006 and Hawaii, I was reminded that In its website, FAHSOH an (D29-Sand Island, Kalihi On the Big Island, the Ha- 2007, respectively. Stephanie we all need to continue educat- or the Filipino-American His- Kai, Kapalama) and members waii Community College host- Castillo has apparently start- ing ourselves about our histo- torical Society of Hawaii ex- of the Filipino Caucus. Ac- ed the 31st annual Pamantasan ed a film called “Hanapepe ry here and find ways to share plains that October has been cording to the signed law, the Conference last October 18. Massacre Mystery” with a tar- that with others. celebrated as Filipino-Ameri- month of October shall com- The conference dedicated one get completion of 2024. The October, of course, has can history month as far back memorate the contributions entire track on history. Still, film is about one of the darkest become a festival of Filipi- as 1988. However, the Hawaii of Filipino-Americans to the the Pamantasan gathering re- times of labor history, the Han- no-American history events. State Legislature was the first history and heritage of Hawaii mained steadfast in its mission apepe Massacre of September Formally, October is Filipi- governing body to official- and the United States. of advocating for increased 9, 1924. In 1924, at the height no-American History Month. ly recognize this month. The The website of the Filipino representation of Filipi- of labor-management conflict, Americans National Historical no-Americans and Philippine 16 Filipino sugarcane workers Society (FAHSOH) adds that courses in higher education, were massacred but little has a Filipino American History as well as to the recognition been written and said about it. Month in October commemo- of Filipino achievements. Dr. The whereabouts of the bodies rates the first recorded presence Kevin Nadal keynoted and have been a mystery. Howev- of Filipinos in the continental paid tribute to Filipina women er, various mainstream media United States. This occurred by referencing the month also outlets broke the news that a on October 18, 1587, when as FilipinA-American HER- research team might have lo- “Luzones Indios” came ashore story month. He announced cated the remains of the 12 in from the Spanish galleon Nues- that the FANHS Biennial the cemetery facing the Hana- tra Senora de Esperanza and Conference will be held on pepe Bay. landed in California’s Morro July 15-18, 2020, in Honolu- On Oahu, the FAHSOH Bay. In 2009, U.S. Congress lu, which should offer more featured “Makibaka:Huwag recognized October as Filipino opportunities for local island Matakot!”, a video account of American History Month in the residents to attend such a na- a long struggle against eviction United States. Various states, tional gathering. Nadal told his by some 31 Filipino families of counties, and cities in the U.S. audience that each one’s story then Ota camp in Waipahu. The have established proclamations is part of history. He exhorted long but successful struggle took and resolutions declaring ob- those who do not know their place in the 1970s amidst the servance of Filipino American family history to ask their par- displacement of tenants in Chi- History Month.” ents or grandparents for sto- natown (1972), Kalama Valley Like in previous Octobers, ries, including how they came (1970), and Waiahole-Waikane there were events and activi- to Hawaii. He advocated for (1973) and others. The protest- ties undertaken by different or- Ethnic Studies in every cam- ing residents were able to keep ganizations across the islands pus, explaining that it has been their homes and their cultur- al practices, including raising vegetable backyard gardens. Interestingly, for its October monthly meeting, the Filipi- no Association of University Women (FAUW), featured a talk by Angel Ramos on the top- ic of “Garden to Table” heritage of Filipino sakada families. As for me, this year’s further understanding of our Filipino-American history came earlier and focused on ones that can be divisive if we do not learn how to con- front them with aloha and community healing in mind. Foremost in my mind is the need for the decolonial lens in understanding our history and our connection with the Kana- ka Maoli’s struggle to protect the Mauna Kea. More explo- ration on this is required. NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  13 NEWS FEATURE Sienna Aczon: a Force to Reckon with in “DEVATHA: The Awakening”

ienna Aczon movie is released. recipient. A graduate of Sarah will be the first The storyline of the film: Lawrence College in Bronx- Fil-Am actress the life of Milati (Sienna Ac- ville, New York and the British to star in a fan- zon) as a high school girl American Drama Academy in tasy action ad- whose life turns upside down London, England, she studied S venture film in after a visit from A’djudan experimental and classical the- “DEVATHA: (Manuel Baez), a mystical atre before being cast as a lead The Awakening,” premiering monk, who prophesizes that role in the feature film. in Hawaii theaters and the film she is the reincarnated Goddess Sienna started performing festival circuit worldwide in that will save the world from at a young age through acting the Spring 2020. the Seven Deadly Sins Beings. in school and community plays, Aczon says she is excited Milati has to make sense of all and singing in the church choir. this film is getting a chance to of this while dealing with her She graduated from Punahou be told starring a Fil-Am. overprotective aunt, school School. In college, she landed “I hope fellow Filipinos bullies, and an underground lead roles in the school’s theatre can watch DEVATHA and feel organization called True Order and film programs including empowered to pursue their under the leadership of a Being the titular character of Lorca’s art, or whatever their craft named Envy. “The House of Bernarda Alba.” is, seeing that the lead role is This feature film will be the She also studied classical the- Filipina-American. The enter- first installment of modern day atre and Shakespeare. tainment industry has a long epic “DEVATHA”. Written and After finishing her de- way to go until true diversity directed by Edo Natasha and gree, Aczon returned home to is fulfilled, but I’m hoping that co-directed by Quantae Love, Honolulu where she acted in my work can help to propel the the multi-film series will be a “Empowering People of Color Filipino community forward.” modern-day interpretation of Hawaii’s (EPOCH) “Bengal Aczon is also featured on mythology and religious epics. Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo;” and the DEVATHA soundtrack’s A Filipina-American ac- short film “Mama’s Wish” (dir. through this that Aczon met siennaaczon.weebly.com or @ “Get Back Up” with hip- tor/singer born and raised in Shaneika Aguilar), which was Quantae Love and Edo Nata- miss.sepa on Instagram. hop artist Treyvon Love. The Honolulu, Hawaii, Aczon is later featured at the 2018 Ha- sha of Devatha, and was cast For additional information soundtrack will be released a two-time Hawaii State The- waii International Film Festival as the lead Milati. about DEVATHA visit: @de- digitally a week before the atre Council Po’okela Award (HIFF). Offstage, she tried her For additional information vathamovie on Facebook and hand at assist-directing—it was about SIENNA ACZON visit: Instagram. (AWARDEES....from page 19) (e.g. Arts as a Weapon: Cartoons of Corky Trinidad), publications (e.g. Unbending Cane: Pablo Manlapit: A Filipino Labor Leader in Hawaii), forums (e.g. Street Kid to Governor), workshops and videos (e.g. Hawaii Masters of Eskrima) and others. FAHSOH makes it possible to see how the community is organized in its totality—from the past to the present, from the ordinary to the larger than life, from arts to politics and more. The organization is currently led by Clement Bautista and Gina Ver- gara-Bautista.

Filipino Association of University Women The Filipino Association of University Women (FAUW) is a non-profit organiza- tion established in 1987 that promotes and strengthens Filipino identity in Hawai`i through initiatives in culture, the arts, and education. Since 2014, the FAUW collaborated with the Honolulu Museum of Art’s Doris Duke Theater to host the Filipino Film Festival. It also has held poetry workshops and literary readings since its inception in 1987. Recently, they assisted Farrington High School’s ELL students in book publishing and elevated the students’ voices by orga- nizing poetry readings at the Hawaii State Library on May 2019. Lectures and panel discussions are also staples with the organiza- tion. In 2016, the historian Ambeth Ocampo’s lectures titled Marcos Di- aries, Mukhang Pera and Rizal in Dapitan were held in various venues. In March 2016, the FAUW launched Baro at Habi—Visual Clues to the Fili- pino Culture—a three-week exhibit held at the Hawaii State Library and the book launch of PINAY: Culture Bearers of the Filipino Diaspora—the latest publication of the group. Among its other publications are Timek Iti Agtutubo, Mabuhay to Aloha, Filipina and Kayumangi Presence. It also released DVDs on Filipino folk tales. FAUW members were also trained to serve as docents to the Philip- pine and Renaissance galleries at the Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA. Co-sponsored with Reiyukai America, the Letter to my Parents Contest and `Ohana Art Contest are held every year. The project encourages Ha- waii’s young people to strengthen family relationships. The FAUW participates in the BOH Family Sunday at HoMA and rec- reates the Christmas traditions of the Philippines such as parol-making and others. 14 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019 AS I SEE IT Veterans Should Be Remembered in 1971. But that change lasted involvement of veterans and the values of integrity, respect, Every Day only a few years, and in 1975 the community to serve those responsibility, courage, patri- Congress moved the date back in need. otism, and sincerity propped World War I hostilities be- to November 11, effective as Held in downtown Hilo up for students to appreciate, tween the Allied nations and of 1978. The change caused a last year, the parade has grown learn and live by. By Elpidio R. Estioko Germany in 1918. Veterans lot of confusion as many states into one of Hawaii’s largest Well, others were given Day 2019, however, should not disagreed with this decision, Veterans Day parades. This options to do such as visiting ith their be mistaken with Memorial so in 1975, President Gerald event can only be held with the a veteran and spending a day undying Day – Veterans Day celebrates R. Ford signed Public Law generous financial and volun- with them and their families. service to the service of all United States which stated that Veterans Day teer support of local businesses These immersion activities the coun- military veterans while Memo- would, again, be observed on and individuals. Our commit- will also introduce the students try filled rial Day honors those who died November 11 from 1978 on- tee members are all volunteers to the life and virtues of the W with solemn while in military service. wards to present. who give their time and effort veterans. pride in their heroism with- The history of Veterans Traditionally Veterans Day to support and organize the Or, they can lay wreaths out any reservation, veterans Day dates back to a very sig- 2019 is viewed as a time of Hawaii Island Veterans Day and flowers to the tombs of should not be remembered nificant number - the 11th hour honor and remembrance. An- Parade because of its impor- veterans as a sign of respect only for one day. They need to of the 11th day of the 11th nually, an official wreath-lay- tance in recognizing our Ha- and remembrance to their ser- be honored and remembered month of 1918 - when an ar- ing ceremony is held each Vet- waii Island veterans and their vice to the country. every day! mistice between Germany and erans Day at the Tomb of the families and working with At this point, I would like Yes, that’s how veter- the Allied nations came into ef- Unknowns in Arlington Na- the community to help many to recognize my colleague-vet- ans should be remembered fect, bringing an end to World tional Cemetery (in Virginia), more. eran Denis Marks, US Army and revered… not a day or War I. On November 11, 1919, while parades, church services I planned to celebrate and my son Em 7 John Edward two although November 11 Armistice Day was proclaimed and other celebrations are held the day in my classroom by Estioko, US Navy, now a res- is reserved as Veterans Day, by President Woodrow Wilson throughout the United States. assigning students to vari- ident of Jacksonville, Florida a federal holiday (previously and commemorated United In many places the American ous activities. My planned married to Alvi Tesoro Estio- known as Armistice Day) ob- States’ veterans who served in flag is hung at half-mast. A options are inviting veterans ko, RN, with children Kayla, served annually, not only in World War I for the first time. period of silence lasting two to speak before the class and 16 and Bibay, 14. the United States but in many In 1926, the United States minutes may be held at 11am. share with them their expe- Thank you for your ser- other countries throughout the Congress officially recognized Additionally, many schools riences and insights. This vice to the country! world. In the United States, it November 11 as the end of choose to mark the occasion worked so well last year so it Let’s join the 2019 Hawaii is a day that honors all men World War I and declared that with special assemblies or oth- will be fun. Island Veterans Day Parade on and women that have served as day as the anniversary of the er activities. Another is for them to in- Saturday, November 9, 2019 at military veterans in the United armistice. The Hawai‘i Island Com- terview a veteran and report 10:00 A.M. States Armed Forces. In the year 1954, Armi- munity will be honoring our to class what they gathered. See you there, folks! I’ve always respected our stice Day officially became Military Veterans on Saturday, Again, this will give the whole veterans because they sac- known as Veterans Day and November 9, 2019 at 10:00 class a chance to learn the vir- ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO was a AM. at the 2019 Hawaii Island tues and core values these vet- veteran journalist in the Philippines rificed their lives, including from then on, became a holi- and an award-winning journalist their families, as they pledged day honoring American vet- Veterans Day Parade. The pa- erans lived for which they can here in the US. For feedbacks, com- and served the country during erans of all wars. In 1968, the rade’s theme, “Celebrate Ser- emulate. Just like in the past, ments… please email the author at their tour of duty. Uniforms Holiday Bill made vice”, focused on the increased this also worked so well that [email protected]). Veteran’s Day 2019 is also an attempt to move Veterans the anniversary of the signing Day to the fourth Monday of HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS of the armistice, which ended October which bill took effect KOR-Aloha Chapter Launches A three-member panel of Letter-Writing Contest judges composed of established writers and authors will be formed By Raymund Llanes Liongson to judge the entries. The contest n February 22, 1887, The Knights of Rizal-Alo- criteria are as follows: content and when the Philippines ha Chapter is sponsoring a let- relevance to the theme, 40%; orig- Owas still under the Span- ter-writing contest that invites inality, 25%; voice and style, 25%; ish colonial rule, Dr. Jose P. Rizal all Hawaii residents to write an and mechanics, 10%. Prizes for sent a letter to the women of imagined letter to the Filipino each category (youth and adult) Malolos (Bulacan, Philippines), women. The contest is divided are first place, $300; second place, exhorting them to be courageous into two categories: youth (13- $200, and third place, $100. All and strong in character. Beside 24 years old) and adult (25 years winners and participants will re- his two popular novels, Noli Me old and over). Entries must be in ceive a certificate of achievement Tangere and El Filibusterismo, English, between 1,000 to 1,500 and participation, respectively. this letter remains to be one of words submitted in Word docu- Entries may also be eligible for the most critical and rousing writ- ment, double-spaced. All entries inclusion in a future publication. ings of Rizal, denouncing bigotry should be sent as an attachment For inquiries, contact and blind faith and stirring up the via email okor.aloha@gmail. Raymund Liongson at (808) women to be independent, princi- com no later than January 15, 381-4315, rliongson@gmail. pled, and valorous. 2020. Awarding of prizes will be com; Jun Colmenares, (808) If Rizal were to write to the on February 22, coinciding with 838-9775, juncolme@yahoo. Filipino women today, both in the 133rd anniversary of Rizal com; Fred Magdalena, (808) the Philippines and abroad, what sending his letter to the women 956-6086, [email protected]; or would he tell them given the cur- of Malolos, the venue of which Jun Suela, (808) 228-0665, sue- rent realities and development? will be announced at a later time. [email protected]. NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  15 CANDID PERSPECTIVES On Lynching—Trump’s Inadvertent Filipino American History Lesson; Plus, a Word on That’s called wanting to in the 1920s and 1930s and burned down a house that Tulsi have your metaphor and eat brought with them the tactics killed a two-year-old Filipi- By Emil Guillermo mative action recipient from it too. of racial terror. no boy. Pin Point, Georgia turned It only shows that Trump In her groundbreaking Just a few overlooked n case you conservative jurist—still had will do or say anything to history, “Little Manila is In bits from Filipino American didn’t know, Fil- an ounce of credibility as a avoid eating what many see the Heart” (Duke Universi- history. ipino Americans person of color. The mere is his just desserts–impeach- ty Press), Mabalon spoke of were among the mention of lynching was a ment cake. the anti-Filipino incidents WHY THE VIOLENCE? lynched in the showstopper. But saying “lynching” throughout Northern Cali- The reason for the vio- I U.S. Trump, however, is no crosses the rhetorical line. fornia: “On June 14, 1930, lence was clear: Filipinos And since person of color. Unless or- It’s such an odd meta- after it was claimed that he were seen as threats to the October is Filipino Ameri- ange counts. phor for Trump, a man with had been seen with white mostly white workers in the can History Month, it’s defi- Still, it’s interesting how ample rope and in control girls, the mutilated body of fields. Coming to America nitely worth noting, espe- Trump could be so figurative of a cheering mob of bullies Robert B. Martin, a local as colonized nationals, the cially now that the president to describe the impeachment ready to pounce. lumber worker and Filipino Filipinos weren’t traditional has used the term. process, and yet so literal in A Trump rally of his base veteran of World War I, was immigrants. They were the It was in a tweet last his own defense. has more in common with found hanging in a tree in competition in all aspects of week where Trump tried to Despite the rough tran- modern lynching than you Susanville, a hundred miles life from the workplace to link it with impeachment--- script, statements from his think. A controlled mob led north of Stockton.” the bedroom. to better communicate his chief of staff, and the current by a mobster would smell as Many lynchings weren’t It was also the so-called own sense of victimhood. damning testimony of U.S. sweet? reported in the mainstream Roaring ‘20s, a gilded age of You mean Trump was Ambassador to Ukraine Bill Historically, lynching media at the time. But they prosperity. victimized like the Kurds Taylor, Trump continues to was used to intimidate and were reported in the ethnic If you’re taking part in whom he abandoned when insist that no “quid pro quo” communicate fear in the press, specifically, a Filipi- the good times, no problem. he withdrew troops in North- exists, as if the specific ab- hearts of people of color. no newspaper in the Cen- If not, you’re resentful of ern Syria? sence of the Latin phrase in- From 1882 to 1968, there tral Valley known as Three everything standing in your Was Trump victimized stantly exonerates him. were 4,743 lynchings, ac- Stars. In August 1930, the way. Filipinos included. like the families he ripped A “nothing burger,” as cording to the NAACP, with paper reported a contractor It brings to the fore the apart when he stripped moth- he would say, but an inap- roughly 75 percent of them driving north of Stockton in irony of Trump’s choice of ers from their children at the propriate metaphor given the African American. Lodi who saw two Filipinos the word lynching. border as people sought asy- actual phone call Trump had Here are a few Filipino hanging from a tree and one In exploring Trump and lum? with Ukranian President Zel- ones. burned body propped against racism, New York Times op- No, those are serious ensky involving U.S. mili- a tree trunk. ed columnist David Leon- things the president actually tary aid in exchange for dirt JIM CROWPINO IN CALIFORNIA The incident coincides hardt recently cited Andrew did. on a political opponent. The late San Francis- with a national revival of the Cherlin, a sociologist at Don’t let the use of Trump’s “perfect” and co State University history Ku Klux Klan in the 1920s, Johns Hopkins. “like” fool you. Those aren’t “beautiful” call? It is painful professor Dawn Mabalon with one rally in Stockton Cherlin’s work examines metaphors. to watch Trump’s ongoing wrote about how the white drawing more than a thou- Trump’s appeal to working The president’s use of insistence and defense of a migrants from the South and sand people. Mabalon cites class whites in 2016. He lynching is a metaphorical lie. Midwest came to California an incident where the KKK writes that Trump’s “mas- crime, but one still worth (continue on page 17) correcting. Trump was es- sentially saying he was like a person of color. Was this a delayed example of em- pathy? Or was this some demented ploy for minority voters? His tweet referring to lynching showed no irony. Invoking the term is straight out of the Clarence Thomas playbook. You’ll re- call when sexual harassment came up during his confir- mation hearings, Thomas fought back at his accuser, Anita Hill, and declared the process a “high-tech lynch- ing.” Even though Hill was credible, Thomas–the affir- 16 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019 PERSONAL REFLECTIONS LEARNING FROM THE BARRETTOS By Seneca Moraleda-Puguan It’s easy for us to say that people should just take high earning from and the world are facing that roads, do what well-adjusted the…what? Are should be discussed and far people do, but sometimes you you serious? more newsworthy. Why write got to think how unfairly deep You might about this seemingly trivial those wounds are for the sisters. ask. matter? But such is public life, such is L Yes, you read Following the dispute showbiz life. Imagine the most it right. Learning among the Barrettos made emotionally hurt person that from the infamous Barretto sis- me realize important things you personally know, and throw ters whose feud has become a about life. Their family is just that person into a world where national interest, it involved the a reflection of what’s happen- fantasy and reality blur, and ev- President of the Philippines. ing in many families, not just erything goes haywire. They have become talk of the in the Philippines but also I started this essay of sorts town that their presence in so- around the world. Their story each other, encourage one an- gets left behind.” with the premise that I’m—and cial media has reached humon- is the story of many. The only other and lay our lives for each A high school classmate probably you, too—a shame- gous heights. I’m no fan of the difference is, the dysfunc- other. and friend of mine, Marck Ri- less fan of showbiz. Showbiz Barrettos or show business in tionality of their family is in But with the Barrettos, this morin, wrote this on his Face- magnifies insight, that much I general but I must admit that full view for the world to see is simply not the case. Pride book page. His sentiments know. But take away the glam- Gretchen, Marjorie and Clau- while ours is hidden. takes over. Self comes first be- about the Barrettos perfectly or, the awards, the shows, the dine Barretto are some of the Every single family is im- fore the other. Family is just a express what’s in my heart. adoring mobs, and the Barret- most beautiful faces in Philip- perfect. Every family has dis- word that doesn’t exist in their With his permission, let me tos don’t really have that much pine showbiz. putes and unresolved issues. reality. And it’s saddening and share it with you. in common with us who have I am not here to delve into Parents and children have mis- heartbreaking. The Barrettos lived lives behind closed doors, the details of the family feud. understandings. Sibling rivalry have the most beautiful faces, I’m a bit shameless about it with us who didn’t have food There are so many more im- is normal. But at the end of the they have the fame and wealth all: I am a showbiz fan. Show- galore but had loving families portant issues that the nation day, family is family. We love that are to be envied but they biz, in many ways, lends insight and friends. You see three wom- are broken, empty and hurting. to the extremes of life that are en who grew up before us, but They have become an object of bordering on cartoonish, but never had the chance to grow ridicule and mockery. But who are within the realm of possi- up. Three women we loved to are they to blame? They grew bility. Like love triangles, petty varying degrees, but never real- up in a family where love is fights, and yes: these ridiculous ly knew love the way most of us missing, favoritism exists, and moments of life thrust into the do. Take away the showbiz and division thrives. spotlight. It’s a character study, the Barrettos evoke the sadness Looking at them, it makes really. of why it’s important for people me want to fight more for my But for all the “obsession” to see their families, to have family and raise my children in and “fixation,” it is mildly de- well-adjusted lives, to know love so they would learn to love. pressing. Before we dismiss this love and to be loved. I told myself to never show par- as another distraction—and Marjorie was right to ask: tiality and favoritism toward yes, we should—one should when could Gretchen start my children, instead love them take a peek at the lives of the healing so that she can stop equally. The Barrettos make me Barrettos anyway, leading up hurting everybody? Of course, want to forgive my brother who to this. healing takes time. But think has hurt our parents in ways You have Gretchen: a girl about it: when you live and he’ll never know and love my who didn’t have much of a laugh and love before the peo- siblings and protect them the childhood growing up, provid- ple, in all your glory in the sil- best way I can. Just like what ed for her family in ways we ver screen and the idiot box and Lilo said in the animation ‘Lilo can’t think of for our daugh- everything in between, healing and Stitch’, “Ohana means ters, and lives on those fringes never happens. The hurting family. Family means nobody of morals—the kabit, the bear- happens far more often. er of a scarlet letter—perhaps Imagine the Barrettos for because of how broken she a second. Forget the memes, has been. You have Marjorie: the excess of media coverage, a girl who for the most part the Instagram stories. They lives in regret and mistakes, are who they are: hurt people. someone who didn’t reach the And hurt people hurt peo- same heights as her sisters but ple. whose indiscretions reached the same level of notoriety. My friend is right. Hurt You have a girl like Clau- people hurt people. So let’s not dine: someone who had such be quick to judge but instead a promising career that ebbed have compassion on the sisters. and flowed with the times, who And let’s hope that there will had her love taken away from be healing and reconciliation, her so early on and had to live and for their broken family to with many more wounds for be made whole. Isn’t this our years to come. prayer for our families too? NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  17 LEGAL NOTES Courts Block New Public Charge Rule would make it a lot easier for law requires aliens to rely on effective date of October 15, from developing countries and the government to deny green their own capabilities and the 2019. They also cannot require will jeopardize the health of card applications because the resources of their families, the submission of Form I-944, children when their families applicant used public benefits sponsors, and private organi- Declaration of Self Sufficien- avoid the use of nutritional and in the past or is currently using zations in their communities cy from applicants, nor make health programs because of the By Atty. Reuben S. Seguritan public benefits. to succeed. An objective judi- changes to other government rule, even when some of them The blocked public charge ciary will see that this rule lies forms pertaining to the past or are US citizen children. n October 11, rule states that persons who squarely within long-held ex- current use of government as- It is estimated that the 2019, the Unit- used or are using public ben- isting law”. sistance such as food stamps, public charge rule would af- ed States Dis- efits such as Medicaid, food The public charge rule Medicaid, welfare, and hous- fect about 1.2 million ap- trict Courts for stamps, welfare and housing would consider a totality of cir- ing assistance. plicants annually, including the Southern assistance or those deemed cumstances in assessing green Critics of the Trump ad- about 500,000 who are already O District of New likely to use these public ben- card applicants based on a list ministration applauded the in the country. Immigration York, Eastern District of Wash- efits in the future, will not be of positive and negative fac- court decisions. They said this experts said the public charge ington and Northern District of granted green cards or US tors. Negative factors include public charge rule seeks to dis- rule would disproportionately California temporarily stopped permanent residence status, being unemployed, not com- courage immigrants and their affect applicants from Africa the implementation and en- even if they are not primarily pleting high school and lacking family members from access- and Latin America and deny forcement of the Final Rule of dependent on the government proficiency in English, Assets, ing food and health care, even their green card applications the US Department of Home- or in long-term institutional personal debts, and credit score when they are entitled to these because they used public ben- land Security entitled “Inad- care. The Rule also requires are also taken into account. benefits. There were numerous efits in the past or are currently missibility on Public Charge the submission of a new form, Judge Daniels who penned the reports of a significant decline using public benefits. Grounds”. This is known as namely, Form I-944, Decla- New York decision stopping in enrollment for federal nu- The case is still ongoing. the “public charge rule”. Two ration of Self Sufficiency and the public charge rule, said that trition programs for pregnant The government is expected of the injunctions are effective makes changes to the Form “It is simply offensive to con- women and children beginning to appeal the decisions in order throughout the United States. I-485 Application to Register tend that English proficiency is last year when the rule was to implement the public charge The definition of “public Permanent Residence or Ad- a valid predictor of self-suffi- first proposed. It is likely that rule. charge” is a person who is pri- just Status for all applicants for ciency.” people abandoned health, nu- marily dependent on the gov- permanent residence. The Court decisions pre- trition and housing programs REUBEN S. SEGURITAN has ernment for subsistence, either USCIS Acting Direc- vent the USCIS and the De- out of fear or confusion of the been practicing law for over 30 years. For further information, by receiving public cash assis- tor Ken Cuccinelli said be- partment of Homeland Secu- public charge rule. They add- you may call him at (212) 695 tance or long-term institutional fore the case was decided rity from implementing the ed that the public charge rule 5281 or log on to his website at care. The public charge rule that, “Long-standing federal rule even if it has a stated an discriminates against people www.seguritan.com

(CANDID PERSPECTIVES: SENATE DEMOCRATS....from page 15) HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS terstroke was to recognize the ONE WORD ON TULSI GABBARD desperation of the white work- Her announcement to not Chamber Accepting Applications for ing class over the deteriorat- seek re-election for Congress ing industrial economy and to concentrate on her sec- Grants for Health-related Initiatives to encourage their tendency ond-tier role for President. he Chamber of Com- preference for projects that CEO said. “We look forward to racialize that desperation. Desperation? (A “Fail merce Hawaii is seek- require collaborative effort to continuing this work in Neither economics nor iden- big and not go home” strat- ing grant applications and for which funds are not 2020 and encourage all eli- tity politics can be said to be egy?) T for funding of health-relat- available from other sources. gible Oahu organizations to the more important factor…. Practical? (Well, she has ed initiatives on Oahu. The “For nearly 100 years, apply for funding.” Together, they were tinder for no shot of winning her seat, Chamber is trustee of the the Public Health Fund Organizations must ap- the bonfire that resulted. And maybe she has a chance for a Public Health Fund (PHF). has allowed the Chamber ply for funding by December Trump was the match.” balancing veep as a moder- Through the PHF, the to make a direct impact 15. Interested applicants can But hey, we’ve seen it be- ate to Bernie or Liz?) Chamber provides grants to on some of Hawaii’s most download an application at fore. Audition? (She went on non-profit organizations that pressing healthcare chal- http://www.cochawaii.org/ In the ‘20s, the same ele- Fox before the announce- are implementing meaning- lenges,” Sherry Menor-Mc- public-health-fund/ or email ments of dissatisfaction exist- ment to denounce the im- ful public health education Namara, Chamber of Com- [email protected]. ed, to the point where whites peachment. Is she trying for and research projects, with a merce Hawaii President & lynched Asian Americans of a job as the next Hannity?) Filipino descent in California. She’s playing both sides That’s why the term against the middle. Let’s go “lynching” coming out of with the first word. Desper- Trump’s mouth this week was ation. When you’re less than so offensive. It was so insen- 1 percent chance of winning sitive and ignorant, and spo- the presidency is better than ken by a man who has done failure in a House race, one more to bring the hate of the looks better on the resume past forward to the present. than the other. Lynching? Asian Ameri- cans of Filipino descent can EMIL​ GUILLERMO ​ is a veteran journalist and commentator. He was say #MeToo. a member of the Honolulu Adver- Something worth re- tiser editorial board. Listen to him calling in October, Filipino on Apple Podcasts. Twitter @emi- American History month. lamok. 18 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLENOVEMBER 2, 2019 Q & A CFO Secretary Francisco Acosta Visits Hawaii for UGNAYAN sa US, To Discuss Ways to Strengthen the cally fit to be a soldier. So I have Filipino Connection no choice but to be a lawyer and By Jim Bea Sampaga follow the footsteps of my father who is was a former judge. I’ve ecretary Francisco “Nick” Acosta was a former been a lawyer ever since. Philippine Court of Appeals Associate Justice. He served the second-highest judicial court in HFC: As a former Court of the Philippines for more than a decade. In 2018, Appeals Associate Justice, President Rodrigo Duterte appointed Sec. Acos- how can you relate your pre- S ta as the new chairperson of the Commission on vious position in your current Filipino Overseas (CFO). position now as the chairper- Last month, Sec. Acosta visited Honolulu for a week as son and secretary of CFO? part of the CFO’s UGNAYAN Series where he discusses ways Acosta: The only thing that to strengthen Filipino connection and participation with local I brought into this position is Filipino leaders and community. Hawaii Filipino Chronicle my discipline of study, know- sat down with Sec. Acosta at the Philippine Consulate in Ho- ing what I’m doing and for the nolulu for a one-on-one exclusive interview discussing his en- first time in my life, initially I deavors in the first year of his term as chairperson of the CFO. thought I didn’t know what I What are your accomplish- ipino Center and I’m looking was getting into, I didn’t know ments so far as the chairper- forward to a continuous dia- HFC: Can you tell us a little Court of Appeals, for more than why the president appointed son of the commission? logue with him. I know that our bit about yourself? Why did 10 years. I retired at the age of me in this position because I Acosta: When I assumed government will support the you pursue law? 70. One year later, President never applied for it. But after office, I have to study what idea of having a Filipino Center Acosta: I graduated from Duterte appointed me to this completing a one year cycle in the commission is all about, where it will be a one-stop-shop Saint Louis High School in present position as the chair- this position, I am starting to its functions and mandates so for Filipinos abroad. It will be a Solano, Nueva Vizcaya. I took person of the Commission on realize why I am here and find that I precisely know if I’ll fit cultural center and a museum up both my pre-law and law Filipinos Overseas. the satisfaction and gratifica- on the job. Fortunately, I have where our fellow Filipinos are degrees at San Beda College in I initially wanted to be a tion of somehow identifying some assistance from able and most welcome. Manila. I took the bar examina- priest. I applied twice for the with our modern-day heroes honest employees within the tions in 1971 where I passed it. seminary but I was rejected and contributing something for organization to guide me as HFC: There are quite a lot of I initially went into law practice because of their suspicion that their interest and welfare. well as from some well-mean- Filipino government agencies specializing in litigation, partly I may not be able to finish my ing friends. I also availed the that handle and serve Filipi- in corporate law. I also teach priesthood. Then, I wanted to HFC: Since your appoint- services of the Development nos abroad and it causes quite political law and legal ethics. be a soldier but a family doctor ment in August 2018, what Academy of the Philippines. a confusion. Just to help clar- I am a two-time bar examiner examined me and came up with are the programs that you I was advised to hit the ify it to our readers, what ex- and I was with the judiciary, the the finding that I’m not -physi have established in CFO? ground running because I have actly is the role and function a lot of grounds to cover. I had of CFO? to strengthen the organization Acosta: We, in CFO, are and see how we can expand mandated to devise programs present projects and enter a for the welfare and benefits few projects that we can em- of permanent migrants. Of bark on. course, we have the umbrel- It would be modesty on la department that oversees my part to say that I’ve accom- everybody which is the De- plished something and it will partment of Foreign Affairs. I be a false modesty also on my would say that our president part to say that I’ve not done has adopted the one-colonel anything. I believe there are approach in solving any of the things that I have done so far. I problems. All agencies having have worked for a bigger bud- to do with the interest and wel- get so we can fund the under- fare of the migrants, will have served activities that we have. to work together to accomplish Another initiative that I’d the objective of protecting and like to undertake is that there promoting the interests of our should be a Filipino Center kababayans abroad. where there is a large concen- tration of Filipinos abroad. In HFC: What are the main the strategic plan that was made challenges that Overseas Fil- for our commission, this project ipinos are facing right now? was highly recommended. It How are you addressing those happens that Hawaii has a Fil- issues and challenges? ipino Community Center and Acosta: The biggest con- I’ve been talking to its founder, cern right now regarding our Mr. Roland Casamina, when I migrants is illegal recruitment arrive here a few days. We had and human trafficking which a long discussion about the Fil- (continue on page 19) NOVEMBER 2, 2019  HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE  19 COMMUNITY CALENDAR FILIPINO BUSINESS WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION 479-6259; Pris Galanto 295-0774; Carina Ocampo. 382- 330-8981, Chona Sonido at 284-4185 or at filipi- (FBWA) & FBWA FOUNDATION 36TH ANNUAL 3374; Pepito “PG” Guevarra 386-6379; Ronnie Agustin [email protected], Dr. Belinda Aquino at lin- KIMONA BALL | November 9, 2019; 6:30 PM | Hibis- 306-9427; Ella Somera Isidro [email protected] or Carlota Ader at 797-4381 cus Ballroom, Ala Moana Hotel l Contact: Fe Velasco at 222-7436, Margie Berueda at 371-9803 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE’S 25TH ANNI- 5TH ANNUAL SAKADA DAY CELEBRATION | De- VERSARY CELEBRATION, EXCELLENCE AWARDS, cember 21, 2019; 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM | Pahoa UNIVERSITY OF THE EAST FUN DANCE | November GALA DINNER AND JOURNALISM SCHOLARSHIP Community Center l Email [email protected] for 16, 2019; 6:00 - 11:00 PM | Pagoda Hotel Ground Floor l LAUNCHING EVENT | November 23, 2019; 6:00 PM details. The event is open to the public and free Dinner ticket: $40.00. Contact: Baybee 753-5616; Joe Lim | Hibiscus Ballroom, Ala Moana Hotel l Contact: Shali at

(Q & A: CFO SECRETARY FRANCISCO ACOSTA....from page 18) all departments of the government are HFC: You mentioned earlier that our Overseas Contract Workers. working together to prevent. The prob- you’ve met with Filipino commu- Currently, our agencies tend to lem of human trafficking is a universal nity leaders here in Hawaii. Will confuse people with which agency problem. It has become a very lucrative you also be speaking with young to go for to have a certain appoint- business. How is it addressed? Through Filipino leaders in Hawaii? ment and what not. The proposed the collective efforts of our government Acosta: We’ll be going to the Department of OFW will eliminate agencies which have organized the ad- University of Hawaii where I hope such confusion. This is the first vi- CLASSIFIED ADS vocacy committee of which the CFO is I’ll be able to meet young Filipinos sion of the president because they CAREGIVER NEEDED FOR IMMEDIATE JOB the chair. and hear their concerns. In that way, are the more vulnerable sector of I am offering 25$ per Hour for 4-5 hours daily our migrant community. We have a 24/7 action hotline, we can better hone the YouLeaD for a Dementia Father. which is 1343, where we receive re- program. I hope with the guidance Permanent migrants have Applicants should email their Resume and ports of illegal trafficking and recruit- of Filipinos abroad, especially the voiced their concerns and asked Reference ([email protected]) ment or suspicion of these activities youth, they can contribute when it why only OFWs are under the pro- posed department. In the proposed PART TIME CASHIER, FULL TIME CASHIER, which we immediately transmit to our comes to our youth programs. FULL TIME COOK law enforcement agencies. department, I don’t know where WAIMANALO L&L – Now Hiring ASAP Another concern is interracial HFC: The Filipino youth in the the permanent migrants are going Medical Provided for Full Time Employees marriages especially cultural and lan- Philippines is working hard to to be. But wherever they are, the Please Contact Fanny at 808-386-6898 guage barriers affecting them. It’s very earn a degree and a job that won’t Commission on Filipinos Over- HELP WANTED FOR CLEANING COMPANY gratifying to discover that although require them to look abroad for seas will always be with them. Legendary Cleaners pay depends on years of many of our kababayans suffered un- jobs and become an Overseas Fil- experience. Must be reliable, prompt and not explainable hardships, they were able ipino Worker (OFW). In theory, HFC: The nomination for the afraid of hard work. Experience a plus. Willing to train. Contact John Kim 808 392-5597 to survive. They are now helping their we might have fewer OFWs in 2020 Presidential Awards for fellow countrymen who are new to the future and we all know that Overseas Filipinos just recently BECOME A FRANCHISEE fast pace cleaning this because migration still continues. OFWs are a big part of the Phil- opened. What are you most look- company legendary cleaners with over That’s why I give my admiration to ippine economy because of the ing forward to? 16 years in business. Franchise fee 15706.80. 10 year contract. Contact John Kim 808 392-5597 the Filipino communities abroad and I amount of money they bring in to Acosta: The Presidential always repeat that the spirit of bayani- the country through remittances. Awards is the way for the president han still prevails. In your opinion, how will the de- to express his appreciation and grat- clining number of OFWs in the itude to our overseas Filipinos for HFC: Your visit here in Hawaii is future affect our economy? the assistance that they give to their part of the UGNAYAN sa US, a Fil- Acosta: It will be a very good countrymen. For the upcoming ipino Overseas outreach visits by the sign that our economy has already Awards, we would like to expand CFO. What exactly is the UGNAYAN reached the level where we can the number of awardees because I Series all about? keep all our citizens in our coun- know that there are a lot of deserv- Acosta: We do this in order to try. This is the reverse of migration. ing organizations and Filipinos. I’m support and empower our Filipino I’m sure that we will be able to do encouraging the Filipino commu- organizations abroad so that we can it and it will not be very long. I am nity to start nominating whoever engage with the next generation of very confident about that. I would they think is deserving. Here in Ha- Filipinos. Many of them may have like to see it in my lifetime. waii, I can see firsthand that there already lost their Filipino citizenship are many who are deserving. That’s because they gained the citizenship of HFC: Regarding OFWs issues why I’m encouraging the Filipino the country of their residence but they such as abuse cases and mass community in Hawaii to start with are still Filipinos. I would like to en- layoffs, what is the CFO’s role in their nominations. courage you that the pride of Filipinos these kinds of situations? should be nourished and strengthen, Acosta: We have what we call HFC: What message do you want go there and engage in your country the assistance to nationals which is to convey to prospective Filipinos and I know that once you’ll have suf- administered by the Department of planning to go overseas? ficient and ample knowledge, you will Foreign Affairs. Those situations do Acosta: Well, it’s the message be proud that you are Filipino. happen to permanent migrants but that the president has always re- Currently, we have a program they are very rare. peatedly imparted to us is for us that will interest the Filipino Youth to rise as a nation and achieve our abroad called the Youth Leaders in HFC: During President Dute- dreams and aspirations. We should Diaspora (YouLeaD). We organize a rte’s fourth State of the Nation act as one with one objective. group of Filipino youths from a par- Address, one of the top priorities ticular area and we bring them to the is establishing the Department of WRITER’S NOTE: The interview transcription was condensed and edit- Philippines for immersion, even for a Overseas Filipino Workers. What ed for clarity. If you wish to know more short period of time. The purpose is is your opinion about it? about the one-on-one exclusive inter- to entice our youth and interest them Acosta: Its purpose is to pro- view, please visit CFO’s Facebook page in continuing their engagement with vide more access and maximize where they live-streamed the whole in- their country. the services that can be granted to terview. NOVEMBER 2, 2019