by Will Espero
The passing of the beloved Pacita Cabulera Saludes from Badoc, Ilocos Sur marks the end of a long, accomplished journey for the 94-year-old iconic leader of Hawaii’s Filipino community.
Her lasting legacy continues through her nine children, 22 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and several great-great-grandchildren.
Nana Pacita arrived in Hawaii in 1970 with eight of her children to join her husband, Fred Saludes, who was born on Kauai. Nana was also a foster parent in Hawaii to two girls.
Her first job in Hawaii was as a co-announcer with KAIM radio. As a popular radio personality, she also went on to work at KORL radio and KISA radio where she was a fan favorite for 47 years.
Nana was able to secure a position with the University of Hawaii (UH) where she taught nutrition education and parenting, and during her time with UH, she was able to take courses so she could teach in local schools. She went on to work at KCAA pre-school and St. Lukes School.
She also worked as a social worker at Susannah Wesley Community Center in Kalihi, where she was a caseworker for many newly arrived Filipino immigrants and was seen as a caring and thoughtful individual who always helped these new arrivals with their problems, concerns, and needs.
Nana Pacita had a passion for writing and was a successful writer and the author of over twenty books that detailed Filipino history, events, and people. Always so involved, she also contributed and wrote for BANNAWAG, Mahogany, and the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle.
As a community leader, Nana Pacita founded Gumil Hawaii and Anak ti Kailokuan Iti America, perpetuating Filipino culture throughout Hawaii.
She also had her own show, Ilokaniana Variety Show, on Olelo community television where she interviewed local residents and discussed important matters for her viewers.
Nana Pacita will be dearly missed in Hawaii and the Philippines. She touched the lives of many and was a respected pioneer and trailblazer.
When I first watched her on her Olelo television show, she was the only Filipina on the air. Once we met and I got to know her better, I could see why she was so respected and admired. She was a strong but gentle woman with a compassionate, friendly personality.
I know she is resting in peace and love now reunited with her husband, Tata Fred.
On another note, the second annual Halo Halo Art Exhibition has opened at the Minasa Art Gallery in Waipahu. The Minasa Art Gallery is Waipahu’s only privately owned gallery partnering with Minasa Restaurant at 94-866 Moloalo Street.
Bryzanne Lagmay (Minasa Art Gallery)and Ann Ginoza (Minasa Restaurant) are the visionaries responsible for promoting local Filipino artists and others through this exhibition and art show.
The artwork will be available to the public for viewing from October 26, 2024 to early 2025. I am happy and honored to say I have a painting on display in the showcase.
As the holiday season has arrived, don’t forget to buy Made in Hawaii products and services. Purchasing local products helps small businesses, hard-working entrepreneurs, and local families. Since many businesses earn the majority of their revenues during the Christmas season, your assistance and patronage can make a difference for our economy and the well-being of Hawaii residents.
WILL ESPERO retired from the Hawaii legislature after serving 19 years in the state House of Representatives and state Senate. He is currently a novelist, poet, and supporter of the arts. Lingering Thoughts provides a glimpse of his perspective on current events and issues.
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