june 16 2016 issue

• THE FIL-AM COURIER • jUnE 16-30, 2016

Jun Colmenares 838-9775, Mario Palma 397-8626

June 25, 2016Oahu Fi l ipino Community Counc i l (OFCC) Annua l Convention Philippine Consulate General of Honolulu Lanai. Contact Persons: Alex Vergara President 551-4303, Dwayne Bueno 266-0392

June 25, 2016Miss Maharlika USA 2016 Pageant presented by the Filipino American Maharlika Association (FAMAS) Hilton Hawaiian Village Resorts Tapa Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Contact Person: Romeo Garcia 368-2312

July 7, 2016Philippine Nurses Association of America Foundation & Philippine Nurses Association of Hawaii Conference. Hale Koa Hotel, DeRussy Hall; Registration 7:30 AM; Topic of discussion: N ove l A p p r o a c h e s a n d Multidisciplinary Management o f Cance r. Con t i nu ing Education Credits of 6.5 hours will be given. Contact Persons: [email protected] or Natalie-natztheflip@ gmail.com

July 16, 2016Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii and Foundation 62nd Anniversary & Annual Installation Banquet Hilton Hawaiian Village Resorts, Tapa Ballroom. 6:00 PM; Attire: Formal Contact Persons Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090, Sam Acosta 306-1428, Marivic Dar 342-8879 or www.filipinochamber.org

July 16, 2016Mr. Pinoy Hawaii USA 2016 p re sen ted by Ka l ayaan Philippines International, Pacific Beach Hotel Grand Ballroom. 5:00 PM - 11:30 PM; Contact Persons: Calvin Bagaoisan (Interim President) 286-4334, Ben Pulido (Executive and Program Director) 421-9747

July 16, 2016Santanians Association of Hawaii-USA Installation of Officers & Board of Directors Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom. 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM; Contact Persons: Dr. Julius Soria 722-9958, Amy Quides255-6380, Aurora Garcia 722-3150 or email santanian [email protected]

July 20-24, 201637 th Ph i l i pp i ne Nu r se s Association of America (PNAA)

May 26- June 30, 2016KKK Festival (Kalayaan, Kultura, Kulinarya) A month of Filipino Pride In commemo-ration of the 118th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence presented by the Philippine Celebrations Coord inat ing Commit tee (PCCCH) in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu. See the calendar for details. For more information call Contact Persons: Allan Alvarez 808-392-8230, Amelia Casamina Cabatu 808-282-2033, Angie Santiago 808-542-1418

May 26- June 30, 2016“Independence” Art Exhibit presented in cooperation with the Asia Pacific Arts Consortium John C. Lane Gallery Honolulu Hale 530 S. King Street Honolulu HI. 10:00 AM-4:00 PM. The exhibit will feature works of Filipino American & other Artists. Exhibit is part of the KKK Festival (Kalayaan, Kultura, Kulinarya)

June 16, 2016“Independence” Art Show, Best in Show Presentation and Reception Honolulu Hale Lane Gallery 530 S. King Street Honolulu HI; 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM; In celebration of the KKK Festival (Kalayaan, Kultura, Kulinarya) in cooperation with the Asia Pacific Arts Consortium. Exhibit runs until June 30, 2016 Contact Persons: Allan Alvarez 808-392-8230, Leo Gozar 808-630-6268.

June 18, 2016Oahu Fi l ipino Community Counci l (OFCC) Presents the Miss Oahu Filipina 2016 Pageant. Pacific Beach Hotel. 6:00PM; Contact Persons: Alex Vergara President 551-4303, Leo Gozar 630-6268

June 18-19, 2016R i za l You th Leade r sh i p Institute Student Lounge, Leeward Community College, Pearl City. 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, joint ly organized by the Knights of Rizal-Hawaii Chapter, the Rizalian Youth Council (KAPARIZ), and the Philippine Consulate General, in collaboration with the LCC Philippine Studies Program. Free and open to all youth, 13 to 25 years old. Registration required at www.rizalian ohana.weebly.com; Contact Persons: Raymund Liongson 381-4315,

STATEWIDEcoMMunITy cALEnDAR

compiled by AMELIA cASAMInA cAbATu

National Convention/ Grand Hyatt Hotel, Washington DC; PNA Hawaii Contact Persons: Tina Salvador 426-6183, Ramon Sumibcay 489-7148, Erlinda Ferrer 721-1501

July 30, 2016La Union Circle of Hawaii presents Miss & Mrs. La Union Hawaii USA 2016. Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom. 5:30 PM; Coronation with Dinner. Cost $65.00. Contact Persons: Baybee Hufana Ablan 753-5616; Laurie Ann Tadina 358-0474; Conrad Valdriz 953-8888; Ben Pulido 421-9747; Lolita Domingo 295-1387

August 6, 2016COVO Congress Of Visayan Organization 30th Annual C o n v e n t i o n a n d G a l a . Convention to be held at Philippine Consulate Lanai. 8:00 AM-3:00 PM, Gala: Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom; 6:00 PM-11:00 PM; For more info, please call May Mizuno at 741-4503.

August 13, 2016Philippine Women’s Civic Club (PWCC) Filipiniana Ball; Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom; 6:00 PM; Cost: $65.00. Suggested attire: Maria Clara, Kimona, Terno or Muslim. Join the contest for the Best Filipiniana Costume. Contact Persons: Letty Saban 255-9429, Edna Alikpala 282-3669, Mimi Gozar 312-0778, Edith Gudoy 457-0253

August 14, 2016Ilocos Surian Association of Hawaii (ISAH) 2016-2018. Re-affirmation of Officers at the Honolulu Country Club 1690 Ala Puumalu Street, Honolulu HI from 6:00 PM-11:00 PM Contact Persons: Tessie Aganon 348-3746, Rose Sabangan 677-9487, Maria Etrata 392-2962, Danny Villaruz 778-0233

August 20, 2016UPAA Un ive rs i ty o f the Philippines Alumni Association of Hawaii Installation of Officers Gala; 6:00 PM; Filcom Center 94-428 Mokuo la Street , Waipahu, HI. Contact Persons: Bea Ramos-Razon 808 778-6291, Melody Calisay 808 224-9535, Jenny Normandy 808 286-4426

August 27, 2016Philippine Cultural Foundation of Hawaii Recognition Night honoring the 2016 Parents/parent of the year, recognizing t h e 2 0 1 6 o u t s t a n d i n g achievements of graduating

Amelia Casamina Cabatu is a community leader and a familiar face, often hosting community events and celebrations. She is a veteran radio announcer and guests-hosts on 1270 KNDI Radio. 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 toacmina808 @gmail.com or call her at (808) 282-2033.

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June 16, 2016Gintong Pamana (Golden Heritage) Leadership and Scholarship Awards presented to six outstanding Individuals Maui Beach Hotel. 5:30 PM; Cost: $50.00; If you renew your membership or become a member of the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce by May 15, 2016, they will include you in this year’s membership directory. Contact Person Kit Zulueta, President (808) 291-9407 or email: info@mauifi l ipino chamber.com and visit their website:www.mauifilipino chamber.com

July 29-31, 2016United Filipino Council Of Hawaii (UFCH) Annual Convention to be held on Maui. Place & Time TBD. Contact Persons: Greg Peros on Maui (808) 276-8771; Dwayne Bueno on Oahu (808) 266-0392

July 30, 2016United Filipino Council Of Hawaii (UFCH) Miss Hawaii Filipina 2016 Binhi At Ani Community Center on Maui. Contact Persons: Greg Peros (808) 276-8771, Maria Etrata (808) 392-2962

october 15, 2016Maui Fil-Am Heritage Festival presented by the Maui Filipino Chambe r o f Commer ce Foundat ion Maui Mal l in Kahalui, Maui. 10:00 AM-3:00 PM; Flag raising ceremony at the county building on October 3rd at 10:00 AM. For more information contact Kit Zulueta, President (808) 291-9407 or email: info@maui filipinochamber.com and visit their website: www.maui filipinochamber.com

MAuI

high school valedictorians in public and private schools & presentation of the continuing s cho la r rec i p i en t s , and introducing the 1st Trailblazer Award presented to Mr. Eddie Flores. Empress Restaurant 100 N. Beretania St. 6:00 PM; We are currently searching for the parents/parent of the year who has sacrificed to send their children (3 minimum) to college and/or universities & have attained their professional chosen careers. Contact Persons: Janice Sevilla 595-8000, Lina Longboy 421-7381, Leo Rojas Gozar 630-6268, Edith Gudoy 841-2881, Maggie Domingo 783-0068

August 27, 2016Filipino Nurses of Hawaii (FNOH) 43rd Annual Recognit ion and Awards Banquet Hilton Hawaiian Village Resorts. Coral Ballrooms IV &V; 6:00 PM; Contact Persons: Penny Chung 221-6212, Myra Baided 230-6438, Donalyn Baldeviso 497-6739

September 17, 2016Filipino Women’s Civic Club Annual Maria Clara Ball. Ala Moana Hotel Hibiscus Ballroom; 6:00 PM. Join the Maria Clara Contest Contact Persons: Bernadette Fajardo, President 342-8090, Cecilia Villafuerte 780-4985

September 24, 20166th Dr. Jose P. Rizal Award for Peace and Social Justice Gala Filipino Community Center, Waipahu; 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM; Sponsored by the Knights of Rizal-Hawaii Chapter Contact Persons: Mario Palma 397-8626, Raymund Liongson 381-4315, or Jun Colmenares 838-9775

october 30, 2016“Who Are You Tonight?” Halloween and Masquerade Ball Fundraising event presented by the Phi l ippine Nurses Association of Hawaii (PNAH) Rumours Nightclub, Ala Moana Hotel. 5:00 PM-10:00PM; Contact Persons: Tina Salvador 426-6183, Ramon Sumibcay 489-7148,Erlinda Ferrer 721-1501

november 19, 2016N A M I , I N C . N u r s i n g Advocates & Mentors, Inc. 15th Anniversary Gala and Appreciation of RN Review Class Volunteer Lecturers & Recognition of New RN’s and Review Graduates. 6:00 PM; Banyan Tree Showroom, Hale Koa Hotel Contact Persons: Bea

Ramos-Razon 808 778-6291, Jun Obaldo 808 277-7495, Bong Curameng 808 383-0135

november 19, 2016Fi l ip ino Business Women Association (FBWA) celebrates its 33rd Annual Kimona Ball and FBWA Business Women of the Year Award Presentation. Hawaii Prince Hotel. 6:00 PM Contact Persons: President- Nancy Walch 778-3832, Kimona Ball Chairwoman Armi Oliver Farinas 221-0667, Co-Chair Elsa Talavera 358-8964

THE FIL-AM COURIER • jUnE 16-30, 2016 • PAGE 3

PubLISHERMary Llanos Cordero

MAnAgIng EDIToRBennette Espineli Misalucha

DIREcToR of DESIgnArmando Dela Cruz Busmente

PRoDucTIon MAnAgERAlice Llanos Busmente

ASSISTAnT EDIToRRadiant Cordero

coPy EDIToRDanielle Evangelista

PHoTogRAPHERS/gRAPHIcSBrandon dela Cruz

Noah FelipeGabe de Liso

Jeff OrigJames Ramos

coLuMnISTSEdna Alikpala

Rhoda Yabez Alvarez, Esq.Jesse Bacon IINancy BernalCesar Bonilla

Alice Llanos BusmenteAmelia Casamina CabatuAnabel Gasmen Cabebe

Dr. Rickie CamaraDr. Patricia Halagao

Zeny MuyotAngie Santiago

Perfecto Yasay Jr.

conTRIbuTIng WRITERSConrad Abuel

Ric AgnesPaul Alimbuyao

Ria BaldeviaEriza Bareng

Marnelli Joy BasilioBernie CaalimRandy Cortez

Radiant CorderoMary CruzadaJaime de Jesus

Brandon dela CruzChristian Evangelista

Imelda GasmenVeronika Geronimo

Leo GozarBen GutierrezKathleen Lee

Carmela MinayaGladys Quinto Marrone

Gladys MenorJohn PagaraganPaola Rodelas

Judy RelosimonSandra SagisiNicole Velasco

Jason UbayMichiVillaruz

nEIgHboR ISLAnD buREAuMaui

Kit ZuluetaJeremy Zane

big Island Mil AsuncionJane Clement

Dr. Margarita Hopkins

KauaiVirgie CruzadaLiza Trinidad

Marynell Valenzuela

ADVERTISIng SALESMarivicAldayaMary Cordero

Annabel CabebeFlorence Tan McCollom

Lydia KamiyaJoni Redick-Yundt

Rudy BautistaMarynel Valenzuela

cIRcuLATIonFlorence Tan (Oahu)

Ron Oshiro(Leeward Oahu)David Cordero (Maui)

Marynel Valenzuela (Kauai)Milli Asuncion (Big Island)

LEgAL counSELAlfredo Evangelista, Esq.

Atty. Ernesto Urbano (Phils.)

All rights reserved printed in the u.s.a ©

HFAMC

Hawaii Filipino American Media CouncilFFAMAS

Federation of Filipino American Media Associationsof the United States and Canada

m e m b e r

Telephone: 808.595.8787Facsimile: 808.595.6883E-Mail: [email protected]

www.filamcourier.net

THE fIL-AM couRIERis published twice a month by

oAHu RELocATIon SERVIcESlocated at 2221 Liliha St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96817

Opinions expressed by the columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Fil-Am Courier. Publisher reserves the right to edit lettersto the editor and other material submitted. Reproduc-tion of material and ads appearing in the Fil-Am courier is forbidden without written permission. All photos submitted become the property of the Fil-Am Courier.

serving The communiTy since 1987serving The communiTy since 1987serving The communiTy since 1987serving The communiTy since 1987

B y r A D i A n T c o r D e r o

What I like about dads, especially mine.

Fathers can be such characters and they can bring such joy and fun to their family. But, we can admit that these quirks are what make us love them.

Here’s a “list-icle” as to some of the reasons why dads – to me – are pretty cool.

For dad jokes,

obviously.

For always loving

us!

For being a

protector of their family.

For making

trying new food an

adventure.

Radiant with her father, David.

For setting a high bar

for our future

boyfriends.

And Spidermans. Or Batmans. Basically, any

superhero we admired.

For being our Santa Clauses.

For theirtexts.

For putting up with our

hobbies, even if it means glitzy nails.

For inventing

fun parenting hacks to

ease their own life.

1. 2.

3. 4.

5. 6.

7. 8.

9. 10.


our cover....

This stock photo from the Reuters/US Navy archives shows Mischief Reef which is part of the disputed Spratly Islands in the

South China Sea. In the distance are Chinese dredging vessels that occupied the area in May 2015.

Cover concept by Noah Felipe of Orig media. Mahalo to Jeff Orig.

Both Noah and Jeff can be reached at www.origmedia, a

multi-awarded creative outfit that specializes in video/photography

and in helping people and organizations tell their story.

Phone number: 808 447-9559.

by DR. gInA A. JAMoRALIn

illegal actions in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), which is part of the Philippines exclusive economic zone (EEZ), including the harassment of Filipino fishermen and illegal harvesting of giant clams. The Problem The root cause of the problem is China’s excessive claims over nearly the

This is the Philippines’ peaceful way to respond to China’s unilateral actions to pursue its excessive claim over the South China Sea as manifested by its massive island-building and construction activities in the area and the consequent irreversible destruction of marine environment. S i n c e 2 0 1 2 , t h e Philippines protested China’s

The Arbitral Tribunal of the Permanent Court of Arbitration is expected to issue its ruling soon on the Philippine vs China case on the issue of maritime entitlements and rights of coastal states such as the Philippines under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea over the South China Sea or the West Philippine Sea.

EXCLUSIVE TO THE FIL-AM COURIER

Why the International Community Needs to Do

More in Resolving the South China Sea Issue

Source: Excerpt from “Ang West Philippine Sea - Isang Sipat”, Published by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office, Office of the President, Philippines.


entire South China Sea that is represented by the so called “nine-dash-line”. This is an excessive and expansive claim which cannot be justified under international law. China’s claims include waters, i s lands, ree fs , rocks , seabed, minerals and living and non-living resources falling within the “nine-dashed-line” drawn around the South China Sea. This imaginary l ine comprises almost 90% of the total area of the South China Sea, encroaches 80% of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and 100% of the Philippines extended continental shelf (ECS) facing the South Ch ina Sea (what the Philippines refers to as the West Philippine Sea). 1

Republic Act (R.A.) 9522 or the Philippine Archipelagic baselines Law To better understand the Philippine claim, it is worth recalling R.A. 9522 or the Phil ippine Archipelagic Baselines Law ( which amended R.A. 3046 ) passed by the Philippine Congress on 10 March 2009. This law defines the archipelagic baselines of the Philippines in accordance with the Article 46 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Under UNCLOS, of which Philippines and China are signatories, an archipelagic state (like Philippines) is allowed to draw straight base l ines jo in ing the outermost points of the outer islands and reefs. An archipelagic state is a group of is lands, including parts of islands, interconnecting waters and other natural features. Under Article 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the Philippine archipelago comprises all the islands and waters embraced therein and all other territories over which the Philippines has sovereignty including its territorial sea, the seabed, the subsoil, the insular

shelves and other submarine areas. The Philippines is one of the original signatory of UNCLOS which recognizes the Phi l ippines as an archipelagic state and its right to establish its maritime zones. What are these maritime zones? An archipelagic state’s maritime zones consist of i ts internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental s h e l f a n d e x t e n d e d continental shelf (in this order). Maritime zones are measured from a state’s archipelagic baselines. Therefore without well defined baselines, it would be difficult to measure and determine a state’s maritime zones. Hence, the importance o f R . A . 9 5 2 2 w h i c h delineated the archipelagic baselines of the Philippines from which the different maritime zones emanated and measured. The passage of RA 9522 allows the Philippines to delimit its maritime boundaries with its neighbors.

Phi l ipp ine Mar i t ime Zones –Defined The Philippines exercises sovereignty over its internal waters and archipelagic waters, the airspace over them and seabed and subsoil within them. Archipelagic waters are waters on the landward side of the archipelagic baselines while internal waters are waters on the landward side of the archipelagic baselines

of territorial sea. The territorial sea is a belt of sea measured twelve(12) nautical miles from thebase l ines . Aga in , the Ph i l i pp i nes exe r c i s e s s ove r e i gn t y ove r i t s territorial sea, and the airspace, seabed and subsoil according to UNCLOS. Beyond the territorial sea is the contiguous zone which measures twenty-four (24) nautical miles from the baselines. Under UNCLOS, the Philippines is entitled to

twelve (12) nautical miles territorial sea and contiguous zone and two hundred (200) nautical miles exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf. Under UNCLOS, the Philippines as a coastal state has sovereign rights to explore, exploit, protect and manage the natural resources within its EEZ and continental shelf. U n d e r U N C L O S , c o n t i n e n t a l s h e l f i s defined as the stretch of the seabed adjacent to

the shores of a particular country to which it belongs; measuring 200 nautical miles from the archipelagic baselines and could extend up to 350 nautical miles for an extended continental shelf. Oi l and gas are usually mined in continental shelves.

Philippine claim How should the Philippines react if almost 80% of its EEZ and 100% of its extended continental shelf located in the South China Sea are being claimed by another country? This is the problem of China’s “nine-dash-line” encroaching on another country’s sovereign rights and maritime entitlements under UNCLOS. China’s nine-dash-line claim extends beyond the 200 miles EEZ measured from China’s baselines which is the allowable limit for an EEZ under UNCLOS. In the meantime, the

(ref: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/121023/in-photos-chinas-reclamation-in-west-philippine-sea)


South China Sea or the West Philippine Sea has seen increased provocative actions and continuous maritime presence of China which have raised tensions and affected the livelihood of Filipino fishermen who relied on small-scale fishing in the area for their livelihood. I n 2 0 1 2 , C h i n a prevented Filipino fishermen to fish in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) by spraying water cannons to drive them away and imposing fishing bans. Every Filipino should be concerned of the serious implications if his/her country’s sovereign rights and maritime entitlements a r e b e i n g v i o l a t e d ;

preventing its people and future generations of Filipinos to explore, utilize and manage their own natural resources within its own territory. China’s massive island-building unilaterally changes the status quo in the region and disregards international law.

Support from the International community It is for this reason that the Philippines pursued a three-pronged approach to assert its sovereignty and maritime entitlements in the South China Sea – the diplomatic track, regional track and the legal track.

A s a l a w - a b i d i n g member of the international community and founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Philippines has exhausted all reasonable political and diplomatic avenues for a peaceful negotiated settlement of the maritime dispute with its neighbor. The Phil ippines had bilateral discussions with China without yielding mutually satisfying results to resolve differences. Parallel to these discussions, the Philippines called for full and effective implementation of the ASEAN Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and the expeditious conclusion of a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea between ASEAN and China to manage tensions and pursue peaceful means to resolve the dispute among ASEAN claimant countries and China. The third track – the legal track – is a third party arbitration in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, specifically UNCLOS. Arbitration under Annex VII and Part XV of UNCLOS is considered a peaceful and sustainable way of resolving maritime disputes. T h e P h i l i p p i n e s ’ arbitration case does not

Dr. Gina A. Jamoralin is the Consul General of the Republic of the Philippines to Hawaii (with consular jurisdiction as well in American Samoa).

1Carpio, Antonio T., “The Rule of Law in the West Philippine Sea Dispute”, Speech delivered before the Phil ippine Bar Association on 29 August 2013, Manila, Philippines.

seek to determine which country owns the features in the South China Sea; rather, it is about clarifying the extent of maritime zones that China and Philippines are legally entitled to under UNCLOS. T h e P h i l i p p i n e s ’ arbitration case is not about delimitation of maritime boundaries, but about entitlement to maritime zones a l lowed under UNCLOS. The Philippines is asking the Tribunal to confirm if the maritime entitlements of China are only those permitted by UNCLOS and to determine the nature and entitlements of insular features under UNCLOS. The decision of the Tribunal will clarify the Philippines’ maritime rights including its fishing rights, rights to resources and rights to enforce laws within its EEZ. A Tribunal decision will assure the international community that international law could work for both big and small countries regardless of mil i tary, economic and pol it ical power and therefore the international community has a stake and interest in supporting the decision of the Arbitral Tribunal for the sake of preserving the rule of law and effectiveness of international institutions in

resolving disputes among states. A rules-based approach in d i spu te reso lu t i on akin to the World Trade O rgan i z a t i on d i spu te reso lut ion mechanism which has been effective in preventing trade wars or beggar-thy-neighbor brand of protectionism among states is needed for long-term peace, security, stability and predictability in the South China Sea. More than half of world trade passes through the South China Sea, which makes freedom of navigation and overflight critical for international commerce. I n t i m i d a t i o n , harassment or threat of force is an aberration in modern international relations. Respect for the rule of law, diplomacy and mutual trust should be the norm. The impor tance o f resolving territorial and ma r i t ime d i f f e r ences through the rule of law for the international community cannot be overemphasized. The United States, Japan, Australia, ASEAN, European Union, ASEM, G-7, among others came up with strong statements to support the peaceful m e a n s i n r e s o l v i n g disputes in the South China Sea in accordance with international law including UNCLOS. T h e r e s t o f t h e international community is expected to do no less. Failure to do so will haunt us years from now.


by bEnnETTE ESPInELI MISALucHA

Managing Editor, Fil-Am Courier

FATHER in FOCUS:

c o u r i e r : H o w m a n y grandchildren? Is it true that you love your grandchildren more than your own children?

Alex: Two grandchildren (Alia Vivecca Vergara and Duncan Alexander Vergara , now teen-agers).

courier: Any regrets?

Alex: No regrets. I am blessed with a caring wife, loving c h i l d r e n , s u p p o r t i v e congregations.

courier: Please share about your dad. Please characterize your relationship with him.

Alex: My dad was an academic scholar. He read books as if the supply would run out. He gave long sermons and prayers - a style I decided not to emulate. But deep in my heart I knew his desire.

courier: Please share your advice to fathers everywhere.

Alex: Be natural. Be thankful that you have your child/children. Share their laughters and tears; love them as they find themselves and their gifts to the world.

courier: What were some of the struggles you had as a father?

Alex: Juvenile delinquencies... I once had to go to the Police Academy (before I became a chaplain) for my daughter’s t ruancy “ sen tence” . . . I supported my children when they attended Private Schools on my meager Pastor’s salary.

courier: Can you point to a moment when you felt that all the sacrifices were worth it?

Alex: Graduation ceremonies, family vacations and family reunions.

courier: How did you feel when you first learned that your son Vernon was going to follow in your footsteps as a minister? Please describe how he made the decision and how you found out about his decision. Did he seek your advice?

Alex: I knew Vernon would follow in my footsteps and my father’s footsteps because of his gifts and graces, early involvement in church activities, his outlook on life and the way he enjoyed the Christian ministry. He made the decision himself. I didn’t push him to go to seminary and ordination although I was delighted he went through the process of being a clergy. person. It was so natural, it was almost a “given.” No, he didn’t seek my advice. He was on his own, although he knew through first-hand experience the trials and tribulations of being in ministry.

By virtue of his calling as a Protestant pastor and a police chaplain, it can be argued that Reverend Alex Vergara is the father of his flock as he ministers to their spiritual needs. Humble, articulate and soft-spoken, Vergara is also the President of the Oahu Filipino Community Council, a role which he had fulfilled for the past two years. Married to the former Marienne Villanueva, Vergara has three children: Vernon, Virgil and Victoria (married to Donnie Wocasek), The Courier checked in with Vergara to ask his views on Fatherhood as we celebrate Father’s Day:

c o u r i e r : H o w d o y o u characterize yourself as a father? (Strict? Indulgent?)

Alex: Not so strict... I’ve given them freedom to move around freely, to take the risk but to accept consequences of their actions; to be creative and explore their world.

courier: What do you like most about being a father?

Alex: Holding them in my arms when they were born. It’s a good feeling that you belong to a bloodline and being looked up to as head of the family. I am supportive in their endeavors.

courier: What is your best memory as a father?

Alex: My best memory was in Kekaha, Kauai when we all lived in a simple but magical plantation community of loving and being loved as my children grew up from childhood to adulthood.

Bennette Misalucha is the Managing Editor of the Fil-am Courier. She has been affiliated with the Courier for 27 years. Bennette is a former reporter for KHON Channel 2 news and was a newscaster/news producer in Cebu.

Dahil sa pagmamahal ng Amang Dios sa buong mundoSinugo ang bugtong na anak na si Jesu-Cristo na nagkatawang taoUpang ang lahat ng sumampalataya sa Kanya at magsisi sa kasalananMagkakamit ng kapatawaran at buhay na walang hanggan.

Si Amang Abraham ay isang amang mapagmahalNaging masunurin sa Dios Amang sa kanya ay lumalangSinubok ng Dios na isakripisyo nag-iisang anak na si IsaacWalang pag-aatubiling sumunod ngunit di naman siya pinabayaan at ipinahamak.

Ngayong nalalapit na Araw ng mga AmaAng tulang ito ay para sa kanilaPagka’t kung ano ang kahalagahan ng mga inaLalo na ang mga ama kailangan ng bawat pamilya.

Ang mga Ama ay haligi ng tahananSa buong mag-anak siya ang sandalanGaya ng isang bahay tiyak itong mabubuwagKapag nawala ang haligi bigla itong babagsak.

Ang Ama ang siyang tagapag-hanapbuhayUpang matugunan sa pamilyang pangangailangan Lahat ng kinikita buong pagmamahal na ibinibigaySa Inang nagbabadyet gastusin sa bahay.

Ang mga Ama’y likas na mapagmahalGinagawa ang lahat ng paraan upang pamilya ay mabuhaySa pagtatrabaho hindi iniinda ang sakit ng katawanMapaligaya lamang mga mahal sa buhay.

Ang aking Ama ay isang amang uliranPagmamahal sa pamilya ay walang kapantayBawa’t sentimong kanyang kinita na pinaghirapanBuong-buong iniintriga sa mahal naming nanay.

Naalaala ko tuloy ang kuwento ng aking inaNa nangyari noong kaming apat na mga anak ay bata paSapagka’t si Ama ay di nakatapos ng pag-aaralKaya’t lahat ng mabibigat na trabaho ang napapasukan.

Ang sabi ni Ina minsan daw ay wala si Amang makita ng trabahoKaya pumasok siya sa isang “construction” na maghakot ng mga “Hollow Blocks”na batoSapagka’t matalas mga batong kanyang binubuhatNagkasugat-sugat ang kanyang balikat.

Nang siya’y umuwi at nagpalit ng damitNakita ni Inang balikat ay may dugo at damit ay nakadikitNapaiyak daw siya sa malaking habagPara raw si Cristo na nagpasan ng krus nang sa Kalbaryo ay paakyat.

Ang pera raw na kinita ng mahal kong AmaBuong-buo at walang bawas ibinigay sa kaniyaHindi raw niya ito magasta-gasta Pagka’t dugo ang pinuhunan sa pagkita ng nasabing pera.

Ang aking Ama ay talagang “Good Provider”Hindi natatakot pasukin anumang gawainPagka’t nais niyang asawa at mga anak ay guminhawaKahit anong hirap titiisin niya.

Si PAPA naman na aking asawaHabang pinalalaki namin supling na limaNaalaala ko na sa paghahatian ng anumang bagayAko ang inuuna sa anumang partihan.

Susunod na hahatian aming limang anakSa kanya ang huli at karaniwan pinakamaliit at kung minsan wala na siyang matanggapPagka’t naniniwala siya sa kasabihan,“Maipapakita ng isang Ama ang pagmamahal sa kanyang mga anak kung ang una niyang mamahalin ay ang kanilang ina” .

Maraming mga Ama ang nangingibang bansaUpang magtrabaho at lumaki ang kitaTinitiis iwanan sariling tahananUpang pamilya’y mabigyan magandang kinabukasan.

Sa pananatili sa ibang bansa tinitiis ang lungkotDi alintana sakit ng katawan at bigat ng loobMakapagpadala lamang perang panustos Sa pag-aaral ng mga supling upang makatapos.

Sa isang tahanan ang Ama ay mahalagaSa pagdisiplina sa mga batang paslit paKailangan nila ang gabay sa kanilang paglakiUpang di maligaw sa landas na mabuti.

Ang mga Ama ay huwag kalimutanIpakita sa kanila wastong paggalang at pagmamahalHindi mabubuo ang isang tahananKung wala ang Amang sa pamilya ay labis ang pagmamahal.

Kaya mga bata dapat pahalagahanPagsisikap at hirap ni tatay at nanayMagsipag sa pag-aral pagkat pagdating ng araw Kayo naman ang magiging mga magulang.

Alex Vergara

Editor’s Note: You may call my mother, 82-year old Avelina Espineli Misalucha, a late bloomer. At an age when most people are taking it slow, she had felt the creative tickle a few months ago and discovered that she had the gift of prose. Like a rising tide that could not be held back, she has been prolific in capturing sentiments centered around universal themes. Writing in her native tongue— Filipino— my mother creates works of art that incorporates a little of her personal history.

Here is her poem on fatherhood:

AMABy Avelina Espineli Misalucha


Burauen, Leyte, Philippines native Epifanio “Fani” Enciso Tedios was born on April 7, 1943 to Benedicto and Rosario Tedios. Be fo re a r r i v i ng to Hawai ‘ i and making it his home, Fani’s musical talents brought him around the world with the group the Manila Machine. They traveled to East Asia and numerous states in America,

On May 31, 2016, Hawai‘i’s Filipino community lost an iconic musician that will leave behind a legacy that will transcend time. Known for his beautiful and hypnotizing alto and tenor saxophone perfor-mances a t o c cas i ons throughout Hawai‘i, as well as the multiple musical talents he blessed the commun i ty w i th , the

In Memoriam:

by Dr. RIcKIE cAMARAby RADIAnT coRDERoFani Tedios

including Hawai‘ i. Fani decided to make Hawai‘i his permanent residence in June of 1970. After the Manila Machine separated, Fani joined the Big Al & Company, City L ights, Flipside, and Reflections. Along with those amazing gigs, Tedios also exercised his leadership muscles and organized the following groups: M & M’s, Manila Band, and Manila Band II. His musical talents go beyond just the alto and tenor saxophone, to include just about any other wind instruments, guitar, violin, piano, even composing his own songs and melodies. If you’ve seen Fani in action, you can see that he could be his own one-man-band if he wished to. However, he has shared his passion and love for entrancing music with his wife of 30 years, Marie Tedios. In 2001, the husband and wife team formed FM Entertainment to fully share their musical talent at different organizations’ and groups’ events. The team

organized the Congress of Visayan Organizations (COVO) serenaders for the opening celebration of the Filipino Community Center in 2002, where Fani played guitar, and saxophone. The husband and wife even

took their talent national when they traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana for the Mabuhay Philippine Cultural Group and Barangay Club of Indiana from 2012-14. Fani recorded minus-one CDs all the instrumental accompa-niment for his and Marie’s live performances. He made it a family-affair, too, with self-producing CDs featuring his wife and son Geoffrey with the help of Rendez-Vous Recording, Pierre Grill, including: “Alto La Menor” (2005), “Sakadas One Hundred Years Today: 1906-2006” (2006), “Leyte to Laoag Vol. 1” (2009), “Buhay” (2011) and “The Caregivers’ Song” (2012) for the Hawai‘i Caregivers Associat ion. Fani a lso composed a song, “Kampeon at Bayani” and several original songs recorded by Rene De La Pena. His God-given talent didn’t go unnoticed with well-deserved recognitions,


such as the Manila Stars Outstanding Showmanship Award (August 1973), United Filipino Council of Hawai‘i’s (January 2006) and COVO’s (August 2006) Certificate of Recognition in Arts & Entertainment, and much more. Along with keeping a busy schedule with his music, Fani owned “Save-O-Ware of Hawai‘i” which involved direct selling of

Radiant Cordero is an Assis-tant Editor at the Fil-Am Courier. She was awarded by the United Filipino Council of Hawaii as an “Outstanding Youth” and by the JCI Filipino Junior Chamber as a “Top Outstanding Young Filipino.” She graduated with honors from the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa with a B.A. in Political Science and B.A. in American Studies in May 2012. Cordero works as a Se-nior Advisor at the Honolulu City Council. She recently graduated with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration at the University of Hawaii at Manoa with high honors.

qual ity cookwares and jewelries. Fani shared his life fully with his wife Marie, but, also with his sisters, Lolita Tedios Ongbico and Fe Tedios Cartel; and children: Heidi Tedios Fowler, Czar Tedios, Benedict Aurelio Tedios, Geoffrey Aurelio Tedios, Kathryn Aurelio Tedios; and nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.


to work and provide a future for their families,” explained 54 year old Tan. “My mother was born in Papaiku, Hawaii, spent her first seven years on the plantation, upon which she returned to the Philippines and later, married and started a family.” After high school, Tan enrolled at a local university but the opportunity to come to Hawaii came knocking: “I remember my mother suddenly telling me that my passport was clear,” Tan recalled, “and that I should go to Hawaii and reunite with family there.”

Working His Way upUpon arrival in Hawaii, Tan worked first as a freelance landscaper in order to make ends meet, but soon found himself in a career that would launch him into a new

Each year visitors from all over the world pour billions of dollars into our local economy, making tourism and hospitality a core economic driver to the state of Hawaii. Supporting this economic juggernaut are the 10,000 strong members of UNITE HERE Local 5 which seeks to fight for workers’ rights across the state of Hawaii.H e r n a n d o Ta n , w h o currently serves as the elected President of the union, has spent the last 36 years fighting alongside those workers and now seeks to lead Local 5 for the top position of Financial Secretary & Treasurer in an election scheduled at the end of this month.

Humble beginnings “My grandparents were sakadas, arriving in Hawaii

by Dr. RIcKIE cAMARAby bRyAn JAco gALLARDE

FIGHTING FOR CHANGE, FIGHTING FOR BETTER GOVERNANCE

journey. With the help of his brother, Tan applied and was hired at the Sheraton Waikiki, where he served as a houseman in the Housekeeping Department. “That’s when I first got involved with the union. When I saw infractions, I realized I had the heart of an activist in me, and a burning desire to serve my brothers and sisters in the hotel industry,” said Tan, who eventually became heavily involved with union activities.

Stepping up to the challenge “Before even becoming a shop steward, I had a strong sense of loyalty and a desire to improve working conditions for our brothers and sisters,” said Tan. “I recall a situation where a woman in housekeeping

desperately asked me to assist her. I didn’t know the technicalities of the contract yet, but I agreed, and I fought for her in a meeting. She was so grateful, and became almost like a mother to me,” remembered Tan. “From that moment on, a fire was lit in me. This was all I have ever wanted to do.”

Honoring the Past to Serve the Present Tan passionately cites the history of labor in Hawaii as a touchstone. “I am really inspired by the ILWU, the union that represented the plantation workers,” said Tan, “ILWU fought for my grandparents who worked long days in dangerous and unfathomable conditions.


Adela P. Parado, 89, of Kapolei, Hawaii, a retired Nurse at the Oahu Community Correctional Center, passed away on Monday, June 6, 2016 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Dingras, Ilocos Norte, Philippines and was married to the late Vito Ballesta Parado of La Paz, Abra, Philippines. She is survived by her children Joseph (Alda) Parado, Rose Parado (Beth), Nestor (Nellie) Parado, Bella Parado, Zena (Delano)

Venzon, Vito “Amar” (Pylman) Parado , Odette (Arsenio) Mendoza, Rowena (Steve) Parado-Cid, Visitacion Tetchie Parado, Lucina Parado, Efren Parado, Ruben (Julie) Parado, Francisco Parado, sister Genoveva Onate, 26 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Visitation and Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual

Help, Ewa Beach on Monday, June 27, 2016 at 9 am., Burial to follow at Mililani Memorial Park and Mortuary.

Because of the collective work of labor unions, we have eight hour workdays, workplace safety laws, weekends, and so many benefits that improve our quality of life. These policies were the results of the struggle of labor activists, who fought for workers. Leaders like Pablo Manlapit who became one of the first Filipino labor leaders, serve as my inspiration.”

filipino American Values Tan joked, “We Filipinos are hard-working, our work ethic is unquestionable, and sometimes we don’t complain as much as we should!” Tan explains that Filipino-Americans constitute over 70% of Unite Here Local 5, a significant demographic that i s imperat ive to t h e e m p o w e r m e n t and betterment of our community. “We cannot separate who we are, and the struggles that define us, ” said Tan, “and that’s the core of my campaign message and why I’m running to be a leader of this union.”

campaign for change underway The election between Tan and current Financial Secretary/Treasurer Eric Gill, will be completed by the end of this month, and the results announced in July 2016. “This campaign is about change, about protecting the rights of our workers, and most importantly,

b r i n g i n g g o ve r n an c e back to its members,” said Tan. “I am running a grassroots campaign across the state, pledging to restore things like regular membership meetings on all islands, allowing division representatives to have a direct meaningful say in their negotiations, and fighting greed that steps on the backs of our workers.” Tan’s endorsements include key Filipino leaders in Hawaii across the island both within and outside the membership. If elected, Tan will be the first Filipino American to head the Local 5 union. “Leaders have to be a part of them, not apart from them,” said Tan as he advocates to members asking for change.

Bryan Jaco Gallarde is currently a freelance public affairs and communications consultant, with over ten years of local, state, and federal experience in political communications and government. He has managed city council, state house, and congressional campaigns, as well as served as a field and Filipino American Vote Coordinator for the national south-eastern region for President Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign, as well as Communications Associate at Washington D.C. based public affairs firm Dewey Square Group. A graduate of the University of Hawaii, he loves to eat, and is slowly crawling his way through all of Hawaii’s best restaurants.

F U N E R A L S E R V I C E S Adela P. Parado


HIKING HAWAII

IngREDIEnTS1 cup cubed frozen mango3/4 cup sliced ripe banana (about 1 medium)2/3 cup fat-free milk1 teaspoon honey1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

blend ingredients and enjoy!

Jordan Segundo is most noted as the first contestant from Hawaii and the first Filipino-American selected as a Top 32 finalist on season two of American Idol. Since then, he has made a name for himself as one of Hawaii’s top entertainers. In addition to singing, he has branched out into acting and television hosting. He is currently the weekend weather anchor and a reporter for KITV4 Island News. Aside from performing, Segundo is also very active in the community. He generously volunteers his time and talents to worthy causes and non-profit organizations, such as the Ronald McDonald House Charities, the D.A.R.E. Program and the Oahu SCPA. When not performing, Jordan enjoys working out, cooking and hiking. To contact Jordan Segundo, visit his website at www.jsegundo.com

SUMMER FUN

by JoRDAn SEgunDo

Summer is finally here! A time when school is out, traffic on the roads ease up, and the laid-back vibes take over. While most adults still have work and responsibilities, there are no excuses not to enjoy the fun of the season.

The first step to having more fun is carving out time for it. Turn off work email, ditch the smartphone, and say no to time-draining requests. Devote some time to enjoying a real escape, even it’s only for an hour. If you’re worried about having to spend money to have fun, here are some ways to enjoy summer without breaking the bank.

gardening novice, just keep it simple and start with one plant. If it fails, you’ll have learned a few things about what went wrong so you can do it differently next time around. If you already have a garden, expand it or try planting something entirely new.

• Learn something new - Treat the summer like a semester at school. Make it a semester filled with learning all the things you’ve wanted to try but have never gotten around to. The human brain is hard-wired for learning, so even if you hated school, you may be surprised to discover how much you love learning when the subject is something you’re interest in. Maybe it’s learning a new language, a new sport, or taking that ballroom dancing class you’ve always wanted to do - the list of things you could study is infinite.

• Have a Picnic–Take your favorite meal outside. Even if your job requires that you work year-round, you can still have picnic lunches with coworkers during the workweek or with friends on the weekends. Assign each person a drink or food item to bring, and have a great meal without an outrageous cost.

• Play tourist and become a photographer–People from around the world come to Hawaii to enjoy the summer sun. Why not become a tourist for a day yourself? Jump in the car and head to your favorite beach on the north shore or go for a nice hike. Summer is also a wonderful time to try your hand at photography. Taking photos of your adventures is an affordable and creative way to have fun and capture memories.

• Start a garden or expand your existing one–For some people, gardening can be very relaxing and therapeutic. If you’re a

MANGO-BANANA SMOOTHIE

Hawaii has some of best hiking. From hikes to the top of mountains, to hikes through lush green forests that lead to beautiful waterfalls.

There is now a new website created by the Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program and managed by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife. The website features a hikers guide to safer trails in Hawaii.

In addition, the updated website provides hikers with useful resources and content not found on or provided by other online sources such as trail head directions via GPS, detailed information on approved trail use activities, trail features, amenities, and timely weather and safety/hazard warnings. Visit the website at https://hawaiitrails.org


• Reframe the negative thought. How can I think differently about this problem, situation, or view of myself? Allow yourself to view a situation from more than one angle. How might my spouse, friend, or someone I admire view this same problem?

• Use the “best friend” scenario. How would you help your best friend if he or she was having these same thoughts? Would you criticize him or her as harshly as you criticize yourself?

Remember, YOU know YOU better than anyone else. You likely know what kinds of activities, thoughts and reinforcement you respond to. Doing what’s easiest and most “doable” is the key.

anti-depressants every time you exercise or do something pleasurable. Regular exercise is one of the very best ways to improve your mood. In fact some studies have shown that a solid exercise program is as effective as psychotherapy or anti-depressant medication for some people. Force yourself to do someth ing you found p l e a s u r a b l e b e f o r e depression. This may be dif ferent for everyone and it doesn’t matter if its gardening, playing bridge, walking, reading a novel, or simply talking to a close friend. What matters is that YOU find the activity p l e a su rab l e ! E ven i f you don’t feel like doing something pleasurable for yourself, DO IT ANYWAY. We call this the “fake it until you make it” principle. Educate yourself! Often people feel powerless against medical conditions because they do not understand what is happening in their body. Just by reading this handout you know more than most people about depression. Knowledge is power when you can apply it, and make yourself feel better. B e g i n t o n o t i c e unhealthy and unhelpful thoughts! In addition to how we behave, how we think influences our mood directly. Notice recurrent or alarming thoughts that have an impact on your mood. Ask yourself “is this type of thinking helping me or hurting me?” if your answer is “it’s hurting me” here are some things you can do: Challenge the negative thought. Is it truly accurate? W h e r e ’ s t h e p r o o f ? Become your own scientific investigator and collect the facts.

What Depression is not! There are a lot of myths and stigmas surrounding depression. Depression is not a “weakness;” nor is it “all in your head.” Clinical depression is not something that you can just “snap out of.” Unlike other medical conditions like cancer, diabetes, and hypertension, your doctor cannot take a blood test to “prove” that you’re depressed. This often leads those who are depressed to feel that they are lazy, worthless, have failed or have brought depression on themselves in some way. These beliefs contribute to depressed individuals not seeking the help that they need, and in turn can worsen the depression. Because depression is associated with a general suppression of immune factors, not seeking help only allows the depression to continue unchecked and results in adverse health outcomes in other areas. The good news is that help is available. Years of research have identified medical and psychological approaches tha t a re e f f ec t i ve i n treating depression. If you or someone you know is depressed, it ’s very important that you seek help.

Depression is not something you are powerless against Evidence suggests that you can directly impact the intensity and duration of depression by what you do and by altering the way you think about certain things.

How can I start feeling better? The first and best way to reverse the downward cycle is to get active! Your body produces its own

by DR. ALfRED SISon

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

Is depression an illness? Is it treatable? Does it mean that person is ‘crazy’? There are several forms of depression. Depression can develop rapidly or come on slowly over weeks or months. In some cases, depression can develop into a chronic or episodic syndrome. Although many people associate depression only with sadness, there are actually quite a range of symptoms associated with depression. The most common ways for people to experience depression inc lude the fo l l ow ing symptoms:

• Sadness (depressed mood)

• Loss of interest/pleasure in things previously enjoyed

• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

• Low energy• Difficulties concentrating• Appetite or weight

changes (can go in either direction)

• Feeling slowed down, or agitated/restless

• Changes i n s l eep (sleeping more or less than usual)

• Thoughts of death or suicide

The Downward Spiral Depression often begins as a drop in mood due to an environmental or biological trigger that makes people feel less like being active. Being less active, in turn, often causes people to experience an even lower mood and feel even less like being active, and so the cycle begins.

1. Low mood makes you feel like doing less.

2. You stop doing the things you enjoy and become less active

3. Your low mood becomes even lower and you feel like doing less.

4. Cycle continues until you begin to completely isolate and cease all pleasurable activities or you reverse the cycle.

Pick 1 or 2 things that are easy and get started feeling better TODAY! P lease feel f ree to contact me via my website at www.alspsy.com .


Parade Marshal. The parade also featured 1st Runner-up Miss Universe 2012 Janine Tugonon as Reyna Elena of Santacruzan 2016.

Event highlights The Fiesta provided an entire day of fun, food, and civic, cultural and educational booths. Entertainment included prominent singers, performers, and artists from the mainland as well as TV and movie personalities from the Philippines. Performers included Jordan Segundo – Hawaii’s First American Idol, and Leo Days – Elvis Tribute

If you missed the 24th Annual Filipino Fiesta and Parade and 4th Annual Flores de Mayo sponsored by the FilCom Center, then you missed out on the largest cultural gathering and non-stop live entertainment of Hawaii’s Filipino community. The Fiesta and its theme of “Sama Sama sa Saya” (Happy Together) drew tens of thousands of people to Kapiolani Park last May 14. The event kicked off with a 2-mile parade from Fort DeRussy to Kapiolani Park led by Maggie Domingo, the first woman to serve as

by AngIE DyTIoco SAnTIA-go

Sama Sama sa Saya at the 24th Annual Filipino Fiesta at Kapiolani Park

fiesta committee Members.

Edmund Aczon, chairman of filcom center’s board of Direc-tors; ufcH President Maria Etrata; Mrs Hawaii filipina 2016 Jane clement; Philip Sabado - filipino Artist based in Maui who designed the 2016 filipino fiesta Art; Mrs. Hawaii filipina 2015 Maryann Miguel; Miss Hawaii Teen filipina 2015 Ronnie campman; and fiesta Event chair Paul Alimbuyao.

bulacan circle & Associates of Hawaii Dancers: Angie Santiago, Albert Roque, Ricky Simon, beth Simon, Linda Abuel, conrad Abuel, Marcie Wong, and Lin Wong.

Duet by Martin nievera and Jordan Segundo. Photo courtesy of Damien Santiago.

The Rockacoustic Heartthrob Sam Milby was welcomed by loud cheers and shrieks from the audience as he opened his performance.

Hawaii’s first American Idol Jordan Segundo with The young once - Mercy Palijo, Helen Takemoto, Mona Supnet, and cora orsino.


Artist; Augie T, Philippine stars Sam Milby and Gelo of TFC’s Barangay USA. Headlining the event was the Concert King of the Philippines and Las Vegas performer Martin Nievera. Entertainment aplenty Loca l ta lents were M i s ty Ke la ’ i , B rad ley Anguay, Jennavie Ancheta, A r a h m a e D o m i n g o , Shannon Domingsil, Bryan Robello-Gazmen, Raymond Sebastian, Kaylee Shimizu, and Joel Tolentino, as well as the Bandalan Doce Pares Hawaii, the Bulacan Circle

Sama Sama sa Saya at the 24th Annual Filipino Fiesta at Kapiolani Park

and Associates of Hawaii Dancers, CORO Filipino, the Filipino United Church of Christ group, “The Young Once” of the Kalihi Palama Culture & Arts Society, the Filipino-American Club from Farrington High School, and the Tekniqlingz. T h e n u m b e r o f participants in this year’s parade and fiesta was nearly double that of the year before despite just three months of preparation, planning, and coordination. Credit for the high turnout of parade marchers and entertainers goes to a handfu l o f

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 Ha-

waii (BCAH), an Assistant Auditor

for the Philippine Celebrations

Coordinating Committee of Hawaii

(PCCCH), and the Assistant Trea-

surer for the Filipino Chamber of

Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH). She

served 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 enjoys photog-

raphy and participating in cultural

and social activities and events.

committee members led by overall Event Chair Paul Alimbuyao, Vice Chair Vince Baldemor, Parade Chair Jun Suela, Santacruzan Chairs Novie Hartwell and Via Van Bokhoven, Entertainment and Program Chair Angie Santiago, Marketing Chair Maribell Pabalan, Health Fair Booths Chair Fides Delgado, and Cultural Booths Chair Arceli Repollido.

fiesta emcees giselle Tongi with Kaba-bayan Today, Amelia casamina-cabatu, and glenn Sagayodoro. other emcees included Al Waterson, Via Van bokhoven, and noche Tan galacgac. Philippines Superstar Martin nievera participated in

the 24th Annual filipino fiesta and Parade.Parade grand Marshal Maggie Domingo. Photo courtesy of Ann Yonamine.

The filipino-American club from farrington High School wowed the audience with their Sayaw sa bangko performance.

Arthur greniger, Reyna Rosa Mystica - Mary Anzen greni-ger, Reyna corazon de Maria - Hannah grace Sims, and Malou Mahilum.

one of two lucky winners of a round trip ticket to the Philip-pines courtesy of Philippine Airlines.

Ave Maria Angels: Kelly yoshikawa, Lexi Keifer, Rae yoshika-wa, Anna Sophia Valdez, Samantha Aguada, caitlyn Shiroma, and Sophia Doruelo.

Honolulu ford President Mark benson and Miss universe 2012 1st Runner-up Janine Tugonon pose with Mrs. Hawaii Pageant contestants.

Pork belly lechon from uncle Dick’s Lechon was a crowd pleaser dish. Sari Sari Store.


by DR. cHRISToPHER ToRToRA, M.D.Medical Director of

Hawaiian Eye Center

general process involves removing the clouded lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens implant. Modern cataract surgery can usually be upgraded to include vision correction to reduce dependency on glasses and contacts for those with vision impairments near, far and in between. Surgery is typically outpatient with very little pain or discomfort.

Hawaiian Eye Center is one of a few surgical

centers on Oahu equipped with LENSAR, an advanced femtosecond laser system with a more precise and customizable treatment for cataracts. LENSAR’s system integrates unique functions l ike Augmented Real i ty imaging, which provides a 3D view of the eye. Surgeons can fully automate and customize

More than 24 mill ion Amer icans su f fe r f rom cataracts, according to Prevent Blindness America and t he Na t i ona l Eye Institute. June is designated Cataract Awareness Month by the American Academy of Ophthalmology to remind those at risk to be aware of the symptoms and to get regular eye exams. If left untreated, cataracts worsen over time and can lead to blindness. A cataract is a natural process of aging that occurs when the normally clear lens of the eye starts to become cloudy. Light necessary for the retina to process images is blocked and distorted. Signs of cataracts include blurred vision, sensitivity to light, fading or yellowing of colors, poor night vision, sensitivity to glare and seeing a halo around bright lights. Some risk factors include exposure to ultraviolet light, diet, smoking, diabetes, use of some steroid medications and serious eye injuries. T h e g o o d n e w s i s cataracts are treatable. Cataract surgery is one of the most common operations performed in the U.S. The

critical planning and execution steps for refractive cataract surgery. Surgical mapping tools allow for more specific parameters during surgery for increased accuracy and precision. If you are 40 and over, you should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam every two to three years from your eye

Dr. Christopher Tortora, a board certified ophthalmologist, is host of “The Hawaiian Eye Show,” a weekly informational radio program about healthy vision broadcast live every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KHVH 830 AM/rebroadcast at 9 p.m. on KHBZ 990 AM. He and his colleagues at the Hawaiian Eye Center are committed to educating the public about the importance of preventative eye care. To learn more about a variety of eye health issues, please call the Hawaiian Eye Center at 621-8448 or visit www.HawaiianEye.com and www.Facebook.com/HawaiianEyeCenter, where “life has never looked better.”

June is Cataract Awareness Month

care professional. If you are 40 and over with other risk factors or 60 and over, you should get an eye exam once a year. Preventative measures and an early diagnosis can help you protect your vision from cataracts. Speak with your doctor and make sure you know the signs.


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Low down payments, financing, training and an inintial custom-er base. Immediate opportu-nies in Hawaii.cALL coVERALL ToDAy AT

808.225.2610This offer is made by prospectus only. See Franchise Disclosure Documents for details.

buSInESS oPPuRTunITy

SERVIcES

Drivers needed!Will be moving cars

from various locationson Oahu. Must have

clean driving [email protected]

Ph. 695-3974

DRIVER & PRocESSIon

RooM WoRKERClean abstract required for

driver. Competitive pay, medi-cal,dental, vision, & 401k profit

sharing benefits.Apply In peron at:

KoHA fooDS500 Alakawa St.. #104 Ho-

nolulu, HI 96817

foR REnT

DuPLEX foR REnT4 BEDROOMS / 2 FULL BATH,

QUALIFIED FOR FOSTER HOME /CARE HOME W/PARK-ING /FENCE & GATE, cALL

627-2376232-9798

Experienced Industrial Sew Person needed

Excellent Benefits (Health, 401K, Vacation).

Immediate HireCall: 848-0888

HELP WAnTED HELP WAnTED

WEDDIngS -AnyTIME, AnyWHERE. Judge Graulty (retired)

call 778-8510 to schedule.

Live-In caregiver(cnA/nA) Hawaii Kai

Hawaii Kai ARCH is looking for a live in Or live out caregiver for a 5 beds residential Care home.If interested please e-mail your Resume at berrol55@ yahoo.com or call berly Rol or george at 396-4196.