A recent public talk at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 shed light on the decades-long fight for justice by Filipino veterans of World War II and the role of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye in advocating for their rights.

On February 27, Colin Moore, associate professor in the College of Social Sciences, presented “Soldiers of a Forgotten Empire: Filipino Veterans and the Politics of Denial,” exploring how more than 200,000 Filipino veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces were denied promised benefits under the Rescission Act of 1946.

His talk examined the plight of Filipino veterans within the broader context of U.S. imperialism and the Cold War, while tracing Inouye’s decades-long efforts to secure justice. Letters written by veterans to Inouye reveal their frustration, anger and disappointment.

Moore’s work draws from extensive archival research, including visits to the National Archives and Records Administration, the Clinton Presidential Library, and the Daniel K. Inouye Papers housed in Hamilton Library’s .

The presentation was followed by a discussion among in-person and Zoom attendees, many of whom had personal connections to Filipino veterans who struggled to access promised benefits.

Neil Abercrombie, 东精影业 Regent and former governor, shared his perspective on advocating for Inouye’s redress legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. are also available to researchers at Hamilton Library.

The hybrid event was organized by the and co-sponsored by 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 and the Daniel K. Inouye Institute (DKI). Moore’s research is part of the , supported by the Inouye Institute.

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The Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu visited the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 on January 23, for an official tour of the library鈥檚 , offering a close look at rare materials that illuminate centuries of Philippine history and global connections.

Led by Philippine Consul General Arman Talbo, who took office in March 2025, the delegation of 17 consulate staff members was guided by Philippine Studies Librarian Elena Clariza through selections from the Philippine Rare Collections. Highlights included rare maps of the Philippines dating from the 1500s to the 1700s, Philippine Revolutionary Papers from the Spanish colonial period in the 1800s, and a U.S. military photo album documenting Samar Island in the 1940s.

The Samar album is a joint acquisition of Hamilton Library鈥檚 Russian Collection and Philippine Collection. It documents daily life on the island and U.S. naval operations during World War II, while also reflecting Samar鈥檚 unexpected global ties. Following the Bolshevik Revolution, the island later became a refuge for an estimated 6,000 White Russians—the deposed czar鈥檚 supporters who opposed the Red Soviets and fled Russia after World War II.

Talbo described the visit as “calm, inspiring, and quietly powerful,” noting the personal resonance of the materials. He shared that he may have identified a long-lost ancestor while viewing photographs in the Samar album.

The visit highlighted the international significance of Hamilton Library鈥檚 Philippine Collection and its role in preserving and providing access to historical materials that deepen understanding of Philippine history and its global intersections.

Read more at .

A new production is shining a light on the lives and journeys of Filipinos in Hawaiʻi. “,” directed by J. Lorenzo Perillo, blends movement, music and history into a fast-moving tribute to identity and community. Performances run through November 23, on the Mainstage at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补.

Perillo serves as co-director of the (CPS) and is also an associate professor in the Department of . He created the show in honor of CPS鈥檚 50th anniversary.

“‘Dancing in the Diaspora’ delves into the interconnected lives of Filipinos maneuvering the waters of belonging and exclusion in Hawaiʻi and beyond,” said Perillo.

Stories through dance

The performance moves between hip-hop, street dance, contemporary, Filipino Indigenous styles and ʻori Tahiti (Tahitian dance). Live kulintang (traditional Filipino gong instrument) and Tahitian music set the tone. The dances explore home, identity and the journey of carrying culture across oceans.

for the in-person production at Kennedy Theatre. The production features international and local collaborators such as Mary Chris (Mycs) Villoso, Von Ace Asilo, Angela Sebastian, Ron and Lydia Querian (House of Gongs), Manarii and Nalini Gauthier (Tahiti Mana), Irisgil Viacrusis, Michelle Bisbee, Tyler Kanemori and Evan McCarty.

One of the most meaningful collaborative elements grew out of Villoso鈥檚 artist residency at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 earlier this year, which included workshops with local high schools such as Maryknoll, Farrington and Waipahu. Building on that work, the production features Farrington High School students who have been rehearsing since September with their teacher Michelle Levine Aquino, a recent 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 graduate, to perform a piece rooted in Philippine games and street dance. Aquino also contributes an Ilokano chant that helps open the show.

“If you dig beneath the deep layers of colonization, you find the ways the people of the Pacific are connected through language, food, stories and beliefs,” said Nalini Gauthier. “Dance has been a steady vessel carrying me through this journey of rediscovery and empowerment.”

The production also features a heartfelt dance film showcasing 东精影业鈥檚 custodial staff.

Perillo expressed that the staging is deeply connected to Hawaiʻi鈥檚 social and cultural landscape.

“Filipinos make up one-fourth of Hawaiʻi鈥檚 population, yet there is a clear lack of Filipino representation in education. Representation matters. It鈥檚 critical in strengthening students鈥� self-worth, identities and success.”

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The ancestor spirit represents my deep appreciation to my ancestors, who I feel are always guiding me in life.
—King James Mangoba ()

As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, Hamilton Library鈥檚 and the Center for Philippine Studies at the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 opened , an exhibition linking 1500s colonial maps with tattoos as living archives of Filipino cultural memory, on view through February 2026.

Opening events, held October 15–17, drew more than 100 participants for workshops, talks and live tattoo demonstrations. 东精影业ees explored how Filipinos have used body art and the written word to resist erasure—from rare 16th-century maps and letters from the Philippine Revolution to underground newspapers from the Marcos era, all part of Hamilton鈥檚 Philippine Collection.

Mapping identity through body and archive

Philippine Studies Librarian Elena Clariza opened the program with a presentation on early colonial maps, connecting “fragile maps on paper with living maps of the body—tattoos as archives of ancestral knowledge and cultural memory.”

Guest artists from California鈥檚 Spiritual Journey Tattoo Shop and members of Tatak ng Apat na Alon (Mark of the Four Waves) demonstrated traditional hand poke and tapping tattoo techniques, sharing their nearly 30-year effort to revive Indigenous Filipino tattoo practices.

“In the beginning it was just for us to find our identity, to represent the culture in some way,” said Elle Festin, tattoo artist at Spiritual Journey and a Datu (chief) of the Mark of the Four Waves tribe. “It鈥檚 important to get the tattoos to show the resistance and to revolt against the systematic colonial mentality.”

东精影业 community connects to heritage

For King James Mangoba, a 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 double major in communication & marketing and Hamilton Library social media content creator, the event was a personal and cultural milestone.

“The rice symbolizes my family鈥檚 livelihood of rice farming back in the Philippines. The ancestor spirit represents my deep appreciation to my ancestors, who I feel are always guiding me in life,” he said. “This tattoo is a permanent reminder of where I came from and my appreciation to my ancestors who came before me.”

Doctoral candidate Matthew Melendez, from the , participated in the tattoo sessions. “Receiving knowledge from the Tatak ng Apat na Alon tribe through our cultural portal of batok (tattooing) has profoundly transformed me from within,” he said.

The event was co-sponsored by 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 Center for Southeast Asian Studies and Center for Philippine Studies, and Spiritual Journey Tattoo Shop. To support programs like this at Hamilton Library, visit the .

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Mark of the Four Waves members visit the Philippine Studies section at Hamilton Library.The post Exhibit links Filipino tattoos, maps across centuries first appeared on University of Hawai驶i System News.]]> 225411 /news/2025/10/30/filipino-health-research-event/ Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:24:44 +0000 /news/?p=224667 Students, researchers and the community gathered to share health research and celebrate Filipino American History Month in Hawai驶i.

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More than 80 students, researchers, health professionals and community members gathered on October 18, at Palama Settlement for the 3rd annual Araw ng Saliksik: Health Research Report Back to the Filipino Community. The event was organized by , a group of Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Filipino health researchers, founded by the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 faculty, in partnership with the Hawaiʻi Public Health Institute (HIPHI).

Araw ng Saliksik—Tagalog for “Day of Research”—was created to share studies, stories and ideas that improve the health of Filipinos in Hawaiʻi. It also ensures that research involving Filipinos is conducted with the community and shared back in meaningful, accessible ways.

Honoring heritage through research

Research in the Filipino community is thriving with its own Filipino researchers.
—May Rose Dela Cruz

This year鈥檚 program coincided with the Filipino American History Month theme, “From Quotas to Communities: Filipino American Migration and Movement.” The theme honored the journeys of the first sakadas (Filipino plantation workers) who arrived in Hawaiʻi in 1906 and the continued stories of migration, identity and belonging among Filipino families today.

Photographs of ancestors were placed at the front of the room, inviting attendees to honor those who came before them. Reflective activities encouraged participants to map their families鈥� home provinces in the Philippines and share intergenerational memories and traditions.

The event included remarks from Clemen Montero of the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 , and May Rose Dela Cruz, founder of Pinerds, director of community health research at HIPHI, and associate researcher with the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 .

“Research in the Filipino community is thriving with its own Filipino researchers,” said Dela Cruz. “Conducting research with this community is important, but it鈥檚 just as important to share the data and stories back to them so they can see the fruits of their contributions and feel empowered to be part of the decisions that impact their health.”

Students leading the way in research

Students from Waipahu and Farrington high schools showcased projects on Filipino health and community, followed by undergraduate, graduate and medical students from the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 Department of Public Health Sciences and the , who presented on mental health, caregiving and chronic disease.

Community organizations, including the Hawaiʻi Workers Center, Hawaiʻi Primary Care Association and , also shared resources and information.

The post Filipino health research spotlighted at Araw ng Saliksik first appeared on University of Hawai驶i System News.]]>

University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 alumna India Kawelolani Calso Ching is blending soil science with cultural pride as the newly crowned Miss Oʻahu Filipina. Her journey from studying soil health at the to earning this year鈥檚 Miss Oʻahu Filipina title is a study in personal growth and community.

Ching majored in natural resources and environmental management at CTAHR, with a focus in plant conservation and ecosystem management. However, a soil science class provided new perspectives.

“There’s so much about soils that I never knew before,” Ching said, noting that the class revealed “the chemical, physical, and biological properties of soil” and the “huge diversity of soils that we have here in Hawaiʻi.”

After graduating from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, her newfound interest led to her work as a laboratory technician in the soil health lab. She鈥檚 currently working on an artificial intelligence-driven farm irrigation project.

Challenging herself to grow

Just as she stepped out of her comfort zone to study soil health, Ching also challenged herself to grow entering a pageant for the first time. While many people see pageants as just a beauty contest, she discovered it was much more than that.

“It’s totally about developing your public speaking skills, being more immersed in your culture, and becoming the best version of yourself,” she said.

Her pageant platforms centered on food security and dance, a topic sparked by her CTAHR education. Ching鈥檚 pageant speech highlighted the importance of agriculture and food security, aiming to educate youth and honor the legacy of her great-grandfather, who was a “sakada,” or Filipino plantation laborer who laid the foundation for the Filipino community in Hawaiʻi.

Ching will compete for the Miss Hawaiʻi Filipina title on August 9, representing Oʻahu amid contestants from other islands.

Fall 2024 enrollment at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 surpassed 20,000 students for the first time since 2013. The final enrollment numbers will not be official until the first week of October, but as of September 17, there are 20,012 students enrolled at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, a 4% increase over 2023.

“This milestone is the work of so many who over these past years have built a superb enrollment management program that recruits great students from Hawaiʻi and beyond,” said 东精影业 President David Lassner. “And it’s not just about recruiting students, it’s about retaining them. Credit for that goes to our amazing faculty, our advisors, our support staff, and all of the people who make Hawaiʻi鈥檚 own global research university such a special place to study.”

Record high first-time freshmen

东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 is also welcoming a record high 3,123 first-time freshmen in fall 2024. This is the 3rd straight year, the university has reached 3,000 or more freshmen after surpassing the mark for the first time in the university’s 117-year history in 2022.

“These enrollment numbers should not come as a surprise as 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 is one of the top universities in the world, delivering a world-class education at a cost that our students and their families can afford,” said 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno. “This type of success does not happen overnight and is the result of years of hard work and data driven improvements. Another difference maker is that we are doing a better job of consistently telling our stories, an effort that started over a decade ago.”

Record freshmen recruitment

The record number of first time freshmen also included record highs in other categories (as of September 17):

• 1,849 of the freshmen are Hawaiʻi residents, up from 1,581 in fall 2023 and 1,577 in fall 2022
• 489 identify as Native Hawaiian, up from 382 in fall 2023 and 395 in fall 2022
• 406 identify as Filipino, up from 355 in fall 2023 and 353 in fall 2022

“I am so proud to see the increases in our Native Hawaiian and Filipino students,” said 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Nikki Chun. “I would attribute the growth in the freshmen class to the changes we made to the merit scholarship program, which is now more focused on enrolling Hawaiʻi resident students.”

Enrollment at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 has been steadily rising over the last five years with one exception in 2022 when there 24 fewer students than in 2021, when enrollment had spiked by 6% increase.

Success despite FAFSA

The 4% increase in 2024 is even more impressive considering that it happened when the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process was mired with issues. The federal government鈥檚 update to the FAFSA form last year was released months behind schedule and experienced multiple technical difficulties that created uncertainty for students and their families as colleges scrambled to issue financial aid packages in spite of the challenges.

“I’m really proud that we were prepared for the FAFSA delays, and I am grateful for the proactive work done by the Financial Aid staff,” said Chun. “Despite the delays, we were able to disburse more money to both undergraduate and graduate students.”

东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 awarded merit based scholarships to 96% of all incoming, first year freshmen and 99% to all Hawaii residents that are first-year, first time freshmen. The 惭腻苍辞补 Academic Merit Scholarships were awarded based on grade point average and residency:

• Hawai鈥檌 residents with a high school cumulative GPA of 3.0-3.59 will be considered for a $3,000 scholarship per year. Total $12,000 over 4 years.
• Hawai鈥檌 residents with a high school cumulative GPA of 3.6 or higher will be considered for a $4,000 scholarship per year. Total $16,000 over 4 years.
• U.S. citizens, Hawai鈥檌 non-residents (including WUE-eligible students) with a high school cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher will be considered for a $2,000 scholarship per year. Total $8,000 over 4 years.

Chun said 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 disbursed $81.6 million to more than 11,400 students this year compared to $74.6 million to more than 9,900 students in 2023.

The final enrollment numbers for 东精影业鈥檚 10 campuses will be announced in October. As of September 17 (will update numbers tomorrow), headcount enrollment was up at eight of the ten 东精影业 campuses, with a 2.8% increase across the entire 东精影业 system. This follows fall 2023, when enrollment was up 1.8% systemwide.

Fall 2024 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 student body profile

• 62% (12,439) local students (5% increase from 2023)
• 31% (6,232) out-of-state U.S. students (2% increase from 2023)
• 6% (1,245) international students (5% increase from 2023)

A study from the at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补, reveals the crucial role that Filipino cultural values played in fostering resilience and empowerment within the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The research, conducted by Clifford Bersamira, assistant professor, and Jethro Macaraeg, a master of social work graduate, was published in .

“Intersecting Kapwa, Resilience, and Empowerment: A Case Study of Filipinos in Hawaiʻi During the COVID-19 Pandemic” addressed a significant gap in the existing literature on Filipino American resilience. Traditionally, the role of Filipino values in navigating adversity has been overlooked, but this study aims to bring these cultural values into the spotlight.

Focusing on the Filipino population in Hawaiʻi, which Bersamira describes as a “unique context compared with other Filipinos in the U.S.,” the study emphasized the community’s ability to overcome challenges through deeply ingrained cultural values.

“We often hear these narratives about how hardworking and resilient Filipinos are in light of the conditions they face, such as during the pandemic,” Bersamira said. “This study helps us understand the role of our culture and values in overcoming challenges and transforming our circumstances.”

This research highlighted not only the resilience of the Filipino community during the pandemic but also serves as a call to action for integrating cultural values into the broader discourse on empowerment and resilience.

Key values emerged from interviews

The study utilized data from 17 semi-structured interviews and employed narrative analysis to identify key Filipino values that emerged in stories of resilience and empowerment. Among these values, kapwa (shared identity) and karangalan-dangal (internal dignity) were found to be central. In the context of resilience, values such as kagandahang-loob (acts of goodwill), pakikisama (companionship), lakas ng loob (inner strength), hiya (propriety), and bahala na (determination) were highlighted. Meanwhile, values like pakikibaka (resistance), pakiramdam (shared inner perception), karangalan-puri (external dignity), utang ng loob (debt of gratitude), and katarungan (justice) were associated with empowerment.

“Our research highlights how Filipino cultural values like kapwa (shared identity) and karangalan-dangal (internal dignity) are vital for fostering both resilience and empowerment, helping the community not just endure challenges but actively transform the systems that create them,” said Macaraeg.

The study鈥檚 findings suggest that a deeper understanding of Filipino American resilience and empowerment requires an appreciation of these specific cultural values. For researchers and service providers, the study advocates for developing resources that are grounded in these cultural traditions, ultimately inviting a rethinking of strategies to support the Filipino American community.

—By Maria Pou

The and Philippines-based have established a partnership that gives Enderun students an opportunity to transfer and earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree at 东精影业.

Starting in 2026, qualifying Enderun Colleges students can articulate to 东精影业 West Oʻahu for a two-year, in-person experience at the Kapolei campus that will expose them to Indigenous culture, place-based learning and a robust academic curriculum.

The two institutions established a “2+2 Transfer and Articulation Program,” which allows Enderun Colleges students who fulfill a prescribed two-year course study guaranteed acceptance with junior standing to 东精影业 West Oʻahu鈥檚 program (to earn a bachelor of arts in business administration with a concentration in ), or the creative media program (to earn a bachelor of arts in creative media with a concentration in ).

“We are delighted to be partnering with Enderun Colleges,” said 东精影业 West Oʻahu Chancellor Maenette Benham. “Their exceptional work in international hospitality management, specializing in hotel administration or culinary arts, aligns with our BA (bachelor of arts) and BAS (bachelor of applied science) degrees. The additional pathway into creative media will provide students with professional skills that will lead to bright career opportunities.”

The partnership promotes international education, cultural exchange and collaboration in areas of common interest and benefit to both institutions. Enderun Colleges Chief Operations Officer Daniel Perez and Dean of the College of Architecture and Design Nikki Tayag visited 东精影业 West Oʻahu on November 24. The visit included a tour of the campus, followed by a signing ceremony in which Perez, Benham and 东精影业 West Oʻahu Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Harald Barkhoff officially signed the transfer and articulation agreement.

“This collaboration represents a significant step in global education, offering students the unparalleled opportunity to study in two different countries and at two esteemed institutions,” said Perez.

• Read more:

“We look forward to welcoming our new ʻohana members from the Philippines,” Benham said.

For more visit .

—By Zenaida Serrano Arvman

Bryceson Gregory Kealiʻiwiwoʻoleikamaunakiʻekiʻe Tugade is hoping to convey some important messages as a student speaker at the 鈥檚 commencement ceremony on December 9.

Always seek the “more” in life. Remain curious. Give back to your community. And one of the most valuable messages: Utilize education as a key tool for attaining personal growth and breaking down barriers.

Tugade, 23, of Aliamanu, will receive a bachelor of applied science with a concentration in (SCFS) at .

“As a first-generation college student, this means the world and so much more,” said Tugade, who is Filipino, Native Hawaiian and Chinese. “This upcoming graduation stands as a testament to my family, peers and larger community that education can be a key driver in overcoming and breaking perceived barriers.”

Emerging leader

After graduating from Radford High School in 2018, Tugade enrolled at , where he graduated in spring 2021 with an associate in science in sustainable agriculture—becoming the first in his family to receive a college degree. He then transferred in fall 2021 to 东精影业 West Oʻahu in pursuit of a bachelor鈥檚 degree.

“I was initially scared of the prospect of advancing my education,” Tugade said. “However, with staff and faculty assistance, I was not only becoming increasingly confident in my ability to perform within an academic realm, but pursuit of opportunities elsewhere was not met with doubt.”

Tugade has thrived—academically, professionally and personally—during his time at 东精影业 West Oʻahu. He found mentors in Albie Miles, his academic advisor and an associate professor in the SCFS program, as well as Indrajit Gunasekara, co-founder of the (cultural agroforestry) movement and 东精影业 West Oʻahu financial aid officer, whom Tugade calls, “my aya (older brother in Sri Lankan).”

Gunasekara said Tugade鈥檚 passionate commitment to the Aloha ʻ膧ina (love of the land) movement is very inspiring to many.

“He鈥檚 always driven to expand his understanding of the work we do with the perspective of Indigenous understanding of where his roots belong, as well as making meaning within the framework of scientific theoretical engagement,” Gunasekara said. “He is a remarkable person, a highly intelligent and deep thinker who鈥檚 always ready to step in and to support whenever, whatever capacity the help is needed.”

Miles said Tugade has proven to be an exceptional multidisciplinary food system scholar.

“He has a keen interest in the biophysical sciences, working on the genetics of Polynesian introduced crops with mentors at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, while excelling in his understanding of the root causes of many of the challenges we face in the food system of Hawaiʻi and beyond,” Miles said.

‘For my dad’

Tugade aspires to earn a master of science degree at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, and eventually a PhD in tropical plant and soil sciences.

“I plan to continue addressing the layers of work that must be done to identify the current environmental, agricultural and social obstacles we face in Hawaiʻi, and strive to find solutions to assist and serve my community,” Tugade said. “By blending my understanding of science and Indigenous Hawaiian knowledge, I can help my community to reclaim control of our local and traditional food systems for health and livelihood.”

Although Tugade didn鈥檛 always see himself pursuing a degree as he was growing up, the prospect of higher learning was always a conversation in his household, and his father emphasized the value of education. His family would participate in fundraising events for students in his father鈥檚 barrio (town) of Bacar, Magsingal, in the Ilocos Sur region of the Philippines.

“During this semester, my resilience was tested once more—my father unexpectedly passed away this October from an advanced stage of TB,” Tugade said. “From grieving with my ʻohana, to focusing on graduation, and navigating a world without him, I hope to embody resilience and the significant role education can play in our lives.”

He added, “This upcoming graduation is for my dad.”

For more visit .

—by Zenaida Serrano Arvman

In celebration of Filipino American History Month, a University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa event “Entre-Pinoy-Ship” brought together a dynamic panel of Filipino American entrepreneurs who shared their incredible journeys, the influence of their Filipino culture and the challenges they’ve faced, and imparted advice to young entrepreneurs. They also discussed their visions for the future of Filipino American entrepreneurship, all while pursuing their dreams in Hawaiʻi.

The panelists were:

• K锘縜rlo Tanjuakio, CEO and founder of GoLeanSixSigma.com + Kure
• K锘縤t Furukawa, owner of Maui Chili Chili Oil
• L锘縜laine Ignao, co-owner and CEO of Sama Sama

The event on October 27, held in the state-of-the-art Walter Dods, Jr. Center, was organized by Marketing Instructor and (PACE) Faculty Fellow Constancio Paranal III, PACE Program Manager Adelene Ortiz and PACE Leader and President Daniella Pasion. The event provided a platform for the Filipino American community to explore the stories and experiences of successful entrepreneurs who are making a significant impact in the state.

“Beyond celebrating the significant contributions of Filipino Americans in Hawaiʻi, the goal was to share our stories of struggle and challenges, and allow those stories to transcend boundaries,” Paranal said. “It is a reminder that with our shared challenges, there are opportunities, and within the stories, there is wisdom and strength. As the panelists mentioned, this is part of building our tribe, and expanding our community, including non-Filipinos.”

Finding passion and purpose

Each panelist revealed what motivated them to embark on their entrepreneurial journey. Their stories were diverse but shared a common theme of a relentless drive to create something meaningful and impactful. For Tanjuakio, it was about finding a problem that he was passionate about. Ignao was driven by her passion for sharing stories, and Furukawa was motivated by a desire to be her own boss and the freedom to build her own path.

The discussion highlighted the profound influence of Filipino culture on their business decisions and strategies. From how they approach their businesses to the products they create, the entrepreneurs were intentional in incorporating cultural elements and values into their ventures. Ignao shared that part of her role beyond sharing her culture through our products, is to educate customers of its significance and relationship.

Despite the large Filipino American population in Hawaiʻi, the panelists candidly discussed the challenges they faced while establishing and growing their businesses. The panelists shared how they navigated the challenges associated with not being accepted or others not recognizing their worth, and at times, dealing with the internal struggle of repurposing their Filipino values of humility and modesty.

The event provided a platform for the panelists to offer valuable advice to young entrepreneurs. They encouraged aspiring business leaders to embrace their cultural heritage and use it as a source of inspiration.

Be brave and surround yourself with people who support your vision.
— K锘縜rlo Tanjuakio

Tanjuakio advised young entrepreneurs to “be brave and surround yourself with people who support your vision.”

Ignao emphasized the importance of believing in your worth, stating, “You know the hard work you put into it, don鈥檛 doubt yourself.”

Furukawa highlighted the role of networking, noting, “Build your social capital. The relationships you build now will be instrumental in your future success.”

Joshua Rio, a senior majoring in management information systems and marketing said, “It was very inspiring to be able to hear from those in the community who went through similar struggles and see that they succeeded. I appreciated the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful event!”

The event was moderated by Pia Arboleda, director of the 东精影业 Mānoa and chair of the .

Filipino American History Month culminates with , a music, dance, and song demonstration and workshops at and the . The Helobung events are free and open to the public.

Helobung is an artist collective from Mindanao鈥檚 Indigenous Tboli community, Lake Sebu in Southern Philippines. Helobung means “endless joy,” a unique experience offered by this long-standing collective of Indigenous Tboli musicians, singers and dancers. In this rare opportunity for people in Hawaiʻi to experience Indigenous arts from the Southern Philippines, the five artists will give a demonstration of their dances, music and songs, teach participants movements, and engage attendees in a discussion about Indigenous Tboli culture.

“All the elements come from our community and our environment,” said ensemble leader, artistic director and dancer Michael Yambok. “It鈥檚 part of life. Dance and music are in our lives. When we perform, we don鈥檛 change anything about ourselves. The movements and expressions, the rhythm and melody鈥攖hat鈥檚 who we are.”

Helobung event dates

• October 25, 1–3 p.m., Leeward CC Waiʻanae Moku Education Center
• October 26, 1–3 p.m., Leeward Theatre, Leeward CC
• October 27, 7:30 p.m., 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补,

Helobung is sponsored by Center Stage, a public diplomacy program of the U.S. State Department. Oʻahu is the last leg of Helobung鈥檚 tour of the U.S. with a primary focus on community engagement with Filipino Americans, the broader community and other Indigenous groups. The events at Leeward CC and 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 are presented by Leeward CC鈥檚 Filipino Studies, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 Center for Southeast Asian Studies, Tau Dance Theatre and ILI Dances/ILI Performing Arts.

Leeward CC will also screen two films as part of Filipino American History Month.

• October 18—Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo
• October 25—Kun Maupay Man it Panahon

For more on the Leeward CC events email Desiree Quintero at desireeq@hawaii.edu.

In celebration of Filipino American History Month, the launched the publication of a one-of-a-kind journal devoted exclusively to the identification, gathering, preservation and dissemination of Filipino American history and culture in the U.S.

Led by Patricia Espiritu Halagao, a professor at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 and Terese Guinsatao Monberg, an associate professor at Michigan State University, the interdisciplinary peer-reviewed annual, (FANHS), showcases research by community-based and academic historians, as well as personal histories.

“I am honored and proud to have worked alongside my home institution press to create a beautiful, engaging and professional journal,” said Halagao.“It鈥檚 fitting that the FANHS Journal is published in Hawaiʻi given that Filipinos make up the largest Asian American ethnic group in the state. I hope new readers will appreciate the depth and diversity of Filipino American history.”

Halagao is a part of the journal鈥檚 new leadership that spearheaded the publication鈥檚 redesign. A new section, “Collaborating with Our Ancestors,” features tribute pieces and intergenerational conversations between past and present Filipino American academic and activist leaders. In November 2023, the journal will publish Volume 11 alongside its 10-volume archive.

• Find all published volumes of FANHS鈥檚 archive on .

The journal is sponsored by the Filipino American National Historical Society, the oldest, existing national Filipino American organization in the U.S. with 43 regional chapters nationwide. In October 1992, the society hosted the first official Filipino American History Month, long before the U.S. Congress recognized the commemorative month in 2009.

“We are so excited to publish the FANHS Journal with the University of Hawaiʻi Press. Working together, we can ensure that Filipino American history can be better documented and made more accessible to the masses,” added Kevin Nadal, president of the national society. “And because there are so many Filipino American historical narratives waiting to be told, we are looking forward to a long-lasting partnership with such a prestigious publishing company to help us tell these stories.”

Subscription information can be found .

This week鈥檚 东精影业 News Image of the Week is from the ‘s Allan Nebrija, a disabilities specialist in Academic Services.

Nebrija shared, “The 2nd Annual Filipino Cultural Summit was hosted at Leeward Community College on Saturday, October 7. This year’s summit focused on the intersection of history and community. Through the breakout sessions the participants were able to explore the journey and enduring legacy of Filipino Americans in Hawaiʻi. The event is in line with the 东精影业 System mission of providing an environment for ‘students and faculty to discover, examine critically, preserve, and transmit the knowledge, wisdom and values that will help ensure the survival of the present and future generations with improvement in the quality of life.‘ This photo was taken in front of Leeward Community College’s Multi Lingual Mural, and features the event coordinators and attendees. The event was made possible though the partnership of the Leeward CC Pamantasan Committee, the Filipino Jaycees of Honolulu, the Sariling Gawa Youth Council and Leeward CC Filipino Studies.”

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In recognition of Hawaiian History Month in September, and Filipino History and LGBTQ+ History months in October, the University of Hawaiʻi Commission on LGBTQ+ Equality is showcasing free online presentations and talk story panels in an effort to promote connection and uplift diverse voices and experiences.

, a three-month long series on Zoom will address various facets of queer experience and allyship such as intersections with culture, neurodivergence and disability.

Discovery and healing

Kaleikūkamakani Ruiz, an assistant professor and counselor at , spearheaded the inaugural series.

Ruiz understands the power of internal acceptance, and has conducted extensive research on Indigenous perspectives on gender and sexuality, which has led to a great deal of healing in his own life.

“This healing of discovery and connection is what I want for our community as a whole. My hope is that this platform allows us to learn more about ourselves and others, and in those connections, find healing, enlightenment and empowerment.”

Ruiz鈥檚 research is one of QUEERIFY鈥檚 planned lectures. The series spotlights presenters and panelists from the 东精影业 System and professionals in the community.

QUEERIFY Sessions

• September 19 at 3 p.m.
• : September 21 at 3 p.m.
• : September 27 at p.m.
• : October 3 at 3 p.m.
• : October 10 at 3:15 p.m.
• : October 19 at 3 p.m.
• : October 24 at 3:15 p.m.
• : October 26 at p.m.
• : November 2 at 3 p.m.

Nourishing manaʻo (thought, perspective)

Kawena Lorenzo, a major at and 东精影业 Commission on LGBTQ Equality member, is grateful the series will amplify queer voices to share much needed manaʻo about challenging struggles and triumphs.

Last spring, Lorenzo graduated from Leeward CC and was one of 23 recipients chosen from among thousands of applicants for the Flagship Scholarship from , the largest LGBTQ scholarship-granting nonprofit in the nation.

• Related 东精影业 News story: National LGBTQ scholarship for Leeward CC grad, June 19, 2023

“As someone who identifies as māhū, I feel it is important for people to hear the stories of our LGBTQ+ community, to understand our perspective not just on a human level but also the cultural significance of what it means to be m膩h奴 in the Native Hawaiian community,” said Lorenzo. “Our existence played a vital role—as teachers, caregivers, advisors,and we still serve in these capacities today.”

For Gabriel “Gabby” Barrientos Navalta—a Filipino-American first-generation college student who hails from Laup膩hoehoe, a small town on the H膩m膩kua Coast of Hawaiʻi Island—graduating from the isn鈥檛 just about him.

“I鈥檓 not only doing it for myself, I’m doing it for those family members who have supported me through everything, for my friends, and of course, Laup膩hoehoe, my community. I’m doing it for them,” said the 23-year-old who now resides in Kaimuk墨.

Navalta will be among the participants and one of two student speakers at 东精影业 West Oʻahu鈥檚 —which will be held Saturday, May 6, 9 a.m. at the Stan Sheriff Center on the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 campus.

Related: Anthony Tamayo Miguel: ‘Grit and determination’ part of commencement student speaker鈥檚 message, May 2023

Navalta will receive, with distinction, a bachelor of arts in creative media with a concentration in general creative media.

He said he hopes to go back to Laup膩hoehoe to help with the next generation in his hometown, whether through doing community work, getting involved with local organizations, or just raising students “up to the next level.”

Currently Navalta is employed at the Academy for Creative Media at 东精影业 West Oʻahu as a student assistant, creating content for social media and representing the program at multiple events for high school students interested in college and industry opportunities. Navalta is also a member of the National Society of Leadership & Success, and the Student Media Board at 东精影业 West Oʻahu.

东精影业 spring 2023 commencement schedule

Among his most notable achievements in his three years at the university was serving as president of the 10th Senate of the (ASUHWO) during the 2021–22 school year.

Rouel Velasco, director of Student Life and ASUHWO Senate advisor, recalled how Navalta served during the height of the pandemic and distance learning.

“While things may have been challenging, COVID or remote instruction did not stop him from serving and making a difference,” Velasco said. “All meetings were online and his familiarity with technology allowed him to flourish as a leader.”

.

—By Zenaida Serrano Arvman

More on 东精影业 West Oʻahu commencement

This semester, more than 300 students are candidates for graduation, and of these students, about 240 will be participating in commencement, which will celebrate applied science, business administration, creative media, cybersecurity, education, humanities, natural science, public administration, and social sciences candidates. 东精影业 West Oʻahu graduates from 2020, 2021 and 2022 were also invited to take part in the ceremony, and about 70 have registered to participate.

All guests are welcome to the ceremony on a first-come, first-seated basis, and will be able to greet their graduates following the formal commencement program at the Les Murakami Stadium.

Read more about Anthony Tamayo Miguel, who was also selected to be a spring 2023 commencement student speaker.

faculty specialist Rebecca Carino-Agustin and student Raymart Billote recently received awards recognizing their significant contributions to the success of Filipinas and Filipinos in education.

Carino-Agustin, a college success advisor and first-year experience coordinator, is the recipient of the Dr. Ernest “Niki” Libarios Outstanding Filipina/o Faculty & Staff Award. Billote, who is majoring in secondary education with a concentration in social studies, is the recipient of the Dr. Julius Bajet Soria Outstanding Filipina/o Student Award.

The special awards are part of the , an annual 东精影业 Systemwide event that celebrates and aims to elevate the Filipinx community. This year鈥檚 conference was presented by host campus 东精影业 West Oʻahu and held on October 21, both online and in person.

In 2018, the Pamantasan host committee from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 honoring two beloved members of the 东精影业 community. The awards recognize the significant contributions to the success of Filipina/os in education through mentoring, leadership and support.

Dr. Julius Bajet Soria Outstanding Filipina/o Student Award

“I am incredibly honored and elated to be awarded the Dr. Julius Bajet Soria Outstanding Filipina/o Student Award,” Billote said. “It meant a lot to me as a first-generation Filipino immigrant and the first person in my family to attend college here in Hawaiʻi. I have never imagined getting recognized for anything.”

A nominator commented on how Billote has made progressive strides for his community even before joining 东精影业 West Oʻahu as part of the Filipino Curriculum Project.

“Through his effort, he has helped to advocate and lead the effort to integrate Filipino history courses throughout the Department of Education system,” the nominator wrote. “They have been successful with legislation passed to make that vision a reality.”

Dr. Ernest “Niki” Libarios Outstanding Filipina/o Faculty & Staff Award

Carino-Agustin said to be honored as part of Libarios鈥� legacy reminds her of much of the work that has been done to get her to where she is in higher education as a faculty specialist.

“As a first-generation student, I have used my experiences within college to enact meaningful change in reducing barriers to and within college for the students,” she said. “It also reminds me that there is much more work to do to make higher education more accessible and more responsive to the needs of all students, especially those who have been historically excluded and marginalized.”

One nominator commented on how Carino-Agustin鈥檚 bright and positive spirit shines through at every campus event and activity where it鈥檚 an utmost priority to personally connect with students. The nominator noted that this year, despite the decrease in enrollment at 东精影业 West Oʻahu, the education division was the only division that saw an increase (9%) in enrollment this semester.

“Rebecca plays an essential role in the recruitment and retention of students pursuing a career in teaching because she is the first person that connects with students to share about the education pathway,” the nominator wrote. “She is the face of our education program. Her vibrant personality and genuine heart for students matter.”

Carino-Agustin and Billote were recognized and celebrated at the conference, where they were honored with lei and framed certificates of the awards.

Read more in .
—By Zenaida Serrano Arvman

Filipino Graduation or “FilGrad” is not just a celebration of the academic achievements of Filipino students at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补, but also the rich culture and tradition of the Philippines.

The event was held at Kennedy Theatre on May 13. It was the first in-person FilGrad since 2019 due to the pandemic (2020 event canceled, 2021 event held virtually). FilGrad was led by two Filipino student organizations at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补— and , with the assistance from the . Filipinx students and/or any individual who identifies as Filipino and embraces Filipinx culture were welcome to participate.

More highlights from the commencement ceremonies and our amazing graduates

Pia Arboleda, director of the Center for Philippine Studies, opened the event. In her address, she reminded the students that their individual successes benefit the entire community.

“Pay tribute to your grandparents and parents by bowing and kissing their hands. When you kiss their hands, genuinely look at the veins, scars and calluses for they represent the hard work and sacrifice it has taken to get you to where you are today,” Arboleda said.

FilGrad 2022

The theme of this year鈥檚 event was “Sirmata at Hiraya: Celebrating the Vision of Filipinxcellence,” to honor the Filipino visionaries of the past, and celebrate the Filipino leaders of today and tomorrow.

The main commencement speaker was attorney Sergio Alcubilla III, an alumnus of the who is running for a congressional seat representing Hawaiʻi in district 1. He was chosen for his unrelenting passion to serve our community and champion the causes that are important to Filipinos and underrepresented minorities in Hawaiʻi.

Constancio Paranal III, juris doctor candidate, and Eunice Bala, bachelor of science in biology and bachelor of arts in Philippine language and culture candidate, were selected as student speakers for their outstanding scholarship, exemplary contributions to the community, and their ability to communicate and inspire hope in these challenging times. A total of 78 graduates registered for FilGrad, representing 11 colleges and schools, including 10 doctoral and six master鈥檚 students.

Evolution of FilGrad

FilGrad is a celebration of students鈥� heritage, identity and community. It was created five years ago, when graduating Filipinx students collaborated with 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 College of Education– to host the first FilGrad in spring 2017 in the Art Auditorium. Twenty four Filipinx graduates were celebrated.

The project was initiated not only to celebrate a significant milestone for Filipino students, but on a broader scale, to address the low graduation rates of Filipino students at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. . While a new tradition, FilGrad seeks to not only celebrate the rich cultural histories and contributions of Filipinx communities in Hawaiʻi, but to ensure that representation and access are promoted.

This event is an example of 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 goal of (PDF), one of four goals identified in the (PDF), updated in December 2020.

Elarie Ranido knew she wanted a career in a health field, even as a young child. After moving from the Philippines to Hawaiʻi at age 10, she encountered bullying at school because her primary language was Ilokano. That experience encouraged her to help others in the Filipino community who faced language barriers.

Now, the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 senior is pursuing a double major in and .

“There are a lot of health issues in the Filipino community, and I want to use my knowledge of health, as well as Filipino language and culture to make an impact,” Ranido said.

I want to use my knowledge of health, as well as Filipino language and culture to make an impact.
—Elarie Ranido

Other students share the same goal. When Denise Nelson-Hurwitz, the chair of the undergraduate public health program at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 in the , looked at her list of students with multiple majors, the most common major students had declared alongside their public health major was Philippine Language and Culture.

“It鈥檚 incredibly impressive that these students pursue both of these rigorous programs,” Nelson-Hurwitz said. “The public health workforce in Hawaiʻi benefits enormously from these hardworking and multi-talented students, and our program is proud to empower them with the education and preparations to make an impact in their communities.”

According to Nelson-Hurwitz, recent research has shown, in the time of COVID-19 when racial and ethnic minorities are more likely to become sick or hospitalized, this new workforce who is representative of the increasingly diverse communities they serve is especially critical and having a positive influence.

Helping family members navigate health care

For Ranido, her experiences after moving to Hawaiʻi opened her eyes to the importance of in-language communication. Ranido saw her grandparents鈥� mistrust of the health care system, and their discomfort when they had to go to a doctor who didn鈥檛 speak their language.

Similarly, for Allen Oamil, who is pursuing multiple majors in public health and Filipino, the experience of moving to Hawaiʻi at age 12 and translating for his parents during their many doctor appointments motivated him to work toward promoting healthy lifestyles for Filipino communities.

“I like the idea of promoting interventions to whole communities,” Oamil said.

He spoke Ilokano growing up and is taking Tagalog classes at 东精影业. One of Oamil鈥檚 goals is to promote the idea of taking small steps toward better health.

“There are so many things to do鈥攅xercise, eat healthy food, manage stress鈥攁nd in Filipino communities, people have a traditional mindset and think they have to commit to large changes,” he said. “But you don鈥檛 have to run a marathon, just go for a walk. Filipino food is fatty and oily, but we can skip the red meat sometimes. I want to promote interventions that are accessible.”

Alumni supporting their communities

Recent graduate Jairah Mae Pascual earned multiple majors in public health and Ilokano, and now works at a startup that identifies health and social service needs of older adults and connects them with resources.

When Pascual moved to Hawaiʻi from the Philippines, she noticed that doctors鈥� offices and clinics usually provided papers after each appointment that explained medications or gave instructions for follow ups.

“But Filipino culture is very verbal—we like to talk,” Pascual said. “When we鈥檙e given a stack of papers to fill out, it can be overwhelming.” One of her goals is to increase the recognition of the importance of providing in-language verbal communication with patients and communities.

Meldrick Ravida recently graduated with his bachelor鈥檚 degree in public health and Filipino, and is now pursuing a master of public health at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. Ravida was born and raised in Hawaiʻi, and spoke Ilokano and English at home. While working toward his bachelor鈥檚, he completed an internship at the that focused on health in the Filipino, Native Hawaiian, Chinese and Japanese communities.

“My dual major informs the work I do every day,” Ravida said. “At my internship, I learned how to design studies and gather data, but I also understand the social and cultural norms of Filipino communities, so I incorporate my understanding of these norms in my work.”

Ravida and other graduates agree the Office of Public Health Studies program has supported them to achieve their academic goals.

“The public health department really works with you to make it possible to complete both majors,” Ravida said. “It was a great experience.”

This is an example of 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 goal of (PDF), one of four goals identified in the (PDF), updated in December 2020.