Grade VII and Fifth Year Addition

I am not sure how serious the government is in adding Grade VII and a Fifth Year in the elementary and secondary schools. The government believes that with two years more before college, students are better prepared to undertake their chosen careers.

I have no competence to discuss the issue scientifically but I have the following to share.

There were a lot of anecdotes about pre-World War II elementary pupils in our town that continue to fascinate me. During family hours at the living room illuminated with kerosene-fueled lantern, before or after night prayers, my grandparents and parents used to relate stories and tales when they were kids or in their youth.

In their elementary days, they can show right away the map of any country from the rotating globe. Dates and name of historical events and figures were at their finger tips in their History class. If my grandma was not bragging; in their music class, they can read the notes of any song where their teacher stops in opening at random the music book.

When I was practicing conversational English with my Dad, Mom’s patience was short with my grammatical errors before telling that in their time, their English was fluent and grammatical. (The Philippines was under the United States.)

The claim was unbelievable to me until on one occasion, my doubts were cleared. I heard a pre-War high school drop out known to be on the top of her class conversed with her distant granddaughter in English. She did not speak Tagalog because it was not in their curriculum.

True, she was fluent without minding the pauses where she appeared to be looking for the right English word. The old lady knew the Seven Wonders of the World. She was familiar with American history and World geography aside from almost answering instantly what is the capital of a particular country. Shots of gin did not lessen her knowledge on the Pythagorean Theorem that "C equals the square root of A square plus B square". To make her point better, she started grabbing a pencil drawing a right triangle, assigned figures on the sides and started to compute.

In making my day, I saw her reading the defunct Daily Express, an English daily.

Some of us in high school then were really inferior to that old lady at some point if my observation was accurate.

Here in Vigan, there was a Fifth Year in High School but only in the seminary. I never bothered asking acquaintances the contents of the curriculum but I can only guess that further Spanish, Latin, Greek, basic Philosophy and social sciences were in the menu.

There is no question that Fifth Yeared seminarians (or seminarians in general) are smart. That has nothing to do with the additional year but on the strict seminary training and discipline.

So what if students are in school for 12 years before going to college?

Personally, that cannot guarantee academic excellence on the part of the student. What matter is the instructor and method of teaching.

My friend, a professor in one of the universities here in Ilocos told me that he uses a mixture of English, Tagalog and Ilocano to deliver his lectures. “Pure English  diminishes the students' capacity in comprehending the subject matter”.(sic) Well, local languages fully understood by the students are okay so long as they have no plans to leave the country to earn a living with their careers.

Instructor and modules are also part of the problem.

To say that  teachers in the country are mediocre is disrespectful but students with good grasp of the academic subjects are rare these days in the provinces. I am not saying that English is to be  patronized in the country but if we want to compete and interact globally, English is not only recommended but a must.

Many should be familiar that dailies say  once in a while that some books used in school have massive errors in grammar, dates, names, places and the like. Yet, to my understanding, schools continue to use these books. I am not sure if the government is working to correct the errors or if they have funds to do so.

If the government is really serious in upgrading the educational system, the starting point is the re-evaluation of the curricula, method of teaching and the training of instructors and teachers as well. If these are not reassessed, the quality of education continues to deteriorate at a faster rate. -30-

Yes We Can P-Noy!

Philippine President-elect Benigno “Noynoy” C Aquino III is about to be sworn in as the 15th president of the republic. Since his landslide victory, Filipinos hope that “P-Noy” (Pres. Noynoy Aquino) is capable in solving all the problems that beset the country or if not; at least the more imperative ones. Topping them is the endemic and massive graft and corruption, rampant violation of human rights, grinding poverty, criminality and the abuse or destruction of natural resources and environment.

Minus his pluses being born from a martyr-hero father, Ninoy and a former president mother, Cory, Noynoy is an ordinary mortal like us. He is not an incarnated god, a fairy or other make-believe characters that in a click of a finger, everything is possible. So, it is down to earth  not to have high expectations on him but rather  expectations that are doable.

There is no way that P-Noy can turn the present Philippines into a Shangri-la in six years.  To start his onerous burden, he has to turn on the engine of the government and traverse the filthy mine-laden road  his predecessor left.

Lao-tzu correctly observed that “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”.

Soon to be Pres. Noynoy Aquino metaphorically occupies a house with walls falling apart, holes on its roof. The carpet is cockroach, termite, flee and rat infested. Its air conditioning system chokes. Its water and gas lines are clogged. The foundation is ready to give way.

For sure, the house can be made over but it takes time to do the job;  probably, not even during his term.

Mrs. Arroyo, set to bear the curse of infamy, bequeathed Noynoy a country bleeding, gasping for life as brought about by the evil of political patronage, scandals, graft and corruption, violation of human rights and poverty. In fairness to Mrs. Arroyo, she was able to keep the economy afloat when world recession threatened the economy and has implemented infrastructure projects. Despite these, the citizens were not deterred in giving her a negative rating that goes for the books. Filipinos lost their trust and confidence in her at zero per cent but her worth as head of state became much worse when the people’s final approval  spiraled down to -33. Simply said, the Arroyo presidency is a failure!

Pretending to be civil, Mrs. Arroyo and her cohort  wish the incoming administration good luck and best wishes .  Such "courtesy" is more of a showmanship.  It is devoid of sincerity. Down to the twilight of her presidency, Arroyo did not have the decency in carrying midnight appointments. That may be legal but not without any personal nefarious motive. Could it be possible that at some point she feels guilty that there must be entities that can protect her from possible prosecution once she leaves office?

In 24 hours we will have a new president but it is unfortunate that  before sitting on his presidential  chair, he is already criticized.  A leftist group is set to welcome him with protest right from the vicinity of the Palace. How stupid is that?

We wait and see how Pres. Noynoy Aquino plays his role and do his function. He deserves to be given a fair chance before we  go to the streets and  cry foul to demand action.

Can Pres. Aquino do it?

Not alone as a one-man team.  Filipinos must support him and his administration so that he can transform the country into what we aspire her to be. He cannot do it alone. Yes, we can also do it in the Philippines only if there is sincerity among everybody in the government and in the private sector to join hands and move forward and not back. This we must do amidst the odds.

For too long  and too much we suffered from the hands of the greedy and nonchalant leaders who dehumanized us. We do not deserve this kind of life and government. We want the better. We are a rich nation of talents and natural resources but we are also a people of  apathy. We do not pay attention  and work  on what  our country deserves.  It took a Korean living in the country  in  pointing what is wrong with us:  "we don't love that much our country". Often times we are contented sitting at the corner expecting social graces and  blessings of political impetus instead of doing what we can no matter how mean or small to keep the country moving the right way.

Indeed, Pres. Aquino looks determined to make this country better.  We must not forget one basic fact that he is human, proned to err. Being the son of  Ninoy and Cory, it is unbelievable that he will soil their names and legacy.  Rather, he will work to etch his own image that he is the president Filipinos have waited for too long.   He has the potential to be a great president  on the condition  that he can fulfill his campaign promises  to at least  tolerable levels. True, things are easier said than done but the door of success is always  wide open.  If there is a will, there is a way.

The future has twists and turns but we hope for the best. In hoping for the best, stand up and be counted.  We work as a team and never as individuals for “united we stand; divided we fall”.  We do in unison the first step for the six-year journey.

Good luck to the Philippines, good luck to the Filipino people at home and in diaspora and good luck to Pres. Noynoy Aquino. -30-

Tribute to a Friend's Requiem

Vic Ruelos,  true and eternal friend

May you rest in peace in the arms of the Father

You left us too young

But

Thanks for the memories and fun

"[A]nd when he shall die, take him and cut him out in little stars, and he will make the face of heaven so fine that all the world will be in love with night and pay no worship to the garish sun."
      - Shakespeare on Romeo and Juliet

Philippines, Journalists’ Grave

The nine year presidency of Mrs. Arroyo saw 104 journalists murdered and altogether, 140 since the fall of the Marcos fascist dictatorship in 1986. In one day alone last year, a record of 32 journalists were viciously killed in the Maguindanao massacre.

That makes the Philippines one of  the most dangerous places on earth for journalists to practice their trade.

What is wrong with the press people mostly provincial radio anchors that they are the favorite of assassins?

Basically there’s none. They are just doing their job to inform or educate their listeners on the pressing issues in their locality that may be about corruption, illegal activities such as illegal gambling, smuggling, illegal logging and other criminal acts of elected officials, military personnel or ordinary citizens.

I said “basically” because from what I observed; sometimes, provincial radio anchors tend to overkill their expose by resulting to abusive and curt words the culprits don’t like to hear. Commentaries can be delivered in many ways but I don’t know why some commentators cannot modify their piece for a better-sounding delivery without altering the facts and their point.

There has been a proposal that journalists especially in the provincial broadcast industry should be re-trained. On what kind of training is that is not clear but I believe that it has something to do with ethics, code of journalism and other existing and applicable laws. Not all in the Philippine broadcast industry went to Broadcasting School to learn the art academically and thoroughly.  Instead, some learned to be in the industry through  sheer guts and instinct.

However, the broadcaster’s  on the air follies and misgivings should not serve as a ticket to the grave. The affronted has always an access to the courts and is free to file grievances against a radio personality  believed  to have broken broadcasting laws, ethics and other existing laws and let the wheel of justice roll.

So long as the lives of the press people are under constant threat, no one has the right to say that the Philippines has the freest press in Asia or say that there is freedom of the press and of expression in the country.

Let us see what the in-coming administration is capable of in stopping the senseless killing of media practitioners. -30-

Sex Education in the Philippines: A Personal Perspective

Sex education is currently the hot and widespread topic in the media, schools, offices, malls, cafeterias and in the Church. Per the government, pupils in the fifth grade, aged ten to 11 up to high school students, aged 15 to 16 will be taught on what sex is. I still have to see the “syllabus” of the course but the controversial move is believed to promote safe sex, limit the spread of STDs and prevent unwanted pregnancies.

The influential Catholic Church cries foul. Its hierarchy says that it is the duty of parents to educate their children about sex. The clergy further argues that sex education in school only promotes promiscuity.

It is not clear to me whether the government’s move sprung from its idea that overpopulation is one of the root causes of grinding poverty in the Philippines and hence, it must be put into a lower gear. (N.B.: I always assume perhaps with precision that the main roots of poverty in the country are graft and corruption and the unabated abuse and destruction of the environment and natural resources.)

From the rationale of the course, pupils and students learn human anatomy and their functions. I am not sure how teachers will do their job but I believe that there will be visuals of the male and female genitalia and illustration of bodily changes that occur in both sexes’ age of puberty. Birth control methods and paraphernalia and how to use them, STDs and their nature; how they are acquired, transmitted and prevented are also taught. Last but not least, our children will learn about sexual intercourse, pregnancy and responsible parenthood.

Is it possible to teach responsible parenthood to these kids who are “new” in this world and are supposed to be concentrating on their studies? In their puerile and pristine way of thinking, how do we expect them to be responsible in their actions especially when it comes to sex after reading its book? They are “young and restless” and too curious to try out the difficult to resist that appeal to the senses.

So next time Junior or Neneng comes home, parents should not be surprised to discover that they have assignments on subjects ranging from penis, vagina, menstruation, breasts, nipple, sperm, pubic hair, alteration of the voice pitch, ovulation, female egg, miscarriage, abortion, conception, labor, gestation and even masturbation.

What is interesting to know is the method in which the teachers discuss sex. Are they down to earth  in using unambiguous words, terms and phrases or they prefer to be more “decent”? I browsed that the use of English is to be the medium for the instruction. Well, what is wrong in using the first language of the pupil like Ilocano or Cebuano? Using another language to describe something does not change its meaning. Dog is dog whether it is said as “perro” (Spanish),  "canis” (Latin) or  “aso” (Ilocano). The last thing we don’t like to hear are the young ones talking explicitly about sex in a vulgar fashion in the native language.

As they grow and reach the age of reason, who can stop these sex literate youngsters in watching pornography, doing sex and  spreading their bad influence? Unwanted pregnancies or STDs can be avoided because of academic background but who can stop immorality and its spread? Who can stop the possible commission of sex crimes? Who can stop abortion? And yes, ironically, teen pregnancy? Early marriage? Early marital separation? Cohabitation? Illegitimate children? Curtailment or distraction of education because of early marriage or unwanted pregnancy?

We have to wait for a couple of years after the implementation of the course to know if the program attains its goals or will have helped tremendously in the propagation of the things it supposed to stop.

We will also know if the stand of the Catholic Church is correct or not. -30-

Dr. Jovito R Salonga, 90: A Tribute

This is my humble way of paying tribute to  a surviving  par excellence Filipino statesman with unparalleled achievement and integrity in Philippine politics. Coming from a poor family and weathering the odds, his ascension to the acme of success  in life and in politics has inspired countless of his countrymen to be positive achievers and productive citizens. Aside from his impressive curriculum vitae, the physically bomb-deformed Senator taught and shared the meaning of authentic forgiveness.  On the Plaza Miranda bombing, that almost caused his life, he piously stated that he has forgiven the mastermind(s) of that infamous incident that left him blind on one eye, totally deaf on one ear and the other, partially deaf. Dr. Salonga,  has served the Philippines with excellence,  dedication,  honesty and pride.

The following biographical index of the Magsaysay Awardee was lifted from the website of the Philippine Senate.

Reputed as “ The Nation’s Fiscalizer ",  Jovito Salonga’s distinguished record as Congressman for the 2nd District of Rizal later won for him the overwhelming mandate of the Filipino electorate as he consistently topped three Senatorial elections despite lack of material means and at against all odds – a record without precedent in Philippine political history, in addition to the remarkable fact that he was elected under three different administrations ( that of Macapagal, Marcos and Aquino ). Salonga was chosen as one of the most outstanding Senators with his significant legislations, some of which inspired public interest: the State Scholarship Law, the Disclosure of Interest Act, the Magna Carta for Public School Teachers, and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, and the Act Defining and Penalizing the Crime of Plunder.

Salonga has been fighting corruption and dictatorship since his youth. The son of a Presbyterian minister from Rizal province, he joined the resistance movement during the Japanese occupation, was captured, tortured and sentenced by a military court to years of hard labor.

Released in 1943, he topped the bar examinations the following year and made plans to attend Harvard for his master’s degree. He followed up his master’s at Harvard with a doctorate from Yale University, but turned down a faculty position there because he felt he should take part in post-war reconstruction in the Philippines.

Upon his return, he embarked on a career that quickly established him as one of the most brilliant lawyers in the country. He taught law at leading universities in Manila, and authored several tax texts that are used here and abroad.

When Martial Law was declared in 1972, he was one of its most outspoken opponents. He defended political prisoners who challenged the Marcos regime.

In October 1980, after the bombing of the Asian Society of Travel Agents’ conference at the PICC, Salonga was arrested along with several others and was detained without investigation and without charges.

After his release from military custody, he was offered a visiting scholarship at Yale, where he engaged in the revision of his book on International Law. He completed his book on the Marcos years and a program for a new democratic Philippines.

Salonga returned to the Philippines on January 21, 1985 and when the Aquino government took over after the People Power Revolution of February 1986, Salonga was named chairman of the Presidential Commission on Good Government, which was tasked with investigating and recovering the ill-gotten wealth of the members of the past regime.

With his selfless dedication to duty and his significant contributions to the country, Jovito Salonga continues to serve as brilliant inspiration to all Filipinos. He was Senate President from 1987-1991.

Former Chief Justice Artemio V. Panganiban in his column from the Philippine Daily Inquirer has this to say about Sen. Salonga:

Public service demands much sacrifice yet pays very little. It is not a place for the vacillating and the weak-hearted. Neither is it for the selfish and the self-righteous. New public servants can take some lessons from the life of Dr. Jovito R. Salonga who is celebrating his 90th birthday today. Upon being sworn in as a Cabinet member of Cory Aquino, he dissolved his famous law office. Though not required by law, he gave up his only source of income to set a new standard in ethical conduct.

Indeed, Doctor Salonga is the ideal public servant. He was a bar topnotcher (No. 1 in the 1944 bar exams), scholar (one of the few in the world to earn a masters in law at Harvard and a doctorate in jurisprudence at rival Yale), professor (in several law schools), educator (one of the youngest ever to be law dean), author (his books on evidence, corporation law and international law are the most authoritative on these subjects and his several biographic sketches are bestsellers), congressman (who single-handedly trumped two dynasties in Rizal province), senator and Senate president (with the distinction of being the only Filipino to top the Senate race three times), the best president the country never had (lost to Fidel V. Ramos in 1992). And he is the oldest living Filipino statesman and legend.

Having met him in 1956 when I was still a student and communing with him regularly up to the present, I know him to be all these. But I know him best as my lifetime guru—not just on the labyrinths of the law but more so on how to live a life worth living.

I will always remember his supreme teaching: While it is good to have the things that money can buy, like food on the table, clothing on our backs, medicine for our illnesses and even a car and a house for the family, we must never ever forget that it is far better to aspire for the things that money cannot buy like integrity, moral courage, character, honor, humility, dignity and an abiding faith in the love and mercy of God.

(Salonga continues to fight for good government and governance through the Kilosbayan which he founded.  His more detailed online biography can be read here. -Cor Invictus)

In Defense of Archbishop Oscar V Cruz

Finally, Bishop Socrates Villegas who prefers to be called “Fr. Soc” is Canonically installed as the fifth Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan replacing Archbishop Oscar V. Cruz, a stern and incessant critic of Mrs. Arroyo and her administration.

Archbishop Cruz is now an “emeritus” and no longer takes care of the Archdiocese but he is still a Filipino citizen whose rights as defined by the Fundamental Law of the land are the same as the rights of every Filipino. As a priest, he has to preach the Good News.

Most of the comments in the internet on the retirement of Cruz are negative if not disrespectful to his person and his clerical state.

What is wrong with the retired Archbishop?

He continues to condemn harshly the president and her government by fearlessly telling the truth which others are scared to say and refuse to hear. A fair-minded with a good grasp on the Philippine situation may agree with Cruz in most issues. The retired prelate is not trained in politics but trained to be a priest; that is, to show the people the path of salvation through evangelization. Whatever Cruz says or writes in his blog can be summed up to the teachings of the Decalogue, the greatest commandment which is “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” and the second commandment that urges “Love your neighbor as your love yourself.”

Is it fair to blame Cruz when he analyzes social and moral ills confronting the country and present his findings? He is not a civil lawyer but holds Licentiates (MA equivalent) in Philosophy and Theology and a Doctorate in Canon Law (Church Law). He is also a prolific writer and blogger.

Cruz’s critics say that he should concentrate to work for the salvation of his flock and not involve himself in politics.

Cruz is doing exactly that but he exercises his right of suffrage.

We just refuse to listen to him. In expanded and detailed form, he is simply re-echoing:

You shall not have other gods besides me. (Money, power and wealth are the gods of some Filipinos.)

You shall not carve idols for yourselves in the shape of anything in the sky above or on the earth below or in the waters beneath the earth. (Some of the idols of Filipinos are the corrupt, thugs and immoral.)

You shall not take the name of the Lord, your God, in vain. (Some Filipinos in office who are under oath to serve use that oath for their personal advancement.)

Remember to keep holy the Sabbath day. (Did I hear someone tell me that on Sundays many go to cockpit arenas? Have drinking sprees? Go to the sauna? Bet in jueteng? A time to do monkey business?)

Honor your father and your mother. (Are the young still respectful to their parents or are they saying that it is now 2009 and that their discipline is already a passé and one must be practical nowadays?)

You shall not kill. (Read the papers, watch the news on TV and listen to the radio.)

You shall not commit adultery. (Observe the neighborhood and read what’s going on in the lives of entertainers and some public officials.)

You shall not steal. (Do I have to say still how much is lost due to massive graft and corruption?)

You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. (Read what’s going on in courts.)

You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, nor his male or female slave, nor his ox or ass, nor anything else that belongs to him. (Graft and corruption aside, there are illegal mining and illegal logging, abuse of the environment and natural resources.)

As a priest, Archbishop Cruz points out what is moral that is necessary for our salvation. He attacks sin but not the sinner. If a sinner believes that s/he is under the sharp pen of the prelate or hears his deafening words of wisdom, s/he is given a chance to undergo conversion. S/he must do some soul-searching! If in the end, s/he is convinced that Cruz's crusade makes sense; why does he deserve vilification?

What if Archbishop Cruz were an ordinary citizen; say a talk show host who says what Cruz is exactly saying? Do we care to unjustly criticize and ostracize him? We might even say that he is absolutely correct for the simple reason that his bases are facts. Too bad, he is a priest and an archbishop, a teacher of morality and it is hard to listen to what he says for they hit the heart and soul without mercy.

In response to whether he did his job or not as the shepherd of his archdiocese during his tenure is for the people of Lingayen-Dagupan to answer ALONE. Not even the people of the adjacent Diocese of Urdaneta can answer that. How much more to the majority of Filipinos? For me personally, he did not only minister to his archdiocese but for the entire nation and the world as well because of his blog.

If Christ were a Filipino citizen and in the country I am sure that He does what Archbishop Cruz does in criticizing the government, the system and its leaders. Christ is the Truth while Cruz presents the truth.

Now that he is retired, he has more time to expose the truth that sets us free from the shackles of this corrupt and incompetent government.

From the infancy of Christianity up to the present, those who searched for the truth, told the truth and worked for the truth died a horrible death. Their persons were killed but not their message.

Veritas nos liberabit. Truth sets us free.-30-

Pray For The Suffering Philippines

A super typhoon Pepeng (Parma) hits the Philippines in 24 hours. It is packing maximum sustained winds of 195 kph (121 mph) with gusty winds of up to 230 kph (143 mph) and moving west northwest at 24 kph (15 mph). We are still struggling to recover from the aftermath of a deluge and a threat of another calamity is again hovering upon us. Let us pray together as one nation and one people that God spare us from further destruction.

To the visitors of this blog, please say a prayer for our country wherever you are --- Filipinos or citizens of the world. Our country is in destruction. We lack resources. We are in misery and we are at the total mercy of God and from people of goodwill around the world.

Include us in your prayers and may the good Lord bless you all in return!-30-

ORATIO IMPERATA
for
Deliverance of Calamities

Almighty Father, we raise our hearts to You in gratitude for the wonders of creation of which we are part, for Your providence in sustaining us in our needs, and for Your wisdom that guides the course of the universe.
We acknowledge our sins against You and the rest of creation.
We have not been good stewards of Nature.
We have confused Your command to subdue the earth.
The environment is made to suffer our wrongdoing, and now we reap the harvest of our abuse and indifference.
Global warming is upon us. Typhoons, floods, volcanic eruption, and other natural calamities occur in increasing number and intensity.
We turn to You, our loving Father, and beg forgiveness for our sins.
We ask that we, our loved ones and our hard earned possessions be spared from the threat of calamities, natural and man-made.
We beseech You to inspire us all to grow into responsible stewards of Your creation, and generous neighbors to those in need.
Amen.

Christine Reyes In A Change Of Heart: "Material Things Are Nothing, Have No Value"

Times are difficult. The country suffers destruction. We are helpless. We need help from the global community to start anew and rebuild our lives and communities from the ravages of a deluge.

Why did God allow this suffering to a people already agonizing in poverty, neglect, marginalization and debasement?

For sure, God has a message to the Filipino people embedded in Ondoy’s (Ketsana’s) great flood of 2009. Where did the water come from and why the inundation happen so fast? Is a six-hour non-stop heavy downpour done before? If yes, was there a flood? Why did the meteorologists fail to accurately give a forecast? I am incompetent in responding these scientific questions but as a man of faith I can simply say “God has a message to us.”

“In the eyes of God the earth was corrupt and full of lawlessness. When God saw how corrupt the earth had become, since all mortals led depraved lives on earth, he said to Noah: "I have decided to put an end to all mortals on earth; the earth is full of lawlessness because of them. So I will destroy them and all life on earth.” (Gen. 6:11-13)

God destroyed all life on earth except the chosen ones in Noah’s Ark because of corruption and lawlessness.

Two chapters later Moses wrote “When the Lord smelled the sweet odor, he said to himself: "Never again will I doom the earth because of man, . . . nor will I ever again strike down all living beings, as I have done.” (Gen.8:21)

We see the heart-rending devastation in wonder and fear. In effect, we realize our helplessness; reminded of our mortality and what properties and possessions are for.

We need God in our lives for without Him, we can do nothing. (John. 15:5) Sadly, how many of us live as if we do not need God anymore or as if God no longer exists?

The tri-media carry a lot of stories from victims claiming that prayers made them strong and determined to survive while others are thankful that despite losing everything such as house, clothing, appliances and other material possessions, they are alive and hopefully became closer to God and fellow humans.

Among these stories, I find Christine Reyes’ (a showbiz personality) words as very inspiring when she said:

“The experience was an eye-opener. I realized that material things are nothing; they have no value. You can lose them and replace them. Life is more precious. Once lost, wala na, hindi na maibabalik (it’s gone forever.) I used to be secretive and sensitive. After that nightmare on Sept. 26, my outlook in life has changed. I look at life differently now. Life is short, every moment is precious. Enjoy it to the fullest with your loved ones because you can never tell kung kelan ka mawawala (when your time is up)."

I hope that politicians and even ordinary mortals heard that.

To be rich, let me say, is not a sin if the wealth is earned justly and honestly. It is a reward to one’s hard work. Accumulated possessions produced otherwise, if we believe the wisdom of the old, lead us to the smooth path of damnation. Individuals who have unexplained wealth use their richness for all kinds of vice or crime. Some use it to rape or to deny the human dignity of a less fortunate fellow human being.

Life, the greatest gift of God is not only precious but sacred yet, how many times we read or hear stories which account the destruction of life through crime, abortion, euthanasia, illegal drugs, tobacco and alcohol?

Christine was remarkable when she said that “material things are nothing; they have no value.” From the human point of view, she is impractical but the truth in her words are in-between the lines and she means that “material things are not the panacea of life". They cannot guarantee one’s immunity from calamities or disease, happiness or satisfaction and yes, nothing can be brought to the next life that guarantees salvation. Christ warns “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:36) "For what is a man advantaged, if he gains the whole world, and loses himself, or be cast away?" (Luke 9:25)

When she said “enjoy it (life) to the fullest”, I believe that she did not contextually or totally mean mundane but a conscientious life lived to the fullest under the watchful eye of the Omnipotent. While at the rooftop waiting for a rescue, she was praying together with her pamankin (niece/nephew) and indeed the prayers were answered when they were brought to safety. Let no one underestimate the power of prayer!

If there is something spiritually enriching we learned from this disaster, it is an awareness that God is so powerful and we need Him. Life, precious and finite is in the hands of God. Wealth or possessions no matter how great or small can be lost very quickly.

The "rainbow" reminds us that God will never again strike all living beings but this should not be a reason for this country to remain corrupt and apathetic and for us to continue neglecting human dignity.-30-

Venancio Ancheta, Soldier; Muelmar Magallanes, 18: My Heroes

Sometimes, Filipinos have a twisted understanding on what a hero is. Skillful sports personalities reaping honors for the country are considered heroes although in the real sense, a hero is one who has exceptional courage and nobility to fight or work for what is right even at the cause of death.

I find Venancio Ancheta, a Private First Class of the Philippine Army and the unsung to have lived up by that definition.

When Ondoy’s flood that brought disaster to Manila was at its crest, Mr. Ancheta was able to rescue 20 souls before he was swept away by the raging floodwater. He lost his life but twenty others lived.

This blog condoles with the family of this courageous soldier and Muelmar Magallanes'. I understand the pain of losing a loved one, a son, a father, a husband, a brother or a boyfriend but they did not die in vain. They left a footprint larger than life inspiring or challenging us to do something good to others.

“There is no greater love than to give one’s life so that others may live.”

Venancio and Muelmar you are heroes; shining stars to us and shame on those who are capable to do more but prefer to be stingy in their wealth, resources, time and even power.

oOo

Muelmar Magallanes, an 18 years old construction worker and a gifted swimmer is another hero. He saved 30 people including a mother and her baby before he was lost in the murky water. Muelmar died at a very tender age but also lived a heroic and selfless life.

He could have been playing with his friends in the floodwater just like the other boys but he preferred to rescue those in danger relying on his skills and youth. He was a "one-man team" without equipment --- only his strength honed by his manual job. And yes, it is difficult to explain how a teenager probably with a small built was able to rescue 30 individuals. Make no mistake that Muelmar did it. The account of his heroism is a fact and not fiction!

My heart and prayers in these difficult times go to all of the victims of the catastrophe and for the entire nation. Venancio and Muelmar have a special place in my heart and my family for their heroism and selfless love for fellow humans in need.

Archbishop Oscar V. Cruz of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan composed a beautiful prayer in the aftermath of Ondoy's devastation. All we can do now is to pray for the dead, the heroes, victims, our nation and us alive and leave everything into the hands of God. Life must move on.

To the heroes, sung and unsung, receive your rewards personally from the hands of God!-30-

Ondoy (Ketsana) Shuts Manila Down

Nothing is more dramatic and heartbreaking than the footage and pictures from foreign sources in the internet on the unexpected flood that ravaged Manila.

The weather bureau was accurate in forecasting that tropical storm Ondoy hits the country but failed to say that a one-month rainfall would be dumped in just six hours. Unexpected as it was, thousands were stranded and displaced. Trapped by raging water after a day's work, some were not able to go home or chose to spend the night in their office because of the tracherous water in the submerged streets. Concern grew between families and loved ones when they were not able to contact one another and inform what situation they were in and their location when cell phones' battery died.

Crippled by Ondoy (Ketsana), the nation’s capital and some 23 provinces are declared as in the state of calamity. Ondoy's onslaught, worst in 40 years, paralyzed Manila which is reduced into a city of dirt and debris. The national toll of the calamity is yet to be known but heavy damage of properties is anticipated.

As a third world country, the Philippines lacks high-tech rescue equipments and highly skilled rescue teams that can operate in an all-weather situation. Filipinos, always instinctive to survive have to use available gears like ropes, improvised water vessel and whatever is thought that can be used to save the life of a loved one, a friend, a neighbor or a stranger.

When Ondoy submerged some Manila districts, the country was in the middle of political extravaganza, mud-slinging in the Senate and deadly conflict in Mindanao. Then rain came and spared no one even three storey mansions in gated communities. Rich and poor alike were struck. The streets usually clogged with pedestrians, commuters and vehicles virtually turned into a sea with strong current. Not withstanding the heavy downpour, some found rooftops as the only safe place. We saw how the children and women received help and we also saw footage where floating cars are swept in a courtyard bumping each other like toys. There was also a young man probably with a child fighting for dear life standing on floating dirt being rescued as they pass under a bridge.

In the aftermath, hundreds if not thousands are hungry, cold, thirsty and in need of temporary shelter, domestic needs and even financial help. On the move to do what they can to reach out the victims are some religious, civic and government groups. Regrettably, when help at the height of the disaster was needed, the government was nowhere to be found.

Filipinos known to coalesce in times of adversity have shown again that they can unite for a common cause. Whatever help they can give no matter how mean or small, as long as they can, they are a Good Samaritan in times of catastrophe or upheaval.

This is the kind of spirit we Filipinos are looking for: unity/teamwork. Many times, it is proven that we can do that. We can be together for a common cause and this we must now if we are willing to reinvent the political structures of the country and our disposition as Filipinos.

In a very limited capacity, ordinary Filipinos are willing to share what they can to help one another in this difficult time. Those in the government should do their part by shouldering the bigger slice of the pie. I believe that 98% of the members of the bicameral Congress are multi-millionaire if not billionaire. It is time for them and other mega-rich politicians and ordinary citizens as well to manifest their concern and love by sharing their wealth to their suffering fellow Filipinos.

We are grateful for the financial assistance of the United States, China, Japan and other magnanimous countries willing to pitch in; institutions and even individuals who are touched with the effects of the calamity in our midst. We need help. We cannot do it alone. Since we have a corrupt government, we hope against hope that all international and local aid will be funneled to the intended parties and never to be pocketed by the rascals and vultures in the government.

This unexpected flood is a warning that we must take care of our environment (forests) or else the environment will take care of us in full revenge. And yes, God can shake the country not in six hours but in six minutes or even less.-30-

"Kay sarap pala maging Filipino!" (Proud to be a Filipino)

- Jim Paredes
APO Hiking Society

Martial Law Was Declared Today in 1972

Thirty seven years ago today, the Republic of the Philippines we dearly love was put under Martial Law through Proclamation 1081. Once earned the sobriquet as the Oldest Democracy in Asia, with a single stroke of a pen, the country’s democratic institutions were mercilessly butchered by Ferdinand E. Marcos. On September 21, 1972, the seeds of political avarice, manipulation, persecution, human rights violation and looting of the government coffer were planted in the humus soil of cruelty and apathy.

These truths are immutable and cannot be changed. Veritas numquam perit --- truth never dies.

The victims of that unpopular regime are not forgotten. They may be totally silenced but their courage and what they stood for fighting a dictator remain fresh in our hearts.

Some were luckier. These were some Senators and journalists dumped into prison without charges and due process. Most of them survived witnessing the fall of the seemingly invincible dictatorship.

To all who were crushed but not defeated; to those who gave up their lives but unconquered, the survivors and all with indefatigable spirit fighting for democracy and freedom, the following poem by William Ernest Henley (1849-1903) is for you.

INVICTUS

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find me, unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate;
I am the captain of my soul.

"From the Philippines to the World"

Tomorrow, the Philippines commemorates the 37th anniversary of the imposition of Martial Law. It was one of the darkest eras of our history. We have been colonized by a number of foreign powers that imposed us their will wittingly or unwittingly through the use of force and domination.

Under Martial Law, the country was raped by a fellow Filipino.

I am attaching the lyrics of the "national anthem" of the People’s Power Revolution of '86 composed by Jim Paredes, of the Filipino pop group APO Hiking Society. Jim said that he penned the song in less than five minutes. While he was jotting down the lyrics, he was simultaneously writing the notes. He claims that he was inspired by the Spirit when he wrote it.

Today, "Handog ng Filipino sa Mundo" (From the Philippines to the World) is still popular --- its luster and message did not fade as it continues to inspire Filipinos in their quest for a better government. It dares the Filipino spirit to say NO to another unwanted regime. Its significance is ageless and is fitting to be played and contemplated upon on the eve of the declaration of Martial Law.-30-

HANDOG NG FILIPINO SA MUNDO

'Di na 'ko papayag mawala ka muli.

'Di na 'ko papayag na muli mabawi,
Ating kalayaan kay tagal natin mithi.
'Di na papayagang mabawi muli.

Magkakapit-bisig libo-libong tao.
Kay sarap palang maging Pilipino.
Sama-sama iisa ang adhikain.
Kelan man 'di na paalipin.

Refrain:

Handog ng Pilipino sa mundo,
Mapayapang paraang pagbabago.
Katotohanan, kalayaan, katarungan
Ay kayang makamit na walang dahas.
Basta't magkaisa tayong lahat.

Masdan ang nagaganap sa aming bayan.
Nagkasama ng mahirap at mayaman.
Kapit-bisig madre, pari, at sundalo.
Naging Langit itong bahagi ng mundo.

Huwag muling payagang umiral ang dilim.
Tinig ng bawat tao'y bigyan ng pansin.
Magkakapatid lahat sa Panginoon.
Ito'y lagi nating tatandaan.
(repeat refrain two times)

Coda:

Mapayapang paraang pagbabago.
Katotohanan, kalayaan, katarungan.
Ay kayang makamit na walang dahas.
Basta't magkaisa tayong lahat!

English free translation (Thanks to the blog owner.)

Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines' Hypocrisy

The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) through its head, Msgr. Gerardo Santos files for an exemption to one of the provisions of the Magna Carta on Women which bans the dismissal of unwed mothers from employment or school in any Catholic educational institution of the country. The new law entitles unwed mothers who are dismissed or expelled under such circumstances to file a civil case and sue for damages while government officials who dismiss them can be sanctioned under administrative and civil service laws.

Emmanuel Angeles, chair of the Commission on Higher Education is willing to support the CEAP’s request saying that “It is important that we respect the religious affiliation of these institutions, the schools or company the persons (concerned) belong to.”

Why should one request that an entity should be exempted from a law? Laws enacted by the Philippine Senate are for all Filipinos in spite of any ethno-linguistic, religious and sexual orientation.

I do understand the CEAP’s side but its action is a bad precedent. If their filing for exemption is successful, (which could reach the Supreme Court) who could stop other entities to file for exclusion from provisions of any law that they deem inconsistent with their values or what they stand for?

Some of the Catholic virtues are compassion, mercy and forgiveness. In John 8:1-11, Jesus said to a woman caught in adultery “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.” When Cardinal Sin, I remember, was pressed to comment on Kris Aquino’s out of wedlock pregnancy, the good Cardinal did not condemn Kris but emulated what Christ did to the woman who sinned.

Everybody makes mistakes and there are a lot of opportunities for erring souls to right their wrongs via total conversion; forget and amend their past, move on and live a new responsible life. Mary Magdalene was once a prostitute. St. Paul was a chief Christian persecutor. St. Augustine had a rough past before he said, “Our soul is restless until they rest in Thee.” Bingbong Crisologo had also a violent past but now a head servant of the Loved Flock Charismatic Community.

These are just a few who came back from the ashes of sinfulness.

If Mary, the Mother of Jesus was a student in a Catholic school here in the country she would be expelled and be deprived from her right of education or would be hard up with Joseph, a carpenter raising the Redeemer if she was dismissed from employment. Mary was unwed mother.

And what if one is pregnant because she is a victim of rape, incest or other crimes?

She would be kicked out from her employment or studies in a Catholic institution; be deprived from her right to be educated and have a stable life.

What if an employee or student in a Catholic school, a victim of violence or crime, although against her conscience to abort the beating heart in her womb opt to kill the unborn baby as the only way for her to finish her studies or have a paycheck to live a dignified life? If a woman in this situation tells the school that she aborts her baby as the only solution for her to remain in school, I am not aware of any Philippine law that would kick her out from that (Catholic) school. Should that be done, do Catholics prefer to accept a woman who aborts her pregnancy or a mother out of wedlock --- a victim of circumstance?

Why should these unwed mothers be punished from a crime they are not totally responsible of and why can't the CEAP do what it preaches like LOVE, the central message of the Gospel?

The CEAP should reconsider its stand on this issue and shed off its hypocrisy by revisiting the Gospel which is replete of stories of compassion, love and mercy. After all, all of us are sinners who could be saints.-30-

Archbp Soc Villegas: Ad Multos Annos

Congratulations to the new archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan in the person of His Excellency Socrates “Soc” Villegas. Fondly known as Bishop Soc (Now Archbishop Soc), he is the youngest to hold the title in the country. He was the secretary of the late Jaime Cardinal Sin who played a pivotal role in the downfall of the dictatorship. The Cardinal, it is remembered, appealed to the people at Radio Veritas in February 1986 to go out to the streets and support Sec. Juan Ponce Enrile and Gen. Fidel Ramos. That was the start of the famous Filipino People’s Power Revolution or EDSA-1.

Pope Benedict XVI appointed Archbishop Villegas to replace Archbishop Oscar V. Cruz, a stern critic of the Arroyo regime, who retired recently.

Archbishop Soc is a great loss of the Diocese of Balanga and the whole of Bataan but a great gift to the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan.

Ad multos annos et fiat.-30-