Monday, July 31, 2006
FEEDBACK FROM ANNIE RE: DR. BUGAYONG
Sunday, July 30, 2006
MY FIRST BALIKBAYAN TRIP IN 1988
The photos below were taken during my very FIRST Balikbayan trip, 12 years after I left Asingan. This was February-March, 1988. There were 5 of us in this trip: myself, Miguelita, Oliver my first born, then Michelle and Bernadette. Oliver was 15 yrs. old, Michelle was 14 and Berna was 11. On Feb. 18, Berna celebrated her 12th birthday at the Social Hall of the Luciano Millan High School.
A week before our return to Canada, I came across my old high school classmates: Rudy Manuel, Teofilo Bugayong, MD, Roger Agpaoa, Gregorio Velasco ( God bless his soul ), Juan Sindayen and Leopoldo del Rio. I would be meeting others in subsequent trips, but not this one..
Then, as a sort of get together, we had a picnic at the farm of my kumpare Rudy Manuel. It was a happy time as shown by the photos. A second picnic was also held at a farm in Baro. We had to cross a river and then we spent the whole day in a nipa hut surrounded by Camachile trees. Several photos were taken and some of them will be featured in future entries.
That trip took place 18 years ago. It was the happiest so far because all the family joined the trip. I never thought they would be sleeping in the old house where I grew up. THey had such funny remarks and interesting experiences visiting Manila, Urdaneta, Dagupan, Lingayen and Baguio City. Unfortunately, my Mom had already the Alzeimer's but my dad was still okay. It was a really emotional trip and saying goodbye at the end of it was rough.---#
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Naked Women Leave Police Speechless
TIRANA (Reuters) - Albanian police were speechless when around 30 Scandinavian women went topless, shocking local bathers and causing an uproar in an Albanian beach resort.
"Police only watched ... they could not approach the tourists because they spoke no English," a local newspaper in the southern Albania coastal town of Sarande said.
Albanian mothers dragged their children away and police received a barrage of complaints over the Scandinavian tourists.
The Scandinavians left after two hours when their guide was informed that nude bathing was banned on public beaches. Nudity and topless bathing are still taboo in the poor Balkan country. 07/28/06 10:11 ET
****
Why don't they come to Ontario? It is legal to go topless in here even in downtown Toronto. But I haven't seen any woman yet who took advantage of this law, even during this heat spell. And if you like to take off everything, there is a nudist Island not far off from Toronto's Harbourfront.
See you there? Bring some beer..JUST KIDDING!!!!
FEEDBACKS ON SERIES RE: PANGASINAN HISTORY
Thanks, Prof. for this brilliant, fascinating series on our local history.
Where were you when I needed you for that demo teaching I had to do to get
a spot as History teacher at DWA?
Ben Soloria
Virginia
******************
Mr. Costes,
I have to thank you for your updates and especially the recent entries about
Philippine history. I have always been a history buff; I read many stories
and texts that I could get my hands on... even when I wasn't asked to by
educators. I have always taken interest in flags and studied historical
maps, all for my own interest. So I really do devour each entry that you
send when I can get the chance to read them.
Knowing the long history of the Philippines... the good, the bad, and the
ugly... has only increased my interest in your great and storied homeland.
Please keep the updates and photos coming! I am an eager pupil in your
history class, Mr. Costes. Hahaha.
Looking forward to seeing you and Mrs. Costes soon. I'm sorry to say that
it's a busy summer for me, as I'm sure that it is for you. Hope all is
well.
--Bartlett
Mike Batlett is a good family friend from Toronto.
*****
Next, I will relate the story of the SANTA IGLESIA ( Spanish for the Holy Church ) which rose from the ashes of the GUARDIAS DE HONOR. Most Filipinos ( both here and back home ) are Religious what with the 3 centuries of Catholicism taught to us by the Spanish missionaries. But when some people become too religious about a faith which they do not take seriously, then trouble starts.
The story of the SANTA IGLESIA had many qualities of a regional folk epic. Yes, there will be blood, a little sex and lots of violence : the very elements that makes a movie interesting.
So join us!!
Vic
**********
Friday, July 28, 2006
ABOUT STA ANA...
Name: Albert Manuel
Town_City: Markham Ontario
EmailAddress:
Remote Name: 207.61.222.218
Date: Friday, July 28, 2006
This is just to make some things clear to our town mates. Sta Ana is divided into two sectors .The northern sector is a sitio of San Vicente San Manuel and the southern sector is part of barrio Guzon which is comprise of different sitios like San Andres Bato and a place they call Surong.To ninong Vic kumusta po. I am on this site every morning and I learn a lot about Pangasinan.To Archie pls. say hi to nana Auring from my dad her pare Rudy. Thanks and good day every one.
****
Its my first time to hear re: Barrio Guzon .. George was once my student at the Rizal Academy a long time ago. I guess this Barrio was named after the whole family .. So what you are saying ( from your posting ) is that Sta. Ana is not really a barrio of Asingan..Are you also saying that San Manuel has its own San Vicente, or is that a part of the San Vicente which belongs to Asingan?..Maybe when you go home on December, you can request for an updated copy of of Asingan's map..or maybe just a simple line drawing to show the barrio ( and sitio ) bounderies..
Okay Albert, hope you will update us on your coming reunion..!
Vic
**********
Some postings from the Pang.Org..for Asinganians
Name: Sammy
Town_City: Asingan/Texas
EmailAddress:
Remote Name: 72.178.165.214
Date: Friday, July 28, 2006
To Arsenio: Yes i've eaten "ararawan" too. I like the small ones. Here are some of the foods i really long to eat. Bawat kain ay parang bibitayin na kinabukasan. Almost every morning ay kumakain ako nang binobudan (fermented rice). I like it very much that hinahanap- hanap ko tuwing umaga. It fills good in the tummy. Also all sorts of kakanin e.g. suman na nabalot sa dahon nang niyog, tupig na gawa pa sa Manaoag, linatian,kineled atbp. sa mga gulay naman ay talaga namang halos bilhin ko na lahat ang madaanan ko kagaya nang bagbagkong, bunga nang singkamas, saluyot, ampalaya, kang-kong (galing sa fish pond), sabong ti kalabasa, pultong, etc. Sa mga isda naman ay mga live tilapia (yan ang uso ngayon), gg, bonoan bangus ( 90 pesos/kilo, about 2 to 3 pieces). malaga (350/kilo),and some freshwater fish like dalag, paltat). I was lucky the mango season hasn't ended yet. As we all know, Pangasinan produces the sweetest mango in the world.You eat the ripe mango and suman and you're solve na. I was able to buy some chico on my way to Manaoag. Bihira na ang prutas na ito that i really have to buy some extra for the following day. Avocado is very inexpensive at talaga namang ito yong malagkit ang laman. Pinya is abundant too but i dont have craving for it coz i know mahirap madigest ito.Those are the things that we really missed here. I gained 5 pounds inspite of the fact that i was hospitalized for obvious reason. It's your turn to share stories when you go home for vacation.
Name: Vic
Town_City: to Archie
EmailAddress:
Remote Name: 64.12.116.133
Date: Friday, July 28, 2006
So you frequented the backyard too?..Can't blame you, there were really lots of fruit trees for climbing there..Besides it was only Flor who was there, his parents were in Caloocan most of the time. Yes, I learned he succumbed from heart attack; I was already abroad then. I think his family was related to Apo Ferdinand Marcos. There was a rumour that he slept there one day during the war..We are never sure whether this is true or not..Maybe. Ex Pres. FVR and Apo Ferdie were also cousins, remember? Going back to Flor de Vera, we went to visit their property also in Urbiztondo: they have a cacao plantation there and the ground floor of the house smelled like Hersheys Cocoa !.They were converting the Cacao fruits into cocoa powder.Had real chocolate drink for breakfast the next day...Lots of good memories with Flor..may God bless his soul!
Name: Archie/ARsenio C. Macanas
Town_City: Cabincolan/PobWest./Sandiego/L.A.
EmailAddress: To Albert, Sam and Manong Vic...
Remote Name: 69.227.200.22
Date: Friday, July 28, 2006
To Albert Manuel, Don’t worry she’ll reach your greetings. She’ll be here in San Diego tomorrow together with my wife coming from Los Angeles for the wedding of Juan Pascua Jr. (the eldest son of Mr. Johnny Pascua and Madam Fely Victorino) and Daddette Guerrero (the eldest daughter of Mr. Fidel Guerreo and Madam Elvie Manipon) both of the family from Poblacion West Asingan. Please accept our warmth greetings and congratulation both of you Juan Jr. and Dadette. Albert, thanks for the information and keep posting. To Manong Vic… I know Manong Florante and her Aunt Menang the Vinegar Maker. Yeah, you beat that’s the best Vinegar in town. I heard Manong Florante and her Aunt Menang are already passed, sad to hear that. I have lots of good memories from their backyard, That was our hide and seek playground with free fruits snacks. We kids love to play to that backyard and who wouldn’t? Their backyard was like a paradise a huge piece of property with full of fruit trees, huh! Well, those days can’t stop my self to be fond of. To Sammy… Lucky you, that was my fav too (PILAT) cooked with Nana Menang Venigar and Soy Sauce called Adobo. How about the adobong ara-rawan? Whew! I like that one too. Gusto ko nang umuwi, See you na lang sa December, if god’s permit.
Name: Vic
Town_City:
EmailAddress:
Remote Name: 152.163.100.133
Date: Friday, July 28, 2006
For my ina anak, Albert..I am fine thank, you..Hope you and your family as well as your Mom and Dad are okay..Am thinking of all of you esp. when I started writing stories about Sta. Ana..Thanks for your info re: this barrio..keep on posting some facts which Asinganians could never read anywhere else!
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
For Longwaybye:MORE MANILA MEMORIES
Death and taxes..these are the only two sure things in this world. Each morning, when my wife and I sit down for breakfast, we say grace not only for the food we eat but for another day.."Hey, we are still here, another 24 hours is added to our account.." we sometimes kid ourselves since most of our friends are not here anymore..There must be a reason : Unfinished business?
We have a family plot in Asingan. Our house in Toronto is 2 blocks away from 3 cemetery plots!Nothing is more convenient! Nothing wrong or morbid re: this topic. It is part of being born.
In what part of Pangasinan are you residing, my friend? When my wife retires, then our life would change. Like some of my townmates, it will be 6 months in the Philippines, 6 months in Toronto.
I still love the Philippines. Manila is still the city for me, but it is the Old Manila that is perpetually in my mind's eye. I love Avenida, Escolta, Luneta, Divisoria. The street I hate the most is Quezon Blvd. because some crooks ripped me off there several times during my first year Collge at UST.
One time I was walking along Quezon Blvd from Recto heading to Quiapo. It was such a pleasant, nice walk..until a guy met me and started shooting several photos of me. Made me feel like a celebrity. Or so I thought. Why would he take pictures?
Then he took out some claim receipts and said "you can claim your photos at the store mentioned here..Now give me some deposit please..!"
"Deposit?? I did not ask you to take my photos?"
But the hustler did not let go of me, started to threaten me, and because I was a neophyte in Manila, I had to fork over my last 2 pesos. I had enough change to bring me back to my boarding house..
Another time, I dropped by a Quiapo barbershop. The haircut was only 1 peso. "Haircut please" The barber who looked strong and husky wrapped the white sheet around me and started to do his thing..The haircut was done, then he never stopped there..He proceeded to give me a scalp massage, then facial massage and some other stuff. Then he was finished and I asked how much I owe him.."5 pesos, sir.." and he pointed to me the sign which tabulated the treatments and corresponding payments. The crook knew his arithmetic. I did not ask him to stop at that time because I was curious at what he was doing..Well, curiosity kills the cat or would cost an unwary provinciano his lastmoney..Running away flashed into my mind, but you know how thick the crowd in Quiapo is. Besides I was seated in the farthest seat inside and 4 barbers were there forming a gauntlet with sharp scissors in their hands..I chalked the incident to costly experience and I never told my boardmates the incident otherwise they will be laughing their butts off for a week---at my expense!
Thank you for sharing the story about your friend from the south. Did she speak with the southern accent too? I guess it is never too late to start anew..On the other hand, being free again is sometimes heaven on earth: one can do the things he/she wants to do..And I am sure your family in the Philippines are still around for reunions and holidays..My sister who became a widow after 5 years of happy marriage also say the same thing: she likes her freedom above anything else!---#
Saturday, July 22, 2006
MORE COMMENTS FROM LONGWAYBYE
Have you thought of your funeral? Just being sentimental...
Would you live the last days of your life in canada?
I thought of living and retiring in the US too. And I have a very good lady friend there, in the southern part, one that Im very fond of, we almost became lovers, but since I was raised in a monogamous culture, it didnt feel right to be having two loved ones of the heart. We were the best of friends. When my wife died, I could have married her, but our friendship had become so deep it was too precious to change.
God i miss her. she is a typical lady of the Bible-belt area, vocally christian, but not that fanatic. she couldnt convert me. Hehe
I feel guilty, because she never married. But she will always be that busy woman, always helping at her church, tending her flowers at home, and drinking sweet tea, a tea which is nothing but super sugar-saturated tea.
I wish we never die....
Comment from longwaybye - 21/07/06 8:59 PM
But I think he grew up in Manila.
Avenida is undergoing clean-up these days, but of course it's never the same. I would always "see" Avenida, manila as a whole,the same way when I was there during college.
I really wish time will slow down, or rewind a little bit. Funny how we live in our memories, usually the childhood peaking at college, and the time after that are not as striking and exciting. The worries of family and responsibility?
Yes i do feel a certain pride when Timog cotabato is played, and I am evenprouder when I can sing it in the Ilonggo version, Ilonggo being the major language in Koronadal.
And tears would be forming in my eyes, as I walk Luneta, Sta Cruz, the ermita, malate area, and really, as Jose Mari Chan's song goes (two of them) There's no rewinding, no replay....Life's a constant change, the friends we know, we meet along the way....too soon the times we share form part of yesterday...
Comment from longwaybye - 21/07/06 8:44 PM
There are also areas there, I cant remember but surely Id recognize it when I hear it. And during those times, they were a no man's land. Not only because of the firefights, but of bandits, and you know of the never ending chicken thing? When you run over a chicken, and you because you are a good man, stop and offer to pay for it, the reply would be a million pesos. Why? because that chicken will lay eggs, the eggs will grow to chickens, then so on, till the value would be 1 million, suwerte ka pa dahil hanggang nth generation lang singil nila. It was true in those days. For laughing out loud.
But all in all, Mindanao was a very happy memorable place for me, along with friends and classmates, both muslims and christians. I left it when I went to manila for college. And Ive never again lived there for more than 4 months straight. But with the cellfones nowadays, it's just like a walk to downtown.
Comment from longwaybye - 21/07/06 8:30 PM
Friday, July 21, 2006
PHOTOS SHARED BY MARIANNE CANO
Marianne is the daughter of our Kababayan Annie Castillo Cano. She is now residing in Texas. These shots were taken in a picturesque spot called Tamasopo, San Luis Potosi ,Mexico.
(captions written by Marianne )
Good news from Mindanao.
the site of many clashes between government forces and Moro rebels, are nowhere to be found.
transformed into a plantation for various crops such as vegetables, fruits, rice, corn, coconut, coffee,
marang, watermelons, banana, pumpkins, radish, string beans and tomatoes.
Central Mindanao where people can freely roam.
the Philippine Army and its support contingent, the 54th Engineering Battalion.
farmers harvesting their crops all-year round.
lined with trading shops and houses built near coconut farms.
way while driving the 15-kilometer stretch of the Narciso Ramos highway.
gun battle with Moro fighters, signaling its reversion to government control from being the nerve center
of MILF guerrilla forces in Mindanao the past three decades.
starting with the resumption of peace talks with the MILF.
MILF over relief and rehabilitation undertakings in the war-torn area.
citizens.
leader Huron Maslog in the Maguindanaon dialect.
because it contributed much to the improvement of our place in terms of peace and security," he added.
Fisheries–Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
For Longwaybye: AVENIDA RIZAL
"Ako'y isinilang sa isang bayan ng Cotabato,
Kasing gulo ng tao, Kasing gulo ng mundo
Dahil di magkasundo sa relihiyon at prinsipiyo
Nagkagulo..."
I was born in a town in Cotabato
Which is so troublesome, like people
Which is so troublesome, like the world
Because they don't agree on religion
And principles
Now there is trouble...
(translation by the editor)
I am sorry to hear that the singer of the group is already gone, one of the things I did not hear about while I am here in Canada earning for a living. I have that song in a CD BEST OF PINOY FOLK SONG featuring songs by Freddie Aguilar and the group ASIN. Now I can never hear the song the same way again. It is a plaintive cry about the mess which is going on, not only in the Philippines but in the whole world as well. It reverberates the same sentiment in another folk singer's work (Bob Dylan ) when he wrote "When will it ever end? When will it ever end.."
When I went home for the first time after 12 years, one of the first joints I hit was National's at Avenida. I was nostalgic for this place because I used to visit it to browse through their books ( and to enjoy their air conditioning ) especially after school. They had a music section selling audio tapes ( no CDs yet in 1988 ) and when I approached the counter, a pretty salesgirl asked me what songs I wanted.I guessed the local sales girls here are able to spot a balikbayan even at 40 paces. She placed a pile of audio tapes on the counter: all performed by old timers like Ruben Tagalog, Sylvia la Torre, etc. ASIN'S MGA AWITIN NG BAYAN KONG PILIPINAS * was one of them. Undoubtedly, I included the title with the rest of the 15 tapes I bought that afternoon. The salesgirl smiled so nicely asking me to come back. I wanted to, but then "I still have miles to go and promises to keep.." But I did promise her I will be back.
That afternoon, I was a College student all over again. I dropped by Alemar's, Goodwill, then crossed the Avenida to visit Raon ( one favorite spot because of the stereos and records ). I was looking for those LUMPIA** STANDS that sold the rolls for 50 centavos and a glass of coke for 25 centavos..I know there were lots of them in the intersection of Raon and Quezon Blvd. But..didn't see them. I also wanted to visit those surplus stores ( there were a couple at Quezon Blvd when I was a students ).. I loved looking at the titles of those 78 rpm records which were stacked so high and sold so cheap. I enjoyed checking the titles under a light bulb unmindful of the pedestrians and people checking out what's available in those stores..Alas, those stores were gone too.
What can we do? Things change. There is one unchanging law, according to one writer. And that is "things will always change."---#
* SONGS OF MY COUNTRY, THE PHILIPPINES
** EGG ROLLS
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Thursday, July 20, 2006
More of Longwaybye's feedback re: Mindanao
New recruits go there, because Mindanao has got 3 rebel groups. PMA grads who want faster promotion go to combat there. those who dont want to risk, marry after graduation and use it as an excuse to get a job in Luzon.
The boyfriend of my 1st girlfriend's roommate,back in college, did just that.
By the way, I was born in that area of Mindanao immortalized in the Asin song " Timog Cotabato", funny that the lead singer Saro banares met his death there, a victim of senseless murder, long after the Moro-Christian wars ended.
About Philippine History
Philippine History lately had started to fascinate me. Maybe it is because when I was still in Elementary then High School, I never listened much to our History teacher. Especially if the teacher is not a good story teller..Most of the time when this subject started, my mind was pre occupied with what I will do with my friends after the class. Some of my classmates had the same attitude: "Who cares about Philippine History? It is done, finished, kaput..!" Was I sadly mistaken. Philippine History is still going on as I type these computer keys..
Now I am trying to catch up with those facts and events which made the Philippines what it is today. You may love the country or you may hate the country..but one thing for sure: YOU WILL NEVER, NEVER FORGET OUR COUNTRY...
This is the idea of a song by THE SANDPIPERS ( a '60s group ) ..One of the narrative lines said: "It is the dream of every man to go back to the country where they were born...."
Before closing this entry, I want to pay tribute to Mr. Gil Santilla from Bantog. He was my high school teacher, a good history teacher. He was also a terrific story teller---#
For Longwaybye
Mindanao is one part of the country that I may visit next time I come home. When I was still young, ( and even when I was already about to leave our native land ) there were lots of stories I heard about it..
They say that new Army recruits are always sent there. It is like a death sentence to them, they said. Many came home in a wooden box. Bodies are mutilated.
Then there are the "Juramentados". They would shave their heads, take out their long bolos ( like the ones used to behead one of the hostages ) and they would start chopping off heads of anybody they meet on the street.
Then there is the story re: American General (?) Pershing who was assigned to Mindanao to keep peace and order and to "subdue" the Muslims..When some captives did not cooperate, he threatened to shoot them with bullets dipped in pig's blood.He knew that if there is an animal they abhor, it is Porky Pig.
It is so easy to stereo type people as "good" or "bad." Toddlers or Kindergarten kids do not do that ..not yet at that stage anyway. Then as they grow up, they learn..As one song from SOUTH PACIFIC goes: "you got to be taught to be afraid, of people whose skin have a different shade...you've got to be carefully taught.."
Yes, you are right: a mini version of the current Middle east crisis is going on in Mindanao and the government seems not to be able to do something about it. Some "experts" on the matter say: "It is not a matter of Religion: it is a matter of land and money.."
Then they continue discussing the matter until the cows come home. In the meantime, bullets fly, bombs explode and the body count keeps on getting higher...
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
More feedbacks from Longwaybye re: Mindanao
I know of a similar story. I am Mindanao- born and bred by the way, but my parents are from Pangasinan and grandparents are from different Luzon and Visayas provinces.
Without going to details, I'll tell of an Ilocano, a scion of a leading justice, went to Mindanao, same thing cultivated the land and some people, native Muslims murdered him.
His son said," pinakain mo sila, binigyan mo ng trabaho, parang kapatid na ang trato ng tatay ko, ganun pa ginawa!" Then he apologized and asked if I were a Muslim.
Well, the answer is simple, it was plain murder. But let us look deeper. I must warn though that murder is murder. This is just to elucidate the deeper issues.
Similar to the Jews claiming Israel, the Palestinians claiming their own. Fact is, our Muslim brothers own the land in Mindanao. Seems preposterous but true. Same rationale why we are claiming Sabah. It was a sultanate under the Sultanate of SULU.
It is their land, their ancestral land. But it won't do that they will murder, or forcefully drive the present owners. We have a legitimate existing gov't, and all things must be done thru law.
Some people from Luzon bought the land from the muslim natives. Some muslims want it back, without paying. That is not right.
But really, some people from Luzon also grabbed the land, and fooled the uneducated muslims to give up their land. remember the first entry of canned sardines? A bagful of sardinas would buy a 13 hectare land, the illiterate and wide-eyed muslim didnt know more.
**********
Lest others may mistake us, we use Muslims only because that is the way we used to refer to our brothers down south, but we know they are people like you and me. funny we dont address ourselves as Kristiyano, but refer to each other by our province, as Ilocano, Pangasinan, Bisaya etc.
As we all know Muslim is Islam, like Christians is to Catholic and the different Protestant denominations. we should refer to them more as Maranaos, or Tausugs etc, much as the natives of the north are Itawis, Kalinga etc.
My brother was so guilt ridden about the possibility that we got our land via force or cunning, that he sold his part and bought a subdivision lot in the city. I kept my own, though it is as good as sold, because the tenants have been there for so long, and yes they are muslims, and practically they dont give my share of the harvest anymore. I plan to give them the title soon. Mine is not for guilt but as a goodwill and help, i know the family of the tenants and I just want them to have it.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
My Feedback to Longwaybye's Feedbacks..( sorry for the delay )
Your 2 e-mails are really mind openers..My answer to the first one is as follows:
There are lots of gray areas in Law, Philippine or Canadian. I had my taste of both..It is in those gray areas where lawyers make a "killing" I believe. They are paid a bundle for it. Lawyers know how to "interprete" it, bend it a little bit, try to make black appear as white, or to make a suspect "innocent" even if he has just blown out the brains of somebody.
In the case of the poor Kannaway, it is tough because there are just a few animal advocates back home. If there are, they would belong to a very small minority and they would be the butt of jokes and criticism..Unlike here in Canada or in the US. If you hurl a rock at a damned squirrel because he/she is digging up the tulip bulbs you planted last fall and a neighbour reported you to the SPCA, then you are in trouble..As a newcomer in North America once said: "This place is amazing: If you run over a person, you MIGHT go free but if you run over a bird or a squirrel, you will be fined.." We can only TRY to save the poor Kannaway, but not to the extent of losing our own just in case the poacher is really hungry and he is brandishing a weapon he can turn on us...
When I was in Hawaii, I was talking with a very kind hearted lady who came from Asingan, went to Mindanao and then she and her husband started to build a good life and home in this promised land. They could never do the same in Asingan. As soon as the farm was planted and was yielding good harvest, some Muslims allegedly came, wanted the land back and when the husband said NO, they killed him, just like that..It is so easy to brand them as murderers, but again, that's what they just did.Murder in cold blood..She could have filed charges and let the law have it's way..But then...
The lady is now in Hawaii, leading a very good life with her family including numerous grandchildren..Again, there is that big question of WHY? Why do bad things happen to good people all the time?
If I know the answer to this question, I would not be here right now typing this blog..
******
Monday, July 17, 2006
Sunday, July 16, 2006
SUMMER IN THE CITY (HOT!HOT!HOT!)
Saturday, July 15, 2006
feedbacks from Longwaybye
FEEDBACKS BY LONGWAYBYE and ARSENIO
******
I was thinking, do we blame the hunters who ate those carabao-back perching birds? Sometimes, we dont understand those who are poor, because we have enough.
It is not easy to see how kapit-patalim really push people to do illegal, immoral and shameful things.
The question is, is it allright for people to hunt those things?
Would you deprive the native hunters, those that make their living since the time of their ancestors by hunting, of their prey when that prey is endangered, in the light of preserving both the native's way of life and the prey itself?
I have a few guidelines. First, I say that no matter the poverty, or the kapit patalim, one cannot justify doing bad. It is easy to see how poverty and hardship of life become the excuse." Pampakain lang sa mga bata ko, and the vendor will overprice you, or put in ice into your 1kilo bangus to make it look like 3 kilos. That is not justified.
Marry for money? Nope. Fooling the white man, saying you love him and all when your true intention is to haul you and your family out of the hardship is an admirable intention but your way of achieving it is so low. Deceive a man and you are very a scum.
It is okay if you really like him though. But really?
We have hunted down these birds since time immemorial, why the heck are you trying to prevent us? Well, it is really hard to answer that. But it all boils down to majority rules.
It just so happens that in a democracy, some minority, both people and ideas, just have to sacrifice some of their wants and needs.
In the mountains of mangatarem, there are a few deers roaming. The local people hunt them. Those deers are in the protected list of animals. Even trees nowadays you cant cut them down unless a permit is given by DENR, even in your own backyard. A surprising law, but still a law, and if you look at the basis and the rationale of that law, it is noteworthy and understandable. Anyway, it is the LAW, and we have to follow it. -Longwaybye
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By the way, there are still several of those white birds perching on the backs of the carabaos. In the Zambales area, the southern mindanao, and probably the whole of the island of visayas and the bicol region, you see still those picturesque carabao-and-bird phenomenon.
The pangasinan area is unique since it has a lot of people. The dagupan Junction Jollibee alone has the most record number of customers among all Jollibees nationwide, outside of Metro Manila.
I have lived in the visayas and mindanao areas, and people arent as many there. Those places are really nice, it just the proximity to manila that is troublesome. I now understand the secessionist's view. We who have mindanao our home, have to go and fly to manila for some of our needs, the big ones of course, not the day to day needs. Things like education, airports for international flights, it is good that the Court of Appeals have a Cagayan de oro branch, but what if we want to elevate our case to the supreme court?
But the greatest justifiable reason is the tax money that Visayas and Mindanao pay to the national government. More is poured into Manila and Luzon.
well, well, I now live in the Pangasinan-Luzon area, but i told my Muslim friends there, if ever you succeed in creating a Republic of Mindanao, tell me and Ill come running back there. They said theyre gonna make me a secretary, I said dont be serious!-Longwaybye
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A FEEDBACK BY ARSENIO
Yes, I agree! We should understand the situation of our poor local kabayanS here in P.I. It is very touching thought from your comment, longwaybye. If really there is law implemented by government at least it will prevent or minimize the local hunters to kill the protected list of animals. Well, I'm guilty myself killing the birds with sling shots then and making "arroz caldo." I remember some people were bring the birds home to feed their family.
Our families tasted the way of life from hardship and poverty the kapit patalim thing.Thanks God, we overcome it by coming to here to America the Savior of a hard life.
America is a place to dream, a place that anybody can grow, a nation that his people are rich, this is a nation that can give the opportunity to anybody to any ethnic to achieve the "American Dream".
Poor nations will be considered as a 3rd world country. Philippines is a 3rd world and if there's a 4th world that would be our beloved country. Every 3rd world country had the same problem: their people are in poverty and hardship,"Kapit patalim" just to survive. I will not stick the finger to point against them. The way of life, the way it is. Instead, I blame it on the crooked government, I guess. Who else is to blame?
-Arsenio
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THE Philippine White Flamingo
by Arsenio Macanas
THIS Ilocano song lingers on in my mind. My grandpa taught me this beautiful Ilokano song. I taught this song to my daughter also when she was a baby. She now just like me every time I sing this song she follows me. She loves to sing the song even if she doesn't understand a word of it.
One time my daughter asked me, "What is kan-naway means? I said, "It's a bird a beautiful bird like a Flamingo. Maybe they should have called it Philippine white Flamingo because it has a different color from the real one which is pink.."
When my family went to Philippines for a vacation last year, my daughter told me she never saw any kan-naway in the taltalon. I explained with her that this species is already endangered and one rarely see them anymore.
The last time I saw the kan-naway was when I was maybe when I was in the 3rd grade. The kan-naway was sitting or posing on the back of the carabao while the carabao was busy in browsing and grazing around the pasture. I really miss the beautiful scenery in Cabincolan rice field viewed to the west of "Domaquette City" and Carusucan norte and sur. The view really mesmerized me.
Back then, every afternoon, kids from our place sometimes hangout in the bangkag playing, running, doing all kids' stuff until dusk. I saw the beautiful sunset in the field then but we were kids and did not pay any attention about to things like that. But scenes like those stick in their brain and and later in life, they will come out as beautiful memories.
I fell sorry for the youngster for not seeing those birds anymore. It seems the birds (kan-naway) no longer exist. What a shame to those birds hunters who ate them all. If there some left, please save them. This species is almost extinct.
An old Filipino veteran hang out at my store one time and chatted with me. When I asked him, "Why arethe birds (kan-naway ) are endangere? His answer in Ilokano was , "Ngamin, awanen wenno manmanon iti nuang. Sinukatan iti Kuliglig, ket saan nga kayat ti kanaway iti kuliglig."*
I laughed loud.--#
*Because there are not very many carabaos ( water bufalloes) left ( in the Philippine fields ).The animals were replaced by KULIGLIG ( a kind of mini-tractor/plower ) and the kannaway do not like the kuligligs..
note: The kannaway thrive partly on the lice that infest the back of the carabaos.The carabaos flick the flies and lice from their back with their tail. But what the tail can not drive away, the Kannaway eats it..
AN E-MAIL FROM SIDNEY
Friday, July 14, 2006
A VERY OLD ILOCANO SONG
One of the perks of being a retiree ( and one who knows how to use a PC ) is being able to visit cyber sites which you never knew existed.By accident, I came across this site that features a batch of ILOCANO SONGS..And of the songs that I found was a piece we were singing during my elementary days here in Asingan. Here is the song and you can sing it if you know the tune of PLANTING RICE. A-one, a-two, a one-two-three...
Dagiti mulak
Nagmulaak ti katuday
Diay tuktok diay bantay,
Napan met kinaraykay
Ni nadawel a kannaway.
Agaluadka sika kannaway
Ta uggesek dayta ramay
Ta aramidek a sagaysay
Sagaysay ni Lela Kikay.
Nagmulaak ti tabako
Diay tuktok diay puro,
Napan met sinang-sangdo
Ni nadawel a kabalio.
Agaluadka kabalio
Tuktukkolek dayta sungo,
Ta 'ramidek nga suako
Suakonto ni Lelongko.
One thing though, this ditty won't be endorsed by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)...
Thursday, July 13, 2006
THE FIRST IMAX THEATRE IN THE PHILIPPINES
by Mila delos Santos
I was so excited about the opening of the IMAX theater in the Philippines. So during the grand opening of the Mall of Asia last Sunday, I gathered up all my courage and patience and watched Everest in IMAX format . The film was truly breathtaking (I'll cover Everest in a separate post) and you will truly appreciate the feat accomplished by Leo Oracion, Pastor Emata, and Romi Garduce in climbing the top of the world after you have seen this movie. The focus of this article is the IMAX Theatre in the MOA and I'll give you a "sneak preview"on what to expect if you enter this theatre:
-- You'll be awestruck by the sheer size of a 20m x 33m 8 stories high Wide Screen. I tried to capture the screen and give a perspective on how huge it is!
-- There are 560 seats in the theater and the show was sold out! Just see how big the theater is.
-- The rows are from A to P with A being the first row in front of the screen. Trust me, you don't want to be in A and we were seated in G but still it feels too close. My advise get seats near P and in the center around seat 20+.
-- There are two entrances in the first floor. The right entrance was supposed to be an entrance for seats 1-21 while the left was for seats 22-44. If you are on the wrong entrance, don't worry just tell the person that you don't mind entering the wrong entrance and walk all the way to your seat because it isn't that far to walk.
-- The exit was on the second floor at the back of the theater. I can imagine in an emergency you don't want to be stucked in the middle of the IMAX theater so make sure you position yourself near the exit. So if I were to watch again, I'll choose row P, single digit seats.
-- IMAX is located in the north side of Mall of Asia. So I suggest that you park in the north side open space. I'll posted a map of the mall of Asia below to give you the location of the IMAX. You don't want to be parking on the south side, which is already too far from the IMAX.
-- The regular IMAX shows are only 45 minutes long compared to the regular movies which are only about 1.5 to 2 hours show.
-- There are two shows available that is currently showing the Nascar Racing which is a 3d show for P200 and Everest which is a 2d show for P150. Superman Returns will be showing in late June, so this is the movie to watch in IMAX!
-- The IMAX Theater is sponsored by San Miguel and Coca Cola, so expect their ads all over the theater. San Miguel Beer anyone during the movie? That would be a bad idea...
-- Food and drinks are allowed inside the theater. But as a courtesy to the next people watching the IMAX shows, please clean your trash before you leave.
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Where is IMAX? OK, I'll orient you with this map. First, check photo no. 1 above..The South Parking (Yellow) faces the Church of the Way, the Truth and the Life. The Main Mall (Blue) is the center where it is directly in front of the Mall of Asia Globe. The Entertainment Mall (Green) faces Manila Bay. The IMAX Theater is located in the corner intersecting the North Parking (where the DELL call center is located) and the Entertainment Mall. There are open air parking spaces outside IMAX so find some parking slots there. I don't advise the 5 story parking towers... believe me this is the last place you want to park.
*************
A big THANK YOU to Mila for this very lucid article on the latest Landmark in Manila. I enjoyed working on it and it seemed as if I have visited the place in spirit and for sure once I visit the Philippines again I will give it a look. The photographs are also very clear and the colors are unlike the ordinary digital photos I have seen.
Again to Mila, a big THANK YOU !!!
notes: The first IMAX ever built here in Ontario is found in Ontario Place, beside the lakeshore area. It was built around the '80s. The second one, I believe is the PARAMOUNT the theatre where I saw SUPERMAN RETURNS during the middle week of June. Segments of the movie were in 3 Dimension, that means you have to wear special glasses to see the effect..IMAX movies are shot in a special film ( the final film being shown is about 100 mm big, compared to the 35 mm being used in ordinary theatres ). You will notice that watching the Real IMAX movies which are mostly documentaries, the screen image is so big yet the details are so sharp and clear..Sometimes it is so big that you could not see everything in the screen! Still the IMAX experience is really mind-blowing. Some feature films ( like Return of the Jedi or Superman Returns were not filmed in original IMAX; some prints were blown up into 100 mm size then run through the IMAX projectors which are different from the standard film projectors ).
So everybody, once in a while, let us put the TV to rest and let us go to the movies!
--the editor
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
THE MALL OF ASIA OPENS IN MANILA
This globe ( check first photo ) is now the official symbol of the Mall of Asia (MOA ) It is said to be the 3rd largest Mall in the WORLD. If you notice, the Philippines is at the center of the globe and it sits proudly at the center of MOA. It opened last May 21, 2006 and a lot of people from different walks of life were there to witness its opening -- from the tsinelas crowd, to the middle class citizens and to the elite of Society. For those of you who decided to sit back and wait until the maddening crowd have settled down over the opening of MOA, I would say good decision on your part. You have to bring with you a lot of patience just to wait in line in the parking and elevators, or just walking around the mall because of the huge crowd traffic, not to mention the summer heat we are still experiencing. I'll give you a sneak preview of MOA...
(Stories, photos and captions by MILA DELOS SANTOS, Ontario, Canada )
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
HEATHER SOLORIA RECEIVES HONOR FOR HEART, MIND AND HELPFULNESS
As Heather Soloria ( the daughter of Ben and Perla Soloria ) walked past former US Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor to receive a pre-graduation award at the College of William and Mary, she could not help but think about the flip-flops she was wearing. College of William and Mary, located in the state of Virginia is the oldest school in the USA. Heather did not expect she would receive the Sullivan Award upon graduating last May 14.
The western branch resident said she was going to dress up for a departmental ceremony later that day, but since her graduating class was doing a ritual walk around the campus she decided to wear something comfortable. Not wanting to twist her ankle, she decided to use flip flops.
Heather is a analytical neuroscience major.
"I was totally embarrassed", said Heather, 21. So after congratulating her, her parents Ben and Perla hinted she should have worn the nice shoes.
But footwear had nothing to do with the receiving of the award which is given to one man and one woman in William and Mary's graduating class. The award recognizes the recepient's heart, mind and helpfulness to others.
Vernon Hurte, the assistant director of the multicultural student affairs at William and Mary nominated Heather for the award. Hurte said that Heather is a student who found success inside and outside the classroom. She was impressed with Heather because in today's society which is so "me driven," oftentimes, she is the exact opposit of that.
Heather who is a 2002 graduate of Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School in Virginia Beach, has a true love of people. In William and Mary's she supported people. She was a member of Project Phoenix, a tutoring and mentoring program. In 2004, she went to the Philippines, where her parents are from ( her dad is from Asingan, her mom is from Cagayan) and worked at an orphanage. In there were patients there suffering from leprosy. But she said she was not exposed to the disease and she is totally fine. The experience changed her.
Language barrier was the biggest problem there, she said. The Filipino kids there said: "You look like a Filipino but you can not speak Filipino". Heather's parents are both Filipinos but she grew up here in the US.
But she said she wants to go back there someday. For now, she wants to attend graduate school before going to medical school. She may even follow the footsteps of her mom, a Portsmouth pediatrician.---#
THE HAWAIIAN PAVILION:CARA-BRAM
If you have visited Hawai'i and have witnessed how the natives perform the Hula, no kind of Hula dancing especially in Summer Festivals ( like the Cara-Bram ) would not appeal anymore to you. Hula, in Hawai'i is a kind of prayer. It is praying through dancing or story telling with the use of body language..And watching a consumate Hula dancer would put your mind and spirit at ease.
Accompanying music is always live. One guitarist, one ukelele player and one accoustic bass. And there must be a singer and the songs are usually in the Hawaiian language..Sometimes the Hula dancer is old or heavy, but it does not matter really. You would prefer to watch an old Hula dancer who knows the dance than a young and pretty one who doesn't..
The Hula dancers at the CaraBram were there merely to entertain, that's all...The costumes are authentic ( except for the coconut shell bra ) .. The powerful sound system providing the Hula music is anathema to a Hawaiian Dance purist. And Elvis singing? Gimme a break!
Anyway, it is all in the spirit of fun, really..Yes, the food are not Hawaiian..They are more Filipino if anything. I bet the food supplier of the Hawaiian and the Philippine pavilion is just one guy..
As the photos will show you, the Filipina Beauty is still up there on the top of the totem pole. Viva la Filipina!
Monday, July 10, 2006
MIGUELITA'S GARDEN
Miguelita is quite an artist too..a horticultural artist if I am allowed to use the phrase..During her spare time, she works constantly in her front yard especially this year when her front garden was entered into the Etobicoke Garden contest..Hoping she will win, and even if she won't, she says the pleasure of turning out something beautiful with her gloved hands is already a reward by itself!
A big THANK YOU to Louena Untinen for taking the photos..
Sunday, July 9, 2006
EMMA AT THE IRISH PAVILION...
July 7-8-9 was the Cara-bram at Brampton, Ontario. This expanding Community is the hometown of my 2 grandaughters, Emma and Mia. Some nationalities put up a Pavilion including the Philippines and Hawaii..We made it to Hawaii but not the Philippines. We arrived in Brampton at mid day and the Pavilions are far apart. After taking some video shots in the Irish Pavilion, we took a free shuttle bus to the Hawaiian Pavilion..
Next entry will feature dazzling shots of the Irish Dancers and a separate article will show the Hawaiian dancers ( which appeared to be mostly Filipinos! )
Viva Filipinas!
Saturday, July 8, 2006
Comment on COLLEGE DAYS..part 1 ( submitted by Longwaybye)
First world countries are spoiled, as one nurse said, after attending a medical mission in Africa.
Thus, I now try to live life like I did in college. Of course, it helps the mind to know I now have some money to spare, but at the risk of being spoiled I dont indulge in what many would call now necessaries.
Life was simple back and college, but it was the fondest and most significant of memories. You never know life till you suffer.
I dont own a bed now, I sleep on the floor. I slept on the floor in manila during college, in a cramped room along with four others, yes right along pedro gil, we called it herran then.
I dont own a car, dont buy digitals, and I cook my food the firewood way.
Yes, I do frequent the movies, like in College.
It is not that I hate modern stuff, but I like to remember the good old days, and really youll find that life is so much easier, and enjoyable, when youve got few things in ownership, and few things to worry about.
I got spoiled when I was in the US too. When I came home after studying there and working there for several years, I wanted the same comforts here in the Philippines. the same cleanliness, the same convenience, the same efficiency, the same Fairness and Justice.
Which made me miserable, of course, given the state of things here.
So after only about a year, i went back to the US, this time aiming for good. But, after several years, i remembered college, and how hard life was in Manila, yet how sweet and satisfying!
I hurried home, and ever since I made my home at home, leaving only for a month or so to visit and relive memories of my days abroad.
But I always find myself wanting to wake up on the floor, at 5am, to chop firewood.....
Wednesday, July 5, 2006
STOPPING OVER AT THE NIAGARA ON THE LAKE...
Niagara-on-the Lake is the last place to visit in our tour.
This town is a beautiful, quiet town in the Niagara Penninsula. My daughter told me she and her husband spent their honeymoon in this hamlet which is quiet but gorgeous, full of flowering shrubs, tree-lined boulevards and friendly, smiling people. This is one town that does not believe in progress for progress sake. The townspeople prefer to remain "backwards" and now tourists from all over the world come to visit this place owned by the "backward" people. No bus lines, no factories ( thanks God!).. There is a 5 star hotel housed in a building that must have been built ( and never expanded ) since the 18th century.
A live theatre called Shaw Theatre is one of the main attractions of this town. Beyond its fringes are vineyards producing grapes used for winemaking.
If you are sick of city life, this is one village you should check out, and you will be happy for it! ---#
Tuesday, July 4, 2006
NIAGARA, ONE OF THE WONDERS OF THE WORLD..
Almost everyday, especially during the Summer season Niagara is wall to wall with tourists..Visiting this tourist spot could be done in two ways: by using a car or joining a tour bus. Each one has certain pros and cons..
If you take a car, you can have more time to walk about and visit the various attractions ( money traps ) of the place..BUT, you have to reckon with finding a parking space.
If you take the tour bus, then you can only have a half hour at most in walking about and enjoy the place...But you will be very comfortable riding in an air condtioned bus..And sometimes, you will learn many things re: Niagara from the lecture of the driver. A buffet is included in the tour, plus the Maid of the Mists ride..Then there will be side trips, esp. to Niagara on the Lake, a wine making country..
This entry describes briefly the ride on the Maid of the Mist. However, no words can do justice to what you see and feel while you are there; the deafening sound of the cascading waters blocking your ears and the white "mist" which envelopes the boat as it approaches the horsehoe falls. Then it stops at a safe distance, otherwise the weight of the oncoming water will capsize and wreck the boat. The people scream as the ship enters the "danger" zone...Using expensive cameras will surely damage its sensitive features. Besides you would not get any good shot anyway. If the sun is out while you are there, you would see a rainbow because the spray would act as a prism to bend the sunlight and divides it into the seven recognizable colours.
After a minute or so, you would feel the ship retreating and then it goes back to the port where it picked the passengers. A new batch of daring passengers would be waiting at the dock, eager to experience what you just have did...
A LETTER TO MIKE BARTLETT
Thanks, Mike!
Yes, if you are a retiree, you have to keep busy, or else!...
Last July3, Monday, we visited Niagara Falls ( and surrounding areas ) with a tour group. The advantage of traveling with a tour bus is the information you get from the guide/driver and luckily, the one we got last Monday was a very erudite fellow..He told us, while driving at highway speed along QEW lots of stories re: the Niagara region..We learned that:
1) The movie NIAGARA starring Marilyn Monroe helped a lot in boosting the popularity of the Falls. Right now, it is one of the top tourist attractions of the world.
2) The trip to the Falls wont be complete if you wont take the trip of the Maid of the Mists, a ship which comes dangerously close to the cascading torrent of the Niagara river. Yes, the Falls is just one part of the river which empties into one of the Great lakes..
3) Kings, Presidents and various royal figures have taken the trip which does not last very long. No words can describe accurately the experience: you have to take it yourself, if you can. You get wet, you get awed, you endure an hour of waiting for a 15-minute boat ride. But compared to the rides of Disneyland or the Universal Studios, this one is REAL. And no accident has ever ocurred since the late 1800's when the first voyage of the Maid took place. I heard that Disney is trying to buy this enterprise but any of his offer was flatly refused by the Niagara Parks..
Photos of the ride will be published shortly in the next entry...
Monday, July 3, 2006
Re: FROM SUPERMAN TO A CHINESE CHORAL CONCERT
Love this entry. You have to be one of the busiest men around. I hope to
catch Superman this week. I too am a huge fan of the "Man of Steel".
All the best to you and Mrs. Costes. Happy Canada Day!
--Bartlett
Sunday, July 2, 2006
CANADA DAY PHOTOS part 1....
CANADA DAY 2006
was a bright, sunny day all over Toronto. Side show tents, craft markets, flea markets sprung all over parts of the city like mushrooms. Harbourfront, at the edge of Lake Ontario was the center of an interesting array of events and a big sailboat that leaves the harbour every hour carrying tourists who want to experience an hour or so ride circling the Center Islands ( where people were also gathering for bar-b-ques, ball playing or just plain sun tanning..
In the Toronto Star stage was an hour long program of belly dancing stars..The dancers were quite a sight: they look as if they came straight from the pages of the 1001 Arabian Nights!
There were also craft exhibitions in the Gallery, and for those who stayed up to midnight, there were firework exhibitions that streaked the sky with splashes of fiery colors..