On October 18, over 80 students, health professionals, and community members gathered at Palama Settlement for the 3rd annual Araw ng Saliksik, a special event focused on health research in the Filipino community. Organized by Pinerds, a group of Filipino health researchers from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UH Mānoa) and the Hawaiʻi Public Health Institute, the event aimed to share valuable research and insights.
“Araw ng Saliksik” means “Day of Research” in Tagalog. The event emphasizes the importance of conducting research with the community and sharing findings in ways that everyone can understand.
This year, the event celebrated Filipino American History Month with the theme, “From Quotas to Communities: Filipino American Migration and Movement.” It honored the journeys of the first Filipino plantation workers who arrived in Hawaiʻi in 1906. The event featured photos of ancestors, inviting attendees to reflect on their family stories and ancestral roots.
May Rose Dela Cruz, founder of Pinerds, spoke about the significance of research in the Filipino community. She highlighted that sharing research helps empower community members. “It’s crucial for them to see the impact of their contributions,” she noted.
Students from Waipahu and Farrington high schools presented important projects on Filipino health issues, while college-level students discussed topics like mental health and chronic diseases. Organizations, such as the Hawaiʻi Workers Center and the UH Cancer Center, also participated by sharing resources and information relevant to the community.
Recent studies show that Filipino Americans often face unique health challenges, including higher rates of certain chronic diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cultural factors significantly influence health outcomes in this community. Therefore, events like Araw ng Saliksik are vital for sharing research that can lead to better health strategies.
The event not only fosters a sense of identity but also serves as a platform for future generations to continue advancing health research and improving their communities. By connecting the past with present health issues, attendees left feeling motivated and informed about how they can make a difference.
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