FIL-AMERICANS urged to make their presence felt in US affairs

Following a meeting with United States Rep. Bob Filner of California, Sen. Richard Gordon called on the Filipino-Americans community in the United States to exhibits political strength and make the community’s presence felt by their respective US legislator on their issue regarding struggle of Filipino World War II veterans who fought side by side with Americans troops in World War II.

In his meeting with Congressman Filner, Senator Gordon expressed his appreciation for Filner’s efforts and commitment in his capacity as sponsor and chairman of US House Committee on Veterans Affairs to pass HR 760, the Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007.

Senator Gordon said Congressman Filner is true Americans patriot who has shown through the years his deep appreciation of the significance of effectively addressing this issue and give to Filipino World War II.

Senator Gordon stressed that it is time for America to act decisively on this issue as this is not merely an issue of cost and money, but more an issue of honor and values among long –standing allies and friend. As a beacon for justice and equality, America must take this opportunity to live up to the standards and values it has set for itself, he said. “The Filipino-American communities, especially those who vote on US elections, are crucial in this struggle. Their advocacy in this cause would be of high value and necessary in efforts to get Representative Filner’s equity bill passed,” Gordon said.

In addition, the Senator said that it is the time for Filipino-American Community to become a more visible component of the US political landscape.

“The next 30 days are critical and I call on the Filipino-American community to unite behind this issue as this struggle for justice and equity by Filipino World War II veterans is a matter of honor,” Gordon said.”call,write, or even visit your respective Congressman and Senators. It is high time for Filipino-American community to make its number and influenced and legislators.”

“The issue concerning Filipino World War II veterans is an issue of honor and principle and there is no better issue around which the Filipino-American community can rally around and express their collective strength in the political arena,” Gordon said.


Manila Bulletin