Christmas 2007 & Season's Greetings - Jenny

Love and Hatred; Altruism and Selfishness; Honesty and Deception; Compassion and Cruelty; Peace and War; Humility and Arrogance; Respect and Impudence; Sincerity and Hypocrisy; Harmony and Discord, all opposites, good vs. bad, all clashing, and all affect our lives. Encompassing. Universal. Obvious. The good is proclaimed everlasting when time ends. Yet, both sets have followers, a tribute to the human world, to human creativity besieged by redefined moral dimensions that have risen from the social permeability of modern times and the riveting, inescapable legacies of old. To some, treading the good ground seems uncomplicated; to others, it is a constant struggle. In varying degrees and circumstances, the details of good and bad are enormous and difficult to assess. Thus, knowingly or not, we fall into a labyrinth of faults in a backdrop of imperfect resources fraught with conflicting emotions and challenges. Any amorphous environment is of no help either because it can just cater to a misguided yearning for moral and spiritual emancipation. To a certain extent, such is human nature and always, there is a need to be rescued and to be reminded of avoiding the same mistakes; there is a need for a process of renewal; and perhaps, of being born anew with the good that was at the beginning.

And so, it has happened; the Son of God was bestowed upon us, a Gift of Life, the Life needed for our souls to be re-born, our Way to renewal. And Jesus Christ it is. We know the value of respect and consideration for the welfare of others, regardless of dissimilar backgrounds; of forgiveness, honest interaction with others; of decency and responsible living; of heartfelt understanding of long-lasting, endearing, happy moments, for from Him flow love, harmony, compassion, humility and peace; for good only comes from God.

The manifestations of sincerely experiencing Jesus Christ and God’s love vary in each individual. They may be implicit or explicit. Sometimes they are vague or visually simple, while others come with such solemnity or intense spirituality. Perhaps, in some instances they are conflicting, therefore, calling for deeper understanding, requiring the right reaction as well, while mindful of the good being emanated and of God’s mysterious ways and how feeble we are in comparison.

Good deeds or intentions underscore the bad. So, it is known that there are/were detainees or political prisoners who sacrifice(d) their lives and/or freedom for the sake of normalcy and peace. How hapless is a place that a sanitation project has to be promoted by a foreign delegation at Kawempe Slum in Kampala, Uganda. There exists an artist who drew and enhanced the feeling of justice, order and compassion for others by expressing in his paintings, what is detestable and horrific in a war accentuated by torture of prisoners, in an era where correct human behaviour is more defined. We can overlook the seemingly minimal optimism or political maneuvering if any, in the effort to envisage a Middle East accord with a gathering of controversial personalities in Annapolis, Maryland; and why not, even if it might only temporarily avert a more or incessant disastrous Palestinian-Israeli crisis. It is better than nothing, no matter how short-lived it may function and certainly better than unmitigated anguish and hatred. Little is known perhaps, of 92-year old Ivan Brovko who made noise despite the threat of imprisonment, after witnessing a student, one of several millions, fell victim to Holodomor, the famine-genocide that Ukraine endured because of Stalin’s tyranny. Knowing the difference of good and bad, Ivan Brovko fulfills his promise that as long as he can live, he will continue to talk about it so that it will forever be a reminder, so that any duplicate effort will never be thought of. His effort, though plain, has exponentially given significance to the value of life and the worth of proper governance. And there are many more, young and old, who by their work, acts, intentions and speech, grand or simple, whether they are conscious of them or not, continue to endorse and exemplify the willingness to strengthen, to renew, and to disseminate the good. These are our human reminders. If by any chance, by any unfortunate circumstances, someone falls under the morally and spiritually lukewarm, it is with great hope that these activities may help rekindle the good that life was intended to be. Without it we can not celebrate life.

The absolute reminder is Jesus Christ himself. We can not say that little is known of Him. Simply contemplate on what He represents, what He has done and offered. Absorb them and rejoice. With Him, in Him, we celebrate life.

Thank goodness, it’s Christmas again! It’s the time where we, in greatest number, think of nice, good and spirit-lifting gestures; even better if we all truly grasp the spiritual message of this period of happiness. Bad should never have a place (not that it is any good at all at any given day) at this time of the year and indeed, it is such dishonour if it creeps into this holy season. Let us celebrate God’s Love, the Gift of Life, our Saviour, our Rescuer, Jesus Christ; let us forever be reminded of what is behind this divine legacy of spiritual rejuvenation. So, let’s responsibly put up festive décor to express our joy for the blessings we have received while at the same time pray and be thankful; don’t forget to take a moment to feel and picture how He was given to us, with Mother Mary, Saint Joseph, the angel, shepherds and Three Kings; sing and even attempt the high note in “Oh Holy Night” and should it be a disaster, laugh with contentment, so what if you appear musically obtuse, we all have our moments (make sure you are not much of it to perform in public); make room for everybody, delete discrimination and forever clear it from the recycle or trash bin of your heart and be a nexus to goodwill, therefore an instrument of peace and harmony; express your best wishes and God’s blessings in ways you can afford, just choose the right clauses in cards you want to send out, whether they be from American Greetings, Hallmark, Carlton, or from charities who pre-printed your addresses as an enticement to donate; enjoy the sight of joyful children awaiting Santa Claus’ made-to-order gifts; allow colourful light bulbs and candles to glow with hope and enlightenment; put up the wreath of continuous excellent health, sufficiency or abundance; sincerely serve food and give away presents so kindness, appreciation and consideration for others are exemplified in one way or another; be innocently and properly romantic, collaborate with a mistletoe if need be; don’t limit yourself in material gifts, but, touch the hearts and souls of others by compassion, decency, respect; be graciously funny and foolish if only to simplify things and relieve the stress of mixed activities; have the Holy Manger in its rightful place so that humility and unpretentious generosity is fostered! Thank God for Christmas!

And as always, let us not forget to provide places in our hearts and prayers for those from whom the message and joy of this celebration have been taken away.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND GOOD TIDINGS OF PEACE, LOVE, ORDER AND RESPONSIBLE PROSPERITY FOR THE COMING YEAR

Jenny

Mrs. Cristina Dooc-Jose - By Lorna N. Figueroa

Achievement Award For Public Service

The 2004 Achievement Award for Public Service was awarded posthumously to a person who spent her whole life serving the people of her community through her job as an educator, her personal commitment to her hometown as its historian and the services she gave to her church.

Born in July 24, 1914, she is an alumna of Bacon Central School and the Sorsogon Provincial High School. She finished her collegiate course in teaching at the Philippine Normal School & spent 33 years of her life as a public school teacher. Most of the alumni’s memories of our youth spent as school children of Bacon Central School will not be complete without delightful accounts of our experiences with this beloved teacher. Who can forget the small pinches on our upper arms, the chalk-filled hand wiped all over our faces when we misbehave or not pay attention to her lessons? However, how many alumni will attest to the fact that we are who we are today due in large part to the encouragement and the lessons we got from our dear Mrs. Jose?

It was during the time when she was assigned as the Teacher in Charge in Sawanga when she saw the need for the Barangay High Schools. She approached several persons of authority to convince them of the need for secondary schools in the barangays.

In 1963 she wrote the History of Bacon taken from the facts, which she painstakingly researched and recorded for many years. This task, which she took upon herself without a promise of financial gain or personal glory, is now one masterpiece and the only evidence of the old colorful and glorious history of Bacon.

Mrs. Cristina Jose was assigned as a principal first in Bacon East Central School and later in Bacon West Central School where she retired in year 1976.

Once retired she helped the late Rev. Fr. Dino with the Annunciation College of Bacon Secondary School and spent the rest of her life in giving services to her community, her church and the Lord. A widow who had only one child Joan, who passed away before her, she was survived by her grandchildren, son-in-law, nephews and nieces and countless adoring former pupils who will never forget her. She died in August 21, 1977.

Reaching Out & Touching Our Souls Genuinely - Jenny

Our neighbour requested for prayers to help bring back her husband’s good health. As she gracefully moved her hijab just enough for me to see the seriousness of her plight, I was struck with the image of determination and confidence in the action taken. Desperation was not outlined on her face and neither was sadness. Instinctively still, I touched her hand to comfort her, and knowing what it meant, she promptly affirmed my swift assessment. It is faith she said that equipped her with courage; tread the path of positivities, leaving no room for sadness. Needless to say, she meant faith in God, who she respectfully addressed quite differently as I and those in my religion would. Her faith in Him has become more pronounced each day I speak to her. At 36, hard-working, very much a family man, her husband is afflicted with lung cancer with no obvious cause for acquiring it. He is also a father of three very young sons, all years below the radar of puberty. As the wife entrusted us to help them in their suffering through our prayers, I was in turn grateful and elated for the respect and recognition she has shown for my religion, my faith; an acknowledgment sincere enough to touch their very lives. It moved me to know that in her spiritual beliefs we are favourably included despite some differences in sacred doctrine and religious practices; that even in prior normal days there was never a need for dogmatic assertions, from us or her, in order to prove who are within the loving embrace of God and who has the right religion. The converging forces of truly and simultaneously understanding religion and the physical man have united us in one faith.

We assured her of our prayers and we went further to offer a Holy Mass for her husband’s full recovery. In the past, I have sought the merits of this sacred rite for various personal and neighbourly intentions. However, I have never offered one for anybody outside of my religion. Not for even a second did this reality come to mind as we planned for this ultimate spiritual offering and supplication. I always believe that God is for everyone. When our parish priest saw the name of our sick neighbour during the scheduling of the mass, he fixated an eye line with me, without a smile I should add, as if to confirm, while he mentioned in one word, my neighbour’s spiritual background. I thought, “Oh-oh, this is the part where an orchestra plays an overture”. He quickly added, perhaps alerted by my emerging defensive look, that we are all children of God and my request for the Holy Mass on my neighbour’s behalf was most welcomed, as was the presence during the mass, of my sick neighbour or any of his family members, relatives and friends. He praised my intentions, though obviously not expecting the inconsistency just rendered. With this, and like music with different notes and movements, the initial staccato of doubts and uneasiness that played because of the difference in religion so obviously spelled out, turned into sentiments with the artistry of etudes. There was a distinct sense of fulfillment, relief and resolve for what I believe religion should stand for and how God should be portrayed.

I was reminded of a time I was told that mere entry to a church of another religion was a sin. I have of course dismissed this, countless summers ago, as a product of misinterpretation, of somebody lost in translation, ignorance and yes, perhaps, judgmental people. My mind went on and had “re-runs” of the sad and unfortunate moments I learned and read about, despite pure intentions by some, or most, during the age of Conquistadores and the Crusades.

Similarly, I couldn’t help but look back to a morass of a discussion I had with a co-worker who said, or rather pontificated, that Eternal Salvation is not possible without reading the Holy Bible. It made me regret for opting a much-needed 15-minute break in the comforts of the employees’ lounging room instead of sticking it out with spreadsheets, formulae, analysis, decisions and reports yet to be made. The statement, intended to be understood literally, prompted my thoughts to trickle fast like blocks in an old Nintendo game: The poor illiterates then! What about a tired mother who procreated and has a good number of them taking the time she could have devoted to the Bible? What will happen to the blind who has no access to the Braille system or who is in a predicament where no one can read for him? Would knowledge of avoiding sin and actions indicative of this suffice for a dying man? What happens to a good man who takes to heart God’s commandments, but does not read the Bible? Would God be so unforgiving? I vocalized these to my disappointment. She went on questioning the role of the Pope and the presence of leaders, and kings and what future holds for them. Pardon me, but as the discussion transformed into something like a political debate gone awry, I left with no formality, lest I actually sin. I saw others swing their heads left and right. I wondered how they took her stance, or mine. One thing was certain though-----it was a day minus 15 minutes, that I enjoyed working with figures, spreadsheets and financial analysis.

Fleetingly, but vividly, a part of my brain presented me with last summer’s picnic with friends and acquaintances. The conversation around the table of food was soothing to the digestive process, though it hopped from one topic to another, landing and stagnated for a quite while on a participant who declared that anybody who does not believe in Christ can not attain Eternal Salvation. The spontaneity surprised me; the fervency was transparent; grasping the moment to proselytize perhaps, déjà vu. I immediately checked her literal intentions. Indeed, it was so. I believe in Christ and what He represents, but I have to speak up, I thought, before I miss a chance and forever disfavour those who I know try their very best to live decently, responsibly and harmoniously with others, without even believing in God or knowing the details about Christ; there is something still lacking in them, I know; but who is perfect and what human should judge? Essentially, however, there is awareness in them of what is good, why it is important and how to practice it. I have to speak up, lest those who believe in Christ, but sin blatantly anyway, would find haven in such a statement, especially if they have been saturated with a rationalization that because only God can be perfect and no human is, their indiscretions can find excuse in a semblance of correctness or validity they condition themselves to believe. Lastly, but surely not the least, I have to speak up because Christ did not spread the Word in such a manner; because I know God loves us all and for this, He offers Salvation in different ways, which no creature of His can likely comprehend. So I asked with silence as a reply, “How does God treat his creature who lives like Christ without even knowing Him?” Man is not born evil and his soul is from God and the goodness in him can be fostered in so many ways. I went on, “Is it more literally correct to say that only God knows who will attain Eternal Salvation? There are guides towards this, but who’s to say that one is actually honest and sincere, or not, in practicing these? Righteous or not, can we really be absolutely certain with all our human definitive statements as to who attains Eternal Life?” The moment of discourse was ended by another who softly uttered that on the Last Day, what matters are the actions we’ve taken. Might I add that perhaps, just perhaps, what we did not take as well? Gospel according to St. Mark: 10, 26-27: “Who can be saved?” “Jesus said: “With men, it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God.”

The Son of God did not go about intimidating people or sowing fear. His words were comforting; his approach, humble and understanding, and these attracted people, followers. He welcomed everybody. He presented the truth on how to live and be enlightened in a manner that did not stigmatize, segregate, antagonize or polarize.

There are some evangelizing people with pure intentions and they are admirable. At times however, they are overshadowed by others who have mixed intentions and are found to be self-serving; this flows into the tone of their speech and body language. To these individuals, the ripples on how they go about handling their religion may go beyond their immediate awareness and may seem utterly benign to them. Unfortunately, for discerning listeners, observers, no élan can cover such flaw and the entire effort becomes void of true enlightenment. Rather, it develops into a proselytizing endeavour that likely forms a vexation to the physical nature of man, leaving his soul wanting.

As our souls are delicate and sacred, so are the spiritual motivations and religious disciplines that feed and nurture them; it doesn’t matter what sacred background these come from. It is with legitimate spiritual knowledge, sincere and unselfish intentions, care, humility, comforting words and good examples that interpreters of all religions and of God should approach the complexities of the physicality of man in order to reach and touch his soul genuinely.

Dean Koontz' Lone Survivor - Rene J. Dellosa

The sky is deep, the sky is dark.
The light of stars is so damn stark.
When I look up, I fill with fear.

If all we have is what lies here,
this lonely world, this troubled place,
then cold dead stars and empty space...

Well, I see no reason to persevere,
no reason to laugh or shed a tear,
no reason to sleep or ever to wake,
no promises to keep, and none to make,

And so at night I still raise my eyes
to study the clear but mysterious skies
that arch above us, as cold as stone.
Are you there, God? Are we alone?

Mr. Manuel V. Eco - by Lorna N. Figueroa

2006 Achievement Award For Arts & Culture

Mr. Manny Eco is known to be the champion maker of Sorsogon in the field of music arts. He is the trainor & conductor of Gintong Siyap Children’s Choir of Bacon East Central School, a National Finalist at the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 1987. Although Gintong Siyap was unfortunately subjected to a personal grudge of the late Professor Rivera who was one of NAMCYA judges, it captured the hearts of all who witnessed its exceptionally brilliant performances in the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Under the baton of Mr. Manny Eco, Gintong Siyap Children’s Choir of Bacon was the performer at the 200th anniversary of the Concert at the Park at the open stage of the Rizal Park & became the only children’s choir to perform in that program. They also performed at the National Teacher’s Convention in Manila in 1981.

Mr. Eco also made SORECO II Chorale the regional champion at KANTARAMA in 1990. He also created Bugkos Bicol, an NFA Choral Group as well as DPWH Singing Group. A string of champions in Kundiman fests is due to the intense dedication & passion for the true spirit of the Filipino of Manny Eco.

He put together & trained the first, if not one-of –its-kind men’s choir in the province of Sorsogon called Korong Manonggol that gave a very successful concert in December 2001.

Manny Eco, a Bacongnon who truly placed our Alma Mater & hometown’s name into the national consciousness in the field of music arts, is an alumnus of Bacon Central School from Batch 1953. For a few years he worked as office clerk & as radio announcer before he found his true calling – as his Alma Mater music teacher for several years.

Presently, a retired teacher, Manny remains to be active as the trainor & conductor of the Sorsogon City Chorale. Under his baton, the Sorsogon City Chorale performed at the WOW Philippines in Intramuros, Manila twice & won First Prize in the Provincial Kasanggayahan Choral Singing Contest. He was also invited to represent Sorsogon City in the Kalahi Cultural Caregiving Convention at the Albay Astrodome.

Manny V. Eco- truly a jewel of Bacon.

Manu Ginobli, SPURS Shooting guard

One of the best NBA players, 29 yrs. old from Argentina.

Tim Duncan, 3X NBA Finals MVP

31 yrs. old SPURS Forward-Center

Tony Parker, MVP NBA Championship

Tony Parker, 25 yrs.old is the point guard of SPURS. He also raps in French.

SPURS, 2007 NBA CHAMPION

Philippine Independence - Enrico D. Elizan

PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DECLARED: June 12, 1898

Someone asked if this day had any special meaning to me, a Filipino-American who had grown up here in the United States. I responded that I thought so, yes.

From a fact-based perspective, I agree that June 12 was the correct choice for the Philippines to celebrate her independence rather than July 4th. June 12th was the date that Filipino independence was proclaimed by General Emilio Aguinaldo and the Filipinos fighting Spain. It was the first proclaimation of Filipino independence from foreign rule. It set the stage for the development of the first Philippine republican government by the Malolos Congress. Sadly, it was short lived. But I felt it also set the stage for the continued desire for Philippine independence until it was finally and officially "granted" by the Americans on THEIR independence day, July 4th.

From a patriotic perspective, however, how I would have loved to been there! The unfurling of the first Filipino flag and the playing of the first Philippine National Anthem at Kawit. Witnessing the birth of a nation really is something I would have loved to have witnessed and been a part of. Many tie Filipino identity to this date.

I agree with Diosdado Macapagal when he wrote that the "celebration of a common independence day with the United States on July 4 caused considerable inconvenience. The American celebration dwarfed that of the Philippines. June 12, on the other hand, would be a greater inspiration to the youth who would consequently recall the heroes of the revolution against Spain and their acts of sublime heroism and martyrdom."

Here's the timeline around this historic Philippine date...

During the Spanish-American War, Filipino rebels led by Emilio Aguinaldo proclaim the independence of the Philippines after 300 years of Spanish rule.

By mid-August, Filipino rebels and U.S. troops had ousted the Spanish, but Aguinaldo's hopes for independence were dashed when the United States formally annexed the Philippines as part of its peace treaty with Spain. The Philippines, a large island archipelago situated off Southeast Asia, was colonized by the Spanish in the latter part of the 16th century. Opposition to Spanish rule began among Filipino priests, who resented Spanish domination of the Roman Catholic churches in the islands.

In the late 19th century, Filipino intellectuals and the middle class began calling for independence.

In 1892, the Katipunan, a secret revolutionary society, was formed in Manila, the Philippine capital on the island of Luzon. Membership grew dramatically, and in August 1896 the Spanish uncovered the Katipunan's plans for rebellion, forcing premature action from the rebels.

Revolts broke out across Luzon, and in March 1897, 28-year-old Emilio Aguinaldo became leader of the rebellion.

By late 1897, the revolutionaries had been driven into the hills southeast of Manila, and Aguinaldo negotiated an agreement with the Spanish. In exchange for financial compensation and a promise of reform in the Philippines, Aguinaldo and his generals would accept exile in Hong Kong. The rebel leaders departed, and the Philippine Revolution temporarily was at an end.

In April 1898, the Spanish-American War broke out over Spain's brutal suppression of a rebellion in Cuba.

The first in a series of decisive U.S. victories occurred on May 1, 1898, when the U.S. Asiatic Squadron under Commodore George Dewey annihilated the Spanish Pacific fleet at the Battle of Manila Bay in the Philippines.

From his exile, Aguinaldo made arrangements with U.S. authorities to return to the Philippines and assist the United States in the war against Spain. He landed on May 19, rallied his revolutionaries, and began liberating towns south of Manila.

On June 12, he proclaimed Philippine independence and established a provincial government, of which he subsequently became head. His rebels, meanwhile, had encircled the Spanish in Manila and, with the support of Dewey's squadron in Manila Bay, would surely have conquered the Spanish. Dewey, however, was waiting for U.S. ground troops, which began landing in July and took over the Filipino positions surrounding Manila.

On August 8, the Spanish commander informed the United States that he would surrender the city under two conditions: The United States was to make the advance into the capital look like a battle, and under no conditions were the Filipino rebels to be allowed into the city.

On August 13, the mock Battle of Manila was staged, and the Americans kept their promise to keep the Filipinos out after the city passed into their hands.

While the Americans occupied Manila and planned peace negotiations with Spain, Aguinaldo convened a revolutionary assembly, the Malolos, in September. They drew up a democratic constitution, the first ever in Asia, and a government was formed with Aguinaldo as president in January 1899.

On February 4, what became known as the Philippine Insurrection began when Filipino rebels and U.S. troops skirmished inside American lines in Manila. Two days later, the U.S. Senate voted by one vote to ratify the Treaty of Paris with Spain. The Philippines were now a U.S. territory, acquired in exchange for $20 million in compensation to the Spanish. In response, Aguinaldo formally launched a new revolt--this time against the United States. The rebels, consistently defeated in the open field, turned to guerrilla warfare, and the U.S. Congress authorized the deployment of 60,000 troops to subdue them.

By the end of 1899, there were 65,000 U.S. troops in the Philippines, but the war dragged on. Many anti-imperialists in the United States, such as Democratic presidential candidate William Jennings Bryan, opposed U.S. annexation of the Philippines, but in November 1900 Republican incumbent William McKinley was reelected, and the war continued.

On March 23, 1901, in a daring operation, U.S. General Frederick Funston and a group of officers, pretending to be prisoners, surprised Aguinaldo in his stronghold in the Luzon village of Palanan and captured the rebel leader. Aguinaldo took an oath of allegiance to the United States and called for an end to the rebellion, but many of his followers fought on.

During the next year, U.S. forces gradually pacified the Philippines. In an infamous episode, U.S. forces on the island of Samar retaliated against the massacre of a U.S. garrison by killing all men on the island above the age of 10. Many women and young children were also butchered. General Jacob Smith, who directed the atrocities, was court-martialed and forced to retire for turning Samar, in his words, into a "howling wilderness."

In 1902, an American civil government took over administration of the Philippines, and the three-year Philippine insurrection was declared to be at an end. Scattered resistance, however, persisted for several years. More than 4,000 Americans perished suppressing the Philippines--more than 10 times the number killed in the Spanish-American War. More than 20,000 Filipino insurgents were killed, and an unknown number of civilians perished.

In 1935, the Commonwealth of the Philippines was established with U.S. approval, and Manuel Quezon was elected the country's first president.

On July 4, 1946, full independence was granted to the Republic of the Philippines by the United States."

Election Highlights - Diane D. Garcia

This is the unofficial, tally as of May 20, 2007:

SENATORS COMELEC NAMFREL
as of 9:30pm as of 8:22pm

LEGARDA, Loren 4,399,726 5,633,410
ESCUDERO, Francis 4,294,609 5,504,222
VILLAR, Manuel Jr. 3,692,773 4,607,874
PANGILINAN, Francis 3,666,165 4,498,689
LACSON, Panfilo 3,552,968 4,861,789
AUINO, Benigno III 3,394,119 4,409,844
ARROYO, Joker 3,253,545 3,680,216
ANGARA, Edgardo 3,222,027 4,018,899
RECTO, Ralph 2,849,908 3,251,879
PICHAY, Prospero 2,688,133 3,157,923
HONASAN, Gregorio 2,684,597 3,672,038
ZUBIRI, Juan Miguel 2,674,602 3,313,590
Cayetano, Alan Peter 2,616,136 3,520,542
Defensor, Michael 2,614,426 3,053,347
Trillanes, Antonio 2,465,916 3,453,958

S O R S O G O N

Namfrel as of May 17,1pm:

GOVERNOR:

ESCUDERO, Antonio 15,499
HAMOR, Edwin 57,303
LEE, Inocencio 193
LEE, Sally 54,492

VICE GOVERNOR:

DERI, Oscar 48,722
LAURUNARIA, rENATO 44,905

CONGRESSMAN (1st District)

BALMACEDA, Cesar 9,181
BANARES, Jerry 1,504
DINEROS, Daniel 68
DURAN, Jose Vicente 18,568
ESCUDERO, Salvador III 35,729
OCAMPO, Isagani 372

(2nd District)

DE CASTRO, Alex 117
GOLPEO, Edna 60
GOLPEO, Ricardo 12,969
GONZALES, Rodolfo 16,355
RAMOS, Cyril 14,597
SOLIS, Jose 14,141

SORSOGON CITY

MAYOR

AQUINO,Rebecca 1,388
CHUA, Roman 1,419
DELGADO, Rosario Jr. 1,099
DIONEDA, Leovic 29,307
RODRIGUEZ, Robert 20,398

VICE MAYOR

ABEAR, Edmundo 4,701
ATUTUBO, Edmundo 22,575
GERONA, Rofedar 11,779
GO, Michael 8,749
LASTICA, Aristeo 246

Election Sidelights:

Imelda clan retains clout in Tacloban

Vilma Santos proclaimed as Batangas governor

Pacquiao accepts defeat

East meets West - Annie

Welcome Cavaliers, LeBron James & company!
Welcome Cavaliers coach Mike Brown former assistant to SPURS coach Gregg Poppovich.
San Antonio is waiting for you.

Congratulations for winning the Eastern Conference and the chance to play against the SPURS in the Finals.

San Antonio has been anticipating your arrival.

First game is on June 7, 2007 Thursday at 8:00 PM.

SPURS fans cancel your vacation & watch the big games.

Prepare for victory parade celebration.
As they say, Championship game was over when the SPURS beat the SUNS in the playoff.

SPURS, Western Conference Champion - Annie

Let’s break away from our topic to congratulate my favorite NBA team the SPURS for winning the Western Conference Finals.

CONGRATULATIONS!
And to the San Antonio fans, Congratulations!

We’re all looking forward for the big win against the Pistons or Cavaliers.

SPURS has been an NBA Champion in 1999, 2003 & 2005 & has been a Western Conference Champion for the 4th time in eight years.

SPURS defense, team work and their shooting ability are the major factors in their win tonight.
Great job guys!

SPURS fans buy your Western Conference Champions T shirts & caps tomorrow or wait for the big win against the East.

JAZZ, better luck next time, good play, nice try.

Once Upon A Time - Unknown

Once upon a time in the kingdom of Heaven, God was missing for six days. Eventually, Michael the Archangel found him, resting on the seventh day.

He inquired of God, "Where have you been?"God sighed a deep sigh of satisfaction and proudly pointed downwards through the clouds, "Look, Michael. Look what I've made." Archangel Michael looked puzzled and said, "What is it?"."It's a planet," replied God, "and I've put Life on it. I'm going to call it EARTH and it's going to be a great place of balance.

""Balance?" inquired Michael, still confused God explained, pointing to different parts of earth. "For example,northern Europe will be a place of great opportunity and wealth, but cold and harsh while southern Europe is going to be poor but sunny and pleasant." "I have made some lands abundant in water and other lands parched deserts. This one will be extremely hot, while this one will be very cold and covered in ice.

"The Archangel, impressed by God's work, then pointed to a group of islands and said, "What are those?" "Ah," said God. "That's the PHILIPPINES, the most glorious place on earth. There are beautiful beaches, rivers, mountains and forests. The people from the PHILIPPINES are going to be handsome, modest, intelligent and humorous and they are going to be found traveling the world. They will be extremely sociable, hardworking and high achieving, and they will be known throughout the world as carriers of peace and love."

Michael gasped in wonder and admiration but then proclaimed, "What about balance, God? You said there would be balance."God replied wisely, "Wait until you see the IDIOTS I put in the government !!!”

In Honor Of The Quintessential Companion - Jenny

Homo sapiens Mother and Mother Hen had one moment of reckoning. The former’s 4-year-old son wandered into their backyard, which was actually designated by Mother Hen to be her family’s territory. Like most animals, chickens are also objects of interest in storybooks; this landed Mother Hen and her brood in the prime spot mentioned. The boy’s parents raised them to show as much as possible, how some animals in storybooks appear in real life---a way of enhancing the children’s learning process. While Mother Hen was busy with a worm, her chicks played and practiced the use of their beaks. Unbeknown to her, the little boy, who was simply captivated by the image of the cutest chicks he saw in his storybooks, gently picked one up. All chicks chirped SOS. There was an oversight: His Mom forgot to add a reminder in her reading sessions with him, that mothers of all species have this natural, caring characteristic that knows no bounds. With a few flaps of her wings, Mother Hen was on the boy’s shoulder and had delivered a sharp peck or two. The boy’s scream horrified Homo sapiens Mother and both Mother species had the not-so-dark side of Motherhood got the better of them. When it was over, not a trace of rancour surfaced between species; both understood their roles and their implicit common goal. They would still meet and pass each other several times with concerted calm and poise.

The real event could have been a Kurt Vonnegut material and could be embellished in another manuscript with the Homo sapiens Mother badly hurt when Mother Hen’s beak landed on a Mother of a zit and an example of the colour red would put the little boy in therapy; and the pain it caused prompted Mother Nature to throw in the towel and so, rain trickled on them; and, which entire event would forever be among the sad experiences of the Homo sapiens Mother who left her Motherland much later for a country where urban life prohibits such nurturing of animals and where some mind-boggling Mother of challenges confronted her motherhood-----that would be shoddy and corny though, and Mother Oprah would be terribly dismayed should it land in her book club. However, it would emphasize, even in the tritest way, the empowering, strict, yet comforting and caring effect of the word, “Mother”. Imagine the actual role and the responsibilities it entails! For most, we know what it takes, and rightfully so, because in part, or more suitably as a whole, earth should have humans with good, solid foundation from which to build character and this starts from……until motherly possible and reasonably required. The use of the word has evolved, albeit figuratively, but it still denotes a distinct power and it commands an unspoken respect, not a modicum of it, mind you, that any slight or profanity directed to any mother, biological or otherwise, could incite trouble.

And there are verbs, adverbs and adjectives that should best describe our mothers and the sacred unspoken, unwritten pact they entered into with their children, with nature, with fellow humans and with God. Real-life scenarios render more concrete substance to these parts of speech:

I learned of a single lady who included in her prayers, that if God should see it fit that she be married, that she be kindly given a man who would be a good father to her offsprings, for whom she entreated with such sincere reliance on His mercy and love, to be good, God-loving, healthy, intelligent, good-mannered, responsible children. She even sought the intercession of the Blessed Mother. As she discussed this with bosom friends, she made it clear that she knew beforehand what she should do as mother in order to obtain such favour from God. She also explained that she was aware of factors beyond her control, which could negatively affect her efforts to bring up such children. The thought of a juvenile delinquent scared her to no end; therefore, she knew who to turn to. In line with this awareness and more likely a concern supported by love, I also learned of another mother who asked her daughter to consider single blessedness or marriage with no children because it would be terribly painful for both of them to see children brought up in a deteriorating world. Of course the cynics and skeptics would label this “selfish” without fully understanding the deeper meaning of maternal love and the true character of both women. Upon hearing this, I for one had a fleeting thought, but because I know the women, I succumbed to the wonders of motherly love.

The single lady actually got the entire package. Now, talk about rapport! Needless to say, she unceasingly continues to pray, rosaries and all, for her children’s safety and certainly for the success of their endeavours, with the fulfillment of their aspirations, found in just and good ways. The children are now adults and the lady mother has a new prayer. Characteristically thorough, she asked God, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Mother Mary’s help again, for her children to be granted good, God-loving, healthy, intelligent, good-mannered, responsible, Roman Catholic spouses who would help rear good children as well.” What a stretch! To her surprise, these followed: Her daughter had a Roman Catholic boyfriend who did not practice his faith. They parted amicably without third-party intervention. The next boyfriend is a very decent, loving, good-mannered, highly educated, very considerate, well-balanced, highly intelligent atheist. Her son’s serious girlfriend is of another religion, but, both are getting along happily. The rest of the children have not yet found their supposed soul mates. The lady mother, though perplexed, but without any ill-feeling, respected the daughter’s and son’s choices. She promptly changed her prayer, deleting the “Roman Catholic” portion and adding, “Should they be of different faith, bless them still O Lord, that they, and their children and their children’s children would live peaceful, happy, safe, healthy, comfortable, prosperous lives and let them not forget to help others.” My, if the mother can only physically live forever, so many prayers will probably land in “stampitas”. But who’s to define a mother’s love in mere parts and figures of speech; who’s to know where and when mother’s love end?

I couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of a mother, quite garrulous in most topics, but dumbfounded when asked by a confused son, about some details on sex. He said he didn’t quite get the specifics. She cringed, she looked up, wished her husband were around to take over, she impulsively wish for a pluvial downpour, an easy way out she thought. Time stopped and the suspense was riveting; she finally took a grip and faced the challenge. I overheard her whisper some facts, with an assuring promise to continue the topic at home. The boy held her hand and said, “You’re the best, Mom.”

Pity the mother who lays sleepless in the night for failing to meet some standards of Motherhood. Guilt is never a good companion. Somebody has to remind her; she is no God, nor a demi one either; accountants, doctors, lawyers and engineers hold degrees and still, mistakes are everywhere --- what more a mother whose entire work is not exclusive in any university prospectus.

There is another mother, a career woman, who sought the advice of a respectable pediatrician regarding baby food; she wanted the best for her baby. She was shocked by what she requested: pulverized, cooked, with no oil or any liquid, dried anchovies, blended into “lugaw” and alternately scheduled on feeding days with pig’s brain similarly cooked in “lugaw”, and/or scheduled as well with mashed or finely minced vegetables. And there should be the daily “kalamansi” juice. And of course, the daily bath. With her office work, the temptation to just grab commercial baby foods was too attractive. Motherly love prevailed and so there were countless bond paper, which became an accessory to obtain that pulverized dried anchovies, and which also led to another use of a hammer. And needless to say, there were also numerous days of grimacing while buying and preparing the pig’s brain.

How sweet of a mother who agreed to go shopping for the impeccable birthday gift her son wanted her to pick for that captivating teenage girl in class. And when it was her daughter’s turn to declare her object of infatuation, she was likewise sought for her wise opinion.

And I learned of a mother who cried endlessly when upon giving birth, she could not take home her mysteriously sick infant. Her heart longed for her, and more so, every time she saw a baby. When seen holding somebody else’s child during the period of her infant’s hospitalization, one could envision some Mother of a container of tears in a woman’s body. As if this was not enough, the infant had to be operated on with a realistic 50 survival rate and years of tedious, expensive care. With no second thoughts and dismissing an alternate advice, she immediately nodded to the procedure not knowing that the ultimate pain was already prancing around her heart. At exactly 32 days after the infant was born, and like a thief in the night, the unimaginable pain invaded her heart. I guess it was so terrible that she said she won’t even wish it to any foe and the loss actually made her angry at God. “Terrible” is an understatement actually, because there’s nothing like the pain of a mother losing a child. At the end, she mellowed and thought what it must have been for the universal Mother named Mary, who even with having the closest rapport with God, had to endure the horrible sight of a suffering Son and His death only a few could comprehend.

I could not forget the mother who sacrificed a promising career and had an option of a comfortable retirement pay due just within three years at the time she decided to be a full-time mother. She figured it was time to instill more discipline, and structure a learning method geared towards responsible personal, social development and academic success. So, she effectively taught her child of 3, with great consideration for her youth, reading, writing, simple arithmetic, and basic social grace and etiquette. Religion was not neglected. She did the same for the next ones. As the children grew, lessons became elaborate. There were no regrets for the career that slipped away.

I was enthused by a headline that declared a mother’s sacrifice of handing her own malevolent son to the police. It was a given that the Mother of a container of tears was once more at play in this heart-wrenching situation. She has done everything to no avail; I bet she realized what her son’s demeanour portends and she was reminded of her pact with God, with other humans, with nature and with her son. What a contrast this was to the mother who unknowingly remained standing and clapping, while others have stopped, when her son finished his valedictory speech! And what an emphasis, when the next son gave her the same joy! Similarly so, for the mother, who because of humble roots, never had thought that a daughter would be so applauded as she masterfully delivered a difficult piano piece in the company of professors, musicians and scholars, in a well-respected venue and she, seemingly, silently floated with the accolades.

I have great admiration for single mothers, whether with a brood or just a child, who raised such well-directed children despite all odds. Picture a mother, with nine children and with an assassinated husband! Where, when, how do you pick up the pieces and proceed with life in such circumstances? And the mother who strives hard to care, nurture and provide for a daughter while reliving daily the death of her husband by seeing suffering patients who barely miss death or who are actually at its mercy. She has never showed pain and instead, continues to help others, relatives, nieces for tuition fees, and poor people, not one of whom she could put a face. Similarly, I say “kudos” to the badly-beaten mother, who stood up, took on the father’s role and refused to give up hope for the sake of a son. She educated herself while maintaining her dignity, landed respectable jobs with no help from anybody, did not acquiesce to unethical practices of pretentious co-workers, helped others too, and then……….got what she deserved: a son who graduated valedictorian and on full scholarship into university, respect from everybody, and friends who will forever be there for her.

And there was a mother who even in the company of death, did not forget her children. A visit to her oldest daughter on interment day seemed the only way to tell her to take good care of the youngest sibling in the family of eight. She did visit her again one very tiring day of handling chores and toddlers. Daughter fell asleep in a couch without the husband’s knowledge. Her husband was awakened by the sound of the phone that fell. Upon seeing her in the couch, he carefully helped her to the bedroom. Daughter remembered the next day that she somehow saw, while half asleep or not, she couldn’t be sure, her Mama accidentally hitting the phone when she walked passed her in the couch. The husband’s jaw dropped.

And many a mother would offer their lives so that their children would live and have their dreams fulfilled. There are also those who offer God in gratitude, the happiness enjoyed in having all children around in the simplest of activities and discussions.

These are our mothers; their stories may be different, but the verbs, adverbs, adjectives and figures of speech are the same for the transparency of their purposes, sacrifices, emotions, and humanity. To all mothers, by blood and by unselfish, dedicated service to children,

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

Jenny

Ranks Of A Hospital - Unknown

Surgeon:
Leaps tall buildings in a single bound
Is more productive than a train
Is faster than a speeding bullet
Walks on water
Talks with God

Internist:
Leaps short buildings in a single bound
Is more powerful than a switch engine
Is faster than a speeding BB gun
Walks on water if the sea is calm
Talks with God if special request is approved

General Practitioner:
Leaps short buildings with a running start and favorable winds
Is almost as powerful as a switch engine
Can fire a speeding bullet
Walks on water in an indoor swimming pool
Is occasionally addressed by God

Resident:
Barely clears a picket fence
Loses tug-of-war with a train
Can sometimes handle a gun without inflicting self-injury
Swims well
Talks with animals

Intern:
Makes high skid marks on a wall when trying to leap buildings
Is run over by a train
Is not issued ammunition
Dog paddles
Talks to walls

Medical Student:
Runs into buildings
Recognizes a train 2 out of 3 times
Wets himself with a water pistol
Cannot stay afloat without a life preserver
Mumbles to himself

Nurse:
Lifts buildings and walks under them
Kicks trains off the track
Catches speeding bullets with her teeth and eats them
Freezes water with a single glance
The Nurse IS God!!!!

Annie lifts a rock while Mabel watched.

Garden of the Gods, Colorado
Summer, 1992

One Solitary Life - Rene J. Dellosa

Many years, while walking, I picked up a discarded small book in the sidewalk. The first page of the book was the foreword titled ONE SOLITARY LIFE. I am going to reprint here word for word of this literary piece.

ONE SOLITARY LIFE

He was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in another village. He worked in a carpenter shop until he was thirty and then for three years was an itinerant preacher. He never wrote a book. He never held an office. He never owned a home. He never traveled two hundred miles from the place where he was born. He never did one of the things that usually accompany greatness. He had no credentials but himself.

Although he walked the land over, curing the sick, giving sight to the blind, healing the lame, and raising people from the dead, the top established religious leaders turned against him. His friends ran away. He was turned over to enemies. He went through the mockery of a trial. He was spat upon, flogged and ridiculed. He was nailed to a cross between two thieves. While he was dying, the executioners gambled for the only piece of property he had on earth, and that was his robe. When he was dead, he was laid in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend.

Nineteen wide centuries have come and gone, and today he is the central Figure of the human race and the Leader of the column of progress.

All the armies that ever marched, and all the navies that were ever built, and all the parliaments that ever sat, and all the kings that ever reigned, put together have not affected the life of man upon this earth as has that ONE SOLITARY LIFE.
- Source Unknown

From a book called "Living Words of Jesus." This book has become my companion for many years now.


Above piece is so relevant, it's the season of Lent.

Only Love Is Holy - Lorna N. Figueroa

As the Lenten Season comes closer, may we remember to make this a season for reflection.

I would like to share with you this poem that tells us simply but eloquently about God’s love.

God’s love is unconditional. He is not a jealous and punishing Father because “punishment brings satisfaction only to twisted minds”. Our Father wants us to lovingly communicate with Him simply like a child to a father not so much with “ holy words” because “words are not holy; only love is holy.” He does not make bargains with us; does not give us more blessings in exchange for spending more hours in church or reciting holy words. He blesses us with more gifts in life because He wants to and He knows we derserve more.

God’s love is also merciful. At times when we forget that we are merely His creation, when we turn away from Him, “misunderstand or even disobey His words”, He is there, just waiting for us to run back to Him, talk to Him once more, ask for mercy and forgiveness. He is waiting with open arms to welcome us back again.

MAGIC GOD

Dick Summer

First, God lived alone and God was magic. But there was nothing to care that he was God.
And magic isn’t magic to the magician.

So God used His magic. He struck light and planets into time. And they were good because they were God's. But they were so much less than God.They couldn't care for Him. And the great God was still alone.

Then God used His magic to make living things that could swim and walk and fly.
They obeyed every word God spoke… for they were His. They never questioned Him.
But magic grows on questions that magicians never answer.
So God still hungered for a creature who could care

Then with majestic humor, God made a Mardi Gras king. God shared His own magic with a
muddy ape … Who came to call himself Man.

Like all creatures, man was God’s. But unlike all the rest some of God was man’s.
And God’s laughter thunders as man pretends to be more magic than he is mud.
Only God knows the measure of magic in each man.
God measures each man separately. Man must do no less for God.

If God has done so much to have a creature who can believe in Him …
When I believe, I satisfy God. God could not be satisfied if He did not believe in me.
And so I may call Him my God.

My God doesn’t listen for holy words. Words aren’t holy … Only love is holy.
He doesn't send hunger, sickness, and bad luck to warn me away from some hell.

My God has balanced the world so that it neither gives nor takes.
Clouds become rain, becomes ocean, becomes clouds …
For the arctic, there is the tropic … for man … woman …for harvest, hunger … for life, death.

Eternal hell would be out of balance for a handful of years spent on such a limited heaven
as this earth.

The only hell I know is my own guilt. My God never calls me guilty because He needs me for His
satisfaction. And punishment brings satisfaction only to twisted minds.

I sometimes call myself guilty, because I’m not as loving as my God.

My God doesn’t swap me a better job for an hour of singing and collection baskets every
Saturday or Sunday. He doesn’t have to make bargains.

My God has seen my hands in many different kinds of cookie jars.
But He’s also seen them break lunches in half for hungry friends to share.
And my God understands what it means to be hungry.

He’s seen my hands on other women. But He’s also seen me hold my woman...loving...sleeping through the night.
And my God understands what it means to be lonely.

My God, You’ve let Yourself need me and without Your will I would not be.
It is sometimes hard to live with one who needs you.
Hurts are so much deeper than between those who only partly care.

When I misunderstand, or even disobey Your word …
Please remember You made me this way, so You wouldn’t be alone.

Then have mercy, Magic God.

Magic God, a poem by Dick Summer, Lovin Touch III, Bantam Books, 1974, USA

Revisiting Idealism - Jenny

The mind is the great source of most of the material things and experiences man had and continues to acquire, good or bad. We marvel at how much really is in there, such that science has not stopped exploring it. Even this process starts with or goes back to the thinking mind. The heart (emotions) is the mind’s collaborator. Both have something to do with ingenuity from which standards to live by, inventions, arts and masterpieces are generated. Mind and heart never stop unraveling what may be of use to man; so, we have a continuous flow of ideas, which subconsciously or not, is also a spillover of the desire for perfection, of the quest for idealism personified. Take the car for example; the retouching and modifying never stops and what better manifestation than the annual auto shows. The array of cars is impressive. The concept cars alone never cease to amaze. The ingenuity of man! Surely, auto makers assemble highly skilled people whose total dedication is expected to deliver the car of superb performance which is aimed not only for the present, but also, for the future. It does not come easy. As always, there are odds to overcome, and just like any parallel undertaking, sacrifices to make. So, the engineer may have to work on the design or a concept late into the night, while foregoing the warmth and comfort of home, just would a virtuoso in rehearsal, for the sake of excellence. They remain unwavering, they stick to their ideas, which sometimes don’t work, but, they don’t give up, one probable reason why car companies have been around for so long. (Competition? Oh, yes, that too; but, let’s leave it out for another day.)

The making of a car has many intricacies with distinct forces that should all come together to form the reality perceived or the semblance of it. The design, quality materials, engine layout, cylinders, the horsepower, the rpm, distribution of torque, the turbine, its capacity for fuel economy and low emissions, the total weight of the car, the need for 4-wheel drive perhaps, or seats that would hold one’s body more like in rally cars, enhanced overall balance, hardened steel cage, and many more---all combined in harmony by man’s wisdom, dedication and determination to pursue that one refinement and power of a car. It is akin to an opus, a symphony; where timing and precision deliver an enjoyable experience, exemplary finesse and prowess, a masterpiece that leaves an impression of the mind and heart. The impressions they make is the reality they shape. Thus, we see highly manufactured or meticulously made cars with exceptional rhythm and performance, remarkable geometry, aerodynamics and safety features yet to be surpassed. What a product of a pursuit of perfection! Close to perfection. Some flaws: seats not pleasing to those who do not watch their diet, and interior spaces of which a leggy Ichabod Crane would be annoyed. And we could sigh for the price this kind of cars command and sweat with frustration on a luggage compartment that just welcomes a bucket of snacks. Objectively, however, the dedicated effort was for that remarkable refinement and power of a car. Purchase prices for a select few, seating and compartments, only for certain sizes---these are products of calculated subjectivity and issues foregone in aiming for the utmost symmetry demanded by an uncorrupted objectivity. What really stand out are the imbuing benefits and quality to be treasured and enjoyed for long. So are the blueprints of good standards that will usher sensitive, responsible creativity to the future.

Life demands similar idealism. It is one conceived and fostered as the principles of proper survival and responsible living are defined and examined. This exercise is as complex and intricate as the variables that characterize mankind and its environment. Objectively, and in the greater scheme of things, idealism is the consciousness or belief and/or pursuit of perfection or something close to it, carefully envisioned with a fine perception of what ought to be, measured fundamentally and traditionally by the expected results of common harmony and well-being. It is strengthened by disciplines, spiritual beliefs and by the realization of an all-knowing Supreme Being (regardless of how each one perceives this to be), whose preaching apart from the love and respect for Him, all comes down to just loving one’s neighbour. And when we think of perfection, regardless of how elusive it can be, what come to mind almost instantly are things beautiful both physical and spiritual, good and endearing, and things to live for openly for a long time; certainly not the perfect crime or the perfect illicit relationship or the perfect invasion (home or country) or more chillingly, the perfect strategy for ethnic cleansing.

It is an argument that idealism remains only in our conscious mind, far from turning into reality. Nevertheless, we see reality exist because of the idealism formed by the deliverers of reality. In most cases, the reality obtained from the idealism introduced is not the exact representation of the ideals formed. For idealism to at least enter the realm of reality, it requires fortitude, wisdom, dedication, sacrifice and discipline, and if it is encompassing, effective dissemination, perhaps calling for examples and role models. This process requires specific goals and never ceases to be daunting since idealism is a labyrinth of paths representing other ideals, each one branching out from another, oftentimes, slowly, yet invaluably loosening the grasp on objectivity. In essence, it is subjective because we humans interact, have different needs, endeavours and aspirations, be they communal or personal, prompting us to form different ideals, to establish our own concepts of perfection and how to achieve it. As such, idealism swings anywhere between good, distorted and bad.

Caught in the web of ideas/ideals is how we affect each other, whether we comprehend this or not; no matter how remotely indirect these things that impact us are. The idealism behind varying human activity can objectively integrate; therefore, elevating congruity, unity, better communication and cooperation; or it can subjectively clash, be aggressively intercepted and can be polarizing. Given this, idealism can inspire, at the very least, to move us to strive towards near-perfection of what is good for almost everybody, or, it can poison our minds and character towards the ultimate destruction of most of humanity.

Idealism is the force on which our freedoms were predicated. Freedom begets rights and more creativity. Creativity begets responsibility and accountability, which beget laws, moral standards, regulations, and governance. This goes on as more human and environmental categories are identified; thus, again, the labyrinth of ideals. One would like to think that as humanity discovers its God-given talents, creativity and advancement of all kinds would be better utilized overwhelmingly by the more fortunate who have easy access to them, towards mutual understanding and collaboration while overshadowing iconoclastic attitudes--such that whatever immorality, suffering and chaos would be reduced to a level where most of us would be able to secure a certain kind of assurance that it is a remote case; that it is contained and the chances of it happening again is slim and would not be as grave or gruesome as previously experienced; that there are reliable individuals looking after each one’s well-being. What a disappointment! More alarming are the emergence of more questionable idealism and/or the replication of what had been dysfunctional ages ago. And this is very welcoming to marginalized unguided minds and dispositions. So, we see a labyrinth of insidious and destructive idealism similarly opened. Paranoia seeps in and defense mechanisms of every kind are activated. It is equally challenging to see this kind of idealism unfold despite awareness and clamour for justice and order, despite the desire to help others, despite various studies on behavioral patterns. It appears that every effort to help and cooperate is met by an opposite idealism not wanting in cynicism and skepticism.

As was in the old ages and perhaps more increasingly now, humanitarian and egalitarian idealism is frowned upon as it clashes with materialistic, power-driven societal structure and the pragmatism conceived as business palates are shamelessly described by greed and as the race to be ahead of anyone, everyone, becomes intense, every minute, every hour. We see the thriving of plutocratic tendencies, of insensitive elitism aimed to demean instead of vouching more focused innovations towards uplifting mankind’s overall status, of varied rebellion and crimes, of an environment catering to catastrophes and mutations of diseases, of blatant gaucheries, of parenting go awry, of relationships broken, of entertainment trivializing human dignity and integrity, of pretenses and charades in every form. These are even happening in societies asserting a dominant religion that preaches the love of God and a faith never lacking in proprieties and ascetic principles.

To some undiscerning individuals, absorbed in finding the easy way out, intellectual dishonesty is the solution of choice. Never mind eliminating or cutting the causes of a problem, just match it with what seems to be a balancing effect—a new philosophy of survival it seems. Thus, we see dignity proclaimed by material lavishness, by unnecessary bellicose stances, by arrogance masked by a supposedly required assertiveness, by trees planted to address environmental issues without abiding by the more serious requirements of the Kyoto protocol---these, amidst citizenry wallowing in poverty, amidst daily life accentuated with graft and corruption in every move, amidst politicians of glaring incompetence and shady backgrounds and citizens taking advantage of the excesses they provide during election, amidst bleak infrastructure, amidst abhorrent pretentious service, amidst disasters, and diseases. What idealism!

Over the years, individuals, societies, communities and countries have undergone a certain socioeconomic programming, which if comprehensively explored, is actually self-defeating. It also unbelievably generates an acceptance that just perpetuates character degeneration. It has almost become the norm of daily life. This is incomprehensible with the advent of more research and discovery of every kind and of more precise definition and understanding of variables and statistical analysis. Almost everyone is in a loop with barely a solution, with ultra-flexible idealism that conforms not to the tenets which prolong decent living and survival, but with distorted idealism that only serves the immediate needs with no regard for decorum or glorifies fleeting whims, to an extent that there seems to be a contagious complacency (or self-denial perhaps). These are circumstances of negligence and/or intended choices lacking the foresight of an idealism that could spare the heavy costs on the future of our children.

Fortunately, order is still the choice of the majority, a sign of wisdom and intellect; and man is not born evil, an endowment that with proper handling can go a long way to sustain an idealism this world needs. The challenges are matching, the tasks, complex.


A footnote: An old movie, “Das Boot”, depicted a seemingly doomed U-boat and its crew during World War ll. All essential devices appeared irreparable after it was bombed and it sunk beyond its limit. It was apparent that everybody had to give his best to alleviate the predicament and ultimately get out of it. One crew kept praying without lifting a finger. Somebody had to address him effectively in order to understand the situation. Meanwhile, obscured, was a nervous member doing his task while softly entreating God’s help. Everyone provided the utmost assistance needed by the overworked engineer. However, one wrecked part was followed by another and another. Oxygen was running out and almost everybody gave up hope, but with the unstoppable engineer, they were still driven to continue the struggle to fix things up, narrowed down to just the more vital parts and devices. At the end, the U-boat started to lift, much to the relief of everyone. The captain murmured, “All it needed was good people”.

Highlights - Diane D. Garcia

Mayor Benito Doma of Prieto-Diaz, Sorsogon said that he and farmer Leoncio Detablan of Lupi of this town who made contact with a heron suspected of being a carrier of the avian flu remained in good health and showed no symptoms of the dreaded disease. Detablan had earlier caught the bird that had a stainless steel tag labeled Tokyo, Japan and he subsequently brought the bird to Mayor Doma. After some examinations, he ordered it buried. Result was...it was not infected after all. And that's the good news.
Migratory birds for its vast mangrove forest are frequenting Prieto-Diaz. The town is included in the bird-flu watch list.
This prompted the World Health Organization to visit Prieto-Diaz to check on the report.
Meanwhile, Sorsogon Gov. Raul Lee called for all municipal mayors and health officials in the province and discussed the proper monitoring activities to prevent entry of suspected bird-flu carriers.

Twelve opposition bets top the recent nationwide survey conducted by the research group, IBON Foundation. Top runners are: Loren Legarda, Sorsogon Rep. Francis Escudero, Taguig-Pateros Alan Peter Cayetano, Sen. Panfilo Lacson, Sen. Manny Villar, Sen.
Francis Pangilinan, Sen. Gringo Honasan, San Juan Mayor Joseph "JV" Ejercito and Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that their equipment for monitoring Mount Bulusan in Sorosogn has been stolen. Thieves also stole copper wire phone cables at their Legaspi City observatory, in a separate incident.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources lifted the suspension on Australian company Lafayette Philippines Inc.'s mining operations in Rapu-Rapu Island, Albay. The operations was suspended last Nov. 2005 after the site was plagued by mining tailings which brought health hazard to the coastal communities and reported fish kill in the nearby river.
The decision is good for Lafayette but a grim one for the communities within and around Rapu-Rapu Island.


Ref: Philippine Daily Inquirer & Channel 7 News

Give - Rene J. Dellosa

Here's a poem based on the Bible about caring and sharing from an unknown author. This is relevant in these times where there is so much natural disasters everywhere, hurricanes, tsunamis, typhoons, volcanic eruptions, floods, earthquakes generating so much deaths and sufferings on the survivors. If those were not enough, we also have those man-made disasters like the ethnic cleansing in the Darfur region of Sudan and Somalia,and the civil war in Iraq with unimaginable catastrophic results.

GIVE -Author, Unknown

I do not know how long I'll live
But while I live Lord, Let me Give some comfort to someone in need

By a smile or nod, kind words or deed
And let me do what e'er I can
to ease things for my fellow men
I want naught but to do my part
to lift a tired or weary heart to change folks' frowns to smiles again
And then I will not have lived in vain
And I'll not care how long I'll live
If I can GIVE--and GIVE-
And GIVE

my love to my family and to all of you Frost after 22 years
Annie's front yard - Jan.17,2007

Poem by Elizabeth Browning - Anonymous

How do I love thee?

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breath and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and Ideal Grace

I love thee to the level of everyday’s
Most quiet need, by sun & candlelight.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right,
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise

I love thee with the passion to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood faith
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints- I love thee with the breath
Smiles, tears, of all my life- and if God choose,
I shall love thee better after death.

Happy Valentines!

Magdaleno & Pelagia Diaz - Lorna N. Figueroa

Notable Bacongnons

The 2006 Bacon Central School Alumni Association, Inc. Achievement Award for Entrepreneurship goes to this couple who raised their children & succeeded in giving them higher education out of their joint effort in retail & bicycle repair service.

Magdaleno & Pelagia Diaz are both alumni of Bacon Central School from the same batch, class of 1936. Both are true-blue Bacongnons. Dalino was born in Basud, Poblacion on July 21, 1923 & Yaying was born in Barangay Rawis on June 26, 1919.

As a young man Danilo worked as storekeeper in the old Cosmos store in Sorsogon, later known as Wilson store until the couple got married & started having a family. Having a growing family was more than just a challenge; it was ruly difficult especially for the head of the family. However, having the entrepreneur spirit in him, he learned everything he could about retail trading & bicycle repairs and decided to make it on his own.
His wife Yaying supported him all the way. Hence, they started their own retail & bicycle- repair service. With faithful devotion to God, hard work, very minimal capitalization and the loving & supportive tandem of Dalino & Yaying , they were able to sustain their family’s needs.

Their children are now well established in their chosen fields of endeavor. The eldest & only son, Dan Diaz is a commerce graduate. He is presently working with the Rizal Banking Corporation as the RCBC Bank Branch Manager in Naga City.
The second child, Marilou Diaz (now Isaac) more popularly known by her nickname Girlie is a Nursing graduate. She is now based in New Jersey, USA presently working at St. Joseph Hospital in Paterson, New Jersey.

The 3rd child Connie Diaz is an AB graduate. Due to poor health, her family decided not to let her be employed. However she helps her father run their small business. The youngest Julieta Diaz-Santos is a Commerce graduate & a CPA. She is now based in Ontario, Canada & presently working as computer consultant to different types of industries.

The small business they established is stable up to this day & has made its mark in the small trade & industry sector of Bacon. It is where bicycle & tricycle owners go for repairs of their vehicles & where most Bacon’s youth go to buy their first bike.

The couple, Magdaleno & Pelagia Diaz, probably are not aware of it, however they have truly given a big contribution to the development of their community with their entrepreneurship. Because of this, they are indeed achievers.

Bacon Blog

Thank you for publishing your articles and comments.

This Blog is for us, for all Bacongnons & for anyone interested in heritage, culture, news & issues of our hometown, Bacon.
This is the site to reconnect/find long lost relatives & friends, reminisce & share significant events wherever we may be.

Also, we would like to expand our topics that may somehow relate to Bacon culture/heritage so as not exclude those who have been gone far from home & away so long, and for the new generation who have not seen/lived in Bacon whose parents are Bacongnons and are now finding their roots.

Although there are some Bacongnons w/ large & active families, it does not mean that this Blog is for them alone; this is for all Bacongnons.
Anyone who wants to publish an article or commentary may do so without being a regular contributor. There’s no rule as to length or style. Free speech & expression are encouraged.
As requested, we are leaving the anonymous blogger to some Bacongnons who does not wish to be identified.
Please feel free to answer some of the questions in the comment section. In as much as I would like to answer them all, there will be times when I may not be able to attend to our Blog due to personal commitments or I might not be well informed on the topic being asked, so feel free to answer if you know the topic well.

Personal information will be given out thru email at baconsorsogon@gmail.com after consent has been obtained from the person being asked or he can give it out himself.

Please submit your poetry/verses. We enjoy reading them; they’re my favorites.

We thank you for your support & don’t forget to tell your relatives & friends about our site.

“Mabuhay kita gabos!”

Int'l Bacongnons

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Calm after the storms