Press Release
Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV)
Contact Person; Arturo P. Garcia
Phone: (213)278-3025
June 16, 2013

Sen. Brian Schatz Pushed for S690-The Filipino Veterans Fairness Act of 2013 at the Senate Hearing

Los Angeles—”It has been more than 50 years, and yet, many Filipino veterans have not been properly recognized for their service and have been denied their basic veterans’ rights. We must fix this wrong. It is critical that we pass this legislation to ensure that the Filipino soldiers who fought for our country — and their families — receive full benefits.”

With these words, Senator Brian Schatz ( D-HI) presented the Senate version or the companion bill Filipino Veterans Fairness Act of 2013 at the Senate Veterans Committee hearing last June 12, 2013 in the US Senate.

Senator Schatz was the first to speak for the bill, one of the 30 bills that will be considered by the Senate Veterans Committee to be urgent. . It was more than more than five years since an equity bill for marginalized Filipino American Veterans has had a hearing at the Senate Committee level.

Appropriate Timing and Meaning

The Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) commends Senator Schatz for his “valorous action and appropriate timing and meaning to pitch for S690 on June 12, 2013. This was at the same occasion that the Filipinos both in the Philippines and the United States celebrates the 115th Independence Day from Spain. “

It was on June 12, 1898 that the Philippine revolutionary government declared its independence from Spain who colonized the Philippines for more than 333 years. Almost three years after the Filipinos rose up in a revolution against Spain on August 23, 1896.

“The Filipino Veterans Fairness Act would provide Filipino soldiers with the same benefits afforded to other veterans who defended the United States during World War II. Unfortunately, many Filipino veterans are in their 90s and passing away rapidly. said Senator Schatz.

Sen. Schatz also thanked the Justice for Filipino American Veetrans (JFAV) and other groups at the Senate hearing that have supported and pushed for legislation to grant the Filipino World War II Veterans and their survivors full recognition, justice and benefits.

For more information please contact jfav at (213)241-0906 or email at [email protected] or visit our facebook account at jfav-los angeles.

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