Background

• Parentage: My father, Joaquin Cordero Manipol, hails from the picturesque island of Romblon. He later settled in Bacolod City, Philippines. My beloved mother, Flora Colita YBANEZ, originally from Catmon, Cebu, eventually made her home in Davao City.
• Relocation: In 2007, I embarked on a new chapter by moving to the enchanting island of Hawaii. Here, I joined my husband, John Larson, a successful businessman.

Family Life

We are blessed with two wonderful children:

• Gianna: Our daughter, currently in 7th grade, is a bright young soul with a passion for robotics and piano.
• David: Our son, aged five (in 4K), finds joy in playing t-ball and exploring the virtual world of Roblox.

Educational Journey

• I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Holy Cross of Davao College in 2002.
• Subsequently, I pursued legal studies at the University of Mindanao for two and a half years before making the transition to Hilo, Hawaii.

Professional Milestones

• Volunteer Work: In 2008, I dedicated my time to volunteering at the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii and the County Immigration Office. Simultaneously, I pursued a Paralegal course online through the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s affiliates.
• Certifications: By 2009, I had become a certified Paralegal and court interpreter. My commitment often required a lengthy commute from my residence in Hilo to Kona, a journey of one and a half hours each way.
• Entrepreneurship: In 2010, I became an authorized business partner with LBC Balikbayan freight services. Our mission was to facilitate the shipping of care packages from the Filipino community here on the Big Island to their loved ones across various parts of the Philippines. Additionally, our business played a vital role in providing relief goods and supplies during natural calamities. Notable instances include Typhoon Haiyan in Leyte and Typhoon Pablo in Surigao City.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story. I remain committed to contributing positively to our community and beyond.

Warm regards,

Grace Manipol-Larson

Primary Election Day:

August 10, 2024

General Election Day:

November 5, 2024

Hawaii

• Marketing Manager at Big Island Courier Service (2008 – present)
• Vendor at the Islander Group (2019)
• Deli and Bakery Department at Safeway (2018)
• Paralegal at Crudele and De Lima Law Firm (2012)

Philippines

• Sales Agent at Femeldas Trading (2005-2007)
• Area Development Manager at Wuerth (2002)
• Secretary at PhilamLife Insurance (2000)

Volunteer Work

• County Immigration Services (2010)
• Legal Aid Society of Hawaii (2009)

Affiliations/ Community Involvement

1. Member at Hilo Toastmaster’s Club (2009)
2. President at Hilo Visayan Club (2016-2020)
3. Secretary at Congress of Visayan Organizations (2018)
4. Sales Partner at LBC (2009- Present)
5. Former Elected Youth Leader (Philippines)
6. Sangguniang Kabataan (1996-2002)

Honors/ Awards Received

1. Leadership Award at HVC (2020)
2. Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Contributor (2019)
3. University of Hawaii (2018)
4. Special Awardee – Triumphus Legis – University of Mindanao, Philippines (2006)
5. Leadership Award – HCDC Masscomm Department (2002)

As a mother of two children, I recognize the vulnerability of our community’s youngest members. It is our duty to shield them from harm. Here’s how I propose to achieve this:

• Combatting Exploitation: We must stand firm against sex traffickers who prey on the innocent. Strengthening law enforcement efforts and community awareness programs will be a priority.
• Ensuring Ethical Healthcare: Corrupt medical practitioners undermine trust in our healthcare system. I will advocate for rigorous oversight and accountability to safeguard the well-being of new moms and their children.

Our environment and community well-being are intertwined. Here’s how we can foster sustainable living:

• Backyard Gardening and Poultry: Where zoning permits, let’s encourage backyard gardening and small-scale poultry farming. Not only does this promote self-sufficiency, but it also contributes to a greener neighborhood.
• Community Gardens: Establishing community gardens benefits both the environment and residents. Fresh produce, reduced food miles, and a stronger sense of community await us.
• Fruit Trees for Nutrition: Let’s plant fruit trees strategically, ensuring that every family has access to nutritious, locally grown food.

Language barriers should never hinder access to justice. Here’s my proposal:

Regular Court Interpreters: I advocate for employing court interpreters as regular employees with full benefits. Their role is pivotal:

• Equal Access: Limited English speakers deserve equal footing in understanding our justice system. Interpreters bridge this gap.
• Fair Trials: In trial situations, interpreters carry the weight of ensuring fairness. They interpret every word spoken by judges, juries, lawyers, and witnesses.
• Community Service: By serving the court and our diverse community, interpreters uphold justice.

Education is the bedrock of progress. Let’s pave the way for aspiring legal professionals:

• Advocacy for a Law School: I will tirelessly advocate for the establishment of a law school right here in Hilo. This will empower our community with legal knowledge, fostering informed citizens and future leaders.

Some laws no longer serve our evolving society. I am committed to reviewing and repealing obsolete regulations, ensuring that our legal framework aligns with our community’s needs.

Together, let’s build a stronger, more resilient District 2. Your support matters, and I invite you to join me in this transformative journey.

My diverse educational journey reflects my commitment to personal growth and community service.

1. Paralegal Studies (Associate Certified) at UH Hilo (2008):
   In 2008, I completed an Associate Certified Paralegal Studies program at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. This comprehensive course equipped me with essential legal knowledge and practical skills.
2. Bachelor of Laws (University of Mindanao, Philippines, 2002-2005):
   From 2002 to 2005, I dedicated myself to legal studies at the University of Mindanao in the Philippines. This rigorous program deepened my understanding of legal principles and prepared me for a career in law.
3. Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication (Holy Cross of Davao College, Philippines, 1997-2002):
   Between 1997 and 2002, I pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication at Holy Cross of Davao College. This interdisciplinary program honed my communication skills, media literacy, and understanding of societal dynamics.

Stickers

“Stick with us! Buy stickers for our campaign and make our message stick.”

Per piece $5

T-shirt

“Make a statement with our custom-designed campaign t-shirts! Order for our cause or help sell them online with print-on-demand.”

S, M & L – $20
XXL & XXXL – $25

Choose from the following available prints:

info@gracemanipol.com
(808) 640 1540
831 Leilani St.
96720 HI, HILO