Letter

Happy Valentine's Day to all!

Annie

Hold the PANACEA

In the play, The Life of Galileo, German playwright, Bertolt Brecht, had the character of Galileo say: “Unhappy is the land that needs heroes”. This quote has often been invoked by many a writer, conveying a message of disarray, of shortcomings and the redemption that followed or the lack of it, or the implementation of new methodologies with their numerous benefits, or the inception of valuable creativity and discoveries in science and medicine, arts and culture, by which man’s meaningful life is enhanced and strengthened, if not defined. In the play, it was a correction to a statement delivered by another character, who said, “Unhappy is the land that has no heroes”. Quite clearly, should there be a need for a hero, something needs fixing; something is causing harm; something is stagnant and requires ebullient energy to facilitate improvements or, in a more somber angle, the state of human sensibilities has exceedingly advanced to a moldering state, perhaps even down to simple living, in which relationships and interactions can change surprisingly from the mundane, tame and discerning, to the profligate, vitriolic and catastrophic.

When the Nazi Buchenwald concentration camp was being liberated on April 11, 1945, 18-year-old Feodor Mikhailichenko, a Russian, shielded 8-year-old Israel Meir Lau, nick named Lulek, from German gunfire. He stole and cooked potatoes for this very young lad, and knitted him wool earmuffs to protect him from the bone-penetrating cold. The Russian looked after him daily like a father, and was befittingly proclaimed hero by the boy.

We all know the tragedy of that period, and plainly, of evil dreams’ devastating claws. They can consume a family, a group, a community, a country.

Not straying farther from home, Efren Penaflorida, a new, modern-time hero has responded to the circumstances of his period, scrutinizing, feeling, and grappling with the challenges of a familiar, yet, abhorrent environment, though instrumental in tapping his humanitarian and creative skills for the sake of many.

Filipino history books cite quite a number of heroes. To have so many, speaks of the depth of oppression, and of how much normalcy and decency have eluded the daily life of a nation. Our heroes depict the conditions of their time, conditions that prompted brave tirades and clenched fists aching in hopelessness and yearning for justice, whilst most citizenry recoiled in fear, whilst laughter escaped victimized homes, whilst reforms seemed far-fetched, and whilst human intellect and emotions could no longer endure. Dilemmas replaced peaceful minds; persecution invited sacrifices instead of submission. What dire circumstances!

Heroes need not only be for the multitude, though certainly for posterity. Most of us can name a personal hero, one unknown to others, but to us, it is the blood that flows in our veins. And there are unnamed heroes whose souls were never trumpeted, nonetheless, as important, worthy of respect and praise. From them, surely: a moment saved, an adversity avoided, a struggle ended and hope renewed.

In the better known version of heroism, while not unexpectedly because of the number of beneficiaries involved, the hero’s choices entail hard work and commitment. Imperatively, there is character. His options have roots originating from situations that deteriorated over time. Ignorance, profligacy, protean coalition of ideas compromising egalitarian ethos, selfish ambitions, poor governance, crime, and many more human weaknesses are triggers for either good or more evil to arise. We rejoice at the good that springs; but, this needs facilitators, and to the fullest extent, heroes. But why does man push things too far or neglect responsibilities that a hero should come to the rescue? Why not aim for the best so that if things do not go a hundred per cent, the degree of failure is not penetratingly disastrous. Why not prefer and mold an environment where most, if not all, can live in peace and be happy. Why not at least work sincerely and with dignity towards it. It is not impossible. Happy is the land where no heroes travail.

By: Jenny

Sandataan 2009 Report

Logo designed by Ramon Alcazar Dellosa 1981

As promised, here's a report of the 75th Anniversary Celebration of Sandataan hosted by Bacon Sandataan Association (Metro Manila), Inc.:

The affair started at about 7:30 in the evening at the 3rd floor of Jade Valley Restaurant (along Timog Avenue, Quezon City) and more or less 150 persons attended the occasion.

At around 8:00, Honorable Congressman Salvador H Escudero III with his aide, Kaka Llamas arrived. After an exchange of some pleasantries with the officers and attendees, Honorable Governor Sally A. Lee, likewise arrived with a lady companion. The VIPs seated in one table.

A short program was organized, with an initial singing of the National Anthem followed by an invocation of Father Dario Diesta Deocareza.

Next, was a welcome address by the President, Cherry Latosa-Mendenilla, followed by the inspirational messages of Governor Lee and Cong. Escudero. Both VIPs applauded the officers of the BSAI for their selfless dedication in continuously promoting a traditional activity of Bacongnons, an association of Sorsoganons solely existing( to borrow the words of Cong. Escudero) in Metro Manila.

Likewise, both has commended the UNITY that Bacongnons has shown and further stressed that such character of Bacongnons is indeed a contributory factor in the development of Sorsogon in general.

Other attendees were residents of Gatbo; Sugod,led by Judge Martinez and wife; Sto. Domingo; San Isidro; San Juan; San Roque; Balete; a balikbayan from Maricrum; Atty. Romy Morato and wife Minda of Poblacion; the family of Latosa of Jardin; the family of Atenciana of Burabod; a certain Ms Doringo of Bon-ot and company; Mr. Marcial Doringo, a known original organizer of the Metro Manila Sandataan, who came in with a walker because of an ailment.

Also Mr. Honorio Dioquino, who have just recuperated from a heart stroke, arrived and with his old age, still, was able to dance the Pantomina.

Others were not residents of Bacon but friends invited coming from Albay, Metro Manila and Sorsogon as well.

The main event of the occasion was Ballroom Dancing, assisted by a live band from Magdalena, Laguna, which was gratefully appreciated by the whole group for its wonderful music, music for all ages.

According to Atty. Morato, it was indeed a successful yearly traditional reunion of Bacongnons here in Metro Manila and further looking forward for more attendees on December 30, 2010.The affair ended at about 12:30 AM.

By Sandataan Officer (Metro Manila)

Happy New Year

A NEW YEAR'S PRAYER

Dear Lord, please give me…

A few friends who understand me and remain my friends;

A work to do which has real value, without which the world would be the poorer;

A mind unafraid to travel, even though the trail be not blazed;

An understanding heart; A sense of humor;

Time for quiet, silent meditation;

A feeling of the presence of God;

The patience to wait for the coming of these things, with the wisdom to recognize them when they come.Amen.

El Muralla

What is Sandataan?

Congressman Sonny Escudero & partner

This is the Sandataan of more than two decades ago when from its inception in 1934, it evolved from a tradition to an institution with primary objectives of promoting the Bicol culture, unity & harmony among Bacongnons and the Bicolanos, render assistance & support to all socio-economic, civic & religious activities and projects that uplift Bacon.

Sandataan is also a silent renewal of the vows of friendships and brotherhood among Bacongnons-a bond that linked them to one another.

A time to relax after a year’s labor, meet old friends; renew acquaintances; dance to old refrains-relive old and fading memories; perhaps rekindle flickering fires of love.

And from among the young new loves are born.Old couples dancing to the favorite tunes of their youth –eyes lit with the fires of love.

Most of them are gone –departed from this world, others far & away. Age & distance renders them incapable of returning & sadly this old haunting poemcomes to mind:

JJ

The Light of Other Days

by Thomas Moore

When I remember all

The friends so linked together,

I've seen around me fall,

Like leaves in wintry weather,

I feel like one Who treads alone

Some banquets- hall deserted,

Whose lights are fled,

Whose garlands dead,

And all but he departed!

Thus, in the stilly night,

Ere slumber's chain has bound me,

Sad memory brings the light

Of others days around me.


Sandataan was organized before WWII primarily for social purpose among Bacongnons in Manila so they can see eachother every year in a very pleasant setting. Alumni Homecoming was also organized I think in early 1990's for the same reason. There was no political, religious or civic motivations. It was purely social. Anyone please correct me if I am wrong.

Simple worker


Actually, the Sandataan started way before WWII in Bacon, when Bacon was one of the leading towns in Sorsogon. The Sandataan was the event of the year attended by many from as far as Legazpi City, Bulan and Irosin. I can still remember that this was still the event to attend up to the early to mid 1950s.As far as I can gather, the Manila Sandataan was formed to replicate the Bacon celebration by those Bacongnons in Manila who could not go home to attend the Bacon event. This was a really good way to remember and re-live the hallowed event of the hometown.But wherever the Sandataan is held, it would and should always reflect the best that Bacongnons are capable of.

Bacongnon man sa ny



If remember correctly, the Maisog na Sandataan was held in Bacon for purely social reasons. All they wanted to do was to have fun and meet the New Year. In fact, there were no elections then. The 4 officers (President, Vice President, Secretary & Treasurer) would be wearing hats or crowns during the Sandataan Ball and whoever they put the hat or crown on will be the next person in that position. But it became one of the top events to go to in the whole province of Sorsogon. People from almost all the towns of Sorsogon and some from Albay made it a point to attend the Sandataan Ball in Bacon.

It's a shame that such an event which has become part of the traditions of Bacon has not been maintained in its former stature as far as social events go.

In recent years, you could see people in the middle of the dance floor in slippers and/or short pants in what is called the Sandataan in Bacon.One has to appreciate the Bacongnons in Metro Manila who are trying to maintain the old tradition of the Maisog na Sandataan. I hope they keep the old practices alive.

However, there comes a time when groups like the Sandataan are called to help their hometown.

And it looks as if the Metro Manila group has organized itself to be so.

If it has evolved into some form of civic association, it must be a relatively recent development. I, too, would be interested to know how it is organized, what its purposes are, what their accomplishments are, so far, and what their plans are to help Bacon.

But what is this I hear that the Metro Manila group has split into two? Is that true? And if so, why?

Anonymous


The Sandataan logo as it is now evolved from a Salakot with Machete but was redesigned to the present because of the adverse connotation the former signified.
Ramon Alcazar Dellosa is credited with the present logo design that was first used when the association was incorporated in 1981.
By:Former BSAI President 1983

Yes, the Sandataan still lives on. We, the present set of officers continue to carry on this tradition. This, somewhat became a commitment that we will share through generations. This tradition will never die. Come what may, we make it a point to celebrate its yearly activity every December 30th. Because we felt that Bacon is still Bacon, the glorious Bacon!

The legend that was Bacon! Anonymous was right, Sandataan was purely for social reason celebrated in Bacon then every December 31st to meet the coming New Year.

Selection of the new set of officers is done during midnight while the social dancing is going on by putting a hat on the prospective officer.

That is why we adapted the hat as the logo of the Sandataan Association here in Manila. But now, election is being done, likewise here in Metro Manila.The Bacon Sandataan Association (Metro-Manila) Inc., is the new name of the organization existing here in Manila and for the information of all Bacongnons, the association here in Metro Manila does not exist purely for social reason. The association has done numerous civic projects in Bacon. To name some:

The welcome arch at the boundary of Bacon and Sorsogon at Gabao, which was damaged by typhoon (Milenyo) which the local government has done nothing to restore it.

A public library located at the back of the former Municipal building is another project. It is now being used as a learning center by out of school youth under the program of the Department of Education. This year it was awarded First Prize as a functioning learning center in the Regional Level.
The Manila Sandataan, the Barangay Council of Bacon District and the DepEd (Non-Formal Education) joined efforts for this achievement. In our little resources, we continue donating old books and other reading materials to the library to make it functional.

Last August 17, 2008, the Metro Manila officers conducted a medical mission at Barangay San Roque, Bacon District in coordination with the Barangay council. Likewise, medicines were also donated to the Barangay of San Juan which was received by the Brgy Chairman.

Anonymous


Sandataan wil live on. Though Bacon municpality was lost but never its tradition.

This association in Metro Manila of Bacongnons is the only organization of Sorsoganon that is actively existing in Metro Manila, according to our beloved Congressman Salvador Escudero, who never fails to attend its yearly celebration, together with Kaka Llamas.

To all Bacongnons, please attend the yearly celebration, 75th Anniversary, at Jade Valley Restaurant located at Scout Torillo coner Scout Rallos, Quezon City (along Timog Avenue) on December 30, 2009. The affair will start at 7PM. Live Band will be assisting the occasion.

BSAI


The Sandataan lives on. third generation Bacongnons are now carrying the banner of Sandataan. I am so proud of you guys.

Ancient one

I am very happy that the Sandataan has embark on more civic and charitable projects. There are so many projects that could still be tackled to help the impoverished, but I am glad that efforts are in the way. Things have to start somewhere.

Anonymous 8877

Peace On Earth

Peace on EarthMeans so much for you and me

Feeling it in our hearts with joyAnd being sin free.

Peace on EarthMeans loving each other always

In good times and bad timesBeing a helping hand with a smile.

Peace on EarthMeans giving and giving

Not expecting anything backAnd yet feeling loved.

Peace on EarthMeans every day makes you smile

For you are happy being youAnd just being able to love.

Peace on EarthMeans so much to a child

He feels love and comfortAnd warmth in his heart.

Peace on EarthMeans we feel loved within

Not pain and sorrowBut peace in our being.

GIVE PEACE A CHANCE IN OUR LAND!

7:49 AM, December 06, 2009
El Muralla

Christmas message

Dear readers, on this beautiful season please pause a while so as not to lose sight of the spiritual message of Christmas. For some moments try to push aside the commercialism and materialistic clutter which the season has unfortunately evolved and try to reflect on what is truly valuable and authentic, our loved ones, friends and peace. For these and more, be very grateful.

God's Miracle Gift

Admit the clamor of this season,
Dear Lord, let us find time to reason Why we celebrate this day-
Pause to bow our heads and pray.
The miracle of Jesus' birth
Known to everyone on this earth; The day that gives the soul a lift;
To God, we thank Him for this gift. The gift that touches human heart,
The greatest gift God could impart; That gives full meaning to the soul,God's miracle, to make us whole.

By: Rene J. Dellosa