LUGI KA KAY PACMAN

Laban na naman ni Pacquiao. Halos lahat ng mga Pilipino ay hihinto na naman ang mundo sumandali para abangan ang kanilang idolo. Bayani kung ituring sa Pinas si Pacquiao. "People's Champ" pa nga ang bansag sa kanya. Pero kung maglalaan ka ng panahon upang magkaroon ng isang malalimang pag-iisip, bayani nga ba siyang talaga? Ano ba ang malaking ambag niya sa bansang Pilipinas? Ano ang direktang kaugnayan nating mga Pilipino sa bawat karangalang nakukuha niya? Ano'ng nagbabago sa buhay natin sa bawat suntok na binibitiwan niya? Gaano ba katotoo ang awit niya na "Lalaban ako para sa Pilipino"?

Para sa akin, malaki ang lugi ng Pilipinas at bawat Pilipino kay Ginoong Manny Pacquiao. Walang masamang tinapay sa isa sa pinakamagaling na boksingero sa kasalukuyang henerasyon. Mabuti siyang tao at kitang kita ang kanyang determinasyon sa bawat laban niya. Ang hindi ko lang gusto ay kung paanong patuloy na ginagamit ang bawat Pilipino upang mas lalo siyang sumikat sa larangang pinasukan niya. Inuuto ang mga Pinoy sa madaling salita. 

Hindi ko maintindihan ang bukambibig niya at ng mga taong nakapaligid sa kanya na para sa bawat Pinoy ang bawat laban niya. Paanong mangyayari ito? Unang-una, wala naman siyang medalyang iniuuwi sa bansa. Ang bawat boxing belt na sinusuot niya pagkatapos ng kanyang pagkapanalo ay hindi naman dagdag sa karangalan ng Pilipinas. Hindi ito makadaragdag sa ranking natin sa Olympics, sa Asian Games, o kahit ano pa mang international sporting games. Ang belt niya ay kanya lang.

Pangalawa, sa bawat pag-akyat niya sa boxing ring, hindi lumalaban si Ginoong Pacquiao para sa mga Pilipino. Hindi ako naniniwala sa lyrics ng awit niya. Hindi para sa akin, hindi para sa'yo, at hindi para sa bawat Pilipino ang laban niya. Para kanino? E 'di para sa sa sarili niya, sa promoter niya, at sa may-ari ng MGM place. Ano na ba ang napuntahan ng bawat perang kinita niya sa bawat pagkapanalo niya? Nabalatuhan ba niya lahat ng Pilipinong sumubaybay sa kanya? May hati ka bang natanggap sa perang kinita niya? E ang mga taga Gensan at Saranggani na pinanggalingan niya at ngayon ay pinaglilingkuran niya bilang Congressman, umangat na ba ang mga buhay? Siguro kung may natulungan siya, mangilan ngilan lang. E paano ang karamihan? Siguro kung may naipundar siya, baka 'yung mamahaling mansyon niya sa America at mga branded bags na binili niya para sa kanyang nanay at asawa. 

Speaking of Congressman, pulitiko na pala si Ginoong Pacquiao. Tumakbo noong nakaraang eleksyon at ngayon ay nakaupo na bilang kinatawan ng probinsiya ng Sarangani. Ito ang ikatlong pagkalugi natin sa kagalang-galang na Congressman. Ano na ba ang batas na naiakda ng butihing pulitikong ito matapos niyang maupo sa Kongreso? Kumusta na ba ang ekonomiya ng probinsiyang pinaglilingkuran niya? Dumami na ba ang trabaho ng mga tao doon? Ilang paaralan, ospital, at mga tanggapang pampahalaan ang kanya nang naipatayo at naipaayos? Boksingerong naging kongresista. Baka sa susunod nasa Senado na siya o 'di kaya sa loob ng Malacanang? Kapag nangyari ito, pinatutunayan lamang natin na kulang pa sa pag-iisip ang mga botanteng Pilipino. Boksingero kung boksingero. Hayaan na lamang sa iba ang ibang posisyon at propesyon sa lipunan. 

Panghuli, lugi ang Pinoy kay Pacman dahil lagi na lamang tayong inuuto at niloloko. Pansinin n'yo, sa sobrang kagustuhan ng iba na maunang malaman ang mga huling pangyayari, tatawag sa kanilang cable provider upang magsubscribe sa pay-per-view. Instant Php 2,500 agad ang naipakawala. Ang mga restaurants at bars kanya-kanya rin gimik. Magbabayad ka lang, makakapanood ka na ng live na bakbakan, may kasama pang pagkain. Kung wala kang perang pambayad, magtitiyaga ka sa delayed telecast sa free TV na punung-puno ng commercials. Alas-4 na ng hapon, hindi pa lumalaban si Pacquiao. Buong mundo nagbubunyi na, ikaw, nakanganga pa. 

Ang mga pulitiko natin, may sariling style rin. Kanya-kanya silang pamimigay ng libreng tiket para sa libreng panonood sa kani-kanilang constituents. Pero bakit 'yung iba may kasamang mukha at pangalan nila? Baka naman sa susunod na taon, kasama rin ito sa babanggitin nila sa kampanya nila? 

Pati mga TV networks nakikigulo rin. Kanya-kanya sila ng paggamit ng iba-ibang hashtag na may pangalan ni Pacquiao. May #OneForPacman, #GoManny, #PusongPacquiao, at iba pa. Ang isang TV network, nagkaroon pa ng virual punch campaign para maipakita ang suporta sa kampeon nila. Para saan? Siyempre para sumikat sila at magkaroon ng malaking kita. Pera-pera lang ang labanan. Hindi naman sila mag-aaksaya ng airtime sa TV at radyo kung wala silang kitang makukuha mula rito. Naisip n'yo ba 'yun? 

Lugi talaga tayo dahil ang mga pulitiko natin na pinapasweldo mula sa ating pagkalaki-laking taxes, ayun, halos lahat nasa Vegas para manood ng live. Hindi nagkasya sa pay-per-view, they crossed-borders-to-view. Ang isang malaking tanong ng lahat, saan kinuha ang pamasahe at pocket money nila? Sikreto 'yan, walang sinuman ang p'wedeng makaalam. 

Hindi ko ito sinulat upang mambasag ng trip sa maraming Pilipino na panatiko ni Ginoong Pacquiao. Ayaw kong lumabas na "KJ" (kill joy) o pesimistiko sa kung anuman ang nangyayari. Mangyari lamang po na medyo ako ay nakapag-isip-isip kaya kinalabit ang keyboard ng laptop ko at ipinost ang nilalaman ng isip at puso ko. 

Para kay Ginoong Pacquiao, hangad ko ang pagkapanalo mo sa laban kay Mayweather. Sana maenjoy mo ang anumang kikitain mo sa laban na ito dahil manalo o matalo, may pera ka. Ang mga Pinoy, manalo o matalo ka, siguradong tataas ang bill sa kuryente, mamamaos sa kasisigaw para i-cheer ka, at mababawasan ang pera sa bulsa. Pero, salamat pa rin dahil kahit isang araw, makakalimutan nila ang problema nila (kaya dapat manalo ka), mababawasan kung hindi man tuluyang mawawala ang masikip na traffic sa lahat ng kalsada, at magiging abala pati ang mga snatchers at holdupper sa bangketa. 

Suggestion lang po, sana sa Pilipinas naman gawin ang susunod na laban mo para tumaas ang turismo, makadagdag ng trabaho, at umangat kahit kaunti ang ekonomiya ng bayan mo. Kapag nangyari iyon, baka maniwala pa akong may pakinabang ka sa mga Pilipino. 

Sa lahat ng mga taong malalapit kay Ginoong Pacquiao, lahat ng mga personalidad na sumusuporta at paminsang-minsang pumapapel, sa mga TV networks na patuloy na kumikita, at sa mga promoter ng laban niya na sila lang naman talaga ang yumayaman at nakikinabang, WALA NAMAN PO SANANG GAMITAN AT UTUAN. 

At sa lahat ng Pinoy, enjoy the show mga kababayan. Sana sa bawat panonood, samahan din natin ng kaunting pag-iisip. Huwag puro puso at emosyon ang gamitin. 


(c) AL EDER

#Pacquiao #OneForPacman #IsangLabanIsangBayan #GoManny #PacMayFight #PusongPacquiao


YOUR COMMENTS (BOTH POSTIVE AND NEGATIVE) ARE VERY MUCH WELCOME.

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Photo downloaded from:
http://guemblung.biz/boxing-wallpaper/manny-pacquiao-logo-vector-hd.html/attachment/manny-pacquiao-logo-vector-hd-deviantart-more-like-jeff-the-killer-vs-jane-the-killer-by-image

The Zaccheus in Me: Personal Reflections on the Papal Visit

“Lord, I want to see the Pope!” This is my personal prayer to God days before the visit of Pope Francis. I don’t want to miss this chance because this is my first experience of a Papal visit. Although I am already in elementary and fully aware of what’s happening when St. John Paul II visited the country for the World Youth Day in 1995, I was not able to join the event. And since nobody knows when will be the next Papal visit after 2015, or if I am still alive when that event happens; I grabbed the opportunity. When the Archdiocesan Commission on Youth (ACY) of Manila called for some volunteers as animators for the Pope’s meeting with the young people at UST, I immediately signed up. I would have chosen to become mere spectator during the visit or even simply attend some of the scheduled events, but, I chose to be personally involved. I want to have a memorable experience with the Holy Father because I believe that God will surprise me.

And He did not disappoint me. The surprises came prior to the landing of the Holy Father’s airplane in the Philippines. As early as October, we convened for our rehearsals. Our coordinators set a rule that we are only allowed to have two absences or else we will be removed from the list. God surprised me. He was the one who fixed my schedule. I was able to attend the rehearsal on November 29 and came on time at Ninoy Aquino Stadium for our Gratitude Day celebration. The A&E exams of our ALS students which is scheduled on December 14, Sunday, was postponed that’s why I was able to attend our third practice..

Even my position in the stage, it was a gift from God. I may have been placed on the orchestra stage or on the bishops’ stage. I believe it was God who placed me there, on the second line of the animators on the main stage. It was only a day before when we were informed by Fr. Caloy that the Pope will come near to us and that he will be dancing with us. Fr. Caloy then requested us that on the last part of the song “Tell the World of His Love” we are to face the Holy Father so he may see us. My heart leaped for joy. Another surprise from the Lord. I already planned what I will do when that moment comes. I made sure that my phone is fully charged so that I may be able to capture a photo of the Holy Father. But, to tell you the truth, the plan almost failed. When I face the Holy Father, literally, my world stopped. I cannot move. I even forgot the next action of the song. I just looked at him. I agree with those people saying that when you see the Pope, you will be in awe. In short, matutulala ka and I experienced that.I will never forget the unlimited smile, the eye to eye contact, the arms and hands outstretched, blessing all of us. Then, I just saw myself crying. I saw Cardinal Tagle and one of the Dominican priests also crying. I saw Archbishop Soc Villegas and Archbishop Giussepe Pinto (the Papal Nuncio) looking at us, smiling. Thanks to God, I regained my consciousness. When the Holy Father prepares to leave the stage, I quickly get my phone inside my pocket and took photos of Pope Francis. I have my personal photos of him. Why did my world stop? Simply put, I saw and felt Jesus’ presence from Pope Francis.

Here are some of the photos of the Holy Father
captured by the camera of my cellphone.
Thanks to God, I was able to make it before he leaves the stage.

After that encounter, I reflected on my experiences. Through the use of three images, God sent me His message.

THE RAIN. For those present last Sunday, you would agree with me that that day is very inconvenient because of the rain. I am soaking wet and have no provisions to cover my body. Thanks to my small handkerchief, I was able to cover my head. But, that’s the blessings of God. God poured so many blessings to us through the Holy Father. He allowed the rain to pour so we can feel that He really loves us. The air is very cold but we can feel the immense heat of God’s love to us Filipinos and most especially to young people. God blessed us with the holy water literally from heaven. He promised us, through the prophet Isaiah that He will bless us and He will “let the clouds rain the just” (cf. Isaiah 45:8).

THE “KIKAY” KIT. Don’t bring backpacks, gadgets, ballpen, umbrellas, etc. Even headsets are being confiscated upon entrance. This is for security reasons. When I go out, I usually bring my body bag with me which contains my personal stuff. But on that day, I am walking it’s as if I am naked, with nothing except my cellphone on my right pocket, my cross on the left, and my handkerchief on my back pocket. I realized that in order to see God, Ineed to travel light. Leave the excess baggage of my life – regrets, pains, worries, and sin to leave a space and room for Jesus. He is true when he commissioned his disciples: “Take nothing with you for the trip: no walking stick, no beggar’s bag, no food, no money, not even an extra shirt.” (Luke 9:3) At the end of the day, it is only between me and my God.

THE TRANSPARENT BAG. Prior to the Papal events, we are reminded repeatedly that the transparent bags are the only one allowed for the convenience of security check. This, for me, is a symbol of a pure heart. In those days, I am being reminded to have an open and pure heart in order to see and experience the Kingdom of God. And for the messages of God thru Pope Francis to take effect and multiply, I am challenged to have an open and pure heart cultivated by constant prayer and acts of love. I must be transparent in front of God, no reservation, no apprehension, no wearing of masks. “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8)

In the end, I would like to compare myself to Zaccheus, who “was trying to see who Jesus was, but he was a little man and could not see Jesus because of the crowd.” (Luke 19:3) We are like Zaccheus who wants to see Jesus thru His vicar, the Pope. We are too little but as what the Holy Father told us, “Let us allow ourselves to be surprised by God.” Jesus surprised Zaccheus by inviting him to come down from the sycamore tree to visit his house (v. 5). Pope Francis is not with us physically anymore. He left our country but his teachings will still remain in our memory. The challenge for us young people is not to become “young museums who have everything but not knowing what to do with it”. Reiterating what the Holy Father told us: “We don’t need young museums but we do need HOLY YOUNG PEOPLE.” How? “It is the challenge of love. To learn how to love.”

The Holy Father will making his exit from the University of Santo Tomas 

after the encounter with the youth, January 18, 2015

Pope Francis' maxims

I was asked by one of our FMA Sisters in my workplace to come up with some tarpaulin designs with Pope Francis' photos, maxims, messages, and quotations. And here they are. While searching the internet for his pictures, I was so overwhelmed to see a lot of pictures of the Holy Father. One thing I realized, he's so photogenic and all of his photos on the web are very natural, nothing scripted. 

I uploaded them here for everybody to see. I did not put any watermark of my initials and name because they are not mine. The photos are not mine, more so are the statements. I simply put them together and contributed my creative juice to make more attractive and interesting. You may download them and utilize them for whatever means. You can make bookmarks and cards for some occasions out of them and give them to your loved ones. 

I hope I can make some more if time and my energy permit me to do so.

May this simple initiative be my little contribution for the Papal Visit as well as my expressions of my love for Jesus and Mary thru the Holy Father, Pope Francis.

Papa Francisco, mabuhay po kayo!

ANG ALAMAT NG PUTING POLO

Espesyal ang araw na ito para sa lahat ng mga gustong maging 'totoong guro'. LET na naman at siguradong marami na namang madadagdag sa listahan ng mga propesyunal na guro sa bansa. Naalala ko tuloy ang araw na kumuha ako ng parehong exams.

September 27, 2009 ang inilagay na petsa sa testing permit ko. 'Di natuloy 'yun dahil sa bagyong Ondoy. Kaya, rescheduled ng October 4. Sa Unibersidad de Manila ang aking testing center.

Siyempre bago dumating ang araw na 'yon, maraming paghahanda ang aking ginawa. 'Di na ako nag-enrol sa review sa school kasi gipit sa pera at ayaw ko ng dagdagan pa ang gastos nila Mama lalo na't graduating ako. Dinaya ko na lang mga kaklase ko. Nanghiram ako ng reviewers nila, pina-photocopy ko, at nag-self study ako. Babala: Huwag n'yo akong gagayahin, malulugi ang mga review centers sa inyo!

Bukod sa self review, inihanda ko rin ang sarili ko spiritually. Dahil sa kagustuhan kong makapasa para wala ng take two, kinaibigan ko sina St. Jude Thaddeus at St. Anthony de Padua. May schedule ang novena ko - Martes kay San Antonio, Miyerkules para sa Birhen ng Baclaran, at Huwebes para naman kay San Hudas Tadeo. Nagpabasbas pa nga ako ng lapis na gagamitin ko, isang Martes na nobena sa St. Anthony, Legarda. Salamat sa mga taong nagpakilala sa akin sa kanila.

Mahirap ang test. Sobrang hirap kaya wala na akong maalala kahit isa man sa mga tanong na naroon. Isang bagay lang talaga ang nananatiling maliwanag sa akin at tandang tanda ko pa hanggang ngayon - ang issue sa aking damit.

Required na magsuot ng puting damit sa araw ng LET. 'Di ko makita ang logic pero sige lang, 'yun ang rule e, kailangang sumunod baka manganib pa ako. So, the night before the 'big day', handa na ang white-striped semi-long sleeves na polo ko na susuotin ko kinabukasan. Natulog ako nang maaga nang gabing iyon dahil kailangan makaalis ako nang maaga at hahanapin ko pa ang school kahit na alam kong malapit lang 'yun sa university na pinapasukan ko. Basta, sa madaling salita, ayaw kong ma-late, tapos.

At dumating na nga ang araw ng pagtutuos. Bago magsimula ang test, may paunang ritwal pa ang proctor. Isa-isang tinawag ang mga magtetake ng test at inayos ang aming seating arrangement. Pagdating sa akin, huminto ang procotor, tiningnan ako, at biglang nagtanong: "Mr. Eder, bakit ganyan ang suot mong damit? Hindi ba dapat puti?" Sa paniniwalang puti ang suot ko dahil puti naman talaga, 'yun lang nahaluan ng stripes na black, sumagot ako, "Ma'am, bakit po? Puti naman po itong sunot ko ah." Ipinagpatuloy ni miss proctor ang interogasyon este pagtatanong, "Hindi puti 'yan. Dapat plain white. 'Yun ang tama. You're not wearing the proper dress code."

Sumagot ako with all humility: "Sorry po Ma'am. Akala ko po kasi pwede na itong suot ko e." Kinabahan talaga ako. Sa tono ni Ma'am Proctor, mukhang malaki ang probability na pauwiin niya ako at hindi pakuhanin ng test. Buti na lang, tinapos niya ang usapan sa ganitong closing statement: "OK, sa susunod hindi na pwede 'yan ah. Dapat sumunod sa dress code." Nakahinga ako nang maluwag at ang naisagot ko na lamang ay, "OK po! Thank you Ma'am."

Tuloy ang ligaya. Nakaraos sa tatlong set ng exams sa araw na iyon. Buti na lang wala ng next time gaya ng sinabi ni Ma'am Proctor. Sa awa ng Diyos at sa gabay ng mga friends ko in heaven, nakapasa sa LET at ngayo'y professional teacher for six years.

Ang akala kong mauudlot na pangarap, natuloy din. Lesson learned: matutong sumunod sa rules, sa instructions, sa batas, at sa alituntunin. Sa simpleng hindi pagsunod sa tamang kulay ng damit ay maaaring makasira sa magandang takbo ng buhay.

Ito ang memorable experience ko sa Licensure Exams for Teachers.

Sa mga 2014 test takers, God bless sa inyo! Hangad ko na maging matagumpay kayo. Ngayon pa lang, welcome to the club of Professional Filipino Educators!

Tula para sa mga Tsismoso't Tsismosa

Nagfe-Facebook ako nang aking makita ang isang simpleng tula na nakakuha ng aking interes at atensiyon. Naghanap ako ng tamang pagkakataon na maisama ko sa aking blog at dahil biktima ako ngayon ng walang kwentang tao na itago na lang natin sa pangalang "C" dahil siya'y Chismosa, eto na at ibabahagi ko na. 

Disclaimer: Hindi ito akin, nakita ko lang ito sa Facebook kaya ibabahagi ko sa inyo. Libre maglagay ng komento at reaksiyon. Enjoy!

TULA PARA SA MGA TSISMOSO'T TSISMOSA

Ang pagkakalat ng mga istorya
Tungkol sa buhay-buhay ng iba
Ay isang malinaw na tanda
Na ikaw ay walang magawa!

Tsismis dito, tsismis doon,
Ang oras mo'y nilalamon
Kahit diploma mo pa'y isang balunbon,
Talino mo'y natatapon!

O, bakit nga ba may mga tao
Na sa problema ng iba'y intresado?
Sila kaya'y may kalyo sa puso?
O sadyang mangmang nga lang siguro...

Naninira, bumubulong -
Diyan ang araw nila'y gumugulong
Sa Xerox, sa canteen, o kahit bubong
Animo'y laging nagpupulong!

O, tadhana, sa aki'y ipaliwanag
Kung bakit sila'y sa tsismis nababangag
Tinatakam na makapangalampag
Kahit sa dangal ng iba'y makabasag!

Huwag namang ang loob ay sumama,
Sa aking tanong at tula;
Ako lang naman ay nagtataka
Kung bakit sa mundo'y may mga katulad ka...

~ [ Papa Nicko ]

Si Papa!

Maraming bagay akong natutunan at natututuhan kay Papa. Si Papa ang nagturo sa akin ng pagpapahahalaga sa oras. Bata pa lang ako, madalas ko ng naririnig sa kanya ang "Di bale ng kayo ang maghintay, 'wag lang kayong magpapahintay." Noon, madalas inis ako kasi parang palagi kaming minamadali lalo na kapag aalis. 

Kasama ni Mama, sila ang nagpakilala sa akin sa Diyos. Bata pa lang kami, tuwing Linggo, kailangan naming gumising ng alas-5 ng umaga para makaabot sa 7 AM na misa sa San Felipe Neri Parish. Kaya nga ang akala ko dati, pag sinabing Simbahang Katolika, San Felipe lang 'yun. Hindi ko maintindihan noon na bakit kailangang gumising nang maaga at magsimba Linggu-linggo. Hindi man siya garantisadong paladasal at relihiyoso, itinuro niya sa amin ang pagmamahal at takot sa Diyos. Kaya, hanggang ngayon, kulang ang Linggo kapag hindi ako nakakasimba. 

Kung sa ibang bahay, hindi na uso ang kumain nang sabay-sabay, sa amin, hanggang ngayon ginagawa pa rin 'yon. Si Papa ang palaging nagpapaalala sa amin na "Mas masarap kumain kapag sabay sabay". Naalala ko dati, ang karaniwan niyang dating sa bahay mula sa trabaho ay alas sais ng gabi. Pagkapahinga ilang sandali, magyayaya na 'yan para kumain. Totoo nga na mas masarap at mas nakakagana ang kumain nang may kasama lalo na habang pinagkukuwentuhan ang mag pangyayari sa buhay ng bawat isa sa buong araw. Bagamat iba iba na ang pinagkakaabalahan naming mga anak ngayon, bahagi pa rin ng aming nakasanayan at tradisyon sa bahay ang kumain nang sabay sabay lalo na kapag hapunan.

Si Papa rin ang nagpaalab ng aking pagmamahal sa aking bansa. Sa mga kuwento niya noong EDSA 1, mararamdaman mo ang alab ng kanyang pagmamahal sa bayan. Si Papa ay aktibo sa mga rally noong panahon ng Martial Law lalo't higit noong panahon ng EDSA. Kahit salungat sila sa pananaw ng aking lolo pagdating sa pulitika noong panahong iyon, pinanindigan niya ang sa palagay niya ay tama at totoo. Sayang nga lang, ang koleksiyon niya ng mga memorabilia ni Ninoy Aquino at ng EDSA 1 ay napasama sa mga naabo noong nagkasunog sa amin noong 2001. 

Si Papa rin para sa akin ay imahe ng isang mahinahon at mapagpasensiyang tao. Kaya niyang pagtiisan ang lahat ng hirap na nararanasan niya sa araw araw kasama ang pahirap na bigay ng ibang tao. Kahit na may mga taong gumagawa ng hindi maganda sa kanya, maririnig mo pa rin sa kanya "Hayaan niyo lang sila." Siya ang tipo ng tao na kapag naubos ang pasensiya, talagang lalabas ang galit. Pero kung kaya niyang pagpasensiyahan, pagpapasensiyahan niya.

Malaki ang pagpapahalaga ni Papa sa aming pamilya at mahal na mahal niya ang nanay ko. Bagamat may mga pagkakataong hindi sila nagkakaintindihan, napag-uusapan naman at naayos pa rin ang gusot. Hindi naman din perpekto ang pamilya namin. Muntik pa nga silang tuluyang maghiwalay ni Mama noong mga bata pa kami. Salamat sa Diyos at hindi Niya pinayagan 'yon. Salamat na rin sa kanilang dalawa, na mas pinili ang laki ng pagmamahal sa isa't isa kaysa ang pride nila. Kaya, proud na proud ako sa pamilya namin.

Hindi ko pinlano na isulat ang blog entry na ito para ngayong Father's Day. Pero, bigla lang akong nainspire na ipaalam sa mundo kung gaano ako ka-proud sa tatay ko. Salamat Panginoon at ginawa mo akong anak ng tatay ko. Salamat dahil binigay mo siya sa amin bilang ama. Patawad sa mga pagkakataong hindi ako naging isang mabuting anak sa kanya. Dasal ko lang po ay palagi Mo siyang ingatan at itabi sa iyong piling kasama ng aking Mama. 

Sa aking Papa, salamat po at mahal na mahal po namin kayo! Hindi lang obvious, pero totoo 'yun. Love you Pa!

Hoy! PINOY ako!

The Philippines is a unique country and Filipinos, indeed, is a special race. With over 7,000 islands and islets that constitutes its archipelagic nature, 55 languages and 172 dialects, and a multiplicity of religions, the Philippines possesses a variety of culture that makes it different from its neighboring countries around Asia and on the world. But, amidst the modern generation and global demands of the present, are these unique cultures still present today? Are these cultures possessed by Filipinos still introduce the national identity of the country to the world? Or are we, Filipinos, already Westernized that we already forgot that we have our own unique identity different from other races that makes us really special?

In other words, do our own cultures, traditions, and beliefs still exist today amidst the global influence of modernization? I, as a Filipino, really believe that we still have our own identity although we are being influenced by other countries especially the western ones. Let me enumerate seven things that make us different from other nations.

First, we are still religious up to this time. This trait is not only manifested by Christians but also of our brother Muslims in the country. According to Pastor Ed Lapiz, the head pastor of Day by Day Christian Ministries, as what I have read in an article entitled ‘What makes every Filipino Special?’ written by Marielle Vergara, “the Filipinos’ spirituality makes him invoke a divine presence or intervention at nearly every step of his journey in life”. We Filipinos are indeed prayerful. In Filipino Psychology, we have a unique trait called Bahala Na. It is the “frameless” reliance of confidence and trust in the Transcendent God. Actually, it is rooted on the words Bathala Na which means entrusting everything to God especially those beyond our capacity and limitations. It is a good trait if not abused and misconceived. Furthermore, our religiosity is being manifested in some ways. Who among us are not aware of the annual celebration of the feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila every 9th of January? Who among us did not practice the tradition of Simbang Gabi and the colorful Christmas season? Are we not aware of the Islam practice, Ramadan? All these and many more prove that despite the modernization, we are still very spiritual in essence. This makes us the major exponent of faith.

Can you see the image of the Black Nazarene? Of course not! Because of the throngs of people gathered around Him. That's the Filipino's faith. Photo courtesy: http://m5.paperblog.com/i/40/407775/feast-of-the-black-nazarene-2013-L-Nkdzxj

Second, Filipinos still possess the world’s renowned hospitality trait. We are still accommodating to everyone especially to our guests up to this time. This image of Pinoys as being very neighborly people is something even foreigners attested. They are very happy visiting our country because they feel that they are being wholeheartedly accepted manifested by our big smiles and accommodating gestures and manners. In every Filipino homes and communities, there is always a room for one more.

Third, Filipinos today are still a celebrating people. Amidst the countless economic crises, natural disasters, political turbulence, and even personal problems we have encountered and are encountering, we do not forget to wear a smile in our faces always. We easily celebrate and we always look for any reason to celebrate. One good example of this is the fiesta, common to every Filipino community, celebrating, as if it’s our last. Who would not forget the images of the aftermath of typhoon Yolanda who struck the country in 2013 and would almost erase some provinces in the Visayas? It is beyond everyone's imagination but the resiliency of Filipinos made them stand up again and wear a genuine smile on their faces. 

A celebrating people despite hardships in life. A genuine smile in everyone's face. Photo courtesy: http://beachresortphilippines.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Friendly-Filipino

Fourth, Filipinos are still music lovers. Way back in our ancestors’ time and up to this modern age, we are still musical. We like to pour out our emotions through music. This is manifested by the culture of karaoke or videoke. It is a common way of Filipinos to recreate and a way of releasing our stress and tensions, forgetting our problems even for a while. Also, the musicality of Filipinos is manifested by the evolution of the kind of music in the Philippines, specifically, the Manila Sound. From the sounds and music popularized by the local bands such as Hotdog, VST and Co., Boyfriends, and Juan dela Cruz Band in the 1970s, it is now being carried on by the present groups like Easerheard, Rivermaya, Parokya ni Edgar, Bamboo, Cueshe, Calla Lily, and a lot more. The birth of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) in the 70s gives way to the evolution of the new kind of music and sound that we have right now that is solely from the Pinoys, by the Pinoys, and for the Pinoys.

Fifth, Filipinos today are still sociable. We love to be in the company of people. We have our own term of barkadahan. In our community working together, there should be bayanihan or mutual help. During our childhood years, when we are playing, we want a kalaro (playmate) more than a laruan (toy). It is also usual that in social gatherings, invitations are open that we never forget to bring a friend or friends along. Furthermore, we don’t want to be separated from the group when we are commuting, for example, so if the bus or jeepney is full, there’s no problem, we have our instant answer and that is kalong kalong (sitting on the lap). Also, when we are sleeping, we prefer most that we are tabi-tabi (side by side) than to sleep alone. These manifest that every Filipino is very comfortable with, and derives pleasure in human company. That is why, we have unique and distinguishing characteristics among others - the pakikisama and the pakikipagkapwa. Today, even after we are being modernized, our kapwa tao still matters to us. Our kapwa, according to the Father of Filipino Psychology, Virgilio Enriquez, is our recognition of our shared identity, an inner self shared with other. That is why pakikipagkapwa simply means that we treat other people as our co-equals. In addition to, it is also unique today in every Filipino the different terms we used, that if we trace back, were derived through the simple word ‘ka’. Examples of these are kasama (of the same company), kaisa (of the same cause), and kapanalig (of the same belief). There are still other ka words such as kaibigan, katulong, kasangga, kabatak, katoto, katropa, kapamilya, and even, kapuso. Truly, these cultures and traits are only unique among Filipinos.

Sixth, amidst the modernization today, we Filipinos are still unique in our dishes, delicacies, ingredients, and condiments. Filipinos really love to eat. Who among is not familiar with our very own sinigang, a dish of either pork, beef, shrimp, or fish in vegetable broth soured with acidic fruits? It is everybody’s favorite. Who among us is not aware with our very own perfect pulutan during social drinking- the kinilaw or kilawin? It is the uncooked fish marinated in vinegar using salt and pepper. Who did not even taste the Pinoy’s balut, a boiled fertilized duck’s eggs developed into an embryo peppered with salt and vinegar when eaten? Ask a Filipino about how one can acquire instant energy and you will hear him saying: “Kumain ka ng balut!”. Also, we have our very own fish delicacies such as the tinapa, danggit, tuyo, and fish pinaputok. Lastly, we have our favorite Filipino meat dishes such as the papaitan, kare-kare, kalderetang kambing, dinuguan, and adobo. We still even have our bagoong (fish paste) and patis (fish sauce), our native condiments. All these are still present in every Filipino family’s dining table especially during celebrations which suggest that we are still unique among others when it comes to food.

The Pinoy food - Only in the Philippines. Photo courtesy: http://i0.wp.com/www.romblonlifestyles.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/filipino-food

And finally, we still have our own possessions unique in us. Where in the world can you find passenger jeepneys like our very own Sarao? Jeepneys are one of the major means of transportation especially in the metropolis. They usually come in different designs and slogans such as “Katas ng Saudi”, “Basta Driver, sweet lover”, and other amusing lines that suggest the creativity and the uniqueness of Filipinos. Furthermore, only in the Philippines you can find the near-perfect cone of Mayon Volcano which is in Albay. Every Filipino should be proud knowing that the world’s beautiful volcano rests in our soil. On the other hand, if Mayon is nature’s gift to the Philippines, we Filipinos have a gift to the world- the Banaue Rice Terraces. The beautiful staircase-like rice fields is included in the United Nations Cultural Heritage List. Unfortunately, it is not being taken care of now due to the lack of farmers because of the call of modernization. Let’s just hope and pray that this wonder will not come to its end. Lastly, it is also unique in Filipino culture today are our native products made of indigenous materials such as the banig, buntal hats, tampipi, and others which showcase the creative and excellent Filipino craftsmanship. Surely, these hinabi products are for exports around the world.

THE BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINES IN MY CAMERA LENS

The world renowned Chocolate Hills in Bohol

The beautiful beach of Calatagan, Batangas

Behind me is the century-old Paoay Church in Ilocos

It's as if I'm holding the top of the bell tower of one of the old Churches in Ilocos (Sorry I forgot the name...hehehehe)

Those seven things I mentioned above are not even enough when we talk about the beautiful culture of the Filipinos. There are still many more that if we enumerate all, we’ll surely run out of words. I believe that amidst the global demands of modernity, our own culture still lives, which make us different from others. According to His Eminence Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, the Archbishop Emeritus of Manila: “We are called as Filipinos, a people who have a history of struggle and promise, a people endowed with character, soul, and a culture of our own. Let us not forget that we are one nation”. Surely, we are a unique race and we are in a unique and beautiful country. Let us not forget that we are Filipinos and we will always be. Don’t let the culture of modernity eat our own national identity. Let us stand firm and proudly and hold on to our culture as we grasp the idea of the modern times.

References:
Vergara, Marielle. WHAT MAKES THE FILIPINO SPECIAL?
Losorata, Yugel. THE PINOY IN EVERY BALIKBAYAN