Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce News

Join the Conversation: The Filipino Forum invites you to talk story and take action on community issues

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:15:14 GMT

Kahului, MAUI — In celebration of Filipino American History Month, the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce, together with the Maui Filipino Community Council and UH Maui College Kabatak Club, will host The Filipino Forum on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. at the UH Maui College Pilina Building Events Center (former Student Lounge).

This event invites the community to an evening of meaningful conversation and connection, featuring local leaders, professionals, and changemakers who will share their experiences and insights on the issues shaping the Filipino community on Maui today. Through a series of panel discussions and an open roundtable, the forum will explore topics such as workforce challenges, the recovery of Lahaina, and the spirit of resilience and innovation that continues to define Filipinos across Hawai‘i and around the world.

Among the featured discussions are Beyond the Labor Shortage: The Filipino Workforce as Frontliners of Aloha, a conversation with a J1 teacher from the Philippines, a healthcare professional, and a union leader about the realities of labor shortages, cultural nuances, and housing; and Cooking Up Resilience: Filipino Chefs on Innovation and Survival, highlighting the creative ways Maui’s Filipino chefs are adapting and thriving in a difficult economy.

Special guest Nestor Ugale, Board Chairman of Kaibigan ng Lahaina, will also provide updates on the organization’s ongoing recovery programs for Lahaina’s Filipino community—sharing stories of hope, collaboration, and progress following the 2023 wildfires.

The evening will conclude with In Conversation: The Filipino Forum Roundtable, an open dialogue where attendees and speakers share reflections, ask questions, and exchange ideas for building a stronger, more connected community.

“The challenges we face here on Maui mirror those across Hawai‘i and the broader Filipino experience,” said Dominic Suguitan, president of the Maui Filipino Chamber. “This forum is a space to talk openly, learn from each other, and inspire action.”

The Filipino Forum is free and open to the public. Register at mauifilipinochamber.com. Refreshments will be provided.

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Maui Filipino Chamber announces 2025 Gintong Pamana Leadership and Scholarship Awardees

Tue, 20 May 2025 00:19:55 GMT

Maui Filipino Chamber announces 2025 Gintong Pamana Leadership and Scholarship Awardees

Kahului, Hawaii – The Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Gintong Pamana Leadership and Scholarship Awards. These awards recognize outstanding members of the Maui Filipino community who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, professional excellence, and a steadfast commitment to serving the community, as well as students who are receiving $1000 scholarships.

This year is the event’s 30th anniversary, and the Chamber is calling on past recipients to also join the much anticipated celebration.

2025 Gintong Pamana Leadership Awardees:

Jessica Acop, Program Director at Maui Health, is a pioneering healthcare leader known for building and scaling medical facilities and championing access to quality care for underserved communities. From launching free-standing emergency rooms in Texas to managing Maui’s first wound care clinic, her work has improved patient outcomes and strengthened healthcare infrastructure. In the wake of the Lahaina fires, she mobilized her department to provide critical care and secured vital resources through national partnerships. An advocate for mentorship and education, Jessica’s leadership has been recognized nationally, including the Restorix award in 2023. A proud Indigenous Filipina of the Ibaloi tribe, she brings her values of resilience, service, and community to every role she undertakes.

Everett Balmores, Communications Systems Specialist with the Maui Emergency Management Agency, exemplifies quiet leadership and steadfast service. With a background spanning emergency management, hospitality safety, and retail leadership, Everett plays a vital role in coordinating communications infrastructure and public alert systems across Maui County. During the 2023 Lahaina wildfires, while personally impacted by the loss of his family home, Everett continued to serve on the front lines—supporting local, state, and federal response teams with unwavering dedication. Known for his calm presence, humility, and deep sense of duty, Everett’s leadership in times of crisis reflects a profound commitment to both his work and his community.

Joel Navarro, CEO of the Maui Pono Foundation, is a longtime West Maui resident whose leadership spans real estate, finance, youth development, and disaster recovery. With over 30 years of community involvement—from banking and title services to youth sports and education—Joel now leads one of Maui’s most impactful wildfire recovery nonprofits. Under his guidance, the foundation has distributed nearly $2 million in direct aid, small business support, and community resilience projects. A steadfast advocate for West Maui, Joel also serves on the Lahainaluna High School Foundation board, leads the Lahaina Junior Golf Association, and chairs the Legacy Cup Golf Tournament, all while preserving the values and spirit of Lahaina through dedicated service.

Chef Bernardo “JR” Oao, owner of several restaurants under Oao Sushi LLC, embodies the Filipino immigrant dream through resilience, humility, and heart. Originally from Isabela, Philippines, JR began his culinary journey as a dishwasher, working tirelessly to become a master sushi chef. In 2022, he opened his first food truck, which quickly grew into a thriving restaurant brand with three locations across Maui: Oao in Wailea, Oao Sushi Go in Kahului, and Hachi by Oao in Kihei. A devoted community supporter, JR has provided aid to Lahaina fire victims, sponsored youth athletics, and actively serves through his church. His story is one of faith, perseverance, and a deep commitment to giving back.

Jingo Magic Tamayo is a seasoned media professional, community leader, and cultural advocate whose broadcasting career began in the late 1980s with the Manila Broadcasting Company, where he served as Program Director. After immigrating to the U.S., he moved to Maui in 2013 and helped establish the independent radio station KPMW. Through his prime-time show Biag Ti Hawayano, which became the top evening program for nearly two years, Jingo amplified Filipino voices and promoted cultural pride. He also served as a court interpreter, helping Filipino clients navigate the legal system. During the 2023 Lahaina fire, he stood alongside the Philippine Consul General, delivering critical live updates on DZRH to inform families abroad. Now serving as President of the Maui Taxi Operators, Jingo led successful negotiations with state and county agencies to update long-overdue tariff rates and improve working conditions for predominantly Filipino drivers. His efforts continue to uplift the Filipino community while supporting Maui’s tourism and recovery efforts.

Read the awardees' full bio here.

The 2025 Scholarship awardees were selected through a rigorous vetting process by independent judges. This year includes 15 students:

Braeden Asuncion

Braeden graduated from Maui High School and will be attending University of California, Davis to pursue a degree in Computer Science.

Sarah Cariaga

Sarah graduated from Lahainaluna High School and will be attending University of Nevada to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management.

Michelle Castillo

Michelle graduated from Maui High School and will be attending Chaminade University in Honolulu to pursue a degree in Event Sport and Management.

Kamuela Dahilig

Kamuela graduated from H.P. Baldwin High School and will be attending Santa Clara University in California to pursue a degree in Biology.

Taylor Deocares

Taylor graduated from H.P. Baldwin High School and will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering.

Willyn Domingo

Willyn graduated from Maui High School and will be attending Pacific University Oregon to pursue a degree in Software Engineering.

Kalia Kaneta

Kalia graduated from Maui High School and will be attending Massachusetts Institute of Technology to pursue a degree in Political Science.

Victoria Osborn

Victoria graduated from Seabury Hall and will be attending Metropolitan State University of Denver to pursue a degree in Kinesiology.

Lilinoe Quitazol

Lilinoe graduated from King Kekaulike High School and will be attending Oregon State University to pursue a degree in Computer Science.

Micah Sijalbo

Micah graduated from Maui High School and will be attending Oregon State University to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering.

Jonah Tapaoan

Jonah graduated from Maui High School and will be attending University of California, Merced to pursue a degree in Bioengineering.

Sophia Topinio

Sophia graduated from Lahainaluna High School and will be attending Grand Canyon University to pursue a degree in Entrepreneurship and Finance.

Ikaika Wright

Jonah graduated from King Kekaulike High School and will be attending University of Nevada, Las Vegas to pursue a degree in Computer Engineering.

Charllene Guansing

Charllene is a current student at UH Maui College and is pursuing a degree in Liberal Arts.

Jhenie Yuro

Jhenie is a current student at UH Maui College and is pursuing a degree in Liberal Arts, Pre-Nursing.

The Gintong Pamana Leadership & Scholarship Awards banquet will take place on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at the Maui Beach Hotel Ballroom, starting at 5:30 p.m. It will be an evening of celebration and recognition, honoring these outstanding leaders for their significant contributions to our community.

The Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce invites individuals and organizations to participate in this meaningful event through admission tickets, sponsorship packages, and advertising opportunities available for purchase by clicking here.

For more information about the event email mauifilipinocc@gmail.com.

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Maui Filipino Chamber announces 2024 Gintong Pamana Leadership and Scholarship Awardees

Fri, 31 May 2024 18:34:11 GMT

Kahului, Hawaii – The Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the recipients of the prestigious 2024 Gintong Pamana Leadership and Scholarship Awards. These awards recognize outstanding members of the Maui Filipino community who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, professional excellence, and a steadfast commitment to serving the community, as well as students who are receiving $1000 scholarships.

Under this year’s theme, "Maparaan at Katatagan" (Resourceful & Resilient), the awards celebrate the resilience and resourcefulness of community leaders who have overcome challenges and continue to inspire hope.

2024 Gintong Pamana Leadership Awardees:

Eileen Caldwell, Area Director of Human Resources, Marriott Hawaii & French Polynesia

Caldwell's distinguished career in human resources spans over 25 years, primarily within the hotel industry. She began her journey at Sheraton Maui and now serves as the Area Director of Human Resources for Marriott Hawaii and French Polynesia. Eileen has spearheaded numerous initiatives to enhance the well-being of hotel workers and their families, mentored diverse groups, and advocated for inclusivity. Her leadership was instrumental in Marriott’s response to the Lahaina wildfires in 2023. Eileen also serves on the board of the Hawaii Workforce Development Council, contributing her extensive knowledge to workforce programs in Hawaii.

Yvette Kitagawa, Royal Lahaina Resort

With 27 years of experience at the Royal Lahaina Resort, Yvette Kitagawa has demonstrated exceptional leadership, especially during the Maui wildfires of 2023. Her efforts ensured the safety and well-being of her team and guests, providing a refuge for displaced individuals. Yvette's ongoing support for the community, including her volunteer work with the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce Foundation's scholarship program, showcases her unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Her leadership embodies the spirit of compassion and resilience.

Alvin "Kai" Pelayo, Community Affairs Manager, Bayer Crop Science

Pelayo is dedicated to ensuring Maui County's agriculture remains healthy and sustainable. His leadership during the August 2023 wildfires highlighted his commitment to community service, as he provided critical support and resources during the crisis. Kai's involvement with the Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce and the Binhi At Ani Filipino Community Center underscores his dedication to uplifting the Filipino community. His efforts in promoting positive farming practices and environmental stewardship leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Christopher Yanuaria, Personal Support Counselor, University of Hawai'i Maui College (UHMC)

Yanuaria provides essential mental health counseling services to students at UHMC. His role extends beyond individual counseling sessions, participating in crisis intervention and educational programs. During the Maui wildfires of 2023, Christopher played a crucial role in providing immediate and long-term mental health support. His leadership and dedication to men's holistic well-being and efforts to combat human trafficking reflect his commitment to serving others. Christopher holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa.

The 2024 Scholarship awardees include 21 students:

Bernadette Acaso

Bernadette graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Danilo and Nila Acaso. She will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in Environmental Engineering.

Haylie Aggasid

Haylie graduated from HP Baldwin High School and is the daughter of Donnabeth Pascua. She will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in Dental Hygiene.

Carla Agrade

Carla graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the daughter of Carlito Agrade. She will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Keith Baniqued

Keith graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the daughter of Monet Baniqued. He will be attending the University of Nevada, Las Vegas to pursue a degree in Comprehensive Medical Imaging.

Jhanessty Bautista

Jhanessty graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Vanessa Bautista. She will be attending Gonzaga University to pursue a degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences.

Cheira Cappal

Cheira graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the daughter of Emerson and Cheryl Cappal. She will be attending Portland State University to pursue a degree in Business Management.

Judy Dela Cruz

Judy graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the daughter of Marivic and Judy Dela Cruz. She will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in Digital Cinema.

Rob Gonzales

Rob graduated from St. Anthony High School and is the son of Midea Gonzales. He will be attending the University of Notre Dame to pursue a degree in Pre-Health.

Jasmine Lagazo

Jasmine graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the daughter of Russell and Marifel Lagazo. She will be attending the University of Nevada, Las Vegas to pursue a degree in Nursing.

Roxelle Magliba

Roxelle graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Rolex and Grace Magliba. She will be attending Seattle Central Community College to pursue a degree in Nursing.

Criselle Pacubas

Criselle graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Mary Jane Pacubas. She will be attending the University of Nevada, Las Vegas to pursue a degree in Nursing.

Arjei Paet

Arjei graduated from HP Baldwin High School and is the son of Roger and Mary Jane Velasco Paet. He will be attending the University of Hawaii Maui College to pursue a degree in Dental Hygiene.

Sienna Racoma

Sienna graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Jojo and Lorly Mar Racoma. She will be attending the University of Hawaii Maui College to pursue a degree in General Creative Media.

Edgar Ramones

Edgar graduated from Maui High School and is the son of Edgar and Rodalyn Ramones. He will be attending St. Martin's University to pursue a degree in Engineering.

Noah Santiago

Noah graduated from Maui High School and is the son of Gilbert and Mary Grace Santiago. He will be attending Grand Canyon University to pursue a degree in Applied Business Information Systems.

Ethan Sim

Ethan graduated from Kihei Charter High School and is the son of John and Hayde Sim. He will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in Accounting.

Elizabeth Thomas

Elizabeth graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Jeffrey and Marina Thomas. She will be attending the Chaminade University of Honolulu to pursue a degree in Psychology.

Jaimie Tirona

Jaimie graduated from HP Baldwin High School and is the daughter of Jorge and Marga Tirona. She will be attending Pace University New York to pursue a degree in Fine Arts/Design.

Jhenie Yuro

Jhenie graduated from HP Baldwin High School and is the daughter of Julius and Winnie Yuro. She will be attending the University of Hawaii Maui College to pursue a degree in Pre-Nursing.

Zoe Zane

Zoe graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Jeremy and Darryl Zane. She will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in Psychology.

Tierra Bueno-Moniz

Tierra is a current student at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College pursuing a degree in Nursing.

The Gintong Pamana Leadership & Scholarship Awards banquet will take place on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at the Maui Beach Hotel Ballroom, starting at 5:30 p.m. It will be an evening of celebration and recognition, honoring these outstanding leaders for their significant contributions to our community.

For more information about the event email mauifilipinocc@gmail.com.

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TICKETS TO GINTONG PAMANA

Maui Filipino Chamber announces 2023 leadership and scholarship awardees

Fri, 12 May 2023 03:07:34 GMT

KAHULUI, HI - The Maui Filipino Chamber of Commerce today announced five outstanding Filipino leaders in the community to receive the prestigious Gintong Pamana Leadership Award this year, and 19 students who are receiving scholarships from the Chamber’s foundation.

Since 1995, the Chamber has honored Filipino leaders of our community with outstanding achievements and record in community service in various fields. The awardees will be recognized at the formal evening banquet Gintong Pamana on Wednesday, June 7, 5:30 p.m. at the Maui Beach Hotel. The evening will feature dinner, entertainment and inspirational remarks from the honorees.

Tickets and sponsorship tables are available here.

The Gintong Pamana Leadership Awardees are:

Conchita Agra-Pigao

Known in her community as Ching, this dynamic leader from Christ the King Church does not hesitate to share her talents that are as amazing as her smile. For starters, Ching is the choir master of the Marian Club Choir, which provides angelic melodies every weekend mass and special events. Since 2004, she has led the church’s Salubong - a Catholic tradition that reenacts the events during the resurrection of Jesus Christ for Easter Sunday. She also organizes the church’s Misa de Gallo, or Simbang Gabi - a nine-day traditional novena during the wee hours of the morning leading up to Christmas.

Ching is loved by her parish community because of her competence as a leader, reliability, and selflessness. She responds when help is needed, expects nothing in return, and is a devoted mother, grandmother and wife to her husband Paul Madriaga Pigao. Ching was born and raised in the town of Claveria in Cagayan, Philippines.

Rossel Critchlow

Roselle is the Human Resources Business Partner for Bayer Crop Science. In this leadership capacity, she is responsible for HR business strategies within Maui, and Tucson in Arizona for more than 300 employees. This includes employee relations, engagement, performance management, professional development, investigations, coaching and much more. She helped manage and overcame challenges brought by the pandemic in 2020, and was recognized with the Top Performance Award for her efforts. With more than 17 years of professional excellence in her career, Roselle is a rising star and is definitely one to watch in corporate circles.

Driven by her core values of faith and love, Roselle credits her mentors and loved ones for the success in her career, and shares the joy of learning while cultivating relationships in her job. She earned her masters in Human Resource Management from the University of Hawaii, and has roots in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte and in Imus, Cavite, Philippines.

Lorelle Peros

Lorelle is an educator driven by her passion to support students succeed. As faculty professor and department chair for the Business and the Hospitality Department for UH Maui College, she has been instrumental in innovative programs and initiatives within the UH community and with national and international partners, earning multiple commendations from her peers such as the U.H. Board of Regents Excellence in Teaching Award in 2007 and the Francis Davis Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2006 among others. With experience in the hospitality industry and commitment to helping others, Lorelle has opened many doors of opportunities for our students today, including her efforts to bridge UH Maui College with universities in the Philippines.

As a loving wife and mom of two boys, and a dedicated mentor and friend, Lorelle has earned the utmost admiration from all. While adored for her friendly and humble demeanor, Lorelle’s leadership has created game-changing solutions that has made this Maui community truly no ka oi.

Theresa Sotto

Theresa is the immediate past president of the Santo Nino Club of Maui - an organization she has served and volunteered in for many years. With its more than 240 members, the club is active in community events such as the Barrio Fiesta and Maui County Fair, and has organized disaster-relief efforts, especially for the 2019 earthquake in the Philippines. As a community leader, Theresa is passionate about keeping her Visayan roots alive on Maui, and continues to work with her team in the perpetuation of the annual Sto. Nino celebration known as the Sinulog Festival - usually adorned with bright, colorful costumes, floats, dances and music that tells the story of the Philippines' pagan past and the country's acceptance of Christianity.

By day, Theresa is a Program Specialist II for the Maui Adult Day Care Center, and has worked in various healthcare roles. Her leadership was recognized with a Lapu Lapu award from the Congress of Visayan Organizations in 2014 and she hails from Piao, Roxas, Zamboanga Del Norte, Philippines.

Loida Villanueva

Loida is an endoscopy technician for the Maui Memorial Medical Center, a current position in her 26-year career in healthcare. Last year, she was nominated to be a steward and secretary for United Public Workers Maui Health - a role that has made tremendous impact in her journey so far. When UPW went on strike this year, which lasted 56 days, Loida was on the table as one of the negotiators for the union and her role was to explain to her peers the updates, terms and strategies. This communication role is critical with more than 90 percent of workers being Filipinos, as the strike involved getting out in the elements for a prolonged time, financial hardships, and uncertainties. Loida coordinated snacks and water, helped with unemployment applications, and most important, she helped fight for better wages and benefits that will take care of many families in the community.

Loida was born and raised in the Philippines and always dreamed of becoming a nurse since childhood. She studied nursing and came to Hawaii to make this dream come true, yet she turned out to be much more than a nurse - she used her voice to become a respected leader and an inspiration to all.

The 2023 Scholarship recipients are:

Aliyah Casayuran

Aliyah graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Alfonso and Jesse Casayuran. She will be attending the Pacific University to pursue a degree in Kinesiology.

Angelina Ancheta

Angelina graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Celso and Grace Ancheta. She will be attending Seattle University to pursue a degree in design.

Charlie Salacup

Charlie graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Edgard and Lyn Salacup. She will be attending University of Nevada Las Vegas to pursue a degree in nursing.

Cheyenne Cadiz

Cheyenne graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Oliver and Catherine Cadiz. She will be attending Mount Saint Mary’s University of Los Angeles to pursue a degree in nursing.

Danica Palacio

Danica graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Danny and Myrna Palacio. She will be attending the University of Nevada Las Vegas to pursue a degree in comprehensive medical imaging.

Frances Dangtayan

Frances graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the daughter of Bryian and Julie Ann Dangtayan. She will be attending the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College to pursue a degree in hospitality and tourism.

Jacob Garcia

Jacob graduated from Kamehameha Schools Maui and is the son of Daniel Garcia and Arleen Ricalde-Garcia. He will be attending Brown University to pursue a degree in environmental science.

Jaiden Barbosa

Jaiden graduated from Maui High School and is the son of Frank and Joselin Barbosa. He will be attending Arizona State University to pursue a degree in civil engineering.

Jarred Peros

Jarred graduated from Maui High School and is the son of Greg and Lorelle Peros. He will be attending University of California San Diego to pursue a degree in computer science.

Jazmyne Viloria

Jazmyne graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Rudy and Ruth Viloria. She will be attending Arizona State University to pursue a degree in marketing and advertising.

Jovan Butac

Jovan graduated from Maui High School and is the son of Fernand and Marilyn Butac. He will be attending Grand Canyon University to pursue a degree in engineering.

Kailani Ibanez

Kailani graduated from Henry Perrine Baldwin High School and is the son of Jessie and April Ibanez. He will be attending Seattle University to pursue a degree in liberal arts.

Madison Yu-Cua

Madison graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the daughter of Dennis and Ainee Yu-Cua. She will be attending the University of San Francisco to pursue a degree in english.

Mikaina Orbeta

Mikaina graduated from Maui High School and is the daughter of Leonardo and Miriam Orbeta. She will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in nursing.

Marc Cartagena

Marc graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the son of Mark Anthony and Whriz Cartagena. He will be attending Pacific University to pursue a degree in english.

Patrick Borden

Patrick graduated from Maui High School and is the son of Francis and Lynette Borden. He will be attending the University of Nevada Las Vegas to pursue a degree in business finance.

Troy Concepcion

Troy graduated from Lahainaluna High School and is the son of Teody and Aileen Concepcion. He will be attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a degree in nursing.

Jansen Chase Aceret

Jansen is currently attending the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College pursuing a degree in nursing.

Jacqueline Agorilla

Jacqueline is a current student at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College pursuing a degree in nursing.

For inquiries, contact mauifilipinocc@gmail.com or visit mauifilipinochamber.com.

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Welcome to the new Maui Filipino Chamber Website

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 14:08:11 GMT

We look forward to providing you membership updates and events here soon!