HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS PHILIPPINE NEWS Dr. Mabanglo Among 5 Basilio Named11 Overseas Filipinos New Envoy To Honored by PNoy China DECEMBER 15, 2012
H a w a i i ’ s O n l y w e e k l y F i l i p i n O - a m e r i c a n n e w s p a p e r Parol Making Contest aMong Many HigHligHts at Pasko! sa FilCoM By HFC Staff
'Pablo' death toll climbs to 647 from www.philstar.com duction and Manage- he death toll from Ty- ment Council said phoon Pablo has Monday. T risen to 647, the Na- "As of December tional Disaster Risk Re- (continued on page 4)
he sights and sounds of a festive Filipino Christmas season will fill the halls of the Filipino Community Center (FilCom) in T Waipahu when the annual Pasko! sa FilCom is held on Sunday, December 16, 2012 from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The free event will People’s Choice, will win register before December Gabbard feature Filipino food and prizes worth $100 each. 16th by calling 680-0451 or Xxxx holiday treats; handi- Entries will be judged on sending an email to: upaa- Honors Pacquiao crafts and ornaments concept, craftsmanship, [email protected]. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard with Congressman Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach at the Wild Card Gym for sale; and traditional Walang Sayang (no waste) Children (and adults, music and dance. spirit and overall impact. too) can also make their by HFC Staff New this year is a This “Walang Sayang” own parol out of bamboo ongresswoman- Hawaii State Capitol, contest to make the holiday challenge, the first and paper, listen to folk Elect Tulsi Gabbard along with an honorary best parol (Christmas of its kind at Pasko!, is or- tales and participate in C presented Filipino certificate. star lanterns) from recy- ganized by the University of games and crafts. The Fil- world boxing champion G a b b a r d w a s cled materials. Winners the Philippines Alumni As- Com’s band, the Banda and Philippines Con- elected to represent in three categories— sociation of Hawaii. The Kawayan, will play instru- gressman Manny “Pac- Hawaii’s 2nd Congres- best parol made from a parol contest is open to the ments made from bamboo, man” Pacquiao with a flag sional District and is kit, best freestyle and public. Participants must (continued on page 4) that was flown over the (continued on page 5)
HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE LEGAL NOTES MAINLAND NEWS 94-356 WAIPAHU DEPOT RD., 2ND FLR. Republican Bill 13 Released 15 WAIPAHU, HI 96797 to Give Temporary "Classified” Visa to Families of Document May Help LPR in WWII Filvet's Cause 2 News Edition DecemBer 15, 2012 editorialS Hindrance to Development he campaign against corruption is a prior- mental degradation and human rights viola- ity not just in the Philippines. In recent tions have also been traced to corruption. T years, the United Nations, the World Bank Last September, at a high-level meeting and other organizations have recognized cor- on promoting the rule of law, the UN General ruption as one of the biggest hindrances to de- Assembly stressed the importance of ad- velopment efforts and one of the major factors dressing corruption. The assembly noted the behind poverty. need for governments to fight corruption and The problem was considered serious for citizens to raise their voices against the enough for the UN to pass the Convention problem. Against Corruption on Oct. 31, 2003. The con- In a message on International Anti-Cor- vention recognized that corruption posed a ruption Day, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- threat to the stability and security of societies, moon called for greater effort to fight the undermined democracy and the rule of law, scourge as he declared, “Corruption is not in- and endangered sustainable development. evitable. It flows from greed and the triumph With the passage of the convention came the of the undemocratic few over the expecta- designation of Dec. 9 as International Anti-Cor- tions of the many.” ruption Day. The Aquino administration has achieved Today the convention has 164 state parties some progress in confronting the problem, including the Philippines, which continues to but more effort is needed, as indicated in the battle entrenched corrupt practices. The UN has noted that corruption ranking of the Philippines in the latest Corruption Perception Index hinders the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. Stud- drawn up by Transparency International. The anti-corruption thrust ies have shown that corruption takes away billions in funds that could has buoyed business confidence in the country. The thrust must be otherwise be used for development projects and basic services in- sustained and the reforms must be made irreversible. cluding public health care, education and decent shelter. Environ- (www.philstar.com)
Decent Shelters rhea from lack of safe water, and respiratory illnesses are among ith memories of other deadly typhoons still fresh in their the most common afflictions. In flooded communities, the biggest minds, residents of many parts of Mindanao did what they risks are dengue and leptospirosis. Natural disasters can continue W could to get out of harm’s way as super typhoon “Pablo” claiming lives long after they have left the country. made landfall yesterday. Some local authorities still had to resort Some local government units have improved their prepared- to forced evacuation, but most residents readily moved to safer ness for evacuating large numbers of people. In most parts of the ground to avoid mudslides and torrential flooding. country, however, evacuation facilities during disasters are still in- With houses destroyed, authorities must now move to prevent adequate. This is true even in coastal communities along the coun- the spread of diseases at crowded evacuation centers and flooded try’s eastern seaboard that are usually the worst hit by typhoons, communities. Pablo is expected to continue roaring across the being in the direct path of weather disturbances from the Pacific. country at least until tomorrow. It will take time before those dis- Addressing this problem should not be impossible for local gov- placed by the typhoon can return to their communities, especially ernments and disaster mitigation authorities. With experts pre- in areas hit by massive flooding. dicting more extreme weather disturbances in the coming years, Health officials warned that in cramped evacuation centers, every nation must improve its preparedness for the worst. Pre- which housed over 50,000 people as of yesterday afternoon, dis- paredness includes the provision of decent temporary shelters for eases could spread quickly especially among children. Flu, diar- those displaced by natural calamities. (www.philstar.com)
NEWS EDITION www.thefilipinochronicle.com www.efilipinochronicle.com Contributing Writers Advertising/Marketing Director Belinda Aquino, Ph.D., Clement Bautista, Teresita Chona A. Montesines-Sonido Charlie Y. SONIDO, M.D. Columnists Bernales, Ed.D., Serafin Colmenares, Jr., Ph.D., Gov. Neil Abercrombie Carlota Ader Publisher and Executive Editor Linda Dela Cruz, Fiedes Doctor, Danny de Gracia II, Account Executives Mayor Peter Carlisle Carlo Cadiz, M.D. M.A., Carolyn Weygan-Hildebrand, Amelia Jacang, Carlota Ader Sen. Will Espero Chona A. M.D., Caroline Julian, Maita Milallos, Paul Melvin J. P. Orias MONTESINES-SONIDO Grace F. Fong, Ed.D. Palalay, M.D., Glenn Wakai Ruth Elynia Mabanglo, Ph.D. Creative Designer Big Island Distributor Publisher and Managing Editor J. P. Orias Junggoi Peralta Grace Larson Pacita Saludes Ditas Udani Dennis GALOLO Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq. Philippine Correspondent Edwin QUINABO Charlie Sonido, M.D. Greg Garcia Maui Distributor Emmanuel S. Tipon,Esq. Associate Editors Photography Cecile Piros Felino S. Tubera Tim Llena Randall SHIROMA Amado Yoro Administrative Assistant Molokai Distributor Sylvia Yuen, Ph.D. Design Consultant Shalimar Pagulayan Maria Watanabe
The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle is published weekly by the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. It is mailed directly to subscribers and distributed at various outlets around Oahu and the neighbor islands. Editorial and advertising deadlines are three weeks prior to publication date. Subscriptions are available at $75 per year for Oahu and the neighbor islands, continental U.S. $85, foreign country $95. Copyright 2007-2012. The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. is located at 94-356 Waipahu Depot, Waipahu, HI 96797. Telephone: (808) 678-8930. Facsimile: (808) 678-1829. E-mail: [email protected]. Opinions expressed by the columnists and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle management. Reproduction of the contents in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission from the management. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. 3 DecemBer 15, 2012 oPiNioN News Edition
Lapid, Joseph Estrada, opposite of the British voter. Most Emotional People Jinggoy Estrada, Bong Re- The British voter would first the task of preventing its re- villa, Tito Sotto and other have to be convinced about as i wreck THis cHair by william m. espOsO peat by exercising properly showbiz celebrities who the merits of a proposition. ccording to a recently • Ecuador: 54 our right to effect good gov- capitalized on their popular- Once convinced, the Brit released Gallup Poll, • Dominican Republic: 54 ernance. ity to win public office? If would then allow emotion to A Filipinos are the • Peru: 54 In the work place, for ex- these personalities cannot come in — to propel action MOST EMOTIONAL while • Nicaragua: 54 ample, Filipinos who fail to offer competence, then how for the desired reform. Singaporeans are the • United States: 54 make the grade tend to come Filipinos voted for Filipinos had all of 11 MOST EMOTIONLESS. blame their failure to other them? The conclusion is years to be convinced that Per the Gallup Poll, the It’s easy to believe the factors other than the fact that Filipinos voted with their martial law under Ferdi- 10 most emotionless coun- Gallup Poll results. Singa- that they didn’t exert enough hearts, not with their minds. nand Marcos was leading tries are: poreans are indeed the effort to make the grade. Many folks would say: our country on the road to • Singapore: 36 (percent) most emotionless people They’d say that their super- “What did we do to deserve perdition. It took the assas- • Georgia: 37 one could meet in Asia. visor is biased and that they these showbiz public offi- sination of Ninoy Aquino on • Lithuania: 37 Maybe that’s also the rea- were not graded properly. cials?” Several of them are August 21, 1983 to shock • Russia: 38 son why they have this This attitude produces ani- unfaithful husbands, a good us and make us realize that • Madagascar: 38 problem of a declining pop- mosities in the work place basis for not voting for the we’ll forever be under the • Ukraine: 38 ulation. In any case, nobody and prevents the employee adulterer. How can Filipinos Marcos yoke unless we act • Belarus: 38 can fault Singaporeans for from progressing. If you had associate the images that and remove him. The im- • Kazakhstan: 38 being most emotionless. more than enough of them these showbiz stars project pact of the assassination of • Nepal: 38 They have progress to show in your organization, they with their ability to perform Ninoy Aquino was of such • Kyrgyzstan: 38 for all the emotions that could produce a poisoned public service? That would magnitude that it led to the The 15 most emotional they’ve repressed. psyche that will be fatal for be the height of all the valid making of the current pres- countries are: It’s also easy to believe business. reasons that gave way to ident — his son Benigno S. • Philippines: 60 (percent) the Gallup Poll results when If one were to analyze emotions. Aquino III. • El Salvador: 57 it says that we, Filipinos, Filipino voting patterns, the My good friend, the late The problem of an emo- • Bahrain: 56 are the most emotional in emotional factor is very evi- film director Marilou Diaz- tional people is that emo- • Oman: 55 the world. Filipino reactions dent. If reason had guided Abaya shared with me a tions are short-term • Colombia: 55 and choices clearly demon- Filipinos when they voted, very valid observation when engines for action. Once • Chile: 54 strate just how emotional then a lot of public officials she was helping us during the emotion had died down, • Costa Rica: 54 we are. We’re so easily would not have been the 1986 Presidential Snap we then also lose our re- • Canada: 54 drawn to the emotional as- elected at all. How does one Election Campaign. Analyz- solve to effect improved • Guatemala: 54 pect of a human condition account for the votes cast ing the Filipino voter, Mar- protection and better gover- • Bolivia: 54 that we altogether forget for candidates like Lito ilou said that we’re the (continued on page 6) 4 News Edition HEADLINES DECEMBER 15, 2012 (cont. from page 1; PAROL... ) than 10 minutes. groups here in Hawaii. and its resident choral Choirs will be judged “It is one event which group, Himig at Indak, will based on performance, mu- brings all Filipinos together perform folk songs, dances sicianship an stage pres- and educates our children and carols of yesterday and ence. of the richness of their cul- today. Community groups tural heritage,” says Serafin will compete in a choral Why Pasko? Colmenares, Jr., executive contest and a cooking Another special presen- VP and prime mover of the demonstration will highlight tation at Pasko! is that of Congress of Visayan Or- Visayan delicacies. the Panunuluyan, a reen- ganizations (COVO). actment of Mary and “Filipinos always look tree toP Contest a spot. The contest is open Judging will be based Joseph’s search for an inn forward to Pasko,” says
Another contest that will to all Oahu Filipino Com- on the performancePhoto by of Tim LLENAtwo similar to the Mexican Beatrice Ramos-Razon, be a part of Pasko! is the munity Council (OFCC) unit Christmas carols—“Pasko posada, will be performed past president of the Hawaii Tree Top Making Contest. member organizations. na Sinta Ko” and any carol as it is in Tagalog-speaking chapter of the University of The task at hand will be to sung either in English or Fil- towns in the Philippines. the Philippines Alumni As- design the best tree top Choir ComPetition ipino. The annual Pasko! sa sociation. “It is a good way from materials that can be If you have singing tal- The choir must have a FilCom is a celebration of to be together, share the recycled and re-purposed. ents, you may want to enter conductor, can sing either Filipino Christmas in spirit of the season, and Cash prizes will be a third competition—the with accompaniment or Hawaii. As such, it not only celebrate our culture.” given for three categories— Pasko! sa FilCom Choir acapella, and can perform reminds Filipinos of this For more information, most original and recyclable Competition, which is open in any appropriate attire or wonderful tradition but also please call the FilCom Cen- ($100), most creative ($75) to all choirs or choral costume. Performances allows them to share their ter at 680-0451. and audience favorite groups consisting of 16 to must be limited to no longer culture with the other ethnic
($50). 25 members. (cont. from page 1; ‘PABLO’...) The contest is free and The choirs may be com- 10, 20120, 5:00 a.m., 647 open to anyone with artistic posed of children, youth were reported dead and talent. Entrants are encour- and/or adults, and may be 1,482 were injured while aged to sign up by emailing: formed through school, 780 are still missing and [email protected] church or community or- 109 rescued most of which om to assure themselves of ganizations. were from Region 12,"the NDRRMC said. Damage to properties and agriculture has reached P7.116 billion. Total number of affected families reached 487,364 or 5.41 million persons in has already surpassed 600, landmarks, making it dou- 1,928 barangays in 30 mostly from flash floods bly difficult to search places provinces. that wiped away precarious where houses once stood. Some 29, 390 families communities in the south- Hundreds of refugees, remain inside 172 evacua- ern region unaccustomed rescuers and aid workers tion centers.Eleven bridges to typhoons. took a break Sunday to and nine roads are impass- Ramos said the fisher- watch the Manny Pac- able, 21 municipalities and men were headed to the quiao-Juan Manuel Mar- cities are experiencing Spratly Islands in the South quez fight on a big TV power interruption and six China Sea and to the Pa- screen, only to be dis- area are experiencing inter- cific Ocean. Coast guard, mayed by their hero's sixth- ruption in water supply. navy and fishing vessels round knockout. The Associated Press are searching for them, and Elementary school however reported that 900 some may have sought teacher Constancio Olivar persons remain missing. shelter on the many small said people fell silent when The number of people islands in the area. Pacquiao, a congressman missing after a typhoon "Maybe they are still who comes from the south- devastated the Philippines alive," Ramos said Sunday. ern Philippines where the jumped to nearly 900 after Bopha was dissipating storm hit, fell heavily to the families and fishing compa- finally in the South China canvas and remained mo- nies reported losing contact Sea after briefly veering tionless for some time. with more than 300 fisher- back toward the country's "It was like a double men at sea, officials said. northwest on Saturday, blow for me — this disaster The fishermen from prompting worries of more and this defeat," said Oli- southern General Santos devastation. var, whose house was de- city and nearby Sarangani Rescuers were search- stroyed in the storm. "We province left a few days be- ing for bodies or signs of life were all crestfallen. Every- fore Typhoon Bopha hit the under tons of fallen trees one fell silent, stunned. It main southern island of and boulders in the worst- was like we saw a tsunami." Mindanao on Tuesday, Civil hit town of New Bataan, Nearly 400,000 people, Defense chief Benito where rocks, mud and mostly from Compostela Ramos said. The death toll other rubble destroyed (continued on page 5) 5 DecemBer 15, 2012 HeadliNeS News Edition
(cont. from page 1; GABBARD...) (cont. from page 1; ‘PABLO’...) friends, Pacquiao’s en- nity to make progress,” danao, causing losses esti- one of the first female com- dorsement of Gabbard ap- Gabbard says. “As con- Valley and nearby Davao mated at 12 billion pesos bat veterans to ever be peared in Hawaii print and gressional members in our Oriental province, have lost ($300 million), according to elected to Congress. She radio ads during the weeks two allied countries, we are their homes and are Stephen Antig, executive appeared at Pacquiao’s leading to the August 11th committed to working to- crowded inside evacuation director of the Pilipino Ba- training facility in California Primary Election. gether on issues that are of centers or staying with rel- nana Growers and Ex- as the boxing champ pre- “We have many tough concern to both of us— atives. porters Association. pared for his December 8th challenges that our respec- such as, eliminating human President Benigno The Philippines is the fight against opponent Juan tive countries are facing, trafficking, immigration re- Aquino III has declared a world's third-largest banana Manuel Márquez—a fight and our commitment to form and creating jobs to in- national calamity, which al- producer and exporter, sup- that the Filipino lost in working together is a sym- crease the economic lows for price controls on plying international brands Round 6. bol of the unity that is nec- prosperity and quality of life basic commodities in ty- such as Dole, Chiquita and Introduced to each essary in order for our for the people in our com- phoon-affected areas and Del Monte. other by longtime mutual country and global commu- munities.” the quick release of emer- Meanwhile, weather bu- gency funds. reau Philippine Atmos- HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS Officials said Sunday pheric, Geophysical and that 316 people were killed Astronomical Services Ad- Dr. Mabanglo Among Overseas in Compostela Valley, in- ministration said that as of cluding 165 in New Bataan, Monday, no tropical cyclone Filipinos Honored by PNoy and 301 in Davao Oriental. exists within the Philippine DR. RUTH ELYNIA MA- and Organizations Overseas More than 45 people were area of responsibility. BANGLO was among 29 is a biennial search for over- killed elsewhere. Nearly "The regions of Ca- overseas Filipinos and for- seas-based individuals and 900 are missing, including gayan Valley and Cordillera eign-based organizations organizations which have the fishermen and 440 from and the provinces of Ilocos honored by President Be- dedicated their work in the New Bataan alone. will have cloudy skies with nigno S. Aquino III at the service, advancement and Davao Oriental authori- light rains. Metro Manila 2012 Presidential Awards improvement of lives of Fil- ties imposed a curfew there and the rest of Luzon will be for Filipino Individuals and ipinos worldwide, or who and ordered police to guard partly cloudy with brief rain- Organizations Overseas. have excelled in their field or stores and shops to prevent showers while the rest of The event was held at profession. Since its incep- looting. the country will have brief Malacanang Palace on De- tion, the awards have been The typhoon destroyed rainshowers or thunder- cember 5, 2012. conferred to 338 Filipinos about 18 percent of the ba- storms," PAGASA said. A columnist for the and foreign-based organiza- nana plantations in Min- (www.philstar.com) Hawaii Filipino Chronicle, tions from 44 Mabanglo is well-known both in Hawaii countries. and the Philippines as a poet, playwright, This year’s awardees textbook writer, teacher, research scholar are living testaments to the and translator. She belongs to the Palanca enduring spirit of bayani- Hall of Fame and has won five first prize han, perseverance, hard Palanca Awards. work and exemplary serv- She also received literary awards ice towards the advance- from the Cultural Center of the Philip- ment and improvement of pines, the Commission on the Filipino the lives of Filipinos in the Language, the Writer’s Union of the Philippines and abroad. Philippines and from the City Govern- Awardees are thoroughly ment of Manila. Her works are recog- screened from a total of nized by Philippine literary critics, 137 nominations from 26 included in many anthologies and re- countries by three different viewed and citied in journals. committees with represen- Due largely to Mabanglo’s efforts, the tatives from the govern- University of Hawaii-Manoa’s Filipino ment, civil society, media, Program is currently the largest among academe, religious and 40-plus programs in the U.S. It is the only business sectors, and the Filipino program with a certificate, a president of the Philip- minor and a BA anywhere outside the pines. Philippines. President Aquino ex- In 2008, she initiated a conference horted the awardees to called Filipino as a Global Language to work together in helping re- promote Filipino internationally and to build the areas devastated provide a venue for the exchange of by Typhoon Pablo. ideas among teachers of Filipino who “I am seeing a greater often are by themselves in teaching the spirit of cooperation among language, researchers, linguists, pro- our fellow citizens and I am gram administrators, writers and agen- confident that those of you cies catering to the use of the language. who have always been giv- Institutionalized in 1991 through Ex- ing generously in the past ecutive Order No. 498 and signed by will take the time to lend a then-President Corazon C. Aquino, the helping hand where it is Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals needed,” says Aquino. 6 News Edition HaWaii-FiliPiNo NeWS DecemBer 15, 2012 FilCom Revamps Computer Skills Training Courses IF YOU NEED TO BRUSH years ago. However, the to Conrad Abuel, a retired grants who are seeking em- prehensive Mental Health UP ON YOUR kEY- training session went into case manager for the City’s ployment and better com- Center and brings years of BOARDING SkILLS or to hiatus when the hard-wired Oahu Work Links Program. puter skills to navigate experience in using spread- learn a new software, con- desktop computers started Abuel teaches “Computer today’s technological re- sheet software. sider taking computer en- slowing down. Basics,” a four session quirements, as well as re- The couple is also ac- richment courses at the Earlier this year, the Fil- course that helps begin- tired seniors who want to tively involved with the Bu- Filipino Community Center Com Center replaced the nings learn how to use a use email or surf the internet lacan Circle of Hawaii, (FilCom). outdated computers with laptop. The course is lim- or socialize via Facebook. where Conrad serves as a FilCom Center has of- laptops and converted in- ited to nine students per Abuel’s wife Linda also member of its board of di- fered computer training ternet access into WIFI thus course and held on teaches Microsoft Excel rectors. since the completion of its enabling the resumption of Wednesdays, from 10 am courses on Saturdays, from The FilCom’s computer Economic Development the computer classes any- to 12 noon. 2 pm to 4 pm. She is cur- courses are held year Administration (EDA)- where in the facility. Most of Abuel’s students rently chief accountant at round. Please call 680- funded Tech Room seven Much of the credit goes are newly-arrived immi- the Waianae Coast Com- 0451 for more details. Filipino Junior Chamber Honors Outstanding Young Filipinos JCI HAWAII FILIPINO board member State Commission on the tional institution. He has University via JUNIOR CHAMBER rec- of the Hawaii Status of Women. Recog- also organized over 300 a volleyball ognized 8 outstanding indi- Public Housing nized by Pacific Business religious retreats for the scholarship. viduals in Hawaii’s Filipino A u t h o r i t y , News as one of the State’s school and helped in- During his community via its “The Out- Jason is one of brightest young profession- crease enrollment. collegiate ca- standing Young Filipinos” the few young people in the als under 40, she was the reer, he led his team to four program. field of social services who youngest selected in this • Nicole Velasco, a mem- NCAA championships. The honorees were is responsible for the day-to elite group. ber of the Named as team captain in awarded a trophy, certifi- day operations of an emer- Kalihi-Palama 2004, he was also recog- cate of achievement and a gency shelter for the home- • Bryan Munoz, a popular N e i g h b o r - nized as an Academic Big- 1-year FJC membership at less. Jason has a degree in DJ at KNDI hood Board 10 All American. Rhonee FJC’s Night of Honor held political science and is now Radio. KNDI and Envision represented Hawaii at the at the Ala Moana Hotel on a master’s degree candi- radio owner Hawaii. A graduate of Mr. Manhunt International December 9, 2012. The date at UH-Manoa in public Leona Jona Princeton University, 2011 contest in Bangkok awards ceremony drama- administration. says Bryan is Nicole began her educa- and finished in the top 15 tized each honoree’s career able to bridge the gap be- tion in public policy as re- out of 60 represented na- in narrative form and pro- • Carmille Lim, Develop- tween generations of Fil- search analyst for the tions. In October, at the vided a stage for the hon- ment and Ad- ipinos of all ages. Bryan Hawaii House of Repre- height of the flooding in orees to challenge and v o c a c y also performs for the sentatives Finance Com- Cavite, he initiated a relief inspire Hawaii’s youth. Manager of breakdance ministry for mittee and the Auditor’s goods distribution pro- the YWCA. Calvary Chapel Pearl Har- Office. She ran unsuccess- gram. The honorees are: Carmille is bor and other churches. fully for State House Dis- • Jason Espero, Shelter also a board member of trict 30 by a slim margin of • Julius Soria, an instruc- Manager for the Next Step the League of Women Vot- • Brent Limos, admissions 120 votes. She also serves tor at UH- Shelter in Kakaako. Cur- ers of Hawaii and a com- director at as a coach for Farrington M a n o a ’ s rently the secretary and missioner at the Hawaii Damien Me- High School’s girls water Ilocano lan- m o r i a l polo team. g u a g e p r o - S c h o o l . g r a m . F o r Under Brent’s • Rhonee Joseph Roxas more than 15 years, Julius leadership and guidance, is an accomplished athlete. taught heritage learners in Damien has smoothly tran- He earned a degree in ki- basic education while he sitioned into a co-educa- nesiology from Penn State (continued on page 7) oPiNioN (cont. from page 3; MOST... ) otism — the collective re- of us of the reality of martial solve of Filipinos that it will law? Imagine how much nance. The assassination require that all of us must Ninoy Aquino could have of Ninoy Aquino tran- take great risks if our coun- contributed had he been scended the normal time try is to be freed from the alive to administer the gov- span of a national emotion shackles of Marcos martial ernment after martial law. because it was integrated law. Filipino hearts in 1983 Indeed, we’re an emo- with a noble challenge — first wept over the loss of a tional people and we’re not for citizens to fight for free- great son and then rechan- alone in that category. dom and democracy. neled that emotion to patri- There’s nothing wrong with The feeling of such a otism, the willingness to emotions as long as these great loss when Ninoy was undergo great inconven- result in intelligent resolves assassinated was sup- ience in order to attain an to remedy undesired situa- planted by patriotism. The important national objective. tions. Filipinos must learn to shock effect of the Ninoy as- Why did the Filipino na- live with and use their emo- sassination segued to the tion have to lose a great tions for their personal and widespread feeling of patri- son in order to awaken all national good. 7 DecemBer 15, 2012 iMMiGratioN GUide News Edition Aliens May Have “Second Bite of the Apple” by Claiming Ineffective Counsel proceedings can establish ficient conduct is plain on establish that (1) such alien alien acted diligently in pur- that he or she is a victim of the record, or (4) counsel has a right to effective as- suing the claim of ineffec- such ineffectiveness, the failed to file a necessary sistance of counsel under tiveness. alien may have a “second application or appeal. the Fifth Amendment Due OBSERVATION: by atty. emmanuel bite of the apple” by asking In addition, the alien Process Clause, since Adam had only one bite of samonte TipOn for the reopening of the re- must show that he or she some courts do not recog- the apple and he was moval proceedings. suffered prejudice as a re- nize such a right, (2) the re- doomed until eternity. If the mmigration law has In the book we wrote on sult of the counsel’s defi- viewing court has alien who was ordered re- been called a “labyrinth” “Ineffective Assistance of cient conduct – that is, but jurisdiction over the consti- moved can find an excellent I or a maze, which only a Counsel in Removal Pro- for the lawyer’s misconduct tutional claim or question of lawyer who can do all of the lawyer could navigate. ceedings” we discussed the or failure to act, the out- law, (3) the alien has ex- above, the alien might have Nehad v. Mukasey, 535 various standards that have come or result would have hausted administrative a “second bite of the apple” F.3d 962 (9th Cir. 2008). been used by the courts in been different or may have remedies by having raised and probably live in America Hence, most aliens in re- determining whether a been different, or that the the issue in the Board of until eternity. moval (deportation) pro- lawyer’s conduct was inef- relief sought would have Immigration Appeals, (4) ceedings rely heavily on fective. The basic rule is been granted, or that there the alien has complied with (atty. tiPon has a Master their lawyer’s advice. Un- that a claim of ineffective were plausible grounds for the Lozada requirements of Laws degree from Yale Law fortunately, in the vast ma- assistance of counsel must relief and the alien’s entitle- (present the alien’s agree- School and a Bachelor of jority of cases, the lawyer allege that the lawyer’s ment thereto. ment with the first counsel Laws degree from the Univer- that the alien has hired was conduct resulted in a denial ProCedural requirements stating what counsel was sity of the Philippines. Office: ineffective, as a result of of due process rendering The alien must meet supposed to do, notify the 800 Bethel St., Suite 402, Hon- which the alien was or- the proceedings fundamen- certain procedural hurdles first counsel and give coun- olulu, HI 96813. Tel. (808) dered deported. Simply be- tally unfair that the alien before being allowed to sel an opportunity to re- 225-2645. E-Mail: filam- cause the lawyer lost the was prevented from rea- proceed to establish a claim spond, file a statement on [email protected]. Websites: case does not mean that sonably presenting his or of ineffective assistance of whether a complaint was www.MilitaryandCrimi- the lawyer was ineffective, her case, and that there is counsel. In other words, filed against the first coun- nalLaw.com, and www.Immi- since the lawyer might have a reasonable probability there are certain require- sel with a disciplinary au- grationServicesUSA.com. done his or her best but the that the alien suffered prej- ments that the alien must thority and if not why not), Listen to the most witty, inter- law or the facts of the case udice because of counsel comply with before being (5) the alien has met the esting, and informative radio were such that there was deficiencies. allowed to cross the thresh- time limitations for raising program in Hawaii on KNDI no way of winning. Even Other standards articu- old and enter the halls of his claim or that there is an at 1270, AM dial every Thurs- Supreme Court justices dis- lated by the courts to es- justice to reopen the pro- equitable basis for tolling the day at 7:30 a.m., rebroadcast agree on what the law is. tablish that a lawyer was ceedings. The alien must time limitations, and (6) the at www.iluko.com.) A lawyer is ineffective if ineffective are: (1) the there would have been a dif- lawyer’s conduct was out- ferent result “but for” the side the wide range of com- lawyer’s misconduct or fail- petent or professional ure to do particular acts re- assistance, (2) competent sulting in prejudice to the counsel would have acted alien. If the alien in removal otherwise, (3) counsel’s de- HaWaii-FiliPiNo NeWS (cont. from page 3; FILIPINO... ) to the State Department of earned both his masters Taxation. As an attorney, and doctorate degrees. He he represented Hawaii in is a recipient of the 2009 high profile cases. Damien United Filipino Council of also served as president of Hawaii (UFCH) award for the Young Lawyers Divi- Education and currently sion for the Hawaii State serves as the secretary of Bar Association. the Oahu Filipino Commu- FJC’s Night of Honor nity Council (OFCC). also introduced the incom- ing executive board and • Damien Elefante, an ac- bestowed the highest hon- tive member ors by the U.S. Junior of the Hawaii Chamber to two of the or- State Jaycees ganization’s current and and the Fil- former members. This ipino Bar As- year’s recipients are Scott sociation. He is licensed to Arakaki, attorney at practice law for all Hawaii Badger Arakaki, LLC and State courts. Damien cur- Jay Raymundo, CEO of rently serves as a deputy Aloha Rehabilitation Serv- attorney general assigned ices. 8 News Edition eSSaY DecemBer 15, 2012 Drawing Inspiration from the Life of Martha this came as no surprise that young and Child Protective Then when their mom she had written her own eu- Services recommended passed on, life couldn't Holiday Season logy. Most people already that they be taken to a fos- have gotten worse. Life by edwin QUinaBO holiday spirit for me. It hap- knew a lot about Martha's ter home. She couldn't ended in many ways, more pened at a funeral for a dedication to her family, but imagine her family be bro- than death itself, Martha re- or most people Thanks- wonderful woman who I'd in her eulogy there were ken apart. Her brothers calls. There were no an- giving day officially be- see at parties occasionally. some surprises some of us were all she had left. swers this time to work at F gins the holiday season Her story epitomizes love, didn't know about, namely The three teens bravely solving. Everything was -- loved ones gather for a compassion and generos- the tremendous sacrifices took on immense responsi- over, she remembers feel- sumptuous turkey dinner ity. For her, those venerable she endured in her early bilities as their single-parent ing. Their dream for better and reminisce good old attributes didn't just come life. mom went to work while days as one family, lost. times while soft Christmas seasonally around Christ- In her teens, Martha's other children their age sim- But just when separation music and big laughs fill the mas time, but were a part of father had left the family, ply concentrated on home- seemed imminent for the air. For serious shoppers, who she was every day of leaving her, her mother and work and having fun. They three teens, Martha met a there's nothing better than her life. two younger brothers. had to move from their young man. The two of them saving a bundle on Black Her name is Martha, a Shortly after, her father neighborhood in the sub- fell in love and when they Friday to put them in the woman with a contagious died. At about the time she urbs to a public housing both turned 18 years old, holiday mood. smile and large presence. was about to turn 18, her project. Martha and her Martha asked him if he But this year something Being that she was pas- mother also died. They had brothers had to grow up re- would be willing to marry her peculiar out of all events sionate about her hobbies, no one left to care for them. ally fast, practically missing so they could legally adopt captured the essence of the one of them being writing, it Her brothers were still very their childhood entirely. her younger brothers. Martha prayed very hard for a miracle to keep her family together so that she could look after her younger broth- ers. That miracle came in that young man, Alonso, who ended up being her husband for over 50 years before his passing. With Martha's guidance, her younger brothers eventually turned out to become very productive, stable adults, having good jobs and fami- lies of their own. As for Martha, she was blessed with four children. Realizing the impor- tance of extending help to others during times of crisis from her own personal ex- perience, throughout her life Martha helped strug- gling families make ends meet. She opened her home rent free occasionally to friends and their families who were out of a job tem- porarily. Eventually, people would hear about Martha's generosity that her home became known as the gath- ering place. Throughout her life, she has helped over 30 people, providing them a secure, safe place to stay while they worked hard to get their lives back in order. Martha truly led an in- spirational life. It took her funeral, her eulogy, to re- mind me of the true mean- ing of the holiday season. Sometimes funerals can have that effect, helping people to refocus on what's (continued on page 10) 9 DecemBer 15, 2012 PHiliPPiNe NeWS News Edition
(continued on page
FeasT wiTH me by stephanie ZUBiri how we see food and our pears than atis nowadays ast Nov. 13, Nielsen re- perception of health. and go try and find alugbati vealed the top 50 Con- 1 2 The Department of in a regular grocery or ask L sumer Packaged Goods Health cites diseases of the your 10-year-old nephew if that Filipinos buy the most. heart and diseases of the he likes macopa. They prob- What is most alarming to me vascular system as the top ably won’t even know what it is that the top three are car- two causes of mortality in the is. Many farmers are making bonated soft drinks, wines Philippines the switch to more popular and spirits, and biscuits. (http://www.doh.gov.ph/node/ western crops, which are Even more alarming is that 198). In the most recent Na- more costly to grow and five out of the six food and (1) Alugbati Frittata tional Nutrition and Health store. Indigenous vegetables (2) Red Rice Risotto Survey (NNHeS II) con- like saluyot (jute leaves) or beverage products that find (3) Avocado Salad 3 themselves on the top eight ducted in 2008, one in four kulitis (amaranthe) prolifer- list are just as packed with misConCePtion oF Food plement describes someone Filipino adults has hyperten- ate like weeds and are ex- sugar and empty calories — What does this say about gorging himself on fatty, rich sion (25.7 percent). We often tremely nutritious. Legumes instant noodles and snack our eating habits as a na- foods, then saying it’s all forget or perhaps choose to like tapilan are rich in protein foods. Powdered milk, at tion? We want to indulge right because you can easily forget the direct correlation and fiber, and take almost no number six, can also be ar- then take a quick fix to be take a pill to get the proper between our food intake and effort to grow. Making the gued to have less benefits just as slim and abdominally nutrition you need. Another our general health. It’s sim- switch to brown rice, for ex- than that of a healthy ripped as the bikini-clad and ad shows the difficulty of eat- ple. Fatty, rich, sugary and ample, will increase your di- mother’s breast milk. Ironi- shirtless models on the bill- ing healthy and the lack of overly salty foods will take its etary fiber intake, cleansing cally, sitting at number four boards, forgetting the ad- accessibility of healthy food, toll. The general public, your colon of fatty residue right under biscuits are di- verse effects of extremes on again the pill coming to the based on my interactions with and providing a good source etetics. the body. Recently a series rescue. While multivitamins some impoverished urban of vitamin B. Filipinos don’t of ads on TV and radio pro- are certainly helpful, what and rural communities, are consume enough fiber. We the dangerous, ironiC moting a multivitamin sup- they don’t say is that a lack not aware of this correlation. mostly eat heavy dishes, ac- of nutrients is not the only Investing in good eating helps companied by refined problem you’ll have by un- prevent chronic diseases in starches full of empty calo- healthy eating. the long run. Once again, it’s ries and sugars. Another question comes the Band-Aid solution rather to mind: Why is it more and than prevention. ‘But healthy Food is more difficult to find real, ac- Boring Food’ cessible whole food? In a ‘i Can’t aFFord to eat Most people dismiss country surrounded by vast healthy’ vegetables as being boring. waters and abounding with A common argument is But it’s all a matter of creativ- lush, fertile land, why are fish that it is expensive to eat ity and education — starting and vegetables so pricey? healthy. Yes, it is. But it kids young by not getting Also, have our taste buds shouldn’t be. One of the them used to artificial flavors. evolved as a nation to find major causes is the difficulty Cooking nowadays is all a fresh, clean food repulsive? of direct access from farm to matter of powders and mixes On a giant billboard for veg- table. Ka Becca Miranda, an and our traditional culinary etable-enriched spaghetti, onion farmer and activist art is also dying from it. Taste the tagline says proudly, from Nueva Ecija, sells her tests in culinary schools “With no veggie taste!” What onions to a local middleman have shown that people now is so wrong about the taste for P25/kilo. In most super- prefer the powdered sini- of vegetables? I find myself markets you end up paying gang mix to the real deal. having to finely chop herbs the retail price of P75 — Why? Because we got used and vegetables so that sometimes up to P95 — per to it. Re-educating the palate guests eating my food don’t kilo. We need serious effort is extremely important. pick them out. This, for me, from the government to open Thinking out of the “pakbet- reflects a serious issue with access to these producers. adobo-gata-sabaw” box Talking to one of these farm- when cooking our local veg- ers from Batangas, she said gies is also helpful. Looking that their town was so abun- to other cuisines for inspira- dant in carabao milk and tion. During a cooking demo, kesong puti that they were we came up with a “monggo practically giving it away or it falafel” that we turned into a would spoil. Another cause is “burger” that both parents our incessant demand for and children enjoyed. Western-type vegetables. Whole-grain rice and Growing up in the Eighties, I legumes have nourished civ- ate macopa picked from a ilizations in Africa and the In- neighbor’s tree and one of dian subcontinent for years. my favorite dishes was alug- An alugbati frittata can con- bati and giniling. We often vert many non-leafy veggie had sayote in the house, eaters in just minutes. All are atis, mangosteen, malung- tasty. All are cost-effective. gay and the like. I see more (continued on page 14) 13 DecemBer 15, 2012 leGal NoteS News Edition Republican Bill to Give Temporary Like the Republican-version, Visa to Families of LPRs the proposed bill provides for the Republican Party’s way not increase the total number gust 22, 2010. additional green cards for of showing that they are seri- of visas issued each year. The backlog has approxi- STEM graduates; however, it ous about immigration re- This time, the Republi- mately 322,000 spouses and retains the Diversity Visa form. cans made the bill more ap- children of LPRs waiting for Lottery program. Their pro- Last September 20, the pealing by adding a provision their immigrant visas. The bill posal also includes utilizing by reuben s. STEM bill was already taken which will allow the spouses would allow LPRs to be re- unused visa numbers for seGUriTan up in the House of Repre- and minor children of LPRs to united with their families in the STEM graduates to make up sentatives. It failed to pass enter the U.S. while they wait U.S. one year after they file I- for backlogs in the employ- ilipinos and Latinos even though it received the for their own green cards. 130 petitions on their behalf. ment-based categories. would benefit from a Re- majority votes of the mem- They will enter the U.S. under Whether the Senate will Although the STEM bill is F publican-sponsored im- bers because the procedure a temporary visa. Although support the bills remains to not a major fix to a broken migration bill that would give used required a two-thirds they will not be able to work be seen. The provision on immigration system, it will temporary visas to spouses vote. until they obtain their green temporary visas for immedi- expand visas for STEM and children of lawful perma- Democrats opposed the cards, this will allow them to ate families of LPRs may graduates and allow families nent residents (LPR). bill because it would elimi- be reunited with their families draw some support; how- to reunite. More importantly, Known as the STEM nate the 55,000 green cards while they wait. ever, it is clear that Democ- passing this GOP immigra- Jobs Act, the proposed legis- allotted each year under the At present, spouses and rats remain opposed to the tion bill is a tell-tale sign that lation would provide 55,000 Diversity Visa Lottery pro- minor children of LPRs will elimination of the diversity immigration reform is already additional green cards a year gram. These green cards are have to wait over two years visa program and seek to in- in the works. to foreign nationals receiving given by lottery to qualified before they can be issued crease the number of visas. advanced degrees in sci- immigrants from countries their green cards. Those who The Democrats have in- reuBen s. seguritan has been practicing law for over 30 years. For ence, technology, engineer- with low rates of immigration are receiving their green troduced a version of their further information, you may call him at ing and mathematics to the United States. The cards today are those who own STEM bill which has not (212) 695 5281 or log on to his website (STEM) The bill is seen as proposed bill, in effect, does were petitioned prior to Au- been taken up in the House. at www.seguritan.com MaiNlaNd NeWS Rob Bonta Breaks the Glass Ceiling as First Fil-Am in the
California Legislature compared to past years, with tiative of Governor Jerry by malou liwanaG-BleDsOe/ new revenues that will come Brown, raises taxes on the Wednesday, December 5, 2012 in through the voter-ap- wealthy and hikes the state proved Proposition 30. The sales tax by a quarter cent. SACRAMENTO— HIS- proposition, which is the ini- (www.asianjournal.com) TORY WAS DEFINITELY MADE WHEN ROB ADVERTISE NOW AND SEE HOW BONTA took his oath of of- THE FACE OF BUSINESS IS CHANGING! fice and became the first Fil- No matter how small your ad, ipino-American legislator in it gets our readers attention! the State of California, during CALL 678-8930 OR GO TO OUR WEBSITE @ the 2013-2014 Organiza- www.efilipinochronicle.com www.thefilipinochronicle.com tional Session of the Assem- bly last Monday, Dec. 3. FIRST FIL-AM IN CA ASSEMBLY. Rob Bonta (second to the left;Inset) is shown Bonta, was the former with fellow Assembly Members-elect as they took their oath of office last Monday, Vice Mayor of the City of Dec. 3 in Sacramento. Bonta broke the glass ceiling as the first Fil-Am to serve in the California Legislature. | AJPress photo by Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe Alameda before he was elected last Nov. 6 as a Wearing the traditional studying at Oxford University member of the State Assem- barong tagalog, Bonta stood in England. bly for District 18, winning out in the sea of black suits. A husband and father of against another Democrat, He was joined by his wife, three, Bonta is a strong advo- Abel Guillen. Mialisa. cate for public schools The session, held in the Bonta has received throughout his career in pub- Assembly Chamber in the tremendous support from the lic service and has fought for State Capitol Building in Filipino community not only public safety. He also has Sacramento, convened at while he was running for the pushed for economic devel- 12:00 noon by a call to order State Assembly, but also opment and exercising fiscal and roll call and followed while he was in office as Vice responsibility. with a prayer by Rev. Scott Mayor and Alameda County The session continued on Santarosa, SJ; pastor of the Transportation Commis- to the re-election of Jose Dolores Mission Church in sioner. As the son of labor or- Perez as the Speaker of the Los Angeles. ganizers, serving the people Assembly and his speech, Bonta, along with other runs in his blood. the appointment of the Assembly Members-elect He graduated with hon- Speaker Pro Tempore and took their oath of office, ad- ors from Yale College with a other organizational busi- ministered by Los Angeles degree in History. He ob- ness. Superior Court Judge Mary tained his Juris Doctorate There is more optimism in Lou Villar de Longoria. from Yale Law School after the State Legislature in 2013 14 News Edition MaiNlaNd NeWS DecemBer 15, 2012 NAFCON Launches Relief Efforts for Typhoon Victims THE NATIONAL ALLIANCE updates are available online phoons Ondoy, Sendong Visayas. Let’s step up our ef- “Tulong Sa Bayan (TSB)” FOR FILIPINO CONCERNS at: www.ndrrmc.gov.ph. and now Pablo. forts to raise donations for ty- 519 S. Spring St., Los Ange- (NAFCON) is appealing to “Days have passed and NAFCON vice president phoon victims.” les, CA 90013. TSB has Filipinos across the U.S. to the people are still seeking Joy de Guzman was in Min- In lieu of material goods, been NAFCON’s established assist victims of Typhoon relief from the government,” danao last August and saw NAFCON is collecting mone- partner in sending relief do- Pablo which ravaged the says NAFCON organizer how much-needed support tary donations that will arrive nations to the Philippines. southern region of Mindanao Anne Beryl Corotan. “Each from private sector organiza- quickly and directly to com- On the check’s memo, and left over 500 dead. day more people have no tions can effectively assist ty- munities adversely affected please write: NAFCON According to the Philip- food and water, are home- phoon victims. by the typhoon. Donations Bayanihan Relief and your pine Consulate General in less and becoming sick. It’s “It’s only because of peo- will be given through the Fr. city of residence along with a Honolulu, a total of 418 are an inexcusable neglect in a ple’s organizations that vic- Fausto “Pops” Tentorio return address. Donations of dead, 445 injured and 383 state of calamity.” tims of Sendong were able to Foundation, NAFCON’s part- $250 or more will be tax de- missing. The typhoon has af- NAFCON’s relief effort, get relief and settle in evacu- ner organization on the ductible. fected over 5.1 million indi- which is part of its overall ation centers because the ground in Mindanao. For more information on viduals, with the areas most mission to protect the rights Aquino government is not re- Donations can be made regional collection centers, affected as Compostela Val- and welfare of Filipinos in the ally doing anything. Now, this through PayPal at fundraising and relief activi- ley, Davao Oriental and Suri- U.S. and around the world, typhoon ravaged the whole http://tinyurl.com/nafconre- ties, please go online and gao del Sur. The latest has assisted victims of ty- of Mindanao and parts of the lief3 or by sending checks to visit: http://nafconusa.org/.
Food & leiSUre (cont. from page 12; WHO ... ) herbal (or so it said on the Being a foodie and trying to it nourishes both figuratively mantra: “Let food be thy box) appetite suppressants be healthy at the same time and literally. Let the words of medicine and medicine be a Personal ConFession and between intense work, is a constant battle. But yes, Hippocrates be our new thy food.” No, I am not a beacon of stress and daily intensive I know it is possible. The good health and nutrition. I’m exercise, I finished last French have been doing it alUGbati FRittata just like everyone else — week by fainting. Yes, a se- for ages! And why? Be- (Serves 6-8) torn between enjoying life’s rious “blackout, smelling cause they eat everything. Ingredients: epicurean indulgences and salts, carry her to a chair” They love veggies as much 8 eggs leading a healthy lifestyle. fainting spell. While I should as they love their foie gras. 1/2 cup milk Every so often I fall into that already be happy with how I They also have massive re- 1 cup grated cheese of choice trap, forgetting that health is look and my generally spect and support for agri- 1 large onion not just staying slim. Just healthy lifestyle, it’s difficult culture and fresh produce. 2 cloves garlic last week, after a few not to be influenced by the They eat real food and not 4 cups uncooked alugbati leaves chopped roughly; months of deliriously amaz- prevalent national attitude processed foods. salt and pepper to taste; olive oil ing food adventures, I had towards food: Indulge, but For people like me who Procedure: packed on a few pounds then you have to have a six- love to eat, food is a comfort, In a non-stick pan, heat some olive oil and saute garlic that simple exercise was not pack. Oh, and let’s take a a source of joy … but its and onions till soft and light golden brown. Add the alugbati shedding. I had taken some pill for all the missing stuff. most beautiful aspect is that leaves and let wilt. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about two to three minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Spread the onions, garlic and alug- bati evenly in the pan and pour the egg mixture on top. Add some grated cheese all over. Season with salt and pepper. Turn down heat and cover pan. Let the egg cook slowly from bottom up for about 10 minutes. There is no need to flip over the frittata. For quicker cooking you may also place the pan in the oven, uncovered if the pan is oven proof. Red Rice Risotto (Serves two) Ingredients: 2 cups cooked red rice 1/2 onion minced 1 clove garlic 1/2 cup squash cubes 1/4 cup crumbled feta 1/2 cup white wine 1/2 cup chicken stock Salt and pepper to taste fresh thyme for garnish olive oil
Procedure: In a deep skillet, heat olive oil and saute onions, garlic and squash. Cook the squash for about seven minutes or until cooked through. Add the red rice. Add the white wine and some chicken stock on high heat. Let the liquid reduce. Add some crumbled feta. Season with salt and pepper. Stir through. The texture should be neither soupy nor dry but slightly creamy. Garnish with more feta and fresh thyme. (www.philstar.com) DecemBer 15, 2012 News Edition 15 COmmUNITy CAlENDAR ClaSSiFied adS
PaRol Festival / sUNdaY ● Nov. 30-Dec 15, 2012 ● donation of $5.00. Tickets are also available at Saint AL PHILLIPS THE CLEANER Philippine Consulate ● Please contact 596-6316 ext. 106 or email Anthony’s Kalihi office P/T, F/T Costumer Service/Alterations [email protected] Training, High Pay with benefits PasKo sa Filcom / sUNdaY ● December 16, Call: 284-7878 saN PedRo calUNGsod thaNKsGiviNG mass 2012, ● 94-428 Mokuola Street, Waipahu ● 3:30 - 7:30 celebRatioN / sUNdaY ● December 16, 2012, ● St. Anthony PM ● please contact, Gene Lumantas @ 623-0598 home BUSINESS DIRECTORy Church, Kalihi ● For dinner reservation, please contact, Gene or (714) For inquiries, contact (808) 680-0451 or email: Lumantas @ 623-0598 home or (714) 767-4076 cell, for food ticket [email protected]. MaiNlaNd NeWS Released ‘Classified’ Document May Help tion were denied claims, and are in WWII Filvets’ Cause now waiting on the Department of by mico leTarGO/ Veterans Affairs (VA) for the rul- Saturday, December 8, 2012 ings on their appeals. LOS ANGELES – A DOCU- Of the remaining veterans, MENT RECENTLY RE- only 43,083 filed for claims under LEASED by the White House the compensation fund. If the ap- may prove as a potential break- plications are successful, one- through in the long enduring time grants of $15,000 will be cause for due recognition of the given to veterans based in the US, elderly Filipino veterans, who while $9,000 will be given to those fought under the United States based in the Philippines. command in World War II. According to NAM, the VA ini- The document, which previ- Filipino World War II veterans tially approved 18,698 applica- ously had classified information, “It is our priority,” Obama said tions, while more than half were could finally loosen the grip of the , in a report from New America denied for the program. Among US Armed Forces on the remain- Media. the estimated 24,000 former sol- ing amounts of compensatory Secretary Lu told the veterans diers whose applications were funds payable to the aging veter- and advocates that an Intera- turned down, only 4,000 filed to ans. gency Working Group of repre- appealed for reconsideration. On Nov. 19, the White House sentatives from different The rejections precipitated Initiative on Asian Americans & government departments will an- comments from veterans’ welfare Pacific Islanders announced that alyze the eligibility process to en- advocates, saying that there is an the National Archives & Records sure that all applications are given “unjustly complicated standard” Administration has released to the fair deliberations. that makes it difficult for the elders public a 335-page report (entitled, At the same event, ACFV ex- to prove their qualification for the “US Army Recognition Program of ecutive director Eric Lachica compensation packages. Many Philippine Guerrillas”) that could spoke to VA Secretary Eric Shin- believe that their disqualification help swing the tide for the vets. seki. Lachica expressed his grati- can be traced to the stern rules set The report was compiled after tude to Shinseki for the latter’s by the VA in 2011. the end of WWII. It includes docu- support of the Interagency Work- Under these rules, the Na- mentation issued by the US Army ing Group. tional Personnel Records Center during and after the war. Filvet ad- In a separate interview, must certify that an applicant’s vocates believe that these records Lachica reiterated the need to ex- name appears on both the Roster can make a strong impact on the pedite the resolution on the veter- of Troops and the Discharge List results of pending appeals filed by ans’ appeals because of the prepared by the US Army at the veterans and their surviving kin. looming ‘fiscal cliff.’ The ACFV end of WWII. However, many of Notably included in this report head said that the budget cuts the names can only be found in ei- are the official rosters of what the could impact the VA budget. ther one list or the other, but never US Army deems as “recognized” Most Filipino veterans, now in both. guerilla units. These rosters could their mid-80s and 90s, are dying A number of those names are potentially bolster the claims of out at an alarming rate. Of the also found in the records of the the elderly soldiers. original 550,000 fighters from US Commonwealth Philippine In a Veteran’s Day engage- WWII, only about 50,000 vets now Army, which are also archived at ment at the White House, repre- remain. the National Personnel Records sentatives of the American The ACFV estimates that Center. The US Army has how- Coalition of Filipino Veterans around 300 of them pass away ever determined that these files (ACFV) were invited to meet the per month on average. At this “are not official.” president. There, President rate, in roughly 13 years, almost The ACFV is appealing that the Obama received a letter from the all of the remaining veterans will US government considers all other coalition expressing their appreci- have passed away. records of war service, as they be- ation of Cabinet Secretary Chris Lu In 2009, Congress passed the lieve that these could help the and his efforts in the Filvets’ cause. Filipino Veterans Equity Compen- 4,000 applicants who filed appeals Advocates also called on sation Act as part of an economic for the compensation program. Obama to prioritize the delibera- stimulus package enacted in that Furthermore, they believe that the tions and the decision-making on year. recently released records would the pending appeals of the veter- However, thousands of sol- make a strong impact on the delib- ans. diers who applied for compensa- erations. (www.asianjournal.com) News Edition DecemBer 15, 2012