What a difficult and emotionally draining past few days it has been — not only for our homeland, but for the world at large. In moments like these, it's tempting to just tune out, step away from the noise, and simply wait for calmer days ahead. Yet as an information outlet committed to keeping our community informed, we also have the responsibility to stay engaged and aware, even when the headlines are frustrating, unsettling, and exhausting.

Thankfully, amid the uncertainty, there are still bright spots that remind us of the strength and resilience of the Filipino spirit — especially among our kababayans who continue to make their mark in their adopted countries and chosen professions through talent, hard work, and dedication.

This week’s issue celebrates Filipinos who continue to inspire and make us proud:

• “Hard Hats: Filipino Civil Engineers in the Middle East” by Michael G. Lucero shines a spotlight on the Filipino professionals whose expertise and perseverance helped shape many of today’s modern Middle Eastern cities;

• Part 4 of publisher Mona Lisa Yuchengco’s continuing series on Overseas Filipino Achievers honors Filipino men, women — and even a child — who have built successful lives overseas while remaining deeply connected to their Filipino roots;

• In Southern California, Anthony Maddela profiles “Santa Monica’s Uncrowned King of Real Estate,” Gary Limjap, whose story reflects both entrepreneurial grit and success in one of America’s most competitive real estate markets;

• Meanwhile in Manila, contributing writer Alma Cruz Miclat introduces us to “Sari Dalena: A Film Guerrera,” an acclaimed filmmaker whose artistic heritage, award-winning body of work, and fearless storytelling continue to elevate Philippine cinema on the global stage.

[Read It Again]

Justin Jones – Black, Filipino, Civil Rights Activist by Leny Mendoza Strobel

Sampling La Vida Local Along the Amazon by Chibu Lagman

La Vida Local on the Amazon, the Sequel by Chibu Lagman

[Video of the Week] Meeting Filipinos in the Arctic

Former Philippine ’drug war’ police chief runs away from government agents to avoid international arrest warrant
https://www.cnn.com/2026/05/13/asia/philippines-dela-rosa-icc-arrest-warrant-intl-hnk

Fil-Am investigative journalist Pablo Torre wins Pulitzer Prize
https://peopleasia.ph/fil-am-investigative-podcaster-pablo-torre-wins-pulitzer-prize/?

For Moros, The Price of Peace is Life
https://www.rappler.com/features/newsbreak/in-depth/moros-price-peace-life/index.html

Hand-carried air fryer and other stories from a Dubai repatriation ballroom
https://www.rappler.com/people/air-fryer-stories-dubai-repatriation/?

Disney cruise workers busted in child porn sting, hauled off ships for deportation
https://www.ktvu.com/news/disney-cruise-workers-busted-child-porn-sting-hauled-off-ships-deportation?

Sharing Culture
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1161894039391470