by Jim Bea Sampaga
The November 5 General Election is fast approaching. By the time this Hawaii Filipino Chronicle issue hits the racks, the County Elections Division has already mailed out the ballots to the registered voters.
HFC has always championed educating readers about the candidates in the upcoming election.
For this issue, we are highlighting the Filipino American candidates appearing in the General Election ballot.
Despite differences in political party, these Filipino American candidates have one goal in mind: supporting the local community and ensuring families stay together in Hawaii.
The candidates have different focuses in their campaigns to reach these goals such as addressing housing, homelessness, public and keiki safety, increasing access to social services, supporting local farmers, providing tax cuts and many more.
To better help our readers understand the candidates, HFC asked them two simple questions:
Why are you running for political office? And why should people vote for you?
Editor’s Note: Other Filipino American candidates who were not included in this cover story did not respond as of our press time. Candidate responses were edited for space and clarity.
STATE SENATE
Gabby Macaraeg
RUNNING FOR: District 7 (Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe and Molokini)
Why are you running for political office?
Politicians claim victories during campaigns, yet we are still talking about the same problems every election. We need to empower the people’s voice in the Legislature, but things will not change in the same old way, with the same old politicians.
My motivation in running for a political office largely stems from being frustrated with the issues that our community has, and our government hasn’t handled them properly. The same issues such as Cost of Living, Housing, and Homelessness have been an issue for decades and continue to get worse especially these last four years.
I do believe that I could bring positive change to the community with my experience in the Construction Industry and Federal/Government. I have acquired skills that positively impacted each of my employers with success. I have the motivation and heart to give back to Maui because of its Aloha which I want to preserve.
Why should people vote for you?
I am a veteran and proud to have served my country and still want to serve my community.
Vote for me, because I will help us progress and take care of all our citizens here in our home. I care deeply about not only my children’s but everyone else’s children’s future in my country. I’m here to say real change is coming and help is on the way. I’m ready to work hard to earn your vote.
Your voting decisions should be based on how we live. If you want to keep your freedom and be able to afford a family one day or be able to still live in Hawaii, vote for me. I want us to be able to live our lives in a time where money and overpriced items don’t drive our everyday decisions. I want this for everyone around our state as well.
Brandon Elefante
RUNNING FOR: District 16 (Aiea, Aiea Heights, Halawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City)
Why are you running for political office?
Running for re-election is a privilege I am deeply honored to undertake because I believe in the strength and resilience of our community. I was raised in this community by a hard-working single mother and incredible grandparents.
Through my years of public service—first on the Honolulu City Council and now in the Hawaiʻi State Senate—I’ve been dedicated to listening to our community’s needs and taking action that reflects our shared values. I understand the unique challenges that face Hawaiʻi and our district, and it has been my life’s great honor to serve in public office for over 10 years. This past year, I diligently worked alongside my colleagues in the state legislature to address critical issues, from improving access to affordable housing to supporting critical infrastructure projects and advocating for a cleaner environment. Together, we have achieved significant milestones, but there is still much more we must accomplish.
Why should people vote for you?
Throughout my years of public service, I have learned the importance of listening to your concerns, collaborating across party lines, and working tirelessly to find common-sense solutions to our most pressing challenges. During the 2024 Legislative Session, I introduced 42 measures, covering issues such as: speeding, public safety, housing, fireworks, social services, and Capital Improvement Projects. I am particularly happy that Senate Bill (SB) 2305 RELATING TO MISSING PERSONS has passed the State Legislature. It established a Silver Alert Program to help locate and safeguard missing persons who are sixty-five years of age or older, cognitively impaired, or developmentally disabled. I am also especially pleased that the legislature has approved over $12M in Capital Improvement Project funding for our district. I believe that my experience, dedication, and passion for our community make me the best choice to continue representing your interests in the State Senate.
STATE HOUSE
Margaret Lim
RUNNING FOR: District 27 (Pacific Heights, Nuuanu, Liliha)
Why are you running for political office?
When I hear what is being taught in schools and look around what’s happening in our communities–high property tax, high cost of home insurance, illegal drug use, mental illness, crime, theft, and homelessness, inefficiency in many of our government offices–I can no longer sit back and just complain.
Our current system in the DPP, public schools, law enforcement, and the one-sided legislature are hurting all of us. Currently, we have 68 Democrats and only eight Republicans! If we don’t get more Republicans in office to help create a two-party system with checks and balances, we will continue to suffer hardship as our cost of living continues to rise and our standard of living continues to decline. Therefore, I am running for office to provide my constituents an option to vote for change and progress.
Why should people vote for you?
I am not a career politician. With a thriving real estate career and a small business, I have no other agenda except to serve and make a difference in the lives of the people in Hawaii. My work ethic, integrity, hard work, passion, and a strong background in business operations and management, and real estate will be a great asset and contribution to our community, local legislature, local government, and ultimately our economy.
Furthermore, my commitment to serve the best interest of the people of Hawaii will ensure that I will only support bills and laws that will promote and strengthen our family and community according to our U.S. Constitution, the Constitution of the State of Hawaii, and the Bill of Rights.
Ikaika Hussey
RUNNING FOR: District 29 (Kamehameha Heights, Kalihi Valley, portion of Kalihi)
Why are you running for political office?
The primary responsibility of a legislator is the $19B state budget, which is my passion and background. I want to make the budget work better for our local working people. Kalihi doesn’t receive enough funds from the State, though we shoulder a disproportionate burden of shelters and transitional housing.
We need sidewalks; our schools need AC and computers; KVH needs a new youth rec center; the PTA of Kalihi Waena Elementary School is fundraising for bathroom repairs, which is a state responsibility! This is completely unacceptable and should embarrass state government officials.
Why should people vote for you?
I take governance very seriously. I have a fiduciary responsibility for $60 million across several nonprofit boards: Hanahauoli School; Domestic Violence Action Center; Hawaii Housing Development Corporation; Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action; and formerly a credit union. I am active on the Kalihi Valley Neighborhood Board and am a graduate of ʻIolani for high school and UH Mānoa for my undergraduate and graduate studies. I am a fighter, and I will continue to fight for the interests of our community.
Shirley Ann Templo
RUNNING FOR: District 30 (Kalihi, Kalihi Kai, Keehi Lagoon, Hickam Village)
Why are you running for political office?
I am running for political office because our community deserves leadership that puts people first. As the child of immigrant parents, Emma and Edgardo Templo, and raised in a working-class family in Kalihi, I deeply understand the challenges many in our state face. My parents instilled in me the values of perseverance, hard work, and a commitment to serving others. Growing up in such a diverse community has shaped my worldview and strengthened my dedication to public service.
As a millennial, I am passionate about ensuring that everyone—especially underserved and minority communities—has their voices heard and their needs addressed. We need leaders who not only listen but also respond with empathy and take meaningful action to solve the real issues our people face. I am committed to advocating for policies that uplift all residents and build a more inclusive and equitable future for everyone.
Why should people vote for you?
I am eager to earn your vote to become the next State Representative for House District 30. As the only candidate born and raised in our community, I am 100% homegrown and deeply connected to the issues and challenges you face because I have lived them too. With nearly a decade of experience in City and State government, I have always prioritized people, serving with ethical and moral integrity. My leadership experience and strong ties to key resources will
make me an effective advocate for the needs of our district. Together, we can revitalize our community, ensuring that District 30 receives the attention it deserves. You and your family deserve a representative who will fight for you. I humbly ask for your vote this election season so I can get to work on your behalf and create meaningful, positive change for all of us.
Nancy Valdez
RUNNING FOR: District 31 (Fort Shafter Flats, Salt Lake, Pearl Harbor)
Why are you running for political office?
I’m running for office because I feel that our government has lost the meaning of We the People, Our democracy, the US Constitution, and transparency.
As I say this, I hope that if I am in office, the legislatures can work together no matter the party of choice. After all, it is about the people. We need to make sure that the people’s voices are heard as I am a person of action.
The rising cost of living in Hawai‘i has made essentials like food, gas, and housing unaffordable for many. In office, I will work with fellow legislators to address these challenges and find solutions to ease the financial burden on families. I have also been canvassing door-to-door, hearing directly from residents, and bringing these concerns to neighborhood board meetings for action and answers.
Why should people vote for you?
I humbly ask for the support and votes of the Filipino community. Growing up with the culture that my late parents instilled in me, I understand the values of family, hard work, and helping others. I am committed to listening to your concerns and ensuring your voices are represented. I will continue engaging with the community throughout the year and plan to organize a Filipino cultural event in Salt Lake, fostering unity and celebrating our rich heritage. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected future. Salamat.
Micah Aiu
RUNNING FOR: District 32 (Fort Shafter, Moanalua, Aliamanu, Foster Village, portions of Aiea and Halawa)
Why are you running for political office?
I am running for political office to continue the work that I have done over the past two years, addressing the high cost of living, increasing affordable housing supply, providing services to those with mental illness and experiencing homelessness, investing in infrastructure and schools, and ensuring that the State spends tax dollars wisely. I am proud to have served on the House Finance Committee and helped pass the largest income tax cut in State history.
A family of four with a household income of $90,000 will see a $20,000 tax savings over the next seven years, and all families will see a doubling of the standard deduction when they prepare their 2024 taxes next year. Adjustments in the tax brackets are coming in the later years. Hawaii is going from one of the highest income tax States in the nation to one of the lowest. This is just the first step, and I will continue to deliver meaningful change for our community.
Why should people vote for you?
I have a longstanding personal connection to the district, having grown up and lived in Moanalua nearly my whole life, and have firsthand knowledge of the district’s needs, challenges, and opportunities. I have also been a practicing attorney for the last eight years and am the current in-house counsel for a large construction company in the State. I want to see the place where I call home continue to thrive. I am so thankful to be able to learn and work with my mom, Senator Donna Mercado Kim, but I am part of the next generation of leaders who are stepping up to lead our State into the future. I have and will continue to rely on my legal background to critically question whether past policies and spending are effective and will propose new, thoughtful, creative solutions to solve these modern problems.
Trish La Chica
RUNNING FOR: District 37 (Portions of Mililani Town, Mililani Mauka, Koa Ridge, Waipio Gentry)
Why are you running for political office?
As a Filipino immigrant, I came to Hawaii seeking opportunity and a better life, and my journey has shaped my desire to give back to my community and be their advocate in the legislature. My experiences have instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and service, which have driven my passion for advocating for working families and my community.
I’m running to continue expanding access to education, affordable childcare, and housing, and to address the challenges that affect our daily lives. I am committed to ensuring our youth have a future here in Hawaii, where they can find opportunity and stability without having to leave their home state. My roots remind me of the importance of creating opportunities for everyone and working hard to ensure that all voices in my district are heard, respected, and valued.
Why should people vote for you?
As a proud Filipino immigrant, I understand the challenges our working families face and have fought tirelessly to address them. I’ve delivered tangible results, such as restoring school bus services and passing legislation to protect our keiki from the harms of e-cigarettes. My leadership is shaped by the values of family and community, and I pledge to continue working closely with our community to ensure that their voices are heard and to always do the right thing, irrespective of how difficult it may be.
Rose Martinez
RUNNING FOR: District 40 (Portions of Lower Village and Ewa Beach, Iroquois Point)
Why are you running for political office?
I was first elected in 2020 by the hardworking people of Ewa and we managed to get a lot done, but there’s so much more work to do. I would continue improving our schools and getting them the upgrades and improvements they deserve as well as address ongoing community concerns about the environment and the U.S. military. I will continue supporting our local farmers and producers to improve access to locally grown food and products so that those in our community including our schools can be more food secure.
We are also working on finding ways to combat Hawaii’s cost of living, and I will continue to pass legislation that empowers and supports our working families in Ewa. Last year, we passed one of the largest tax breaks for working families in the State, and I believe that we can even go further with affordable housing, good-paying jobs, and good schools.
Why should people vote for you?
As a lifelong resident of Ewa, a mother, former educator, and current State House Representative, I know and hear the issues facing our community as I speak to residents from all across the district. In my first term as a State House Representative. I demonstrated that I have the relationships and collaboration skills to get the job done. I am deeply rooted in our values here in Ewa and will continue to fight for them at the state capitol. I am always willing to meet and to listen and respect all points of view while finding collaborative solutions to these complex problems. I will continue to work hard and diligently to ensure that Ewa is getting their fair share and that the challenges and needs of our residents are being met.
Diamond Garcia
RUNNING FOR: District 42 (Portions of Varona Village, Ewa, and Kapolei, Fernandez Village)
Why are you running for political office?
I’m running for office because I see the quality of life in West O‘ahu getting worse each year, as our political leaders fail to prioritize local families. We need more than just a representative—we need a fighter. I’m fighting to lower our cost of living, to stand up against the woke agenda, to reduce crime in our community, and to ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with the growing population. It’s time for leadership that will truly put the people of West O‘ahu first.
Why should people vote for you?
People should vote for me because I have a proven track record of standing up against the status quo and making sure the voices of West O‘ahu’s diverse communities are heard—especially our hardworking Filipino families. I’ve introduced and fought for legislation that cuts taxes, reforms our education system, and protects the values we all hold dear: family, faith, and hard work. Whether it’s protecting parental rights, keeping our communities safe, or safeguarding our land and keiki, I’m committed to fighting for you. Together, we can create a future where our families thrive. I humbly ask for your continued support as we work to Make Hawaii Great Again!
CITY COUNCIL
Keani Rawlins-Fernandez
RUNNING FOR: Maui County Council
Why are you running for political office?
I would be honored to continue working hard for you on the Council. I’m running for political office because I love our ‘aina and the people who make this our home. I’m grateful to everyone who contributes to making our home consist of communities that have literally run back into fires for someone they may not have even known to help them, who donated food and shelter, and who works every day in a position to meet everyone’s needs.
This year has been particularly tough. The resilience and compassion exhibited by so many inspire me every day to develop new and creative solutions that make sense for our community.
My goal is community cohesion. We must maximize government transparency, accessibility, and user-friendliness, and center our community’s voice in shaping systems that increase food security, guarantee environmental and cultural protection, establish a strong economy, and ensure residents have housing they can afford.
Why should people vote for you?
I respectfully ask for your continued support to further our shared goals and priorities, which will ultimately better the quality of life for everyone and honor our ancestors, and make the next generations proud.
Like many kupa‘aina of Molokai, I’m of mixed ancestry: Hawaiian, Filipino, and Portuguese, descending from plantation workers seeking a better life in Hawai‘i. I have two children with my husband, who teaches fourth grade at Maunaloa Elementary School. I earned a master’s degree in business administration and a law degree, which was integral when working at the Hawai‘i Legislature as an aide and lead advocate before joining the Council.
I’m a highly qualified, effective champion for our community and for our ‘aina with an incredible, dedicated team to match. Please visit my website at votekeani.com, IG at votekeani, or FB at facebook.com/votekeani for more information.
Abe Apilado Jr.
RUNNING FOR: Kauai County Council
Why are you running for political office?
I’m Abe Apilado, a local fisherman with deep roots in Kauai. Though I have no political background, I’m passionate about serving our island and our people. I understand the everyday challenges we face and believe that by working together, we can make a difference. My leadership skills and ability to listen make me a strong advocate for our community. I’m not afraid to speak up, and I’ll always put Kauai first
Why should people vote for you?
Whether I’m elected to the Kauai County Council or not, my commitment to serving our island remains strong. Remember, it’s not our leaders who make Kauai great—it’s us, the people.
Addison Bulosan
RUNNING FOR: Kauai County Council
Why are you running for political office?
Representation matters and it’s important to our community that our government reflect the vision of our community. My shared perspective and values with my Filipino heritage and local upbringing bring forth the viewpoints and solutions that will continue to serve our community.
It’s important that we continuously seek improvement within our government as its primary effort is to represent the community as a whole. And government Is only as good as we engage with it.
Why should people vote for you?
Our ability to continue to improve the lives of each other rests on how well we can work together, play together, and live together. If elected, my job is to help us stay together, and a vote for me is a vote for us to continuously pursue this cause. In a world that challenges us to see us separate and divided, it’s important to remain vigilant as a community and work together to improve all of our lives. As they say, many hands make light work.
The following candidates have not responded to our questions for inclusion in this issue: Greggor Ilagan who is running for State House, District 4 (Black Sands Beach Subdivision, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Hawaiian Beaches, Kalapana, Koae, Leilani Estates, Nanawale Estates, Pahoa, Pohoiki, Seaview Estates), Julie Reyes Oda for State House, District 40 (Portions of Lower Village and Ewa Beach, Iroquois Point), David Alcos for State House, District 41 (Portion of Ewa Beach, Ocean Pointe, Barbers Point), and Josiah Ubando for State House, District 49 (Kaneohe, Maunawili).
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