Filipino WWII vets

FORT SHAFTER, HI — The oldest living Filipino WWII veteran in Oahu received the congressional gold medal, while also celebrating his 100th birthday. And on this special day, private first-class Francisco Benigno was surrounded by his...

SAN FRANCISCO — These students are learning kombatan — a Filipino martial arts system taught by grandmaster, Alexander Bautista Bayot France. Kombatan is a blend of styles that focuses on hand-to-hand combat and stick fighting. “Whenever...

As Filipinos commemorate “Araw ng Kagitingan,” or Day of Valor, and the sacrifices of WWII manongs for freedom and democracy — some Filipinos fear that very same freedom and Philippine sovereignty are now being threatened. Philippine...

SAN BRUNO, CA — The flags of the United States and the Philippines, followed by the flags of the U.S. Armed Services, marched through Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno. This is part of the...

SAN FRANCISCO —  Retired Fil-Am US Army Major General Antonio Taguba presented the congressional gold medal to two Filipino WWII veterans, Mr. Godofredo Geraldo, Mr. Jose Caballero, and a family representative of Mr. Mike Velarde. The...

WASHINGTON DC — This century-year-old Filipino waited three-quarters of his life for this day: a congressional gold medal award, in recognition of his service and sacrifice as a WWII veteran in the US military. “After 75 years,...

Another issue Filipino war veterans and their advocates have been fighting for us to make sure all surviving veterans and their widows get the lump sum payment awarded to these war heroes under former President Barack...

WEST POINT, NY — It was a gathering that the Gepte family never thought would ever come. Last week, the United States Military Academy community, family members, and Philippine dignitaries came together to honor a hero, Captain...

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – Two Senate Democrats introduced a bill last Friday that would speed up the visa process for the children of Filipino World War II veterans. Sen. Mazie Hirono of Hawaii and Sen. Harry...

HOLLYWOOD – The battle for veterans equity spilled into the streets of Hollywood, with Filipino World War II veterans and their young advocates holding their annual Veterans Day rally, calling for full recognition and benefits. “That’s...