By: Joyce Jameson
Once again, the vibrant Michigan Filipino-American community came together for an event that, year after year, had become a tradition eagerly awaited by every Filipino and neighboring community. Kalayaan 2025 rendered a colorful tapestry of performances and community activities, making it an unforgettable cultural event for Filipinos of Michigan.
Organized by the Filipino American Community Council of Michigan (FILAMCCO), Kalayaan 2025 commemorated Philippine Independence Day, intertwining the spirit of freedom, patriotism, love for our country, and a deep connection to our roots. Hosted by FILAMCCO’s President Ryan Rosario and Ruthy Rush, the celebration was indeed a success.
FILAMCCO’s dedicated dream team once again delivered a powerful message and experience, one that emphasized the importance of leadership, unity, and solidarity in achieving success. As the saying goes, “Teamwork makes the dream work,” and this couldn’t be more true for Kalayaan 2025. At the helm were Ceasar J. Sumanting and Arcie Gemino, whose dedication and commitment in their roles as Chairperson and Program Director truly shone through. Their leadership anchored the event’s seamless execution and inspiring atmosphere.
A Display of Community Spirit
The opening ceremonies began with the inspiring Parade of Organizations, led by their respective leaders—a true expression of a shared sense of purpose. The PEACUSA Choir set a heartfelt tone with a moving rendition of the National Anthem, awakening everyone to the consciousness and the spirit of freedom. Southfield Mayor Dr. Ken Siver delivered a warm welcome address that acknowledged the importance of the celebration and the contributions of every community member.
Freedom Through Art, Music, and Culture
From morning to early afternoon, attendees enjoyed full-packed entertainment, music, food, children’s games, and communal lunch—some called it “The Potluck Fiesta”, each table was filled with delights food that each organization brought for everyone to share.
One memorable segment was when children got to play the traditional Filipino games we used to play as kids, such as tumbang preso, Chinese garter, and patintero. The cultural experience was made possible by a team of Filipino educators who came to Michigan on work visas and volunteered their time to coordinate the games.
The activity was hosted by Lisa Bugg, and was generously sponsored by AAA Insurance – Bugg and Associates. Every moment was filled with laughter, learning, and the joy of reconnecting with the games and values that shaped our childhood.
Attendees were also treated to a delightful spread of Filipino cuisine, with delicious food proudly served by some of our favorite local Pinoy establishments—Julie & Ryan Philippine Cuisine, Ymas Ymas Begood!, and Pinoy Pastries. Their dishes not only filled stomachs but also stirred up memories and flavors from home.
A Celebration Made Possible by Generous Hearts
Among those who played a key role in making this year’s celebration possible were DTE, PAGE Toyota Honda Bloomfield, LARSA, the Center for Health Disparities Innovations and Studies, Jeffrey Vedua CPA, 168 Group, and Julie & Ryan Philippine Cuisine.
Additional community sponsors and partners also contributed meaningfully to the event’s success. These include the Philippine Chamber of Commerce Michigan, Klawsome, Christina’s Fashion, Sharmaine Mendez, Real Estate One, JRZ Luxury Pearls, Jerk Chicken & Ribs, Pinoy Pastries, Ymas BeGood!, Zini Vodka, ALIN, Miramar Collection, Exceptional Senior Care (ESC), Omnishield, FEG, Olga P Insurance Agency, A Better Solution In Home Care, Lifestyles, Access, Peace Corps, Exquisite Fashion Jewelry, Smiley Century 21 Realtor, David Insurance Group Agency, and other local supporters whose presence added depth to the celebration.
Fashion Show Spotlight
The fashion show offered a visually captivating display of Filipino-inspired designs. On the runway, 50 beautiful and talented models showcased their talents, beauty, and creativity, highlighting the artistic development of the Filipino community. The segment was led by Ruthy Rush, whose vision and coordination brought the production to life, with the notable participation of international model Rei Pearson, adding prestige and flair to the show.
FILAMCCO GRANT Award
The Kalayaan Grant for 2025 went to the Kiwanis Club of Cosmopolitan Detroit (KCCD) because of their outstanding community work and their commitment to Filipino-American unity. Through the dedication of Dr. Meriam, the Kalayaan Grant Awardees received appropriate recognition together with financial support, which made this year’s awards special for everyone who participated.
Public Dancing and Entertainment
The event concluded with public dancing, live entertainment, and an energetic DJ and his music, creating an open space for people to immerse themselves in the Kalayaan 2025 spirit.
Acknowledging the Heart of Kalayaan
FILAMCCO President Ryan Rosario expressed his sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of Kalayaan 2025, including his co-chairpersons, Ruthy Rush, James, and Liezl Santos, for their excellent work on producing the show and bringing it to life with DJ music, live entertainment, and video production.
Ceasar J. Sumanting and Arcie Gemino displayed exemplary leadership throughout the event, bringing dedication and excellence to their roles as Chairperson and Program Director. Alongside them, Jeffrey Vedua is very instrumental in maintaining clear and accurate financial records for Kalayaan, further contributing to the event’s overall success.
The event’s success relied on numerous volunteers who worked together to create the entire production. The production team consisted of LenLen Jenks, Rose Caoagas, Rei Pearson, Hilda Kittinger, and Boots Gabarda. Betsy Vincenzetti operated as a vendor for the event, and the registration process was handled by Rosemarie Coaogas, Meriam Stevens, Amy Risvold, Ellen Dioso, Joe Stevens, and Lory Sumanting. Josie Palu-ay, Bob, Salvador Pante, and Lavinia Mateo managed the organization’s covers and signage at the tables. Stage decorations and banners were created by Alford Thompson. The VIP FILAMCCO event was hosted by Tess Porcalla and Guyo of Michigan. Eleonor Jenks, Alford Thompson, and KCCD members coordinated the parade of organizations. The Ticket Drawings function was executed by Ellen Dioso. The First Aid responsibilities were handled by PNAM members, together with Nina McCaulley, Joy Segal, Maricel Ravela, Trinie Alair, and Vickie Atillo.
This year, the Kalayaan 2025 celebration brought the community together to celebrate its roots with music, art, culture, and unity. In honoring both the past, the present, and the future, the celebration became a living record of the enduring Filipino spirit.
By: A Message from Ryan Rosario, FILAMCCO President
Reflecting on the remarkable journey of FILAMCCO’s Kalayaan event, it’s truly inspiring to witness our transformation. From our modest beginnings in Warren, with limited amenities and a 500-attendee cap, we’ve transitioned to the expansive Southfield Pavilion, now accommodating 3,000 guests. This growth beautifully illustrates our resilience and vibrant community spirit.
Our attendance has soared to 2.5 times its original size, a testament to the unwavering dedication of the FILAMCCO Board members over the past 3.5 years. Their commitment and volunteerism have been the cornerstone of our success.
We extend heartfelt gratitude to FILAMCCO member organizations & Michigan Filipino-American community for their steadfast support and Pinoy Pride, which have been crucial in showcasing our rich culture and unity. Likewise, thanks to the generous backing of our 2025 sponsors, including DTE, Eastern Michigan University, Page Toyota & Honda Bloomfield, 168 Group, Vedua CPA, Julie Ryan-Philippine Cuisine and also the 30 + vendors, we have achieved this feat.
Thank you to everyone who has played a part in elevating this event, celebrating our heritage, and fostering pride among Michigan’s Filipino-Americans. Together, we continue to soar to new heights.
As we look ahead, let us celebrate not only how far we’ve come, but the limitless possibilities that await. Here’s to even grander celebrations, deeper connections, and a future brimming with shared successes. Mabuhay!
By: Dr. Leda T. Baluyot
In a vibrant display of culture, talent, and unity, Filipino teachers from Michigan made a powerful impression at the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration held at the Southfield Pavilion. Representing UNIFFIED – Michigan Chapter under the United Federation of Filipino-American Educators, Inc. (UNIFFIED Inc.), and GURO of Michigan under FILAMCCO, these educators didn’t just show up—they showed out.
Educators in Action: Teaching, Performing, Inspiring
Driven by a desire to serve and represent their community, the members of UNIFFIED Michigan Chapter/GURO of MI overcame work obligations and personal responsibilities to step up and take an active role in this year’s Kalayaan event. From quietly observing in 2024 to taking the lead in 2025, their growth as a group was nothing short of inspiring.
Their contributions were both practical and powerful: they designed and created custom table signage and vendor nameplates, helped with venue preparation, and most memorably, led the Palarong Pambata, engaging children in classic Filipino games—Laro ng Lahi—and rekindling childhood joy through cultural play.
Talent on Full Display
Three standout performances from UNIFFIED educators captivated the audience:
These performances weren’t just musical highlights—they were testaments to the depth of talent and heart within the Filipino educator community.
Rhythms and Heritage: A Dance of Identity
One of the cultural centerpieces was the dance presentation titled Rhythms and Heritage, which celebrated the richness of Filipino identity through movement, music, and sports. It was a visual tribute to the endurance, vibrancy, and creativity of the Filipino people, rooted in tradition yet alive with modern expression.
A Pinoy bystander watching the performances has this to say “Seeing them perform folk dances only added flavor and nostalgia to this year’s festivities and I couldn’t help but notice the crowd’s reaction – they were in awe! Such an impressive show!”
Rhythms and Heritage: A Dance of Identity
One of the cultural centerpieces was the dance presentation titled Rhythms and Heritage, which celebrated the richness of Filipino identity through movement, music, and sports. It was a visual tribute to the endurance, vibrancy, and creativity of the Filipino people, rooted in tradition yet alive with modern expression.
A Pinoy bystander watching the performances has this to say “Seeing them perform folk dances only added flavor and nostalgia to this year’s festivities and I couldn’t help but notice the crowd’s reaction – they were in awe! Such an impressive show!”
By: Dr. Meriam Caboral-Stevens
In a show of continued support for grassroots community projects, the Filipino American Community Council of Michigan (FILAMCCO) announced the recipients of the 2025 Kalayaan Mini-Grants during this year’s Kalayaan celebration. Building on the success of last year’s pilot initiative, FILAMCCO President Ryan Rosario reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to empowering local member organizations through funding support for impactful programs.
“This grant is our way of recognizing and uplifting community-driven efforts that reflect our shared values and cultural pride,” Rosario said during the awarding ceremony.
This year, five organizations applied, and four were selected for funding. The applications were reviewed by a panel of three independent evaluators, all chosen for their impartiality and non-affiliation with the applicants. The chosen organizations and their proposed community projects are as follows:
2025 FILAMCCO Kalayaan Mini-Grant Recipients
FILAMCCO also extended its gratitude to all organizations that submitted proposals but were not selected. “Your dedication is appreciated, and we encourage you to reapply next year,” Rosario added.
A Legacy of Support
The Kalayaan Mini-Grant program, now in its second year, reflects FILAMCCO’s mission to nurture leadership, encourage civic engagement, and promote Filipino heritage through collaborative efforts and community service. Congratulations to the 2025 awardees for their commitment to service and innovation!
By: Joyce J. Jameson
The Philippine American Cultural Center of Michigan (PACCM) continues to make remarkable progress. This progress is made possible by the incredible commitment and generosity of everyone who calls this community home. PACCM grows stronger with every shared hope and is deeply rooted in a shared vision of community service and genuine care for our fellow Filipinos and neighboring communities. It stands as a pillar, the heart of our community—a home base for dreams and friendships—where the vibrant Filipino culture is showcased for all to see and experience.
In my latest conversation with our PACCM President, Becky Tungol (Ate Becky to many of us), she shared that a significant milestone has been achieved with the transformation of the parking lot. From its cracked and fragmented state, it is now whole and newly paved, symbolizing the strength, unity, and the power to transform something extraordinarily challenging into something great.
With excitement, she shared, “The parking lot construction was completed during the last week of April, and it brings such relief and joy to see and feel the difference. I find it so symbolic to see the vision come to life and to feel its warmth: you witness the dedication, the desire to help, and the willingness to give—from their time to financial aid; every bit of generosity – big or small – is a blessing that helps us move forward. It’s truly heartwarming. Every burden feels lighter, every sleepless night is suddenly worth it—a true gift of love, priceless and incredibly moving.”
She added, “I want to extend my most sincere thanks to everyone who supported us, whether through volunteering, donations, or simply showing up to lend a hand. Sometimes, these dreams seem impossible, but everyone made them feel doable. So let’s never underestimate the power of people coming together for a common goal, and I encourage everyone to continue supporting us as we work to complete the requirements from the City of Southfield and secure the Certificate of Occupancy.”
Full of enthusiasm, our community leader also shared the great news about the upcoming Consular Outreach: This event gives Filipinos in Michigan the chance to access the Chicago Consulate’s services—passport renewals, dual citizenship, and notarial work—without leaving the state. “The goal is to obtain the Certificate of Occupancy before the highly anticipated Consular Outreach Mission on June 21.”She added, “We are excited to welcome the Mayor of Southfield as our special guest on that day. This event marks our first consular service at the new facility, and we are working tirelessly to ensure everything is ready. I’m especially thrilled because this outreach program will bring much-needed help to many Filipino families here in Michigan.”
And of course, she didn’t forget to share the latest update about our beloved Paaralang Pilipino. She said they had recently concluded their lease with World Medical Relief, and all their items had been moved out. Our president expressed, “We are deeply grateful to George Samson and the members of World Medical Relief for their generosity in providing the facility—it was such an incredible support and help during the transition. It made all the difference. It was a huge help when we needed it most.” She noted that preparations are already underway to resume classes in September, bringing more learning opportunities for our youth and the young at heart.
She also highlighted the exceptional team that has been the spirit behind the dream of PACCM and its ongoing success. “It is a direct result of their hard work, dedication, and wholehearted commitment- our board members, officers, and volunteers. Everyone lifted this project to new heights,” she said with pride. “It’s not just about donations—truly, it’s about coming together as one, treat each other like family, be kind, be happy, be generous, while looking at the same goal. One section at a time, through kindness and combined effort, our home away from home is coming together. From this, we learn that we can accomplish so much if we gather as a community and stand together to witness the incredible things that can happen.” She continued.
As we wrapped things up, she spoke with heartfelt gratitude: “That is why we are very grateful for all the generosity and support of the entire community, neighboring organizations, and the City of Southfield staff, Southfield Mayor Ken Siver, for the support that has been beyond compare.”
Another exciting update to add is that once all final requirements are met, PACCM plans to hold a flag-raising ceremony—a symbolic event to honor the dedication, effort, and love of all who have believed in and supported this dream. The date will be announced soon.
Stay tuned for more updates as PACCM continues to grow and thrive, driven by unity, service, and cultural pride.
By: Maria Amy Risvold, NaFFAA-MI President
The National Federation of Filipino American Associations–Michigan (NaFFAA-MI) proudly congratulates its newly elected officers for the term 2025–2027, ushering in a renewed era of leadership marked by energy, commitment, and vision. With the inclusion of two young and dynamic leaders from Michigan’s east side, the organization is set to continue thriving with vibrancy and unity.
2025–2027 NaFFAA-MI Officers
Board Members:
Sofy Bole, Val Garza, Lolita Guadez, Tony Kho, Hilda Kittinger, Lavinia Mateo, Nina McCaulley, Rose McCormick, Josie Paluay, Flor Penner, Connie Sumalde, Becky Tungol, Langelo Vargas Yalo
Parliamentarian: Loida Layno-Moses
Immediate Past Chair: Fe San Agustin
Advisors: Dr. Clarita P. Ketels, Dr. Ernestina Mac, Wilmar Suan
Ongoing Programs and Community Outreach
NaFFAA-MI continues to make a meaningful impact through various civic, cultural, and educational initiatives, including:
Advocacy Against Anti-Asian Hate
In partnership with the Chinese American Service League, NaFFAA hosted three virtual workshops this March as part of a national effort to combat anti-Asian hate. Under the guidance of Regional President Wilmar Suan, preparations are underway for a Hate Crime Awareness and Prevention Symposium to be held in June or July. This free hybrid event will be co-organized with Attorney Patrick J. Coletta, Chief of Hate Crimes Prosecutions, Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.
Looking Ahead
In a message from Secretary Lee Vargas, who also holds the title of Ms. Senior NaFFAA-MI Runner-Up, she emphasized that NaFFAA continues to be one of the most respected Filipino-American organizations in the country. She reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to democracy, peace, and mutual respect.
President Risvold also delivered a report detailing NaFFAA-MI’s accomplishments—highlighting its financial health, impactful programming, and active involvement in socio-political matters. Plans for deeper partnerships and improved collaborations with other organizations were also discussed.
As a proud member, formerly of NaFFAA-NY, who has witnessed the power of collective action, I recognize the foundational work of NaFFAA’s past officers and pioneers in Michigan. Their legacy proves that unity and collaboration are the keys to lasting success.
By: Ruthy Rush
The Philippine American Cultural Center of Michigan (PACCM) hosted its annual Spring Ball on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Larsa Palace in Warren, Michigan. Themed “King & Queen of Hearts,” the event celebrated love and commitment by honoring couples marking significant wedding anniversaries.
Attendees enjoyed an elegant evening filled with a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, and cultural dancing. A special recognition ceremony was held for couples commemorating milestone anniversaries and the induction of the new PACCM Board of Directors, highlighting PACCM’s dedication to preserving cultural traditions and strengthening community ties.
The PACCM Spring Ball remains a cornerstone event for the organization—an evening that brings together members, supporters, and guests to celebrate Filipino heritage and unity within the Filipino-American community in Michigan.
This year’s event was successfully chaired by Ruthy Rush and Josie Palu-ay who are both members of the PACCM Board of Directors. They expressed deep gratitude to the entire PACCM BOD for entrusting them with the honor of leading this meaningful and memorable fundraising celebration.
Gratitude was also extended to the PACCM Board of Directors, sponsors, guests, wedding celebrants, performers, volunteers, and all Filipino-American and Asian-American organizations whose contributions made the evening a true success.
Message Delivered By April Karl, Paaralang Pilipino Director SY25-26 during Gawad ParangalMay 2025
My Lola Fely was the strongest connection to my Filipino heritage. Growing up, she would cook these amazing Filipino breakfasts of hot rice, pan de sal, and corn beef with fried eggs, amongst other things. And I would come home to the house smelling like fried fish and the TV blasting the Filipino channel on full volume. She would also loudly and bluntly scold us in Illocano, lovingly, of course.
When she died in 2019, I felt like a piece of my culture died with her. That hole in my heart urged me to go to the Kalayaan for the first time in years. That summer, I took my husband and our kids to Halmich Park in Madison Heights, hoping to attach myself again to my culture. We walked through all the booths, many of them proudly displaying the Filipino flag, and while I was excited to be there, I felt somewhat out of place. We knew no one there and sat by ourselves while everyone else laughed and gabbed with their barkada. I vowed to change that.
As soon as I could, I signed up my son Logan for Paaralang Pilipino. And I’ve learned something about community since the 3 years we’ve been here: Community isn’t built in a day. Community is built when you consistently give of your heart for the betterment of others. Community is a consistent choice to live out kapwa.
And there is no other place that lives out kapwa than Paaralang Pilipino. Every Sunday, we show up for each other with enormous amounts of food, friendship, and a helping hand. I am inspired by my fellow teachers and volunteers every Sunday. I am so honored to call you my colleagues and my friends. We would not be here without you. You are the pillars of this school.
I am also grateful for the PACCM board and our leader, Rebecca Tungol, striving to create a beautiful space for our families. As a space that we can flourish and grow in for many generations to come.
Lastly, I am thankful for our director, Ruth Rush, for putting her heart and soul into this school and for our children for so many years. I am grateful for your guidance and tutelage this past year. Thank you for entrusting me and believing in me to help continue the Paaralang Pilipino legacy.
Our school year has ended, and now we are off for a well-deserved break. During this time, I want us to think about what I want Paaralang Pilipino to look like in the future. What memories do we want to create next year, and how can we make it possible? Ultimately, it is up to our collective actions to make our dreams a reality. Each individual here has been given a talent that is meant to be shared. What better way to share it than for the betterment of each other and our children?
By: Gerry Tablada
I get various compliments from people about my dancing, especially with the ballroom and partner dances that I do. What people don’t realize is that I have been dancing for a long time, and what they see is years of lessons and social dancing, and it started when I was learning Filipino folk dancing.
At a young age, like many of my peers in my generation, my parents forced my brothers and me to participate in Filipino folk dancing for the Filipino organization that they were a part of. When performing for various Filipino social events, I realized that Filipinos love to dance at these events, and I later learned that the Philippines has its style of ballroom dance, which I was very interested in learning. Fortunately, through my Filipino folk dance teachers, I was able to learn Filipino-style ballroom dance, with my favorite dance being the Filipino tango. Filipino tango was probably the most challenging to learn, since it has a unique counting pattern, which I later wrote a paper on in one of my dance classes in college. Learning to ballroom dance at a young age, my friends didn’t understand why I wanted to learn the “Old people’s dance”, since their parents were the ones doing these dances. Years later, I would get the last laugh when ballroom dancing gained huge popularity because of the various dance shows on TV.
Filipinos can be found dancing at just about any Filipino social event. When I was younger, it was mainly at the formal Filipino events where people would be ballroom dancing. Since I knew how to ballroom dance, it was very easy for me to ask someone who had never danced before. This impressed a lot of parents who had daughters who were close to my age. Of course, I always had the line of Titas who wanted to dance with me as well.
Formal Filipino events are not the only place you can ballroom dance. In fact, on the east side of Michigan, we are fortunate to have many dance communities in the area. To name a few, you have the Latin dance community, Michigan swing dancer, Argentine tango dancer, and many others, based on the style of dance, or a community can be the studio where people learn how to dance. Each dance community has its own unique differences, but if you love the dance style that you are learning, being with people who also love it will definitely enhance your dancing.
How do you get started? First, you pick a dance that interests you and take a group class at a dance studio. Group class can be a little intimidating at first. You do not have to bring a partner with you to a group class, since you will rotate partners during the class. However, if you brought someone with you and want to stay with that partner, you can, but I highly encourage you to switch, since everyone leads and follows dance differently. This also allows you to form friendships within a dance community. If you wish to further your dancing learning, I recommend attending dance workshops and taking private lessons. It might be tempting to just watch a YouTube video on dancing with the hope of picking up a dance. While it is possible to do that, a YouTube video will not be able to critique you like an instructor will be able to do. A dance studio may offer multiple group lessons, but I highly recommend focusing on one or two dances to start. Once you feel confident that you can dance them in a social setting, then add another.
You have invested time and money in learning to dance, so now you have to practice. The best way to practice is to go to a dance social. Most dance socials include a free dance lesson at the beginning of the social, so even if the dance lesson is not one you are currently learning, this will allow you to try another dance. Once the class is done, it’s time to have fun and dance, but I would highly recommend socializing with other dancers. Dancers come from all walks of life. You might find a dancer who has a business that offers a service that you need for your home and is willing to give you a discount.
Dance has many health and social benefits. By learning to dance, you will definitely improve your health, build your confidence, and even build your friend groups and networks.
What are you waiting for? Go dancing!
By: Wilmar Suan, CPA CGMA MST
I garden because the soil whispers a fundamental truth: life is a cycle. It’s a continuous unfolding of beginnings and ends, where what seems to wither often becomes the very substance that nurtures new life.
Early in my career, I envisioned success as a linear ascent, a straightforward climb marked by accolades and achievements. But a garden teaches a different rhythm. Nothing truly grows in a straight line. Seasons turn. Storms rage, then pass. Some plants thrive effortlessly; others fade. Some unfurl in ways I never imagined, while others succumb despite my most devoted care. Yet, I return to the earth.
There’s a profound humility in kneeling to the ground. You sow, you tend, you wait. The process is never instantaneous, never guaranteed. In gardening, I yield to the grander forces of nature, and in that yielding, I am taught patience. The illusion of control dissolves. You play your part, but the sun, the rain, and time are the true orchestrators.
The garden has shown me that failure is not a dead end, but a rich compost. Each plant that didn’t survive, every shriveled leaf, every half-eaten fruit—these aren’t simply losses. They are ingredients. They break down, enriching the soil, preparing the ground for future abundance.
My own life mirrors this truth. There were seasons when my career felt barren—a client slipping away, a proposal rejected, a venture that failed to root. Like in the garden, I questioned: Was it the conditions? The timing? Or some deficiency within me? But even in those moments, those perceived failures became the very groundwork for growth. I learned. I adapted. I cultivated greater patience and intention. The garden does not rush, and neither should I.
And in that quiet contemplation, I discover joy. The joy of a new leaf unfurling towards the sun, of blossoms appearing overnight like silent miracles. The pure delight of the first harvest—a warm tomato, imperfectly round, bursting with tart sweetness, undeniably alive. In a world consumed by screens and schedules, the simple taste of something grown by your own hands is a kind of sacred blessing.
Each morning, as I walk among the rows of herbs and peppers, the riot of blossoms and brambles, I don’t just see plants. I see my journey. I see deadlines met, people served, mistakes made, and grace received. I recall the novice days when I knew so little yet persisted in planting. I see the quiet, unseen growth that unfolded when no one was watching.
Gardening anchors me to the enduring truth that life is not solely about the harvest, but about the tending. It’s about showing up, day after day. It’s about the unwavering hope that even when dormancy reigns, something vital is stirring beneath the surface. And when the inevitable shifts of season arrive, I know the soil will be prepared, for everything—even what seemed to be a setback—has contributed to its richness.
Ultimately, it connects me to something ancient.
Older than ambition.
Stronger than disappointment.
As timeless as existence itself.
That’s why I garden.
By: Roy Coloma
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere these days—on the news, in your phone, even helping drive your car. Some people are thrilled about what it can do, while others are deeply concerned about what it might become. Is it a helpful tool or a serious threat? The truth is, AI is evolving rapidly and touches nearly every part of our lives. This article gives a friendly, down-to-earth introduction to what AI actually is. In future issues, we’ll explore specific areas in more depth.
Final Thoughts
AI is already part of our everyday lives—and it’s only going to become more important. While the technology can seem confusing or even intimidating, understanding the basics is a great first step. In future articles, we’ll take a closer look at specific AI tools, trends, and how they might affect your world. Whether you’re a teen exploring tech or a senior curious about what’s next, there’s something here for everyone. Stay tuned—and stay curious!
By: Roy Coloma
It was a quiet Friday evening. My wife, Lucy, and I were on our way to a party. As we stepped outside and walked toward our car, we suddenly froze. Sitting motionless in the middle of our yard was a massive Doberman—unlike any dog I had ever seen. Its jet-black coat shimmered under the streetlight, muscles taut like a panther ready to pounce. Its glowing eyes locked onto us with the intensity of a trained attack dog straight out of a Hollywood film.
We had never seen this dog before—not in our yard, not anywhere in the neighborhood. Concerned, we decided to swing by the local police station before heading to the party. We reported the stray, and the officers assured us they would send someone to check on it right away.
We got back just after midnight. The party had been fun, but we were tired and ready to crash. From the garage, we approached the door to the house. Just as I was about to unlock it, I heard it—a low, eerie growl that made the hairs on my neck stand up. I froze. From the shadows emerged two luminous eyes, and then I saw it: the Doberman.
I backed away immediately, heart pounding. I have a phobia of dogs, especially strays. Growing up in the Philippines, I was bitten so many times that trips to the health center for 21 straight days of painful rabies shots—three-inch needles stabbed into my back—became a grim routine. Lucy, ever the brave one (or maybe just really sleepy), offered to unlock the door and go in alone. I stopped her. “If that dog attacks you,” I told her, “you’re on your own. There’s no way in hell—or high water—I’m going near the dog.” Her courage quickly evaporated.
We decided to try the main entrance at the front of the house instead. But just as we turned the corner, the Doberman raced ahead of us and blocked the front door. Startled, we spun around and rushed back to the garage entrance. Again, the dog was faster. It stood firm in front of the door, unmoving, growling softly. We tried several times, switching from one entrance to another, and each time the same thing happened. No matter which way we turned, the Doberman was there—blocking us. It was as if it didn’t want us inside.
Frustrated, we returned to the police station. “Why didn’t you come take care of the dog?” I asked. One of the officers looked puzzled. “We did,” he said. “We drove by, but we didn’t see any dog.” Determined, a policeman agreed to return with us. When we arrived, the Doberman was still there—and this time, the officer saw it with his own eyes. He approached it cautiously, but the dog stood its ground and didn’t so much as blink. The officer said he didn’t want to shoot it and promised to return the next morning with a dog expert.
That night, we managed to open a window on the ground floor and climb in. Morning came, and I was hopeful the dog would be gone. But as I opened the door to step outside—there it was again, standing tall, blocking my path. Now we weren’t just being kept out—we were being kept in. Imprisoned by a dog.
During breakfast, I noticed something strange. The Doberman was staring at us through the glass—specifically at Lucy—with eyes not of menace, but of longing… and sadness. There was something human about its gaze. I decided to try and feed it. I quickly placed a plate of food just outside the door and closed it before the dog could react.
Later that day, the dog expert arrived. He was calm, almost serene. Without fear, he approached the Doberman, spoke to it gently, and took it by the collar. Amazingly, the dog followed him without resistance and quietly got into the back of the police car. No barking. No growling. Just silence.
That evening, we received a phone call from the Philippines. Lucy’s grandmother had passed away.
She had been very close to Lucy—her favorite granddaughter. And in that moment, everything fell into place. I am convinced her spirit made one last journey, crossing oceans and time zones, inhabiting the body of that Doberman… just to see Lucy one more time, to watch over her, and to say goodbye.
Why do I call this a Filipino ghost story? Because we Filipinos believe in things that can’t always be explained. We believe that spirits can linger, that love can defy death, and that the supernatural walks beside us, especially when our hearts are open to it. Unlike many born in the U.S., who believe only in the tangible and visible, we see signs and meanings in the unseen. This story isn’t fiction. It happened. And it’s just one of several unexplained events I’ve experienced in my life.
Maybe that’s what makes us who we are—a spiritual people, guided by faith, shaped by mystery, and never too far from the world of the unseen.