Philip Joseph Ganaban

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Philip Joseph Ganaban
Image of Philip Joseph Ganaban
Elections and appointments
Last election

August 10, 2024

Education

High school

Waianae High School

Associate

Thomas Edison State University, 2013

Bachelor's

Wayland Baptist University, 2018

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Navy

Years of service

2002 - 2018

Personal
Birthplace
Honolulu, Hawaii
Religion
Catholic
Profession
Advocate
Contact

Philip Joseph Ganaban (Democratic Party) ran for election to the Hawaii House of Representatives to represent District 45. He lost in the Democratic primary on August 10, 2024.

Ganaban completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Philip Joseph Ganaban was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. He served in the U.S. Navy from 2002 to 2018. He earned an associate degree from Thomas Edison State University in 2013 and a bachelor's degree from Wayland Baptist University in 2018. His career experience includes working as an advocate, preventative medicine technician, cyber security analyst, network designer, and IT administrator.[1]

Ganaban has been affiliated with:[1]

  • Waianae Neighborhood Board
  • Boys and Girls Club
  • Suzuki Foundation
  • Team Ganaban
  • Wounded Warriors
  • Simper Fund
  • Americas Fund
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars
  • Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association International

Elections

2024

See also: Hawaii House of Representatives elections, 2024

General election

General election for Hawaii House of Representatives District 45

Chris Muraoka defeated Desiré De Soto in the general election for Hawaii House of Representatives District 45 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Chris Muraoka
Chris Muraoka (R)
 
51.7
 
3,123
Desiré De Soto (D)
 
48.3
 
2,914

Total votes: 6,037
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Hawaii House of Representatives District 45

Desiré De Soto defeated Cross Makani Crabbe, Philip Joseph Ganaban, and Ranson Kuiokalani Soares in the Democratic primary for Hawaii House of Representatives District 45 on August 10, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Desiré De Soto
 
54.6
 
976
Image of Cross Makani Crabbe
Cross Makani Crabbe
 
28.2
 
504
Image of Philip Joseph Ganaban
Philip Joseph Ganaban Candidate Connection
 
12.8
 
229
Ranson Kuiokalani Soares
 
4.5
 
80

Total votes: 1,789
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Hawaii House of Representatives District 45

Chris Muraoka defeated Tiana Wilbur in the Republican primary for Hawaii House of Representatives District 45 on August 10, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Chris Muraoka
Chris Muraoka
 
61.1
 
631
Tiana Wilbur
 
38.9
 
401

Total votes: 1,032
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Ganaban in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Philip Joseph Ganaban completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Ganaban's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

I am a dedicated community leader and advocate, running for House Representative in District 45, Hawaii. With over 20 years of experience working with youth and adolescents, including positions at Kahi Mohala and Youth Challenge Academy Oahu, I have a deep commitment to supporting young people in gaining essential life skills. I hold an Associates in Applied Science in Environmental Health and Emergency Management, a BS in Cyber Security and Business Administration, and am currently pursuing a Master's in Human Resources and Organizational Management. A Navy veteran and preventive medicine specialist, I have a strong background in public health and emergency management. I am also actively involved in my community, serving on the Waianae Neighborhood Board and the Boys and Girls Club of Waianae. My campaign focuses on transparency, accountability, and ethical governance, with a grassroots approach to addressing the needs of my district.
  • Transparency and Accountability: I am committed to ensuring transparent and accountable governance, with a focus on ethical decision-making and clear communication with constituents.
  • Community Support and Development: With extensive experience in public health, youth programs, and community boards, I prioritize supporting local families, enhancing educational opportunities, and addressing public health needs.
  • Grassroots Engagement: My campaign emphasizes a grassroots approach, actively engaging with community members to address their concerns and working collaboratively to find solutions that benefit everyone in District 45.
I am personally passionate about several key areas of public policy:

Public Health and Safety: With my background in preventive medicine and public health, I am dedicated to improving healthcare access, mental health services, and emergency preparedness in our community.

Education and Youth Development: I strongly advocate for quality education and support programs that provide young people with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in life. Ensuring that schools are well-resourced and that students have access to comprehensive educational materials is a priority.

Housing and Community Development: I am committed to addressing the housing crisis by advocating for affordable housing solutions and ensuring that military housing
I look up to my father, whose example I strive to follow. He worked tirelessly as a laborer and a mason in the construction field, leading multiple teams and consistently completing projects ahead of schedule with almost no redoes. My father always put his team first, ensuring they were rewarded for their hard work. Despite the physical toll and the challenges of aging, he remained dedicated to his work every day. His commitment to excellence, leadership, and unwavering work ethic continue to inspire me in my own endeavors.
A Corpsman's Legacy" by Stephanie Hanson Caisse

"A Corpsman's Legacy" profoundly resonates with my life in politics, drawing a direct line from my experiences as a combat Navy Corpsman to my current role as a public servant. Just as the book depicts the unwavering dedication, resilience, and commitment of a Corpsman in the face of extreme adversity, these same qualities have shaped my approach to governance. The memoir’s portrayal of service underpins my belief in putting the needs of the community first, mirroring the Corpsman's role of providing care and support in the most challenging circumstances.

The themes of sacrifice and service in "A Corpsman's Legacy" are central to my political philosophy. The book illustrates how the Corpsman's experiences forge a deep sense of duty and a commitment to integrity—values that I bring into my political career. The compassion and empathy required in the field translate into my dedication to addressing the needs and concerns of my constituents. My time as a Corpsman I have taught me the importance of leadership, accountability, and the profound impact of serving others, principles that guide my efforts to create a transparent, ethical, and responsive government. This memoir encapsulates the essence of service that defines my life in politics, reflecting a legacy of commitment and care that I strive to uphold in my public service.
As an elected official, it is crucial to embody integrity, accountability, empathy, dedication, vision, and effective communication.
I believe the qualities I possess that would make me a successful officeholder stem from my extensive and diverse experiences. As a combat corpsman, I led a medical team of over 40 enlisted corpsmen and 7000 Marines, starting at the rank of E-3 and achieving the milestone of E-7 ( Chief) in the Navy. This journey showcases my dedication, perseverance, and capacity for growth, honing my leadership skills and demonstrating my ability to manage and motivate a diverse group of individuals effectively.

Growing up in a low-income household, I faced significant personal challenges. Becoming a teenage father at 16 required me to hold multiple jobs to support my family while pursuing further education and striving for homeownership. Despite these obstacles, I earned an Associates in Applied Science in Environmental Health and Emergency Management, a BS in Cyber Security and Business Administration, and am currently pursuing a Master's in Human Resources and Organizational Management. I have maintained a GPA of over 3.6 in all higher education, graduating with honors in my undergraduate program, and currently holding a 3.6 GPA in my Master's program.

These experiences have instilled in me a strong work ethic, resilience, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by many in our community. I am a forward-thinking leader who addresses immediate issues while considering their long-term implications, planning for the future in 6-month, 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year intervals. This strategic approach ensures that decisions made today will have positive and sustainable impacts over the long term. My ability to balance immediate needs with future goals, combined with my leadership experience and personal journey, makes me well-equipped to serve effectively and responsibly in public office.
A House Representative in District 45's responsibilities include legislative advocacy, constituent services, community representation, budget oversight, policy development and analysis, and ethical leadership.
I would like to leave a legacy that fosters a transparent government and honesty to the people at all levels of public interest and community engagement. My aim is to create a political environment where transparency and accountability are the norms, ensuring that all government actions and decisions are open to public scrutiny and that officials are held accountable for their actions.

This legacy would also emphasize the importance of active community engagement, encouraging citizens to participate in the democratic process and have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. By building a foundation of trust and open communication between the government and the community, we can ensure that public policies truly reflect the needs and desires of the people.

Ultimately, I hope to inspire future generations of leaders to prioritize integrity, transparency, and community involvement, creating a more inclusive, responsive, and trustworthy government for all.
The first significant historical event I remember is the 9/11 attacks. I was 30 years old at the time. The profound impact of that day motivated me to join the military a year later to serve and protect our country. This pivotal moment in history not only shaped my personal journey but also reinforced my commitment to public service and national security.
My very first job was picking pineapples, and I held it for just 7 days. This experience, though brief, gave me an early insight into the value of hard work and perseverance. It also provided me with a deep appreciation for the labor and effort that goes into agricultural work, shaping my understanding of the importance of supporting our local industries and workforce.
Growing up on an island, "Treasure Island" resonated deeply with me. Hearing tales of different ships coming to and leaving Hawaii sparked my imagination, much like the adventurous spirit of the book. I recall how throwing money to swimmers allowed me to dream and temporarily escape the harsh reality of growing up with limited necessities, which were often shared among my brothers. This experience fostered a sense of adventure and hope, providing a mental escape from the challenges of our daily lives.
If I could be any fictional character, I would want to be James Bond. He had the coolest equipment and gadgets, and I am especially fond of his submarine car. The thrill of adventure, combined with his resourcefulness and suave demeanor, makes James Bond an exciting and inspiring character to embody.
The last song that got stuck in my head was "Greatest Love of All." This song holds a special place in my heart as it was my sixth-grade graduation song, and it was eventually redone by Whitney Houston. The powerful message of self-love and resilience continues to resonate with me and often brings back fond memories of that milestone in my life.
One significant struggle in my life has been trying to give more than I can to the community I adore. Balancing the desire to serve and support my community with the practical limitations of time, resources, and personal capacity has often been challenging.

My commitment to public service and community engagement sometimes leads me to take on more than I can manage, driven by a deep passion to make a positive impact and address the various needs of my constituents. While this dedication is a source of strength, it also means I must continuously strive to find a balance that allows me to be effective and sustainable in my efforts. This struggle has taught me the importance of setting realistic goals, seeking support from others, and prioritizing self-care to maintain the energy and resilience needed to serve my community effectively.
The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be one of collaboration, mutual respect, and constructive dialogue. Here are the key elements of an ideal relationship:

1. Collaboration and Cooperation: Regular communication and collaboration on policies, budgetary matters, and responses to crises.

2. Mutual Respect and Understanding: Respect for each other's roles and expertise, fostering a productive working relationship.

3. Constructive Dialogue and Problem-Solving: Open communication, seeking common ground, and working towards solutions for the state's benefit.

4. Transparency and Accountability: Prioritizing transparency and accountability in their actions to build public trust.

5. Shared Goals and Vision: Striving to align on overarching goals and a vision for the state's future to drive cooperative efforts and more effective governance.
Over the next decade, I perceive that Hawaii will face several significant challenges, with mental health care, homelessness, and affordable housing being among the most pressing.

Mental Health Care: Ensuring access to comprehensive mental health services is a critical challenge. The state needs to address the shortage of mental health professionals, improve mental health facilities, and integrate mental health care into primary health services. Enhancing mental health education and reducing stigma are also essential for encouraging individuals to seek help and support.

Homelessness: Homelessness continues to be a major issue in Hawaii. Addressing this challenge requires a multifaceted approach that includes providing immediate shelter and support services, such as addiction treatment, mental health care, and job training. Long-term solutions involve increasing the availability of affordable housing, improving economic opportunities, and creating pathways out of homelessness.

Affordable Housing: The high cost of living and limited housing supply make affordable housing a significant concern. The state needs to invest in developing more affordable housing units, implementing policies that encourage sustainable development, and providing assistance programs for low-income families. This also involves working with local communities to ensure that new developments meet the needs of residents while preserving the environment and cultural heritage.

Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts between government agencies, non-profit organizations, community leaders, and residents. By prioritizing mental health care, tackling homelessness, and increasing affordable housing, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for all Hawaii residents.
Yes, I believe it is beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics. However, it is crucial that their experience is well-rounded and not solely focused on government issues. Legislators should also have a deep understanding of economic impacts, both locally and globally, as these factors significantly influence our lives and will continue to do so in the coming years.

A well-rounded experience enables legislators to make informed decisions that consider a variety of perspectives and the interconnectedness of various sectors. Understanding economic trends, global markets, and international policies allows legislators to anticipate and address the ripple effects on local economies, employment, and public services. This comprehensive approach ensures that policies are not only effective in addressing immediate concerns but also sustainable and adaptable to future challenges.

In essence, while experience in government and politics is valuable, it should be complemented by knowledge in areas such as economics, public health, education, and community development. This holistic perspective equips legislators to craft policies that are robust, forward-thinking, and capable of fostering a resilient and prosperous society.
Yes, it is highly beneficial to build relationships with other legislators. Legislative work is fundamentally a team effort, and fostering strong relationships with colleagues is essential for effective governance.

Building relationships with other legislators enhances collaboration and cooperation, enabling the sharing of ideas, resources, and expertise. This collaborative environment is crucial for developing comprehensive and well-informed policies that serve the best interests of the community. By working together, legislators can address complex issues more efficiently and create solutions that are more balanced and inclusive.

Moreover, strong relationships among legislators promote a culture of mutual respect and understanding. This can help bridge ideological divides and facilitate constructive dialogue, making it easier to reach consensus on important issues. Ultimately, legislators are elected to serve their communities, not themselves, and building relationships with colleagues ensures that they can work collectively towards the common goal of improving the lives of their constituents. Effective collaboration leads to better outcomes for the community, reinforcing the principle that public service is about serving the people and not individual interests.
I would like to model myself after Representative K. Mark Takai, whose dedication to public service and commitment to his constituents left a lasting impact on Hawaii. Representative Takai was known for his strong advocacy on issues such as veterans' affairs, education, and public health, areas that are also central to my own platform.

Representative Takai exemplified the qualities of integrity, perseverance, and empathy. His approach to governance was characterized by a deep commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring that the voices of his constituents were heard and their needs addressed. He was a champion for veterans, drawing from his own military background to advocate for improved services and support for those who served our country.

Additionally, Representative Takai's work on education demonstrated his belief in the importance of providing quality educational opportunities for all students. He recognized that a strong education system is foundational to our community's future success. His efforts to improve public health services reflected his understanding of the critical role that health plays in the well-being of individuals and communities.

In modeling myself after Representative Takai, I aspire to embody the same dedication to public service, commitment to my constituents, and focus on transparency and accountability that he demonstrated throughout his career.
No, I am not currently interested in running for a different political office, such as the U.S. Congress or governor, in the future. My primary goal is to focus on serving my community at the local level. I believe that the most impactful changes often start at the grassroots, where understanding and addressing the specific needs and concerns of my constituents can make a real difference. By dedicating my efforts to my community, I can work more closely with residents, advocate for their needs, and implement effective solutions that improve their daily lives.
Yes, one particularly touching and memorable story that has deeply impacted me is that of James Aki, a resident of our district. James is a hardworking individual who has faced significant challenges but remains resilient and hopeful. His story is a testament to the strength and determination of our community members.

James grew up in a low-income neighborhood and faced numerous obstacles, including limited access to quality education and healthcare. Despite these challenges, he worked tirelessly to support his family, often holding multiple jobs to make ends meet. His dedication to his family and community is truly inspiring.

What struck me most about James's story is his unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. Despite his own struggles, he consistently volunteers his time and resources to help others in need. Whether it's organizing food drives, mentoring at-risk youth, or advocating for better public services, James embodies the spirit of selflessness and community service.

James's story reinforces my commitment to addressing the systemic issues that affect so many in our district. It reminds me of the importance of creating policies that provide opportunities for all residents, regardless of their background. His resilience and dedication motivate me to work harder to ensure that everyone in our community has the support and resources they need to thrive.
hree friends—a Hawaiian, a Japanese, and a Portuguese—find a magic lamp on the beach. When they rub it, a genie pops out and says, "I’ll grant each of you one wish!"

The Hawaiian thinks for a moment and says, "I wish for the largest luau ever, with all my family and friends!" The genie nods, waves his hand, and poof—the Hawaiian is transported to a massive luau with everyone he loves.

The Japanese friend says, "I wish for a huge business empire, so I can create jobs and help my community!" The genie nods again, waves his hand, and poof—the Japanese friend is the head of a thriving international business.

Finally, the Portuguese friend says, "I wish my friends were back here with me!"

And just like that, poof—the Hawaiian and Japanese friends are back on the beach!
Yes, the legislature should oversee and grant the use of emergency powers to ensure that these powers are used correctly and beneficially for all. Legislative oversight is crucial in maintaining a balance of power and preventing the misuse or overreach of executive authority during emergencies. By involving the legislature, we can ensure that decisions made during crises are transparent, accountable, and in the best interest of the public.

This oversight helps to ensure that emergency measures are proportional, necessary, and respectful of individual rights and freedoms. It also provides a system of checks and balances, allowing for a diverse range of perspectives and expertise to inform critical decisions. Involving the legislature in the process ensures that the use of emergency powers is aligned with democratic principles and that any actions taken are subject to review and approval by elected representatives, thereby protecting the interests and well-being of all constituents.
If elected, the first bill I would introduce would focus on bringing back trade training into school settings. This comprehensive program would include courses in computer coding and programming, basic electrical work, plumbing, woodworking, and metalworking.

The goal of this bill is to equip students with practical skills that are directly applicable to the workforce, thereby enhancing their employability and career readiness. By reintroducing and expanding trade training in schools, we can address the skills gap in various industries, provide alternative pathways to success for students who may not pursue traditional college routes, and stimulate economic growth through a well-trained, skilled workforce.

Integrating these programs into the school curriculum ensures that students have the opportunity to explore different trades, discover their interests, and develop valuable competencies from an early age. This initiative will not only benefit individual students but also strengthen our community by fostering a diverse and capable workforce ready to meet the demands of the modern economy.
My campaign has been endorsed by friends and family who believe in my vision and commitment to our community. I have chosen not to seek endorsements from unions or other organizations, focusing instead on a grassroots approach to connect directly with the residents of our district.
Several committees align with my interests and expertise, and I am particularly drawn to those that focus on public health, education, veterans' affairs, and community development. Here are a few specific committees that interest me:

Health and Human Services Committee: With my background in preventive medicine and public health, I am deeply committed to improving healthcare access, mental health services, and emergency preparedness. Serving on this committee would allow me to advocate for policies that enhance the health and well-being of our community.

Education Committee: Education is a cornerstone of community development and individual success. My experience working with youth and adolescents makes me passionate about ensuring our schools are well-resourced and that students have access to comprehensive educational opportunities. This committee would enable me to work towards improving educational outcomes for all students.

Veterans' Affairs Committee: As a Navy veteran, I understand the unique challenges faced by service members and their families. This committee would provide a platform to address issues such as healthcare, employment, and support services for veterans, ensuring they receive the care and recognition they deserve.

Housing and Community Development Committee: Addressing the housing crisis and supporting community development are critical issues. This committee would allow me to advocate for affordable housing solutions, improved infrastructure, and initiatives that strengthen our communities.

These committees reflect my commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all residents, promoting transparency, and ensuring that government policies effectively address the needs of our community.
Financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental for fostering trust and ensuring responsible management of public resources. Transparency allows citizens to see how tax dollars are spent and holds officials accountable. This promotes ethical behavior, deters corruption, and enhances civic engagement. Prioritizing these values creates a more responsive and effective government.
A state ballot initiative process could be beneficial for Hawaii, provided we can effectively address the potential drawbacks that could complicate the process.

Implementing such a process would enhance direct democracy, giving citizens a more active role in shaping legislation and addressing issues that may not be adequately tackled by the legislature. It can foster greater accountability and responsiveness from elected officials and introduce innovative solutions to pressing problems.

However, to ensure its success, we must mitigate the risks of oversimplification of complex issues, undue influence from special interest groups, and voter fatigue or confusion. This can be achieved by implementing robust public education campaigns, ensuring transparency in the funding and sponsorship of initiatives, and designing the process to promote clear and well-informed decision-making by voters. By carefully managing these aspects, a state ballot initiative process can serve as a powerful tool for enhancing democratic participation and policy innovation in Hawaii.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign finance summary


Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.


Philip Joseph Ganaban campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* Hawaii House of Representatives District 45Lost primary$5,666 $2,565
Grand total$5,666 $2,565
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. 1.0 1.1 Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on July 9, 2024


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Speaker of the House:Nadine Nakamura
Majority Leader:Sean Quinlan
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