ALL SET FOR NOVEMBER 11 12th JFAV PROTEST MARCH/RALLY IN HOLLYWOOD (tags)
They Served, they Deserved Benefits.” The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and its allied organizations announced that they are all set for the biggest demonstration, the 12th JFAV Protest March/Rally in the entertainment capital of the world-Hollywood on Sunday, November 11, 2012 at 12;00 noo at Holywood and Vine intersection. For the first time, the JFAV march and rally in Hollywood and not in front of the Federal building in Downtown LA. as it usually does since 1997. Arturo Garcia, JFAV National coordinator explained the rationale for the change in venue : “ The Federal Building in downtown LA is usually closed for the November 11 holiday so all the rallies there are symbolical. Now we will bring it to the eyes entire world an not an empty edifice.” After the post-election victory of re-elected President, the JFAV wrote an appeal and demand letter asking the president to issue an executive order for full recognition of 43,000 Filipino World War II Veterans and their survivors who for more than 66 years were still unrecognized American veterans. Post Obama Election Protest Rally The JFAV stopped the lobby on the US Congress for HR 210 after the GOP controlled House of Representatives refused JFAV a hearing on HR 210 at the House Veterans Affairs Committee last August 2012 even with 96 co-sponsors for the bill.
JFAV 70th Bataan Day Benefit Dance-Dinner at FACLA, April 9, 2012 (tags)
“Remember Bataan, Honor our Heroes!” The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and Seniors for Filipino American Community Empowerment (S4PACE) ,surviving the Filipino veterans especially the defenders of Bataan and their advocates will hold a commemoration of the 70th Bataan Day, on Monday, April 9, 2012 at FACLA Social Hall ,1740 W. Temple St. Los Angeles, CA 90026 at 5:00 PM. The event dubbed as “ Gabi ng Kasaysayan at Kasiyahan”.—a dinner dance party is a fundraiser of JFAV for its delegation that will lobby at the US Congress from April 16-18, 2012 in Washington DC.
Los Angeles City Council Passes Resolution to Support AB 199 and AJR 6 for Filipino WWII V (tags)
The Los Angeles City Council today unanimously approved the resolution in support of California AB 199 and AJR 6 in a legislative effort to recognize the presence and contribution of Filipino World War II veterans in our history books, To support Asssemblyperson Fiona Ma?s effort City Coouncil member Richard Alarcon introduced the resolution. It was seconded by Councilmen Tom Lebonge, Eric Garcetti, Jose Huizar,Ed Reyes and Bill Rosendhal, a Vietnam War veteran. All of them spoke to support the resolution to the delight of the crowd.
On the Supreme Court decision on the Visconde Massacre Case (tags)
The Alliance-Philippines send its deepest sympathy and outrage to Mr. Lauro Vizconde and his relatives and friends for the grave injustice perpetrated by the highest court of the land- the Philippine Supreme Court on its decision overturning the Court of Appeals and the lower court on the Visconde Massacre case. As an analysts put it: “The Supreme Court have killed Mr. Lauro Visconde twice.” It reminded us when the United States Supreme Court in 2001 decided in favor of GOP George Bush against Al Gore in the election recount case in Florida that made the presidency of George W. Bush Jr. from 2001-2009.
HUNDREDS MARCHED FOR JUSTICE,EQUITY AND PEACE ON VETERANS DAY IN LA (tags)
The 3-mile long march began at around 10;45 Am. With the student groups like Kappa Psi Epsilon, Chi Rho , XPO, TBD, Samahang Pilipino at UCLA, Kababayan of UC Irvine. Katipunan UC Riverside, CalPoly BARKADA, FASA from CSUN, Long Beach PAC, San Marcos, Andres Bonifacio Samahan from San Diego,SDSU to mention a few leading the way. They were joined by student activist groups from Pro People Youth KMB, ANSWER-LA, BANTAY PILIPINAS-USA, EPCC, AJLPP, the EFJPP while ve veterans and widows from the Society of Guerilla and Scouts (SGS), United Filipino American Veterans (UFAV), VFP-UC Chapter, AWARE-LA, Seniors for PACE (SPACE ) rode in the vehicles. Big streamers calling for recognition, justice and equity as well as immigrant rights were very prominent. Filipino, AJLPP and KMB flags flew high and proud during the march. The youth and advocates shouted slogans all the way.
ON NOV.11 IN LA: MARCH FOR JUSTICE, EQUITY AND PEACE! (tags)
MARCH FOR JUSTICE, EQUITY AND PEACE! Everbody is ready for the Ninth Veterans Day Protest March next Thursday, November 11, 2010 in Los Angeles! The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) still calls on all community organizations, school and youth organizations in Southern California; advocates of justice and peace, veterans groups, widows and relatives of veterans to join the protest march to downtown Federal building on Veterans Day, November 11, 2010. The assembly area is at Search to Involve the Filipino Americans (SIPA), 3200 W. Temple St. Los Angeles, CA 90026 at 9;00 AM. The march route will be from Temple St right at Glendale to 2nd St to downtown Federal building at 300 Los Angeles St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. The march will start at 10:30 AM.
ALL SET FOR THE 9th VETERANS DAY MARCH, NOV.11 IN LA: MARCH FOR JUSTICE, EQUITY AND PEACE (tags)
MARCH FOR JUSTICE, EQUITY AND PEACE! All is set for the Ninth Veterans Day Protest March next Thursday, November 11, 2010 in Los Angeles! We in JFAV calls on all community organizations, school and youth organizations in Southern California; advocates, veterans groups, widows and relatives of veterans to join the protest march to downtown Federal building on Veterans Day, November 11, 2010. The assembly area is at Search to Involve the Filipino Americans (SIPA) at 9;00 Am and the march route will be from Temple St right at Glendale to 2nd St to downtown Federal building. The march will start at 10;30 AM.
Inaanyahan ang lahat sa Isang Gabi ni Rizal" dito sa LA, Tayo na at manood!" (tags)
"Inaanyahan ang lahat sa Isang Gabi ni Rizal" dito sa LA, Tayo na at manood!" Bantay Pilipinas- USA will. again venture into another ground breaking event - a multi media celebration of the heroism and artistry of the Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal on October 16, 2010 This will be held at the East West Players in the heart of Los Angeles' Little Tokyo -at the East West Players (EWP) Theater, 120 Judge Aiso St. Los Angeles, CA, 90012 "Isang Gabi ni Rizal" will feature a full reception replete with chamber music, wine table, verses from Rizal's work, exhibition of paintings by U.S. based Filipino artists, books and Rizal inspired publications and a sumptuous Filipino style light buffet.
Night with Jose Rizal, October 16 in LA (tags)
"Isang Gabi ni Rizal". Bantay Pilipinas- USA will. again venture into another ground breaking event - a multi media celebration of the heroism and artistry of the Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal on October 16, 2010 This will be held at the East West Players in the heart of Los Angeles' Little Tokyo -at the East West Players (EWP) Theater, 120 Judge Aiso St. Los Angeles, CA, 90012 "Isang Gabi ni Rizal" will feature a full reception replete with chamber music, wine table, verses from Rizal's work, exhibition of paintings by U.S. based Filipino artists, books and Rizal inspired publications and a sumptuous Filipino style light buffet.
BANTAY PILIPINAS FORMED IN CALIFORNIA (tags)
The Manila based BANTAY PILIPINAS, a cybernet group that advocated for free, clean and honest elections in the Philippines last May 10 presidential elections - formed the Steering Committee of its LA project last August 29, 2010. In a collective decision to continue the tasks of BANTAY PILIPINAS not only as an election watch dog but also as the premier advocate of good governance and anti graft and corruption campaign in the Philippines - individuals and groups banded together and formed a steering committee in Los Angeles
Honor our Heroes, Celebrate their Greatness on Aug. 30 at SIPA (tags)
Honor our Heroes, Celebrate their Greatness The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and Search to Involve the Pilipino Americans (SIPA) cordially invite the public for their very first Philippine National Heroes Day Celebration in the United States on Monday, August 30, 2010. The commemorative event will be held on Monday, August 30, 2010 at the Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) Community Hall, 3200 W. Temple St. Los Angeles, CA 90026 around 6;30 PM.
BANTAY PILIPINAS FORMED IN CALIFORNIA (tags)
The Manila based BANTAY PILIPINAS, a cybernet group that advocated for free, clean and honest elections in the Philippines last May 10 presidential elections - formed the Steering Committee of its LA project last August 15, 2010. In a collective decision to continue the tasks of BANTAY PILIPINAS not only as an election watch dog but also as the premier advocate of good governance and anti graft and corruption campaign in the Philippines - individuals and groups banded together and formed a steering committee in Los Angeles.
JUSTICE FOR FILIPINO AMERICAN VETERANS (JFAV) MEET W/ Congressman Bob Filner Share (tags)
A group of Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) met with Congressman Bob Filner, ( D-51st District) ,head of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs in a legislative visit in his Chula Vista office today at 9:00 AM, July 09, 2010. The San Diego and Los Angeles group headed by JFAV National Coordinator Arturo P. Garcia and San Diego JFAV representation met with Congressman Filner and his Filipino deputy Manny Doria for fifteen minutes. The JFAV organization updated Rep. Filner on the present situation of 16,000 Filipino veterans who were denied of their lump sum claims by the Department of Veterans Affair (DVA). Rep. Filner acknowledged that they did not expect that more than 41,000 Filipino World War II veterans will apply for claims. They ( US Congress) only provided for 18,000 Filipino veterans.
JFAV /AWARE Marks the 65th year victory at the Battle of Bessang Pass in Los Angeles (tags)
Honor our Veterans,Celebrate their victories! The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and the Association of Widows, Advocates and Relatives for Equality (AWARE) will mark the 65th year commemoration of the victory at the Battle of Bessang Pass, June 14, 1945 with a commemorative program Arturo P. Garcia , JFAV national coordinator and Mrs. Lulu Astilla, AWARE president announced that the commemorative event will be held on Monday , June 14, 2010 at the Church of the Nazarene Hall at 3401 W.3rd St Los Angeles, CA 90020 at around 9:00 AM.
JFAV /AWARE Marks the 65th year victory at the Battle of Bessang Pass in Los Angeles (tags)
Calling on all surviving veterans of the Battle of Bessang Pass and widows or relatives of Filipino World War II veterans in Los Angeles. The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and the Association of Widows, Advocates and Relatives for Equality (AWARE) will mark the 65th year commemoration of the victory at the Battle of Bessang Pass, June 14, 1945 with a commemorative program Arturo P. Garcia , JFAV national coordinator and Mrs. Lulu Astilla, AWARE president announced that the commemorative event will be held on Monday , June 14, 2010 at the Church of the Nazarene Hall at 3401 W.3rd St Los Angeles, CA 90020 at around 9:00 AM.
ITS ALL SYSTEMS GO FOR THE MAYFLOWER FESTIVAL AND PARADE ON MAY 15 IN 3rd/VERMONT, LOS AN (tags)
It’s all systems go for the MayFlower Festival and Parade on May 15. The MayFlower Festival- a Neighborhood fiesta and inter-faith parade will be held on Saturday May 15, 2010 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the First Church of the Nazarene, 34101 3rd St near Vermont Ave. Los Angeles. We invite all organizations and individuals to participate in the festival and parade that will feature the cultures of the Philippines. Those who are interested to join the parade can register and come as parade participants. They must be dressed in Filipiniana or any Filipino customs.
ALL SYSTEMS GO FOR THE MAYFLOWER FESTIVAL AND PARADE ON MAY 15 IN 3rd/VERMONT, LOS ANGELES (tags)
Its all systems go for the MayFlower Festival on May 15 in LA. The MayFlower Festival , a Neighborhood fiesta and inter-faith parade will be held on Saturday May 15, 2010 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the First Church of the Nazarene, 3401 West 3rd St near Vermont Ave. Los Angeles. a We call on all organizations and individuals to participate in the festival and parade that will feature the cultures of the Philippines. Those who are interested to join the parade can register and come as parade participants. They must be dressed in Filipiniana or any Filipino or Filipiniana customes.
MAYFLOWER FESTIVAL AND PAR (tags)
The MayFlower Festival Outreach Project , a Neighborhood fiesta and inter-faith and non-denominational parade will be held on Saturday May 15, 2010 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the First Church of the Nazarene, 3401 West 3rd St near Vermont Ave. Los Angeles. We invite all organizations and individuals to participate in the festival and parade that will feature the cultures of the Philippines. Those who are interested to join the parade can register and come as parade participants. They must be dressed in Filipiniana or any Filipino or Filipiniana or regional customes of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
UTOS NA DOJ PABOR SA AMPATUAN- UTOS NI GMA, TALAMAK NA KAWALANGHIYAAN! (tags)
“ Sagad sa butong kawalanghiyaan!” Ito ang naibulalas ng Philippine Peasant Support Network (PESANTE))-USA na nakabase sa Los Angeles sa desisyon ng Department of Justice Secretary Agra na nagbasura sa kasong murder ng dalawang Ampatuan noong nakaraang Biyernes. Ayon pa kay Arturo P. Garcia ng Pesante “ Maliwanag na utos ito ni GMA at paghahanda ito para pawalang wala ang mga Ampatuan at gamitin ang mga ito lalo na si dating Governor ng ARMM Zaldy Ampatuan na muling mandaya sa darating na eleksyong Mayo 10, 2010” ayon sa PESANTE-USA.
More than 600,000 marched in The US Capitol for Immigrant Rights (tags)
The Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC) expresses solidarity with the 600,000 Washington march for real immigration reform. In contrast to the reactionary tea-party baggers more than hundreds of thousand immigrant rights activist from all over American marched in Washington DC, Sunday, march 21. Together with them the EPCC is determined to push a major overhaul of the immigration system to the top of the nation's political agenda, challenging Congress to fix laws that they say separate families and hurt the country's economic and social vitality. In Long Beach. JFAV coordinator Arturo P. Garcia spoke at the packed Long Beach Unitarian Church on Sunday, March 21 at 4:00 pm in solidarity with faith-based group that held an inter-faith service in solidarity with the Washington immigrant march.
More than 200,000 marched in The US Capitol for Immigrant Rights (tags)
The Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC) expresses solidarity with the 200,000 Washington march for real immigration reform. In contrast to the reactionary tea-party baggers more than 200,000 imigrant rights activist from all over American marched in Washington DC, Sunday, march 21. Together with them the EPCC is determined to push a major overhaul of the immigration system to the top of the nation's political agenda, challenging Congress to fix laws that they say separate families and hurt the country's economic and social vitality. In Long Beach. JFAV coordinator Arturo P. Garcia spoke at the packed Long Beach Unitarian Church on Sunday, March 21 at 4:00 pm in solidarity with faith-based group that held an inter-faith service in solidarity with the Washington immigrant march.
Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC) (tags)
“Anti-Filipino, insensitive and unjust.” This is the reaction of the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and Association of Widows, Advocates and Relatives for Equality (AWARE) on the defense being put up by the head of the Philippine Embassy’s Office of the Veterans Affairs (OVA) Gen Victor Corpus. By saying many claims are “ false , duplicates and incomplete claims”, Corpus is acting like a spokesperson for the United States DVA. He should leave that job to retired General Taguba of the DVA. JFAV National Coordinator Arturo P. Garcia pointed out; “ It pains us that a Filipino like a former rebel General Victor Corpus is acting in the service of the US Agency. Instead of protecting the Filipino veterans he even give credence to the spurious claims of the DVA”
AWARE-LA INDUCTION OF OFFICERS , DEC. 8, 2009 AT FACLA SOCIAL HALL (tags)
The Association of Widows, Relatives and Advocates for Equality (AWARE) based in Los Angeles marked the 68th year of the start of the Second World War and Pearl Harbor Day , December 7, 1841 with the induction of their new set of officers last December 8, 2009 The induction and dance party was held at the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) Social Hall last December 8, 2009 at 12;00 noon. AWARE,was formed with the help of JFAV.
AJLPP CONDEMNS THE US-ARROYO’S KID GLOVES HANDLING OF AMPATUANS (tags)
The Alliance –Philippines or the AJLPP condemns in the strongest posssible terms barbaric massacre perpetrated by the Ampatuan warlord dynasty in Maguindanao last November 22, 2009. The massacre victimized 62 ( at the present count) that includes 27 members of the Philippine press, 22 women who were all raped and mutilated and 15 bystanders who happened to be passing the scene. Arturo P. Garcia. West Coast coordinator of the Alliance said that "the AJLPP is one with the National Press Club (NPC) and other democratic forces in the Philippines in condemning “this senseless act of political violence. " “The massacre proved again the naked truth. That warlords and their dynasties led by the Arroyo dynasty in Pampanga is very much alive in the Philippines. Arroyo also heads the biggest private army composed of the AFP and the PNP in the Philippines” Garcia said The Alliance squarely blamed the US-Arroyo regime for the massacre and believes that this massacre is very common of the human rights violations under the US-Arroyo regime.
AJLPP CONDEMNS MAGUINDANAO MASSACRE (tags)
The Alliance –Philippines or the AJLPP vehenemently condemned the barbaric massacre in Magunidanao last November 22, 2009 that victimized some members of the Philippine press. Arturo P. Garcia. West Coast coordinator of the Alliance said that "the AJLPP is one with the National Press Club (NPC) and other democratic forces in the Philippines in condemning this senseless act of political violence. " The National Press Club (NPC) and the Alyansa ng Filipinong Mamamahayag (AFIMA) denounced the abduction and massacre of at least 36 persons, including media men, in Barangay Masalay, Datu Abdullah Sangki town in Maguindanao.
JFAV/ FIL-AMS ALL SET FOR VETERANS DAY PROTEST MARCH ON NOVEMBER 11 IN LA (tags)
CLAIMS DELAYED IS JUSTICE DENIED! DEMAND JUSTICE! For more than eight years the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) commemorate Veterans Day with an annual parade around Historic Filipinotown in Los Angeles to honor the Filipino World War II. This years 2009 will be different. Led by JFAV- a national alliance of veterans,youth and students and AWARE, composed of widows and seniors, the Filipino American community will hold a protest march towards downtown Los Angeles to the Federal building to dramatize their protest against long delays and slow-processing of the veterans claims. The JFAV protest march will start at FACLA compound at 1740 W. Temple St. Los Angeles, CA 90026. Assembly will start at 7:00 PM. A program will be held inside the FACLA Hall and the march will commence at 10;00 AM. Invited guest is Assemblyman Kevin De Leon of the 45th District.
CLAIMS DELAYED IS JUSTICE DENIED! (tags)
I speak in behalf of the Justice for Filipino-American Veterans (JFAV) and AWARE (Association of Widows, Advocates, and Relatives for Equality) with chapters in key US cities. I want to echo the veterans and widows huge disappointment over the slow processing of the lump sum. While your office claims that 25% have received their lump sum both in the US and Philippines, many veterans here in the US feel that your office fails to deliver an immediate and 100% delivery of an overdue benefit. How many more months and years do these veterans have to wait after having waited for the last 63 years?
Claims delayed is Justice Denied (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV), an alliance of veterans, widows, students and youth and community advocates in the United States and the Association of Widows, Relatives and Advocates for Equality (AWARE) in Los Angeles again raised it voice against the insidious and unfair propaganda of the DVA against the Filipino World War II Veterans. For us it is the fault of the DVA that they only projected 18,000 veterans to be filing pension claims under the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund. Now that nearly double that number -- or 32,795 applications.
JFAV SCORES DVA DELAYS AND SLOW-PROCESSING; REITERATES CLAIMS DELAYED, JUSTICE DENIED! (tags)
“ Claims Delayed, Justice Denied! The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV), an alliance of veterans, widows, students and youth and community advocates in the United States based in Los Angeles again raised it voice against the insidious and unfair propaganda of the DVA against the Filipino World War II Veterans. It is the fault of the DVA that they only projected 18,000 veterans to be filing pension claims under the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund, and now nearly double that number -- or 32,795 applied? The JFAV scores the malicious insinuations of the DVA that “ This could indicate, according to analysts, that there may be spurious or incomplete claims being filed, or that some veterans may be submitting duplicate claims. “ JFAV bewail the fact they use this reason to say “these could be slowing down the application process. As early as 2002, JFAV has stood with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) that were at least 70,000 still living Filipino veterans in the Philippines. But the DVA bulldozed their claims that there are only 18,000 veterans both in the US and the Philippines. Who now is telling the truth? Why are they surprised with the number of claims?
JFAV/AWARE MARKED 65th LEYTE LANDING, on October 22 at the Hollywood Presbyterian Medical (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV), an alliance of veterans, widows, students and youth and community advocates in the United States and the Association of Widows, Relatives and Advocates for Equality (AWARE) in Los Angeles marked the 65th year anniversary of the Leyte Landing on October 20, 1944 with a commemorative rites at the AWARE general assembly last October 22, 2009 at the Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center Lecture hall.
GMA AND TEODORO CANNOT CLAIM THE VETERANS VICTORY AS THEIRS (tags)
We wrote this letter as a rejoinder to the steady stream of propaganda from the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and ever willing Philippine government functionaries led by Secretary of Defense Gilberto Teodoro and his lackeys namely PVAO retired General Ernesto Carolina and their paid hacks. But the glaring fact it is more than six months now when the Stimulus Bill was passed and only less than 3,000 Filipino veterans in the United States have received their checks. We want to know what keeping the claims so slow. The United States is deliberately using the claims as a propaganda tool to make the Filipino people accept their Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and the proposed changes in the 1987 constitution that will give them 100% ownership of Philippine lands and corporations.
Claims DELAYED, JUSTICE DENIED (tags)
Despite the Letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) to the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) dated September 4, 2009 in reply to our questions, the national alliance based in Los Angeles continues to receive numerous complaints from Filipino World War II veterans on the slow process of their claims. It is more than six months now when the Stimulus Bill was passed and only less than 2,000 Filipino veterans in the United States have received their checks. We want to know what keeping the claims so slow. Therefore, we are afraid and have to tell the veterans and their dependents that the claims will take another 18 months at most to be all be paid to tall of them.
JFAV Commemorates 67th Anniversary of the Fall of Corregidor in the United States. (tags)
The Filipino American community in the United States and the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) militantly salutes all Filipino and Americans veterans, living or departed for the 67th Anniversary of the fall of Corregidor, May 6, 1942. With the fall of the island bastion of Corregidor it paved the way of the total surrender of the whole Philippines to the Japanese invaders in May 9, 1942.
JFAV Commemorates 67th Anniversary of the Fall of Corregidor in the United States. (tags)
The Filipino American community in the United States and the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) militantly salutes all Filipino and Americans veterans, living or departed for the 67th Anniversary of the fall of Corregidor, May 6, 1942. With the fall of the island bation of Corregidor it paved the way of the total surrender of the whole Philippines to the Japanese invaders in May 9, 1942. For their heroism in Bataan, Corregidor and other battlefields in the Philippines, the brave soldiers and guerillas held the line for more than three months and farther on for another three more years waging a fierce war of resistance against the Japanese fascist invaders.
AJLPP MOBILIZES FOR MAY ! FULL RIGHTS FOR ALL IMMIGRANTS RALLY IN LA (tags)
The Alliance Philippines (AJLPP) calls on all immigrant right advocates and activists to MARCH FOR FULL RIGHTS FOR ALL IMMIGRANTS! AMNESTY NOW! On May 1, 2009. The AJLPP West Coast Coordinator Arturo P. Garcia announced that the Filipino-American contingent composed of students, workers, activist will assemble at PEOPLE"S CORE on 1610 Beverly Blvd,. Suite No. 2 Los Angeles, CA 90026 from 11:30 AM to 12:00 noon and proceed to assembly area in Broadway and Olympic, where march starts at 1.00 PM The AJLPP with ANSWER Coalition encourages everyone to come out on Friday, May 1 for a Mass March and Rally for immigrant rights in downtown Los Angeles. Please see below for details and post widely on Facebook, MySpace and your own email lists.
32,000 MARK REACHED THIS APRIL: MORE VETERANS DYING WITHOUT BENEFITS (tags)
“The more the merrier” With this as a rule the Philippine and the US governments braces itself for more troubles as the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles confirmed today that there were more than 32,000 Filipino veterans have applied for lump sum benefits since February 2009. During the commemoration of 67th Bataan Day in Los Angeles last April 9, 2009, Los Angeles Deputy Consul Daniel Espiritu confirmed that there were more than 32,000 veterans who have applied and are having their claims processed in the Philippines and the United States. The problem of more applicants for the benefits still plagues the veterans.
MORE VETERANS APPLYING FOR BENEFITS; 32,000 MARK REACHED THIS APRIL (tags)
“The more the merrier” With this as a rule the Philippine and the US governments braces itself for more troubles as the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles confirmed today that there were more than 32,000 Filipino veterans have applied for lump sum benefits since February 20098. During the commemoration of 67th Bataan Day in Los Angeles last April 9, 2009, Los Angeles Deputy Consul Daniel Espiritu confirmed that there were more than 32,000 veterans who have applied and are having their claims processed in the Philippines and the United States. The problem of more applicants for the benefits still plagues the veterans.
LUMP SUM CHECKS OUT: MORE THAN 26,000 FILIPINO VETERANS ENROLLED FOR BENEFITS (tags)
The first batch of Filipino World War II veterans are about to receive their lump sum checks this month as promised by the Department of Veterans Administration (DVA) The DVA reported that they are assessing at least 776 applications and have approved the first batch of 195 checks that will be delivered this week to at least 18,000 veterans in the United States and the Philippines. A 98-year old ACFV lobbyist Alberto Bacani, from Alexandria , Virginia became the first Filipino veteran who received his $ 15,000 dollar check. This was given to him by retired general Antonio Taguba who represented the DVA Secretary in a special ceremony in the Philippine Embassy in Washington DC last April 8.
JFAV Commemorates 67th Bataan Day (tags)
The Filipino American community in the United States and the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) militantly salutes all Filipino and Americans veterans, living or departed for the 67th Anniversary of the fall of Bataan, April 9, 1942. For their heroism in Bataan, Corregidor and other battlefields in the Philippines, the brave soldiers and guerillas held the line for more than three months and farther on for another three more years waging a fierce war of resistance against the Japanese fascist invaders. For their bravery the American people should honor the Filipinos and reward them with the recognition and benefits that they deserve. Because of their steadfast defense, the men in Bataan -- the Allied powers most specially the United States bought time and was able to prepare defenses and later on wage a counter attack to liberate the countries occupied by Japan and eventually defeat Japan during the war.
AJLPP CONDEMNS HOUSE PROBE ON DAVAO KILLINGS (tags)
The Alliance Philippines (AJLPP) vehemently condemns the House planned probe into the reported summary executions in Davao City, describing it as politically motivated. “For the AJLPP the investigation is nothing more than a political vendetta,” Arturo P. Garcia AJLPP West Coast coordinator said “The public and all the peoplel know that Mayor Rudy Duterte and Speaker Prospero Nograles are political enemies. And clearly, the investigation is nothing more than an abuse of the power of Congress and the ruling party. “ Garcia said.
JFAV /WARE PROTEST WIDOWS EXCLUSION (tags)
LUMP SUM IS NOT EQUITY! Scores of activist and advocates led by the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and the newly formed Association of Widows, Advocates and Relatives of veterans for Equality (AWARE) held a protest rally at the INS Federal Building in 300 Los Angeles St in downtown LA in commemoration of International Women’s Day last March 9 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM
JFAV RECOGNIZES COMMUNITY SUPPORT CRUCIAL (tags)
Scores of activist and advocates led by the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) in a community forum held last Wednesday night, March 4 in Historic Filipinotown. They recognized the crucial role of community organizations especially the People’s Community Organization for Reform and Empowerment (People’s CORE) who started the veterans struggle for equity 17 years ago and won some benefits including the lump sum in the Stimulus Law. The well attended community forum was held at the Community Hall of Search to Involve the Pilipino Americans (SIPA) in 3200 W. Temple St. Los Angeles. SIPA is one of the community organizations recognized that night.
VALENTINE'S DAY CELEBRATION IN FACLA FEB 14 (tags)
The Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) held an “Affair to Remember” in commemoration of Valentine’s Day last February 14 from 6:00 PM to 12:00 PM at the FACLA Social Hall. The program was capped by the coronation of Mrs. Valentine- Mrs. Alicia Albano Parino; Miss Valentine Ms. Carolyn Pesquiza Sabas and Miss Teen Valentine Ms. Kimberly Padua Esliza.
FIGHT RACISM ,FIGHT FOR JUSTICE AND EQUITY (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) expresses its opposition to the lump sum provision included in the Stimulus Bill or the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Section 1001. Title X. In the Stimulus bill that passed, the lump sum bill still has a “quit claim” or a foreclosure to any claim for a lifetime full pension benefit. While the $15, 000 for US citizens or $9,000 for non US citizens may provide temporary relief, THERE IS NO PROVISION FOR RECOGNITION!
JFAV BLASTS GOP ON VETERANS BENEFITS BILL (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) criticized the republicans in the US Congress for their unreasonable opposition to the $198-million Filipino veterans pension provision that found its way into President Barack Obama’s pet – the Economic Stimulus Bill. The veterans benefits is widely criticized by Republican members of Congress as having no place in the controversial and complex piece of legislation. They said the lump sum pension bill meant for about 18,000 Filipino veterans who fought side by side U.S. forces against the Japanese during World War II would “clutter” a bill that is already riddled with questionable and “wasteful earmarks.” “The Republicans like Senator Burr and Rep. Buyer readily forget they owe Filipino veterans a debt of gratitude for winning the war in the Pacific. They only want to bail-out the corporations not the people. Republicans and conservative” blue dog” democrats are outright ingrates!”, JFAV National Coordinator Arturo Garcia exclaimed.
SAN FRANCISCO VETS PETITIONS PELOSI ON STIMULUS BILL (tags)
A groups of San Francisco Filipino World War II veterans sent a petition to Speaker Nancy Pelosi at the San Francisco State Building to expresses grave concern on the fate of the Stimulus Bill on which the Filipino veterans benefits bill that now hangs by a thread. While the Stimulus bill passed the Senate last Tuesday, Feb 10, it will still go to a bicameral conference. The San Francisco Filipino veterans and their advocates sent the petition to the Speaker office last February 10, to make sure that it will not suffer the fate of S. 1315.
NO TO LUMP SUM WITHOUT FULL RECOGNITION,JUSTICE AND EQUITY, NOW! (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) expresses grave concern on the fate of the Stimulus Bill on which the Filipino veterans benefits bill is now hangs by a thread. While the US Senate passed the Stimulus bill, it will still go on a bicameral conference to settle its differences and the veterans befits bill is in danger of being dropped again. Senator Inouye inserted the benefits bill and promised to resign as Senate Appropriations chair if the Filipino veterans bill does not pass. On February 18, 2009 is the 63rd anniversary of the Rescission Act that took away the rights of the Filipinos to get equal benefits. The Congress did this to the Filipinos out of around 60 nationalities who served the US Armed Forces.
NO TO LUMP SUM WITHOUT RECOGNITION (tags)
Los Angeles – The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) expresses grave concern on the fate of the Stimulus Bill on which the Filipino veterans benefits bill is now hangs by a thread. This February 18, 2009 is the 63rd anniversary of the Rescission Act that took away the rights of the Filipinos to get equal benefits. The Congress did this to the Filipinos out of around 60 nationalities who served the US Armed Forces. If this is not outright racism, what is this?
REMEMBERING MENDIOLA, Jan 22, 2009 at FACLA (tags)
Los Angeles-- REMEMBER MENDIOLA! FIGHT FOR HUMAN RIGHTS! GABNET of the Mariposa Alliance,PESANTE and the Alliance for Just and Lasting Peace in the Philippines (AJLPP) in Los Angeles,marked the 22nd Year of the January 22,1987 Mendiola Massacre, where thirteen (13)protesters were killed and over 150 others were wounded in an educational forum in FACLA, community hall on Jan 22, 2009 in Historic Filipinotown Los Angeles. Speaking before scores of FilAm activists, Arturo Garcia of Pesante and AJLPP explained that the AFP was after the NDF negotiating panel who were in Manila in 1987 during the 60 day ceasefire. Unable to liquidate their targets they pounced on the defend less peasants in Mendiola that day.
PESANTE COMMEMORATES MENDIOLA MASSACRE (tags)
On Thursday, January 22nd, Gabnet of the Mariposa Alliance will co-host an educational forum with PESANTE and the Alliance for Just and Lasting Peace in the Philippines (AJLPP) in Los Angeles. The groups will meet to commemorate the 22nd Year of the January 22,1987 Mendiola Massacre, where 15,000 peasants peacefully rallying for genuine land reform from the newly installed US-Aquino Regime were ruthlessly fired upon by the police and the Philippine Marines. Thirteen protesters were killed and over 150 others were wounded. The AFP was after the NDF negotiating panel who were in Manila in 1987 during the 60 day ceasefire. Unable to liquidate their targets they pounced on the defend less peasants in Mendiola that day.
REP. MANDANAS VISITS LOS ANGELES, CONDUCTS DIALOGUE WITH FILAM VETERANS (tags)
Philippine Congressman Herminigildo Mandanas together with Los Angeles Consul General Mary Jo B. Aragon held a dialogue with the Filipino American veterans and community leaders last Friday, January 9 at FASGI, 135 N. Parkview St. Los Angeles. They discussed the Filipino Veterans Support Bill, or SB 3689 that passed the Senate hearings last November 17 remains as the foremost concern of the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV). Heated Discussion There was a heated discussion on the lump sum bill when JFAV leader Arturo P. Garcia brought put the fact that the SB 3689 has a quit claim and offers no recognition to the veterans. He also scored the vagueness of the bill.
NEW FACLA BOARD FOR 2009-2011 ASSUMES OFFICEEXECUTIVE OFFICERS FOR 2009-11 (tags)
The new FACLA Board for 2009-2011 led by the new FACLA president Rizalino Manuel of Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) was sworned –in to office last Sunday,January 4. 2009 at FACLA Community Hall. Attended by more than a hundred guests and FACLA members,sworned in as new executive officers were Rizalino Manuel, President;Adolfino Aguayon -1st Vice Pesident; Terry Herrera as 2nd Vice President; Gloria Resureccion as 3rd Vice President; Darlene Salvador as Secretary; Cris Florendo as Treasurer and Romy Jaravata as Auditor.
PCORE/ JFAV JOINS 4th FILIPINO HISTORICTOWN LANTERN PARADE (tags)
Maligayang Pasko! Scores of Filipino World War II Veterans with the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) marched along the busy Temple Street sidewalks together with more than a hundred seniors, young students and residents from the Manila Terrace Apartments to Search to Involve The Pilipino Americans (SIPA) compound with lighted lanterns or ” Parols “last Friday, December 19. Meanwhile, the JFAV-San Francisco held their Christmas program with a potluck lunch at the Wolff’s House in downtown San Francisco last Dec. 14. More than 60 veterans and widows attended the Christmas party.
JFAV/PEOPLE”S CORE PARTICIPATES IN 4th HISTORIC FILIPINOTOWN LANTERN PARADE (tags)
Maligayang Pasko! Scores of Filipino World War II Veterans with the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) marched along the busy Temple Street sidewalks together with more than a hundred seniors, young students and residents from the Manila Terrace Apartments to Search to Involve The Pilipino Americans (SIPA) compound with lighted lanterns or ” Parols “last Friday, December 19. The Parol parade started at around 5:15 PM. Filipino American organizations like People’s CORE, veterans, students and parents from Burlington School, Pilipino American Democrats of Los Angeles(PALAD), Filipino Christian Church( FCC), Lord of Harvest Ministry, GEPENC, JFAV, PANA, TWNDC and SIPA marched up Temple St through the sidewalks.
NEW FACLA BOARD ELECTS EXECUTIVE OFFICERS FOR 2009-11 (tags)
The new FACLA Board led by former FACLA vice-president Rizalino Manuel of Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) met last Sunday, December 7 and elected a new set of executive officers. Elected executive officers were Rizalino Manule, President: Adolfio Aguayon -1st Vice Pesident; Terry Herrera as 2nd Vice President; Gloria Resureccion as 3rd Vice President; Darlene Salvador as Secretary; Cris Florendo as Treasurer and Romy Jaravate as Auditor.
JFAV Represents in Big Events (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) continues it unrelenting advocacy even in the advent of the Christmas season 2008. While the Filipino Veterans Support Bill, SB 3689 hangs in the balance like SB 1315, different JFAV chapters continued it activities everywhere.
JFAV Represented in Big Events in WAshington DC and SFO (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) continues it unrelenting advocacy even in the advent of the Christmas season 2008. While the Filipino Veterans Support Bill, SB 3689 hangs in the balance like SB 1315, different JFAV chapters continued it activities everywhere.
NEW FACLA BOAD ELECTS OFFICERS DEC. 7 (tags)
The Coalition for A Better Community (CBC) led by former FACLA vice-president Rizalino Manuel of Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) board of directors met last Sunday, December 7 and elected a new set of executive officers. Elected executive officers were Rizalino Manule, President: Adolfio Aguayon -1st Vice Pesident; Terry Herrera as 2nd Vice President; Gloria Resureccion as 3rd Vice President; Darlene Salvador as Secretary; Cris Florendo as Treasurer and Romy Jaravate as Auditor.
WIDOWS AND RELATIVES OF FILIPINO VETERANS FORMED AWARE DEC 8 IN LA (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) together with the Society of Guerillas and Scouts (SGS) formed Association of Widow and Relatives of Veterans for Equality or AWARE last Monday, at 10:00 AM December 8, 2008 at the Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center (HPMC) at Fountain St/Vermont, CA 90027. This as they commemorate the formal entry of the United States into the Second World War with the bombing of Pearl Harbor by the Japanese in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, 67 years ago.
WIDOWS AND RELATIVES OF FILIPINO VETERANS WILL FORM GROUP FOR EQUITY AND BENEFITS (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) together with the Society of Guerillas and Scouts (SGS) will hold an organizing meeting for widows and relatives of Filipino World War II veterans on Monday, at 10:00 AM December 8, 2008 at the Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center at Fountain St/Vermont, CA 90027. The event will mark the formal entry of the United States into the Second World War with the bombing of Pearl Harbor by the Japanese in Hawaii on December 7, 1941.
NEWLY ELECTED FACLA BOARDS ELECTS OFFICERS DEC.7 (tags)
The Coalition for A Better Community (CBC) 15-person slate led by former FACLA vice-president Rizalino Manuel that swept the Nov 16-18, 2008 Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) board of directors elections for the year 2009-2001 will meet on December 7th to elects its executive officers.
CBC SWEEPS FACLA ELECTIONS (tags)
The Coalition for A Better Community (CBC) 15-person slate led by former FACLA vice-president Rizalino Manuel that swept the Nov 16-18, 2008 Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) board of directors elections for the year 2009-2001 will meet on Nov. 30 to elects its executive officers. The elections was held and the counting of votes was conducted by a private elections agency hired by FACLA. The counting of vote and the formal declaration of the outcome of the elections was held in FACLA on Nov 16 and 18, 2008. The CBC made a clean sweep of the elections like what they did in 2001 and 2004 under the leadership of De. Jose Baldonado.
NO THANKSGIVING GIFT FOR FILIPINO VETERANS (tags)
The long wait for veterans benefits and equity still goes on as Thanksgiving Day sets in without the much awaited results from the US Congress lame duck session. According to JFAV representative and World War II Veteran from San Francisco, Mr. Reggie Nacua who went to lobby with the ACFV in Washington DC reported that the Senate instead passed in its hearings -the S. 3869 also known as the Filipino Veterans Support Bill.
SCARED GMA RAN AWAY TO PERU AS FILIPINO AMERICAN COMMUNITY PICKETS (tags)
OUST GMA, YOU’RE OUSTED! YOU’RE BUSTED! US puppet Gloria Arroyo just ran scared as she always does, this time to the APEC meeting in Lima, Peru. This while hundreds of activist from the ALLIANCE for a JUST and LASTING PEACE in the PHILIPPINES (AJLPP), ANSWER-LA and GABNET/LA and their allies turned out in full force Friday, November 21, 2008, 6 PM, with a picket and a rally in front of the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045, to protest her supposed reception for the community in the US.
GMA RAN AWAY SCARED TO PERU AS FILIPINO AMERICAN COMMUNITY WITH THE AJLPP RALLY/PICKETS AT (tags)
OUST GMA, YOU’RE OUSTED! YOU’RE BUSTED! US puppet Gloria Arroyo just ran scared and as she always does to the APEC meeting in Lima, Peru. This while hundreds of activist from the ALLIANCE for a JUST and LASTING PEACE in the PHILIPPINES (AJLPP), ANSWER-LA and GABNET and their allies turned out in full force Friday, November 21, 2008, 6 PM, with a picket and a rally in front of the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045, to protest her supposed community reception to the community in the US.
Filipino Cultural Show in Glendale, Dec.13 (tags)
-The Echo park Community Coalition (EPCC) announces that the Filipino Cultural Group, will present SAYAW, SIGLA.SAYA SA PASKO- A “Filipino Cultural Show” on Saturday, December 13, 2008 at the Glendale Civic Auditorium, 1401 N. Verdugo Road, Glendale, CA 91209. This early Christmas present is a fund raiser for some constructions and renovation at the St.Columban Filipino Parish in Historic Filipinotown. This historic landmark for Filipino-American history was built in 1965 and after more than 43 years needs much needed renovations.
CBC SWEEPS FACLA ELECTIONS (tags)
The Coalition for A Better Community (CBC)'s 15-person slate led by former FACLA vice-president Rizalino > Manuel swept the Nov 16-18, 2008 Filipino American Community > of Los Angeles (FACLA) board of directors elections for the year 2009-2001. The elections was held and the counting of votes was conducted by a private elections agency hired by FACLA. The counting of vote and the formal declaration of the outcome of the elections was held in FACLA on Nov 16 and 18, 2008.
THOUSANDS COMMEMORATE VETERANS DAY NATIONWIDE (tags)
Thousands of students,scores of veterans and hundred of community advocates marched during the VETERANS DAY nationwide in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, New York and other places - NOVEMBER 8, 2008, in Historic Filipinotown, Los Angeles. The march and Community Fair started and ended at the at LAKE STREET PARK,227 N. Lake St. Los Angeles, CA 90026. The Veterans Day festivities had started at 10;30 AM at the veterans memorial with an ecumenical mass and wreath laying ceremonies. The solemn tribute started with the national anthems sung by TINIG ng UCLA and the honor guards call on the line. And then the group of community leaders laid a wreath at the memorial monument. Dr. Ben Marte and Mo Nishida led the ecumenical services.
THOUSANDS COMMEMORATE VETERANS DAY NATIONWIDE (tags)
Thousands of students,scores of veterans and hundred of community advocates marched during the VETERANS DAY nationwide in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, New York and other places - NOVEMBER 8, 2008, in Historic Filipinotown, Los Angeles. The march and Community Fair started and ended at the at LAKE STREET PARK,227 N. Lake St. Los Angeles, CA 90026. The Veterans Day festivities had started at 10;30 AM at the veterans memorial with an ecumenical mass and wreath laying ceremonies. The solemn tribute started with the national anthems sung by TINIG ng UCLA and the honor guards call on the line. And then the group of community leaders laid a wreath at the memorial monument. Dr. Ben Marte and Mo Nishida led the ecumenical services.
AJLPP Blast Pro-Imperialist 2nd GFMD in Manila (tags)
On behalf of the of the Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) we express our militant solidarity for the all the mass actions and protests against the Manila ‘s Second Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD). The AJLPP West Coordinator Arturo P. Garcia said: “ The AJLPP and the Filipino American community in the United States strongly condemns the United nations (UN) pro-imperialist and anti-migrant GMFD framework and agenda of the conference in Manila. The agenda of the conference lay bare the exploitative foundation and consequences of so-called neoliberal globalization on the lives of migrants, refugees and their families.
AJLPP Statement on the Return of Jocjoc Bolante to the Philippines (tags)
“ The essence of justice is strained. It is not a drop of mercy from heaven but how the system explains and implements it” The Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) based in the United States, vehemently condemns the complicity of the United States and the US- Arroyo regime in facilitating the return of former undersecretary Jocelyn “Jocjoc” Bolante who was “ deported” back to the Philippines basically as a free man today, October 28. It was pathetic that the United States deported Bolante after refusing his asylum request and like in the case of Imelda Marcos the laws of the United States were used as instrument of making mockery of the laws and does not stand up for its core principles.
NO BAILOUT FOR CAPITALIST CROOKS- -EPCC (tags)
“Jail the greedy capitalist crooks, No to the federal bail-out to embezzlers, No burden to honest tax-payers!” This is the stand of the Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC in central Los Angeles as the Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the City Council on Tuesday denounced the $700-billion rescue plan for the nation's financial institutions, saying the deal provides too much power to U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson.
JFAV PURSUES PASSAGE OF THE HOUSE VERSION OF SB 1315, DISAPPOINTED WITH PELOSI (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) coordinator Arturo P. Garcia expressed this stand and say they are seriously disappointed with Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Congressman Bob Filner, head of the House of Representatives Veterans Committee who said that "S. 1315 is dead because the democrats do not have the 2/3 majority votes needed to pass it." JFAV also expressed disenchantment with the democrats when Filner further said, "Speaker Pelosi can crack the whip for the 40 or so Democrats holding out but she won't. She is concerned that their (40+ Reps) re-election bids will be affected by this vote. [Filner] does not agree but [he] does not have the whip.
AJLPP CONDEMNS US INTERVENTION IN MINDANAO (tags)
“We want peace now, stop the Philippine military offensives in Mindanao.” The Alliance-Philippines strongly demanded that the US-Arroyo regime stop all military offensives in Mindanao and return to negotiations. The AJLPP also condemned the US armed intervention in Mindanao. This as the number of war refugees swelled up to 300,000 from 210,000 in two weeks as the conflict escalates. The AJLPP also supports the stand of Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo that “arming civilians would not help the government’s efforts to restore peace in southern Philippines. He said, “We are against it, because violence can never be a solution. It will not solve the problem,”
The Tribute to Don White and Racism in LA (tags)
The long tribute to Companero Don White last August 10th at the Immanuel Presbyterian Church went well except it was filled with Latin American machismo and had racist undertones. It was a deliberate attempt to overlook a specific race- the Asian American Pacific Islander (API) communities which Don White worked well while he was alive.
TILL NO EQUITY BILL, PGMA US VISIT-A SPOILER? (tags)
The Justice for Filipino Veterans (JFAV) expressed dismay that the equity bill was not discussed last Wednesday, June 25. Instead, the legislative visit or the lobby by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo took precedence in the House of Representatives. She awarded the "order of the golden" heart in behalf of her government for US representatives even if the US lower house did not act upon the bill and discussed it on the floor. The information received from the veterans lobby group in Washington DC, the American Coalition of Filipino Veterans (ACFV) said the bill will a chance to be voted on the floor on Wednesday, June 25. But it was not the case.
PROP 98 TO ABOLISH RENT CONTROL CRUSHED (tags)
he people of California has spoken, They resoundingly rejected a state ballot measure that would have phased out rent control and barred government agencies from taking homes, businesses and farms for private development. The Echo Park Community Coaliton (EPCC) and the Justice for Filipino American Veterans(JFAV) is exceedingly happy about the result of the voting.". Arturo P. Garcia. EPCC and JFAV coordinator said.
MARCH AND RALLY FOR IMMIGRANT RIGHTS! (tags)
Massive mass actions for May 1 that were held in major U.S. cities was a resounding success. In scores of major cities like Los Angeles (30,000), Seattle, WA (6,000)San Francisco,( 10,000) New York, (10,000) . and Chicago (50,000), Filipino Americans immigrants and advocates joined up with their Latino immigrant allies to demand full rights and legalization for immigrants, a stop to ICE raids and deportations and workers rights during May 1 International Workers Day. Arturo P. Garcia, CDIR and AJLPP deputy national coordinator said: “while the bourgeois media tends to praise the police for “good behavior” and chide the rallyist for supposed the low-turn-out, immigrant groups were satisfied with the unity shown at the rally. For the third year in a row, after the repeal of the infamous HR 4437, the need for a comprehensive immigration reform and a pathways to citizenship was again thrust into the limelight and the national stage. It clearly shows the immigrant rights movement is alive and kicking, more united and consolidated.” Garcia added.
Workers/Immigrants US-Wide Rallies on May 1 (tags)
The Coalition in Defense of Immigrants Rights (CDIR) –USA and the Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) announced today that mass actions for May 1 that were held in major U.S. cities was a resounding success. In scores of major cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, New York.Phoenix and Chicago, Filipino Americans immigrants and advocates joined up with their Latino immigrant allies to demand full rights and legalization for immigrants, a stop to ICE raids and deportations and workers rights during May 1 International Workers Day. Arturo P. Garcia, CDIR and AJLPP deputy national coordinator said: “while the bourgeois media tends to praise the police for “good behavior” and chide the rallyist for supposed the low-turn-out, immigrant groups were satisfied with the unity shown at the marches and rallies all over the United States. For the third year in a row, after the repeal of the infamous HR 4437, the need for a comprehensive immigration reform and a pathways to citizenship was again thrust into the limelight and the national stage. It clearly shows the immigrant rights movement is alive and kicking, more united and consolidated.” Garcia added.
May Day Rallies Against ICE Raids (tags)
In response to nationally coordinated raids conducted by Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) the Coalition to Defend Immigrant Rights (CDIR) in Los Angeles will join the Press Conference of the newly formed Filipino American for Immigrant Rights (FAIR) and the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) on April 26, 2008 and the May 1 Rally Immigrant Workers Day March-Rally in downtown Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, more recent ICE Raids More than 200 immigrants have been arrested in Los Angeles this month. On April 4, more than 60 Mexican and Korean workers were arrested by ICE in Torrance and in downtown LA.
Bataan Day Protest April 10, 2008 in Los Angeles (tags)
“Money for the Filipino Veterans, Not for the War” With these slogans scores of veterans, community advocates, youth and students signified their protest in front of the monument for the veterans of the Spanish-American War at the Westwood National Cemetery near the federal building, 11000 Wilshire Blvd. and Veterans St. yesterday, April 10 at 5:00 PM “Today, after 66 years, the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) commemorate the 66th Bataan Day with a protest rally for the passage of the equity bill in the U.S. Congress.. declared Arturo P. Garcia in an interview with the media. “ If the US Congress can pass a resolution with 415 vote for a free Tibet against China, why can they not do the same with Filipino veterans?” asked Garcia. “ The equity bill has been languishing in Congress for 15 years,” “ What is wrong with Congress? Is this not a case of racism against the Filipinos and a case of China-bashing?” the AJLPP and JFAV declared.
Statement opposing anti-China campaign (tags)
We are opposed to the campaign of disinformation and demonization that is targeting the People’s Republic of China (PRC.) The timing of the campaign is linked to China’s hosting of the 2008 Summer Olympics. That the Olympics are taking place in China is of historic significance and great pride to all the country’s people. It was less than six decades ago that China emerged from a century of colonialist humiliation at the hands of the same big powers that are spearheading the China-bashing campaign today. Washington is providing financial, political, diplomatic and propaganda support to the racist demonization effort, supposedly because of concern for “human rights.” This is the same government that is directly responsible for the death of one million Iraqis since 2003. While one out of every three Iraqis have been killed, wounded or displaced since 2003 the US government is eager to have people in the US., especially students, protest any government other than their own. One pretext for the anti-China campaign is the fact that the PRC has trade relations with Sudan. The US wants to overthrow the government of oil-rich Sudan and replace it with a puppet. It has supported “rebel groups” who are prolonging the civil war. The people of the Sudan, who are suffering greatly, are cynically used as a fund raising vehicle by organizations that have raised tens of millions of dollars but have never spent a penny actually helping the people of Sudan, including those who live in the Darfur region.
Bataan Day Protest in LA (tags)
“Remember Bataan!” This was the battle cry of American soldiers during the Second World War. The battle cry was a call to avenge the American defeat and the Death March that the Japanese Imperial Army perpetrated against American and Filipino Forces that surrendered in Bataan on April 9, 1942. Today, after 66 years, the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV), an alliance of Filipino veterans, student, youth and community advocates announced that they will commemorate the 65th Bataan Day with a protest rally at the Westwood Federal building 11000 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles on April 10, 2008 at 5:00 P.M.. “Money for the Filipino Veterans, Not for the War” will be the slogan of JFAV, AJLPP and Samahang Pilipino at UCLA who were spearheading the rally.
FILIPINO VETERANS TO PROTEST APRIL 10 AT THE WESTWOOD FEDERAL BUILDING IN LA (tags)
Money for Filipino Veterans, Not for the War! The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) with the Alliance Philippines (AJLPP ) and Samahang Pilipino at UCLA will mark the 66th Fall of Bataan Day with a protest rally for equity and justice on April 10, 2008 at 5: 00 PM at the West wood Federal Building at the corner of Veteran and Wilshire Streets.
Pelosi and McCain: Pass the Equity Bill First Before Talking About Tibet-JFAV (tags)
Fix your own backyard. Compensate the Filipino World War II veterans . Pass the Equity Bill first, before you speak of justice and freedom in Tibet.” This was the admonition of the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) to Republican Senator John McCain and Democrat Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi who was strongly criticized by the Chinese government for meddling in the current Tibetan crisis.
California People’s Organizations Supports SEIU-UHW West Platform For Change (tags)
A number of community organizations and key Asian Pacific Islander leaders in California unanimously thrown their unequivocal support for SEIU United Healthcare Workers-West (UHW-West) and its Platform for Change The UHW-West Executive Board representing 150,000 health care workers in California and led by its president Sal Roselli, recently ratified its Platform for Change to express its avowed principles for building a successful international union.
CDIR Marks Martin Luther King Day, January 21, 2008 (tags)
The Coalition In Defense of Immigrant Rights (CDIR)-USA pays tribute to the great African American civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. today January 21,2008. “While we commemorate Dr. King and his greatness and the American people’s struggle, for justice and equality, the CDIR is however militantly preparing for the surge of anti-immigrant scape-goating in the face of the current economic recession in the United States”, the CDIR-USA coordinator Arturo P. Garcia said.
CDIR Expects Surge Of Anti-Immigrant Scape-Goating (tags)
The Coalition In Defense of Immigrant Rights (CDIR)-USA expects a high tide or a surge of anti-immigrant scape-goating in the face of the current economic recession in the United States. The CDIR-USA coordinator Arturo P. Garcia also expressed alarm over the move of anti-immigrant lobbyist Ward Connelly, the author of the infamous Proposition 209 in California to put into ballot initiative in five states propositions about race and gender equality. The ballot measures will have better chances of winning in those states like Arizona, Missouri and Colorado with high anti-immigrant bias and forces.
The Empire Strikes Back—PGMA Revival of Anti Subversion Law (tags)
The Philippine Peasant Support Network (Pesante)-USA vehemently condemned the recent pronouncements of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to revive the evil anti subversion law or R.A. 1700 of the 1960’s . For Pesante-USA, Mrs.Arroyo’s declaration only highlights the height of her callousness and political insensitivity. The Malacanang press office backtracked and denied the presidential statement. But the matter only highlights her much vaunted doublespeak.
On The PGMA Visit To Spain (tags)
“Mas vale la cola de un leon en la cabeza de una rata” The Philippine Peasant Network (Pesante –USA) vehemently condemn the patronage displayed by King Juan Carlos I of Spain as a head of state to President Gloria Macapagal –Arroyo of the Philippines on her state visit to the former colonizer country. Pesante also revolt at the ostentatious and arrogant display of Gloria’s illusion to be royalty, act like a queen and perpetuate herself in power, it is utterly disgusting and despicable and must be condemned.
Ruby De Vera won Her Discrimination Case in the Los Angeles City Council (tags)
It’s a victory for Ruby ( De Vera), a Filipina, It is a victory for the Filipino Community!” The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) Peping Baclig and the Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC) Jack Vergara today express elation that De Vera was vindicated. JFAV and EPCC also hailed the decision of the Los Angeles City Council to award De Vera a settlement of $ 125,000 for her lawsuit against discrimination and injustice. De Vera run for District 14 council office and came out 3rd place among 12 candidates in 2005. She later was fired as an office manager boss for “embarrassing his boss, Council Member Ed Reyes”, was awarded $ `125,000,00 settlement last week by the City of Los Angeles. The Philippine News correspondent Yong Chavez reported this event in this US wide weekly paper for August 22-28.
PEOPLE’S CORE/ JFAV PARTICIPATES IN SUCCESSFUL 5K RUN AND FILIPINOTOWN FESTIVAL AUG.4- 5 (tags)
The People’s Community Organization for Reform and Empowerment (People’s CORE) and the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) composed of Filipino World War II veterans and their advocates, ardently participates in the first Rotary Club of Historic Filipino 5 Kilometer Run Walk last August 5. The activities was capped by a 5-kilometer run on Sunday Aug.5 More than 400 runners and walkers participated on the event. City Council Member Wendy Gruel awarded the winners of the 5K Run/Walk chaired by Rotarian Donny Joaquin, the 5K Run/Walk Race Director. More than 20 veterans and youth acted as watchers along the route of the 5K run from Burlington/ Court street to Commonwealth/2nd Streets back to the finish line.
JFAV PARTICIPATES IN SUCCESSFUL 5K RUN AND FILIPINOTOWN FESTIVAL AUG. 5 (tags)
Justice for Filipino American Veterans ( JFAV ) composed of Filipino World War II veterans and their advocates, ardently participates in the first Rotary Club of Historic Filipino 5 Kilometer Run Walk last August 5. The August 4-5 activities was capped by a 5-kilometer run on Sunday Aug.5 More than 400 runners and walkers participated on the event. City Council Member Wendy Gruel awarded the winners of the 5K Run/Walk chaired by Rotarian Dony Joaquin. More than 20 veterans and youth acted as watchers along the route of the 5K run from Burlington/ Court street to Commonwealth/2nd Streets back to the fiish line.
JFAV JOINS 5th HISTORIC FILIPINOTOWN FESTIVAl, AUG. 4-5, 2007 (tags)
Justice for Filipino American Veterans ( JFAV ) composed of Filipino World War II veterans and their advocates, will join the 5th Historic Filipino Town Festival on August 4 and 5. Energized by recent victories JFAV veterans leaders led by Commanders Franco Arcebal,Peping Baclig, Jack Vergara and Nick Gadia will support the 5th year of commemorative activities on the designation by the city as Historic Filipinotown. The August 4-5 activities will be capped by a 5-kilometer run on Sunday Aug.5 More than 300 runners and walkers will participate on the event.
JFAV Pursue Lobbying for Equity Bills,Filipino Vets Win Commitments on Capitol Hill (tags)
Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV )Filipino World War II veterans and their advocates, energized by recent victories and their lobbyist Washington based the American Coalition for Filipino Veterans recently visited Capitol Hill (July 26-27) and thanked their Senators, House members and legislative staff for the progress on their equity pension and family bills. On Thursday evening, the ACFV leaders with JFAV veterans leaders led by Commanders Franco Arcebal,Peping Baclig and Nick Gadia commemorated the the 66th anniversary of the 1941 Military Order of President Franklin D. Roosevelt drafting Philippine Commonwealth soldiers into U.S. armed service.
JFAV Marks 66th USAFFE Day,US Filipino Vets March on Capitol Hill July 26 (tags)
No Justice, No Peace! The Justice for FIlipino American Veterans( JFAV) and the remaining Filipino World War II veterans in California will mark the 66th anniversary of the 1941Military Order of President Franklin D.Roosevelt drafting Philippine Commonwealth soldiers into U.S. armed service. On July 26, 1941, Roosevelt ordered the formation of the United States Armed Forces in the Far East (USAFFE) placing all Filipino forces under the U.S Command. This is in preparation for World War II. retired general Douglas Macarthur was designated as the field marshal placing the 120,000 Philippine Army, Constabulary, navy and aircorps and all Filipino ROTC reserve units under US Command. But despite this very clear consription order for 61 years, the Filipinos were discriminated,
The Recent Philippine Supreme Court Split Decision, Splits the Public (tags)
The recent Supreme Court split decision on the TRO filed by GO Candidate Koko Pimentel clearly shows how polarize is the Philippine society. The decision again highlights that justice is partial and serves the status quo. The decision, religiously followed by the Filipino American community in the United States, clearly shows how divided the Filipino society is and it is reflected among the 14 justices of the Supreme Court. In its recent decisions especially in the 2007 national elections. It just repeated the injustice perpetrated against presidential candidate Fernando Poe Jr in 2004 only now, it is against Koko Pimentel. Basically it refused to decide on the conduct of elections and refers the cases to the Presidential, the
JFAV Marks RP Independence Day/Battle of Bessang Pass: SGS Inducted in LA (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and People’s Community Organization for Reform and Empowerment (People’s CORE) and the Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC) commemorates the 109th Philippine Independence Day and the 62nd Anniversary of the Battle of Bessang last June 12, 2007 at the Los Angeles City Hall. As a part of the commemorative events, Council Member Herb J. Wesson Jr. of the 10th Council District inducted the newly elected officers of the SGSI at the Mayor Tom Bradley Room or the City Tower at the 26th Floor, Los Angeles City Hall at 200 N. Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012
JFAV Marks RP Independence Day/Battle of Bessang Pass: SGS Inducted in LA (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) and People’s Community Organization for Reform and Empowerment (People’s CORE) and the Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC) commemorates the 109th Philippine Independence Day and the 62nd Anniversary of the Battle of Bessang last June 12, 2007 at the Los Angeles City Hall. As a part of the commemorative events, Council Member Herb J. Wesson Jr. of the 10th Council District inducted the newly elected officers of the SGSI at the Mayor Tom Bradley Room or the City Tower at the 26th Floor, Los Angeles City Hall at 200 N. Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012
Gentrification or Development? (tags)
New infrastructure projects from both the public and the private sectors is prepping up Historic Filipinotown district. City Council President and Council 13 District Member Eric Garcetti made the announcements during the get-together breakfast meeting ?held at Remy’s on Temple Art Gallery last May 25. But still EPCC want to see more affordable and low-cost housing in central Los Angeles that will help the newly arrived immigrants and the low-paid workers living in Echo Park area.”?
EPCC Joins Bus Riders Protest against Racist MTA Bus Fare Hike; How About Our Iraq Money? (tags)
Last May 24, scores of Filipinos belonging to the Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC) and People’s CORE from Historic Filipinotown came to the MTA headquarters at the Union Station s to protest the proposed 200% MTA bus fare hike. They were in solidarity with the Bus Riders Union (BRU) and the hundreds of Angelinos who expressed their outrage over the bus fare increase.
May 9 Town Hall Meeting on Philippine Overseas Election Held in Los Angeles (tags)
Los Angeles—The first town hall meeting in Historic Filipinotown Los Angeles on the May 14 Philippine overseas voting was held last Wednesday, May 9 at 6;30 PM at the SIPA Multi-Purpose Hall, 3200 W. Temple St. The Historic Filipinotown hall meeting was attended by the Philippine consulate officials and a modest crowd of Filipino Americans. Consul General May Jo Aragon, Consuls Helen Barber and San Agustin who heads the overseas voting at the Los Angeles consulate. They clarified and answered many questions about overseas voting from the interested multi-ethnic crowd.
April 7 Coalition March Rally in Los Angeles Draws 75,000 (tags)
- Amnesty Now! Full Rights for All Immigrants, Now! With these resounding chants, more than 75,000 immigrants and immigrant rights advocates under the banner of the April 7 Coalition marched and rallied for full rights for all immigrants last Saturday, April 7, 2007, in Los Angeles. Unlike the disparate and fewer numbers of mobilized activities last March 25, 2007, the April 7 Coalition march for full rights for all immigrants became one of the largest to be held in Los Angeles after May 1, 2006. This brings a new momentum for the immigrant rights movement in California. The conservative L.A Times estimated the crowd as 10,000 while the Latino Channel 34 estimate of the crowd was 50,000.
Pesante-EFJP Los Angeles Remembers Mendiola Massacre (tags)
Filipinos and their solidarity allies militantly remembered the 20th year of the Mendiola Massacre of January 22, 1987, solemnly paid tribute to the 820 victims of political killings in the Philippines and reaffirmed their solidarity to the people’s struggle in the Philippines last night, January 22, 2007 at Remy’s on Temple Art Gallery in Historic Filipinotown, Los Angeles.
Pesante-EFJP Los Angeles Remembers Mendiola Massacre 20th Year and Political Killing Vict (tags)
Filipinos and their solidarity allies militantly remembered the 20th year of the Mendiola Massacre of January 22, 1987, solemnly paid tribute to the 820 victims of political killings in the Philippines and reaffirmed their solidarity to the people’s struggle in the Philippines last night, January 22, 2001 at Remy’s on Temple Art Gallery in Historic Filipino town, Los Angeles. Scores of Filipino Americans and their solidarity allies held a 20-minute ecumenical service led by Rev. Frs. Joe Tronco, Dennis and Rene De Guzman. A 12-minute short film “ The Golf War” explaining the situation of the Philippine peasantry was also shown.
BAKIT NANALO ANG MGA DEMOKRATA SA NAKARAANG ELEKSYON 2006 SA U.S. (tags)
Pagkatapos ng eleksyong 2006, malinaw na panalo ang mga Demokrata sa midterm elections nitong Nobyembre 7. Mahigit 21 bagong kongresista ang naipanalo ng mga ito laban sa dating mayoryang Republicans. Mahigpit pang pinaglalalabanan ang anim na pwesto sa senado. Nakuha din ng mga demokrata ang mayorya ng mga goberador sa 50 estado ng Amerika na isang pinakamalaking bagay sa loob ng 20 taon. Maraming nagsasabing ang mga matitinding eskandalo ang pumatay sa mga Republikano. Nariyan ang mga mabagal na pagtugon ng gobyernong Bush sa Katrina, ang usapin ng pagnanakaw sa gobyerno, kurupsyon sa financial system, ang Foley Scandal at iba pang mga lantad na usaping kinasangkutan ng mga senador at kongresistang Republicans tulad nina Tom Delay atbp.
Huling Pahimakas sa Obispo ng mga Anak-Pawis (tags)
Alay kay Obispo Alberto Ramento, alagad ng kapayapaan at Obispo ng mga Anak-Pawis, sa paghahatid sa kanyang huling hantungan-- Arturo P. Garcia , Oktubre 12, 2006
On the 65h Year of the Formation of the USAFFE (tags)
On the 65th Anniversary of the impression of Filipino Army to the United States Armed Forces in the Far East (USAFFE) today, on July 26, 1941 different groups held different kinds of commemoration all over California.FAV, People’s CORE are calling all Filipino American community activists, youth leaders and all concerned individuals and organizations all over the United States to be vigilant and struggle to have the Senate Bill or any compromise bill pass with the amendment for Filipino American veterans and their families.
JFAV Demands Justice: Investigate and Punish All Responsible for the Veterans Scam (tags)
The Justice forFilipino AMerican Veterans (JFAV) is monitoring the developments on the recently exposed theft of 26.5 million American veterans’ records last May 3 but which was not immediately reported by the Veterans Administration (VA) will have a long-lasting impact on millions of veterans. JFAV states that it is bad enough that the benefits of American veterans are being drastically cut ($15 billion cut in the last 3 years), now they fall prey to criminal syndicates due to the incompetence of the VA authorities.
Historic Filipinotown Flores De Mayo Festival May 27, “Philippine Idol” - April Boy Regino (tags)
The Historic Filipinotown residents and organizations will commemorate the centenary of the Filipino workers migration to the United States in 2006 with the holding of the 2nd annual Historic Filipinotown Mayflower Festival (Flores De Mayo) on Saturday, May 27 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Historic Filipinotown, Los Angeles. Philippine Idol- the famous singer-April Boy Regino who is in Los Angeles for his show was invited to perform during the festival.
JFAV Persevere Our Struggle For Full Rights for All Immigrants and Recognition, Justice an (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) is seriously monitoring the US Congress debates and deliberations on the current bill on immigration overhaul that will make a long lasting impact on the whole gamut of American lives in years to come. ? Arturo P. Garcia, People’s CORE immigrant rights and advocacy desk and JFAV coordinator said: “More than 1/3 or 4 to 5 million immigrants will be forced to hide deeper into the shadows when the US Congress decides to send them all home when it chose to implement the “temporary guest work program” that will divide immigrants, separates families and put up obstacles for undocumented immigrants in their quest for residency and citizenship.”
JFAV Greets Senate Vote Giving Veterans Special Immigrant Status as a Tactical Victory, (tags)
The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) greet the news that the US Senate unanimously approved by a voice vote on Thursday (Friday in Manila) an amendment in the proposed immigration reform bill that would allow Philippine-based single or married children of Filipino World War II veterans to join them in the United States, as a tactical victory in its 60 years of struggle for recognition, justice and equity.