Filipino WWII veterans sue feds over benefits
SAN FRANCISCO — Filipino World War II veterans and widows of those who already have died are suing the federal government over benefit payments that they say are inadequate and discriminatory.
The suit was filed against the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in San Francisco federal court Friday.
It claims one-time payments of either $9,000 or $15,000 given to the Filipino soldiers or their survivors are a pittance compared with what other veterans receive.
Congress approved the payments last year.
The suit demands compensation equal to what other veterans receive, including a pension and health benefits.
About 250,000 Filipinos fought alongside American troops against the Japanese during World War II. Congress promised them pensions but later reneged.
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