PAGE 2 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 STATEWIDE COMMUNITY CALENDAR Compiled by AMELIA CASAMINA CABATU

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

OAHU Ewa Beach Golf Club. 91-050 Fort Weaver APRIL 15, 2017 businesses and promote Filipino Culture and schools & presentation of the continuing Road Ewa Beach Hawaii. The proceeds from Filipino Women’s Club of Hawaii Foundation Cuisine Contact Persons: Cecilia Villafuerte scholar recipients, and announcement of the MARCH 5, 2017 the tournament will fund the Foundation’s (Formerly known as the Hawaii Filipino 780-4985, Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Trailblazer of the year award. Empress Fil-Am Courier Community Hour on KNDI scholarship program. Looking for interested Women’s Club) Annual Terno Ball Ala Moana Amelia Casamina Cabatu 282-2033 Restaurant. 100 N. Beretania St. 6:00 PM. 1270 AM Radio; 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Log on players. Contact Persons: Eddie Agas 783- Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact We are currently searching for the parents/ to www.kndi.com and/or www.filamcourier 3327, Jack Legal 284-6832, Bernadette Persons: Nelly Pongco Liu 228-7808, Carlota JUNE 10, 2017 parent of the year who sacrificed to send .com and Social Media FB Page Fil-Am Fajardo 342-8090 Ader 797-4381, Mercy Mullins 226-1320 119th Philippine Independence Day their children (3 minimum) to college and/or Courier with your host Amelia Casamina Celebration presented by the Philippine universities & have attained their professional Cabatu. For more info call Amelia at (808) APRIL 8,2017 APRIL 30, 2017 Celebrations Coordinating Committee of chosen careers. Contact Persons: Janice 282-2033 Annual commemoration of the Araw Ng Filipino Business Woman Association Hawaii (PCCCH) in cooperation with the Sevilla 595-8000, Lina Longboy 421-7381, Kagitingan coordinated by the Philippine (FBWA) Scholarship Fundraising event. Philippine Consulate General, Hilton Leo Rojas Gozar 630-6268, Maggie Domingo MARCH 12, 2017 Consulate General in Honolulu in cooperation Rumours Nightclub Ala Moana Hotel. 6:00 Hawaiian Village Resorts Tapa Ballroom. 783-0068 San Juan “Lapog” Association of Hawaii with the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating PM-11:00 PM; Cost: $30.00 Pre- paid, $35.00 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Cecilia Villafuerte Installation of New Officers. Empress Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) National at the Door. Contact Person: Elsa Talavera 780-4985, Bennette Misalucha 398-5988, SEPTEMBER 16, 2017 Restaurant ,100 N. Beretania St.; 6:00 PM. Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. 9:00 AM- 358-8964 Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Amelia Filipino Women’s Civic Club (FWCC) Annual Cost: $45.00 Contact Persons: Alice 11:00AM; Contact Persons: Cecilia Casamina Cabatu 282-2033 Maria Clara Ball 2017. Ala Moana Hotel Castaneda 230-4095, Flori Padua 542-5458, Villafuerte 780-4985, Philippine Consulate MAY 6, 2017 Hibiscus Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact Norma Gascon 391-9682, Aurea Valdez 864- General Honolulu 595-6316 25th Annual Filipino Fiesta & Parade (5th JUNE 23, 2017 Persons: Rose Galanto 688-4458, Cecilia 0647 Flores De Mayo) Kapiolani Park, Waikiki. Rotary Club of Kapolei 2017-2018 Installation Villafuerte 780-4985 APRIL 8, 2017 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. For sponsorship and of Officers and Board of Directors. Fil-Com MARCH 10–12, 2017 Associated Chinese University Women, booth information contact the Fil-Com Center Center, 94-428 Mokuola Street Waipahu, OCTOBER 20, 2017 The 23rd Honolulu Festival, Hawaii’s Premier Inc., presents “With a Song in My Heart” Arceli Rebollido 808-680-0451 or HI. 6:00 PM; Cost: $50.00 for Dinner, Filipino Community Center, Inc. Bayanihan Cultural Event. Activities includes: March Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach email:[email protected] Entertainment, Door Prizes and Rotary Gala Fundraiser honoring extraordinary Acts 10, 2017 International Friendship Gala, 6:00 Resorts, Coral Ballroom, 9:00 AM. Coral Foundation RSVP to Rev. Alex Vergara, of Servicefor more information and PM. Hawaii Convention Center, March 11, Lounge Marketplace opens 11:25 AM – 1:30 MAY 13, 2017 RCK President at 808-5514303 or email: sponsorship opportunities contact Fil-Com 2017. Craft Fair and Cultural Performances PM Program, Luncheon, Fashions. Featured Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii [email protected] Center (808) 680-0451 Hawaii Convention Center, March 12, 2017 Entertainers: Kristian Lei & Baritone Chris Filipino Entrepreneur of the Year and the Craft Fair at the Convention Center with a Lowe, Fashions by Anne Namba, Benefit Filipino Young Entrepreneur of the Year and JULY 8, 2017 NOVEMBER 4, 2017 Grand Parade on Kalakaua Avenue. The Scholarship, Community, Cultural Programs. Scholarship Awards Gala. Fil-Com Center Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Filipino Business Women’s Association Philippine Consulate is in partnership with Tickets $75.00 payable to “ACUW 94-428 Mokuola Street Waipahu, HI. 6:00 (FCCH) Installation of New Officers and (FBWA) presents the Annual Kimona Ball Philippine Airlines, Congress of Visayan Fundraiser”. Mail to P.O. Box 62264 Honolulu, PM – 11:00 PM; Contact Persons: Rocky Board of directors. 6:00 PM; Hilton Hawaiian and the Business Woman of the Year Awards Organization (COVO), Filipino Chamber of Hawaii 96839. Contact Phone Numbers: Anguay, 387-5821, Bernadette Fajardo 342- Village Resorts, Tapa Ballroom. Contact Ceremony. Dole Cannery Pomaikai Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) and the Tickets: 599-4386 or 839-5452 8090 Persons: Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Ballroom. 735 Iwilei Road, Honolulu, HI 6:00 FilCom Center for a bigger, colorful, and Brandon Dela Cruz 389-0517 PM; Contact Person: Elsa Talavera 358-8964 culturally-rich Philippine participation. For APRIL 8, 2017 JUNE 1-7, 2017 more information visit their website at http:/ The 45th Anniversary of the University of Adobo Festival, the very first in Hawaii AUGUST 26, 2017 KAUAI /www.honolulufestival.com Hawaii Ilokano Program & The 25th presented by the Philippine Celebrations Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Anniversary of the Timpuyog Ilokano Student Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) Recognition Night honoring the 2017 Parents/ APRIL 29, 2017 MARCH 24, 2017 Organization at UH Manoa. Hale Koa Hotel in Cooperation with the Filipino Chamber of parent of the year, recognizing the 2017 Kauai Philippine Cultural Center 6th Major Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Waikiki Ballroom. 5:30 PM; Contact Person: Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) and the Hawaii outstanding achievements of graduating high Fundraising Event Titled “Lets Show the 23rd Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament, Dr. Aurelio Solver Agcaoili via Facebook Restaurant Association to promote local school valedictorians in public and private World”. 5:30 PM; Kauai Marriott Grand Ballroom. Make checks payable to Kauai Philippine Cultural Center. PO Box 1961 Lihue, Hawaii 96766 Contact Information on the web: www.kauaiphilippinecultural center.org or email: [email protected]

For Advertising information, please call 595.8787 THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 3

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

PUBLISHER Mary Llanos Cordero

MANAGING EDITOR Bennette Espineli Misalucha DIRECTOR OF DESIGN Parenting for Armando Dela Cruz Busmente

PRODUCTION MANAGER Alice Llanos Busmente

ASSISTANT EDITOR Radiant Cordero COPY EDITOR Success Danielle Evangelista By BENNETTE ESPINELI MISALUCHA PHOTOGRAPHERS/GRAPHICS Brandon dela Cruz Noah Felipe Gabe de Liso My mom taught my siblings how And what is the best approach to Jeff Orig James Ramos to read, but that was the full extent of learning? I ask myself, in hindsight, COLUMNISTS her participation in our schoolwork. what is the balance we need to seek— Edna Alikpala Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq. Don’t get me wrong—she was a loving knowing full well that the appropriate Jesse Bacon II Nancy Bernal parent and as a school teacher, she answer lies between the extreme Cesar Bonilla Alice Llanos Busmente could have done more to tutor us, her hands-off approach of my parents’ Amelia Casamina Cabatu Anabel Gasmen Cabebe children, on the subjects we struggled generation and the extreme hands-on Dr. Rickie Camara Dr. Patricia Halagao with. parenting style of baby boomers like Zeny Muyot Angie Santiago But both my parents developed me? Perfecto Yasay Jr. a hands-off approach to our schooling How much dose of reality can CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Conrad Abuel and left us to sort through our failures. we share with our dear children? Ric Agnes Paul Alimbuyao Doing our homework was a given, and While we do not want them to live life Ria Baldevia Eriza Bareng when we did not do them, we learned as if they have their heads up in the Marnelli Joy Basilio Bernie Caalim to deal with the consequences of our clouds, we also do not want them to Randy Cortez Radiant Cordero actions. I was not coddled or told that walk around, totally bitter or negative Mary Cruzada Jaime de Jesus I was exceptional. On the contrary, on life. Brandon dela Cruz Christian Evangelista my parents gave us space to fail. They It is a complex issue that I am Imelda Gasmen Veronika Geronimo did not panic. They had faith that we still trying to think about. As a parent, Leo Gozar Ben Gutierrez would somehow figure it out and I have to admit I do not have all the Kathleen Lee Carmela Minaya eventually succeed. True to form, I answers. My own children have now Gladys Quinto Marrone Gladys Menor initially struggled. But over time, I grown. They are not perfect but they John Pagaragan Paola Rodelas learned coping mechanisms and I did are both comfortable in their own skin. Judy Relosimon Sandra Sagisi figure things out. I graduated They survived my parenting during their schooldays: Danielle and Christian Love prevailed. We have remained Nicole Velasco Jason Ubay salutatorian of my graduating class Evangelista with Christian's girlfriend, Carolyn Dunlea. close. They have survived my Michi Villaruz and all of the siblings after me disappointment, so in athletics and in The conversation was triggered parenting. NEIGHBOR ISLAND BUREAU Maui graduated with honors. other “competitive” events, we gave by the experience of a friend’s Fortunately, there are other Kit Zulueta Jeremy Zane The one thing that my parents each of the participants a trophy. We daughter who had recently graduated things in life that we are certain about. Big Island did teach me to dream. They planted told our children they were special from a good university on the The fact about how one’s culture can Mil Asuncion Jane Clement the notion in my head that I can aspire and that they could do anything, (yes, Mainland. Armed with this firm belief enhance and deepen the educational Dr. Margarita Hopkins anything!) and they promptly believed (planted by the parents with good Kauai to greatness and that if I work hard, I experience is one. Virgie Cruzada us. intentions of course) —that she was Liza Trinidad can achieve my goals. My Papa, who Our cover story this issue is Marynell Valenzuela was ahead of his time, particularly And boy, were we involved in our special, she moved to a city where about a group of Filipino-American ADVERTISING SALES children’s schoolwork! I remember she thought it would be easy to find a Marivic Aldaya embedded the conviction that I, a girl, educators at the University of Mary Cordero staying up all night supporting my son job. After writing her 200th resume Annabel Cabebe am equal to any task that a boy can Hawaii’s College of Education,who Florence Tan McCollom Christian as he scrambled to finish without even a job offer, she went Lydia Kamiya do. It was a principle I took to heart are moving forward with their Joni Redick-Yundt Rudy Bautista and served me well as I navigated my his science project. I did not go to through some soul searching and initiatives. Called Tinalak, the group Marynel Valenzuela career in male-dominated fields. bed until he was finally done. Or how tough times. She expected sunny seeks to “envision, inspire, and CIRCULATION Florence Tan (Oahu) When I became a parent at 26, a bad grade would elicit a phone call skies as painted to her by her parents weave together Hawai»i’s new Ron Oshiro (Leeward Oahu) David Cordero (Maui) the parenting styles had evolved. In to my daughter Danielle’s teacher but when it did not happen, generation of teachers through the Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai) Milli Asuncion (Big Island) the 80’s, an involved parent was the asking to meet— to discuss how this disillusionment set in. The story recruitment and support of Filipinos

LEGAL COUNSEL ideal figure, and from amongst the could be prevented in the future. eventually did have a happy ending in the education profession.” Alfredo Evangelista, Esq. Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.) fellow parents of my generation, we How many of you left work to go (i.e. the daughter finally found a job, This is our first Education Issue strived to demonstrate that loving our back home because your child forgot earning minimum wage) and my cover story, and it is one that we hope children meant being in their lives his homework on the kitchen table? I friends and I dissected how parents to do on a yearly basis. We will also THE FIL-AM COURIER is published twice a month by constantly. raise my hand as I aided and abetted shape their children’s world view soon be launching a monthly education OAHU RELOCATION SERVICES located at 2221 Liliha St. I believe the term they now use my two children while they were in about learning, about life, its realities issues column, which will be written Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own elementary or high school.My parents and challenges. and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am to describe us, is “helicopter parent”. by the members of Tinalak. Look for Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and other material submitted. Repro- Okay, I confess I was the classic would never have done that for us. So if the parents’ role in life is to it in future issues. duction of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am courier is forbidden without written permission. All textbook definition of one. My oh my, I now see the folly of prepare your child to eventually stand Education feeds the mind. But photos submitted become the property of the Fil- Am Courier. The prevailing thought then was my ways. on their own two feet, does one imbue Education and Culture feeds the soul. Telephone: 808.595.8787 Facsimile: 808.595.6883 that our children have to be somehow I was reminded of my background them with this unshakeable belief that We wish Tinalak success in its E-Mail: [email protected] www.filamcourier.net “managed.” They needed to have recently when I had a conversation they are destined to greatness so they efforts. We look forward to seeing MEMBER structure in their lives. We filled their with some dear friends on how plow through disappointments? Or tangible results in the near future. HFAMC Federation of Filipino American Media Associations days with piano lessons, dance, parenting styles have shifted during should we tell them to brace of the United States and Canada soccer and a long list of activities. our time. themselves for the bumps that are FFAMAS Hawaii Filipino American Media Council We wanted to shield our children from certain to come? All rights reserved printed in the u.s.a © PAGE 4 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017

By:

Dr. HANNAH TAVARES & DR. RAJU DE SAI

ABOUT OUR COVER

Our cover photo features the members of Tinalak, the Filipino Education Advisory Council at the University of Hawaii Manoa's College of Education.

First Row: Chantelle Awana, Shannon Cristobal, Dr. Virgie Chattergy, Dr. Niki Libarios; Second Overview: society,” the Filipino Education produce more Filipino educators language courses(Fall 2012 to Row: Teresa Hodges, Debra At 25.1%, Filipinos represent a Advisory Council was established in in Hawaii. present) Arellano, Jennifer Padua, Dr. signification portion of Hawaii’s the COE in Fall 2012. Rosela Balinbin Santos, Dr. Patricia population, making it the second This council is named after 2. To provide professional • Awarded five Filipino COE Halagao; Third Row: Raju DeSai, largest ethnic group in Hawai‘i. Tinalak, the hand-woven natural cloth development for pre-service and students $200 each to pay for Rachel Quinajon, Amy Sojot, Ivee Similarly, Filipinos are the second designed from the dreams of the in-service teachers in PRAXIS tests via funding from a Cruz, Dr. Hannah Tavares, Dr. largest student group in the Hawai‘i indigenous T´boli people of the understanding and working with Diversity and Equity Initiative Robert Bachini Department of Education public Philippines. Symbolizing “dream Filipino students. Award from the UHM Office of schools (DOE) representing 22.4% weavers”, the charge of Tinalak is to Student Equity, Excellence, and Photo credit: Brandon Dela Cruz, of the student population at the K-12 envision, inspire, and weave together 3. To increase the number of Diversity (Spring 2013) Marketing Director for L&L level. Hawaii’s new generation of educators Filipino faculty in the COE. Franchises. However, Filipino teachers only through the recruitment and support • Co-taught ITE 360 Introduction make up 6% of the DOE teaching of Filipinos in the education field. Accomplishments Fall 2012 to Multicultural Education with Cover concept by Noah Felipe of profession and Filipino students to Fall 2016: Filipino Focus (Fall 2013) Orig Media. Mahalo to Jeff Orig. represent only 8.2% of the population The Tinalak council is comprised of Both Noah and Jeff can be reached in University of Hawai‘i College of tenured COE instructional and • Planning meetings to establish • Filipino American Book & at www.Origmedia.com or at (808) Education (COE), the primary student services faculty, COE Tinalak and Tinalak activities Curriculum Fair (Oct 29, 2013; 447 9559. producer of teachers in the DOE. Filipino doctoral students, and the (Fall 2012) Oct11, 2016) Furthermore, Filipinos represent only Director of the Office of Student 3.1% of the faculty in the COE. In Equity, Excellence, and Diversity. • Targeted recruitment at high • Fil-Am Courier articles by each sum, Filipino DOE teachers, Filipino They serve in advisory roles to the percentage Filipino community Tinalak Advisory Council COE students, and Filipino COE COE Dean. The goals of Tinalak are colleges/high schools, including member on issues related to faculty are severely underrepresented three-fold: Waipahu High School, Filipinos in education (Dec 2013 and do not reflect the community it Farrington High School, to present) serves. 1. To recruit, retain, and graduate Campbell High School, the UH In accord with the COE’s mission Filipino students (Tinalak community colleges, as well as • UH System Pamantasan to “prepare professionals to contribute scholars) from the COE to in the UHM Ilokano and Filipino Conference Presentation on to a just, diverse, and democratic “Filipinos in Hawai‘i Public

The UH College of Education operates from two main buildings, Wist and Everly Halls. University of Hawaii At Manoa. THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 5

Higher Education” and impact on the health, education, and “Education for College, Career, welfare of children and youth. and Community” (Mar 21, 2014)

• 2014 Filipino American National FilGrad – Filipino Graduation Historical Society Conference Recognition Ceremony presentation on “Filipinos in We are pleased to announce that Hawai‘i Public Education: the first ever UH Manoa FilGrad Challenges and Opportunities at the K-12 through Higher Filipino Graduation Recognition Education Levels” San Diego, Ceremony that will take place May CA (July 29, 2014) 2017. The purposes of FilGrad are to promote the matriculation of UH • Fresh of the Boat Filipino Canoe Manoa Filipino students at the Fundraiser (Oct 12, 2014) university; to encourage current non- graduating Filipino students to • Established COE Tinalak succeed in higher education; and to Foundations Account with initial emphasize the importance of funding donated by tenured collective efforts in helping students Tinalak Council members (Feb to graduate. 2015) FilGrad is significant because Filipino students are severely under- • Created Tinalak logo depicting represented in higher education. Hawaii and the Tinalak woven Student Equity, Excellence, and 2017 New and On-going • Establish COE Tinalak Filipinos comprise 25.1% of the cloth (March 2015) Diversity (Spring 2016) Projects: Scholarship population in Hawai’i and are the • Center for Philippines Studies • Increased Tinalak membership • Awarded fourteen $140 PRAXIS • Targeted recruitment at high second largest ethnic group in th 40 Anniversary in 2015 to fifteen members and created a test stipends. percentage Filipino community Hawai’i. However, Filipino students conference presentation titled Listserve mailing list for Tinalak colleges/high schools and in are only 10.6% of undergraduate “Woven Dreams: A Panel members (July 2016) • Educational Perspectives UHM Philippine Language students and 4.2% of graduate Discussion from the College of Journal of the UH Manoa College courses students at UH Manoa and thus are Education, University of Hawai’i • Created a Facebook page for of Education special themed underrepresented at the university at Mânoa” (April 4, 2015) Tinalak events and other issue on Filipinos and education • SEED Office Diversity Initiative level in relation to the population in information (Aug 2016) authored by Tinalak Council Award for PRAXIS Hawai’i. • Awarded fourteen $140 PRAXIS members reimbursements for Filipino COE Filipino commencement test stipends to Filipino Leeward • Special Message from Governor students ceremonies on the continental U.S. Community College students David Y. Ige Presented to the • Philippines Study Abroad (particularly in California) attest to who intend to transfer to the UH Tinalak Filipino Education Initiative • Submitted workshop proposal their value, impact, and success in Manoa College of Education and Advisory Council recognizing Weaving Dreams as Filipino supporting the matriculation of Filipino become teachers. These the Filipino American Book • Monthly Fil-Am Courier articles Educational Praxis UH System scholarships were funded from Curriculum Fair (October 11, by each Tinalak Advisory Pamantasan Conference to be college students. They exemplify the a Diversity and Equity Initiative 2016) Council member held March 17, 2017 importance in collective efforts Award from the UHM Office of (community and institutional) at • UH Manoa FilGrad (Filipino supporting Filipino student graduation recognition matriculation. Related to the direct ceremony) to be held May 2017 impact it has on the graduates, FilGrad has a broader significance to Tinalak Statement in Regards their families and communities by to Current Administration publicly recognizing the graduates’ educational success. The Filipino Education Advisory In the context of UH Manoa, it Council stands in solidarity with will counter a pervasive and students and communities that are the detrimental narrative in our most vulnerable under the current communities that Filipino students are administration. The students we unprepared, uninterested, ill-suited, serve, and we ourselves, include or lack the skills and supports to Filipino, Native Hawaiian, Asian, succeed. Thus, we hope to initiate at Pacific Islander, Black, Latino, White, UH Manoa a tradition of recognizing Immigrant, Muslim, LGBTQ, persons Filipino educational success. living with disabilities, and more . Any U.H. Manoa student, Tinalak’s mission values undergraduate or graduate, that is diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, planning to graduate in either Spring and we renounce racism, bigotry, or or Summer 2017 is eligible to apply. discrimination in any form. We will Please complete the application form continue to support and defend at https://goo.gl/forms/xecZYJmjE policies that increase opportunities MN6EWDj2 for our students and have a positive PAGE 6 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 Exploring Race Identity Issues By BENNETTE ESPINELI MISALUCHA

There is a level of engagement that permeates those involved in Tinalak. They seem genuinely interested in the outcomes. Perhaps, it the spirit of collegiality that seems to exist. It's always interesting to uncover what fuels the passion of those who have committed to bring much needed changes to the status quo. In the case of the Tinalak group, we wanted to know more about what fuels the passion of those who have committed to bring much needed changes to the way we educate our Filipino community. What values do they share with the constituency they serve? What challenges did they Dr. Niki Libarios Dr. Raju DeSai overcome before they arrived at the place where they could then sets of my grandparents came from raised in the Excelsior District of San 2) As a child, were you aware of your parents then decided to move nearer effectively teach and influence the the Philippines to work on the sugar Francisco, California. I have been in ethnic identity? Was it a positive or to our family in Aiea and Waipahu, next generation? cane plantation of Kohala, Big Island. Hawai’i since August 2013 when I first negative experience? Please share and be exposed to more Filipinos. Here are the personal insights Undereducated only up to the 3rd grade entered the PhD program in stories to support this perspective. from members, Dr. Niki Libarios and level at most, it is on the plantation Education at UH Mânoa. I am currently De Sai :Being mixed heritage, I Dr. Raju DeSai and an essay from Dr. where they met their spouses and a doctoral student in Curriculum Libarios: As a young child, no! guess I was always aware of ethnicity. Patricia Halagao. committed to working hard, so that Studies, a graduate assistant in the In fact, my Dad, Ernie Libarios, often I understood that I was Indian and they can provide an education and department of Special Education, and reminds me of a story that was a wake Filipino but couldn’t always 1. First, please share some personal improved way of life for their children. a lecturer in the Filipino program. I up moment for him. I grew up in distinguish who I was since my entire context — i.e. first generation or I am currently the Director of have been a member of Tinalak since Hawaii Kai until I was about seven mom’s side is Indipino and I noticed a second generation, born in Hawaii? Student Services for the University I started at UH. As a member of years old and there were very few distinct difference between our culture raised elsewhere, etc. and where of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa), Tinalak, I coordinated the first and Filipinos living in that area, if any, at on that side of the family than the parents are from. Then, please state College of Education. I am the second Filipino American Book & that time. One day, my dad and mom culture of my father and his family in your position in the department and administrator of an office that Curriculum Fair, co-taught the ITE 360 (the late Shirley Libarios) took me to India. I think it was always a positive describe your duties. oversees the admissions, recruitment, Filipino focused Multicultural a parade in Waipahu where I saw a experience for me though—at least in advising, retention, and graduation for Education class (Fall 2013), Portuguese looking lady speaking to my home and in the Excelsior where Libarios: I am a third generation the College of Education. presented at conferences, written a Filipino person and innocently said, there were a lot of Filipinos. It wasn’t Filipino who was born and raised in articles, and am currently organizing “That lady is so brave talking to until later, when I got older that I Hawaii. A local boy, I am half Visayan De Sai: I am a second-generation the first FilGrad (Filipino graduation Filipinos.” My dad recalls saying to started having more negative and half Ilocano. My father’s side of Indipino American (the child of recognition ceremony) at UH Mânoa. my mom, “My God, that boy doesn’t experiences. my family is from Bohol and my immigrants from Mumbai, India and know his heritage!” Taken aback, my mother’s side is from Ilocos Sur. Both Manila, Philippines). I was born and 3) If you were not aware of your ethnic identity as a child, when did you first have that awakening? Please share details.

Libarios: Up through high school, I didn’t feel a full sense pride of being Filipino. I was affected by the negative stereotypes of Filipinos and hid behind saying that I was part Spanish or part Chinese because of my slanted eyes.

4) To what extent did your home environment shape your cultural identity? Did your parents raise you with Filipino values? Or were you raised as an “American”?

Libarios: Yes, I grew up being very aware of Filipino customs, the food, I was brought up in the Catholic church, and I knew bits and pieces of THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 7 the Ilocano and Visayan dialects, they have made for their children and That’s something positive to build on. especially when I got scolding by my grandchildren. Among the things I What’s helping this greatly is that grandparents! I enjoyed our family appreciate the most about them is that there are more and more “visible” parties, particularly when it was an they emphasized the importance of a Filipino role models in our community. ON BEING all day event where we would college education. More so, the work We see these folks in areas such as slaughter and roast the lechon. At that my parents have done to help business, politics, education, my paternal grandparents house, we Filipinos and other underrepresented/ medicine, law, engineering, etc…. performed the rosary daily, but I at-risk students over their careers in These individuals should be BROWN always felt spooked by the hologram education greatly shaped who I’ve highlighted as an important statement like picture of Jesus who followed me become and my career path. Other for our people and the progress we with his eyes throughout the living Filipinos who have influenced me are have made. room! In all, as a youngster I grew up Dr. Amy Agbayani and Dr. Virgie being Filipino, but just didn’t outwardly Chattergy. I’m also impacted by my De Sai: Since I have mostly share it with others, especially my Filipino-Samoan “twin brother”, Leon taught Ethnic Studies, I am used to school friends. Florendo, and my work at UH Manoa most of my students beginning to through Tinalak. really embrace their identity as they De Sai: I think I was raised with learn more and more about ethnic many different values that all blended De Sai: I have had many role studies and their own heritage. together—Filipino, Indian, American. models—all of whom are strong I think the biggest thing was that I was women. In my family, there was mother 9) What do we as a community need raised to think critically about race, who is my first teacher, my to do to change or improve the status class, and gender. My mom, grandmother who was my first quo? grandmother, and tita instilled the Tagalog teacher, my Tita Lin who was By PATRICIA ESPIRITU HALAGAO importance of not judging someone the one who first brought me to the Libarios: We need to promote the because of their identity in me from Philippines and taught me all about importance of a college education Growing up, I didn’t want to be Brown. I wanted to be an early age. Filipino cuisine. Academically, there among our Filipino youth and improve White. I was born in the Philippines, but moved to the United States is Ate Allyson Tintiango-Cubales from our Filipino public higher education when I was six weeks old. I was a first generation immigrant raised in a 5) What is the story of your cultural San Francisco State who not only attendance rates, particularly at UH largely White community in the Midwest and I felt contradictions on a transformation? Was it a gradual helped me feel more comfortable in Manoa. Higher education is key a daily basis. change? Or was there a dramatic other Filipino spaces as an Indipino, means for social mobility and an As a child of two Filipino physicians, I belonged to a privileged turning point? but who also got me into teaching important measure of an socio economic class, but I never felt like I fit in. Though my family Filipino American Studies at the high economically thriving community. Libarios: It wasn’t until college school my cousins went to. As an With Filipinos now being the second practiced Filipino culture and traditions at home and my mother was one where I began to learn about and felt educator, she was the one teacher who largest ethnic group in our state, all of of my greatest role models, I always downplayed being Filipino in school. pride in my Filipino identity. At that always made sure to let me know that Hawaii would benefit through a greater I was ashamed of my parents’ Filipino accents and speaking Tagalog. time, I met other Filipino college she saw me even though I was the higher education achievement among Stereotypes and discriminatory experiences like being told, “to go back students and began to get involved student that never wanted to be seen. Filipinos. home where I came from” further dug away at my ethnic pride and with Filipino clubs and organizations, She more than anyone, has probably confidence. such as Susi Ng Pilipinas (Leeward shaped the educator that I am today. De Sai: I think our community My life turned around when we moved to Stockton, California, CC Filipino Club), Sariling Gawa needs to come together more and where we were surrounded by ethnic diversity. But I later realized as an (Filipino youth organization), and felt 7) What is your advice to young really work together. We need to move elementary teacher in an inner-city public school in Oakland that diversity supported through various programs people who are searching for their beyond some of the divisions that offered by Operation Manong at UH identity? stem from the Philippines in order to didn’t matter without equity and justice. I saw inequities all around my Manoa. I even joined a professional collectively address some of the largely Latino, Vietnamese, and Cambodian students - the same kind of Filipino dance troupe called Libarios: I’d like to encourage issues that affect us all as Filipinas/ cultural denigration I faced, but more systemic. For example, my school Himigbayan! Now, with my wife Laurie, young Filipinos to embrace their os here in Hawai»i and in the rest of was 95% African American, yet if you had a “foreign sounding last name” we encourage our daughters (Joy and identity through the realization that we the US. I think we need to create more you were funneled into my English-as-a-Second Language (ESL) class, Faith) to embrace and grow in their Filipinos have a lot to be proud of and spaces and opportunities where we without English proficiency testing. Therefore, I made it a point to integrate Filipino-Okinawan-Japanese that our Filipino culture is woven into can come together and have real their home languages and cultural backgrounds into the curriculum to identities. the very fabric of what it means to be dialogue with one another where we counter Eurocentric and western dominance. “local” in Hawaii today. For example, truly listen to each other’s ideas, I pursued my Ph.D. in multicultural education at the University De Sai: I think there were many not too long ago, people used to tease struggles, needs, and dreams. events and experiences that affected us about the kind of food we eat. But of Washington to further my understanding of how to challenge these my cultural transformation. I think one look now at Pearlridge Center Food 10. What do you find most fulfilling in kinds of inequities in our schools and simultaneously explored my own of the biggest events was my first trip court and who has by the longest lines. your job? ethnic identity. I enrolled in a Filipino American studies course taught by to the Philippines with my tita when I It’s Bautista’s Filipino Kitchen! Drs. Fred and Dorothy Cordova, where it was the first time I learned was fourteen. That was the time when Libarios: The most fulfilling part about myself as Filipino American. Through an oral history project, I all the black and white and faded color De Sai: Don’t let anyone tell you of my job is knowing that I am making discovered that my great granduncle, Dr. Macario Bautista was the first photographs in our family albums who you are or who you aren’t. A lot a positive impact on others, whether Filipino doctor in Central Valley California and a farm labor leader. His came to life and I was able to meet of times, people like to quantify or it be students or colleagues. It’s also life of struggle, perseverance, and activism rooted me in my Filipino relatives I had only heard about in compare identity based on some false rewarding to know that I can be seen American identity and gave purpose to my educational work. stories. That trip really inspired me to notion of what a “real” Filipino is or as a positive role model. And like my improve my Tagalog and to really learn isn’t. If you don’t speak Filipino, parents and grandparents before me, As a result of learning about my own ethnic background, I’ve more about the Philippines. Ilokano, Tagalog, Bisaya, etc. that I am pleased knowing that I’m made teaching and researching about Filipino history, culture, and doesn’t make you any less Filipino sacrificing and working hard, so that education the center of my work: a multicultural curriculum entitled Pinoy 6) Who do you consider as your than anyone else. my children can aspire to be whatever Teach, the Smithsonian’s iJeepney, and the Filipino American Education (Filipino/a) role models— people who they want to be. Institute. have influenced you and who you 8) As an educator, do you see a trend Today, I am a professor at the University of Hawai»i at Mânoa’s have become? of our young Filipinos seeking to De Sai: I love working with young College of Education. I am passionate about promoting education that embrace that identity? Have you seen people because they give me hope fosters a strong sense of self-identity, an inclusive education that values Libarios: My most influential a change over the period of time? and keep me young. I may not change all cultures and languages, and a quality education for all children.My Filipino role models have been my the world, but I hope to help create parents and grandparents. It took Libarios: Yes, I’ve definitely seen that spark in the mind of the person work is even more personal now being a mom of two young children. I try maturing though, for me to completely a greater number of Filipinos that does. to impart in them what I advise to all young people: be proud of who you understand all the love and sacrifice embracing their Filipino identity. are, excel at school, and always give back to the community. PAGE 8 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 Tinalak Roster & Bios

Development from Teachers College, Columbia University and a B.A. Global & International Studies and Sociology from University of California at Santa Barbara.

DR. PATRICIA ESPIRITU DR. HANNAH TAVARES AMY SOJOT SHANNON CRISTOBAL DR. ROSELA BALINBIN HALAGAO (Tinalak Co-Chair) Graduate Assistant | Education Ph.D. Student | Educational SANTOS (Tinalak Co-Founder) Associate Professor, Doctorate in Professional Foundations Assistant Professor of Social Associate Professor, Department of Educational Educational Practice Graduate Assistant | Office of Studies & Cohort Coordinator, Department of Curriculum Foundations, College of Ph.D Student | Educational Research Services Institute for Teacher Studies, College of Education, Education, University of Foundations University of Hawai’i at Manoa Education, Elementary University of Hawai’i at Manoa Hawai’i at Manoa Amy Sojot was born on Doctoral Student in Education; Rosela Balinbin Santos is Patricia Espiritu Halagao Hannah received her Oahu and is a PhD student in M.A. American Studies, UH an Assistant Professor and TERESA HODGES is an Associate Professor in Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Educational Foundations. Her Manoa; B.A. English from cohort coordinator working Lecturer | Ethnic Studies the College of Education at the the University of Wisconsin- research examines the University of Hawaii-West with teacher candidates Graduate Assistant | Women’s University of Hawai’i at Manoa. Madison in Educational Policy intersections of art, policy, and Oahu. pursuing a Bachelor’s degree Studies A former elementary teacher, and Curriculum Studies. Born education theory. Amy’s Born and raised on Oahu- in the elementary education Affiliate-TA | Center for her scholarship now focuses on Oahu, she attended present focus considers Kalihi. Research interests licensure program. Born and Teaching Excellence on Filipinos in K-12 education, Waimanalo Elementary, Fern sensations of learning as a include Filipino American raised on the Island of Maui, Ph.D. Student | Educational culturally responsive Elementary, and Kalakaua means to examine identity, representation, Rosela, a former elementary Foundations pedagogy and policy. She Intermediate Schools. She contemporary educational feminist theory, foodways teacher, earned her Doctor of --University of Hawai’i at served on the Hawai’i State teaches and studies assumptions. studies, material cultural & Philosophy (PhD) in Manoa Board of Education (2013– multicultural education, museum studies. Aside from Educational Foundations and Teresa is a Black/Native 2016) and led the adoption of feminist theory, politics of her academic pursuits she Master’s of Education in American/Filipina from two linguistic policies: the Seal education, philosophies of race also coaches Cross-Country & Teaching specializing in K-6 Oxnard, California, having of Biliteracy and and ethnicity, and visual Track & Field at Mid Pacific Elementary Education at the roots in Negros and Cebu, Multilingualism for Equitable culture. Institute. University of Hawai?i at Manoa. Philippines and the Southern Education. She also received her region of the United States. Bachelor?s of Arts in She received her M.A. in Asian Communication Arts with an American Studies (San emphasis in Mass Media Francisco State University) Studies from the University of and her B.A. in Ethnic Studies ELENA CLARIZA San Francisco. In addition to (UC San Diego) and centers Philippine Studies Librarian, her academic accom- her work around Black University of Hawai’i at Manoa plishments, Rosela is an avid Americans, Filipina/o Elena Clariza grew up in outrigger paddler, competing in Americans, and mixed Black and Asians (blasians). the Philippines where she JENNIFER PADUA races across Hawai’i and found her passion for social internationally DR. NIKI LIBARIOS DR. ROBERT BACHINI Instructor & Cohort justice and the environment. (Tinalak Co-Founder) (Tinalak Co-Chair) Coordinator, Institute of She is a lifelong Philippine Director, Office of Student Director of Undergraduate Teacher Education, Studies scholar and currently Academic Services, College Programs, Shidler College of Elementary the Philippine Studies of Education, University of Business, University of Jennifer Padua is an Librarian at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa Hawaii at Manoa Instructor and Cohort Hawai’i at Manoa (UHM). She Niki Libarios is the Director of Robert is a first Coordinator in the Institute of was engaged in community the Office of Student Academic generation college student. His Teacher Education, organizing for immigrant rights Services in the College of father is from Camiling, Tarlac Elementary Program in the and environmental justice in Education at the University of and immigrated to California at College of Education at the RAJU DESAI California before coming to University of Hawai`i at Manoa. Hawai‘i at Manoa. A former the age of 18. He previously IVEE CRUZ Instructor | Indo-Pacific Hawai’i to learn about non- She holds a Master's Degree academic advisor, community served as a Vice Principal, College & Career Counselor, Languages & Literature violence education and organic in Curriculum Studies and is college counselor, and Counselor, and Basketball Global Leadership Instructor (Filipino Program) farming. Elena has an currently a Doctoral elementary school teacher, Coach in the Windward School University Laboratory School Graduate Assistant | Special educational background in Candidate. Born on the island Niki’s research interest District. Ph.D. Student in Education - Education Department Biology and Environmental of Oahu, her professional centers on Filipinos in higher Earned a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction Ph.D. Student | Curriculum and Studies (B.A.), Asian Studies experiences include working education with a focus on Education Administration at Ivee Cruz was born in Instruction (M.A.) and Library and as a classroom, Title I, and recruitment, persistence, and UH Manoa; a M.S. in Marikina, Philippines with Lecturer | Philippine Studies, Information Science (MLISc). complex resource teacher, transfer. Niki earned a PhD in Counseling at Cal State Los family roots from Mindanao and City College of San Francisco mentoring pre-service Education with a Angeles; and a B.A. in Luzon. She is currently a Raju Desai is an Indipino teachers, and providing Specialization in Educational Psychology from Chaminade Doctoral Student in Education born and raised in San professional development for Administration, MS in University. His research at the University of Hawai’i at Francisco, CA. He is currently in-service teachers in Hawai`i Counseling Psychology, BEd interests include the retention Manoa. Ivee has a M.A. in a doctoral student in the and the US Affiliated Pacific in Elementary Education, and and persistence of International Education College of Education at the AA in Liberal Arts. underrepresented students. Islands. University of Hawai’i at Manoa. THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 9

He received his M.A. and B.A. of Hawai’i at Manoa. Her and raised on O‘ahu, Hawai‘i, in Asian American Studies research broadly considers he savors life on his home from San Francisco State how communities of color, island with his wife and two University and has over 8 especially Indigenous peoples, sons. years of experience teaching define postsecondary success Ethnic Studies and Philippine for themselves and how Studies from grades 6 through institutions of higher education college. His research interests can better serve students in include Philippine/Filipina/o pursuit of these forms of American Studies, Ethnic success. Her previous work RACHEL QUINAJON DR. JEFF MONIZ GERI SALVADOR Studies, Youth Participatory experiences have been in Student Support | KOKUA Vice Chancellor & Professor Geri is the Secretary to Action Research, Critical college academic and peer Program Academic Affairs, University of the Director, College of Pedagogy, Critical Mixed Race advising, cultural community Ph.D. Student | Educational Hawai‘i - West O‘ahu Education, Office of Student Studies, and Filipino center programming, Administration in Higher Jeffrey Moniz is the Vice Academic Services, DEBRA ARELLANO Language. admissions, and residential Education Chancellor for Academic University of Hawaii at Manoa. Ph.D. Student | Educational life. Graduate Assistant | Ethnic Affairs at the University of Born on Oahu and raised in Foundations Studies Hawai‘i - West O‘ahu. A Kalihi, Geri Salvador is a first Graduate Assistant | Rachel Quinajon is a former schoolteacher and, generation Filipina college Educational Foundations doctoral student in the College later, professor of education at student and is a proud graduate B.A. Political Science & Ethnic of Education at the University the University of Hawai‘i at of Farrington High School. Studies, UH Manoa; M.A. of Hawai`i at Manoa. Rachel Manoa, he is now the chief Geri earned her AS in Public Anthropology, American has a M.S.W. from the Myron academic officer at UH West Administration of Justice from University B. Thompson School of Social O‘ahu. Jeff earned a Bachelor Honolulu Community College Born and raised on Maui. Work at the University of of Arts in history and a Master and a BA in Public Instructed and advised first Hawai`i at Manoa and a B.A. of Arts in Teaching from Beloit Administration from UH West CHANTELLE AWANA generation and Filipino high DR. LORIE TONGCO in both Psychology and College in Wisconsin. He also Oahu. She is currently a Instructor, Special Education school and college youth at UH BALDOS Philosophy from the University earned Master of Arts and Masters Candidate in the Department Maui College. Interests include Graduate Assistant | Hawaii P- of Hawai`i at Hilo. She works Doctor of Philosophy degrees Educational Administration Chantelle de Jesus Ilokano studies, Ilokano/a 20 Partnerships for Education in Student Affairs at the in education from the program at UH Manoa focusing Awana is an Instructor with the identity and consciousness, M.S. Student | Educational KOKUA Program, which University of California, Santa her studies on the College of Education, Special critical race feminism, and Psycholgy provides accommodations for Barbara. He has taught and underrepresentation of Education Department at the Filipino/a-American studies. Lorie is a scientist and students with disabilities. Her written about matters of race, Filipinos in post-secondary University of Hawai`i at Manoa. educator with a passion for the research interests include ethnicity and culture and education. She holds a Master's Degree environment and connecting Filipinxs in higher education, espouses a pedagogy in Special Education from the children with nature. She is gender violence, and Title IX. grounded in multiplicity. Born University of Hawai`i at Manoa. currently pursuing a masters Her experience in education degree in educational includes years of service to the psychology and is connected Department of Education as an with Scholaris Learning and inclusion coach, resource Development Center, a teacher, and as a classroom preschool and homeschool teacher. Chantelle's parents, center in Palawan, David and Tess deJesus, Philippines, as its Curriculum migrated to Hawai`i from the Development Head. Philippines at a very young She holds a Ph.D. in age and are active in the Botany from the University of Filipino community. Hawaii, and M.S. and B.S. degrees in Biology from the University of the Philippines.

DR. NICOLE ALIA SALIS REYES Assistant Professor, DR. JEFFREY TANGONAN Educational Administration ACIDO Nicole Alia Salis Reyes Lecturer, Ilokano Language and is an Assistant Professor of Literature Program-UHM Higher Education in the Ph.D. in Education, MA in Department of Educational Theology. Research interests Administration in the College in Nakem Pedagogy and of Education at the University Community LIberatory Praxis PAGE 10 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017

By BRANDON ELEFANTE Council Member City and County of Honolulu

Councilmember Elefante welcomes interns Kylie Urasaki and Annelle Martin- I am honored to continue to Ortega. serve the communities of Aiea, Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed Bill 69, CD-1 (2015) to create a one day bus pass at Pearl City, and Waipahu as their the Waipahu Transit Center. Councilmember Elefante, who introduced this bill, area Councilmember in Council offered remarks and was joined by: (left to right in first row) Roger Morton, District 8. February Highlights President of Oahu Transit Services (OTS); Jon Nouchi, Deputy Director of the Department of Transit Services (DTS) ; Mark Kikuchi, Acting Director of DTS, the Mayor, and other employees of OTS and DTS. New Interns work with a total of seven different discussing current issues that come One of the things I most enjoy interns, ranging from high school to before the Honolulu City Council. about being a Councilmember is college. meeting new people. Whether it’s We welcome three interns from Waipio Neighborhood Park at a City park, a project at a school Aiea High School who are Update in my district, or at the City Council volunteering their time in the office In the Fiscal Year 2016 Capital meetings, I always look forward to for their third quarter of their junior Improvement Program (CIP) budget, meeting constituents and making year. Our three interns are: Kylie I requested funds to convert the connections. I am always inspired Urasaki, Annelle Martin-Ortega, existing tennis courts at Waipio by our students, our youth, and our and Eli Muse. They are right in the Neighborhood Park to basketball/ next generation of leaders. Since I mix of things by writing memos, pickleball/volleyball courts. The took office, I have been honored to evaluating legislation, and community had long requested this

Councilmember Elefante welcomes intern Eli Muse. conversion since the tennis courts be able to play their favorite sport were underutilized after the opening at the new courts of Waipio of the tennis center at the nearby Neighborhood Park! Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu I look forward to continue Regional Park. working with my colleagues, I am happy to announce that constituents, and community! after working with the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Department of Design and Brandon Elefante represents Honolulu Construction to expedite this project City Council District VIII, which covers for the community, it is going out to ‘Aiea - Pearl City - Waipahu. He can be bid for construction in the first half reached at (808) 768-5008, and his email of this year. Soon, more people will is [email protected]. THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 11

By CHARMAINE MANANSALA

The days leading to my dad’s death were sad, confusing and chaotic. Adding to our grief was the stress of poor family communication brought on by lack of planning, indecision and our Filipino culture. We HOW WE DIE IN HAWAII – just don’t talk about death before it smacks us in the face. My father had not made his end- of-life wishes known, and my mother hadn’t pressed him. She wanted to include all family members in decisions, but no one felt comfortable Let’s Talk about It offering an opinion. After dad’s oncologist told us that “no other treatment will help,” he died ten days jurisdictions have authorized the Whether or not you or your loved I hope you will join me in ABOUT THE AUTHOR: later. option, resulting in a combined 30 ones become terminally ill and might expressing yourself: expressing your Charmaine Manansala is political Sound familiar? This scenario years of closely monitored practice ever need to consider a medical aid in support for medical aid in dying to your director for Compassion & Choices, plays out in hospitals and homes without a single documented case of dying option, the Hawaii Death with lawmakers as they consider the Hawaii the nation’s leading advocacy across the nation every day. abuse. Dignity Act (SB1129) is making more Death with Dignity Act, and talking with organization working to improve care Thankfully, right now in Hawaii, The most recent poll of Hawaii people aware of the full spectrum of your family, early and often, about end- and expand choice for the end of life. there is a bill moving through the voters in December 2016 shows a end of life options, while at the same of-life wishes. legislature that would authorize supermajority 80 percent in favor of time expanding that range of options. medical aid in dying for the Aloha the option across all demographics, That’s good for everyone. State. And it’s getting people talking including ethnicity, age, economic about this most important stage of life. status and religion. This is especially relevant for What is Medical Aid in Dying? Filipinos. While all of us have death in Filipinos in Hawaii our future, Asian Americans and overwhelmingly support medical aid Pacific Islanders contract serious in dying. This is the end-of-life medical diseases that have protracted dying practice in which a terminally ill, processes at a much higher rate than mentally capable individual who has other groups. The facts are sobering. a prognosis of six months or less to Filipinos suffer disproportionately live requests, obtains and—if his or from certain cancers, tuberculosis and her suffering becomes unbearable— Hepatitis B. self-administers medication that Our instinct may be to avoid brings about a peaceful death. talking about death. I now know from Here in Hawaii we have been our family’s experience with my dad’s striving for access to medical aid in passing that not talking about death dying for more than 20 years, exacerbates the horrible way we feel beginning with Governor Ben as it begins its mission to steal our Cayetano’s Blue Ribbon Panel on loved ones. But talking about it Living and Dying with Dignity in 1996. reduces death’s power to surprise, Since then, seven U.S. states and disrupt and terrify.

Mary and Charmaine with House Speaker Souki PAGE 12 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017

Left to right: Candace Asam-Lopez, Al Waterson and Jerri Raiatea Helm and Nathan Aweau Left to right: Jerel, Darah Dung (Model), Kyle and BJ Sabate Chong (Ronald McDonald House Charities of Hawaii) at a Butigroove photo shoot 11 a.m. til 2 p.m. There will be non- Synergy Show Systems, Inc. anniversary. This family-owned stop entertainment including a special (Jarmil Maupin – Owner/Producer) business lead by BJ Sabate has been By NANCY BERNAL performance by Hawaii’s fastest presented the inaugural Stage of specializing in women’s and men’s juggler – Greg Gabaylo with Al Stories concert featuring Raiatea clothing with unique designs for three Waterson as Emcee and activities Helm, Nathan Aweau and Halau Na decades and continues to create t- for all ages. Admission is free and Mamo O Pu’uanahulu at The Hawaii shirts, tank tops, hats and much more. open to the public. Congratulations Convention Center on January 29. Check out their Butigroove – HiLife to Jerri Chong (President) and This Hawaiian Concert was inspiring Store located at 1311 Kapiolani Blvd., Candace Asam-Lopez (Director of as it provided a beautiful and Honolulu and celebrate their success. Development) on making The Ronald memorable evening of music from • • • • McDonald House a “home away from some of Hawaii’s top entertainers. For now, That’s Entertainment! home”. Watch for more concerts in the (If you would like to submit • • • • upcoming months from Synergy Show entertainment information, please Apaulo Music Productions Systems, Inc. and visit contact Nancy Bernal at 947-5736 or (Michael Paulo) presented another www.synergyshowsystems.com for e-mail her at [email protected]) fantastic smooth jazz concert at The more information. Hawaii Convention Center on • • • • February 4 featuring Saxman - Euge Maui Brewing Company opened Left to right: Michael Paulo, Euge Groove and Tracy Carter Groove and Pianist – Tracy Carter. their newly renovated restaurant at Michael Paulo joined them onstage The Waikiki Beachcomber Resort The Ronald McDonald House throughout the islands this year to as the headlining musicians had the located at 2300 Kalakaua Avenue in Charities of Hawaii is celebrating bring awareness to the wonderful audience dancing in their seats during January. It is a beautiful and spacious thirty years of service on Oahu to assistance they offer to families in this high-energy show. It was a venue featuring live entertainment families with seriously ill children. need. Their kick-off event will be at musical celebration! seven nights a week. This is their They will be presenting events Kahala Mall on Monday, March 27 at • • • • second location in Hawaii; the first location is in Lahaina, Maui. Validated parking is available at the valet area. • • • • Congratulations to Butigroove Clothing Store on their thirty year Greg Gabaylo

For Advertising information, please call 595.8787 THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 13

I do, take two By RADIANT CORDERO

Renewing wedding vows can be The Fil-Am Courier Community Host Amelia Casamina Cabatu their partner was "the one," and lastly Kop as the Bridesmaids/Maid of a meaningful, touching, revivifying Hour on KNDI February 2017 show orchestrated an exceptional - but importantly - tips for a healthy, Honors. ceremony. It is a time for a married not only provided an intimate space opportunity for Hermie and Letty happy, and lasting relationship. The reaffirmation of vows at the couple to pause and reflect on where for not just one, nor two, but four Tesoro, Larry and Jeniffer Ordonez, To close off the radio show, Fil-Am Courier Community Hour they have been and where they are couples total to do just that on Sunday, Edgar and Elsa Talavera, and Gerhart Reverend Alex Vergara officiated the brought together a celebration that going and to redefine and fortify their February 12, 2017 through the tri- and Nancy Walch to express, again, vow renewal ceremony with Maggie was not just monumental for the show, love for one another. media outlets of radio, social media, their commitment to one another. Domingo serving as the ninang, Sol newspaper, and radio station, but was Wedding vow renewal and print media. Each couple was interviewed Solleza as the Flower Girl, and Espie a unique and memorable moment for ceremonies can be as creative and about they met, their courtship and Badua, Mary Cordero, and Vanessa the four couples who said, “I do,” take personal as you want them to be. engagement stories, how they knew two.

Host: Amelia Casamina Cabatu

Tech Staff: Charmaine Padilla Radiant Cordero

Couples are: Hermie & Letty Tesoro Larry & Jeniffer Salazar Ordonez Gerhart & Nancy Walch Edgar & Elsa Talavera

Officiating Reverend Alex Vergara

Ninang: Maggie Domingo

Bridesmaids/Maids of Honor Mary Cordero Vanessa Kop Espie Badua

Flower girl Sol Solleza

Special thanks to: Sunrise Leis & Flower Val & Edith Doctolero

American Marketing Chair Covers Panga & Bing Torres PAGE 14 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 IN MEMORIAM

By BENNETTE ESPINELI MISALUCHA

It was easy to like the man. Humble, low-key and personable, Mario Ramil quietly disarmed you with his gentle ways. He had a charming face that seemed The Ramil siblings with their mother Fausta, left clockwise: Norma Matro, Michael, Quintin, Lindo, Mario, Cesar, Gloria Omania. almost about to break into an impish smile any time. Never boisterous, nevertheless, he relished a good joke.He did not always like the limelight, but he loved people. In fact, SUPREME COURT he blended so well with others from all walks of life, they often forgot who ASSOCIATE JUSTICE he was, and the great strides he had made. Ramil passed away on January MARIO RAMIL 30, 2017 of cancer, surrounded by his loving family. He was 70 years old. Ramil left behind an impressive The Gentleman legacy of service and was beloved by the local Filipino-American community. The second Filipino Judy and Mario Ramil: married for 44 years Jurist American appointed to serve as an Associate Supreme Court Justice, Ramil also served as Hawaii State Born in Quezon City, Philippines parents believed the U.S. offered Norma added: “He was always a defining moment in his life. Insurance Commissioner and State on June 21, 1946, Ramil was the third better opportunities for the children. resourceful and when he wanted Apparently, Mario was caught pilfering Director of Labor. child of seven children. Relatives say But it proved to be the one single something, he persisted until he a small item from the neighborhood But if you ask his wife of 44 he was an adventurous child, and at decision that pushed the family to achieved the goal. For example, when grocery store. His sister, Norma years, Judy, how Ramil would like to seven or eight years old, he would experience difficult times and one the four boys in the family wanted recalled that she disciplined him, had be remembered, she was often go with his brother Lindo to the which likely shaped Ramil’s values bicycles, Mario built four bicycles him return the item, apologize to the unequivocal: “He was a simple man. mountains in Novaliches and stay and judicial temperament. from scrap parts he salvaged store owner and made him sweep the No grand airs. He just wanted people there until dark, usually hiking and Norma Matro, Mario’s older somewhere.” floor at the store. “I must have put the to remember that he was for the little exploring. sister who acted like his second mom, Judy also said that Ramil often fear of God in him, so much so that guy. He was never in this for himself. At the age of 10, his family moved shared the family’s humble talked about how poor they were: “He after that incident, he said he could He was always fair. Whatever he did, to the United States because his beginnings: “My father was a lawyer said their family got their clothes from not even bear to have an overdue he did it with integrity.” in the Philippines and owned Salvation Army, and in school he library book in his life!” businesses. But when we came to would get teased by students, who Judy validated Norma’s version the U.S., he could not find a job. And claimed that was their old clothes he of this story and attributes Ramil’s going back to the Philippines was not was wearing. So now you can see integrity to the home grown family an option so my dad had to do why he always wanted to stand up for values that he was raised on. “His whatever it took to feed the family. My the little guy.” Ate Norma supposedly pulled his dad and my older brother ended up When the family moved from ear—Philippine style of discipline, I working in California’s agricultural Vallejo to live in a house in Stockton, guess—whenever he was naughty fields. They would pick the apricots they were the first non-white family to and he learned those valuable in Vallejo and the children in our family live in their neighborhood. Their all lessons that way,” Judy explained. would sell the fruits in baskets.” white neighbors passed around a Judy and Mario met in college in “We all pitched in to help. I petition banning the family from Hayward, California when they were remember Mario and Lindo had a moving in. “But the petition did not go both enrolled in a geology class. “I newspaper route to help augment the anywhere, and in the end, the person thought he looked cool, handsome. His family’s income. The newspaper who started the petition actually ended opening line to me was, ‘Can I look at offered incentives to those that did up being good friends with my your rocks?’, and we both laughed well, and usually, the workers would mom,”Norma related. about it afterwards.” The relationship exchange the incentive points for toys One incident stood out in Ramil’s developed and the happy couple got or gadgets. Mario chose to use his childhood – and both his wife Judy married after dating for a couple of points for paper plates and paper Mario and Judy with their sons Jonathan and Bradley during their "roots" trip in and his sister Norma referred to it as years. 2015. goods for the family.” THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 15

Ramil as an Associate Justice of the Hawaii Supreme Court. Mario on a golf outing with his friends, including one of his best friends, Robin Campaniano (standing behind Mario)

Was he romantic? Judy laughed about his health, and he insisted on community in Hawai`i mourns his when she responded, “He was, but taking the 2 ½ week trip to places like passing as they would a favorite son. only when we were by ourselves. He Palawan, Makati and Manila.(Ramil In the end, Ramil's claim to was very discreet. Like everything in was diagnosed shortly after that trip). greatness was not just the high offices his life, he was low-key. We were both It was the first visit for the boys and he held, and there are many, but in the Memories... private people.” they both left with a better appreciation courage manifested as he fought for By ROBIN CAMPANIANO After college, Ramil proceeded of the country and the culture. the little guy, the wisdom he shared Mario was one of 4 Filipino Deputy Attorneys to law school at University of “Mario was very proud of his with those starting with their career General appointed by Attorney General Ron Amemiya California, Hastings College of Law culture, of being Filipino.He thought it journey, and the humanity he in the fall of 1976. He was assigned to the and after graduation, decided to was important to give back to the displayed as a son, a brother, a Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Abelina venture to Hawai‘i. community. He served on the board husband, a father, a friend. Madrid Shaw was assigned to the Department of He was introduced to then State of the Filcom Center and was always Safe passage home, Mario. Health, Chris Pablo to the Department of Taxation, Attorney General Ron Amemiya who ready to volunteer for the Filipino Paalam. and Robin Campaniano to the Department of hired him on the spot to be an community. He had been through so • • • Education and the University of Hawaii. Assistant AG. Judy recalled that their much and he was grateful for the Ramil’s life will be celebrated at After Easter Brunch at his home in 1984, Mario plan was to give Hawai‘i a try for five opportunities that were given to him. a gathering on Friday, March 3, 2017 and I put his son and my daughter in a wagon and years and then return to the Mainland. But he never forgot where he came at Hosoi Garden Mortuary. Family walked around his neighborhood in Waipio Gentry. I But as Ramil received important from,” Judy added. greeting will start at 5 p.m. and mentioned to him that Governor Ariyoshi had appointments to key positions over a Those experiences likely made services at 6 p.m. A private inurnment nominated me to the Board of Regents for the period of time, that plan had to be re- Ramil passionate about mentoring the ceremony will be held at a later time University of Hawaii that week. He was excited, and evaluated. Today, Judy said that she next generation. Many of his law to place his ashes at the National then told me that the Governor had just appointed would never dream of leaving Hawai‘i. clerks at the Hawai‘i Supreme Court Cemetery of the Pacific, Punchbowl him as Insurance Commissioner. I recall telling my “This is home, and Mario now being could attest to the time he often took Crater. wife on the way home that I was glad that I got my interred at Punchbowl makes it even to share his personal insights and He is survived by his wife Judy; appointment, but was concerned about Mario’s…after more so.” guidance. sons Jonathan and Bradley, brothers all, who would want to be Insurance Commissioner? One of the young attorneys who “He helped these young people Quintin Ramil, Jr., (Teresita), Lindo But a few years later, Mario was appointed Director served with Ramil at the AG’s office get their start because he felt he too Ramil (Filipina), Cesar Ramil (Anita), of Labor, and I took over Mario’s job as Commissioner. during the 70’s, was Randy Iwase, was blessed in his life. He was not and Michael Ramil, and sisters Norma Mario was active in sports and played on the who today serves as Public Utilities just involved in their legal careers; Matro (Carlos) and Gloria Omania Attorney General’s flag football team in the Attorney Commissioner.( Please see inset of he became a part of their lives. He (Louis). League, and joined Chris in playing on Robin’s Hoods, the AG’s office scrub team. He also joined the other memories shared by Ramil’s good took pride in their achievements and In lieu of flowers and gifts, the deputies in tennis, golf and basketball gatherings. friend, Robin Campaniano). they became like family to him,” Judy family requests donations be made Golf, however was his enduring passion. He traveled Their friendship spanned for forty said. to: University of Hawai‘i Cancer to California and Arizona, as well as to Scotland, years, and during the last few years, Ramil’s appointment as Center (indicate funds In Memory of Ireland and the Philippines to play golf. He scored 2 Ramil and Iwase usually golfed at Associate Supreme Court Justice Mario Ramil) to: UH Foundation, P.O. holes in one, the latest in competition with PUC least once a week. “I was with him was the pinnacle of his career, Box 11270, Honolulu, HI 96828 Chairman Randy Iwase, with whom Mario would when he had his second hole-in-one!” serving from 1993 to 2002. The Oncology Nursing Society (c/o engage in weekly friendly, but intense golf matches. he declared. “He was devoted to his Filipino community in Hawai’i basked Sharon Shigemasu, 701 ILALO St. It seemed like Mario was always cheerful and wife and cherished his sons. I know in that shared glory. Judy said Honolulu, HI 96813) Hawai‘i Nurses upbeat. Often laughing and smiling, his cheerful that it was important to him that he Ramil’s biggest regret was that his Association (949 Kapiolani Blvd. demeanor masked a strong and steady intellect. passed on a good name to his sons.” father was not around to see him #107, Honolulu, HI 96814) Coupled with his humble beginnings and humble and Mario and Judy’s sons are achieve this honor.”He told me, I hope hardworking life experiences, Mario was winded a Jonathan and Bradley, and it is clear my Dad’s proud of the man I have Bennette Espineli Misalucha is good representative on the Supreme Court. to everyone how close they are to their become.” the Managing Editor of the Fil-am In the last few months, we would talk on the phone parents. One of the high points in the Actually, it is not just Ramil's Courier, a position she has held about our lives, and how they delightfully intertwined family history was a “roots” trip to the family who have expressed pride in since 2013. She has been since the first time we met. He bore his fate with Philippines two years ago. Judy said the legacy he left behind. The Filipino affiliated with the paper for 29 dignity and was an inspiration to me until the end. I Ramil seemed to have a premonition years. miss him and will never forget him. PAGE 16 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017

By ANGIE DYTIOCO SANTIAGO Members of Lei Hulu (featherwork) of Hilo, founded by Kumu Doreen Henderson, The replica of Lili’uokalani’s black ribbon gown displayed in the Blue Room, in front of a assisted in making the peacock feather gown. Over 50,000 feathers were portrait of her in the same outfit. Pictured: Pepi Nieva, Iris Viacrusis, Virgie Chattergy, trimmed and bundled before they were hand-sewn, and took 400 hours and Rhoda Alvarez, Rose Churma, Evelyn Llena, and Roberta Sullivan. almost 1-1/2 years to make. Pictured: Sheile Hayashida, Gay Covington, Naomi Hagura, Iris Viacrusis, and Sean Spellicy. Hawaiian Ali’i Gowns Recreated by Historic

Iolani Palace offered a performances in the Blue The gowns were rare series of evening tours Room, the Throne Room, and recreated by Hawaii Island- to the public on December 28 in the Upper Hall, as well as based historic dress designer and 29, 2016, in live entertainment outside. Iris Viacrusis. Iris was commemoration of Queen Guests were also allowed to commissioned by the Alii Kapi’olani’s 182nd birthday. take the famous koa staircase Gown Reproduction Project The tours gave guests an to the second floor to view the to create anew the four gowns opportunity to experience the displays; and gowns worn by now displayed permanently at palace as it was during the Queen Kapi’olani and Queen Iolani Palace, once the 19th century, with live Lili’uokalani. ceremonial home of both The replica of the ostrich-feather-and-lilac gown is the second piece in the Friends of Iolani Palace's Alii Gown Reproduction and is believed to be the last gown commissioned by the queen as sovereign of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Miss Hawaii 1984 Debbie Nakanelua-Richards wearing a replica of Queen Kapiolani's lei hulu (feather lei) gown, greeted and welcomed guests during the tours' opening night. THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 17

The Filipino Association of University Women (FAUW) hosted a Mahalo Luncheon for the Lei Hulu of Hilo. Solita Dytioco, Bey Lontoc, FAUW President Rhoda Alvarez, Iris Viacrusis, Ethel Alikpala Pictured: FAUW President Rhoda Alvarez, Melga Gendrano, Apolina Stice, Roberta Sullivan, Ethel Alikpala Ward, Ward, and Apolina Stice attended the special VIP evening tour at Iolani Palace. Bey Lontoc, Evelyn Llena, Rose Churma, and Iris Viacrusis. on Display at Iolani Palace -- Dress Designer Iris Viacrusis

Kapi’olani and Lili’uoklani. Iris Hawaii's First Lady has been commissioned to do Dawn Ige presented a three more gowns plus two Certificate of Appreciation to First regalia suits for the king’s Merry Monarch Queen wardrobe. Iris studied Doreen Henderson for Edwardian and Victorian her cultural contribution fashion in Paris and recreated who has dedicated her historic costumes for the life to the preservation and perpetuation of Merrie Monarch court. Hawaiian featherwork.

Angie Dytioco Santiago, our Gathering Place columnist, is a U.H. Manoa graduate. Angie is currently a Governor of the United Filipino Council of Hawaii (UFCH), the Recording Secretary of the Bulacan Circle & Associates of Hawaii (BCAH), and the Assistant Treasurer for the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH). She served as an Assistant Auditor for the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) from 2015-2016, as 1st Vice President of the Oahu Filipino Community Council (OFCC) from 2013 to 2014, and as BCAH President from 2010 to 2012. She is the daughter of Angel &RubingDytioco and is married with two sons. She The original peacock gown was worn by Queen Kapi'olani in 1887 to Queen Victoria’s enjoys photography and participating in cultural and social activities and jubilee celebration in London. events.

All 2,000 tickets were sold for these special Iolani Palace's tours. PAGE 18 • THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 Community

By STU GLAUBERMAN Mourns Death of Filipino Culture Advocate

Senator Donna Mercado Kim Senator Lorraine Inouye

SENATORS KIM AND INOUYE Joy labez Joy labez dancing hula at a concert at the National APPOINTED TO LEADERSHIP Museum of the American Indian last May. Family and friends of Luisa Joy G. Labez will celebrate her remarkable life on Saturday, March 11, 2017, at Koolau Ballrooms, POSITION FOR NATIONAL beginning at 10 a.m. She died in Arlington, Virginia, on January 22, 2017, after battling cancer for four years with strength and determination typical of her character. She was 62 when she left behind ORGANIZATION a lifetime of public service, hula, Filipino dance, and everlasting friendships. Senator Donna Mercado integral role in the launch distinguished organization,” Born in Manila, Philippines, on September, 26, 1954, Joy came to Kim (Dist. 14 - Kapalama, and maintenance of shared said Sen. Inouye. “The Hawaii at age 15. A 1971 graduate of McKinley High School, she ‘Alewa, Kalihi Valley, Ft. legislation. greatest rising force in earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from the University Shafter, Moanalua Gardens “It’s an honor to be politics is not a political of Hawaii and a Master of Public Administration from San Francisco & Valley, portions of Halawa asked to serve on the Policy party, but women. I know State University. and ‘Aiea) was recently Committee,” said Sen. Kim, that there is much that can She worked for the state Department of Transportation, and for 10 appointed to serve on the who has been a member of be accomplished to help our years as Senior Planner with the state Judiciary’s Office of the 2017 Policy Committee for NFWL since 2015. “This year state and our country by Administrative Director of the Courts. National Foundation for more than ever, there are working together as elected In 1991 she moved to the Mainland to join the U.S. Government Women Legislators (NFWL). timely, pressing issues women.” Accountability Office. In a career that spanned 26 years, she began As a member of the facing our communities. “We are so honored as an evaluator and rose to Assistant Director of International and Policy Committee, Sen. Kim Hawai‘i is not alone in many Senators Kim and Inouye Trade team, traveling the world to evaluate the effectiveness of U.S. will contribute to all of these problem areas such have accepted leadership food assistance programs. She received GAO’s Meritorious Service committee business by as homelessness, the positions in our foundation,” Award in 2007 and 2014. developing education policy economy, and education. shared Minnesota State The passion and dedication she brought to her professional career programs on policy issues, Being on this Committee Senator Carrie Ruud, was surpassed by the devotion she lavished on her friendships and engaging with policy allows me to collaborate with NFWL’s 2017 Chair. “They love of hula and Filipino culture. partners, and other women legislators will play a crucial role in the Joy was known as Hau’oli and was renowned as lead hula teacher recommending which areas across the country and find continued success of NFWL, and dancer for Halau Ho’omau I ka Wai Ola O Hawai’i since its founding of policy the Foundation creative solutions.” as we embark on our most in 2000. She performed at Wolf Trap, the Smithsonian Museum of the shall focus on. The Senator Lorraine Inouye exciting year yet.” American Indian and at many cultural festivals in the Washington, Committee will focus on (Dist. 4 - Hilo, Hamakua, Sens. Kim and Inouye D.C. area. She also performed with Halau Hula Mahina O Wakinekona shared legislation by Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa, begin serving in their new DC. encouraging elected women Kona) was recently positions immediately, and She began the study of hula in 1971 under the tutelage of Kumu to exchange legislative appointed to serve as the will hold this office through Hula Lovey Apana. She believed that dance is “a window to one's ideas. 2017 State Director for the the end of 2017. soul, and that the study of hula allows one to lift the hearts of all those This is a new emphasis NFWL. that learn and share it with others to enjoy.” for NFWL and the Policy “I’m proud to serve as Her hula sister said: “The joy and grace and beauty she brought About the National to her hula made it seem as if every song was composed just for her. Committee will play an the State Director for this Foundation for Women Hau’oli touched so many lives and hearts, introduced new friends, Legislators, Inc. (NFWL) reunited old friends and invited everyone into her circle of love. More Through annual educational than anything she taught us by her joyful example.” and networking events, the While a college student on Kauai she danced professionally at National Foundation for Women Paradise Pacifica. During her years in Honolulu, she was a lead Legislators supports elected women performer with Pamana Dancers, a celebrated Filipino cultural troupe from all levels of governance. As directed by Hana G. Trinidad, and Sulyap Philippine Dance Company a non-profit, non-partisan with her brother, Zach Labez. organization, NFWL does not take She was a member of the University of Hawaii Alumni Association. ideological positions on public She is survived by sisters Alma Elmer, Faith Labez, Pat Labez policy issues, but rather serves as Muntz, brother Hipolito Labez, and loving nephews and nieces. a forum for women legislators to Following the celebration of life on March 11, her ashes will be be empowered through information buried at Hawaiian Memorial Park Cemetery beside her beloved brother and experience.www.women Zachary G. Labez, a former city deputy director and community activist legislators.org who died in January 2003. THE FIL-AM COURIER • MARCH 1-15, 2017 • PAGE 19 CLASSIFIED ADS

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