The US Stimulus Bill

The gargantuan $787 billion US stimulus bill passed by the US Congress and scheduled to be signed by President Obama next week promises to be a boon to all, -- even to thousands of Filipino veterans who fought side by side with the American forces to prevent Japan from invading Asia and the Pacific during World War II. It is a credit to Democrats in the House, especially Rep. Daniel Inouye, for inserting this small provision in the bill that recognizes the valuable participation of aging Filipino veterans in the defense of liberty by giving them financial compensation so that in the twilight of their years, they will feel appreciated by the country that they served with in the last world war. These Filipino veterans can therefore live in comfort for they deserve the generosity and gratitude that United States has granted to them. The Filipino Veterans Equity bill that has been languishing in the US Congress becomes moot and academic. Those Republican legislators who continue to block this bill from becoming a law are probably now wondering how these Filipino veterans became one of the recipients of the US Stimulus Bill. Thanks to the Democrats in Congress and to President Obama for their high regards to the bravery and loyalty of Filipino veterans.