Chicago Hall of Famers
The annual Chicago Filipino American Hall of Fame project (now on its 16th year of celebration) is a very prestigious awards ceremony in the Filipino American community of Chicago and the Midwest. It recognizes outstanding individuals for demonstrating uncommon, innovative, and civic responsibility, and who have excelled and achieved so much for the encouragement and betterment of the Filipino/Filipino American community.
It is an inspiring project that highlights the best in the Filipino and Filipino-Americans --- a joint effort of the 20-year-old Chicago Philippine Reports TV and the 25-year-old VIA Times Newsmagazine -- an outstanding annual community event that benefits a locally produced (and original) television show in Chicago, the Chicago Philippine Reports TV?(CPRTV). This event's other charitable recipients have included the TAHANAN Philippine Museum, the Bantay Bata Foundation, the Knowledge Channel, the University of the Philippines Centennial Committee, and the Pilipino American Social Service (PASS).
It honors high-achieving Filipinos/Filipino Americans & Friends, focusing on their achievements in their own field of interest or profession, and in their abilities and capabilities to promote the positive image of the Filipino not only in Chicago, but also in the entire United States of America, the Philippines, and throughout the world.
For this gala event, it awards symbolic crystal hall of fame trophies to its deserving recipients at a black-tie dinner-dance event being held at five-star hotels in Chicago every year. Attendance numbers about 700 to 1,000 annually, composed mostly of community and civic leaders and celebrities from Chicago and abroad.
RECIPIENTS OF THE 16TH ANNUAL CHICAGO FILIPINO AMERICAN HALL OF FAME 2010 HELD MARCH 13, 2010 AT HYATT REGENCY HOTEL CHICAGO DOWNTOWN SPONSORED BY VIA TIMES NEWSMAGAZINE & CHICAGO PHILIPPINE REPORTS TV (CPRTV)
JOSEPH I. ALDEGUER
VIA Man of the Year- Outstanding Businessman
Joseph I. Aldeguer was born in the Philippines. His family migrated to the United States when he was 3 years old.
He was the president of the largest mortgage firm, “The Mortgage Exchange”, doing over $10 Billion in real estate transactions for fifteen years. He was also a radio host for a financial talk show in Chicago ABC/WLS radio, ESPN/Chicago, KABC Los Angeles, CBS/KLSX Los Angeles, ABC/KGO Hawaii and ABC/KKFI San Francisco.
In addition, he became a host for “Making Money with Joe Aldeguer” show at CLTV/WGN in Chicago every Saturday morning for 2 years.
He was a TV co-host for “Pera Ko, Pera Mo” during their 1st season at the ABS-CBN International.
In 1997 was nominated the prestigious “Ernst and Young Enterpreneur of the Year”. IN 2001, was in the Hall of Fame for Via Times as the “Businessman of the Year”. In 2002 was nominated as the “Mortgage Company of the Year”. Featured in the front page of the New York Times as the top mortgage broker in the country. And many others.
In 2009, he co-produced with Dolphy the Manila Film Festival movie, “Nobody, Nobody But Juan” . This is the first Filipino produced film to hit mainstream theaters. He is planning to produce and act in many more movies.
In 2010, he is planning a co-production with GMA 7 the TV show, “Kawang Gawa”. He will be the host of the show that will feature charities for the Philippines.
Currently, his main focus is to help troubled homeowners save their homes because of the economy. He is using his experience in the mortgage world to help people stay in their homes instead of being foreclosed on. Too many people are giving up their rights as homeowners and letting the banks take their property away without a fight. His company, “Homeowners Advocacy Center, Inc.” is an organization that utilizes attorneys who are experienced and specializes in foreclosure defense. With this concept, homeowners are able to stay in their homes and are given time to recoup and reassess their present situation without being thrown out.
The second company is “Credit Card Litigators, Inc.”. This company specializes in helping people negotiate and settle their credit card debts and unsecured loans. Joe believes with credit card interest rates out of control people will never be able to pay back their debts.
The main goal for Joe is to share his financial knowledge and personal experience with our fellow countrymen. The current financial collapse have caught many people by surprise, including him, and most people have no clue what to do. He has assembled a team of experts to help people understand what can and can’t be done.
Joe believes, “ After the darkest of night, there comes light”.
FERDINAND ALIDO
Outstanding Engineering
Ferdinand Alido was the first Outstanding Engineering Graduate awardee of the Philippine Engineers & Scientists Organization (PESO) in 1996, and will be inducted as PESO’s 34th President in 2011, at which time he will enjoy the distinction of being the youngest elected PESO President. Born in Batangas City on December 13, 1973, he credits his parents Francisco and Ellie Alido, for bringing him to the U.S. and providing the means for a Catholic school education that laid the foundation for his current success. It is Ferdinand’s passion for learning, ability to lead quietly, and eagerness to embrace and promote the positive characteristics of the Filipino culture that make him a most deserving recipient of this year’s Hall of Fame Award in the Field of Engineering and Science.
At a very young age Ferdinand was recognized for being very gifted in math and demonstrating proficiency in computer programming. Ferdinand excelled as a scholar at Downers Grove South (DGS) High School in Downers Grove, Illinois where he graduated in the top 2% of his class and was President of the National Honor Society. As a member of the DGS Speech Team, Ferdinand developed his public speaking skills, skills he has put on display as a regular emcee of many large PESO functions and more recently at the 2009 Miss Philippine Independence Coronation Ball.
Because of his hard work in high school, Ferdinand was able to attend the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) in Chicago, IL on a 4-year Naval ROTC Scholarship. One of the highlights of his undergraduate years was completing a full strategic deterrent patrol aboard the USS Kentucky-SSBN 737 and achieving qualification in submarines. Also at IIT, Ferdinand was able to further develop and practice his leadership skills as President of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Alpha Xi Chapter. In 1995, Ferdinand received a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering with honors and was a recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to the IIT Community Award.
For the past 14 years, Ferdinand has worked at Navistar, Inc. a global manufacturer of commercial and military trucks, diesel engines, school and commercial buses and recreational vehicles, where he has been mentored by another Chicago Filipino American Hall of Famer, Edith Ardiente. In 2001, he received a Masters in Business Administration in strategic management from DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business. After learning how to implement enterprise database management systems through his coursework at DePaul, Ferdinand has developed to become one of Navistar’s primary experts in environmental management information systems. In 2009, Ferdinand received his second Masters degree. This time a Masters of Science in Environmental Management from IIT’s Stuart School of Business, where he is now guest lecturing for one of the environmental management classes. His advanced education at IIT has allowed him to increase his level of expertise in sustainability issues and become a valuable resource for Navistar's corporate sustainability initiatives.
As Manager of Environmental Affairs at Navistar, Ferdinand is currently responsible for leading the company’s environmental compliance auditing program and provides technical and regulatory assistance to Navistar operations in the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina. He is a certified hazardous materials manager, and has been instrumental in helping many of Navistar’s manufacturing plants achieve and maintain ISO 14001 environmental management systems certification. In 2009, Ferdinand received the Air & Waste Management Association’s (A&WMA) Outstanding Young Professional Award, not only for his achievements at Navistar, but also for his leadership roles within A&WMA, an 8,000 member international organization for environmental professionals, where he recently served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the A&WMA Lake Michigan States Section.
This year, Ferdinand hopes to enjoy every single moment he can spend with his new wife, the beautiful former Judy Sy. Judy is a nurse at Rush University Medical Center. Ferdinand and Judy are currently living on the Northside of Chicago in the Edgewater Beach neighborhood and are members of St. Ita Parish. In addition to his wife and parents, Ferdinand enjoys the love and support of his 4 sisters, 2 brother in-laws, 4 nieces and 1 nephew.
IRA AZULAY
Friend of the Filipino in Immigration Law
Ira Azulay is the CEO and a Member of AZULAYSEIDEN LAW GROUP (“AZULAYSEIDEN”) and oversees the business and operations of the firm, including its global expansion strategy. He is married to Rebecca Hoffman Azulay. They have one daughter, Mari (age 3), and they are expecting their second child in June.
Under his direction, AZULAYSEIDEN has expanded to include offices in Manila, Philippines; Phoenix, Arizona, Tampa, Florida; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Belgrade, Serbia, and San Antonio, Texas in addition to its main office in Chicago, Illinois. It also added smaller offices near Chicago in Rockford and Waukegan, Illinois. Mr. Azulay is always exploring other US and international locations, in order to bring high caliber assistance to more people in more places. Under his direction, AZULAYSEIDEN has grown into one of the leading US immigration law firms.
AZULAYSEIDEN believes that all persons deserve a shot at the American Dream. The current system is stacked against the foreign national and it is our responsibility to bring results to its clients, using a customer service first attitude, leveraging our experience, while making sure the clients are comfortable and understand. For all too often immigration attorneys, and for that matter attorneys in general, have forgotten attorneys are consultants, therefore AZULAYSEIDEN tries to bring a customer first attitude and traditional consulting approach to its practice.
Mr. Azulay emphasizes a focus on client service in every matter, including the importance of staff and attorney accessibility, and client understanding regardless of their primary language. Mr. Azulay and the firm strive to provide each client with high quality immigration solutions in order to help them make their dream of living and working in the United States a reality.
Among its more significant accomplishments is the class action filed against the US government in 2007 when USCIS refused to accept green card applications even after the visa bulletin indicated it should. Shortly after the law suit was filed USCIS resumed accepting green card applications and continued to do so past the original deadline as a remedy for the days it announced it would not accept applications. AZULAYSEIDEN focuses on all areas of immigration law, for families and businesses, as well as deportation defense. The practice also covers more uncommon areas of immigration, including areas like, Investor Visas (which stimulate the US economy) and the protection of spouses in immigration proceeding pursuant to the Violence Against Women Act.
Mr. Azulay is a champion of immigrant rights. Currently he is actively advocating for Comprehensive Immigration Reform (“CIR”). He is on the Policy Committee and Immigrant Justice Strategy Team of the Jewish Council on Urban Affairs, a member of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights pushing for CIR right now. He is a Member of the American Jewish Committee’s Bridging America Chicago Task Force, focused on increasing the stakeholders in support of CIR. He is the co-chair of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce Employment Law Committee, part of the government relations division, where he works to raise awareness about immigration issues and CIR. He is the vice-chair of the American Bar Association, Section of International Law, Immigration and Naturalization Committee. He is also secretary of the Illinois State Bar Association Law Office Management and Economics Committee. He is on Board of the American Association of Jewish Lawyers and Jurists. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, where he regularly participates in their advocacy campaigns for CIR, and other programs focused on raising the levels of professionalism among lawyers to improve the individual immigrant experiences.
In addition to practicing law, Mr. Azulay previously co-founded an independent film production company, Fusefilter Pictures, Inc. Mr. Azulay also headed business development for Vivcom, Inc., a company that pioneered a new way to index video utilizing MPEG-7. Prior to that, Mr. Azulay was vice president of Wired Planet, Inc., an online entertainment company, and ran its business, legal and financial operations. In September, 2000, Wired Planet was acquired by Listen.com, which was later acquired by Real Networks, Inc. (RNWK). Mr. Azulay previously practiced with the law firms of Perkins Coie LLP in the San Francisco Bay Area and D'Ancona & Pflaum LLP in Chicago. Mr. Azulay previously handled venture capital financings and initial public offerings.
Mr. Azulay received his JD, cum laude, from Boston University School of Law, and his AB, in History, from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor.
ERLINDA G. BARRANDA, M.A., M.Sc., MD, LPC
EDUCATION & PUBLIC SERVICE - National Award
Eastern University, Linda recalls her many activities, including serving as president of the Institute of Arts & Sciences (IAS) Women’s Club, FEU Tetragonai Adelphai Sorority of University Scholars, FEU Student Christian Movement, and FEU College “Y.” She garnered “A Most Outstanding Student “ FEUCSO cash award and a gold medal for “Best Debater” at FEU IAS. With FEU classmates, she campaigned in the Valenzuela For Good Governmen movement. When not busy at FEU, Linda spent Sundays as “Sunday School teacher” to high school young people at Knox Memorial United Methodist Church in Manila. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts cum laude, major in Psychology and English.. Together with her late sister, lawyer-professor Dr. Natty G. Barranda (former VT columnist and a 1993 recipient of the Chicago Filipino American Hall of Fame award, they worked as “summer Evanglists or Ministers” under the auspices of the General Board of Evangelism of the United Methodist Church.
Linda finished her M.A. in psychology at Claremont Graduate University in 1967. Her cross-cultural studies on the age independence concepts of Filipino and American adolescents was published in Journal of Social Psychology. Immediately after, a busy academic life. Linda was Assistant Professor of Psychology and a U.S. National Teaching Fellow at South Carolina State College, North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC, Norfolk State College in Virginia and was a US National Institutes of Health- National Institute of General Medical Sciences MARC Faculty Fellow at Syracuse University. Results and implication of her research was presented during the 1976 International Bicentennial Conference on Neuropeptides and was published in Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior.
Linda accepted a Harvard Fellowship and NIH Fellowship to study for a Master of Science in Behavioral Sciences and Maternal and Child Health degree at Harvard School of Public Health in 1977. Upon completion, she returned to the Philippines to fulfill a childhood dream: earning the Doctor of Medicine degree. She graduated from Bicol Christian College of Medicine, in 1984. Today, she is the international president of the BCCM Alumni Association. During the dark, tumultuous years of martial law in the Philippines, Linda was undeterred with her mission to help in educating her fellow countrymen. She was a visiting professor at Philippine Christian University in Manila, at Ago Medical and Education Center, at Bicol University and at St. Aquinas University in Legazpi City, a rare opportunity to give back to her “kababayans.”
She returned back to USA and did another ten years of public service and teaching for the State of Ohio. On this particular trip back to the U.S., she brought her parents along and worked for the state of Ohio as well as taught at Ohio State University in Marion for 10 years. She recalls that summer day in 2008 when a red sports car suddenly stopped upon seeing her. “Dr. Barranda, don’t you remember me? I am Jonathan Friedley. I am a pediatrician here in town. You were my teacher before and you inspired me to become a doctor.” Needless to say, Linda was so touched.
This time around, Linda elected to do what she was entitled to do since she is an alumna of a medical college in the Philippines. She was allowed to do post graduate medical internship at the Philippines General Hospital, Manila Sanitarium and Hospital, Bulacan Provincial Hospital and East Avenue Medical Center not only to enhance her skills as a medical doctor, but also to give directly professional counseling service to patients and do community organizing. (She had that rare chance to help increase awareness and address primarily solid and liquid waste management and flooding issues of Valenzuela City—involving everybody from the mayor to congressman to barangay leaders.) As a charter member of the MCH Association of the Philippines and a lifetime member of Association Philippine Physicians in America (APPA), Linda continues to be involved with medical missions with distinguished and dedicated Filipino doctors in the Philippines.
Bearing witness to her relentless public service commitment are brothers, Angeles, Jr. in Texas and Robinson in New York , both MBA degree holders, along with her sisters, Cres Barranda-Gacusan and Evangeline Barranda-Roeber, currently residing in Ohio with their respective spouses and children. For more than twenty years now as a dedicated staff of Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, past Lecturer of Ohio State University and the North Central State College, she does private consulting and counseling since she is also a Supervising Licensed Professional Counselor. She was a nominee in 2003 and 2007 for the Harvard Alumna of Merit Award.
Linda credits her parents for her accomplishments. Mother was Beatriz Sangalang Gatbonton- Barranda , an alumna of Harris Memorial College in Manila and was once the Treasurer of Harvardian College/Yap Academy in Candaba, Pampanga. Father was Atty. Angeles A. Barranda, Sr., from Legazpi, Albay, who taught history in that college in Candaba and served Legazpi City for ten years as an elected city councilor. To sum it up her philosophy: Live fully, love endlessly, learn continuously and serve God and country unselfishly!
BOB DACANAY
Entrepreneurship-National
Bob Dacanay is the founder, President and CEO of Primescape Solutions Inc., an employee-oriented organization that offers a full range of Information Technology and Management Consulting services to the Federal Government. Primescape is in the business of providing solutions to help organizations achieve their goals through performance optimization and technology enablement. Over the last twelve years, Bob has led the exceptional growth of Primescape to be one of the leading Information Technology companies. Industry recognition include the Inc 500 Fastest Growing Companies in America, Washington Technology Fast 50, Fantastic 50 from Virginia Chamber of Commerce, and Top 500 Asian Owned Business in the U.S. by Diversity Business. Primescape was also nominated as the Department of Treasury Small Business partner for two years in a row and received Small Business Partner of the Year Award by the Department of Homeland Security in 2009.
Bob attributes the success of Primescape to the core values of the corporation - delivering excellence with the highest standards of integrity.
Prior to founding Primescape, Bob led a global information technology modernization program for the Department of State. The success of the program was recognized by Government Computer News with the Agency Award in 1997. He has over twenty years of industry experience including senior management and business development positions in a number of Information Technology firms.
Bob earned a Doctoral Degree in Experimental Psychology at The American University in Washington DC. While pursuing his doctoral degree, he worked for the U.S. Army Research Institute where he researched and tested leading edge artificial intelligence and expert system technologies.
Bob is a member of the American Council for Technology, Industry Advisory Council and Vistage International.
PACITA GUINSATAO & Family
Model Family
There is a Burmese saying which goes... In time of test, family is best. And as much is true with the Guinsatao family headed by Pacita Guinsatao, fondly called Momsie, the late Santos Guinsatao, and their children Soledad , Lilia , Corazon , Rolando, Lerma, Nelia and Janet. The brood is now extended to include 10 wonderful and intelligent grandchildren.
The Guinsatao is one big, happy family commonly seen together in social gatherings, community-sponsored events and other private engagements. Together, they seem to emanate energy and people around them pick upon it with admiration and wishful thinking that theirs is a family like them. Amidst the hustle and bustle of life, they make sure that there’s a day in the week with each other. Once a year vacations are planned ahead so everyone can go. Special occasions are spent together, hosted by one of them. They might live separately but they communicate regularly. And while they have friends outside the family, they are their own best friends and confidante. Indeed, theirs is a bonding so strong, built on the foundation of love and support.
While the Guinsataos’ were chosen on the basis of their being cohesive, they are also role models for others to emulate. Coming from humble beginnings, they were raised and nurtured by two hard working parents whose only dream was to send all their seven children to school. Santos and Pacita worked day and night, on multiple jobs, and tried on all decent means of livelihood just so all their children can build a better life for themselves through education. And their tireless efforts, coupled with prayers and committed children, the ultimate goal was accomplished…. they all graduated in prominent universities.
Sol graduated as a registered nurse and is currently working in Evanston Hospital ; Lee as a Medical Technologist and currently working as the Marketing Director of the Omega Healthcare Group ; Cora, an Accountant, is helping her husband manage Krakau Business Computer System; Rolly (who is right in the middle of every 3 sisters is the only son),graduated as Civil Engineer and currently resides in Seattle working as an underwriter for a large insurance company; Lerma graduated as a nurse currently working with The Abington of Glenview Nursing Home, Nelia (our previous Woman of the Year Awardee),graduated from the University of the Philippines with a Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics and is the CEO and co-founder of Omega ; Janet graduated with a degree in AB Sociology and is the other driving force helping Nelia in the Omega Group as the company’s COO.
Just like any regular family, they are not free of difficulties nor spared from life’s challenges. Tragedy struck them in 2001 in the passing of the head of the family, Santos Guinsatao, who opted to stay in the Philippines before his death. To cope with grief, they drew strength and encouraged each other not to despair and made sure that Momsie was holding on. And she, together with her seven children, managed just fine.
Individually, they experienced failures, had mishaps, losses, and made wrong choices. But they rose up again after every setback prodded on by this strong spirit and family love that knows no condemnation but pure understanding.
The recognition of being chosen as The Model Family is just a validation of what the Guinsatao has already been… cohesive and supportive of each other, role models, innovators, and community leaders. And while they have traveled far and wide, they have deep-rooted values which are honing their next generation.
ROSE HIPONA
Dance Arts & Choreography
Rose Mesina Hipona was born in Manila, Philippines. The youngest of 12 children of Victoriana Puyat Patawaran and Pablo Magcalas Mesina, Rose always has had a passion for dancing. Her first exposure to dancing was when she did ballet at a young age of six, and continuing on to her involvement in modern Jazz in college.
She graduated B.S. Chemistry at Far Eastern University, and came to America in 1982. She married her husband Arnold in 1986 and had a son, Justin, in 1987. As a young wife and mother, her passion for dancing never waned, and Rose would find herself observing, if not practically participating in some choreographed dances around. and Her husband, Arnold, a Field engineer for AT&T, has been very supportive of her and passion for all her undertakings, including dancing.
In the late 90’s, Rose and her girlfriends formed a group called Cool Hips. In 2006, she decided to take her knowledge of and love for dancing to a higher level by first enrolling at Fred Astaire in Mount Prospect, Illinois. At this popular dance school, she was able to master intricate moves and difficult routines that she never thought she could do. From thereon, she has started competing in various dance competitions, and has enjoyed her winning streaks and, of course, her talent. To name a few, she won second place in paso doble dance competition, rhumba and east coast swing dance competition, and third place in American Tango during Fred Astaire Winter Ball Competition. Driven by further challenge and desire, she won first place on all dance categories, including Viennese Waltz in Fred Astaire Spring Dance Sports Classic Competition.
Showing his support for his wife’s passion in dancing, Arnold has been dancing with his wife for 13 years now. This dancing duo are now very active members of VDance Fever and FPC (Fatima Prayer Community), UBAS (United Bataan Association), and Chicago Dancesport Challenge Chicago-Chapter; In the offing for more participation, involvement, and dance networking are United Dance Club headed by Adel Calalay and Eli Blanco, and Chicago Dance Power headed by Neneth Miranda. These clubs have been so proud and supportive of Rose’s projects.
Rose is a volunteer Dance Instructor at the FPC- Senior Group of Glendale Heights. To this date, she has handled 23 cotillions, and has choreographed hundreds of exhibitions, despite of her missing her son, Justin, who passed away in 2005. Justin used to be his mom’s partner when she was teaching kids for cotillions. It is Justin’s presence that Rose feels when she is teaching teen-aged kids, thus giving joy to her heart.
Rose was a Hall of Fame Recipient in Latin Dance Salsa and Samba with Red Hot in 2007.
Rose’s motto - Life is not a party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance…
RAJA KRISHNAMOORTHI
Most Outstanding Asian American
Former Deputy Illinois State Treasurer Raja Krishnamoorthi has dedicated much of his life to public service.
As Deputy Treasurer, Raja was responsible for overseeing programs in the Illinois Treasurer’s Office involving the custody and administration of billions of dollars in state funds. Prior to his appointment as Deputy Treasurer, Raja served on the board of the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), becoming chair of its Audit Committee. During his service, IHDA helped provide thousands of low- and moderate-income families across Illinois with affordable housing. Later, Raja was appointed as a Special Assistant Attorney General to help start the public corruption unit in the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.
Most recently, Raja ran for the Democratic nomination for Illinois State Comptroller. On February 2, 2010, Raja won roughly 384,000 votes statewide but lost the race by less than 1% of the votes cast.
A longtime friend of President Barack Obama, Raja worked on Obama’s successful 2004 campaign for the U.S. Senate, serving first as the issues director for his primary campaign and then as a senior adviser in his general election campaign. Raja also advised Obama during his Presidential campaign and worked on his 2000 campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives.
Raja’s parents are immigrants from India and brought their three month-old son with them to Buffalo, New York, where Raja’s father attended graduate school in engineering. Later, the family moved to Peoria when Raja’s father received an offer to teach at Bradley University. Some 30 years later, Raja’s father remains on the faculty of Bradley University, and his parents live in the same home where Raja was raised. Raja attended public schools in Peoria, played junior varsity football and graduated from Richwoods High School as a valedictorian. Raja made some of his closest friendships in Peoria, and his years living in Peoria helped form the values and principles that guide him today.
From Peoria, Raja went to Princeton University, where he graduated summa cum laude with a degree in mechanical engineering and a minor in public policy. After he worked two years in management consulting, Raja attended Harvard Law School, graduating with honors. After clerking for a federal judge in Illinois, he joined a large Illinois law firm where he became a partner, leaving in 2007 to become Deputy State Treasurer. Raja stepped down as Deputy Treasurer in April 2009 prior to running for State Comptroller.
Raja, 36, is married to Priya, a doctor, and they have two children: a four year-old son, Vijay, and a baby boy Vikram. They live in the Northwest Chicago suburb of Hoffman Estates.
JANE QUIAOIT-MIRAN
Dance Arts-Folk & Choreography
A granddaughter of the late Honorable Teogenes Quiaoit, the first governor of Ilocos Norte and founder of Batac Rural High School which became the Mariano Marcos State University of Batac City, Ilocos Norte, Jane was born in Batac to Lorenzo Quiaoit and Cresencia Molina on August 22, 1960. She is the fifth child of the family of six. Since early childhood, Jane had shown her love for music and dance in which she was privately tutored. As she grew older, she became active by participating in school musical programs during her elementary and high school years. She finished her primary school at Batac Central Elementary School in the 1973, and then went to Eureka High School for her secondary education. She graduated in 1977 from Eureka and garnered the first honorable mention. She also topped the National College Entrance Examination (NCEE) in her school. She then went to Manila to pursue her college degree. Her interest for dance had to take a backseat to concentrate on a nursing career. In 1981, she graduated from Arellano University with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Nursing and graduated with the highest honor of Valedictorian and Magna Cum Laude.
Armed with a BSN degree, she bravely migrated in the US in September 1983, passed the Illinois Nursing State Board exam, and became a full-pledged Registered Nurse by February 1984. It was then that she was reunited with her love affair in dance when she joined the Bayanihan-trained Annac Ti Batac Cultural Dance Ensemble. This dance group was formed under the umbrella of the Annac Ti Batac Association (ABA) Chicago Chapter whose members are from Batac City. The group had performed in several ABA affairs in the US and Canada. As fate would have it, she met her husband Rey Miran in one of their performances and once again she had to turn her back on her art, but this time to start a family and to better her career. She then worked as an RN at Michael Reese Hospital, moved to University of Chicago and then to University of Illinois Chicago Medical Center where she is presently employed. She is blessed with three children, Laura, Raymond, and Jonah.
After several years of successfully juggling between family and work as a full-time nurse, she found her way back to cultural dancing. However this time, it is not to perform but to share her talent to the Filipino-American youths. In 1990, she volunteered her time to be the choreographer and became instrumental in the formation of the Samahang Kapatid Dance Troupe, a group spearheaded by Ruben and Merle Salazar whose mission is to promote the Filipino heritage among the youths in the Southern DuPage area. Since then, she had taught several native dances to close to more than 100 children from age 5 to 18 years old. She modified all the dances she learned when she was a performer herself to adapt to the small hands and feet and short attention spans of her young protégés. Samahang Kapatid or SK as it became fondly known started performing in gatherings around the Southern DuPage communities then slowly gained popularity in the Chicagoland areas and neighboring states. With the help and support from her husband, Jane produced numerous performance lineups since the group has been invited to perform from small birthday parties held in banquet halls to grand inaugural dinner galas held in 5-star hotels, various Chicago museum events and political functions for Mayor Richard Daley and State Secretary Jesse White. In the heights of SK’s popularity, the children have performed in various Asian community events outside Illinois like the Asian Moon Festival in Milwaukee (Wisconsin), CelebrAsian in Des Moines (Iowa), Asian Fest in Columbus (Ohio), and PhilFest in Tampa (Florida). The Samahang Kapatid performances raised funds for the Tsunami victims in Thailand, for the missionaries of Haiti, and for the recent typhoon Ondoy victims in the Philippines. In 2007, SK showcased their Cultural dances for numerous Simbang Gabi attendees and was able to raise enough funds to donate one house for the Gawad Kalinga project. The most memorable experience of Samahang Kapatid was when they collectively made a trip to Orlando, Florida in 2004 to perform at DisneyWorld.
December 2009 marked the final curtain for the Samahang Kapatid Dance Troupe. So this February 2010, Jane and the majority of the SK members ventured on a new dance group called Sulyap Pilipino Cultural Dance Company.
With Jane’s initiative, many young Filipino-Americans had learned to embrace their heritage. They are now able to appreciate and promote their Filipino culture through the art of folk dancing.
MS. VERNIE VELARDE-MORALES
Outstanding Community/Public Service
Vernie Velarde-Morales is the Philippine Department of Tourism’s Director for the Central Region of North America (USA and Canada). Her office’s area of coverage encompasses 19 states of the U.S.A. and 2 provinces of Canada.
Vernie is a Philippine Career Executive Service (CES) Director. Prior to her posting in Chicago, she served as the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Director for Administrative Services, responsible for Personnel Management, Human Resources Development, General Services Administration, and Information Technology. She also chaired and co-chaired several department and inter-agency committees, including one on her advocacy on Gender and Development. Before DOT, Vernie worked in its government corporate marketing arm, the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation, in the banking and finance industry, and the academe.
Currently, Vernie is involved with such travel-related associations as the: Midwest Chapters of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), Chicago Professionals in Travel (CPIT), South Suburban Travel Professionals (SSTP), and the Midwest Travel Suppliers Association (MTSA). She is also affiliated with the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD).
Vernie’s unwavering advocacy for Philippine Tourism provided a strong foothold for her successful implementation in Central US and Canada of such PDOT breakthrough projects as the: “Rediscovery Philippines”, “Meetings Make Manila”, “Tourism Volunteer 12” (V-12), “WOW Philippines”, “The Philippines: Explore. Experience. Return.” (PEER) campaign, and the “Philippines Specialist” program. She is also the lead coordinator for the “Adventure” and the “Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions” (M.I.C.E.) niche markets' programs for North America.
Among the testaments to Vernie’s commitment and efforts in promoting pride of country, heritage, and culture are: her cooperation with the John G. Shedd Aquarium officials on the “Wild Reef", a permanent exhibit that replicates the vibrant reef system of the Philippines’ Apo Island in Negros Oriental; her partnership with the Philippine Reef Gala Committee initiative in supporting Shedd's "Wild Reef" and the Philippines’ positioning itself as a top diving destination; making the Midwest Region a forerunner in DOT's Tourism V-12 Program (which mobilized overseas Filipinos in promoting travel to the Philippines), notwithstanding the higher density of Filipino Americans in the western and eastern regions of North America; the loyal and growing supporters and participants to the Ambassadors Tour and other Philippine tour programs; the positive and increasing media support of Philippine Tourism in PDOT Chicago’s area of coverage; and the acknowledged quick and effective servicing by her office of its constituents' inquiries and requests.
On top of these, the Philippines has figured prominently in travel trade shows of major associations, and in such popular Midwest Region consumer shows as: the NBC 5 Travel Expo, the Our World – Underwater Show, and the Adventures in Travel Expo (now named Chicago Tribune - Travel and Adventure Show).
Vernie finished her M.S. in Social-Industrial Psychology academic studies from De La Salle University in Manila, and her Liberal Arts degree, double major in Psychology and English, from the College of the Holy Spirit with a GPA of 1.43. She was an active student leader who held top posts in several school organizations from high school through college, where she was editor-in-chief of the College of the Holy Spirit’s literary magazine. Professionally, Vernie has undertaken several technical, executive development and management programs in the Philippines, Canada, Australia, and the United States. She is a two-time study grantee of the government of Australia.
Vernie and her husband Bob are members of Couples for Christ (CFC) and American Mensa (Chicago Area Chapter). They too are parent members of the Illinois Association for Gifted Children (IAGC). Vernie and Bob have 2 daughters, Monica Mae (16) and Michaela Joy (11).
DAVID J. PAULDINE
Friend of Filipino in Education
David J. Pauldine is President of DeVry University and Executive Vice President of DeVry Inc.
As one of the largest degree-granting higher education systems in North America, DeVry University provides high-quality, career-oriented associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in technology, science, business and the arts. Approximately 85,000 students are enrolled at its 94 locations in 26 states and Canada, as well as through DeVry University’s online delivery. DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org. DeVry University, a division of DeVry Inc. (NYSE: DV), is based in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill. For more information about DeVry University, visit www.devry.edu.
Pauldine joined DeVry in 2005 as executive vice president for DeVry Inc., where he oversaw the marketing and recruiting functions for DeVry University. In July 2006 he became President of DeVry University with the charge of increasing undergraduate enrollments while maintaining academic quality and providing graduates with the skills and knowledge to meet the needs of employers.
Pauldine has more than 30 years of experience in private, post-secondary education where he has held a number of leadership positions. Prior to joining DeVry, Pauldine served 16 years with Education Management Corporation (EDMC) where his last position was as president of The Art Institutes system of schools – and executive vice president responsible for Greenfield start-up operations. Also at EDMC Pauldine served as chief marketing officer, president of The Art Institute of Seattle and president of The Art Institute of Ft. Lauderdale. Pauldine began his career in 1979 as an admissions advisor with DeVry and subsequently served in a variety of recruitment management positions at DeVry.
Pauldine has been an active member in his communities and has served as a board member for several organizations including the American Red Cross, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Communities in Schools, and ASPIRA. He is also the past president of the Washington Federation of Private Vocational Schools and the Northwest Career College Association. Currently, Mr. Pauldine serves on the board of The Career College Association.
Pauldine earned his bachelor's degree in communication arts from the University of Dayton in 1979 and later earned his Master of Arts in leadership from The McGregor School at Antioch University in 1997.
JOSÉ BONG PEÑERA
Music
JOSÉ BONG PEÑERA, poet, pianist, arranger composer, writer and philosopher, is a household name in Philippine music. He is widely acclaimed for having successfully merged Tagalog lyrics with the Brazilian samba and American jazz. Some writers put it that he Filipinized jazz, the latter being an American product. Still others claim that he introduced Brazilian jazz to Filipinos though himself not a Brazilian. Whatever the case, Bong made history. His A Samba Song became Manila's anthem of the 70s and is still being interpreted by countless other new and aspiring artists.
His first taste of stage and theater was when he was choir director-arranger for the musical, Adventures of Bata-Batuta , a creation of the artistic writing team of Terry Joaquin-Bucholz and Mary-Ann Joaquin, and which starred Caloy Atayde. He went on to compose the music for PETA's Ang Awit na Hindi Matapus-tapos (Unending Song), the first Philippine jazz zarzuela, ever. His ingenious arrangements and live performance of the Repertory Philippines' Broadway hit Stop the World-I Want to Get Off is legendary. The music he composed for the movie Sinta is now a classic and won honors at the 1976 FAMAS Awards. He was voted Jazz Pianist of the Year 1980 and his group Best Jazz Group of 1980 in a nation-wide readers' poll conducted by Jingle Magazine. In 1985 he won the Aliw Award for Best Jazz Group. In spite of his brief presence in the Philippine contemporary music scene Bong made a mark that no discussion on Philippine music goes without citing the sophisticated trend he set, the impact or influence he exerted on the scene, circa 1975-80, and the singers that have shone under his musical guidance.
Now considered by many as a national treasure, Bong's legacy continues to this day as demand for his music continues and the number of artists emulating and interpreting his music grows. He is a popular subject of music classes and, most recently, of a documentary movie spearheaded by Jojo Gonzalez. In Z Men’s Zone, International Business World Publication Magazine, published January, 2000, his A Samba Song was chosen as one of the millennium's top ten Philippine songs.
Born took formal studies as a scholar at the Centro Escolar University Conservatory of Music. He obtained a Bachelor’s degree in English and Philosophy and graduated with honors from Maryhurst Seminary in Baguio City. He studied piano under the tutelage of Prof. Gloria del Castillo. But he later turned into jazz, and went on jazzing it up till he achieved star status in 1975 with his hit song "A Samba Song", sung in his native Tagalog, and which catapulted him to a unique fame and place in Philippine music history. That album of original compositions was followed by four other albums, all original compositions, and all best sellers: Batucada Sa Calesa under the CBS/Sony label, Bong Peñera under the Blackgold Records label and Diversions under the Penny Rose Productions label. Subsequently, he gave SRO live performances at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, played for the Marcoses, the Thomas Jefferson Cultural Center, and schools. He did TV shows, graced magazine covers, wrote for reputable publications and, finally, he co-performed with American jazz flutist Hubert Laws in a back to back show at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Bong turned into solo piano playing for three years in Hong Kong's Royal Garden Hotel. His musical growth brought him to American shores in 1985. In 1989 he recorded his fifth long playing album of original compositions in the United States. The title song, Samba Chicago won 2nd place in the Latin Category of the 1st TDK -Billboard Songwriting Contest conducted in 1989. He gave two Field Museum concerts, one on November 30, 1997 and the other on March 8, 1998. Both concerts marked the Philippine Centennial Celebration of a Voyage of a Nation. In October 8, 1995, Bong wrote and directed the music for Pintig Cultural Group's Scenes from An Unfinished Country directed by Chris Millado.
Bong is also an accomplished writer. He has written five books of poems, one of them, Prayers of a Captive, with his own water color illustrations, was published by the Daughters of St. Paul in Manila. He has also written five plays, two of which were staged in Baguio City, Philippines, in 1971-72. He was associate editor for his college school paper and has also written a collection of essays and short stories. His most recent musical creation is the All Broadway show, Its Showtime held at the Gawat residence last year on August 8. His musical arrangements and flawless keyboard artistry during this event featured some of the best of Chicago’s very own: Courtney Lance, Maria Girlie Pascual, Louella Maningas and John Mahady.
ALDERMAN TONI PRECKWINKLE
Friend of the Filipino in Public Service
Alderman Toni Preckwinkle has been a dedicated community leader for over two decades. Earning both Bachelors and Masters degrees from The University of Chicago, Toni dedicated the next 10 years to serving as a high school history teacher before choosing to run for Alderman of the 4th Ward. Since taking office, she has established a distinguishable track record of progressive and independent leadership. She was the recipient of the 1993, 1995, 1997, 1999, 2005 and 2008 IVI-IPO Best Alderman Awards and the 1997 Leon Despres Award. In addition to being a community leader, she is also a wife and mother: Toni is married and has two children.
Currently in her fifth term as the 4th Ward's Alderman, Toni has proven herself dedicated to revitalizing the neighborhoods of her ward, specifically through supporting the creation of mixed income and affordable housing. She made possible the construction, or rehabilitation, of over 1500 units of low and moderate income housing and secured a $35 million grant for the redevelopment of the Madden-Wells public housing project. Additionally, Toni co-sponsored two Affordable Housing Ordinances (1993 and 1998) that resulted in a 50% increase in city spending for low and moderate-income housing.
Toni has proven herself as an incredibly effective legislator. In addition to sponsoring the Living Wage and Affordable Housing Ordinances, she was a lead plaintiff in a lawsuit to institute a more racially equitable map of Chicago's ward boundaries. She also sponsored an ordinance that limits the establishment of payday loan stores (2000) and joined her colleagues in a lawsuit to replace punch card ballots with state-of-the-art technology. In addition, she was a co-sponsor of the anti-smoking ordinance which passed in 2005.
Toni has continued to fight for the resources to better serve all people of our community. Since 1999, she has secured $225 million for neighborhood improvements for streets, alleys, curbs and gutters, including the South Lake Shore Drive reconstruction. She sponsored annual Senior Balls, providing social activities for seniors, as well as, annual Health Fairs, providing immunizations and back-to-school physicals for youth and health care services for the entire family.As an Alderman, Toni has only continued her commitment to education, securing millions of dollars for the renovations of schools in her ward, including King High School, Shakespeare School, Ariel Community Academy, North Kenwood-Oakland Charter School and Price Elementary King High School Campus Park. Additionally, she co-sponsored Project Graduation, recognizing the achievements of our elementary school graduates.
She is currently a member of several City Council committees: Rules and Ethics, Energy, Environmental Protection and Public Utilities, Finance, Historical Landmark Preservation, and Parks and Recreation. Furthermore, Toni has served as the President of the Disabled Adult Residential Enterprises (DARE) in 1985 and 1986. She has been a member of the board of Directors of the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence. She has been involved in numerous other organizations, including the Harvard School Board, the Hyde Park Kenwood Community Health Center, the Hyde Park Kenwood Community Conference, the Coalition for Athletic Facilities for Kenwood Academy, the Friends of Murray School Lot and the Nichols Park Advisory Council as well as serving as the Political Action Director of the Near South Chapter of the Independent Voters of Illinois (IVI-IPO). In addition to Alderman and Committeeman, Toni has held the positions of Development Officer for the Hyde Park Neighborhood Club, Coordinator of Economic Development for the City of Chicago, and Development Officer for the Ancona School.
Throughout her career, Toni has proven herself as an advocate for change and reform. She has amassed extensive experience, crucial expertise and effective results that make her the ideal candidate to bring the real and responsible change we need in Cook County government.
CESAR PURAY
Sexual Medicine
Cesar Puray MD FAACS is past Chairman of Department of Pediatrics at South Suburban Hospital and past President of Southwestern University Medical Alumni in America.
He graduated high school class valedictorian then he obtained AA degree from San Carlos University, Cebu City, Philippines and a Doctor of Medicine at Southwestern University, Cebu City, Philippines in 1963.
He was chief of pediatrics in Leyte Provincial Hospital until he came to the USA in 1971. He had his internship at Resurrection Hospital Chicago, Illinois and completed his residency in Pediatrics in St. Francis Hospital in Evanston and Loyola University Hospital Maywood, Illinois.
He took and passed the Federal Licensing Exam in 1975 then he served as a physician in charge at the Community Adjustment Program Tinley Park Hospital until he and his wife Mila Diloy-Puray MD FAACS started their private practice at Puray Medical Associates in Flossmoor Illinois in 1977.
Dr. Cesar Puray received the Patnubay Award (counseling and therapy) from Gintong Panama Foundation 2002, Community Services award from FilAM TV Hall of Fame 2003, Asian Model Family 2004 from Asian Chronicle, Humanitarian Leadership Award from Chicago Filipino Hall of Fame 2005, Distinguished Couple award from Chicago Filipino American Lions 2008.
Dr. Cesar Puray reaches out to the underprivileged fellow Filipinos with medical support, marriage counseling, therapy and spiritual guidance. Together with his wife Dr. Mila Puray, they serve the Filipino American Community in USA and in the Philippines, providing free medical care and free medicines fro the poor.
A devotee of the Infant Jesus, the Santo Nino he and his wife, Mila (founding members) since 1980 have inspired and kept active the “Samabang Santo Nino” prayer group for many years in the Chicagoland’s Filipino American Community. This organization has supported various projects in the Philippines including support for seminarians; donations to the Catholic Churches; the “Word Made Flesh” foundation that brings spiritual teachings and ministry to the people; the support of homeless children in the Don Bosco Homes and the alter for the Forgiving Lord Chapel in Don Bosco Philippines.
He is the kind of person who does not forget his roots. He spearheaded a fundraising project for his beloved high school, the Hinundayan Leyte Catholic Institute. As founder and president of AFHI (Alumni & Friends of Hinundayan Catholic Institute), he organized a grand alumni homecoming, world reunion, and fundraising for his beloved high school. It was so successful that they were able to fund the library and learning center with several computers and installed railing around the school. Dr. Puray said, “in doing something like this, it makes me feel good that I am in a position to help my beloved Alma Mater. Hopefully, this will increase awareness of other alumni to look back and feel proud of their school, and motivate the young to do well at the same time”.
From their day to day office practice in Flossmoor Illinois Dr. Cesar Puray and his wife Dr. Mila Diloy-Puray are regularly consulted on sexual and relationship difficulties and challenges.
Driven by the need of patients in their office practice Dr. Cesar Puray and his wife Mila sought additional training in this field; and for the past 25 years he has worked closely with his mentor Dr. Domeena Renshaw, Director of Loyola University Sexual Dysfunction Clinic, and author of best selling book “Seven weeks to Better Sex”.
He is diplomate of the American Board of Sexology and Fellow of the American Academy of Clinical Sexologists.
In the words of Dr. Domeena Renshaw…“Dr. Cesar Puray is one of my most energetic, cheerful, competent colleagues. We have known each other for over twenty years since he sought training for sex therapy at Loyola where he has volunteered hundreds of hours.
His humor has been buoyant and infectious for both his colleagues and his patients. He encourages all around him to reach and attain their best. He is a tribute and a treasure to his family, his country and to this United States”.
He is happily married to Mila Diloy-Puray, MD, FAACS, Hall of Fame Awardee in medicine 2002, FiLAM TV Hall of fame awardee in medicine 2002, Speech writer, Motivational speaker, Life Coach; and Via Woman of the year 2005.
They are most proud of their wonderful children, son – Chastin Marc, BSIDS an IT Security Analyst at Corporate Walgreens in Deerfield, Illinois, daughter – Charelle Mylah, BSN, RN Supervisor in Orlando Florida, and daughter-in-law – Susan an Associate Manger at Astellas Pharmaceutical Co. Deerfield, Illinois.
BRADFORD A. TAN, M.D.
Pathology Medicine
As the Medical Director of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at CTCA at Midwestern, Dr. Tan oversees the development, implementation and performance of various tests conducted in the hospital. He plays an integral role in the health care team and actively participates in the discussion of the care of the patient. At CTCA, he is a member of a team that is committed to working closely with the patient and their family to deliver an individualized treatment experience based on the “Mother Standard” of care – the kind of care we would want for our mother or family members, anchored on the most advanced medical science and integrating a full array of complementary therapies. Dr. Tan is also the Medical Director of the Stem Cell Laboratory at CTCA, supporting the needs of the stem cell transplant patients.
Aside from being the Medical Director of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, he was also elected and is the current President of the Medical Staff of CTCA at Midwestern Regional Medical Center. Among his memberships with various other committees throughout the hospital, Dr. Tan is also the chair of the CTCA at Midwestern Clinical Leadership and Improvement Council, and the Transfusion Committee.
In 2003, Dr. Tan was named as one of the top physicians in Chicago by Castle Connelly. He is also named as one of the top pathologists in the Chicago area by the Consumer Research Council of America. Dr. Tan is a fellow of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). He is a member of various Pathology organizations, both locally and nationally. He also has an appointment as a Clinical Instructor at University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Medicine.
Originally from Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Dr. Tan is the second of four sons of Benjamin Ng Tan and Loretta Ang Tan. His love for Bohol is evident in his strong support of the Home Reach Foundation. The foundation made a commitment to establish a diagnostic center in Bohol in order to meet the diagnostic needs for the indigent families of the island. Working behind the scene, Dr. Tan has supported and helped in the selection process of the various instrumentations for the Bohol Medical Care Institute. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo inaugurated the institute in August of 2009. Aside from the diagnostic (Laboratory and Imaging) center, the institute has now expanded to include physician offices, a dialysis unit and a mammography section. Future development plans include installation of a CT scan, MRI and hyperbaric oxygen chamber.
Dr. Tan is a member of the Executive Board of the American Society of Cebu Institute of Medicine Alumni, Inc. (ASOCIMAI). He has supported and participated in various projects and medical missions to the Philippines.
He is married to Dr. Ailyn S. Uy of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, who is also a practicing pathologist, and very proud of their daughter, Ainah, who is currently a medical student at New York University, School of Medicine.
ELLEN P. TAN
Outstanding Community Service Leadership
Ellen, a native of Calamba, Laguna was born of late Agustin Elauria Paunlagui, a sugar technician working in China and the late Teofila Barcelona Mercado Razon, a housewife and a close descendant and niece of the late Dr. Jose Rizal, our national hero. Growing up, Ellen’s young beauty and strong personality was the center of attraction during her childhood and teenage years. During her elementary and high-school years, she was asked to join school activities, either for the role of Virgin Mary in a school play, or represent “Liberty” during Independence Day, or a “Dream Girl” candidate for junior and senior proms. She was always the choice to participate and grace the floats on many parades and occasions in her hometown. She was always involved in many school activities, such as member and officer of Student Council, as a muse or queen, as a PMT sponsor, etc
.
Ellen graduated with a bachelor of xcience degree in Education, During the time of working and blossoming as a very young beauty, Ellen was selected to compete for the Annual Miss Philippines title in 1960, making it to the top “5,” but lost out to her dear friend, Editha Vital. Soon after, she was discovered by Atty, Espiridon Laxa in a crowd of spectators when she was watching a film shooting around her neighborhood. From then on, she was billed as “Elena Razon” from the Tagalog Ilang Ilang productions. She made several films including her screen debut opposite the late Fernando Poe, Jr in the film, “Bilis Ng Kamay” and her second film, “Saguapaan Ng Patapon,” opposite this time with the late Jun Aristorenas. She also made films with great film luninaries such as Amalia Fuentes, Joseph Estrada, Dolphy, Nida Blanca, Jean Lopez, Chiquitto, her best friend, Carina Afable, Eddie Mesa, and countless others. She also appeared in a variety of television shows and was a regular guest on “Tawag Ng Tanghalan’ with Pancho Magalona, attended awards nights and graced radio spots. She retired from showbiz in 1967 when she met and later married, Esmeraldo “Mer Tan” on July 29, 1968 at the San Agustin Church. They are blessed with two children, Leah Tan-Montoya, a SUMMA CUM LAUDE, BSN graduate at the Loyola University in Chicago currently working at the Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital as Care Manager and Diabetes Education Coordinator, and son, Leandro “Lindy” Tan, presently working at the Alexian Brothers Medical Center in the Health Information Management Department as a Physician Liaison and Meditech Data Tech Analyst. In addition, they have been blessed with two grandchildren from Leah and Gines Montoya: Erick, 15 and Megan, 10.
Ellen and Mer have been happily married for 41 years. They have been residents of Arlington Heights for about 22 years now.
Accomplishments:
Calamba Association of Illinois, past president (2000-2002):
a) Started the Calamba Medical Mission Funraiser
b)Donated a monetary fund of $500 and assorted medicines for the Bahay Ni Maria(Home for the Aged)
c)Donated $5,500 to the Dr. Jose Rizal Memorial District Hospital
d)Donated 6,600 pesos for the renovation of the town parish St. John the Baptist
e)Sponsored three students at the Anihan Technical Scool for scholarship programs
Laguna Association of the Midwest, Inc., past president (2006-2007)
Under her leadership, the club was able to give moral and financial assistance to individuals and organizations that needed much-sought help for the victims of Hurricane Nina, Typhoon Milenyo and Leyte calamities.
Other Monetary donations include:
a) PACF (for renovations); b )Gawad Kalinga (ANCOP); c) Lions Club Campaign Sightghtfirst 2 (for the deaf and blind); d) Red Cross; e) Adopt-a-Barangay Project in Calamba, Laguna’f) Parishes in Calamba, San Pablo, Looc and San Pedro; g)Schools for special children in Mayapa and Barreto; h)Abandoned street children from Makiling; I)Sponsored 240 homes in Looc; j)Monetary fund given to individuals and families at the Dr. Jose Rizal Memorial District Hospital.
Chicago Fil-USA Lions Club, past president (2006-2007):
During her presidency, the club was able to donate the Magnifier Reader for the Budlong Library in Chicago. As the same token, the club had the opportunity to “twinned” with the Pampanga Lions Club in the Philippines. The club also became the “Model Club” within the Distict 1A, a distinction received by only a few around the world (thru the member’s generous support for the Campaign SightFirst 2).
Awards:
1) ANCOP Award 2) PACF (Puno Ng Pagkakaisa) 3)Angel of Peace (Red Hot Dance Club) 4) One of the Outstanding Women of the Midwest (Rhoton Foundation) 5) Melvin Jones Awardee 6) City of Calamba Mayor’s Humanitarian Award 7) Laguna Institute Recognition Award 8) Calamba Host Lions Appreciation Award 9) Chi-Filipino American Lions Club “Distinguished Couples of the Midwest” (along with Mer) 10) The Magnificent “7” Awardee ( Red Hot Dance Club) 11) Leadership Award (Golf Mill Medical Center) 12) 12 Most Outstanding Mothers of 2009 (PACF) 13) and countless others, including Past Presidents Awards and PIWC and PWC appreciations awards as well.
She is guided be her philosophy “God gives the greatest paradise to those who do the greatest sacrifice.”
DALISAY M. VILLALON
VIAWOMAN OF THE YEAR
(Outstanding in Nursing & Community Service)
The eldest of eight children of Federico and Librada Manuel of Niugan, Angat, Bulacan, Dely has been working as a nurse since her graduation from Manila Central University with a bachelor of science degree in nursing. She took up her master’s degree at the University of Illinois College of Nursing after her emigration to Chicago as a young mother. Currently, she works as Director of Nursing at a Hospice group. Colorful feathers on her cap are her five children May Lorraine, Ricky, Liberty Derrick and Mary Rose, and her beautiful fourteen grandchildren..Dely has been a resident of Northbrook, IL. for many years.
Dely’s community activities are varied…Vice President, Filipino American Council of Chicago; Board of Directors, Asian Human Services of Chicago; President, Auxiliary to the Philippine Medical Association in Chicago; Vice-President, Chicago Medical Society Auxiliary; President, American Filipino Professional Civic Alliance; Co-Chair, Asian Coalition Annual Lunar New Year Celebration; Overall Chair, Philippine Independence Week Committee; Vice President, Filipino American Concerned for the Elderly; Member of the Board of Trustees, Rizal MacArthur Foundation; Vice President, Filipino Service Leauge; Executive Vice President, Asian Festival, Inc.; Member, Asian Advisory Council to Mayor Daley; District Senator, Illinois Nurses Association (1989-91); Chair, Human Rights & Ethics Commission INA (1990-91); President, Chicago Philippine Lioness Club (1985); President, Filipino Woman’s Club of Chicago ( 1994); President, Chicago Philippine Lions Club of Chicago (2007-08); President, Auxiliary to the PMACl Auditor, MCU College of Nursing Alumni Association; Board of Directors, Chicago Philippine Lions Club; and Board of Trustees, Philippine Independence Week
Committee.
Of course, recognitions and awards abound for this Woman of the Year 2010….Certificate of Appreciation, Rizal MacArthur Foundation (1977); Most Outstanding Filipino of the Midwest, Cavite Association (1980); Outstanding Community Service Award, Filipino American Council of Chicago 1981 & 1989); Outstanding Service Award, NGHIA Sinh International; Outstanding Asian Community Service Award, Asian Coalition (1989); Outstanding Contribution Award, Director of Nursing & Administrators Council (1988); Leadership & Service Awards from organizations post-presidency; Chicago Filipino American Hall of Fame awardee in Community Service, VIA Times/CPRTV (1995); National Prism Award for Women of Style & Achievements, Phil-Time USA Magazine (2003); Certificate of Recognition, Circle of Empowered Women in the Midwest (2004); Outstanding Woman in Leadership, Filipino Woman’s Club in Chicago (1992); Mrs. Chicago Philippine Independence PIWC (2003); Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow, Lions International (2004)l; Outstanding Alumnus, MCU College of Nursing Alumni Association (2004); Elegant Woman Award, Fashion in Fashion Magazine (2005); Mrs. Philippines, Chicago Philippine Lions Club (2008-09); TOFA Aardee (Twenty Outstanding Filipinos Abroad, USA & Canada (2008); and Lion of the Year (2009).
GRACE TOMAS-TOLENTINO, Ph. D.
Mental Health
Dr. Grace Tomas-Tolentino is a licensed psychotherapist who has made groundbreaking endeavors in the Filipino-American and Asian-American communities in the treatment of adult survivors of childhood abuse and neglect, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Up to this date, Dr. Tomas-Tolentino is the only Filipino-American providing private outpatient psychotherapy to these populations in the Chicagoland area.
Dr. Tomas-Tolentino is the founder and director of Core Therapy Associates, Ltd., a group private practice based in Schaumburg, IL. Core Therapy Associates, Ltd. focuses primarily on the treatment of adult survivors of childhood abuse and neglect. Dr. Tomas-Tolentino specializes in the treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), dissociative disorders, self-injury, eating disorders, and other trauma-related disorders. She offers individual psychotherapy and couples treatment, and group treatments for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, and for those who present with self-injury and eating disorders. She is an advocate for the prevention of violence against women and offers treatment to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.
She maintains strong relationships with psychotherapists and psychiatrists, and other community health providers. She promotes education in Asian-American communities through speaking engagements and publications. She is a veteran columnist on the Mental Health section of the well respected Via Times News Magazine. She conducted a workshop at the Chicago Philippine Consulate on the topic of domestic violence. In addition, she receives inquiries from and networks with Asian-American organizations, including the Asian Human Services, Asian Health Coalition of Illinois, and Asian American Suicide Prevention Initiative.
She continues to strive in providing the Filipino-American and Asian-American communities information on the prevalence and impact of traumatic experiences of childhood abuse and neglect, sexual assault, as well as domestic violence. She puts emphases on the need to recognize familial strengths, to acknowledge familial and cultural factors that impede disclosure of abuse within or outside of the family, and to recognize the need to address life problems relevant to the experiences of childhood abuse and neglect, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Silence is neither beneficial to the victim and their families. She further believes that breaking the "taboo” in relevance to acknowledging the occurrences of childhood abuse and neglect, sexual assault, and domestic violence in the Filipino-American and Asian-American communities is of necessity to focus on preventative measures, and provide support and treatment much needed for victims and their families.
Dr. Tomas-Tolentino upholds a stance in mentoring and educating other psychotherapists. She offers individual supervision and consultation, workshops, and seminars to various mental health professionals. She is a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma & Dissociation and a listed provider through the Sidran Institute- both are leading organizations focusing on the treatment of trauma.
She maintains professional balance between being a therapist, a researcher, and a scholar. Along with colleagues, a recent publication in the Journal of Child Sexual Abuse focused on the manner adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse differ from adult survivors of sexual assault in their seeking and utilization of mental health services. Additionally, a most recent research focused on attachment, shame, dissociation, and sexual abuse characteristics in women survivors of intrafamilial child sexual abuse. She plans to continue with teaching, research, and publications.
Of much relevance in the successful maintenance of a secure life, she believes in a healthy balance with personal relationships. She is a mother to Grad (Gerardo Tolentino IV), her precocious and energetic 3 year-old son, and has been happily married a little over a decade to her husband Gerry (Gerardo Tolentino III), also a business owner and entrepreneur. They have a joyous household together with their beloved chow chows Brutus and Bosco. They are fortunate to be surrounded with families and close friends.
DAVID J. VILLANUEVA, M.D.
Medicine – National Award
David J. Villanueva, M.D., is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in private practice. He is the founder and Medical Director of D & E Medical Center in Sterling Heights, Michigan – a multi-specialty clinic of child and adult psychiatrist, pediatrician, family physician/bariatrician and psychologists. He has also served as Medical Director of the Child and Adolescent Services of Kingswood Hospital, Henry Ford Health System in Ferndale , Michigan. He was also President of the Kingswood Hospital Physician Association. He was Medical Director of the Adolescent Program of Carlyle Center and, later, Arborview Hospital in Warren, Michigan. At the same time, he was Director of the Acute Intensive Program and Senior Consultant of the Secure Residential Program of Children’s Home of Detroit. He is a Charter Member and psychiatric consultant of the Philippine-American Association of Family Physician and has served as the editor-in-chief of its national publication.
An expert in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), he was Medical Director of the Attention Disorder Center of Birmingham, Michigan until 1998. He was a member of the National ADHD Pediatric Advisory Board and has lectured extensively on the topic statewide, nationally and internationally, especially in the Philippines. He is also a consultant and speaker for FOCUS, an ADHD Advocacy Group of Southeastern Michigan. He is a consultant and member of the Advisory Board and Speaker’s Bureau for a number of pharmaceutical companies.
Speaking and teaching are two of his passions and he thrives by motivating and constantly teaching physicians, therapists, teachers and the general public about ADHD and other psychiatric disorders or issues. A very active lifetime member of the Philippine Medical Association of Michigan (PMAM) he has served in various positions. He is the ongoing chairperson of the PMAM Cultural Committee that raises financial funding for the annual medical mission to the Philippines and all of PMAM’s charitable activities. He is the incoming President of the Far Eastern University Dr. N. Reyes Medical Foundation Alumni Association, Michigan Chapter.
Dr. Villanueva hails from LaPaz, Iloilo City, Philippines to the late David O. Villanueva, a prominent Archbishop of the Philippine Independent Church and Gloria Jardio, an entrepreneur, business woman, seamstress and singer. Dr. Villanueva inherited his speaking genes from his father who was an eloquent orator who spoke Spanish, English and even Latin. He got the giving genes from his mother, who was also recognized in 1988 for her generous and charitable work and was bestowed the “Highest Media Award as Distinguished Personality of the Year” by Balita News, Achievers Journal and the Development of the Filipino Writers, Inc.
Dr. Villanueva knew at the very tender age of 5, that he was going to be a physician after stepping on a rusty nail and was about to be given an anti-tetanus shot. He blurted out stating: “When I grow up, I will be a doctor and I will give you the shot.” In 1957, the graduation from medical school of Dr. Fortunato Sunio, one of his favorite uncles, only cemented his desire to become a physician like him.
Dr. Villanueva was graduated First Honor in elementary grade. As a sophomore in high school he participated in the Annual Oratorical Contest which generally was for juniors and seniors. Against all odds, he took silver. As a high-school senior, he was the unquestioned leader of the school, being the President of the Student Council, Editor-in-Chief of the news magazine and Commander of the Preparatory Military Training, the high school equivalent of college ROTC. At graduation, he was the Most Outstanding Senior Awardee and had a record three gold medals, the Honor Medal, the Leadership Medal, and the Loyalty Medal.
Dr. Villanueva pursued pre-medicine at the University of the Philippines, Iloilo College as well as in Diliman, Quezon City, and earned a scholarship in music and dance and was lead dancer of the school’s dance troupe and choral group. He formed a band, composed several songs, and won accolades, and was featured in the papers as the city’s “playingest band”
At the Far Eastern University Institute of Medicine, he was the Editor-in-Chief of the newsmagazine, a position he replicated during internship at Dr. J. Reyes Memorial Hospital and Medical Center where he produced the Interns’ Annual Graduation Book.
He followed his classmate and spouse, Dr. Ethel Liganor-Villanueva to the United States and entered residency training at Wayne State University/Lafayette Clinic in Detroit, Michigan. He completed the six-year residency and child psychiatry fellowship in just four years. Upon graduation, Dr. Villanueva was bestowed by his professors and mentors the Most Outstanding Resident Award and he has been in private practice since then.
Dr. Villanueva is the recipient of multiple awards from various elementary and high schools, different Kiwanis groups, the Philippine Medical Association of Michigan, the American Hospital Association, the Filipino American Community Council and the City of Quezon, Philippines, stemming from his continuous and unselfish service in the community.
Drs. David and Ethel Villanueva have three children, Daniel, a businessman and wife Gerardine, a CPA live in Huston, Texas. Eimee has a Master in Psychology, is currently working at a Methadone Clinic in Michigan, and Eliza, who is doing a post-baccalaureate program in pre-medicine in New York City.
“Helping others and giving oneself to others is something I learned from my parents and relatives. It creates an abundance of joy and a sense of goodness and purpose for everyone, and I have no plans of ever changing that.”
Previous Hall of Famers
2010 :
Joe Aldeguer (Man of the Year - Outstanding in Business)
Ferdinand Alido (Engineering)
Ira Azulay (Friend of the Filipino in Immigration Law)
Erlinda Barranda, Ph.D. (Education/Public Service)
Bob Dacanay (Entrepreneurship);
Pacita Guinsatao & family (Model Family)
Rose Hipona (Dance Art-Choreography)
Jane Miran (Dance Art-Folk Dance Choreography)
Vernie Morales (Outstanding Community/Public Service)
Dave Pauldine (Friend of Filipino in Education)
Bong Penera (Music)
Cesar Puray, M.D. (Sexual Medicine)
RAJA KRISHNAMOORTHI
Outstanding Asian American)
Ellen Tan (Outstanding Community Service)
Grace Tomas-Tolentino (Mental Health)
Dalisay Villalon (Woman of the Year - Outstanding in Nursing & Community Service)
Dave Villanueva, M.D. (Medicine)
2008:
TERESITA RICAFORT CALDERON-ALARCON
Humanitarian & Civic Service-National
CONSUL GENERAL BLESILA CABRERA
Outstanding Service to the Filipino American
Community of Chicago.
EMILIE GABORNE DEARING
Community & Civic Leadership-National
REMEDIOS DELA CRUZ, R.N.
Nursing Service & Leadership
EMER DUCDUC
Engineering & Science
MAR DUREZA
Entertainment
OLIVA ENRIQUEZ
Community Leadership
JUAN (JOHNNY) FRANCISCO
Business Leadership-Travel Industry
RANDY GENER
Journalism/Theatre Arts
ESTER HANA
Music
BENILDA HIZON, R.N.
Nursing Volunteerism & Leadership
CARLOS JIMENEZ, M.D.
Man of the Year 2008
JENITA & ELPIDIO JULIAN & FAMILY
Model Family
NELIA LAUREL-LADLAD
Woman of the Year 2008
MICHAEL LERNER
Friend of the Filipino
LOURDES CORBO LIVAS
Spirit of Excellence in Woman
ARLENE MARIE A. LORICA, M.D., F.A.A.P.
Medical Diplomacy
ARUN SAMPANTHAVIVAT
Outstanding Asian American
2007:
GERRY AUSTRIA - Business Leadership-National
DIOSDADO P. BANATAO - Entrepreneurial Leadership-International
TITA RECOMETA-BRADY - Visual Arts
MARISSA V. CARIDO - Woman in Business
VICENTE O. ENCISO, M.D. - Medicine-National
LYDIA ESPINO, M.D. - Sports-Golf
AMBASSADOR WILLY GAA - Public Service-International
FLORDELIZ S. KRAMER - Spirit of Excellence in Woman
NANCY LOO - Friend of the Filipino in Media
AIDA R. MARTIN, PH.D.- Education-National
CZARINA MIRANI - Performing/Entertainment Art
EDEN OLARTE - Nursing
REV. NOAH PANLILIO - Religion
LORELEI S. PARADERO - Home Health Nursing Executive
ISAGANI C. PUERTOLLANO - Community Dedication
ALMA REED - Community Service-National
EDMUNDO F. RELUCIO - M.D VIA Man of the Year
MANUEL M. SANCHEZ, M.D. - Medicine/Medical Missionary
DANTE RAUL TEODORO - Humanitarian-National
DRS. GREG & MELINDA TOLENTINO & FAMILY - Model Family
LEONOR ALVIZ TSAI - VIA Woman of the Year
RON VERGARA - Entrepreneur
SAM VILLANUEVA - Engineering Leadership
2006:
DESIREE ECHAVEZ-ALFON - Heritage/Cultural Art
NORMA BAJA - International Woman of Goodwill
RINA LOPEZ-BAUTISTA (Peace Builder - International Award
VIC C. CAMUA, JR. - Community Leadership-National
EDIZON R. DAYAO - Music/Entertainment
TOTI FUENTES - International Award in Music Entertainment (*Dec.)
ROBERT GARD - Friend of the Filipino in Immigration Law
DR. CHRISTOPHER GUERRERO - Medicine
LILY LIU - Most Outstanding Asian
TERRY MISTICA MAGDONGON - Education
NONOY MENDOZA - VIA Man of the Year
JOSEF QUIROZ - Business
DR. FELICITAS RAMOS - VIA Woman of the Year
JOE REYES - Broadcast Media
RICK RODRIGUEZ - Ballroom Dance Education
MARIE ROSETE - Nursing
RUBEN SALAZAR - Community Leadership
SHERIE SLOANE - Young Achiever in Visual Art
ROMEO TABUENA - International Award in Visual Art
LARRY WERT - Friend of the Filipino in Media.
2005:
JUDY AGNO - Home Health Care Nursing Executive
GINA ALEXANDER - Fashion /Design National Award
FIDES CUYUGAN-ASENSIO - International Award in Music
Y. JUDD AZULAY, ESQ. - Friend of the Filipino
RYAN CAYABYAB - International Award in Music
DR. & MRS. CESAR CUMBA & FAMILY - Model Family
DRS. NIDA & EDWARD HERNAEZ - Medicine/Medical Mission
ALMA G. JAROMAHUM - Nursing
GENE LEE - Most Outstanding Asian
REV. DR. RICHARD MIRPURI - Religion
TILLIE MORENO - Entertainment
CELESTINA NAVAL - Aesthetic Art
EDDY OCAMPO - Dance Art
ROGER ODIAMAR - VIA Man of the Year
JOSE H. OMILA - National Award in Community Service
CORA PASTRANA - National Award in Media
DR. CESAR PURAY - Humanitarian Leadership
DR. MILA DILOY PURAY - VIA Woman of the Year
RODNEY TO - National Award in Performing Art
MILLISA VASICH - Young Achiever
JOSEFINA ABAYA-WEE SIT - Community Leadership
2004:
Joe Ahern - Friend of the Filipino in Media
Adrian Atizado - Community Service
Bernardo Bernardo - Entertainment
Corazon Calma - Education
Amelia Bamba Delfin - Fashion
Adele Diploma - Nursing Education
Marcel Esguerra - Dance Education
Eugene A. Dizon - Music
Dr. S. Sol Flores - Dentistry
Dan Gawat - VIA Man of the Year
Carolina Hernandez, Ph.D.- International Award
Lina Jonson - VIA Woman of the Year
Regina Paz Lopez - Human Spirit International Award
Carmen Manuel - Executive Leadership
Bernardo C. Marigmen III - Visual Art
Lourdes Cruz Matters, Esq,- Women's Advocacy (National Law)
Jessica Arong O'Brien, Esq. - Law
Felix Padlan - Business
Nieves Plurad Mayor - Aesthetic Art
Dr. Nunilo Rubio - Medicine
Joy Manuel - Community Service
Danny Tinimbang - Entertainment Production
Edwin Tumlos - Young Achiever
2003:
Emir Abinion - VIA Man of the Year
Manny Aguja, Esq. - Law
Lourdes Anonuevo, DDS - Dentistry
Rocky Aoki - Friend of the Filipino
Ambassador Lauro Baja. Jr. - International Award in Public Service
Juanito Bartolome, MD - Medicine
Edith Bilang - Visual Art
Robert Chavez - Aesthetic Art
Anna Fermin - Music
Dan Gawat - Entrepreneur
Maura Gonzalo - Religion
IBU Group - Entertainment
Wilfredo Imperial - Fashion
Raffy Lopez - Media Executive
Jesus Manalo - Sports (Bowling)
Neneth Miranda - Dance Art
Charles Mortel - Art (Photography)
Max Norte - Community Service
Jenita Julian - Education
Gloria O. Simon - Nursing
Drs. Reynaldo & Dalisay Sulit - Model Family
Rebecca Sy - VIA Woman of the Year
Fred Tsai - Engineering Executive
Eric Tsai - Executive Leadership
Crispina Unabia - Business
Eliseo Zerrudo - Accounting
2002:
Jonathan N. Abera, DMD - Dentistry
Ted A. Beatie - Friend of the Filipino
Drs, Tristan & Belba Briones & Family - Model Family
Lolita B. Compas - Nursing National Award
Aristotle dela Cruz - Business
Andy Gaston - Young Achiever
Arcadio Joaquin, Jr. , Esq.- Community Service
Lina Jonson - Community Service
Marilyn Liwanag - Public Service
Gigi Mapes - Dance Art
Consuelo Molano - Religion
Mario Patdu - Visual Art
Mila Pura, MD - Medicine
Roderick Relucio - Sports (Volleyball)
Glenn Rivera - Esthetic Art
Amabel delara Sizer - Executive Leadership
Elizabeth Vasich - Education
Romeo Vincoy - Entertainment
Luzviminda Wasseluck - Nursing (*DEC)
Angelene Youngman - Architecture
Cris Zamora - Music
2001:
May Buenafe Afante - Dance Entertainment
Joe Aldeguer - Business
Dennis Bermejo - Computer Technology
Willi Red Buhay - Visual Art
Perla Cudal - Music
Israel Desierto, Esq, - Law
Nilo Francia - Sports
Ramon Lazaro - Fashion
Chito Macatual - Song Entertainment
Dr, Rupert Mayuga - Medicine
Nonoy Mendoza - Media, National Award
Soledad Munoz - Education
Teofil M. Nayan, DDS - Dentistry (*DEC)
Angelina Policarpio - Business
Jacinto Regalado, Ph.D. - Science & Technology
Rosalina Robles, DDS - Dentistry
Atty. Gen. Jim Ryan - Friend of the Filipino
Rey Sapnu - Community Service
Gerry Tolentino III - Young Achiever
Crispina Unabia - Nursing
Rev. Fr. Anthony J. Vader - Religion & Friend of the Filipino
Dr, Raymond Verzosa & Family - Model Family
Consul General Emelinda Pineda - Outstanding Service
2000:
Ron Cabildo - Entertainment
Nestor & Elsa Castillo - Dance Art
Maricar Madrid Crost, Esq. - Law
Exequiel dela Cruz - Science
Basil Glenn de Venecia - Fashion
Richard A. Devine, Esq. - Friend of the Filipino
Jose D. Flores, Jr. - Business
Patricia E. Johnson - Accounting, National Award
Maw Dawn Lant - Community Service
Rufino Licos & Family - Model Family
Bishop Ray Llarena - Religion
Leonardo C. Malalis, MD - Medicine
Arnez M. Nisperos - Young Achiever
Cornelio SJ Obordo - Nursing
Gerardo A. Oconer - Engineering
Reynaldo V. Pascua - Education (*DEC)
Benjamin M. Rigor, MD - Medicine, National Award
James "Jojo" Stagen - Sports (Martial Arts)
Zeny D. Suansing - Business
Nimrod B. Tabang - Music
Lt. Gov. Corinne B. Wood - Friend of the Filipino
1999:
Olivia Rocha Aliga - Music
Violeta Beltran, MD - Model Family
JR Cadawas - Arts (wood-carving)
Daisy Cajigal - Community Service
Tita Delo - Nursing (*DEC)
Carmen Estacio - Fashion
Lilia Gaurano - Dance Art
Olegario Ignacio, Jr. . MD - Medicine, National Award
Alfonso Lanceta - Community Service, National
Gerardo Liwanag - Community Service
Sid Manalo - Sports
Cornelio Natividad - Business
Arturo Nisperos - Science & Technology
Ron Salazar - Young Achiever
Neddie P. Santos - Religion
Linda Simunek - Education
Patricia C. Spedale - Public Service
Enrique Villalon, MD - Medicine
Sec of State Jesse White - Friend of the Filipino
