september162014issue

• THE FIL-AM COURIER • SEPTEMBER 16-30, 2014

THE FIL-AM COURIER • SEPTEMBER 16-30, 2014 • PAGE 3

Sometimes it’s hard to believe how quickly time flies. In the blink of an eye, summer has seemingly ended, family vacations are a distant memory, and yes, a new school year just began. We mark the transition from summer to fall by jotting down on our to-do lists such predictable items as our kid’s haircut, health record updates, school supplies shopping and the like. It is a constant buzz of activity. So dear readers, are you ready for the fall season? As we approach the BER months— SeptemBER, OctoBER, NovemBER and DecemBER, we at the Fil-Am Courier find ourselves embracing new challenges this new season as well. I f on ly our readers could guess the rigors of production; our readers can only imagine the coor-dination and countless hours expended before each issue is put to rest. For instance, while under production, we had trouble with our router and had no internet connection for several days but that didn’t stop our work. Our whole production staff spends sleepless nights putting the pages together like pieces to a puzzle. The whole process repeats every other week because as soon as an issue comes out, we’re back working on our next issue and then the next. It never ends. I t i s e a s y t o g e t overwhelmed by the minutiae of production, so I want to take a mindful pause to express some appre-ciation. My sincerest gratitude and appreciation goes to our Managing Editor, Bennette Misalucha, who constantly keeps the ball rolling since she came on board over a year and a half ago. With her 25 plus years of corporate experience, she keeps in constant close communi-cation with our writers by col laborating new ideas for the paper and bringing higher quality materials for our readers. Her recruitment

and management of top caliber writers made a huge difference in our intent to continue growing, improving and developing to meet our community’s needs. Bennette — You’re the living embodiment of John Wesley’s words: ”Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can...” You certainly have done an awesome job as Managing Editor and for that, we are so grateful. Thank you for the invaluable time and talent you’ve shared this past year. We’ve learned so much from seeing you work. You are amazing at what you do! As for our Production Team—our shout out goes to our Director of Design—Armand Busmente, who is one of our co-founder. Armand creates beautiful layouts in every page — from our cover story articles, to feature stories, profiles, community news, including ad designs. His brilliance in graphics is beyond compare! We a l so t hank ou r Administrative Staff headed by Rudy Bautista and Lydia Kamiya and of course, my family, for their unwavering loyalty and support. They have helped us in so many ways by wearing so many hats from selling ads to delivering the paper at various outlets. They have seen the ups and downs and the sad times and happy times of publishing. You’re awesome! Our Cover Design team is comprised of young and progressive minded indivi-duals who never cease to amaze us with their cover concepts. Our hats off to both Jeff Orig and Noah Felipe at Orig Media. Also to be commended are the photographers who creatively provide the cover photos that people laud us for: James Ramos, Gabe DeLiso and Jeff Orig. Our other young and highly driven individuals are our Associate Editor, Radiant Cordero and Copy Editor, Danielle Evangelista who serve as our “go to” staff team who keeps up

By MARy LLANOS CORDERO

PuBlishERMary Llanos Cordero

Managing EditoRBennette Espineli Misalucha

diREctoR of dEsignArmand Busmente

PRoduction ManagERAlice Llanos Busmente

assistant EditoRsPaola Rodelas

Radiant 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 BusmenteAnabel Gasmen Cabebe

Dr. Rickie CamaraDr. Patricia Halagao

ZenyMuyotAngie 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 Gutierrez

Carmela MinayaGladys QuintoMarrone

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

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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 1987

with the stringent deadlines and manages to pull things together even at the 11th hour. Speak ing o f you th , America is often charac-terized as a youth oriented society. Certainly, this is reflected in the images we see on TV, print or even is social media. Take a gander into Forbes Magazine’s 30 under 30, and you’ll be amazed at what these people have produced at such an early age. Forbes says it is because their ambitions are way bigger — and perfectly suited to the dynamic, entrepreneurial, and impatient digital world they grew up in. We see th is pheno-menon ref lected within Filipino communities as the next generation steps up to positions of power and responsibility. Why not? After all, to paraphrase lyrics from a familiar tune, they are the future. Those of us from an earl ier generat ion (you notice I did not say “old”) or those who cons ider ourselves mentors and role models, must remember to be respectful of our young people’s perspectives, new ideas, and innovations. A new generation means new opportunities, a vision of looking at problems with a fresh set of eyes. It can only result in a better community. Politics is no exception to this. The August 9 Primary Election show-cased some tough and hard fought electoral contests overall. An example is the election waged in Council District 8 which yielded a winner, 28-year old, Brandon Elefante who is of Filipino-American ancestry. E l e f a n t e , who wa s confirmed duly elected at 64% of the votes cast, represents the new emerging political generation. Although he has never held political office, Elefante has worked in politics for many years and was the legislative aide for Council member Breene Harimoto for the past four years. The City Council aide

squared off against Russell Grunch, Brysen Poulton, and Baybee Hufana-Ablan, a member of a number of local Filipino community organi-zations who has served as an Executive Secretary of the Neighborhood Commission. Ms. Hufana-Ablan should also be commended for her hard work and her sincere desire to be a public servant. Elefante is an Aiea High School graduate who went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Business Administration from Saint Mary’s College and an MBA from Chaminade University. The 28 year old has worked as a teacher and coach at Damien and earlier in his career, was an assistant to State Senator Willie Espero. Elefante serves as a model for other young Filipinos to emulate should they choose to run for political office in Hawaii. He adroitly navigated the political path and garnered relevant experience which gave him intimate knowledge and familiarity with the issues in his district. In the end, age really does not matter. Our impacts and what we bring to the table trumps generational advantage. We congratulate Brandon Elefante - the new kid on the block – who we predict will do an admirable job in the halls of Honolulu Hale. Please read more about him inside this issue. Before we conclude, we would like to thank YOU for your continued patronage of the Fil-Am Courier. We commit to continue sharing stories about people, organizations and issues that make our Filipino community in Hawaii unique and special.

God bless All!


statEWidE coMMunity calEndaR

oahu

september 21, 2014Oahu Filipino Community Coun-cil, regular monthly Board of Directors and Unit Organi-zations’ Presidents meeting. Filcom Center, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: Loida Yamamoto 679-9540, Alex Vergara 551-4303.

september 27, 2014The Filipino Chamber of Com-merce of HI, Chinese Chamber of Commerce of HI, Hawaii Korean Chamber of Commerce present the Hawaii Guberna-torial Forum: Duke Aiona, Republican Party Candidate; David Ige, Democratic Party Candidate; Mufi Hannemann, Independent Party Candidate; 9 a.m.-10 a.m.; doors open at 8:30 a.m. at Center for Korean Studies at University of Hawaii at Manoa, 1881 East West Road. Parking available on campus adjacent to Center for Korean Studies. Light refreshments will be served

september 27, 2014Candonians of Hawaii, Instal-lation of Officers by Honorable Congressman Eric Dario Sing-son. Pomaikai Ballroom at Dole Cannery in Iwilei. 6 p.m. Ticket cost: $50. Contact: Berna-dette Fajardo 342-8090, Grace Go 389-1989.

october 4, 2014United Filipino Council of Hawaii presents UFCH Progress Awards 2014 and Reaffirmation of Offi-cers ceremony. Saturday, Oc-tober 4, 2014, Ala Moana Hotel, Hibiscus Ballroom, 6:30 p.m. Ticket cost: $65. Contact: Maria A. F. Etrata 392-2962.

october 5, 2014United Filipino Council of Ha-waii, Board of Governors regu-lar meeting. Max of Manila at Iwilei. 10 a.m. Contact: Maria A. F. Etrata 392-2962.

october 12, 2014Oahu Filipino Community Coun-cil, Reaffirmation of Officers, Di-rectors and Unit Organizations Presidents. Ala Moana Hotel, 6 p.m. – 11 p.m., Ticket cost: $60. Contact: Alex Vergara, President, 551-4303

october 12, 2014Knights of Columbus’ stat award presentation to St. Anthony’s Church Council 14105. Halekoa Hotel. Ticket cost: $45. Con-tact: Ben Cabreros 389-0614.

october 18, 2014The Filipino Chamber of Com-merce of Hawaii Foundation presents the 8th Annual “A Taste of Kalihi” on Colburn Street/Dillingham Shopping Center with delicious food, live entertainment and whole day activities for all. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Booth space available for Business, Food, and Non-profit organizations. Contact: Harry

Alonso at 306-3460; www. filipi-no chamber.org.

october 18, 2014Bulacan Circle and Associates of HI – Baby Boomers Scholarship Event and Halloween costume contest, Reaffirmation of Officers and Directors, 34th Anniversary celebration. Pagoda Hotel, 6 p.m. Ticket cost: $55. Contact: Albert Roque – 782-6002; Angie Santiago – 542-1418; Marcie Wong – 375-6752; Conrad Abuel 721-2773

october 25, 2014The Filipino Community Center. 12th annual Bayanihan Gala Dinner at Sheraton Waikiki Hotel, 6 p.m. Honorees: Justice Mario Ramil, Justice Simeon Acoba and Mrs. Maria A. F. Etrata. Sponsor-ship package forms are available at www.filcom.org/filcom-fund-raiser. Individual tickets: $250. Contacts: Rose Mendoza, rmen-doza808@aol .com, 808-371-3902; Joanne Corpuz, [email protected], 808-382-5092; Arceli Rebollido, [email protected], 808-680-0451.

october 26, 2014Oahu Filipino Community Coun-cil, regular monthly Board of Directors and Unit Organizations’ Presidents meeting. Filcom Cen-ter, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Contact: Loida Yamamoto 679-9540, Alex Vergara 551-4303.

november 1, 2014Pasuquinio Association of Hawaii, Installation of Officers and Direc-tors at Pomaikai Ballroom at Dole Cannery in Iwilei. Ticket cost: $60. Contact: Froebel Garcia 386-6559.

november 8, 2014Timpuyog Dagiti Mannurat nga Ilokano (TMI Global), Installation of Officers and Scholarship Ban-quet 2014, Empress Restaurant. 6 p.m. Contact: Julius Soria 722-9958; Perlita Sadorra 227-6780, Cleo Bala Casino 744-5648 november 8, 2014Ilocos Nortenians of America, Coronation Ball of 2014 Grand Queen, Mrs. Ilocos Norte USA. Ala Moana Hotel, 6:30 p.m. Tick-et Cost: $65. Contact: Dwayne Bueno, 808-671-7900.

november 22, 2014Filipino Business Women Asso-ciation and FBWA Foundation’s Kimona Ball and Filipino Business Woman of the Year and scholar-ship awards. Pomaikai Ballroom at Dole Cannery in Iwilei, 6 p.m. Ticket Cost: $50. Contact: Nan-cy Atmospera Walch 778-3832, Lina B. Mercado 382-7751.

november 22, 2014Kalayaan Philippines Internation-al presentation of Miss Philippines

Hawaii USA. Pacific Beach Ho-tel, 6 p.m. Ticket cost: $65. Contact: Ben Pulido, 808-421-9747.

december 3, 2014Filipino Women’s Civic Club of HI and Filipino Business Women Association’s joint Christmas celebration. New Empress Restaurant at Chinese Cultural Plaza. Contact: Bernadette Fajardo 342-8090.

December 6, 2014Hawaii Association of Filipino Travel Agents, Annual Christmas party, Ala Moana Hotel, 6 p.m. Contact: Rose Galanto 808-845-2218.

december 21, 2014Filipino Association of University Women (FAUW), PASKO! At Ho-nolulu Museum of Arts (former Academy of Arts), 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free admission to Pasko and Museum courtesy of Bank of Hawaii’s monthly family Sunday.

Kauai

september 20, 2014Kauai Filipino Women’s Club cel-ebrates 50th anniversary of The Kauai Terno Ball. Kauai Marriott Resorts, Grand ballroom. 6:00 pm Cocktails. For ticket informa-tion, please contact Liza Trindad at (808) 482-0267

Maui

october 18, 2014The Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce Foundation will pres-ent the Maui Fil-Am Heritage Festival® at the Maui Mall from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The Fes-tival celebrates Filipino American History Month and also pro-motes business and shares the rich Filipino culture and heritage.

Big island

october 4, 2014The Big Island community kicks off Filipino American heritage month with a barrio fiesta at the University of Hawaii Hilo. The event is from 11 am to 2 pm.

october 26, 2014To honor Filipino American heri-tage month, the Hilo community will be hosting the Hilo Filipino Festival at the Mooheau Park and Bandstand in downtown Hilo from 10 am to 3 pm.

october 29, 2014The University of Hawaii-Hilo’s Filipino student association, the Bayanihan Club will hold a Cul-tural Program called “The Driz-zle” at the UH-Hilo Residence Halls from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Contact Mil Asuncion at [email protected].

compiled by Edna aliKPala

Saturday, October 25, 2014Sheraton Waikiki Hotel

The Filipino Community Center (FilCom Center)

will hold its12th Annual “Bayanihan Gala Dinner”

on Saturday, October 25, 2014 at Sheraton Waikiki Hotel to help the Center

continue its important educational, cultural and social programs, as well as

perpetuate the Filipino culture in Hawai’i and beyond.

In honor of Filipino American History Month, we celebrate over a century of contributions

of Filipino-Americans to Hawai’i and the United States. Filipinos are one of the fastest growing ethnic groups here and have reached a number of

that we celebrate today.

In keeping with the bayanihan (together) spirit, this event will pay tribute to:

Justice Mario Ramil

Former Supreme Court Justice & Community AdvocateIntroduced by appointing Governor John Waihee

Maria a. f. Etrata

Philanthropist & Community Servant Introduced by Mayor Kirk Caldwell

Justice simeon acoba

Retiring Supreme Court Justice & Educator Introduced by appointing Governor Ben Cayetano

We acknowledge their lifetime achievements

and the strong influence they have contributed to the Filipino community and to the local

culture of our Islands.

Celebrate our 12th year with us! Become a partner of the FilCom Center

and the Filipino community during this landmark year.

Please complete and

sign the enclosed Sponsorship Form and return it no later than Friday,

September 12, 2014.

We have been very fortunate and blessed with your overwhelming and continued support of FilCom Center over the years

and for that, we are very grateful.

Mabuhay and Aloha,

Rosemarie V. MendozaCommittee Chair

a.J. halagaoCommittee Co-Chair

sherry Menor-McnamaraCommittee Co-Chair

12th Annual Bayanihan Gala Dinner

For more information contact:

Rosemarie V. Mendoza, Committee Chair (808) 371-3902/[email protected]

Joanne corpuz, Event Coordinator (808) 382-5092/[email protected]

arceli Rebollido (808) 680-0451/[email protected]

if you would like to have your event listed on this statewide calendar, please contact Edna alikpala at 808 262 3669 or

email her at alikpalaedna@ hotmail.com


An Islamic state is one that is governed according to Sharia law. The rulers are also the spiritual leaders of the nation and Islamic laws reign supreme over secular laws. While the adoption and implementation of Shari’ah is believed to be a precursor to the establishment of an Islamic state, it is not tantamount to extremism or Muslim fundamentalism. In the Philippines, Muslims continue to be a minority group when compared to the 80% of the entire population who are considered Christians. However, in Malaysia and Indonesia which are our closest Asian neighbors, they are predominant. Malaysia officially asserts that it is not an Islamic State. However, its Constitution declares Islam as the official religion. Malaysian law and juris-prudence are based on English Common Law. However, Sharia courts and the Noble Quran are used in the determination of rights and duties of its Muslim citizens and have application over family relations and religious practices. Significantly, Indonesia despite having the world’s largest Muslim population of 225 million is considered a secular state. President Susilio Bambang Yudhoyono recently denied that Indonesia is an Islamic State. Indeed, its Consti-tution is silent about the adoption of Islam as the state religion and govern-ment recognizes and respects the free exercise of all religious faiths. However, there is evidence showing a gradual expansive application of Sharia Law to more local communities. Because of this steady shift towards conservative Islam, there is a growing fear for Indonesian intolerance for its country’s minority Christian groups. As the only Christian nation in Asia, the Philippines is prohibited from favoring any religion and the strict separation of the Church and State and any of its instrumentality or subdivision i s g u a r a n t e e d a s a n indispensable imperative for the free exercise of religious beliefs and worship. In exp la in ing these

constitutional rights and l ibert ies, the Phi l ippine Supreme Court declared in Estrada v. Escritor (455 Phil 411, 2003) that: “If government rel ies upon religious beliefs in formulating public policies and morals, the result would require conformity to what some might regard as religious programs or agenda. The non-believers would therefore be compelled to conform to a standard buttressed by a religious belief that is anathema to religious freedom.” As a result, Government will make it appear that all those whose beliefs are contrary to a favored religious faith within a defined territory are second class citizens. Stated in other words, Government must act for secular purposes and in ways that have primarily secular effects. T h e C o n g r e s s i s prevented from passing a law recognizing a Church divorce valid or prohibiting the use of contraceptive devices on religious considerations, unless prior amendments to the existing fundamental law are made.The resurgence of Islamic fundamentalism received worldwide attention during the overthrow of the Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi in 1979, in a revolution that marked the ascendancy of Ayatollah Khomeini. With the rise of Islamic radicalism, terrorism entered a new phase that was fueled by a religious fanaticism inspired by the independent reasoning and interpretation of Islamic laws by mujtahids or authoritative jurist scholars who acted as guardians of religious doctr ines from harmful western influences. Part of the planning and training for the 9/11 terrorists’ attack was done in the Philippines. Mohamed Atta, one of the hijackers, had made repeated trips to the Philippines. The forerunner of the 9/11 attacks was known as the Bojinka plot that was funded by Osama Bin Laden who was married to a Filipina, to blow up 12 airliners en route to from Asia to the U.S., which was uncovered by Manila police authorities in 1995.

Nur Misuari, a secular nationalist advocated for an autonomous Musl im reg ion in M indanao in accordance with the 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the Philippine Constitution, which culminated in the 1996 GRP-MNLF Final Peace Agreement. On the other hand, Hashim Salamat, the founder of the MILF was religiously oriented. He fought for secession and independence of Muslim Mindanao and the organization of an Islamic State. Abu Sayyaf Group and Al Qaeda connections go far back in the 1980s, during the recruitment of Filipino Muslims who were trained in terrorist strongholds in Afghanistan to battle the Soviet invaders. The ASG had strong links with the MILF founded by Salamat. MILF sent about 600 of its freedom fighters to training in Al Qaeda camps in Afghanistan funded by Osama Bin Laden. In 2000 MILF leadership declared a jihad against the enemies of Islam in the Philippines when its cessation of hostilities agreement with the Government signed in July 1997 was abolished by President Joseph Estrada. The finalization of the c o m p r e h e n s i v e p e a c e agreement between the Aquino Government and the MILF that was brokered by Malaysia for the creation of Bangsamoro to supplant the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and the establishment of a separate and distinct justice system applicable to all Muslim Filipinos anchored upon the supremacy of Sharia Law and the Quran is considered the crowning glory of efforts began by Hashim Salamat and completed by Mohagher Iqbal, the MILF peace panel

chief negotiator. It is unfortunate that P r e s i d en t B en i g no C . Aqu ino I I I r e fu ses t o allow the entire country from actively participating in the peace process by expediently claiming that this Comprehensive Agreement and the ensuing Bangsamoro Basic Law does not require constitutional amendments that must be approved and ratified by all of his “bosses” in a national referendum.

By PERfEcto R. yasay, JR.

ISLAMIC SUB-STATE IN SOUTHERNPHILIPPINES

After successfully practicing law in the Philippines and the United States, “Jun” served as Chairman of the Philippine Securit ies and Exchange Commission under President Fidel V. Ramos. He is currently Chairman of the Board of the Philippine Christian University in Manila, and a member of the Board of Governors of the Filipino Community Center. Yasay, along with his wife Cecile and daughter Stephanie, is a resident of Honolulu.


make a positive impact in the world,” he added. This defining moment is one of many that Elefante reflects have shaped him into who he is today. They form a conviction, a purposeful mindset that sets Elefante apart from other 28-year-old and which gives one the impression that he is old beyond his years. The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Honolulu, Bishop Larry Silva affirmed this as he recalls that Elefante stood out from their first meeting: “I met Brandon on one of my visits to St. Elizabeth Parish, Aiea, and I knew right away that there was something special about him. He had a sense of humble leadership

from school for one month but I had to keep up with my schoolwork. When I got a little better, I worked throughout that summer. After seven months, I had to go through another surgery to remove the metal bar,” he explained. Burdened with excru-ciating pain, Brandon laid awake many nights as he clung to his Faith and the promise, that in the end, things will turn out right. “That experience made me a stronger person. I am so grateful to be alive. I feel that having gone through that experience, I was determined that my life should count for something, that I somehow need to

“They put a metal bar inside my rib cage to coax my body to have normal alignment. It would have been easier if I was younger. But because my body was already developed, I can remember the pain was unbearable. I had to learn everything anew. I could not walk a few paces without leaning against a wall,” he recalled.To provide a context of his life at that time, Elefante explains that he was then a full time high school student (a junior) at Aiea High school, and working part time as a bus boy/dish washer at Anna Miller’s Restaurant in Aiea. “I was on medical leave

thE nEXtgEnERation

EMERgEs

By BEnnEttE EsPinEli Misalucha

Fil-Am Courier Managing Editor

our cover....

Our cover story subject, Brandon Elefante was photographed in front

of Honolulu Hale by our talented photographer James Ramos. He can be reached at james@

jamesramosphotography.com.

Cover concept by Noah Felipe of OrigMedia.

Mahalo to Jeff Orig of www.origmedia.com

honolulu’s district 8 council Member:

Brandon Elefante

When he was but 17 years old, Brandon Elefante faced one of the defining moments of his young life as he recovered from major surgery. A few months earlier, he had been diagnosed with a physical deformity, pectusex cavatum or colloquially known as “cave-in chest” where the upper torso produces a sunken appearance. Doctors say that if left alone, the condition may eventually impair circulation or heart function. To correct the condition, the patient needs to undergo two major operations with a lot of therapy in between. The deformity is usually discovered early and the child undergoes surgery at a young age. But in Brandon’s case, because his condition was not diagnosed until he was well into his teens, the treatment was more painful and risky.

campaign volunteers


And no one could be prouder of him than the two people who have raised him from birth: his grand-parents, Adolfo and Agustina Elefante of Pearl City. Although the couple was blessed with five children, Brandon is their only grandchild. “Since I am the only one in my generation, I am told that the last name dies with me if I have no son,” he laughed as he explained, “just my luck, I may have all girls.” Adolfo, who is now 81 years old, is from Santiago, Ilocos Sur while Agustina is 80 and although she was raised in Spreckelsville, Maui, has roots from Sinait, Ilocos Sur. The couple met on Oahu when Adolfo noticed Agustina was an “attractive woman who was a hard worker”. They have been married for 55 years. Brandon’s mom, Divina, is their youngest child. Elefante is quite open about the circumstances of his birth. “My mom was 20 years old, unmarried, was a store clerk, with a high school education and living with her parents when she

and care for what he was doing. He seemed anxious to make others succeed as well. That intuition proved to be reality, and Brandon has been a real asset to the Stewardship and Develop-ment Committee of the Diocese of Honolulu. He was elected its Chair, and he works very hard to spread the good news to others. When Brandon told me he was running for City Council, I was very happy, since I knew he would bring great integrity and vision to the position.” Throughout his young life, Elefante has made choices based on this sense of purpose. And of all his choices thus far, the one with the greatest potential impact would appear to be his decision to enter politics. Come January, Elefante wil l step up as a new member of the Honolulu City Council after beating a full complement of more seasoned advocates during the last Primary Election.He will represent Council District 8 which covers most parts of Aiea, Pearl City and Waipahu.

found out she was pregnant with me. In times of crises, the family usually steps out. My famiy supported my mom unconditionally.” “My grandfather, who was working then as a butcher at the Hickam commissary, f i l ed for retirement the day I was born. He knew my mom did not have the resources so he volunteered to babysit me.” Born in 1986 on Oahu, Elefante confesses hisbirth certificate did not even list his father’s name. He has never met his father and does not feel compelled

to find him. “My mom sometimes tells me that I have his traits, but I am not really sure.” Elefante credits his grandparents for raising him in a “loving, nurturing and str ict household .” He said there was strong focus on education and his grandparents inculcated in him the love of learning. His grandparents also dragged him to Filipino community events and functions as a little boy where he learned to perform. He laughingly relates how he used to sing Ilocano songs like “Manang

Biday.” ”Of course, that all changed when I turned 10 and was not so cute anymore,” he laughed. Elefante recalls that his grandparents were strict to a fault. His curfew was at 9 p.m. and his social activities were carefully monitored. “For every infraction, I was duly punished. Sometimes I would be grounded for two weeks; sometimes my allowance was withheld; or I would have limited access to phone or internet.” The first hint of Elefante’s potential as a media star

Brando during typhoon haiyan relief efforts event Brandon’s family and relatives

campaign volunteers: (l to r) Richard honda, Jocelyn agus-tin, Janet honda


mani fested at Gustav Webling Elemen-tary, where he was a mainstay in the Webling Broadcast (WBC). He was also selected as Student of the Year in sixth grade. Elefante went on to attend Aiea Intermediate and Aiea High School. He led a balanced life of academics a n d e x t r a - c u r r i c u l a r activities. Active in sports, he played volleyball and golf, and was in band. It was in high school, however, that he started to develop an interest in polit ics. Elefante consistently served

as an officer in student government. When it was time for college, he chose to go to St. Mary’s College in Northern California on a full academic scholarship. He initially started as a Political Science major but switched to Economics and Business Administration. “I enjoyed economics, so that was an easy choice. I also chose business, because I had this notion which I carry with me even today, that I want to own my own company someday.” He admitted that at that

point in his life, like many young people, he was not sure what career he would like to pursue. He knew he wanted to get a diploma so he at least accomplished that. He also thought that coming back to work in Hawaii was not an option. He had plans to stay and work in San Francisco for a few years. So after graduation, he applied and was offered a position selling copiers and office supplies in the San Francisco Bay Area. But he negotiated for a starting date of July so he could take

a two month vacation back to the Islands. “Essentially, I was supposed to tie up loose ends and bring the rest of my stuff to California.” The longer he stayed in Hawaii, however, the stirrings in his heart grew louder, insisting that he needed to stay. “Out of nowhere, I called my friend who works at Damien High School, and asked whether there was an opening for a teaching position. Apparently there was one, so that was how I got introduced to teaching.” “It was less money, but I figured I could save some by living at home. It was an opportunity to stay close to family. The decision was entirely mine. My grandparents would have supported it either way.” That teaching position was for a new curriculum: “World Religion, Morality and Social Justice.” It was almost heaven-sent since it seemed tailor-made for Elefante’s interests. But alas, it was not meant to be for Elefante to conquer the classroom world. “I really thought I could be a teacher. But I struggled. I was not trained to be an educator. I found classroom management d i f f icu l t . These kids were not much older than me. So you can understand the issue of exerting authority.” Elefante thinks that experience at Damien High School grounded him. “I learned patience, humility, planning and organizing and formulating messages.” So after a year, Elefante left Damien H.S and went back to the drawing board. He even moved back to Berkley, California, just in case he made a mistake about his decision to stay in Hawaii. He hanged around

the home of a favorite Uncle in Central California and sent out his resume. But after two months with no prospects in sight, he decided to go back to Hawaii. “It was the low point of my life. I turned inward and dug deeper: what is it that motivates me?” Elefante felt that more education may provide at least some of the answer. So he applied to Chaminade’s MBA program and got in. He is the first and only member of his family to have completed a post-graduate degree. There is a Filipino saying that one does not seek one’s destiny, but it will just fall into place if it was meant for you. “At that time, Senator Will Espero needed an aide during the 2010 legislative session and I was available.” And what a world it turned out to be. The fast and hectic pace of the legislative process appealed to Elefante. “I loved it! I was on to something.” As the 2010 Legislature drew to a close, Elefante knew without a shadow of a doubt, that in politics, he had found a home. Like many part time legislative staffers, Elefante trudged to the unemploy-ment office at the close of the legislative session. Since he was still in graduate school, money was tight. And for Elefante, theexperience left a bitter taste in his mouth. “I did not like the feeling of being dependent. It did not sit well with the values I was raised. I knew I needed to get back on my feet and I was resolved more than ever to get another job.” So while he went to classes to complete course work for his post graduate degree, he worked at the golf course as a store clerk. It was a little uncomfortable when he would see his former

When i was a babycampaign team meeting My friends’ kids in Pearl city


students at Damien playing at the course. “I wondered what they were thinking that their old teacher may have had a stroke of bad luck. It was a little embarrassing.” He later found a job at the Pacific Business Center at UH where he stayed until he was hired by Council Member Breene Harimoto. All that paid off when he graduated with his MBA in 2011. “I first met Breene at an Aiea Neighborhood Board meeting in 2010. At that time, there was a vacancy on the Aiea board, and in my desire to serve my community, I decided to step up to fill the vacant slot. I had to give a speech as part of the process. Fortunately, the board members were convinced of my good intentions and I was approved. Breene, who was then working for Council Member Gary Okino, was in the room and he approached me and introduced himself,” Elefante says of his first meeting with his current boss. It may be recalled that Council member Gary Okino was termed out and his aide, Harimoto ran unopposed for that seat. After his election, Harimoto sought out the earnest young man who had impressed him a year before. Elefante knew Harimoto was giving him a golden ticket working at the Council: “I am grateful to Breene for giving me the opportunity. I was 24 and so young, but he really believed in me. I

have worked with him for four years now and I admire how he looks at things. He is a man of integrity, a man of faith and he is guided by his principles.” Breene Harimoto is equal ly effusive about Elefante. “From the moment I met him, I can see the political interest that spark in his eyes. Over the course of time, what really won me over was that I realized his heart is good. I was particularly looking for that quality, someone who is doing the good things for the right reasons. All the ingredients are there with Brandon: honorable, good heart, high integrity. All of my hunches about him very validated in the four years we worked together.” In h i s pos i t i on as legislative aide at the Council, Elefante got to see up close and personal, the way government works. He has seen how simple initiatives have made a difference in people’s lives. He became involved in several of these initiatives and developed an appreciation for the role of government. Harimoto said Elefante listens to advice. And what is that advice? “Never lose your way. Keep your Faith in what you are doing. Do not seek for glory for yourself.” The best validation from Elefante’s current boss? “He’s ready!”,Harimoto enthusiastically exclaims. As E le fan te marks the time preparing for the opening of his council office, he stays involved

in community matters. He is active in the Hawaii Fil ipino Jaycees whose members have become his close friends. “I have come full circle with being comfort-able wi th my cultural identity. I confess that during my teen years, I went through a period of denial, similar to the journey of so many Filipino-Americans before me. But when I became involved in the Jaycees, when I started to attend Filipino functions, I grew to better appreciate my culture. I am proud of my culture, my heritage and the values I have been taught. Now it’s my mission to help others embrace theirs.” Yes, 28 may be young in Earth years. But the defining moments which Elefante experienced throughout his life have given him the wisdom, the depth and the insight to make critical decisions he will definitely face at the City Council. T h e u n f o l d i n g o f E l e f an t e ’s na r ra t i ve , his political story bears watching.

1) What makes you get up every morning to do service to the community?

What motivates me every morning is knowing that I can have the ability to make a positive impact and make a difference in someone’s life.

2) Who are your role models? Please explain why. My role models are: - My grandparents and mother (taught me the values

of hard work, respect, and to love others.) - Gandhi (A selfless man who advocated for peace and

non-violence). I had the opportunity to visit various historic Gandhi locations throughout India.

- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (A leader who fought for equality among every American, no matter what your race was.)

- Councilmember Breene Harimoto (My boss who is a humble servant that always puts others first before himself.)

- My teachers (From pre-school to graduate school, all of my teachers have taught me important lessons to help make me into the person I am today.)

3) Philosophically, what should be government’s role in our lives?

Government should be the bridge for assisting people with general public welfare issues that have an effect on our lives. Government should always do its best to serve, protect, and look out for the best interests of people.

4) What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the city council?

The biggest challenge for the City Council is ensuring that we can continue to provide effective core services to our residents on limited amount of resources (financial and labor). Key issues that come to mind are: a lack of affordable housing, homelessness, transportation/pedestrian safety, sustainability, etc.

5) any aspirations past city council? My primary focus is to do my best to represent and

serve the people of Aiea, Pearl City, Waipahu on the City Council and our entire City.

6) What changes in your life do you anticipate now that you will soon be in office?

Adjusting to the role of public life and finding a balance with my daily schedule of activities.

7) What is your advice to those aspiring to enter politics?

Work hard, be positive, and be willing to listen and have an open mind to ideas. Councilmember Harimoto also shared with me to “never lose your way and always stay grounded.”

8) are there people you wish to thank for taking you this far?

I’m thankful and grateful to God for giving this opportunity to serve others, my family (especially my mother and grandparents), friends, supporters, my team of campaign volunteers, the voters, and to The Fil-Am Courier.

a conVERsation WithBRandon ElEfantE

grandparents (adolfo & agustina)My mother, divina Elefante.


finding, and it was on the pro-gram side, not the fiscal side. The previous year, there had been 22 adverse audit findings. Tony’s work is held in high regard by accounting profes-sionals. Last year, the National Association for State Communi-ty Service Programs (NASCSP) sent two of its leading trainers to Hawaii to conduct training sessions for local Community Action Agencies. One of the trainers is an accountant who regularly conducts these pro-grams throughout the country. He and Tony “talked shop” and he asked Tony for Tony’s new comprehensive spreadsheet for Community Service Block Grants to use as a national model for Community Action throughout the United States. Tony’s strong moral com-pass and fidelity to our fidu-ciary responsibilities helped rebuild the fiscal integrity of OCS. Ironically, Tony fell ill shortly after we received a clean bill of fiscal health from the State auditors. It gave him very little time to bask in triumph and enjoy the fruits of his hard work. Tony will be remembered for his disciplined approach to work. He was strict and made tough decisions to keep everyone fiscally responsible and accountable. Yet, he was a nurturing boss who helped his staff learn how to improve the quality of financial manage-ment that OCS produced. No description of Tony Sagayadoro would be complete if it failed to address his role as a community leader and organ-transplant recipient. Thirteen years ago, Tony

cheated death after receiving a pair of transplanted kidneys from a young donor who per-ished accidental death. Tony’s compassion for the young do-nor’s grieving family led him to reach out to them, forming a lasting bond of friendship that brought some comfort to them, knowing that a part of their son lived inside the body of a good and decent man, someone who was a worthy recipient of their son’s legacy. “He lives inside me,” Tony often said with deep humility, and it was this belief that im-bued him with a commitment to carry on and live his life in service to others. He lived with the deepest gratitude for the young donor who gave him a gift of life. Tony knew the odds of not living long enough to see his dreams and aspirations come to fruition. But he lived with-out fear, crunching all that he had hoped to experience and accomplish in the bonus time given to him. Every day was a step closer to the rugged edge of his mortality. He was keenly aware of time as his biggest foe, but he was always grateful for each day as a precious gift from a loving God. Tony became very active in promoting acceptance of or-gan donations and transplants among the Filipino community in Hawaii. He was a huge champion of the issue, re-lentlessly sharing information and insights into the world of victims of kidney diseases. He made people understand the vital need for organ donations to save lives, just as his life was spared because someone

sagayadoro named dliR Employee

of the yearBy Mila Kaahanui

cared enough to sign up as an organ donor. He went on radio and passionately talked about resources and opportunities to empower the community, particularly targeting young generations of Filipinos. As a direct result of Tony’s personal efforts, some 35% of Filipinos in Hawaii who have drivers’ li-censes are now organ donors. Before, the figure was about 5%. Tony also worked with members of the Legislature to enact new laws to make organ donation easier. For those of us who knew him these past few years as a colleague at the State Office of Community Services where he served as our senior ac-countant, we came to know and respect him for his abiding love for his family, his honesty and integrity, and his dedicated service to the community. Tony loved bringing his favorite potluck dish, home-cooked pork gisantes, for ev-eryone to enjoy at celebratory birthday lunches in the office. In some unguarded moments, he would candidly talk about his wife as the love of his life. We loved his Monday morning sto-ries of babysitting his grandson over the weekend, watching him grow and teaching him new skills. How he overdosed on the simple joy of being a grandfather or simply being called “Papa.” To say that Tony loved his family, especially his grandson, is a glaring understatement. Family meant the world to him. Soon after enduring his hospitalization in September 2013, Tony did not think twice about joining his family for a trip to Disneyland, especially if it meant spending time with his beloved grandson. Despite his fragile health and advice by his physician to rest and rebuild

EXclusiVE to thE couRiER

Editor’s Note: As the Courier is going to press, we have been informed that Filipino com-munity leader Antonio “Tony” Sagayadoro has been posthu-mously named as Employee of the Year by the State of Hawaii’s Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. We are publishing here a portion of the nomination as well as his memoriam written by his boss and mentor, Mila Kaaha-nui. Kaahanui, the former Mila Medallon, is a former Editor of the Fil-Am Courier.

Jade Butay, deputy director of dliR; Rina sagayadoro (wife of tony sagayadoro), cheryl Sagayadoro Luga (daughter), Mila Kaahanui (Executive Director of Office of Community Ser-vices) and dwight takamine (director of dliR).

Antonio L. (“Tony”) Sagay-adoro was hired in 2011 as the Senior Accountant at the Office of Community Services to “clean up” the financial man-agement of grant funds and to develop and implement strict financial controls. Shortly before he was hired, audit findings reflected serious weaknesses in the in-ternal controls at OCS. Under Tony Sagayadoro, OCS began requiring better documentation and justification of expenditures by OCS service providers and other grantees. Under Tony’s reforms, financial records began to be kept on a better program-by-program basis, and he made sure that they were much more accurate and clearly written than before. Tony’s new procedures helped ensure that there would be easily traceable audit trails for OCS expenditures. In the first audit of OCS af-ter Tony came on board, there was only one adverse audit the family during happier times.

his health, nothing could pre-vent Tony from experiencing unbridled joy of being in a fam-ily vacation with his precious grandson. After he returned from the trip, he said in glorious fashion, with his usual affable smile, “the trip was great! I spent time with my grandson and the rest of my family. I’m definitely glad I went.” Tony was a regular an-nouncer in his “spare time” on KNDI, providing much-need-ed leadership on everything important to Hawaii’s Filipino community – from organ do-nations to politics to relief for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. Antonio “Tony” Sagayadoro passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 3, 2014. He left us with gifts and lessons learned. He instilled in us the importance of overcoming chal-lenges, of leading life the right way, losing oneself in service to others, seizing every mo-ment or chance at happiness and living life to the fullest. Winning the game of life is not about taking what we can get, but it’s about giving what we can give in the limited time we have to touch another life and make our corner of the world a better place.


I am going to start this column with a few questions that can be answered with one simple word, idea or concept: What is one action or entity that all of us individual beings or entities have, will do, or have done already? What is that act that may be calculated or impulsive; may give us control and power or perhaps reveal vulnerability and weakness; or may give credence to what we say or may take away? Let me give you a hint: it results in an action, a feeling, a thought. All of us do it every day; conscious or unconscious, we have to, in order to move forward or backward in our lives. If you have not yet guessed, the answer is: we all make “Choices”. Here are some of my favorite quotes on the subject matter: “Be miserable. Or motivate yourself. What has to be done, it’s always your choice.” (Wayne Dyer). “It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Harry Potter #2). “Choose well. Your choice is brief, and yet endless.” - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Our lives are a never ending stream of choices, even when we think we don’t have too many options

to choose, we still have a choice. Some choices seem insignificant on their own, but in the end of our life experience, these small choices somehow contribute to a whole life. Other choices can feel overwhelming, and you don’t always realize when you make them what the consequences will be—how they’ll shape your life experience. Why not focus then on choosing to be healthy, to be positive, to be happy? Easier said than done one might say? Well at least we all have that choice. I would like to site an inspirational essay called “Just for Today” that has been on many websites, articles, and books. I personally found this essay from Dale Carnegie’s book “How to stop Worrying and

Start Living” which was first published in 1948. Carnegie credits the essay to a Sibyl F. Partridge, where it was linked to an article published in 1880. I would like to suggest while you are reading it to exchange the word “will” for the words “choose to”; just seems to be have even a more empowering effect.

“Just for Today”

1. Just for Today, I will try to live through this day only, and not tackle my whole life-problem at once. I can do some things for twelve hours that would appall me if I felt I had to keep them up for a lifetime.

2. Just for Today, I will be Happy. This assumes that what Abraham Lincoln said is true, that “most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” Happiness is from Within; it is not a matter of Externals.

3. Just for Today, I will Adjust myself to what Is, and not try to Adjust everything to my own desires. I will take my family, my business, and my luck as they come, and fit myself to them.

4. Just for Today, I will take care of my Body. I will exercise it, care for it, and nourish it, and not abuse it nor neglect it; so that it will be a perfect machine for my will.

5. Just for Today, I will try to strengthen my mind, I will study. I will learn something useful, I will not be a mental loafer all day. I will read something that requires effort, though and concentration.

6. Just for Today, I will exercise my Soul. In three ways, to wit:

(a) I will do somebody a good turn and not get found out. If anybody knows of it, it will not count.

(b) I will do at least two th ings I don ’ t want to do, as William James suggests just for exercise.

7. Just for To-day, I will be agreeable. I wil l look as well as I can, dress as becomingly as possible, talk low, act courteously, be liberal with flattery, criticize not one bit nor find fault with anything, and not try to regulate nor improve anybody.

8. Just for Today, I will have a Program. I will write down just what I expect to do every hour. I may not follow it exactly, but I’ll have it. It will save me from the two pests Hurry and Indecision.

9. Just for Today, I will have a quiet half hour, all by myself, and relax. During this half hour, some time, I will think of

your choices:

“Just for today”

God, so as to get a little more perspective to my life.

10. Just for Today, I will be Unafraid. Especially I will not be afraid to be Happy, to enjoy what is Beautiful, to love and to believe that those I love love me.

Choose to live, Choose life, Choose love.

Next time, more insights into exploring the self. Please feel free to contact me through my website at www.alspsy.com

Alfred A. Sison, MA, LMFT, PsyD; “Dr. Al” is a licensed clinical psychologist with a subspec ia l i ty l i cense in marriage and family therapy. He serv ices ind iv idua ls , 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.

By: dR. alfREd a. sison

“Be miserable. Or motivate yourself. What has to be done, it’s always your choice.”- Wayne Dyer


By dR. chRistoPhER toRtoRa, M.d.Medical Director of

Hawaiian Eye Center

September is designated Healthy Aging Month by the American Academy of Oph-thalmology to raise aware-ness about protecting your vision as you get older. The aging process and lifestyle choices can greatly affect your eyes. Conditions that can sneak up on you as you age could lead to vision loss and even blindness. Some of the most com-mon eye diseases that in-crease in risk as you age include:

• cataracts—clouding of the eye’s lens, which distorts light required for the retina to pro-cess images, resulting in worsening vision over time.

• glaucoma—damage to the optic nerve due to buildup in pressure inside the eye.

• age-related macular degeneration (AMD)—deterioration of the mac-ula (the retina’s small, central area responsible for clear vision) as a re-sult of protein deposits or abnormal blood ves-sel growth in the retina.

• diabetic retinopathy—damage to the retina’s blood vessels, creating abnormal swelling and bleeding that can affect vision over time.

The most important thing to do is get your vision checked regularly because many age-related eye dis-eases have no noticeable symptoms until major dam-age has already been done. If you are 40 and over, you should have a comprehen-

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.”

sive dilated eye exam every two to three years from your eye care professional. If you are 60 and over or have diabetes, you should get an eye exam once a year. Early detection and treatment is key to keeping your vision safe, but lifestyle choices you make can also have a huge impact on your eyes. Lifestyle habits that can help protect your vision include:

• Eating “eye” foods low in fat and high in an-tioxidants (such as leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits and fish) as part of a healthy, balanced diet

• Staying active and exercising regularly, which helps you main-tain a healthy weight and lowers your risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol

• Re f ra in ing f rom smoking because stud-ies have shown it greatly increases your risk of developing many eye diseases

• Wearing sunglasses labeled “100% protec-tion” or “UV 400” when-ever you are outside to protect your eyes from damaging UV rays


Born in the Philippines, VirGie CruzADA has lived on the island of Kauai since 1972. A mother of three adult children, she is a resident of Hanamaulu with her husband, Bobby. She is a retired teacher who devotes a lot of time helping the community, including serving as president of the Kauai Visayan club and Vice-President of the Congress of Visayan Organizations.

the congress of Visayan organizations (coVo), the umbrella organization of all the Visayan clubs in hawai‘i, held its 27th annual statewide convention on august 16, 2014 at the hibiscus Room of the ala Moana hotel in honolulu. Evelyn Basnillo (center), Vice President of the Kauai Visayan club, was awarded as “outstanding Member of the year” during the gala night. Evelyn rightly deserved the award as her numerous contributions to the club are noteworthy. Joining Evelyn onstage to present her with certificates of appreciation are (Left to Right): Vice Speaker John Mizuno, Representative Romy cachola, Representative and us congressional candidate Mark takai, and to the right of Evelyn was Philippine consul general gina a. Jamoralin, May Mizuno, and coVo foundation President Jane clement.

Baby Joshua fernandez, safe and warm in the loving arms of Rev. father gerry somera, a close family friend of proud parents Vaughn and sandra fernandez, was welcomed into christendom by his family and friends on the day of his baptism. As a special favor to the family, Fr. Gerry flew from Oahu to Kauai where he was formerly assigned as parish priest to officiate the sacrament of baptism. delighted family members and godparents surrounded baby Joshua and wished him well to follow the path of righteousness.

Jacob danley, a third grader at Kilauea Elementary school, added a milestone to his young life as he experienced his first holy communion (one of the seven sacraments that indoctrinates catholics) at st. catherine’s catholic church in Kapa‘a. he was born in cebu, Philippines, but has made Kilauea home with his parents for many years now. Jacob was joined by his mom Regina danley and his paternal grandparents.

Who says ladies of the Kauai Visayan club (KVc) are all work and no play? glamorous looks and colorful personalities blended together in an atmosphere of love and friendship that permeated as the ladies posed elegantly. (left to Right): Evelyn Basnillo (Vice President), Ely afos (wife of KVc auditor alfonso afos), Virgie cruzada (President), Eve Baring (assistant treasurer), Jocelyn cubangbang (KVc dancer), and tessie Estenzo (Membership committee chairperson)

Kauai Visayan club members carol Mapue, Zosimo Mata, and Eve Baring couldn’t take their hands and eyes off of the winning boat during the interactive session of the congress of Visayan organizations (coVo) convention. they combined their artistic talents and focused their energy and enthusiasm in putting together a symbolic boat using whatever materials were made available to them. Their finished product didn’t go unnoticed as their creation was declared the winner.


Marisa Aroy. I attended informative sessions like F i l ip inos and po l i t i ca l agency by D.C. based policy consultant, Gem Daus. I also had the opportunity to present with fel low colleagues Dr. NikiLibarios, Dr. Robert Bachini and Ph.D. student Raju De Sai, on the status of Filipinos in K-12 and Higher Education in Hawai`i. I was also honored to participate in the author’s reception where I shared experts from our book “Bold Dream, Uncommon Valor: The Story of Florentino Das” co-authored by Dr. Serafin Colmenares and Dr. Cecilia Noble. As I write this column I must always remember to treasure the time I spend with my FANHS family.

Thank God I’m Filipino

presenters, and stories people shared about the impact Uncle Fred had on their lives. We were always reminded to ground our hope for the futurein our past and always acknowledge the work of those who came before us. As a professor, I travel to numerous conferences, but there is nothing like the FANHS conference. FANHS is like coming home. Over 400 Filipinos converged representing 30 chapters around the nation. We greet each other like family when we see each. It is the only conference that I’ve ever been to where you’ll find a 7 year-old and 81 year old side by side. Academics and community organizers.Oral historians and researchers. Students and teachers. Everyone has something shareabout the contributions of our Filipino community. During the conference, m a n y p e o p l e a n d presentations inspired me. I listened to keynote speaker retired General Tony Taguba and his national efforts to recognize Filipino World War 2 war veterans. I eagerly watched the premier of the much-ant i c ipa ted documentary “The Delano Manogs” tells the story of farm labor organizer Larry Itliong and a group of farm works who formed the bases of the Cesar Chavez labor movement by film maker

It is easy to see why the Filipino American National Historical Society’s (FANHS) signature t-shirt with the phrase “t.g.i.f: thank god i’m filipino” sells out at its biennial national conference every time. At FANHS conferences, attendees are not only proud to assert their Filipino identity, but they convene to share and learn about their history. FANHS’ mission to preserve and perpetuate Filipino American history came through loud and clear during this year’s four day conference of renowned speakers; presentations on oral histories, community i s sues , resea rch and scholarship; an author’s r e c e p t i o n , c u l t u r a l performances, and a gala banquet. Last month, I attended m y s e v e n t h FA N H S conference in San Diego California. The theme of this year’s conference was “Kapwa: Moving Forward in Unity.” This conference was particularly moving because we were also honoring founding pres ident of FANHS,Alfred Mendoza Jr., my mentorfondly known as “Uncle Fred”, who passed away on December 21, 2013. His spirit was found e v e r y w h e r e a t t h e conference– in sett ing the mood, the words and expressions of the

By PatRicia EsPiRitu halagao

Dr. Patricia espiritu Halagao is a professor of education at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. A former elementary teacher, she now specializes in social studies and multicultural education with an emphasis on Filipino curriculum and pedagogy. She serves on the Hawaii Board of Education. Patricia was raised in Stockton, California, but now lives in Honolulu with her husband, AJ, and two young children.

I just learned that long-time FANHS member and former treasurer, Fran Alayu Womack recently passed away. Her passing reminds us of the importance of talking to our elders to capture their stories. My children are already looking forward to their next FANHS conference, which will be held in New York in 2014. Maybe my 10-year old daughter will present on the oral interview that she

just conducted with her Lola Norma. After all, it will be our children who represent the next generation and carry forward the spirit and action of “thanking God that they are Filipino.” For more information on FANHS, please check out their website: www.fanhs-national.org

“We were always reminded to ground our hope for the future in our past and always acknowledge the work of those

who came before us.”


and as a legal intermediary I see myself as a translator of the law and its language. Serving in this capacity allows me to protect each culture’s identity, their place in our diverse community through harmonious cooperation, and their endeavors for the future. This promise is a constant reminder of the journey I have traveled and will continue to travel. To welcome incoming first year law students, the WSRSL faculty and staff planned a four day orientation earlier this week, which I anxiously participated in. Each day cons i s ted o f essen t i a l workshops, seminars, and networking events with alumni and members of the legal community to acclimate the first year law student (1L) to law school and their future career as an attorney.

As a testament to the school’s popularity, our class of 97 students comprise the largest incoming class in the law school history. R e a l i t y b i t e s . F o r undergraduate and graduate students, aside from tuition, textbooks make up the bulk of school-related fees. Alarming increases in textbooks have persuaded students to purchase used textbooks either through the school bookstore, online retailers such as Amazon and eBay, or seek the generosity of upperclassmen for free hand me downs. As a graduate student, the costs of my required textbooks resulted in spending nearly $800! To simulate the intellectual rigor of the core 1L classes, namely Civi l Procedure, Contracts, and Torts, the faculty organized c lass discussions on various cases, one of them being State of Hawaii vs. Alapai Hanapi pertaining to the issue of criminal trespassing. In one such discussion, the professor asked for the Holding or outcome of the case. Throngs of arms scattered throughout the huge lecture hall instantly shot up, anxiously waiting for an opportunity to be called. On my end, beads of sweat slowly trickled down my forehead and winded their way around my face as I anticipated the professor calling my name. I may finally fall victim, I thought to myself, to the dreaded Socratic method of learning - a teaching methodology named in honor of the Greek philosopher Socrates. This method of teaching, as explained through the website About.com, involved

degrees - one in Philosophy and another in Philippine Language and Literature, I made a vow to go to law school.

the day is almost here. For the curious readers out there, the essential elements that framed this promise are rooted in a particular excerpt found in my personal statement when I initially applied to the WSRSL. Attending law school enab les me to ga the r the necessary too ls in navigating the intricacies of the legal realm. With these sensibilities, I’ll be empowered and equipped wi th the knowledge to al leviate discr iminat ion between and among ethnic groups through my role as an intermediary legal agent. The law is a language unto itself,

Monday, august 25, 2014 at 10 am. At long last - judgment day loomed just beyond the horizon. Normally, this language would be reserved for an ominous event. But not so. It actually is a good milestone. 72 hours. I watched the c lock tick as the time brought me closer and closer to my first day as a law student at the internationally-respected William S. Richardson School of Law (WSRSL) situated in the University of Hawaii - Manoa campus. I was finally going to fulfill a promise.Four yea rs ago, a f t e r graduating from UH Manoa with two Bachelor of Arts

continually asking students question after question in rapid succession in an attempt to reveal innate contradictions in the students’ thoughts and ideas. According to folklore, Socrates, once confronted with the contradictions, would then direct the students “to arrive at a solid, tenable conclusion.” Thus, the website describes this as an essential teaching tool that assists in the refinement of students’ critical thinking, reasoning, and logic skills, enabling them to find “holes in their own theories and then patching them up.” For me, the zenith of the week-long orientation was meeting the members of the Hawaii Supreme Court Bench led by Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald. The most stirring moment was taking the pledge as law students and future attorneys. Soon after, we shook hands wi th the Hawai i Supreme Court bench. At this point, my fellow students and I realized that for the next three years of our lives, we were committed to exploring the fundamental concepts and rules that govern the legal underpinnings of our society. Here we are…the Class of 2017. Watch out World… here we come!

randy Cortez obta ined a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy along with a Bachelor’s Degree in Filipino and Philippine Literature at the University of Hawaii - Manoa. Randy is a Past President of the JCI-Hawaii Filipino Junior Chamber (a.k.a Filipino Jaycees), and also devotes his time to the Knights of Rizal - Hawaii Chapter.

By Randy coRtEZ


The State of Hawaii is the largest producer of papaya in the United States with the Puna District on the Island of Hawaii producing over 90% of the fruit. almost all commercial p a p a y a f a r m e r s i n Punaare fil ipinos or filipino descendants. Many of the older farmers had experience working on the now-closed sugar plantations. Few papaya farmers own their land. Instead, they lease lands. Financing for papaya farming, indeed for most farming in Hawaii, is difficult to obtain so the farmers typically combine their own savings with money borrowed from relatives and friends. Only the largest papaya growers can borrow from the bank. The market for Hawaiian papaya are Japan, Canada, US Mainland, neighbor islands mostly Oahu and on the island. Because papaya is prone to fruitflies, it has to undergo vapor heat or irradiation treatment prior to export (except for Canada).

None of the Filipino papaya farms are large enough to own a treatment facility. In 1992, the papaya farms in Puna were hit by the papaya ringspot virus. Many farms suffered tremendous financial losses and were facing closure. A Filipino scientist from Kohala (on the north end of the island of Hawaii), Dr. Dennis Gonsalves, developed the Rainbow papaya that saved the industry from collapse. Rainbow papaya is a variety that was genet i ca l ly-modified to resist ringspot virus. As Hawaii has become the battleground between agribusiness giants and environmental activists supported by the large organic farming companies, the Filipino papaya farmers have been caught in the crossfire. Some farms have been vandalized with hundreds of trees destroyed. The highly acrimonious debates in both Kauai and Hawaii County, some with racial overtones, lead to heavy restrictions on the use

of GMOs in those Counties. The F i l i p i no f a rme r s organized themselves to protest these attacks ontheir farms. The Hawai i County Council recognized this and exempted them from many of the restrictions. Still, the Filipino farmers joined other farmers to sue the County over the restrictions. At present, the lawsuits continue but the Counties have lost every step so far as safety-testing and regulation of papaya and other GMOs is the responsibility of State and Federal governments. Hurricane Iselle is the latest challenge facing our Filipino papaya farmers. Some farms were totally destroyed as the high winds toppled trees heavy with fruit. Many other farms suffered substantial damage. USDA, in combination with the State and County, is trying to help these farmers through emergency loans and cost-share programs. In spite of these challenges,the Filipinos continue to farm papaya as it isone of the few high-volume crops that starts producing in only one year.

filipinos and the Papaya industry

Dr. Margarita Leyson Hopkins served as the Economic Development Specialist of Hawai‘i County Department of Research and Development for 23 years until her retirement on June 2012. She was in-charge of the Hawaii County’s agriculture program. She had been a Lecturer of theCollege of Business and Economics, University of Hawaii at Hilo, teaching undergraduate courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics and the Hawaiian economy. She has served in various government-related committees and community organizations and received various awards for her services to community organizations.

Further, the capital requirements are relatively low with the major input being the hard work of the farmers.

Papaya remains a major source of income for much of the Filipino community on the Big Island.


candidate for governor, duke aio-

na, his wife Vivian, candidate for lt.

governor Elwin ahu, and his wife Joy ahu

attended the annak ti Batac inter-national’s 2nd annu-

al Queen of Queens coronation

Pageant. the event was held at the Pacif-

ic Beach hotel on september 6.

the annak ti Batac international’s Mrs. Balik-bayan Queen, luz Bagaoisan, on stage during the coronation Pageant on september 6 at the Pacif-ic Beach hotel. she is pictured With dr. nicanor Joaquin, Mrs. imelda Joaquin, and her son, calvin Bagaoisan.

Representative Bob Mcdermott, senator Mike gabbard, Mayor Kirk caldwell, and councilmembers Kymberly Marcos Pine and Ron Menor were joined by the Ew-aBeach community at the “getReadyEwaBeach” 4th annual Emergency Preparedness fair held at Ewa-MakaiMiddle school on saturday, september 6. they helped kick off the fair that helped the community gain important tools to prepare their family, home, school, and business for the next natural/manmade disaster.

lei calingangan is starting a new journey as an archaeologist for Keala Pono archaeological con-sulting, llc based on hawai‘i island where she has roots. lei grew up in the Philippines and on oahu where she was active as an officer of the Kati-punan club at the university of hawai‘i at Manoa. at uhM, she received her B.a. in anthropology and Minor in Philippine language and culture.

Jacque dardeen celebrated her 28th birth-day at the Oceanarium Restaurant at Pacific Beach hotel on sunday, september 7. she celebrated it with her parents, Jun and Vio-leta sadural, sister Valerie sadural, husband Jason dardeen and their son, Jaxson.

Ruel Reyes, Kassandra Pascual, and thadd chang gathered around Kristine san diego in Manoa one last time before she moved to las Vegas, nevada in september to study dentistry at the university of nevada, las Vegas. Kristine is the daughter of Mr. feric and dr. Rita san diego of san diego family dentistry, inc.


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