Bremerton's Filipinos Build a Mutual-Aid Society — and a Young Ally Wins Their Hearts

The following was her speech given at the dinner:

"Ladies and Gentlemen:

"I am exceedingly proud that you were inspired by circumstances and environment to form an association with such ambitions and admirable platform as you have before you.

"We understand definitely that the benefit of this association is not for one individual but for the common good of all Filipinos, not only in this community and district, but for the whole United States. Why, you may ask, for the whole United States? Because to leave the marks of determination and effort in one section of the country is bound to bring out the sterling qualities of your great race before the watchful eyes of the American people.

"The most vital thing by which you must be guided and by which you must adhere to constantly and faithfully is unity. With unity as your policy, you cannot but succeed in your efforts. You cannot question the results of our endeavors, for they shall not be other than a success. Is it not known the world over, universally, that 'United we stand, divided we fall'? There is no doubt as to its truth, for it has been proven scores and scores of times down through the ages. Have not great individuals, great monarchs, and great empires been vanquished because of the mere lack of unity? Such is the position of the task which now confronts you, my friends. You must be united unanimously to the same principles, by the same determination and identical aims, before you can contemplate your success. Success will manifest itself if only you will resolve to keep before you the fact that in unity there is strength.

"In concluding, I wish to say that I have the most sincere faith and hope that you will all do your best for the common cause. One successful association after another, building up one upon the other, will finally bring you to your much-desired goal and most devoted — independence of your beloved country, the Philippines.

"I thank you."

I take pleasure in introducing to the Filipino community Miss Martha Yamashita, better known as 'Tasu.' You that have not met her, but who have heard what she is to the Filipino people of Bremerton, will be surprised to learn that this charming young lady is active in all affairs of Filipinos in the Bremerton Filipino community. Words cannot express how deeply we appreciate her efforts and interest shown us in the past years. As chairman of the finance committee of the Rizal Day celebration in 1928, she has shown her ability as a leader and a hundred per cent Filipino in spirit. Through her efforts and ability the Filipinos of Bremerton had a successful Rizal Day celebration. She is regarded highly by us and has endeared herself to us, that we learn to call her the true friend of the Filipinos. Yes, folks, she is single and just eighteen summers, but — she is engaged to her career, people, and country. May her wishes come true and more power to her.

Mr. Graciano Peruz, the technical adviser of the Burgos Lodge No. 10, was another of our honored guests. He brought our minds back to our Motherland.