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-

We Remember --- Let Peace Shine

We remember the 9-11 victims of the terrorist attack on the American soil in 2001. May the victims rest in eternal peace and may their loved ones left behind find peace and consolation.

May all people of every language, creed, race and of goodwill from all nations of the earth work for peace and brotherhood so that we may live as one.

Let us give peace a chance.

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.

(Francis of Assisi)

Noynoy C. Aquino Decides to Run

Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” C. Aquino, III has spoken. He is one of the protagonists of the presidential race in May next year representing the Liberal Party.

It should be made clear that “Noynoy” never intended to run for a higher office. He preferred to be in the Philippine Senate to continue his term so as not to displease the people who elected him.

The death of her mother, an icon of democracy, dramatically changed the political atmosphere. Thought as fading if not a thing of the past, the luster of the spirit of the People’s Power Revolution in 1986 flashed anew when a grateful nation bid farewell to Cory Aquino who succumbed to cancer. In letting her go, just like in EDSA 86, the people in yellow flashing the Laban (fight) sign renewed the camaraderie and brotherhood forged during those critical days in February 86. Once more, they believe, it is imperative that there must be unity and even sacrifice to offer to free again the suffering country and its people from the shackles of a bad government.

Those who were not yet born or too young to remember the saga of Cory joined her funeral as well despite the inclement weather for they believe what yellow and “L” stand for --- fight for good government and good governance.

In death, Cory seems to have united again the Filipinos to rediscover if not to reinvent their future. Cause-oriented groups and individuals have pushed Noynoy to run for president, a position he did not desire. Deafened by calls, Noynoy took a retreat for discernment while Sen. Mar Roxas gave up his presidential ambition and supported his friend Sen. Aquino.

Even before he made known today his decision to run for the highest office in response to the call of the citizenry for him to run, many wanted to know if Sen. Aquino is capable to perform the duties of a president.

I believe he can do it.

Noynoy can afford to have a phalanx of advisers and political confidants in running a government that espouses the rule of law and decency. As president, he can apply the break to slow down the massive and endemic graft and corruption plaguing the country. He will not be the best president but it is inconceivable to assume that he will be a corrupt or corruptible president. He is not a fool to tarnish the legacy of his parents who gave too much for this country. I do not see Noynoy as a man to turn his back and totally put into ashes the sacrifice and the good name Ninoy and Cory bequeathed.

Whoever the next president is, s/he must restore the people’s trust in the new government by prosecuting those who broke the law while in office or out. The new president must work extra hard to do house cleaning and sanitizing to show the world that from the rubbles, the Philippines have to move on and start anew. Hopefully, we can win back the respect of the international community they gave us when Mrs. Aquino was president.

To my belief, only Noynoy Aquino can make this country better as president. I do not campaign for him. First, he has yet to divulge his program of government to be studied but character-wise, I hope he is a good president.

This is my initial opinion. Let us see what comes next.-30-

Happy Birthday

It is your Birthday today and how I wished that you would be around physically so that I can see and touch you. But it does not matter. I can feel your presence, love, protection and care.

Through all these years I thank you for all the motherly love you showered me. Thank you for your intercessions.

Thank you. I felt your spiritual presence and your Son’s when one day I went to a cathedral and demanded an answer why my Mom and my Aunt died a brutal death. In my deep agony of grief, when my head started to “swell” and my body turned numb, I saw myself kneeling before your Son as he put his arms around me embracing me tightly patting my back telling me with a smile “Everything will be all right.” You were around smiling saying “They are with us.”

I almost lost my faith because of their death. Again, you were there strengthening and shepherding me.

I do not feel lonely and isolated for you are always here. Trusting in your Son through your unfailing intercession, “I fear no evil even in the shadow of death . . . the Lord is my Shepherd.”

Despite my unworthiness, in difficult times, I feel your presence and when things are not good, I come to you for ask for your help, affection and love.

Mom, please take care of the Philippines whom you love. Intercede for your suffering Filipino children. Intercede for peace in the world so that we may live truly as brothers and sisters in one planet.

Thank you for saying “fiat mihi secundum verbum tuum”. Had you said “NO”, Christ could have not been born and there would be no salvation. I continue to entrust my everything to you.

Let me reprint here what you said when you accepted the invitation of the angel to be the Mother of God and ours.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
My Spirit rejoices in God my Savior
For He has looked with favor on His lowly servant.

From this day all generations will call me blessed:
The Almighty has done great things for me,
And holy is His Name.

He has mercy on those who fear Him
In every generation.

He has shown the strength of His arm,
He has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
And has lifted up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things,
And the rich He has sent away empty.

He has come to the help of His servant Israel
For He has remembered His promise of mercy,
The promise He made to our fathers,
To Abraham and his children for ever.

Christmas Starts In September

There is no other country that I know that celebrates Christmas the longest except this country. As September comes, the first “ber” month, temperature starts to plummet and a number of radio stations introduce carols in the air.

This is the official start of Christmas in the Philippines and ends on the Feast of Epiphany the following year.

Yuletide carols, the first sign of Christmas spirit permeating the airwaves serve as a reminder for families to prepare for Christmas 10 weeks away. Although this is a Third World country, it is customary that there is food on the table on Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) no matter how simple and humble for a family to share. Exchanging of gifts is common in the upper class while giving something no matter how modest like a pair of shoes, a toy, a pair of pants, a t-shirt or anything new to one another in the family if afforded is done by most. The value of the gift does not matter but the sincerity and love of the giver. For the unfortunate who cannot afford material celebration or refuse to observe a “commercialized Christmas”, they prefer to practice the happiest season of the year by following their religious disciplines.

As December 25 draws closer, the surrounding metamorphoses into a city of toys, lanterns, other Christmas symbols; imported fruits, commodities and anything Yuletide. People get busier in setting parties and spending for Christmas day.

Behind this blissful setting, the true meaning of Christmas, a religious observance in origin, dissolves.

No one can gainsay that Christmas is too much commercialized now. If that is true in other countries why must the Philippines follow the course when its culture is deeply rooted in Christianity?

. . . A wife from a village a week before Christmas went to the sparkling city to buy a replacement of a broken baby Jesus figurine for her Nativity scene (Belen). There she saw people come and go spending heavily in festive mood. From store to store she went asking if they carry a statue of baby Jesus she could put in her “Belen”.

She was not able to find one.

Back in the house, he told her husband that she was not able to buy a replacement but bought a super glue instead hinting that the pieces be put together. The husband meticulously and patiently glued together the pieces of the broken figurine. When done, their youngest daughter said, “Dad, the baby Jesus is very beautiful although the cracks are visible . . . "

The story is simple but its meaning is enough to melt a hardened and callous heart like Mary Magdalene's and Saul's.

These days, Jesus is difficult or even impossible to be found in our midst. If found, we see how he is disfigured because of our lukewarm faith and love in him or even our willful refusal to love him by not loving our neighbors in need as a start. We cannot recognize him because our vision is impaired with the dust of materialism and greed. How disappointed is one who comes to give the greatest gift but only to find out that we are busy adorning our "golden calf".

Christmas is a time of hope, peace and love. May the lengthy observance of Christmas in the Philippines urge us to rediscover our faith and celebrate Christ’s birth as it must be --- spiritually.

Maligayang Pasko (Merry Christmas) to one all from us here in the Philippines!-30-

"Tito, I'm Getting Married"

Agnes* was barely 17 years old when she tied the knot with Jim, her school sweetheart in California. One should not be mistaken to believe that Agnes (Ness) is physically infantile. She can match or rather be more blessed in figure than any of the sophomore showbiz icons in the country.

June (her Dad) was my classmate and twice a year when they come home, he always asks me to go to their house and cook my recipes and share a drink with him. His wife, a nurse on a managerial level is more avid in picture and video-taking. She always brings with her one of the currently best SLR digital cameras, a semi professional video camera and lighting equipments. The family knows that I learned photography and film-making but I primarily use the craft as a hobby and occasionally as a sideline. So after cooking before I turn tipsy, Ness’s Mom usually asks me to take their pictures, some in portraiture or a random family video.

After finishing elementary from one of the finest exclusive schools, Ness left for the US at the age of 12. While her Mom was away, she was under the care of her Dad and paternal grandparents.

Agnes is like a daughter to me. When June could not bring her to school or pick her up, he asks me to do it. Before they left for the States, June or I can go to each other’s house at will to play chess, the guitar; discuss pressing political issues or simply to hang around with old friends and relatives.

Whenever she has time, Agnes e-mails me twice a week. It is interesting to read how she describes living in her new country and the cultural differences she has to overcome.

When she was 16 and some months, she wrote me that she already had an American boyfriend with 100% Filipino ancestry and fluent in Tagalog. In my generation, to have a boy/girlfriend at that age elicits bad-mouthing and sharp eyes of parents if not spanking. I asked if June and Judy know it. “Yes, Tito (endearment address) they know. In fact, I already introduced Jim to them.”

“What was their reaction and what did they say?” I asked curiously.

“They were cool but they pointed us out to study first, respect one another and ‘know the consequences’ of our actions if we go over the limit which they warned, we don't have to do. Jim has also introduced me to his family."

When June called and greeted my daughter on her birthday, he repeated what Ness told me about her relationship with Jim. After talking with him at length, I reminded June that entering into a relationship sometimes serves as an inspiration that could work wonders. He agreed.

On her 17th birthday, it was a surprise of all surprises when Ness informed me that she is getting married in June of that same year. “I’m getting Married, Tito.”

“How can you do that when you are very young and still going to school? “

“Tito, I explained everything to Mom and Dad and they understand where I’m standing at. I said that after marriage, Jim and I can look for a job and hopefully, we can find our own place.”

“And your explanation was . . . ?”

“I was in tears when I honestly told them that Jim and I could no longer hold ourselves in not having sex. I told Mom and Dad that I know that I am very young and did not finish school but we will look for a job to support ourselves. Also, I told them the possibility of having a baby at a very young age but hopefully they understand that it is better to marry at a tender age instead of having pre-marital sex or pregnancy outside marriage.”

I got Agnes’s moral value but it was hard for me to understand June and Judy’s disposition in giving away their only child to the man she loves.

Not long after her confession to me, June told me that Judy will send my roundtrip ticket to San Francisco and back for the wedding and requested me to be the official photographer.

Jim and Agnes married with the bride's parental consent.

The rest is a history.

Today, Agnes and Jim have a beautiful daughter and they are working in New York City where they have their close relatives. Their in-laws gave them lavish help although they work hard for their family and future. I understand that Agnes’s and Jim’s parents agreed to share and purchase a new house and dole cash as gifts for their children. The rent of that house in California augments the income of the young couple and their going back to school.

Defiant or call it courageous, Agnes wrote me recently that she has no regrets and that she and Jim are very thankful to their parents and in-laws for all their support and love. She admitted though that life is difficult but they chose it so and that they must stand on it and move on.

As a final thought, Agnes is absolutely correct that sex has no place outside marriage from the point of view of the Catholic faith but I am very sorry that the little child who practically grew up with me is now a wife and a mother at a very tender age. Her main point in marrying commands respect. She was just 16 when she made that decision in a culture where it is totally different from ours.

Luckily, they are in the richest nation where the American dream is always possible to achieve.-30-
_______________

*All names are changed

Heroes Come and Go - The Battle Is Now Ours

National Heroes Day is celebrated on the last Monday of August. It is actually a commemoration of the Cry of Pugad Lawin wherein Andres Bonifacio, head of the Katipunan, an underground revolutionary movement, challenged his subordinates to start an armed revolution against Spain by tearing their cedulas (tax and identification certificate) as a token of rebellion.

I cannot help but turn emotional imagining the events at that time. It was the epitome of centuries of subjugation, oppression, brutality and pillaging of our natural resources. For the Katipuneros, (members of Katipunan) it was a now-or-never situation. They knew the consequences such as heavy casualty on their side and the uncertain future of the revolutionary movement or even a humiliating defeat. Imbued with a deep sense of patriotism, they never looked back and went to the battlefield.

The Spaniards were superior in arms compared with the Filipinos’ ancient weapons of spears and bolos. Yet, Filipinos were determined to fight and end centuries of colonial rule as their golden gift to future generations. They gave their lives and bequeathed us the liberty they failed to enjoy. Sadly, we today have the boyish attitude to take for granted the hardship and sacrifice our ancestors endured and gave when we are more allured to do wrong than good for the welfare of this country and its citizens.

We remember the big names from our history books those who opted to fight instead of remaining nonchalant. These are the men and women during the Spanish regime, Japanese and American Occupations and yes, the gallant and courageous Filipinos who did the impossible-sounding job of dismantling a fascist dictatorship that swept the land. Included here were the intellectuals and student leaders who were never seen again. If seen alive or dead, they were barely recognized even by their loved ones as a result of sadistic torture. Desecrated bodies bore signs of Nazi-style execution and torment --- slow and painful death. For the lucky ones they are happy to be around although some are physically or mentally incapacitated --- a painful remembrance of the brutality of the dictatorship.

We remember all those who did their share, no matter how pivotal or humble including the nameless and faceless Filipinos for the winning of the freedom and liberty we today enjoy.

With deep regrets, the fragility of these institutions remains constant. The Sword of Damocles is always out from its scabbard threatening the hard-earned freedom, democracy and liberty we enjoy because of selfishness and personal interests. We blame ourselves for this because of our habitual indifference in choosing to elect leaders whom we can “enslave” to care for our needs and help us get closer to the universal aspiration of prosperity and peace.

Once more, in less than 10 months, we are given a chance to select our leaders. Good luck to us and good luck to the candidates but we must remember the saying of a sage:

“Freedom is not free. It must be worked for. Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.”

Heroes and heroines come and go. Now is the time for us to carry the torch of bravery and patriotism they carried and be ready to hand down the same responsibility to the younger generation when our time is up.

For the heroes and heroines who gave their lives, rest in peace and continue to pray for our country. For those who are alive, we have still a lot of work to do. The battle is now ours and so with victory! Above all, “Maraming, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat.” (Thank you very very much.)-30-

Ninoy, What A Sacrifice You Gave!

The entire Filipino nation remembers the unmatched heroism of Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr. who gave us his life. He came from the United States not as an enemy of the Marcos dictatorship but to seek peaceful solution in freeing the Filipinos from the shackles of a brutal regime. He was not able to step on the Philippine soil alive. He was gunned down despite the presence of hundreds of security personnel at the Manila International Airport.

Ninoy was blessed to have come from a well to do family. When he was locked up after the declaration of Martial Law, he could have just hanged up his political gloves, enjoyed his family and the blessings of his material wealth.

He did not. He continued to fight an iron-fisted regime determined to do anything to remain in power and continue its atrocities against its people.

When he remained in the States after his heart by-pass operation, he could have easily sought political asylum there.

He refused. He was determined to come home whatever the cost to spearhead the emancipation of Filipinos from an unwanted regime.

He came back. He was murdered.

Ninoy triumphed in death for it was the birth of the soon famous Filipino People’s Power Revolution that sent the dictator away in haste. (When Mr. Marcos left, they found hot food on the table.)

Ninoy said in Los Angeles, “Believe me Mr. President; I will dedicate the last drop of my blood in fighting your dictatorship!”

True, he did.

Heroes are not born. They are made and carved out from one’s deep love of his homeland and people.

The Philippines is forever grateful and indebted for Ninoy’s heroism. We cannot ask for more from him and from his wife Cory who restored our cherished democracy and freedom. It is for us now to take care the freedom and democracy restored out from blood, sweat and tears.

This is my small way of saying “Maraming salamat Ninoy at Cory.” (Thank you very much Ninoy and Cory.) May we learn from both of you the meaning of patriotism and may we have the courage to love the Philippines as you did no matter how insignificant or low our contributions could be.-30-

Tridentine Mass, I Missed It

The faithful, after Vatican II, had to learn participating religiously with the new form of the Mass said in the vernacular. From organ-only musical instrument allowed or recommended for Church services, guitar (acoustic or electric), flute, clarinet, piano and even drums now give accompaniment to vernacular songs.

However, the Catholic Church did not prohibit the saying of the Mass in its official language, Latin. Vatican II as an ecclesia semper reformanda (The Church eternally reforms and adapts.) brought the Church closer to the believers by adapting herself with the era. One of these is the use of a language the faithful understands.

I remember the years when as a boy, I used to serve Mass in Latin. I must admit that I memorized the responses sans understanding what they mean until I found an Ordo Missae with English translations.

I missed the Latin Mass because of its "solemnity" and "uniformity". By "solemnity", I mean that the faithful show reverence to the proceedings. In those years, people go to Church with modest clothing plus a veil for women. I remember that on Saturday afternoons, I used to wash and iron my attire for the Sunday Mass.

In "uniformity" I mean the actions of the priest and the faithful from the first sign of the cross to the final blessing were exactly the same not only in our archdiocese and in the Philippines but throughout the world.

These days, the word solemn has lost some of its grace. It bothers me to see people in the Church talking uselessly, exchanging hellos, kisses and showing other distractions. Sometimes during summer or at their convenience we see both sexes during liturgical services in shorts or in short shorts. Ladies wear spaghetti-strapped shirts, some body fit; others in low neckline showing their cleavage, bra outline or the strap. Said otherwise, the attire is improper and irreverent inside a house of worship. It’s not that one should wear signature clothes in the Church. They must be modest, neat and fit the nature of the place.

The priest now can say anything not included in the Lectionary. He can also change the words of the Eucharistic Prayers or add something. He can ad lib if he wants to. The faithful now imitate some of the gestures of the priest while offering the Mass. Songs such as the pop My Sweet Lord, Let It Be, Morning Has Broken and Today to name a few are now sung in the Church instead of those lovely Gregorian Chants. I am not saying that the pop genre has no place in the Church but if I remember it right, the last Vatican Council defines what songs are to be sung during the liturgy.

Vatican II introduced lectern instead of the pulpit for delivering the homily, today, the priest can go anywhere in the Church to deliver a sermon or homily sometimes without merit. While offering the Mass, some priests act as if they are appearing before a movie camera that they have to pose and act.

For some Catholic Traditionalists, they claim that a lot are leaving the Catholic Church because of the Mass which is no longer said in Latin. Personally, I see no scientific basis for that claim. A true believer and member of a particular faith must be obedient and respectful to his/her Church. In the case of Vatican II which has caused a lot of stir and controversies to some, it was promulgated by the Blessed Pope John XXIII and culminated by Pope Paul VI. As the Supreme Pontiff, the Pope as a successor of Peter has the authority in convening the Council.

Whether the Mass is in Latin or in any language, believers must show respect and reverence when going to Church especially when participating in a Mass. It is a Catholic belief that Christ is in-fact physically and spiritually present during Mass. Although Latin and vernacular Masses have the same substance, the former, personally, is more solemn.

How I wish that the solemnities I witnessed and experienced during Mass and other Church services before Vatican II will also be experienced by the present generation ad maiorem Dei gloriam.-30-

Writing on the Wall For Pres. Arroyo

Before the recent presidential visit of Philippines’ Gloria Arroyo to Washington DC --- hopefully her last as head of state, I expected it to be extensively covered by the foreign press. I was wrong. Here at home, there were crumbs of news about the visit but gradually eclipsed by the death of Tita Cory. Had there been comprehensive media coverage, the people’s interest would have been swerved to the wake of Cory anyway. We lost interest in our president who is indifferent with our pressing needs and of the government.

Mrs. Arroyo’s and company’s fantastic and unbelievable dinners at $15,000 in Bobby Van’s Steakhouse in DC and the $20,000 in Manhattan at Le Cirque have become more popular than the purpose of the trip.

The comparison is that a father eating steak and lobster while his children eat salted smelt. This dad has no conscience watching his kids punished with crumbs while he feasts. This allegory represents the president and other government dads and most of us desperately living to make both ends meet and in some cases, literally agonizing in unbelievable poverty --- unbelievable as to the food they greedily feasted on.

It is recalled that prior to Mrs. Arroyo’s US departure, US Defense Sec. Robert Gates and US top spy Leon Panetta did lighting visits in the country prompting us to think what really their intents were. Sec. Gates was here after North Korea tested its latest nuclear weapon. The press said in précis that Sec. Gates urged the Philippines to be vigilant and determined to fight internal and external terrorism threat. Also; the country and neighbors in the Pacific ream were urged to be cohesive in denouncing North Korea’s military adventurism in the region.

I don’t have any information that in the past the Philippines was visited by a CIA Director. If one or two came, the visit was under wraps unlike the trip of Mr. Panetta heralded by the press. Rumors claim that after meeting the press, Mrs. Arroyo and Mr. Panetta had a closed door one on one talk. Your guess is as good as mine on the range of private issues they discussed. The press said that Mrs. Arroyo briefed security issues to Sec. Gates and Director Panetta. Nothing is new on what she told them for the simple reason that the US through the CIA knows exactly what is going on in this country. What the US knows about the internal affairs of the country is even more accurate than Mrs. Arroyo’s.

The visit of the two prompted Sen. Rodolfo Biazon to infer that Mrs. Arroyo was summoned by Pres. Obama to the Oval Office. I disagree with the senator for his claim is not supported by evidence. He could have just been out from bed when he said that.

As an observer, I believe (perhaps in total error) that the United States warned Mrs. Arroyo not to manipulate the Constitution like Marcos so that she can remain in power aka Prime Minister; May elections must be pushed through and she must not impose Martial Law.

Puzzling bombings in Mindanao cities and even in the capital region were detonated before Mr. Panetta came. Mrs. Arroyo was quoted telling the CIA Chief not to worry about the explosions in the country.

How stupid is that?

It is recalled that Marcos through his evil genius sent men in uniform to terrify the people by throwing bombs in Manila streets which he later claimed to be perpetuated by the Communist a means for him to declare Martial Law.

Is history on the repeat now?

Right now, the nuclear powered carrier USS George Washington is here on a “goodwill” tour. Is the purpose of the visit really as such or otherwise? Have anyone heard about Oplan August Moon? This is described as a "self coup" plot that aims to install members of the Philippine Military Academy Class 1978 and other PMAers in key positions as part of a scheme to keep the President in power beyond 2010. (Mrs. Arroyo is an honorary member of PMA Class ’78.) Rumors say that this self coup would take place on the first week of August, the exact time when the US carrier is here. Did the US know before hand about Oplan August Moon? The carrier, one of the most advanced in the US arsenal is on standby within the Philippine territory for any eventuality to restore democracy and the rule of law if necessary. It is difficult to believe but it is true that one, just one F-16 can put the Philippine Army to its knees in a matter of an hour or less.

The probable explanation of this American “intervention” is to safeguard its national interests in the country and for Mrs. Arroyo to uphold the rule of law and decency. The United States learned its lesson when it gave its total support to Marcos, turned dictator. He oppressed his people by slaying democracy, obliterating human rights and ransacking its coffers. With scandals and stories of corruption that involve the First Gentlemen and the cohorts; exacerbated by stories of rampant graft in the government the United States is not on the side of Mrs. Arroyo.

Not to be forgotten is the EDSA-1 spirit profusely revived by the death of Cory Aquino, the icon of democracy and yes, decency. At this time and hopefully till the polls in May and beyond, Filipinos are fired up with the spirit of patriotism that if needed, they are ready to go to the streets again and peacefully say NO to another president who wants to be in power longer than necessary. We learned that democracy and freedom are not free. We must be eternally vigilant to keep their cauldron shining brightly.

And this is another warning to Mrs. Arroyo although it is not new: “You can fool some of the people some times but you cannot fool all the people all the time.”-30-