Although American politicians are quick to politicize immigration issues, the Franciscan friars have remained true to its vocation to take care of the needy. They took the initiative to solicit for jackets, strollers, clothes, and food for the immigrants.

I had an inspiring conversation with Fr. Julian Jagudilla, OFM, about this. He is the director of the Migrant Center at Church of St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Jagudilla sympathized with popular sentiment against ‘crossing the borders’ and jumping the immigration process. But as part of the church, how can you close your doors from the neediest and most vulnerable people when they are right at your doorstep? he asked.

Awesome at 10 is a curated collection of stories and essays about the Filipino American communities. It is all about surviving and thriving of FilAm immigrants and new generations. It speaks of our struggles and inspiration and fun. Makes for a good gift, actually. So please get your copy for history’s keeping and as a way to sustain OSM!’s awesome life as a local news and multimedia platform. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Merly’s World digital show - it is about self-healing and Earth regeneration doables. “It is not rocket science. It is lifestyle change,” says host Merly Barrete Barlaan.

FilAm Steven Raga announced his candidacy for Assembly Dist. 30 in Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth, the country’s most diverse neighborhood. Local community leaders endorse his bid. “It is about time we elect a Pinoy to an elective post,” said NYS Sen. John Liu.

New York City Immigration lawyer Licelle Cobrador, Esq. pens about the long wait for sibling petitions. Is it worth it?

“Installing Marcos into power is a shame globally. Why vote for someone who stole billions of money from the Filipino people? We start with good leaders to improve lives.” Tess Abutanmo dela Cruz, RN, Leader

Branding on positive journalism, Awesome at 10 is a community mirror on the mainstreaming of the Philippine pancit, lechon, lumpia and Filipiniana – and delves deep on human trafficking, racism, domestic violence, and the sweet victory of hard work.

There will be a second edition to this hardbound, 224-page book soon.