Osmena Peak

With the Mountain kiddos

" The Beauty of the Mountain is hidden for all those who try to discover it from the top, supposing that, one way or an other, one can reach this place directly. The Beauty of the Mountain reveals only to those who climbed it..."

- Antoine de Saint-Exupery

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We decided to meet with the rest of the climbers at the gasoline station near the mercado of Carbon, there were trips that heads directly to Mantalungon, and we were told that it leaves at around 6AM but the bus had engine trouble – and we just can’t afford waste time. We had to go to the south station and ride a bus that would take us to Dalaguete town proper.

At the poblacion of quiet Dalaguete, close to several tiendas (one of which is Julies – a favorite!) upon disembarking from the multicab – we were swarmed by habalhabal operators, sensing that we were headed to Matalungon trail.

The habalhabal ride is quite an experience; the ride uphill takes around 20-25 minutes. The trip was rough, road was covered in dust, it was one helluva trip. The only downside is that you end up with sore butt cheeks. We all got off in Mantalungon public market.

Recognized as the “vegetable basket of Cebu”, its chilly climate and rich earth, offers an ideal condition for farming vegetables, variety that are known to favor mild climate. Walking en route to the trail, we saw several homes and schools, it was remarkable because of the barrio’s distance from the poblacion and and the main road. Mantalongon is indeed a spectacular mountain barrio.

The trek is visibly marked, it was just a matter of following it to the top– and since the mountain villagers, mostly farmers, are everywhere, scattered throughout the mountain you can always ask for instructions. On the way to the top, we pass by little clear streams and pleasant vegetable farms. Nearing the peak, some kids led the group to the top, they made climbing look easy.

The people of Dalaguete, especially the Mantalongon villagers are good-natured people. I’ve read experiences (most are not even firsthand) posted over the net about the place being unsafe particularly for campers. I believe that it’s not a dangerous location - like all places you’ll just have take precautionary measures, somehow unverified accounts of crimes committed in the mountain are exaggerations.

We reached the peak pass 12 noon, we ate a light meal and rested on the summit for hours, taking pleasure the mountain offers - islands of Bohol, Negros Oriental and Siquijor all clearly visible. The peak grants its visitors a view of Cebu’s coast to the west and east.

Reporting from Cebu

I took a night flight to Cebu last Thursday; I was in Mactan in less than an hour. Air travel has made what was once a lengthy trip into a very short trip. [ a commute to EDSA from my place in Muntinlupa takes longer!]

It was a smooth flight; I was a bit uneasy because it was my first time flying at night. It was nice to see Macati and its city lights, just as I was starting to enjoy the specks of illumination beneath, the Captain announced that were descending towards Mactan and that we were somewhere in Masbate.

I would be writing from here for now. Saludos!

Down the River

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="393" caption="A colorful boat loaded with passengers crossing the river"][/caption]

Crossing Pasig river on a banca was a father and son affair that I always look forward to, we had relatives in Mandaluyong then, and during the weekends and holidays we would often come and visit. My father, a frugal and impatient traveler prefers the wet and rickety banca ride, it was inexpensive and the fastest way he said, but I knew even then that crossing the river is not the safest commute one could take - but for a kid my age, water is fun!

But with all the bad things we hear about the river, its significance in our history would never diminish, the great Nick Joaquin went on to state that this graceful river created Manila. Kingdoms were founded on its banks, without it there would be no settlements and commerce in prehispanic Manila,  Legazpi would've stayed in Cebu and not bother to establish Manila as Spain's colonial capital.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="327" caption="The boat ride that brings people from Macati to Mandaluyong (look at how it unevenly tilts to its side)"][/caption]

Macati during the Spanish times was a holiday place for the affluent families of Manila, trying to escape the oppressive heat of the sun - they built vacation residences near the waterway where it is said to be cooler. I grew up hearing stories of its splendor, how people would catch countless fishes of diverse kind and how riverside dwellers would leisurely bathe on its fresh waters during summertime, this was of course before the informal settlers and factories came to its banks and condemned the river to its death.

If you want to go back further in time, there were the "aguadores" who would collect drinking water on some part of the river where it is clear and vend it on the street, yes, people had drunk water from that river!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="393" caption="A Family on deck observing the Pandacan oil depo"][/caption]

Today, I boarded a ferry in Guadalupe Nuevo, the ride would take me to Plaza Mexico in Intramuros, I'm not crossing the rio this time - I'm taking a ride down the river! I was surprise how organize everything was, the ferry station was clean and the personnel are all in uniform, and they were extremely polite. The ferry was on time, it was spotless and air-conditioned. People should start riding ferries - its cheaper, safe and efficient. The ferry have ample supply of life jackets, it also have a flat screen television and a clean toilet.

After Sta. Ana, people were allowed to go on deck, it wasn't so bad, I hardly notice the stench the river is now famous for, from there one could see all the swarming houses and crumbling factories ashore, rubbish together with water lilies were floating all over the place, amazingly, I saw men and children bathing - for them the provincial beaches are too far, too pricey, while the Pasig rivers water is free of charge, so there they are, swimming along with waste and dirt!

Historical accounts tells us that crocodiles once exist in this river, people then would bathe in enclosed areas, where the resilient bamboo buried in the riverbed would protect them, the crocodiles are all gone now, they were hunted to extinction! well, even if they weren't obliterated by the riverside dwellers, I doubt it if they could endure the polluted Pasig river of the 1900's.

For the fishermen, life goes on. When I was younger, I've always enjoyed observing them from the banks, theirs is a trouble-free life, I would even draw pictures of them on my elementary notepads, of course when you start to learn about life's reality you begin to understand that these men's lives are not as easy as it appears to be. During my childhood the river was already filthy, it produces an overpowering smell [esp. when a big boat or a barge would disturb its waters] my father would slap my hands whenever I'd dip them in the water while on a banca. I thought that 20 years has past since then, no fishermen could ever make a living out of these grubby waters now, I was wrong, they are still there, as if nothing has change.

At the PUP station, coast guards boarded and inspected the ferry, we were getting close to Malacañan, we were told not to take pictures, for a while I thought that they would also command us to close our eyes, the level of insecurity of this current administration is incredible. People who were trying out the ferry ride were puzzled, someone said, "baka kasi nagbibihis si Gloria at mabosohan nyo' pa!", even the Coast Guard man smiled. I hope that instead of prohibiting people to take pictures of a palace where some of their tax money go, the government should focus on improving those pitiable coast guard vessels, a dragon boat could out run those obsolete vessels stationed near the PUP.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="393" caption="The historic Manila Central Post Office Building"][/caption]

When we reached Ayala Bridge I saw hospicio de San Jose, the Isla de Convelancia , it has served this nation since 1810, mainly an orphanage, it also provides shelter for the elderly, its now being administered by the Daughter of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul. These institutions reminds me of the good that came from our despised Spanish past, its so beautiful and so peaceful. It is said that Hospicio was the place where patients from the other old Manila hospitals is sent to recover faster. I would want to visit it one day.

The terminal in Quiapo appears unsafe, and this has nothing to do with the ferry service, its not their fault that the squatters are there, you would have to alight under bridge and walk until you reach the back portion of the Quinta Market. I would not suggest going down here, specially if your one of those people that can't be without the expensive gadgets, not unless you want to get acquainted with the tattooed tambays there.

The view of Binondo and the Intramuros from the ferry was remarkable, we were fast approaching the last terminal, one could picture how beautiful this places were then, the ferry arrived at Plaza Mexico in Intramuros exactly 45 minutes after the it departed Guadalupe, I felt good about the trip and I hope people would try it. But in order to enjoy the ride you'll have to use your imagination and travel back in time.

Team Day Outs

I took this pic on our last Tagaytay visit, inside a crumbly rustic open hut where we ate like savages, the sunset was to be mine...

When I was still working for that call center in Alabang, I frequently bring my team to that cliché place, for the south metro crowd, Tagaytay, its the closest place where you could still see nature and unwind your tired out mind, with all the stress mounting up on the call floor, it helps to slow down things a little within, people are really glad about just having the time to relax and enjoy the company of their peers. This is the reason why I'm big on this type of activities, other sups don't get it, I do, its always a rejuvenating experience, it's good thing for everybody.

The other place, Calamba, probably nearer compared to Tagaytay, is also a fine spot to hang about, but outside its rented pools and annoying vendors, it doesn't have anything more to offer, for company outings that is [for history students the place should be a gold mine], but some of my team players favors the nighttime swims and the wild merry making it provides, perhaps I could never understand how someone could gulp a case of beer, smoke a pack of cigarrettes, and be satisfied, its ridiculous, they're just the "partying type of animals - its all good", I keep telling myself [I think almost all people are, except me and the majority of the nerd populace], anyway, whatever works for them serves me. These people worship booze, do all the foolish dancing and not to be forgotten, the mighty karaoke [or is it videoke?], people are always fighting over it, and the crazy thing is that everyone sounds dreadful, but the crazier part is that people enjoys hearing others appalling singing voices, you got to love these crazy people. Before the day ends, people are drunk, and me, weary of all the eating, the bone of my nape hurting and feeling heavy from all the cholesterol I digested, watch as my team make complete fools of themselves! I guess the only thing that really matters to us is that everyone, even for a short moment, is happy, it matters because in our line of work, it takes a lot of effort sometimes just to be happy.

As for me, I like nature tripping better, the scenes are the ones I commit to memory, top these with a delightful [often unhealthy] eating, now that is what I call a true getaway for me. The memories I take pleasure in are the days we exhausted in that admired Dominican church on a hill in Nasugbu and the trouble-free Tagaytay treks.

I started to muse over these things when I got a text message from one of my agents, Pokwa, who also happen to be a great friend 'til now [I don't know why], she was telling me how people from my old team would chatter about all the pleasure trips we had, she would inform me how some could even go into the minutest details, its been so long, I don't even remember a lot about what she's telling me [my memory really is not serving me good!] but I guess thats the enchantment of the famous team A day outs, it stays with those who has been part of it, as for me, I can still vibrantly recall the maddest laughter's and the happiest faces.

My New Years Eve and my Hopes for the New Year!

Happy New Year from the Lion City

We woke up early today [Dec 31 2008] to shop for some foodie stuff for the new year celebration later, we Filipinos must have our 'media noche' food [It's not a maligayang bagong taon without it], yes, even in foreign lands we do keep our traditions alive but here they have not heard of the five stars, kuwitis, watusi, sawa and bawang - these explosive devices are our versions of the old Chinese firecrackers, the only difference is, ours is the disfiguring kind.

At the grocery, I purchased the usual rounded fruits [it must be bilog! They will bring me money for 2009, yes!] I remember that these fruits is a must have back home, my mother told me that it represents a bountiful harvest, something that we should be hoping for the next year. I hope it'll do the trick for '09!

Back home I started to cook some pasta, the end product was rather sweet, well, I like nectarous eats anyway so I'm happy with it. I also placed some money on the table for additional luck. With all the troubling news I've been hearing lately, I think we all could use some more [and more!] luck this coming year.

We went to church afterward; it's pretty close to where we live so we left the house at 10:00 for the 11:45 morning mass. Upon reaching the Novena church, I saw countless monobloc chairs, in red and white, scattered all over the place, after the mass it was announced that there will be a pre New Year mass at 2345, I heard that such a celebration is popular here.

For this final day of 2008, I prayed for our nation to heal, right now we are broken but I have no doubt in my heart that we will improve, yes, life's getting hard for the average Filipino; it's getting tough out there but if we could work together and look out for each other, things will get better!

For 2008 and 2009:

It was this year that I started to blog, I never really thought that I would be running the site this long but I really enjoy writing here and seeing many people visit the site is flattering, even if they end up disliking the stuff that I post [including my faulty grammars and misspelled words!], it makes no difference to me, I consider them all my friends! I wish everyone here the best!

Peace!

I wish everyone a happy new year, the prospect for the year 2009 they say is not good, but what the heck, nothing gets in the way of the Filipino! We are the happiest people on the earth! They say that jobs would be lost [and all the blah blah's], the heck! I have a friend that doesn't even have the job, never had one since we graduated 2003! And he's happy! Living with his mom and dad. Moral lesson is enjoy life, the challenge is finding happiness, finding joy, ending our hateful ways!

Let's be happy, Filipino!

Happiness and Prosperity!

Prospero Nuevo Ano!

Fort Canning's Hidden Tombstones

One of my favourite places to visit are old cemeteries, yes, eternal homes, memorial parks [whatever it's called these days], I find it ironic that these places which have markers dedicated for the dead could tell us  a lot about life, well, the life lived by its residents that is. In the gravestones that I found, not only contain the usual information we  see back home, like, where they were born and date that they died, some of the epitaphs also presented information's on the deceased trade or profession, affiliations, names of their ship, their lineage and other more, it was strange but never the less, very interesting, you're like reading a posthumous resume. Some had more than one language inscribed; it was an impressive memorial considering that most of these gravestones have been around for almost two hundred years.

Established in 1823, the cemetery served mainly Protestants and Catholics. There are two majestic arches that in a way resembles that of the gates of Intramuros, it has the initial IHS, the first three letters of the name Jesus in Greek. In mid 1800's the site no longer could accommodate burials, the cemetery was permanently closed, there were several attempts to have it reopened, however none were authorized. In the 1950's a significant number of gravestones were removed [to free up space?], the few remaining stone memorials where fixed to the cemetery walls.

Today, one could enjoy a leisurely walk in this peaceful nature park while enjoying the natural scenes and viewing the old tombstones. It was a cloudless afternoon, the sun was exposed, but the trees were countless, they kept the place cool and misty. Up in the hill, behind the elevated white hill house, which looks like the Malacanan from a distance [now cultural theatre and venue], I witnessed a regal wedding in an area that call to mind our charming Paco cemetery [now also a park], they were the moneyed class here [mga mapera!] all the parked cars on the cemented pavement were luxury cars [cars that I usually see on posters with half naked female models], everything looked extravagant, I hang around for awhile and listened to an acoustic duo that serenaded the newlyweds.

One of the famous residents of the this old Christian cemetery is George Coleman [not Foreman the boxer], the famed Irish architect, credited to have given Singapore its first beautiful buildings, like the first Government house, St. Andrews, Parliament, Raffles Institute and the Armenian Church. He also built this structures called Cupolas, right in the middle of the cemetery, probably a place built as a shed but it's too small and could only accommodate few people, maybe two - I believe that this structures where built for the spirits [his and his wife] its an odd structure, this is the first time I've seen one.

Coleman would be Burnham to Singaporeans, he's credited to have given Singapore its true English buildings. It was said that the first Catholic Church in Singapore was originally designed by him; however, it was not approved because  of financial issues.



Coleman was also commissioned by Raffles to several jobs including overseeing convict labours and surveying the many islands, but he's best remembered for his contribution in architecture. His tombstone was dedicated by his wife, it was an impressive and very well made gravestone, the Singapore historical commision as placed a metal marker, so people could easily spot the grave. Mrs. Coleman would later marry a man named James Napier, said to be the first Law agent in the straits settlements, she would dedicate another grand memorial tomb here  later on, but this time to her son with Napier, James Brooke Napier , their prominence can be seen in the graceful memorial head stones that still stands in the cemetery hill.



Coleman's house [the street was renamed after him] , which is near the old cemetery was converted into a hotel long after he died, it is now where the Peninsula hotel stands. The Coleman house could be the hotel where Rizal stayed, however, I could not find anything that could substantiate this, although I'm certain that the area where Peninsula hotel now is where Rizal's Hotel de la Paix was located. Whether it was Coleman's house that became the hotel later on is still a question to me, I have yet to see a map or something to find out if they were the same.

Somewhere in the hill, I stumbled upon a small house made of solid timber, there was a centrepiece that was covered in silky clothe, it was adorned with fresh flowers and some fragrant object, the place is said to be the final resting place of the last king of Malaya, he was a Muslim Rajah, the Malay people revered him. I saw there some people cleaning the wooden floor. The house is traditionally built like the wooden houses that can be found in Mindanao. The place is known to Malay as Bukit Larangan, the word Bukit is where our Bukid originated, Larangan to Malay is forbidden, for us I believe it means 'field'. For years they have considered the hill a no entry zone, of course when the British came that all changed. Raffles built his house on the hill, he once wrote a friend that he would not mind being buried alongside the Malayan king, however, it is yet unproven if the great Rajah was indeed buried on his hill, since it was recorded that he died in Malaca. There were an excavation that was carried out and they had found eveidence that could prove that the hill was the site of Iskandar Shah.



I saw people cleaning the wooden house, scrubbing it [binubunot] they must be the assigned cleaners, which reminds me of my grade school years where school children were assigned to be cleaners depending on the day, mine is usually Monday since my last name start with an A. The wooden house has striking similarity to the Mindanaoan wooden houses, it was humble yet poetic, it has a pointed edge on its roof, it's open on all sides and there were people kneeling on its hard wood parquet. I did not bother to enter and take pictures; I don't want to disturb what there were doing inside. I took a picture from a distant and moved on.

There is so much to see in this hill, there's a botanical garden, it has hundreds of plants with name plates on it. It was said that Raffles also had ordered spices to be planted for studies and future plans of making  them steady agricultural produce. Unlike Magellan or Legazpi, who has been succesfully demonized in our popular history, this man Raffles seems to enjoy a rock star stature here, he's regarded as the founder of the modern Singapore, when he claimed the island for the English empire. One could go around his garden and find exotic plants, plants that I have never seen even in books, I did however found Kamias, I wanted to take some home for sinigang but I decided not to, I might get fined, they don't call this country the Fine city for nothing. Sinigang by the way is Malay in origin.

I noticed a tombstone that I believe belongs to an Armenian, on it, the birthplace written was "Manila", Filipinos had great ports then in Spanish Manila - migration was extensive even then. Another had the Masonic emblem on it, actually I've seen several around - they must've been really devout and proud members of that secret society. I also saw Star of David symbol, turns out that they had a healthy Jewish population then, Jewish were very influential in the islands - I remember this ambassador to France, I believe he was Singapore's first non Oriental high ranking diplomat. I also discovered interesting are the angels carved in marbles, they were like jewels, they look as if they have just been made recently.

There was this tombstone that was dedicated by the officers and crew member of a US Navy ship, they probably buried their fallen comrade here for practical reasons,  a voyage back to midland US is a distant transit, so he was laid to rest here in a tropical island. Everywhere I find curious epitaphs, some had expressive verses, other were plain, providing only the names and life in years.

Even on a hot day, the climate remained cool, thanks to the rainforest like vegetation, I stayed in the area for three hours, wandering around and occasionally taking breathers in between, hiding beneath the shades of the hills mighty trees. I'm sure going to look for old burial places back home, who's with me?

Some Letter from Singapore

Most Filipinos comes to Singapore, either as a tourist or a job hunter, it could also be both, and I'm just the tourist minus the budget. When I first landed here about a month ago, I was surprised how everything is so organized. I guess it's as good as advertised.  From the airport, I saw magnificent tall trees, there were so many of them that they resembles a rain forest. This was a surprise because I was under the impression that being a small nation, meant cramped living villages and horrific traffic jams! I was wrong, they don't have it here, and a traffic jam here is when your vehicle is moving slow at 30 in the speed-o-meter.

I later found out that the space they have is due to a city planning that involves building, well, buildings. They call it HDB, these are home estates here, I don't know how many families can live in one building alone but I could imagine it could be hundreds or more. With this masterful planning they solved the housing issue, I remember we had a similar program back home, we called it the BLISS, well it looks like it was truly a bliss for it did not last long, come to think of it we should've continued doing it, it could solve our housing problems, were not really a big nation, lands would become an issue later on.

The housing here are ok, by that I mean, don't not expect a condominium or a hotel accommodation, you pay the rent and utilities and you have place you can call your own, and there, you're on your own too. The flats here are complete, I love taking hot baths and doing some work in the kitchen, you really need not to worry about anything except the rent. They have everything well taken care of, there was this morning when I just woke up and I saw a man scrubbing and washing the pathways outside. I also saw people trimming lawn grass and disinfecting the sewage [using some white mixture that smells awful]. Then you would not see these people again for some time, they'll reappear all of a sudden, they're a mystery to me, they're like Santa Clause' little workers! Most of these informal workers are Indian looking.

Transport here is easy, by train and bus [if your lazy take cab, its great way to ride but a bit pricey], all you need is a loaded card. It's the same card you use for both. Everything is strategically located, most train stations are located inside a mall, the buses on the other hand have huge interchange stations, in almost every street corner there are very clean waiting sheds, these sheds are well lit during the night time, buses are numbered and one only needs to check the list located at waiting sheds. It's simple enough that even a grade schooler can hop around town using it.

I prefer riding buses than traveling by train, the first Singapore tour I ever had was with these buses, with its wide clear windows you could do a lot of sightseeing, I particularly like the double decker [which remind me so much of those old open air double decker buses in Luneta], it has very cool air conditioning, it also have wide seats, they have small televisions that only shows a local news channel. I would usually go around riding buses until dusk; it's cheap so it's better than cabs. They're very efficient, they have schedules that you can follow, you can expect this bus to be on time every time, that's clock work, that's precision!

The food here is something else, my weight is testament to what's on a Singaporean plate. Everywhere you go there are these stalls they call "hawker", in fact there is one right below our flat, food abound and it won't cost you an arm and a leg. For 3.50 Singaporean dollar, you could buy a big [very] bowl of noodles, a soup that back home could satisfy two people, it will also provide you with all the nutrition and energy you'll need for the entire day! its that heavy.  Aside from the foods availability and cheapness, everything tastes good, the variety is quiet impressive as well -Indian, Chinese, Malay, Muslim Cuisine, Vegetarian etc. etc... They all taste extremely well, Chinese of course is a favorite but I also learned how to eat Indian food, like the "Prata' with some chilly curry, I like it a lot. Here, you'll always find a reason to be hungry.

The people here seems to live their lives in a past phase, they are all rushing to go to a bus, the mrt, around the malls, they always have reasons to move fast, they are very time conscious. As I've written before, the diversity is admirable, you have all kinds of people here, and all the major religions are here too, and they don't fight with each other, there is even a street where you could find a Hindu temple sitting side by side with a Buddhist temple. The tolerance and respect here should serve as a model to all of us, they've proven that the religions of this world can co-exist.

There are beggars here too, but they usually play instruments or they sing, they just don't beg, I find it odd that even their begging is regulated, they possess ID's and most of them are dressed well. My favorite is this blind Chinese man, who plays near where our home is, he's a maestro, he plays the electric guitar better than I did when I was in high school, he's like Satriani out there. I usually would go visit his place but lately he's no longer performing in his old spot, I wonder what happened.

If you love nature you'll definitely enjoy your stay here, they have parks that serves as nature reserves, so vast that one would find it admirable how they  maintain it. Like this one park which is just a short ride away from here, Bishan, it's a huge park, the trees are tall and old, the birds are so beautiful there, I even saw a squirrel, and they have ponds where people do fish, gardens that are teeming with greens and brightly colored flowers. I usually stroll to exercise in that park, when I'm tired I would just sit down and read books, since I brought with me only three titles, I've reread the books so many times already.

I would try to remember some more of my Singapore experience. This would be all for now.

Taxi cum Political Theorist

You know that a country is fairly doing well when they have mercedez benz converted into taxis roaming their busy streets. Taxi service, drivers and units here are very interesting scenes, they complete the island nations landscape, just like our Jeep do back home you see them everywhere. Drivers here are multiracial, most are very kind and knows a thing or two about tourism so you could ask them for recommendations and they would give you accurate information. They are also equipped with state of the gadgets. They take care of business here because the more tourist means more passengers. Majority speaks english and just like in any parts of the world, they tend to engage their passengers in subjects ranging from the simple stuff around like the best places to eat to national politics or if your lucky, a mystic of a cab driver that can foretell your destiny. I have been talking to them a lot that I already know the mechanics of how to own and operate these cabs, the downsides and its long term benefits. Like our drivers back home, they get a kick out of 'having no boss', here drivers lease their cabs, so technically they own it.

I got an interesting cab driver tonight, I came to shop and dine at Little India, a place similar to Chinatown, of course the difference is instead of Chinese you get Indian, the place was awesome, so many great bargains. I also feasted my eyes on those old buildings and structure of the old Brit empire. I finished touring the place at around 7 pm Realizing that MRT's would be jam pack I flagged a cab to take me back home. I got an Indian guy, I was lucky - it would be the continuation of my educational tour of Little India.

Uncle is what they call male senior people here, a term of endearment similar to our 'Manong' back home. This Uncle speaks with a heavy Indian accent but his words comes clear to me. When he found out that I'm Filipino he was quick to respond, "Filipinos are everywhere, they're in HK, Malaysia and Taiwan also, Singapore has a lot of Filipinos and in time they would have a big community here", I could feel the anxiety in his voice but he tried to hide it of course, he doesn't want to disappoint his good looking passenger. He was probably worried that Filipinos could out breed everyone here, I guess reputation precedes us sometimes. Filipinos are probably the most hardy and adaptable race on earth, I told the Uncle that if there would be a nuclear holocaust, I'll bet good money that Filipinos would continue as a race and finally rule the world! (he didn't find the joke funny, no complimentary laughter here). He was probably observing the influx of Filipinos for sometime, you know this cabdrivers are the man on streets (tambay sa canto sa atin) so they see things normal people don't. In the last decade there seems to be a change on the waves of Filipino immigrants here, today Filipinos are no longer confined to being domestic helpers but now joins Singapores work force in different sector. This condition is somehow aided by the island nations openness for foreign skilled workers.

The Taxi man continued to amaze his passenger, he spoke about the difference between Diosdado Macapagal and Marcos, how the economics of the old Macapagal is better and that the reason he lost is that Marcos was the better speaker (like Obama) , by this time he already had me glued to what he was saying, I didn't even know that our leaders ever had good economics, how can a man from here know these things. When asked how did he know all of this he replied, "I have been listening to BBC radio for a long time, I know what's going on even in the South Americas", it seems that the BBC made this guy aware of the what has been happening around the world - he could pass as a political analyst if he ever decides to go that way.

He then continues to lecture the amateur historian in me by discussing Asian economy and what could make the impoverish Asian nations better. He knew that 3rd world countries are victims of corrupt leaders and the so called 'globalization', he said, "the poor does not know what to do because they're not guided, they can farm lands, catch fishes and make crafts but instead of getting better the government and the corporations uses them and give them so little returns, they should instead make corporations out of these people and guide them, further educate them, from here everything will follow, let them succedd in what they do best - and then later on they would begin to go out and in time start new things on their own, let the tax money set up everything for them".

Yes my friends, this is a cab driver speaking. I was thinking if he had just too much free time that he figured out how the world works or he just picked up all this stuff from the BBC radio like what he said - which by the way is not a bad choice at all. I'm sure that all of this talk could be an over simplification of the complex Filipino problem but I get it when he said "help" the people, I mean these days it seems that the government is busy assisting Filipinos  get out of their home country so that they can send remittance and this of course gives them good dollar points, but isn't this an aimless policy? while other nations are trying to keep their homegrown talent home, we are losing ours and nothing really is being done to stop it, the people need the kind of help that would make them do well in their towns, positioning Filipinos to make a living and be at home with their families.

I have to admit that he made sense, as if his theory was not enough he gave me a real story. Some barrio in Malaysia raises worms to sell for medical science he say, and the people became rich because the government funded their small enterprise - the government also protected the small farmers from outside competition by prioritizing the local products over the cheap chinese produce, he again stresses what seems to be his solution to world hunger, "the government need to guide the people not give them charity". He's so certain that this "hand outs" is the surest way to spoil people. Of course, I'm telling myself, we know that already but he then gave me something to think about. "The government in most cases do things for camera not really for the people to be sufficient, the government and the rich people their the ones to blame here, you see this even in America. How come there's only a small percentage of wealthy people? they try to keep it that way because it works for them".

Its no secret that we had been victim of bad leadership. We had leaders killing each other since we claim to have won the first republic in Asia. Now, we get lectured all the time that "we" the people must change but I don't think the people are at fault here. I think the cab driver was right, we need leaders that can show the way, take inititatives, better policies, make conditions favorable so we never have to see daddy go to Saudi. We need programs that really looks after people, uplifting not only lives but morale. Right now, sadly, we are down on everything. While the world is busy making economic adjustments and combating terrorism, what we see on local news is Jocjoc Bolante and some coup de' etat in the senate, its sickening. What has become of our leaders these days?

The Filipino today no longer believes in the government but politician could care less, for them, there is an election that needs to be won. They see government as an enterprise where they can get money, enriching themselves is top priority. No Filipino today takes their government seriously, that's why I can't blame majority of our countrymen who see Filipino politics as a joke and an entertainment similar to the popular telenovelas we see on TV. The Masa is often blamed for not changing for the better, I say we now, what we need is not a change of men really but a change of leaders.

Pan De Manila "Disclaimer"

I have been receiving email's and comment's asking information for the Pan De Manila. I sure would love to provide you with contact information and how to get your franchise but I can not, I am in no way connected to this bread company, I wish I was so I could drop by at any of their outlet and get my bags of goodies. I'm just a fan of their concept and line of products.

I owe people an apology especially those who thought that I work for PDM, I was looking for some information on them too but I don't think they have a corporate website. The post was just my way of thanking them (PDM), they clearly advocate the appreciation of our heritage and what more could be a better representation of that beautiful past than the mighty Pan De Sal!

Food Identity

Being away from the homeland makes you think about a lotta things. In a foreign land is where a Filipino becomes more Filipino. You get to compare things about you, you realize that you are, well, Filipino pala talaga. You get to see yourself in a totally different light.

Identity as they say is what makes you unique from the others. A friend told me that you are ‘what you eat’, it was a funny way to describe the Filipino identity but I understand why he said that. Food would give you a good picture of what a nation is, you can glimpse its past through its plate.

Expats in foreign lands serves homegrown dishes with ‘yabang’, they’re proud of how we make food and how it taste. A tinola here, even if its missing some key recado taste better than a tinola that’s completos recados back home. For some strange reason, eating tinola with fellow Filipinos here makes me feel Filipino, so it must be true that ‘you are what you eat’.

Our food basics are steamed rice and all the viands that always starts with a cooking technique called guisa. The tastiest dishes are of Spanish origin but they have evolved to be Filipino, Filipinize, so to speak. So adobo, sarsiado, mechado, bopiz, tinola, jamon, relleno, embutido, tapa. menudo, pochero, callos, lechon, paella are Filipino, we cease to call this dishes Kastila, we present these us ours, Lutong Pinoy we call it.

We are often told that we are Malay, in fact whenever there is an application form, most Filipinos would still place Malay as their race on the blank space. Some still regard Rizal as the great Malay (is he?), if he is then my mom is French. The foodie question is, why is it that if Malay is our racial origin, why don’t we eat like them? we have the Malay tradition of bi-hoon, cang cung and mee-sua but nothing more, why is it that we never had a taste for mutton? why are we voracious pork eaters?

The Chinese on the other hand they say was already doing business in our shores long before the Kastilaloys came but why is it that our cookery is more Spanish than Chino? are we to think that the natives then only picked the alien Spanish dishes over the flavory familiar Chinese cuisines? are we to believe that we snub the Chinese way of cooking that we seem to enjoy this days?

Stir frying is a cool way to cook our fishies,meaties and veggies (we see this with Martin Yan all the time), a Chinese original but it never became a technique we can call ours. We still go back to the guisado. When it comes to the prehispanic Filipino dishes we could refer to the accounts of Pigaffeta’s gastronomic odyssey with the natives. There’s not much, they did got drunk though, but even that aboriginal drink is a thing of the past for us, we rather entertain our guess with the good ol' cerveza or some fancy European wine at home.

The only logical answer for all this is that our dish became hispanized, we had little choice because we were flooded by all this strange objects and traditions brought by the Spainiards. It is not as if we elected to be influence, we never called them, they came to us. We all end up having this strange appetite for the Espanola cuisine. A strange taste for an Asiano to acquire. When Christmas is around our tradition calls for the quezo de bola or the jamon or the lechon, of course all of this with the cerveza or some delightful vino, or some chocolate to match our versions of mantecadas and pastillas. What seems to be evident is that this Kastila's were the only once who showed us how to culture our food. The bland cookery all of a sudden became sophisticated. What was handed down to us was not only simple Iberian imported recipes but a tradition that we would be identifying with up to this day. Just the other day, we were looking for some cocoa power (the popular brand, cocoa ricoah) when this elderly Chinise looking woman, probably recognizing were Filipinos, looked at us and asked, 'Champorado?'. we are identified with this unique culture, I told myself, 'oh my, she can identify my nationality by what I was about to buy from her'.

That is why I always tell my friends that would ask me about identity or debate me on the topic, that if we want to get rid of that past and revert to the true state of Filipino (I don’t know what that is, Igorot? maybe) we start with ridding ourselves with everything that was created by that past, aside from losing our Hispanic sounding ala Antonio Banderas names, we’ll lose a lot including our cuisine (nooooh!!!). There is no alternative when we speak of identity, that is why countries like Australia or the US would not look back at their precolonial days as the one representing their true identity for if it was the case, they would be anulling the colonial contribution to their advancement both in education, culture and eventual self governance. When they say we that we had no choice, well, I say we deal with the cards that has been dealt to us by this thing called history.

It is this simple logic that should guide us towards embracing our true identity, its the ugly reality for those people who try hard to identify the Filipino identity with the prehispanic tribes of the islands, our soul is not there, we could trace our lineage there but certainly not our character. The thinking that the more aboriginal we make ourselves the more Filipino we become doesn't sound right, actually it sounds stupid. This identity was a process that started when the state was founded, followed by a series of events that started from a Spaniard born in the islands claiming the Filipino as his identity, then to the coming of a generation of educated men that proved that they're equal if not superior to the Spaniard. If we view this process as a retardation of our natural evolution, that all of this are foreign and therefore evil, then we say today that we are indeed retarded, that we are byproducts of a failed process that led to this beautiful identity and this should answer why we are continually moving back wards.

There is no starting over, its not like some subject in college that you flunked and that you can take it up next sem, history is evolution, never static, it waits for no one. Rather than denying it, Hispano culture deserves a second look, acknowledge it and embrace it, there is nothing we can gain from believing that we don't deserve this foreign traditions when we are unconsciously following it, it is our tradition. There’s a real danger in teaching ourselves to hate something we don’t understand, we could end up hating ourselves.

Now back to this foodie identity, make no mistake about it, there is a Filipino cuisine and its alive. Its origins could be hispano but its Filipino no doubt. I remember what Fr. Galende, that nice Augustinian Padre who supervises the lone original Intramuros church, said about all the beautiful century old churches we have in our land, that it is a mistake to call them Spanish because they’re Filipino churches. To say that this are all Spanish culture is to say that there is no Filipino culture, like when we say that because we had great literature written in Spanish, that they are Spanish, not Filipino. All of these belongs to us, this is us, and to tell our children that they were all the creation of the Spaniards is the same as telling them that the Filipinos during those days stayed in the caves and learned nothing.

The same with our food but we should recognize the history behind it. Only when we begin to understand and appreciate we’ll be able to understand how we became Filipinos. This could be an oversimplification of the definition of our identity but if you think of it we really are what we eat.

Now, its morning here. Let me go find some Pan de Sal! ay, wala pala dito.

The Undisputed Queen of Bagtican

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="240" caption="James, Mommy and me"][/caption]

I finally got the chance to visit my step grandma (salamat sa friendster at nagkita kami ng apo niya), affectionately called 'mommy' by the entire Calle Bagtican neighborhood, this great lady has in so many ways showed me what a grandmother's love is, I never had a living grandparent when I was a child. The Magcale was the royal family of Calle Bagtican. Mommy has always look after the neighborhood, she is the 'undisputed queen of Bagtican'.

I was delighted to know that she still remembers me even with her faltering memory as a result of old age, I was more surprised that she can remember the things that we did together. "Gago ka kasi, tinuturuan ka hindi ka nakikinig" she told me yesterday when I boasted that I'm trying to learn Spanish now and that I could speak a little, you see, she did try when I she took me as her step grandson (ampon kuno) but the child that I am, I paid no attention.

It was her who also taught me to take on reading English literature, they once had a roomful of books (stacked as high as 6 feet or more), it was bigger than our elementary school library. I learned last night that all those books were disposed when their place was sold. How I wish I could've acquired them.

She speaks beautiful Spanish, she sings songs and recites poems in pure Castilian. She told me that Maria,  her dearly beloved mother taught her how to be a Filipina, she was a fine lady according to Mommy, a mestiza, who taught her unica hija Spanish, the basics of education, even proper attire for different occasions and how to conduct oneself in public. This sophistication in culture is expected from them then, she was born in Calle Cabildo (in Intramuros), where speaking in Spanish and being a Catholic (a cerrado Catolico) is part of life, (The Irish American father is also a practicing Catholic).



Macati then according to her was home to rich families, who migrated to their vacation homes from their old residential houses in Manila after the war. Part of her childhood was spent in La Paz Iloilo, the provincial farm of his American father, a high ranking US Marine officer. She inherited huge chunks of lands in Pasay (later sold to Chung Hua Chinese academy and portions to what we know now as Cartimar) and Macati.

I  remember when I was a child that I would runaway when I see her coming, she's probably the first white person I've ever met and I was afraid of her, and those piercing green eyes made me hide behind my Nanay's saya. She's always had a beer in hand, she was after all Irish, so this interest in drinking comes naturally I guess. So after buying a bottle of cerveza at our small sari-sari store she would ask Nanay if she could bring me with her, the lady needed a drinking buddy, too bad I was a minor (but she was the one who taught me to drink beer later on!)! my Nanay busy with her store and her small carinderia would not mind of course, I was one less boy  to worry about (we were four in the family all male).

Mommy would engage me in this unending historical discussion that was too much for a child my age (most I never understood, how can I?) like when she explained why the atomic bombs that destroyed the two great cities of Japan was a great idea to end the war, I was in grade3 or 4 (while other kids were probably learning that Jose Rizal's dog is named alipato) Every now and then she would become emotional over certain subjects, "Alam mo ang mga putang inang mga Hapon na iyan walang mga puso iyan, barbaro! animales!". I laughed so hard when I told her that Samuel (my brother) married a Japanese woman, she said,"ay gago iyan si Samuel! hindi ba siya nagaral ng historia? alam niya ba nangyari sa familia ni Omeng (my father)?" she was still the same woman after all this years, it was very Doña Amparoesque!

She would request of me to recite poems in English and of course, talk about Philippine history and what I've learned so far, a subject that I would fall in love later but not during those days, no, I was too young. I was very fortunate, I never got this education in our mababang paaralan (mababa nga!). I was privileged that I had her, she was God sent.

She would romanticize in her lovely stories the Spanish traditions and culture, for her its always about urbanidad and delicadeza and all those Catholic based tradition of the old days, this is the reason why I learned too see it differently than most of  the educated youth whose introduction to history is Lapu-Lapu, the aborigines of the islands and the revolution of Rizal, mine was stories of how beautiful the culture was and why it is important that we embrace it.

She would always tell me, "We are Spanish hijo (of course the correct term is Hispanic but she uses Spanish often maybe because of our status as citizens during the colonial years), right or wrong, if we want to change this truth, we should rewind, back to the days when Magallanes arrived, unite all the tribes and islands and fight the invaders but there was no army, no unity, no nation then. Wala hijo mga Españoles ang nagbigay sa atin ng nacion at unidad sa ayaw man natin o hindi." And I knew that if she would have her way she'll pick the Americans over the Spaniards but she reasons that its history not some social science where theories can be accepted.

Though she was, in my eyes, a hispanist, a lover of that culture, she was still American. Very pro American I should say in her views. Her historical lessons would not be complete without glorifying the her country, "The Americans liberated us, they are our friends hijo, why are we expelling them out?", referring to the on going US Base issue then. "Ingrato iyan mga putang inang politicos na yan, los tontos! nagsipagaral pa naman sa UP, fondo ng mga Americano ang nagbigay sa kanila ng educacion! noong panahon ng Hapon nagsipagtago ang mga elitistang familia ng mga iyan, while Americans like my father fought and drove the Japones away!",  her father was an accomplished career US Marine, he was her true American hero.

Make no mistake about it she's one of the kindest soul one could meet. Mapagbigay masyado, even to the extent of offending some of her family members, "ano ba ang kailangan niya?" she would ask me if a neighbors would show up in her house. "Binigyan ko na iyan locarit na iyan ah", in the end her generous spirit would always overcome her reasons. "vale,vale, heto! por Dios sabihin mo kay __ maghanap ng trabaho!". She was really a Mommy to all. This is why, last night, tears begun to fall when I was told that no one among those she helped, the old Bagtican dwellers even came to visit her for almost a decade, I felt guilty that I was, in a way like them - I could've visited her earlier, when she was stronger. She no longer could see because of an eye condition. Thank heavens that his youngest grandson (James) takes good care of her. He was the one who inherited her intelligence and her generous spirit!

Old age has gotten into her, she use to be so sharp and witty. It was painful for me to see her that way, blind and incapable of moving around, the last time we were together she was eating oysters, smoking and drinking her favorite San Miguel beer (in a bottle, never cans).

When I told her that I will visit her again she said, "Kung ang paa mo ay sipagin sige, kung hindi naman ok lang din." I found it hard to say good bye because of what she whispered to me, "my time is almost up hijo", I did not know how to react. I guess that's life, its that beautiful cycle and we'll all end up like this great lady, in her life she always made sure she shared her blessings, I now feel that this is what we should aim after, that we share more than we take.

I could go on and on with what I learned from this amazing lady, Doña Amparo, I could never thank her enough, words just won't do it but I believe living my life the way she taught me how, with love, honor, gratitude and care for the people around me is the greatest tribute I could ever give her.

Part of History

Part of History

Gemma Cruz Araneta
Many people enjoy reading biographies because there is nothing more engaging than learning about the details of a famous person's life.

To me, when a biography is intertwined with the history, it becomes even more edifying for it makes me realize that our lives, like it or not, are part of the nation's saga. We tend to deny our own protagonic roles and are content to watch other personages, in silence and from a distance, forge our collective destiny with their own vision or lack of it.

Recently, I had a chance to peruse the yet unpublished biography of Mayor Calixto Cataquiz of San Pedro Tunasan, an exemplary public servant whom I had the honor to meet some years ago. Written by Jose Maria Alas and Arnaldo Arnaiz, the biography blends the intriguing history of the town with the rise of Calixto Cataquiz from young businessman to outstanding mayor.

Biographers Alas and Arnaiz relate that it all began: "..Before the Spaniards arrived and created what is now known as the Philippines, Mayor Cataquiz's hometown was then called Tunasan (after the medicinal plant "tunas" which used to grow in abundance by the lakeshore). It was then heavily forested and swampy. Wild boar and deer used to thrive in this area. There was no social organization to speak of that was comparable to pre-Hispanic Manila. Thus the native Tagalogs who used to occupy the area were scattered in the jungles of Tunasan. At the onset of Spanish colonization, Tunasan was then a territory of Tabuco (known today as Cabuyao).

"Township began when the Spaniards, with the initiative and planning of the Franciscans, invited the scattered indigenous people into organizing themselves into a town (reduccion a pueblo, literally "reducing" scattered individuals into a component town) for their own benefit. With this in mind, the Spanish was able to easily disseminate its culture, religion, social organization, and other Western concepts of civilization to the indigenous (and oftentimes warring) tribes throughout the archipelago. Tunasan was then called Tunasancillo by the Spaniards and some of the natives who learned the Castilian language. Years later, Tunasancillo was separated from Tabuco. It became known as San Pedro Tunasan, with Saint Peter as its patron. For many years also, the Jesuits attended to the spiritual, social, economic, and cultural needs of the people."

Often enough, you meet people (specially those in elected positions) who talk and act as if history started with them, absolutely nothing existed before they were sworn into office. Continuity seems to have become a national defficiency so we are cursed to go back to square one in utter disdain of history. Now, a glimpse at the other side of the Cataquiz clan: "During the American period, San Pedro Tunasan became a part of Biñan. Years later, in 1907, it became once more an independent town. But it sold a large part of its territory to nearby Muntinlupa; that part is now known as Barangay Tunasan.

"In 1914, the town simply became known as San Pedro...Thus, a unique mix of native and occidental was the cultural environment imbibed by the people of San Pedro from centuries of Western rule. This hodgepodge culture shaped the San Pedroeño heart and mind throughout the years.... In this unique setting a young Rosa Ramirez was reared. Unlike the Cataquiz clan, Rosa's family was neither rich nor poor...Years later, while on a business trip to nearby Pateros, Rosa of San Pedro, Laguna met her future husband Rodolfo of Unisan, Quezon. Rosa was then observing the itik and balot industry of Pateros; she was planning to pioneer an itikan business in her hometown. Incidentally, Rodolfo was then visiting his brother who was living in the same area."

Mayor Cataquiz told his biographers-- "One of my mother's close friends was actually the sister of my tio's wife, And that's how it all began."--so Alas and Arnaiz wrote: "This same circle of Pateros acquaintances pulled them both towards their first meeting. And upon first glance, each other felt a surge of emotion that both knew immediately would blossom into a partnership that was written only in the stars..." This Tagalog union brought forth on 29 December 1948 the future mayor, of San Pedro, Laguna. And the town was never to be the same again. Entitled A DATE WITH DESTINY: One More Challenge! (The Life Story of San Pedro, Laguna Mayor Calixto R. Cataquiz) this biography promises to be a good read.

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We thank Ms. Gemma Cruz Araneta for featuring our little book in Manila Bulletin. Her popular column 'Landscape' comes out every Tuesday.

Agradecidos por su amabilidad, Sra. Cruz- Araneta.

Feliz Cumpleaños

Papa with his sons, Bernardo y Samuel

Just wanted to greet mi Padre, Señor Bartolome Arnaiz y Rivera, feliz compliaños! Born on August 24, he was named by his parents after San Bartolome, whose feast falls on the 24^th day of the month.

A proud Ilonggo but very humble man, soft spoken and during his younger years, this mestizo was a tall, well-built looker, guapo si Nonoy. He's the hardest working man I have ever known in my life.

I'll never forget how he takes good care of his hair, which is, unfortunately - all gone now. He just turned 72.

Spanish 101

I started taking classes in Spanish at the Instituto Cervantes, the Spanish language school and cultural center, located in Avenida Kalaw. Filipinos are fortunate to have this institution around, it provides everyone the oppurtunity to learn the Castillian language.

I have been reading Spanish text for sometime, although I could discern the meaning behind the words I feel that I am missing some important pieces. I am incapable of effective communication in Spanish. I realized that formal lessons is the right course.

I regret the fact that we removed Spanish subjects in our schools, It is a beautiful language, its part of our history and heritage - something that some popular history scholars would immediately dismiss, out of their nationalistic sentiments and the hate of everything that is Spanish.

The role that this language has played in our development has been annulled by our leaders in the past (both political & educational - an American manipulation) who views it useless. Instead, we make English subjects compulsary for everyone - a foreign language who came to our shores less than a century ago.

We Filipinos owe so much from this language, it enhanced our way of life, gave us Catholicism - our faith, Education and all the wonderful things that was shared to us by Spaniards through this language. It is only fitting that we respect it as part of our culture and history.

Let not the 'historia negra' blind us, the Spanish era was not the dark ages, it was a transitional period were we progressed into a better way of life, having better working communities, civilized, God fearing, educated and in order. We have to start reading our history - the real history.

I'm pleased with what I found out in the Instituto, they have been seeing an increased in enrollment. They credit the call centers demands for Spanish representatives. I hope that in the process, the students would not only use the skill to increase their pay grade but find in themselves the splendor of the Castillian language and how important it was then to our county - and how relevant it is now for us Filipinos. As the Profesor said in one of the class, 'I hope you'll fall in love with the Spanish language just like I did, you'll understand our history and how people was then through this language'.

I've always advocated that our educational system bring back to our schools the Castillian language, if its too much to ask, at least make it an optional subject. Students of history, like me would definitely be interested in taking it up - and all the other Filipinos who understands its true historical value.

According to Pio Andrade, Spanish was widely used althrough out the archipelago. Proof of this is the Chinese Filipinos of Binondo. He uncovered that most spoke fluent Spanish. The 1% theory of the late Bro. Andrew in his book is inaccurate. It was not the language of the aristocrats but of common folks too. Filipinos was widely using the language in different levels of proficiency, most having a working knowledge of how to communicate, in fact in Visayas and Mindanao - it was the language that would be understood when, for example a Cebuano would find trouble understanding a Waray, not the Tagalog.

Americans study French, and some other country still honor their colonial language by studying it. It is still being disputed how widely used the Castillian language was during the Spanish era, some has cited that the Spanish intentionally disallowed its teaching because they do not want the poor Indios to learn Spanish - this is not true, the reason why it was controlled (not totally banned) is to protect the country from the liberals and antimonarchs coming from Spain and the rest of Europe, which was a natural reaction from the Catholic and Spanish hierarchy.

They wanted to limit books and all the other types of communication that could have subversive liberal contents. They fear that it could create a movement in the islands that would seek to overthrow the Spanish leadership.

In the end, the revoution did took place. If it was any consolation, it was the proof that Filipinos, was the most educated Asian of his time - thanks to the Spanish language.

Why Learn Spanish then?

Here are some exlanation Gerald Erichsen of About.com provided:

Better understanding of English: Much of the vocabulary of English has Latin origins, much of which came to English by way of French. Since Spanish is also a Latin language, you will find as you study Spanish that you have a better understanding of your native vocabulary. Similarly, both Spanish and English share Indo-European roots, so their grammars are similar. There is perhaps no more effective way to learn English grammar than by studying the grammar of another language, for the study forces you to think about how your language is structured. It's not unusual, for example, to gain an understanding of English verbs' tenses and moods by learning how those verbs are used in Spanish.

Knowing your neighbors: Not all that many years ago, the Spanish-speaking population of the United States was confined to the Mexican border states, Florida and New York City. But no more. Even where I live, less than 100 kilometers from the Canadian border, there are Spanish-speaking people living on the same street as I do. Knowing Spanish has proven invaluable in speaking with other residents of my town who don't know English.

Travel: Yes, it is perfectly possible to visit Mexico, Spain and even Ecuatorial Guinea without speaking a word of Spanish. But it isn't nearly half as much fun. I remember about two decades ago — when my Spanish was much less adequate than it is today — when I met some mariachis on top of one of the pyramids near Mexico City. Because I spoke (albeit limited) Spanish, they wrote down the words for me so I could sing along. It turned out to be one of my most memorable travel experiences, and one unlike what most tourists have the opportunity to enjoy. Time and time again while traveling in Mexico, Central America and South America I have had doors opened to me simply because I speak Spanish, allowing me to see and do things that many other visitors do not.

Cultural understanding: While most of us can't hope to learn the languages of more than one or two cultures other than that of our own, those that we can learn help us to learn how other people learn and think. When I read Latin American or Spanish newspapers, for example, I often find that I gain a sense of how other people think and feel, a way that is different than my own. Spanish also offers a wealth of literature, both modern and traditional.

Learning other languages: If you can learn Spanish, you'll have a head start in learning the other Latin-based languages such as French and Italian. And it will even help you learn Russian and German, since they too have Indo-European roots and have some characteristics (such as gender and extensive conjugation) that are present in Spanish but not English. And I wouldn't be surprised if learning Spanish might even help you learn Japanese or any other non-Indo-European language, since intensive learning the structure of a language can give you a reference point for learning others.

Fire in Carriedo and an old picture never found

I took some photos of the Carriedo fire (Avenida Rizal corner Bustos), which destroyed the Good Earth store. There was black smoke all over the place. I heard that the LRT coaches were stranded that day, electricity in the vicinity gone for a few hours, traffic re -routed but I was surprised that few people minded the chaos. Stores were open surrounding its area, people were walking and shopping - it is as if there was no danger present from the fire and the thick black smoke.

Only in the Philippines!

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="356" caption="Look at the family on the right side (pedicab), enjoying their moments amidst the raging fire less than a block away!"][/caption]

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="354" caption="Good Earth! on Fire!"][/caption]

°°°°°°

I was walking the streets of Manila the day when this fire took place, I don't have much to do lately but study and treat myself with this leisurely walks. Its good exercise you know.

The purpose of this particular trip was to look for a photo studio where my father had a picture of him in an Americana suit, he was still a binata when it was taken. He was a handsome mestizo (I can't figure out why I am not!) and he had this show business aura, he was a looker! This was probably the reason why the studio owner used his photo as a display (without his permission!). So the first thing you would notice when you enter this shop is his blown up picture, ala Pancho Magalona.

Unfortunately, due to bad memory he cannot name the place, he gave me a big area to cover, but that's cool with me since I love to walk anyways. There was this one place near Quaipo church, but that was not it - we had a portrait there as a family.

He only found out about this from a relative. He never saw it personally. Inspired by this story, I tried looking for the photo studio around Carriedo, Sta. Cruz and Quiapo area; unfortunately I did not find it. It was later that I realized that this old studios are probably been out of business for sometime due to the new technology of digital photography or its possible that they've converted their business to one. Throwing away the old photos that once decorated their small shops.

Things I do to satisfy my cravings for the past!

Dreams of America

I was reading the opinion section of Philippine Star last Saturday. My day of reading would not be complete without Alejandro Roces' Roses and Thorns. One of my favorite commentary in print. His article was entitled, The great US experiment - the Philippines. Although I happen to disagree with what was written, I was even more surprised by the comments when I scrolled down.

Bunch of people were talking about the good years we had with the US, and how we could have benefit as a nation if we were an American state - that we needed them, one even went far as saying that we should lobby to be part of the states today. When I signed in, and shared my view of how far fetch their ideas were, they made jokes out of it, in fairness to them they were funny.


"The Forbidden Book"

It's unfortunate that some of our young people would even spend time dreaming about the this so called 'land of opportunity'. It's a clear sign of desperate times, aspiring that we could go back in Americas good graces, that they could retake their prodigal son and help it regain past glory.

I'm reminded of the "federalistas" during the turn of the century, when America cut short Aguinaldo's republic before it could even legitimize its existence. When US was already in power, this party was so eager to join the American states that they shamelessly threw themselves at the feet of the new rulers, untiringly lobbying for the poor Philippines to be assimilated to the great empire, to be with the great states in the mainland, only to find out that we were unwanted, that US does not need this country to be theirs, only its resources and its strategic location.

I love reading old notes, it reminds me of the reality - how we were treated as a people, like this one from Senator Albert Beveridge of Indiana in 1900, his take on Filipinos, ''not of a self-governing race . . .. Savage blood, Oriental blood, Malay blood, Spanish example -- are these the elements of self-government?''

It was said that imperialism is always, racist. I think with that kind of statement from an American leader. It is.

American regards themselves for converting us to Christianity, when we already are Christians, thanks to Catholicism. We have stronger Christian values and beliefs than them when they came, that I am sure.

We are all happy to recall our deep relationship with the US, but we find it hard (almost impossible in most cases) to even visit relatives in the US mainland when we want to, while Japan, who once attacked them, killing thousands, not counting their soldiers who fought in the Pacific - enjoys the luxury of a pass, without restrictions. Its high time that we accept that America is a friend, when it can find good benefit, but if you're the third world nation, the sick ol' man of Asia, reminding them of history is fruitless.

I've come full circle in my political history studies; I have been an admirer as a young man of the American ideals for this nation of ours. Later on, when further study has shown that, the ideals that I once admired are but a façade of a more intricate plan, that of an ambition of an imperialistic super power, the "large policy" as it was called by its leaders.

And like Aguinaldo and his men, many people have been fooled by the cunning of the American leaders. For they have been after this lands long before the revolution has even begun, only using it to further their advance here and in the region, their real purpose can be understood by this letter of John Hay to his friend Theodore Roosevelt, referring to the war with Spain, "a splendid little war, begun with the highest motives, carried on with magnificent intelligence and spirit, favored by that Fortune which loves the brave."

Father Galende and his wonderful books

I caught up with Fr. Galende here, I told him that I wanted his autograph but I can't afford his books! promising once I saved enough money I'll get a copy and look for him.

He said with a big smile, "you can always pay me in installments!"

He then told me that he'll sign a copy of mine in a heartbeat, anytime!

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The PHILIPPINE CHURCH FACADE, is such fine book, especially for those who are big fans of baroque churches and old architecture in the land. It contains invaluable background information of when and how this beautiful churches was founded.

One of the books photographer, a blogmate here in the site, is the creator of the blogsite, simbahan.net - great photo guy, Estan. You gotta see his works to admire it.

Fr. Galende has spoke about a second volume for the FACADE's, since there are still hundreds of old churches out there that was not covered in his book. He also hinted working on a feature book on "retablos", now that would be an interesting one.

For those who is not familiar with Fr. Pedro Galende, aside from being an author and an Augustinian priest (his other book "Angels of Stone"), he is currently the director of the San Augustin Museum, I believe he's been a Philippine resident for more than two decade now, I just read very recently that he has an MA in English and a PHd in Philo. He speaks perfect english!

One of the people I truly admire, staunch defender of our Filipino heritage, very active in the promotion and of the preservation of cultural and heritage sites. He would always insist to call the style of this old churches as Filipino not Spanish or Mexican, like the other books would put it. For him this creation are uniquely Filipino.

His advocacy is truly inspiring, whenever he speaks about our culture & heritage, he would always do so by using "our", addressing it as one of us. He has embraced our nation as if it was his, we are lucky to have this guy around.

Godfather for the second time around

I would like to thank my friend, JJ and his charming wife, Maybelle for allowing me to be one of the godfather of their little princess, Zoë Isabel.

Obviously, a Catholic, I have a soft spot when it comes to this kind of events. Its a special one since it's a sacrament, a very traditional rite that I always cherish for it reminds me of the love and compassion of our Lord.

This marks the day that their child has entered the Catholic faith and I'm proud that I was part of it all. May it be a fruitful journey for this beautiful child of theirs.

It was unusually warm for an afternoon at this time of the year, the sun was up but it was cloudy. This is the first time I visited this beautiful church of St. James, so there was a lot of things new to me.



The baptismal rite was solemn and was very meaningful, in life and in spirit, as it was discussed during the seminar for the parents. Being a godfather is an experience since its an obligation as a follower of the church, I've been taught to held it seriously by my parents - my Nanay would always say prayers for her inaanaks during mass, I guess that compensates on her inability to give monetary gifts during Christmas time! - Zoë would always be in my prayers from now on, just like my Nanay - it would be my way of compensation!

There was a lovely diner at a posh restaurant in Alabang, Poquito I believe was the name - they serve traditional Spanish cuisine, very good serving. The meal was great! It was heavy - but I like it that way.

Welcome to the Catholic fold, Zoë!

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I'm really poor at finding directions, and I did for awhile got lost trying to find the church of St. James in Ayala Alabang.

The Village has very good security, well if you have high profile people living inside you must have good people manning the watchtower. I heard Pres. Ramos lives there.

Entering Ayala Alabang can be an intimidating experience, I'm just not used to seeing huge houses with multiple cars on the garage. The only people you see walking around in Ayala Alabang are maids who walks those expensive dogs, if not that, residents who seems to struggle trying to get fit by jogging and biking with their ipod's on.

The rich people are always inside - their houses or their expensive cars, they could be seen outside, but one should go to the Ayala Town Center. My trip here displayed before my eyes a world of difference from the usual scenes of shoebox houses and squatter neighborhoods I pass by whenever I drive to the office.

Tinola in my mind

When I was a kid growing up, tinola was always served in the weekends. If its not it, some dish with a good, hearty ‘sabaw' - Our nanay believes this makes children grow stronger and wise (I'm not sure where she got this) whenever such treats is served, sabaw abounds.

This is the highlight of our weekends, mga luto ng Nanay. Nothing beats a good meal with your bully brothers! Being the youngest, my brother's would take advantage, they would always get the chunky parts while I, gets the small portions, worst, the neck part!

When I was in high school I read about tinola in the Noli, I became more fascinated about this very Filipino dish. Rizal was obviously drooling over it while he was writing the chapter about Tiago's famous diner party. Poor hero. Here's how the mighty tinola played its part in Rizal's masterpiece.

Capitan Tiago ordered tinola served. It was a dish which Ibarra had not eaten in a long time because of his extended stay in Europe. Tinola contains chicken, white squash and broth.

Table conversation covered where Ibarra went (Northern Europe, Germany and Russian Poland), as well as newsworthy items learned by Ibarra: "...the prosperity or the misery of a people is in direct proportion to its liberties or concerns, and consequently to the sacrifices or selfishness of its ancestors."

Padre Damaso belittled Ibarra's trips abroad saying that these were useless because what Ibarra learned could be also known without having to travel extensively.

Instead of arguing with the friar, Ibarra left after graciously excusing himself from the crowd. Capitan Tiago tried to stop him, saying that Maria Clara was coming soon, but Ibarra still left. Teniente Guevara followed him.

One of the guests (a red-haired writer named Laruja) present will later write an article about how tinola can ruin a feast and why indios should not be allowed to read or travel outside the Philippines.

Pepe can't help but mention that his character in the book, like him, has not tasted this dish because of his faraway travels in Europe. When your far, I guess your reminded how good Filipino cuisine is. Good thing nowadays, Filipino restaurants and groceries are everywhere.

It an old Spanish recipe (some say its Malay but I doubt it), adopted by us. This chicken stew have different versions. Depending on where you are, taste and ingredients used varies. I prefer ‘malunggay' over the ‘dahong sili', the ‘chayote' than ‘papaya'. Some versions includes chicken livers, but that I don't like.

Its not easy to define how it taste, gingery? Maybe.

Last week, marks a breakthrough. Mhaan cooked, tinola! In my standards, I gave it an A rating. It was almost perfect! At least for me. But being a big fan of this dish, I have good credentials to critique it! I wonder how Rizal prefers his tinola.

What does a street name look like?

I was then in grade school when my parents decided to move to Makati from Manila. I was old enough to remember, the hardships made it even more unforgettable. We live in a baranggay called San Antonio, a street named Bagtican. The town was made popular because Mayor Binay was one of its citizens. Almost all of the streets in the area are named after indigenous trees, with the exception of Estrella (the former Mayor) and St. Paul, one of Makati's patron saints.

Bagtican, was an old street, our place was within the vicinity of the Paulinian lands, where there was a four-storey library & bookstore, a simple but lovely chapel and a seminary, where my brothers once attended.

We lived across the Magcale's, a well-known family in the area, rich and generous, they have befriended even the poorest tenants of the calle, almost all of the Magcales' children at some point became tv actors, like their dad. Their household left a lasting mark on me because it has an enormous book collection that was made available to me by Señora Amparo, the matriarch of the family; the whole neighborhood affectionately calls her Mommy.

We had an alatiris tree in front of our house, a fruit tree that was brought to our shores by the friars, renowned for its sweet marble sized fruit, magnate for flies and bats who enjoys consuming its ripe figs. I love eating those cherry like fruit until my stomach hurts, you see even as a child, I already took interest in eating. There was a time that trees do grow in Makati, now everything are concrete pavements, no one bothers to plant trees anymore. Makati has changed especially those small barrios, near the Ayala area.

When I was a kid, I was told that Bagtican (latin Shorea & Parashorea) is a tree. But when I ask people if they have seen one, they would tell me that it can only be found in the high mountains. Since then, I have this strong urge to see and touch one.



Last Saturday, I did some hiking at the foot of Maquiling entering it through the Botanical garden area of UP. It would not be long that I would be acquainted with a Bagtican tree; it was so high that touches the clouds up above. What a majestic looking tree! They are known for their resistance against strong winds and a lumber that is often used for joinery.

It is also known as White Lauan, with its natural color of pale to light red it is widespread in our country. The name Bagtican could have originated from Teak, another tree of a large deciduous family. It is know locally as Teka or Tekka, its Malayan name, far superior I was told than Bagtican as wood.

When we moved to Bagtican the house was the typical post American design and creation, we later on lost the land against its eventual owner Vic Chua. It is now an ‘imprenta', printing stuff I don't know what, the area is ugly. With its high iron gates, noisy printing machines, greased pavements, I could hardly recognize that this was the place where I spent most of my childhood years.

There's always history behind everything, every name and every place. I love digging the one's that I have come across with personally - its an addiction, I've got to find the meaning behind things I don't know.

This strange desire has made me knowledgeable of my environment, people should start researching and getting to know the story behind their local places - the more local the better, it is a fascinating interest, who knows you might stumble upon something better than what a tree looks like.