Dress Up in the Church

I am glad to read Fr. Bel San Luis, SVD writing about the weight or importance of the Mass which is the most central form of worship for Catholics.

During Mass, the word of the Lord is proclaimed while at the consecration, the bread and wine are transubstantiated into the body and blood of Christ. The Lord of lords is truly there in body and spirit, same as the one whom Thomas declared “My Lord and my God” and Peter professed, “Lord, where do we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

Catholics know that. Call me whatever you want but I am scandalized, especially this summer, seeing Mass goers dressed as if they are going to a beach resort or to a mall --- some chewing gums.

Isn’t it that when you meet one with high social or government stature in his house, you have to dress up? That when you are in that house, you must observe decorum?

The Lord understands poverty for He once said that the poor are always in our midst. One is not required to wear a barong or a gown but won’t you see to it that you wear something good out of reverence to the infinitely most powerful One?

Be attentive and follow the Mass proceedings. Join in praying and in singing --- you don’t have to have the voice of Rico Puno or Pilita Corales. And yes, be a “snub” inside the church. You are there to pray and be intimate with your Maker and not to gossip and trade stories. That can be done before or after the Mass and elsewhere.

We are accustomed in praying the rosary, lighting a votive candle or praying our novena during Mass. While the actions are good and recommended, again, those can be done before or after the Mass and not during the Mass.

I remember Sundays when men were in their barong, polo barong or coat and tie while the women wore dress and a veil. At that time when I was young, I did not understand why some were in formal attire in the church. My Mom said that it is out of respect to the Lord whom we receive during communion.

From then on, on Saturday afternoons, I used to wash, dry and iron my Sunday attire.

I still do that today.

Archbishop Cruz Slams Aquino Anew

Once again, the retired archbishop airs his dismay on the performance of Pres. Noynoy Aquino to the extent that his only achievement is the banning of sirens.

I may not agree with the good archbishop on that point but his questions such as: (1.) "Where is the promised straight path?" (2.) "How should the shout, 'You are my boss' be understood?" need further scrutiny.

My concern is the unabated criminality in the country. Minus the congressional hearings on those allegedly involved in corruption, how many have been sent to jail? Are there no longer warlords in the provinces? These are just a tip of the iceberg if the almost a year presidency of Mr. Aquino is to be scrutinized.

I am pro-Noynoy and can’t forget the spectacle of his victory and inauguration. Yet, at this time, I feel that he really has not done that much to improve the livelihood of the people or ease the suffering of the country.

It is funny to read comments from readers committing the sin of ad hominem asking what achievements Msgr. Cruz have in his advanced years. He could have been a cardinal or a pope, one said. Despite comments like that and others which are void of substance if not puerile; as of now, it is surprising that no one has invoked the separation of Church and State yet to "gag" Cruz. Is it because the vocal and retired prelate is telling the truth and the people agree with? Cruz is not the Church but I really do not understand why separation of Church and State pops up when individual bishops express their opinion based from what they perceive especially when the view dispensed is along the lines of moral issues.

So, Mr. President, are we up to the elimination of sirens only if Msgr. Cruz is to be believed?

Mexico Wins Copa de Oro

A soccer and coffee lover I am, watching the finals of the Gold Cup between US and Mexico over a cup of coffee made my day. In the early part of the game, sweat rolled down from my face not because of the summer heat or the boiling coffee but Mexico, my team in the series, was outscored 2-0. Thereafter, like Phoenix, Mexico resurrected and scored four consecutive goals to which the US was not able to recover.

That is not the end of the story.

The American team thinks that they are slighted when the post game ceremonies were conducted in Spanish before 93,000 spectators. While it is true that it was generally in Spanish, there were a bit of English translations.

Oh well, language issue!

I agree with the US team that the ceremonies should have been in English since the venue is in Pasadena, California. For the benefit of all, the Mexican who took the microphone who looked to be a bilingual should have said his piece in English and Spanish if needing an interpreter was not necessary for him. Too bad, the Mexicans are as proud as the Americans in using their mother tongues. Hopefully, the same incident will not happen again.

Just like in any championship game, the Mexican players were so proud lifting their trophy boasting it to the spectators. The spirit of being a part of a team was so evident that it was time to celebrate unabashedly after exerting their best and their all to win the Cup.

If the country has the resources, it is time that more sports tournaments are encouraged throughout the archipelago to instill the spirit of sportsmanship, discipline and being a member of a team.

That should pave the way for brotherhood if not national unity for peace and tolerance.

For the US team who also gave their best and their all although not enough to conquer Mexico, there are still a lot of games for you to play. I hope that soon, as you lift your trophy in soccer, USA! USA! USA! will be as deafening as ever.

Felicitaciones al equipo Mejicano por ganando el campeonato del Copa de Oro desde tus amigos aqui en Filipinas.

Nationwide Smoking Ban

Think twice before lighting a cigarette or cigar in red zones. Violating the ban (Is it a law?) means paying a P500 fine or doing an eight hour community service.

I have no problem with anti-smoking laws or prohibitions but don’t the smokers have the right to smoke? What right has the government possess to tell its citizens that they are not allowed even to smoke at under and overpasses? In places mentioned in the news? Why don’t they allocate smoking areas in such places?

In North America, smoking is allowed at designated areas in hospital compounds like several meters away from a building, public transportation terminals, mall courtyards and I guess even in government compounds.

What the government must do something about is to find viable solutions to stop if not to minimize air pollution. Twenty four-seven burned gas emitted from smoke-belching vehicles and factories are far worse than the smoke from a cigarette or cigar.  Quiapo where thousands of vehicles ply everyday looks perpetually hazy because of unabated pollution. 

I am not a medical doctor but smoking is not the only one that endangers public health. The stench and germs fanned from garbage dumps or from the Smokey Mountain endanger public health. Unsanitary conditions in the wet area of public markets where flies abound pose health hazards. Name others, you have them.

Why is smoking demonized? I am not saying that it is good but citizens have the right to pursue happiness through smoking; why not?

Hopefully then, Congress will enact a law stopping the tobacco-producing provinces like Ilocos Sur to pursue such livelihood and urge them to venture for alternative crop(s). Cigarette and cigar manufacturing companies should be shut down if the government is really serious in safeguarding public health from smoking.

I wonder if the president, a known chain smoker violates the ban when he smokes anywhere in the Presidential Palace, a public place owned by the people.

Msgr. William Antonio's Episcopal Ordination

The Episcopal ordination of Msgr. William David V. Antonio is set on August 26, 2011 at the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, Vigan City.

For further information please get in touch with the

Nueva Segovia Chancery
Archbishop’s Residence
2700 Vigan City, Ilocos Sur
Tels. (077) 722-2018/ 632-0783
nschancery@yahoo.com.ph


The address, numbers and e-mail are taken from the website of the Archdiocese at http://www.cbcponline.net/jurisdictions/nuevasegovia/contact_us.html

Rizal, Philippine Revolution and the Youth

One informal “Kapihan” I recently had with old and new friends;  still carrying Rizal’s 150th birthday celebration hangover, some were interested in learning my opinion about Jose Rizal and the Philippine Revolution.

No doubt that Pepe is a polymath. Name a career during his time and some even these days --- he was at it but he was not a lawyer. I really am impressed with his genius. Learning 22 languages alone is not peanuts. Not to be overlooked is the fact that Rizal was good-looking. If alive today, most Filipinos don’t care to appreciate his talents. Rizal could be fluent in English today but who can easily understand his ideas on reform and good governance if his tone is philosophically academic citing what other countries and people have done in the past to improve their governments and societies?

Corrupt officials in the government and military establishments would not even care to listen to a man who frowns at vices and a constant advocate of nationalism. He could be a walking encyclopedia in the age of technology and globalization. The fact that the quality of education has dramatically deteriorated and some priorities have shifted from good to worse these can also drive most of us scratching our head with dropping jaws if Rizal takes the podium even when he speaks in Tagalog delivering his reform and nationalism  gospel for the 21st century Philippines.

What appeals to the machismo culture is his love life. Almost everywhere Pepe traveled, he was able to pick an "apple" for his eyes.

Jose Rizal is my man but not my personal national hero. I acknowledge the fact that his Noli and Fili shook the slumbering and oppressed Filipino people with magnitude 6 to rise up and assert their freedom by taking a stand to finally say debemos ser libre. (We must be free.)

Since Rizal is a pacifist long before Gandhi, Marin Luther King, Jr and Ninoy Aquino were born, I cannot figure out how Filipinos would be liberated from the chain of Spanish oppression if armed revolution is not part of the plan. I square with him that Filipinos, ill-equipped and poorly trained should not face a formidable opponent in the battlefield lest a river of Filipino blood is spilled.  There should have been viable other options on the table. Too bad, Mao Tse-Tung and Che Guevara were not Rizal's contemporaries. They could have advised him to employ guerrilla tactics.  On the other hand, although that might work, the oppressed and dehumanized for three centuries can no longer defer waiting for the sunrise of freedom and liberty.

Now enters my personal national hero, Andres Bonifacio. He was an orphan poor boy selling fans and canes but a self-made man.  Gat Andres bravely went to the battlefield leading his men without retreat in his mind till the Spanish rule crumbles. Unfazed with the more advanced weaponry of the enemy, Bonifacio and his gallant men armed themselves with bamboo spear, bolo and a rifle then went to battle to free a shackled nation and end centuries of nightmares, wails and bitter tears..

At this point, imagine an unfolding movie battle scene when some Katipuneros fall one by one but still a small regiment of fighters still brave the rain of bullets risking their lives. They knew they were underdog but Gat Andres thought when will Spanish abuses and oppression end if no one starts the end? Kung walang kikilos, sino'ng kikilos?  Kundi ngayon, kailan pa?  In an intense and realistic scene like that, it would not be bad if movie goers do a standing ovation clapping their hands and raising their fist revering the valor and determination of our ancestors to give us a better life.  In war movies  we  sometimes turn emotional watching gross scenes like the footages of Baler.

Did our heroes die in vain? Did they shed their blood for this country and for us today for nothing? Rizal, Bonifacio, Mabini and other illustrious heroes of the past including Melchora Aquino who did a menial job feeding and housing the Katipuneros did not foresee the Philippines we have today. In all revolutions, peaceful or bloody, a better result is expected thereafter just like the French, Russian, American and Chinese Revolutions that started their gallop as a world or economic power. Well, EDSA-I failed us (Or, did we fail EDSA-I?) but thanks for the democracy and freedom it restored. 

With strong spirit believing that positive change is still possible among us as a people; Rizal, accurate in exhorting the youth as “fair hope of my Fatherland” must be revisited.  Unfortunately, the youth today, who want to be educated, have a job and a future good family are helpless in their quest.  Tuition fees are skyrocketing as if education is a privilege and not a right. And sometimes it is true that “it is not what you know but whom you know” if one has to have source to feed, clothe and shelter his family.

Regrettably, the youth are more preoccupied in the lives of showbiz and sports personalities instead of the heroes'. In short, some of their priorities today are on the wrong side of the fence. How could the youth these days then be the hope of this suffering country when cloud of cynicism, apathy if not ignorance by choice epidemically attack the hope of this nation?

It’s time to seriously revisit Rizal, his writings and the venerable heroes who shed sweat, blood and tears for the country and for us.  Rizal died at a very tender age at 35 but is taller than life. He is perpetually remembered as a man of letters who loved education and loved this republic to the point of facing the firing squad in Bagumbayan.

Juanita Limbago Arrives Home

This story should make Filipinos proud. 

Juanita risked her life in saving her ward from a fatal accident. Instead, the faithful and trustworthy househelp paid the ultimate price.   Her “friend” lives!

Who cares about the job Juanita has?  All ways of living so long as they are honest and moral are dignified and must be respected.  The less fortunate in us are just eking a living to survive in this affluent but abused country.

A heroine comes home without a red carpet or a flag at half mast.  It doesn't matter.  She doesn't need those anyway.  She just wants to be with her family and loved ones for the last time for a farewell.

If she were a North American citizen living in Ontario, Los Angeles; the front of her house could have been full of flowers, balloons, candles, flags and placards honoring her feat.  Many would keep her a vigil till her final goodbye for a heroine comes home in their neighborhood.

Where are those who always say that they are proud Filipinos? You don't come out because Juanita is not a popular personality in the show business, politics or sports? That she is just an ordinary woman across the street?  Shame!  Shame!

Come all out. This is the right time to say that you are proud to be citizens of this country!

Well, what’s the big deal about Juanita’s story?

Risking one’s life to friends and even to strangers for their well-being is a big deal bigger than life and bigger than the best mansion in Makati. Only the brave and the strong can do it.

Not all can do that!

"Still, would I give it (viz. life) thee nor count the cost."

                                           -Jose Rizal (My Last Farewell)

Job well done, Juanita. Rest in peace!

_______________
Read a related topic at:
http://sapientiaaedificat.blogspot.com/2011/05/proud-to-be-filipino.html

¿En Vigan Se Vuelva El Castellano?

Después de saber cerca de la ciudad de Vigan, una amiga que vive en Buenos Aires, Argentina me envió una pregunta por correo electrónico pidiendo mi opinion si es lindo para los residentes de Vigan a aprender por la vuelta Español la verdad que la ciudad es una de mas famosas partes del mundo donde los edificios construidos durante de los tiempos coloniales han sobrevieron.

Es lo que una idea mejor pero yo pienso que hay cosas mas importantes para nosostros a hacer por nuestras familias en medio de los desafíos en nuestro tiempo. No se lo importa, dije, si los nombres de las calles se les cambiado como «avenida» en vez de «avenue» o calle en vez de «street». Tambien, me agregé, que los nombres de las tiendas y edificios comerciales parecen lo mejor si les escrito en español tampoco.

Finalmente, le informé mi amiga argentina que los goviernos de España y Filipinas han firmaron hace un o dos años un acuerdo por la enseñanza de español en este pais otra vez. Al presente, mientras los particulares del acuerdo no han presentado al publico todavia, para nosotros en Vigan a repasar el idoma que se habló aqui cuando se llamaba Ciudad Fernandina se hace sentido si podamos buscar bastante tiempo y si no perdamos preciosos tiempos aprendiendole.

Precisamente es solo para nosotros que amen la vorverse del idioma.

A Born Again Christian

Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. He came to Jesus at night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that you are doing unless God is with him." Jesus answered and said to him, "Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above." Nicodemus said to him, "How can a person once grown old be born again? Surely he cannot reenter his mother's womb and be born again, can he? Jesus answered, "Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I told you, 'You must be born from above.' The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit." Nicodemus answered and said to him, "How can this happen?" Jesus answered and said to him, "You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this? Amen, amen, I say to you, we speak of what we know and we testify to what we have seen, but you people do not accept our testimony.*

Nicodemus; a judge, teacher, master of the Mosaic Law and man of great stature went to Jesus one night for that dialogue. He chose night time because he did not want to be seen and embarrassed asking questions to the son of a carpenter.

Jesus knew that Nicodemus was not an ordinary man and so He gave a not so ordinary answer. Jesus understood that the unassuming teacher did not mean physical rebirth and thus He answers:

"Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit.”

Sometimes when I meet some so-called Born Again Christians, they asked me if I am born again. “Sure, I am!” I said. Then they are interested to know if I do Catholic practices like confessing my sins to a priest, praying the rosary, etc. A little bit irritated sometimes, I say that I am a Catholic and of course, I do.

Well, I don’t want to engage in useless debates but is to be “born again” means demonizing my Catholic faith by saying that its teachings are false? That I have to tear apart my rosary and vandalize my religious icons? That my baptism was invalid and that their baptism if I join them is valid?

Jesus is clear that no one can enter into the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.

I was baptized and I received the sacrament of confirmation. Do my born again Christian friends say that my baptism and confirmation were invalid?

What we Catholics must be born again of should be along the lines of revisiting and accepting Church doctrines, dogmas, practices, and theology. Just like an infant possessing no knowledge, we must be born again to learn and accept what the Church says in totality. We must not choose what we want to follow and leave what we don’t want to appease our fancies. They call that “cafeteria Catholicism”.

Baptism finally is not enough for one’s salvation. A baptized is also tasked to proclaim and live the Good News, i.e. to evangelize as reflected in their daily lives to start with.

A truly born again Christian does not sow confusion if not falsity on the true meaning of to be born again as explained by Christ.

_______________

*Text taken from:

http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible/john/john3.htm#v16

My Dad

I never had a chance greeting Happy Fathers’ Day to my Dad or Happy Mothers’ Day to my Mom. Times were different then but that did not dampen my love and respect for them although many times, I gave them headaches. Now that I am old and a father myself I sincerely regret those stupidities and may they find ways to forgive me and those puerile acts.  Although I don't shed tears in public, copious tears of regret and contrition pained me in private.

I did not belong to a materially blessed family. We were blessed in a different way.

I remember Dad as a stern disciplinarian and an excellent lecturer on growing up issues and how to be a  man of faith and a man of letters. He anchored his points from actual sets of experience he went through as a boy, teen, adult and a spouse. He was fond in using exact and direct to the point words. Sometimes, they are funny, very insulting and sometimes they rip the heart apart but all of them are words of wisdom straight from the book. What I will never forget as long as I live are these words he told me and my brothers: “Tell me that I am  stupid or even nuts but bear in mind that when I will be resting in my cool tomb, you will realize that the words of your stupid father are correct.”

My gush, he was perfectly correct! I now understand that everything he said to us are bull’s eye.  Till now, I can still hear his "lectures" that transformed me into what I am now; trained to "see" and emulate the invisible that is noble and good but never to be impressed with the trivialities in life.

For the words of wisdom and love Tatang, I thank you very much. I missed you both and Nanang and the rest of the household gone ahead. Remember me, my family and us all in your prayers.

This is my humble way of saying that you are the best Dad and well loved till now.  Thank you for the love, care sacrifices and discipline you gave and thank you for the memories of the past.

Till we meet again Tatang and Nanang!

Spanish, Important for Filipinos

While the country is fresh from celebrating the birth of our national hero; one wonders if the language of Don Miguel Cervantes will be introduced again in schools and regain its former status as one of the official languages of the Philippines.

Although there is an agreement forged between the Spanish government and ours to reintroduce the language it is not clear when the said agreement is to be implemented.

One may question the importance of Spanish when as a matter of fact; more and more prefer to use Tagalog instead of English, one of the two official languages of the country. In Congress alone, majority of the lawmakers use Tagalog on the floor.

We should not forget the important fact that our history from the time Spain came till the early 1900s is written in Spanish. There are a lot of important historical materials collecting dust in the national archives that Filipinos cannot read. Imperial Spain’s putting the Philippines into submission is an “old” story. There are more mind-bungling stories that we should read if we are really interested with our past.

We should understand and speak Spanish.

The wave of Filipino exodus remains unchecked. Wherever our compatriots go in Europe or in the US, Spanish is widely spoken. While it is true that we speak English; when abroad, sometimes not all of us can communicate properly because of pronunciation and accent differences. Should we have another language in place, it facilitates commingling with people with different cultures and languages.

Nationalist groups oppose Spanish and even English. According to them, these are vestiges of colonialism. I agree but do they mean that we have to look like an idiot one day when we go abroad that nobody understands our Tagalog, Ilocano, Cebuano, etc? When these nationalists march and protest in the streets, they drive their points in Taglish. Why not 100% Tagalog?

I don’t mean that we have to be a Jose Rizal, a linguist fluent in 22 languages. Wherever he went, he was able to communicate with anyone in their native tongues be it in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese or English. That made him learn more by easily assimilating himself with the culture and the people of his host nations.

The problem is how many of us are interested in learning languages or at least a foreign language? How many of us seriously understand the importance of learning a foreign language in this age of technology and globalization?

I really do not know.

Catholic Youth in Action

It was an interesting exchange of hellos and how are you’s through video conference with friends in North America.

They are interested knowing about the RH Bill in our Congress’ desk and what is the Filipino response. Wondering what’s going on in a Catholic country, few of which are left, I suggested that this Catholic nation is suffering from the tentacles of relativism if not ignorance or indifference. “Sorry to hear that,” they say.

I assured them that our Catholic bishops remain unswayed and as ardent as ever in teaching redemptive moral issues based from the Scriptures.

In turn, I learned that despite the scarcity if not nullity of Catholic news here in the country, youth in North America is zealous in learning more about their faith and strengthening them. They are also generously active in lending their time, talent and blessings to their parishes.

I envy such atmosphere but “I’m sorry, we are a poor country and how I wish we can do the same with even much fervor”.

From what I heard, some could be replicated here.

PRO-LIFERS go from parish to parish soliciting for prayers, cash or in kind for their need in walking on the streets from California to Washington DC, rain or shine, snow or heat; fighting and depending the sanctity of life.

CAR WASH – Youth give their time freely washing cars on Sundays in church parking areas for a fee but all are donated to the parish.

FOOD – Parishioners and youth prepare food for sale but the earnings of the day are all given to the parish.

SUNDAYS – Once a month, after morning Masses, coffee and donuts are free for all but parishioners are encouraged to leave a tip not for the kitchen staff but for the next fellowship. During breakfast, parishioners, old and new exchange their secular stories or about their faith.

YOUTH and YOUNG ADULTS – They get together occasionally and share their faith. They study the Scriptures under the guidance of the parish priest. They play sports or compete with other Catholic teams in the diocese. They attend seminars, talks and other church-related gatherings. They observe a dress code in going to the Church. They serve the Mass. Others are Eucharistic ministers or choir members. Each of them always has a rosary in their pocket and if possible, a Bible in their bag or backpack.

Do these young adults drink, dance and date?

Absolutely they do but without shedding off their Catholic identity. They drink beer but not until their lights are off. They dance but not in disco houses or nigh clubs. They date but I was emphatically told that they strictly observe Catholic dating guidelines. Love comes from anywhere and any time but they prefer to date fellow Catholics.

ACTIVISM – Young adults and without age limit are vocal in denouncing the evils of abortion, euthanasia, same-sex marriage, death penalty, stem cell research and pre-marital sex. They pray in front of abortion clinics and join local or national marches defending the sanctity of life.

Back here at home, we can only pray; pray hard - that Catholics who consider them as such are pushed and enlightened by the Spirit to reinvigorate their faith by opening their hearts and mind in learning or deepening their knowledge on the teachings of the Church handed down to us by the Apostles.

Make no mistake that the Holy Spirit is still working in the Church today and continues to do so. Be sure that the Church will be able to recover from the tempest of sex scandals and other scandals the Church suffers today. After saying that the Church Christ established is free from the gates of hell, it makes no sense for us to say that Christ lied just because things are not going well these days.

“Be not afraid.” In the midst of poverty and uncertainty, do and share what you can to your parishes and to your communities for the Church is active, alive and yes  - - - kicking.

Parties: I Don't Enjoy Them

Whenever there is a birthday in the family, I am really mad to know that a number of recipes should be on the table for the family, friends or guests.

There is nothing wrong with that but the first thing a celebrant has to do is to go to Mass and thank the Lord for all the blessings. Not bad if he also gives thanks for the trials and the cross he carries. They make him stronger if not a blessing in disguise as a way for him to be closer to God amid the daily challenges of life.

I discourage the family holding any kind of party especially birthdays. How good is the food on the table when after all the years of good life and bad, the celebrant does not go to Mass, receive the sacraments and be intimate with God? How appealing are the new attire and accessories no matter how expensive when the Giver is “forgotten”?

I’m not a party spoiler but I made it a point never to attend any kind of party at home or upon invitation. For the wedding of my daughter if she intends to exchange I do’s with her groom in the future, I will be in the church to witness the sacrament of matrimony but I cannot promise to grace the reception.

That should not be interpreted otherwise. Nothing personal but I don’t enjoy parties.

Philippines Should Be Armed

That is the point one columnist tries to drive at with a punch as China continues to flex its muscles in the region. Be it so, where do we get money for military build up when here and there the stink of government incompetence and corruption permeates everywhere? Assuming we have money (borrowed or not), is our pocket as deep as that of the second richest nation on earth?

China is a nuclear powered country with two million troops. Other than that, its arsenal is one of the most advanced in the region. God forbid that if China intends to occupy the Philippines, it can do it at will. We are gallant in the battlefield but how could we fight when we cannot deter just one of its fighter jets in bringing devastation and suffering to the country? China can even do better. They could detonate one of their ICBMs or probably a medium to long range missile and the Philippines is done God forbids.

The United States agrees to take our side and defend us. Shielding us from an attack means that they have to install (if not already installed and working) advanced radar system and missile shield similar with what Israel has. Second, history has to repeat itself. Americans and Filipinos fighting and dying side by side against Japan have to be done again extremely speaking. For this country to be defended once more, a deep-authentic sense of patriotism and discipline are required from us so that we can hand down a better country to next generations.

The Philippines cannot defend itself alone.  The government struggles to contain the Communist New People's Army and the terrorist Abu Sayyaf --- corn ears compared with China's military might. 

The United States, committed to defend the Philippines by virtue of the Mutual Defense Pact cannot defend this country by simply installing radars and missile shields.  If worse comes to worst, the US must use its superior military might and manpower to save the Philippines from destruction.

These days, may I ask, how patriotic and disciplined are we especially our leaders? Headlines have the verdict.

If I say that we have no unity and blueprint for a better tomorrow, I believe that many agree with me. Had we have these long time ago, this country is now at par with South Korea if not Singapore or even better.

As the situation in the West Philippine Sea gets more interesting, the Philippines sends its only but the best destroyer/frigate World War II vintage BRP Rajah Humabon in the area.

Can it survive from just one attack from a Chinese fighter jet? Can the Rajah Humabon defend itself?

Sending the “paper boat” in the area asserts our claim on the disputed island telling the world that no matter how small and primitive our weapons are, we are there like an ant but too bad, they just laugh at us.

Say that missile shields are activated, how do we stop one million Chinese invading the country? As I always say, these are interesting times in the history of our nation. Now is the ripe time for us to be united and reinvent ourselves and our visions for a better Philippines.

Tomorrow might be too late.  I hope that the situation will not escalate and may the Chinese who are our friends even before Spain reached our land find ways with our government to settle the issue peacefully and amicably as neighbors and as members of the family of nations.

"Mi Ultimo Adios": Can You Still Recite It?

Each June on Jose Rizal's birthday, his last and famous poem, Mi Ultimo Adios is occasionally delivered in public or visited in the internet. To be honest, compared with a demised old man's I know, not one YouTube version delivery is as good as Tata (An Ilocano polite address to old men.)  Ciano's almost perfect Spanish rendition.

Ponciano Rola is from San Vicente, Ilocos Sur. I believe that he did not finish high school but went to school before the war. He was an unassuming man but with a special talent. He knows by heart Rizal's farewell poem in three languages: Spanish, English and Ilocano. His Spanish pronunciation is not far from that of the Spanish Dominicans then of the Sto. Tomas University.

When Spanish was still a requirement in college for graduation, in our school, for our finals, we were required to memorize it. As a young student, after spending a lot of time memorizing a poem with some unfamiliar words, (A good number of Spanish words are Ilocanized.) I was able to deliver it. Today, I can still do some stanzas but no longer all.

Here is the Spanish version.

Espero que nuestros compatriotas, Espanoles y todos que hablen Espanol en cualquier lugar se busquen goce en el poema.

Adios Patria adorada region del sol querida

Perla del Mar de Oriente nuestro perdido Eden

A darte voy alegre la triste mustia vida

Y fuera mas brillante mas fresca mas florida

Tambien por ti la diera la diera por tu bien.

En campos de batalla luchando con delirio

Otros te dan sus vidas sin dudas sin pesar

El sitio nada importa cipres laurel o lirio

Cadalso o campo abiertocombate o cruel martirio

Mo mismo es si lo piden la patria y el hogar.

Yo muero cuando veo que el cielo se colora

Y al fin anuncia el dia tras lobrego capuz

Si grana necesitas para tenir tu aurora

Vierte la sangre mia derramala en buen hora

Y dorela un reflejo de su naciente luz.

Mis suenos cuando apenas nino adolescente

Mis suenos cuando joven ya lleno de vigor

Fueron el verte un dia joya del mar de oriente

Secos los negros ojos alta la tersa frente

Sin ceno sin arugas sin manchas de rubor.

Ensueno de mi vida mi ardiente vivo anhelo

Salud te grita el alma que pronto va a partir

Salud! oh que es hermoso caer por darte vuelo

Morir por darte vida morir bajo tu cielo

Y en tu encantada tierra la eternidad dormir.

Si sobre mi sepulcro vieres brotar un dia

Entre la espesa yerba sencilla humilde flor

Acercala a tus labios y besa alalma mia

Y sienta yo en mi frente bajo la tumba fria

De tu ternura el soplo de tu halito calor.

Deja a la luna verme con luz tranquila y suave

Deja que el alba envie su resplendor fugaz

Deja gemir al viento con su murmullo grave

Y si desciende y posa sobre mi cruz con ave

Deja que el ave entone su cantico de paz.

Deja que el sol ardiento las lluvias evapore

Y al cielo tornen puras con mi clamor en pos

Deja que un ser amigo mi fin temprano llore

Y en las serenas tardes cuando por mi alguien ore

Ora tambien Oh Patria por mi descanso a Dios.

Ora por todos cuantos murieron sin ventura

Por cuantos padacieron tormentos sin igual

Por nuestras probres madres que gimen su amargura

Por huerfanos y viudas por presos de tortura

Y ora por ti que veas tu redencion final.

Y cuando en noche oscura se envuelva el cemeterio

Y solos solo muertos queden velando alli

No turbes su reposo no turbes el misterio

Tal vez acordes oigas de citara o salterio

Soy yo querida Patria yo que te canto a ti.

Y cuando ya mi tumba de todos olvidada

No tenga cruz ni piedra que marquen su lugar

Dejas que la are el hombre la esparza con la azada

Y mis cenizas antes que vuelvan a la nada

El polvo de tu alfombra que vayan a formar.

Entonces nada importa me pongas en olvido

Tu atmosfera tu espacio tus valles cruzare

Vibrante y limpia nota sere para tu oido

Aroma luz colores rumor canto gemido

Constante repitiendo la esencia de mi fe

Mi Patria idolatrada dolor de mis dolores

Querida Filipinas oye el poster adios

Voy donde no has esclavos verdugos ni opresores

Donde la fe no mata donde el que reyna es Dios

Adios padres y hermanos trozos de mi alma

Amigos de la infancia en el perdido hogar

Dad gracias que descanso del fatigoso dia

Adios dulce entrangera mi amiga mi alegria

Adios queridos seres morir es descansar.

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Note:  Believing that one who reads the poem has more or less Spanish background, I intentionally did not use Spanish orthography and punctuations.   --COR INVICTUS

Msgr. William David Antonio - New Auxiliary Bishop of NS

Congratulations to Monsignor David William Valencia Antonio of Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur for his appointment as the auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia (NS).

May the Holy Spirit guide, strengthen and embolden him to be the shepherd of all especially the weak, the oppressed, the dehumanized, the voiceless and the powerless.

God bless you!

_________________________________________

NB:  Msgr. William Antonio, 48 on December 1, could become the youngest archbishop of the country and Nueva Segovia it ever had if Archbishop Ernesto Salgado, 75 this November 22 files his resignation on his birthday and accepted by the Pontiff.

_______________

Photo Courtesy:

http://www.icstvigan.org.ph/ICST_COMMUNITY/ADMINISTRATION.html

Church Sues Gloria M. Arroyo

I read this news several hours after it was available online. The story is about the slain members of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) from 2004 to 2007 when Mrs. Arroyo was in power.

It is now late in the afternoon but I still have to learn loquacious Filipinos invoking again the separation of Church and State.

So far, (I could be mistaken) I have not heard or read any.

If the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) were the plaintiff, by now, much, not even good for the dog could have been articulated against the Catholic Church. But there is a silence? Is the Catholic Church the only church in the country? Is it okay for other churches to be politically involved but it is wrong for the Catholic Church to do the same? Is it okay for other non-Catholic clergies to exercise their rights as citizens but the Catholic clergy are second class citizens that they are not allowed to exercise their rights enshrined in the Bill of Rights?

The Catholic Church is simply a teacher that spells out what are morally good and bad. Thereafter, she suggests solutions to correct what is not right.

It must not be forgotten that although the Church is an infallible teacher of morals and faith, its hierarchy is made up of human being --- sinners like all of us.

With due respect to the UCCP; since the advocates of the separation of Church and State are silent, it is fair to assume that the UCCP hierarchy has not done anything wrong personally or otherwise?

Do we only invoke the separation of Church and State when the Catholic Church speaks because we don’t like what her authorities tell?

If not, what would it be?

Dallas Mavericks Trounce Miami Heat

I’m accurate.

Mavericks in 6 to 7 games. At first, I wanted to peg Game 6 but I thought Miami’s heat doesn’t run out of gas and choke.

Nowitzki was really struggling but was able to make critical shots. His off day probably, but carried by Terry in one of the most talked about finals in the NBA history.

At the beginning of the season, James, 27; Wade, 29 and Bosh, 27 were presented to the public with much pageantry. Many thought that the three can guarantee a championship for the Miami Heat.

That is not the case.

Credit should be given to coach Erik Spoelstra for giving life to the over-rated Heat who started the season miserably but reach the finals anyway. In any sports, the coach tells how to play the game but does not play it personally.

In any sports, age matters. Nowitzki, 33; Kidd, 38 and Terry, 34 are old compared with the Miami trio. They showed a big heart, determination and courage to face a more formidable and younger opponents despite the mocking of their arrogant rivals who thought that they were invincible in the court.

The game is over. 

James and Wade no longer cough but miserably choked in winning  the ring.

Congratulations to the Mavericks, its fans and Cleveland (in joining the "scuffle") but watch your back --- my Boston Celtics will get you next season.

. . . if you don't get them first.

James and Wade Smell Foul

There’s a clip showing the two Miami Heat stars feigning cough and illness before their pivotal Game 5 with the Dallas Mavericks mocking Dirk Nowitzki.

The press has stories telling the Mavericks’ star to have a sinus infection causing him to have a high temperature.

Wade said that he was not impressed with the story and believes that Nowitzki is just clowning as his team suffers defeat in Game 4.

I am sure that Wade, although refuses to say it in public, was impressed with the determination of Dallas thru its German shepherd to win the series after his team melted down again in the last minutes of the fourth quarter in Game 5.

Wade and James have millions of fans including kids. How could the two acted foolishly in mocking someone who is sick? If a kid in Miami apes a paraplegic or a disabled in the streets of Miami or San Francisco but when confronted by his parent answers “I got the cue from Wade and James that it is okay to make fun of the sick,” why should a lot idolize these players. It is true that their character has nothing to do in the basketball court but character makes a man.

James and Wade will be both impressed and amazed that despite the conviction of many that they win the NBA trophy, Dallas will be showered with confetti and champagne this Sunday evening if not in the Game 7.

The heat is on in Texas but will be doused by the unbelievable performance of the tenacious Mavericks bringing home the much coveted trophy.

Too bad, my Boston Celtics miserably lost to the Heat, a much better and younger team!

Are You a Mass Comm Student?

My professor-friend from Ilocos Norte believes that the Mass Communications course is dying in Ilocos Norte because of small enrollees. Here in Vigan, I don’t have the statistics.

Let me limit what I say on just two branches of the course: journalism and broadcasting.

The two may look easy but that is not the case. In journalism, one might have excellent thoughts but if he does not know how to put them in writing, there is a problem. Same is true that something is wrong when an excellent writer has no idea to write. Even if he has ideas, the other to be considered is how to write them.

Broadcasting is not simply talking garbage or senseless commentaries. Wide reading fills up the mind on current national and international issues. It is not enough to rely on the Wikipedia on the computer on top of the console. Stock knowledge on issues is a must.

Same in journalism, in broadcasting, there must be a “Ying and Yang” of knowledge and how to say something to a target audience or the audience as a whole.

Although not necessarily the most important qualification of a broadcaster, he must have a good voice. Other than that, a broadcaster must develop his “on air” personality which can be summed up along the lines of:

a. knowledge on who the audience is
b. method of delivery
c. knowledge of the subject
d. demeanor while on the air
e. professionalism
f. credibility
g. integrity

Hopefully Mass Comm graduate in four years will give Vigan a new aura in broadcasting and in journalism as well.

But how hopeful is our hope?

Pacman Now in Forbes: Who Cares?

The press tells that Rep. Manny Pacquiao recently purchased  a house in Forbes Park and another in the nearby Dasmarinas Village --- both millionaires’ subdivision.

What’s important about the houses when we know that he honestly earned them?

Do the A and B classes care about the news? (Well, they are the minority, anyway.) The people are interested to know the congressman’s performance in Congress like his recent debate with colleague Edcel Lagman. Filipinos must know that when Pacman has a fight, he absents himself in the House to legislate. That is his job as an elected official. The people pay him for his legislative duties and not as a boxer.

I hope that when he is busy training for weeks, he is not paid from the people’s money. If paid, known for his good demeanor, I hope that Mr. Pacquiao returns it for he knows that he does not deserve to be paid when he is absent. Rep. Pacquiao must not be a part-time congressman or a part-time boxer. He either resigns in the House or hangs his gloves so that he can do his task better.

No one can do two things with equal excellence.

There are other residents of both Forbes and Dasmarinas but the press does not say who they are.  So, what’s special about Pacman? He brings home honor for the country? True; but does he have the monopoly in doing that? How about the Filipino professors in American and European universities? Here at home, how about the fading tribe who refuses to cooperate in graft and corruption although they are un-named and faceless?

They also make this country honorable but most of us are hypnotized if not foolishly possessed with boxing.

Ang Dios ay Pag-ibig (God is Love)

Don't be afraid to love, trust and believe in God's love.

Despite the many divisions that set us apart as Filipinos and as a nation, despite the difficulties and trials everyday, let us entrust the Philippines and us into His hands and let Him be in command! He loves us so much but are we reciprocating His love?
In this Pentecost, may the Spirit descend into this country and upon us for a "new Pentecost" to embolden us to preach and follow the Truth  to the ends of this country and beyond. May we see the inextinguishable Light that leads us to Truth.

Currently, Spratly issue percolates, RH Bill sharply divides us; Abortion Bill issue springs and will set us apart.  Around are social injustices oppressing and dehumanizing us. 
We need help.  We need rest.

This country and its citizens are tired!  Hear the call of the Good Shepherd who is LOVE:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

No to Marcos Burial at the Libingan!

Hopefully, Ferdinand Marcos, once a brutal dictator, is interred soon in Ilocos Norte either in Batac or in Sarrat. His family now supports Ilocos Norte’s favorite son’s burial with full military honors in his home province. News says that Gov. Imee Marcos has still to confer with vice President Binay for a possible fine tuning.

Pres. Aquino, I understand, has the final say on his father’s political nemesis’ burial. He has the final say although it is unimaginable for him to allow the former dictator to be interred in the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

Personally, I don’t think that the former dictator deserves military honor.

Why now that they give him the 21-gun salute when in 1986, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Filipinos toppled him? Marcos was so lucky that he and his family were “kidnapped” according to Sen. Bongbong Marcos otherwise; if the angry, oppressed and brutalized people caught them in the Palace, the Marcoses could have met the fate of the Romanovs.

The former First Lady said that not all in the Libingan go to heaven.

I agree with that for the fate of a soul is only known to God. However if I were her in that advance age, that should not be my concern. Instead, it’s time for me to honestly search my soul and ask if I and my husband go to heaven.

Why is the Marcos family too eager that their patriarch be buried in the Libingan when others who deserve the honor more like Ninoy and Cory Aquino are not even there?

We hope that the remains of Marcos will be put to rest finally but the Filipino people whom he oppressed and brutalized will not rest in defending the truth that Marcos was a brutal dictator.

Church Voice: Needed to End Political Dynasties

While I agree with the well researched analysis on the issue of political dynasty in the province, the recommendations on how to neutralize if not to eradicate the malignant social tumor is a long run solution although I perfectly agree with them.

After an honest evaluation on the sad facts of political dynasty, my sincere assessment tells that the social “evil” will never be eradicated because of poverty, acute understanding of the people on the evils of political dynasty as spelled out in the article and the fangless political power of the government to impose social justice.

The issue on political dynasty is a complex. To start with, there should be an authoritative and dependable voice from the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia to start a crusade telling the people the damning effects of political dynasty and the liberating facets of a fair and square elections as an instrument to end a family political business.

I believe that the Church should ignite a crusade and be followed by people or groups of goodwill who has the courage to say NO to the evils of political dynasty. The Church has no political interests other than to define what is moral and immoral that affects the government and society. Although weakened by sex scandals, history has a lot of stories saying that the Church has a strong and valid voice on moral issues.

The Church cannot remain silent or cross her arms even in the face of threat, intimidation or personal assassination of her leaders and members. The Church must have a voice.

Jaime Cardinal Sin in a critical moment in a time of our history decided to follow the example of God of the Old Testament who liberated His people from Pharaoh’s oppression. The good cardinal liberated the chained and oppressed Filipinos by taking a stand in asking the people to say “enough” to a ruthless and unpopular dictatorship to which the citizenry responded overwhelmingly.

Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador sided his suffering people. He paid dearly giving his life when his voice, the voice of the voiceless, of the poor, of the oppressed and the dehumanized people of his country was permanently silenced.

Blessed John Paul II took a stand in saying “enough” to communism. In his fight against a Godless form of government, he almost lost his life.

It’s time for the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia to take a stand no matter how unpopular in saying “enough” to political dynasty(ies) without fear.

Jesus started a crusade to spread the Good News with just 12 apostles. Two thousand years later, Catholics are one billion strong from all corners of the earth.

Nueva Segovia’s time has come to make one critical stand. Your flock needs you. Your flock looks up upon you. Your flock longs to hear your liberating voice. Your flock needs you to free them out from the evil of political dynasty(ies).

This may also be a long run solution but for the Church to start toning up her voice in a sea of complacency and ignorance a spark to start a change waking up the people from the lethargy of apathy may be instant.

May it be so!

Political Dynasty: An Analysis

Aftermath of the Congressional Elections in Ilocos Sur: Why Political Dynasty Exists and Persists?

(Post Election Analysis)

Introduction:

In a candidates’ forum, a candidate was asked about this question: “What is your stand on political dynasty? If you win the congressional elections, what will you do to eradicate political dynasty?” The candidate being a scion of the reigning political dynasty answered, “Is it my fault if the people like my family? My father who is a governor for a long time has done many good things for the people.” The answer is defensive and “off tangent”. Reality reveals that political dynasty in Ilocos Sur has not accomplished much to improved the life of most of the families in the province. Most families do not really favor political dynasty. The truth is, they are only pressured and forced to vote for political dynasty, due to the influence of “money” coupled with “intimidation and threat” from political power. In short, political dynasty is not borne out of freewill. It is imposed.

Besides, Anti-Political Dynasty Law is enshrined in the Philippine Constitution which is the fundamental law of the land. The essence of the law is to spare the nation from authoritarian rule which has gripped the people in recent decades. The spirit of the law is to develop and enable the political system to mature, to emerge new breed of leaders who will truly represent and advance the interests of the majority poor, not for the interests of the few ruling political elite. A Political Science dictum says, “Political dynasty is contrary to the fundamental elements of a democratic government. Political dynasty is equivalent to “authoritarianism”.

One radio announcer said, “What is wrong with political dynasty, even China has “Ming” and other dynasties.” A religious leader also argued, “There nothing wrong with political dynasty as long as they perform well”. These are short sighted comments and opinions. Political dynasty in China occurred before the advent of political civilization in Greece. Democracy originated from ancient Greece before it went to America where the Philippines patterned her democratic form of government. China has no democratic electoral process yet in those ancient times, and this gave rise to political dynasties. It is quite incorrect to compare ancient China with the Philippines with a democratic form of government. Political dynasty cannot be allowed simply because it is performing well. A structure of sin remains “sinful” unless it is transformed from its sinful system. The “being” of political dynasty is wrong from the very start. Therefore it can never be correct in any sense. As a matter of fact, 50 years of political dynasty has derailed political maturity in the democratic government in Ilocos Sur.

What are the dominant features of a political dynasty in Ilocos Sur?

Since the post war era, political dynasty in Ilocos Sur originated from few elite families in Vigan, the premier town of the province. Political elite families used to take turns in controlling the political reign. Violence was a main feature of power struggle at that time. He who has the guns and goons ruled. Political elitism in Vigan was the genesis of political dynasty which has now spread through out the entire province with the original political lord still “remote controlling” the power lineage, from the provincial down to the barangay level. Based on the 2010 election results, more than 85% of the municipalities in Ilocos Sur are under political dynasties, ruled by one political family even beyond the term limit prescribed by law. Political dynasty reveals its “shameless face” with husband and wife, father and daughter, mother and son occupying top posts of the town. If the term expires, the one at the top will slide down to lower position to give way to another family member. If another term expires, another member of the same family will take over the reign. Political positions have become a family owned and controlled business, transferred onto family members on a silver platter. The only minimum qualification one must have is that, “you should belong to a political bloodline’’ or “you must be an ally or loyal to the political lord”.

Another ugly feature of political dynasty in Ilocos Sur is unopposed candidacy. Potential or possible opposition are either bribed with millions of pesos, or offered with political positions, to back out from the election contest. Worst is, political oppositions are threatened or eliminated by violent death. Most if not all the municipal mayors, barangay officials, tanod, SK and civic organizations are all gripped, controlled and subservient to the political lord. They perceive that they owe their political survival to the political lord. If ever they intend to oppose their political master, they will be “kicked out” from the power lineage and it will be the end of their political career. Or they will be threatened with “no projects and no funds”. This is the dirty tactic of the political lord to manipulate and dictate everyone in the power line up. Thus, allegiance is no longer on the people, but to the political kingpin. Elective position is no longer at the service of the people, but for political survival and for greed of power.

2. What are the factors or pressures that allow the existence and persistence of political dynasty?

The very of root of political dynasty is “money”. Political power stands on “money”. For political dynasty to stay on, it must buy votes, it should buy principles, it could also buy morality, it buys freedom, and it buys the law. Politics of money buy elected barangay officials for forced support and loyalty, it bribes mass media to distort the truth, it donates to institutional religion to project a “saintly image”, thus religion is gagged and it can not speak about the truth. Money is the root of all the evils of political dynasty as social sin. Government agencies are gripped and controlled by political dynasty. This explains why election laws are not fully implemented; it only favors the political dynasty. There are so many violations of election laws during election time, such as massive vote buying, improper posting of campaign materials, partisan politics of barangay officials, etc. but government agencies concerned remained deaf, mute and blind. Another factor why political dynasty lingers on is that, local mass media is controlled and gripped by those in political reign. Local mass media is commercialized. It reinvents stories to build up the image of those who can give the “highest bidder”. Freedom of the press is muffled by money. Truth is distorted. Partisan politics and vote selling by barangay officials, tanod, SK and civic organizations also contribute to the existence and persistence of political dynasty. Although it is clearly prohibited by law, partisan politics and vote selling of barangay officials, tanod, SK and civic organizations have become so organized, rampant, massive and “shameless”. They use “code” to monitor and ensure that vote buying will result favorably for the interest of political dynasty. Institutional religion is also a factor that allows political dynasty to flourish. Religious leaders are complacent and cannot perform independently their prophetic mission to denounce the evils of political dynasty. Donations and other luxurious favors received from political dynasty have the institutional religion beholden to the political power, thus the radical Gospel is compromised. The convenient escape is “neutrality”. This is tantamount to approving the evils of political dynasty. Low political consciousness of families is also contributory to the existence and persistence of political dynasty as an oppressive social system. The culture of “authority centeredness” pressures families to succumb to the dictates of elected officials in their locality. The threat of being persecuted or isolated adds to the pressure. That is why families, despite their long standing clamor for political change, are subverted by the pressure of money and authority. Political dynasty has eroded the value systems that families are not able to see what is right and what is wrong. This is the evil of political dynasty. It snatched away the capacity to discern and the freedom to act conscientiously.

3. What is the mathematics and system of vote buying that ensures winning an election contest?

Vote buying by political dynasty has become organized that focuses on bribing elected officials to ensure the “authority factor” to implement vote buying. Vote buying comes in “disguise” as “balato or pasalubong”. But this is very clear from its timing and motive, that it is vote buying in all its intents and purposes. The mathematics of organized vote buying will ensure the bigger percentage to win the election contest. That is why municipal mayors are given cash to pressure loyalty and support. Town mayors, who cling to the political master for survival, will now order barangay officials, tanod, SK and civic organizations to follow the power line up. Fearful of being kicked out of the power hold, elected officials had no other recourse but to “bite the bullet”. To ensure bigger percentage of votes, 10 barangay officials, 20 tanod, SK chairmen, 50 members of RIC, 50 poll watchers, 10 appointed barangay workers, are each given money. That’s about 150 voters being bought. This number is multiplied by 3, because of household family members, that sums up to 300-350 voters already being bought. For every barangay, this number is equivalent to 70%-80% of the total number of voters in the barangay. The political dynasty which has the capacity to buy votes is now assured of winning the elections. To monitor that vote buying is effective, barangay officials use their local authority to pressure the voters. “Code” is used to make sure that those who received cash will not falter in voting for the political candidate who distributed the “money”. Election officials and government agencies are allegedly bribed to make it appear that there is no ‘’vote buying and partisan politics” taking place. Thus, vote buying is organized and massive. This is a system that permits political dynasty. It is not correct to say that political dynasty is favored by the people. It is not.

4. What makes vote buying the most effective strategy of winning an election?

Vote buying thrives as effective strategy of winning an election contest due to the following reasons:

a) Political dynasty channels its vote buying through the elected official in the base so that the element of “authority” is there to pressure and monitor the voters. A name of a candidate written on a strip of paper is used as a “code”.

b) Political dynasty dictates government agencies concerned so that election and other related laws are not implemented to impede the system of vote buying.

c) Local mass media is bribed to keep mum on the system of vote buying during election period. In Ilocos Sur, you do not hear anything about massive vote buying being discussed and/or condemned in local radio and TV stations. What was broadcast instead is that, “elections are credible and peaceful”. No local radio or TV station will dare to expose the truth about vote buying.

d) Culture of families is distorted that it can no longer differentiate what is wrong and what is correct. The independence of the mind is tampered by pressure of money and authority. That’s why they still vote a candidate known to be allied with drugs, jueteng, corruption and unsolved crimes.

5. What are the adverse effects of vote buying as main strategy of political dynasty?

Vote buying ruins the value systems of people. It destroys culture. Freedom is sabotaged by vote buying. It makes elected officials hostage of the political lord. It is enslaving. It rapes human dignity. Vote buying impedes development and maturity of the political system. Fundamental to a maturing political system is the “dynamics of change” in the person and character of political leadership. Vote buying stagnates and deteriorates the political system, to the detriment of the majority and to the betterment of those in power. Vote buying impedes integral development. Basic social services and government projects are not implemented. They are rather used as tools to manipulate people and pressure political loyalty and support. Vote buying breeds corruption in large scale as a “return of investment” on the election expenses. Vote buying breach the integrity, credibility and authenticity of the electoral process. It dilutes the sanctity of the right of suffrage. It translates suffrage into a commodity that can be bought in market. Vote buying hinders the true will of the people. It discourages a healthy opposition which is a basic requirement of elections. If vote buying is unabated, people will totally lose their trust in the electoral system. This will pave the way to "authoritarianism".  Vote buying put governance in a weak and shaky foundation. It does not reflect trust and respect from the people. The mind of the people will be conditioned that political position is acquired by means of money, not performance, not integrity, not capability.

6. What are the mission challenges that must be embraced in order that political dynasty must be stamped out?

The mission challenges will now reside on the poor. It can not be on the elected officials and civic organizations because they are all at the power lineage, and they are gripped and controlled by the political dynasty. Local mass media is not a reliable bastion of truth. Institutional religion with weakling leadership is not a dependable refuge. It is the only the poor, the ones who defied the pressure of political dynasty, the ones who upheld the ideals of democracy. They are the seedbed of hope to carry on the challenges of these difficult and trying times. There are three essentials challenges that must be embraced and continued by the families in the base communities:

a) Continue denouncing political dynasty as the social evil that threatens life. Continue with firm resolution to facilitate people to gradually shift their consciousness and paradigm. This is the key to eventual transformation and liberation.

b) Continue living as family with critical and independent mind. This will facilitate dissociation from the shackles of political dynasty. Living simply within the means is the key to eroding the foundations of political dynasty by extricating one's self from the grip of those in political power. Political dynasty is a system of sin; therefore it must be avoided like a dreaded cancer.

c) Denouncing and dissociating from political dynasty cannot be complete without  families pursuing economic responses to achieve a secured life, free from dole out and control of enslaving political dynasty. Families in the communities must act collectively to implement the following: sustainable and communal potable water system, food security for each family in the communities, organic farming and sustainable agriculture, community based health and herbal preventive medicine, youth formation for restoration of liberating culture, and animating leadership for collective mobilization.

To summarize the challenges: Denounce the evil of political dynasty (political challenge). Dissociate from the lures and grip of political dynasty (cultural challenge). Do economic responses for a secured life in the base communities (economic challenge). These are the dynamics of liberation. This is the Kingdom of God.

Conclusion:

The result of the recent special elections for congressman in the first district of Ilocos Sur does not reflect the authentic will of the people, because it is tampered with vote buying, partisan politics and violation of election Laws. In short, the political dynasty is imposed on the people through fraudulent means. The margin of winning does not guarantee an overwhelming support, because the element of “money” puts a question to the credibility and integrity of the elections. The lesser number of the election results represents a kind of consciousness that can never be bought by money. The bigger number in the election results will show the volume of money that was distributed. The number of around 40-50 thousand who did not vote indicate their lost of interest on the electoral process which is usually marred by "money”. Without vote buying and partisan politics, the result of the elections could have been totally different.

Political dynasty is a social sin that is a blatant threat to human dignity and life. By the systems it employs, it tampers freedom and subverts the truth. These are the basic elements of social justice. But political dynasty suppresses all these, by the use of “money” and “authority”. And this it does without a hint of remorse and conversion.

Political dynasty is likened to a thief who comes to destroy, to steal and to kill. Political dynasty destroys culture, destroys laws. It destroys the youth by drugs. Political dynasty steals people’s money through jueteng and corruption. Political dynasty threatens anyone who opposes, and kills anyone who dares to challenge his/her reign. That is political dynasty as evil. Its vulnerable victims are the poor and the defenseless.

To be neutral with political dynasty is tantamount to consenting its evil ways and systems. It is equivalent to conniving to oppress the poor. To denounce the evils of political dynasty is “imperative”. To dissociate from it is freedom from slavery, and to do economic responses for a secured life, is the mission of the Kingdom. The hope of the Kingdom Mission is the liberating consciousness of those who upheld the ideals of democracy. There is where the God of Justice is. This shall be the antidote of political dynasty.

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 Note:  Style is massively edited.

Source:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000917577111

Baby To Be Aborted Is Saved*

That was some years ago when my friend was under stress and psychologically disturbed. The fangs of a difficult life caught her. She and her live-in partner have decided to end their baby’s life at the age of three months I believe.

They told me their plan. I reminded them both that a baby in the womb is a human being with rights and dignity and to abort a life in the womb is murder for it stops the beating heart of a defenseless person.

Days after thinking what options they have left, my friend Ruth (not her real name) told me that on a specific day, they will go to an abortion clinic. I told them again, “Please NO. Don’t do it,” but she said that they already made up their mind.

On that day when an innocent and defenseless life was about to be murdered, I went to a nearby church and asked the Lord through Mary to please save the child. I left the church leaving the fate of the baby into Mary’s care and God’s mercy.

In the mean time a mutual friend on the other line told me that while they were on their way to the abortion clinic, Ruth changed her mind and went home.

At the time when she changed her mind, I was right inside the church. Well, it was a coincidence?

I don’t see it that way for God is always on the side of the defenseless, the voiceless, the oppressed and victims of social injustices and hatred.

The good-looking boy is now more than three years old, my baptism godson. I was and I still am very thankful. The small voice of a sinner in me was heard.

I hope that Ruth will soon tie the knot with her boyfriend.

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*This story really happened. -COR INVICTUS

I Found God If Not The Reverse

When you walk through a storm

Hold your head up high

And don't be afraid of the dark

At the end of the storm

Is a golden sky

And the sweet silver song of the lark

Walk on through the wind

Walk on through the rain

Though your dreams be tossed and blown

Walk on walk on with hope in your heart

And you'll never walk alone

You'll never walk alone

When you walk through a storm

Hold your head up high

And don't be afraid of the dark

At the end of the storm

Is a golden sky

And the sweet silver song of the lark

Walk on through the wind

Walk on through the rain

Though your dreams be tossed and blown

Walk on walk on with hope in your heart

And you'll never walk alone

You'll never walk

You'll never walk

You'll never walk alone.

What about this song?

I just want to share the personal experience of my friend who shared me his story on Ascension Day. Part of his Ilocano testimony goes:

“I had no chance to go to the parish for two weeks where I usually go for confession. I went to another parish for the sacrament of reconciliation. After the priest gave me the absolution, he said “Thank you for dropping by.”

How did he know that I don’t go to his parish very often?

When I was on my knees doing my penance, the music in the church was playing ‘Walk on with faith in your heart and you’ll never walk alone. You'll never walk alone.’

What came to my mind believing to be the voice of God was:  'at the end of the storm is a golden sky when God answers my prayers and that He is always with in these difficult times.'

The more that I am convinced that it was His voice when the end of the Gospel runs. ‘I am with you always until the end of age.'

I was moved to tears. God has surely given me a message --- that is for me to have faith and I will never walk alone in the tempest of life.

At this point when I only see one set of my footprint, the good Lord is carrying me with mercy and compassion.

. . . During the Mass, a brother and a sister were baptized before the congregation. When the girl, I believe three years old was being baptized and carried to the baptismal font, she cried; probably, scared. When it was the turn of her little brother to be poured with water, the girl laughed looking at her brother. The community also laughed not because the girl laughed but reminded that one of the gifts of the Spirit is understanding. Did the girl understand that she and her brother  officially became members of God’s family and of the parish?

The two little ones were warmly welcomed by the congregation with standing ovation and loud claps  --- now their brothers and sisters in faith.

These are little things but in them, you encounter God for He works in mysterious ways. It is not necessary for you to go to Holy Land or to Rome to find God. You can find Him mysteriously anywhere or God can find you, revealing Himself mysteriously anywhere."

 The story speaks for itself.

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Lyrics courtesy of:

http://www.risa.co.uk/sla/song.php?songid=16078