tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43195280528162175972024-03-13T21:39:13.360+08:00The Pinoy WarriorIts all about the Philippines, the Filipino Culture and being Pinoy, whether modern or old-school. Its about the Warrior in every Filipino and everything that makes us Pinoy. Made in the Philippines.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger145125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-81364999882417169982022-05-28T02:41:00.002+08:002022-05-28T02:42:13.177+08:00Philippines Post Pandemic<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4XTpOJsXSobQSiDb-ePMYoYigYMueFsPFUBxx5usQk1WTL_WlIP5R_00aKzqcx2lhuy5t9ArPlm9S5uQGEEGSMWuXorCF5vO8rK4V62kJVShHUFaveqYcEWYIS9t7SyjGbEnL8zJ4d4Q7vTo1T3pwSjkSwpXK8Dcm1X2oE652GHyPGQ2zylvrQLH/s1200/Vaccine.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4XTpOJsXSobQSiDb-ePMYoYigYMueFsPFUBxx5usQk1WTL_WlIP5R_00aKzqcx2lhuy5t9ArPlm9S5uQGEEGSMWuXorCF5vO8rK4V62kJVShHUFaveqYcEWYIS9t7SyjGbEnL8zJ4d4Q7vTo1T3pwSjkSwpXK8Dcm1X2oE652GHyPGQ2zylvrQLH/s320/Vaccine.png" width="320" /></a>3.69 million cases recorded. 69 million vaccinated. 60,455 deaths. These are the numbers of the Philippines as of today. So what now?</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">COVID isn't gone. It should still around. Even with more than 50% of the population vaccinated, it is impossible to develop long term immunity to COVID infections. In fact, after vaccination, it is generally accepted that in 3-6 months, a person can get infected again. We've never achieved herd immunity. It was impossible under the rate of performance of medical intervention done. If that's the case, then everything was just a show and the concept of protection sold to everyone is superficial </p><p style="text-align: justify;">So what changed? Filipinos do not believe anymore. Nobody even talks about these things anymore. We started not to care because its no longer a huge concern. And it took two years for us to do this. And in those two years, nothing substantial was done or had happened to effectively stop a virus from spreading. It was two years of wasted time that stalled our lives, crippled our way of living, and disrupted our peace of mind.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Each one of us is walking out of this traumatized, damaged and with disability. We are walking out to a new world where the economy is broken and opportunities are scarce. All because the world and our leaders had chosen to believe in fear. Those lockdowns and restrictions, these testing and screening requirements, they're all a waste. The only thing that lockdowns and restrictions had stopped are the lives of people. No one even wants to willingly get tested and screened anymore, not worth the expense if its not a requirement. It did not stop the virus and it was such a waste. Up until now and maybe some time in the future, we will still be paying for this waste.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The hardships and the effects of the pandemic wasn't really brought upon by the virus itself. It is our reaction to it, how leaders had organized responses, and how we adjusted our lives to these. So much resources wasted on face shields, masks, air purifiers, and thousands of other products said to control the spread of the virus. So much energy spent on managing restrictions, adjusting our way of living, and continuing our lives. And now, we are still depleted. We are still exhausted and haven't recovered yet.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Us Filipinos, we're doing what we do best: endure. We are living up to one of our greatest qualities: resilience. We're at a point where devastation wasn't as tragic like acts of God, but the road to recovery is insanely difficult. Our favorite phrase: "Bahala na," and we'll just do things, hoping it will get better in the future. The only questions are how long will we be able to and is there any help that will come?<br /></p>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-69316418788943787512022-02-21T01:36:00.006+08:002022-02-21T04:42:10.258+08:00Herbal Insect Repellents of Aetas in the Philippines<div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-t06iVUBfOFSnrXKoO6RLROQYKUeRPloBpJzkcgVeP-LYR4ZNVNeF7Cxj63mwu-5n7shpupX8UuV0IxQQ8FMoTPrx4HypVCNnO6QH8D2NofW1xYRSD68UENr-hsO8_YsgGzszL__Y9Rp07egdXi2DlxAetWea5YY7VFBw0XWDnhYWC0eA4iy9Jg4K=s1500" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1500" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-t06iVUBfOFSnrXKoO6RLROQYKUeRPloBpJzkcgVeP-LYR4ZNVNeF7Cxj63mwu-5n7shpupX8UuV0IxQQ8FMoTPrx4HypVCNnO6QH8D2NofW1xYRSD68UENr-hsO8_YsgGzszL__Y9Rp07egdXi2DlxAetWea5YY7VFBw0XWDnhYWC0eA4iy9Jg4K=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Being a tropical country, mosquitoes are ever present in the Philippines. Its an unavoidable reality for the people hence the great interest in insecticides and repellents. One study was conducted in 2011 where they interviewed the native Aetas of Porac, Pampanga about their knowledge in repelling insects that bite human skin. This was an important study to gain insights about the ethnobotanical knowledge of indigenous people, as Aetas are known to have excellent familiarity and experience in the use of native plants as part of their lives and culture.</div><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><p style="text-align: justify;">54 plant species were identified and many are commonly known plants or trees. Here are a few of the list:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Acacia</li><li>Lemongrass</li><li>Neem</li><li>Gmelina</li><li>Sambong</li><li>Lagundi</li></ul><p style="text-align: justify;">While there's a general lack of local study to validate these herbs as insect repellants, indigenous use of these give us a starting point to consider seriously looking at their usefulness. Most likely, the repellent actions come from essential oils of these plants, but there are also other compounds that are released in the air when these plants are burned to create smoke, or when they're crushed as poultice and applied extracts to skin.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Inspired by the knowledge of the natives and their use of local plants in repelling insects, Burning Prism created <a href="https://www.burningprism.com/products/incense-sticks" target="_blank">Incense Sticks</a> that produces fragrant smoke meant to clear spaces of unwanted vibes and insects. Using a blend of plant-based ingredients like rosins from Elemi and Manila Copal (these rosins are what's left after distillation of tree resins to <a href="https://www.burningprism.com/collections/essential-oils">extract essential oils of the Philippines</a>), dried Neem leaves, dried Calamansi, dried Kakawate leaves, and some spices, the aromatic smoke it produces is easy on the nose. <br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.burningprism.com/products/incense-sticks" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Incense Sticks of the Philippines" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhO-Bm_zA3zSHhCW3j9jJzHFsjqrEt88OgmwdmSd1hc2LQXqYjo07_3MPZPXc8xhRPXmzg2uzn3KoziEK8PmnUrXM7CFoAWkLfnRoz6NG96MGsCyjPx_RkKYhjLJadysQHTHNeEWC-yDOkMjYU0CDL0QWqB1LVnxJOZMGfOjN2IGWCfWFb1v03ioLY6=w320-h320" title="Incense Sticks" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <br /><p></p>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-28546509045722271322022-01-14T02:53:00.008+08:002022-02-21T02:14:42.722+08:00Thoughts of Someone Unvaccinated Against Covid-19<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7rkeIIrS3A4vEnaR_NhxvNoXG2VJgco_8vhfEFB88_Kjjld-DG2rgX5pDmC8Xt2RsyHB4d1lYr3V4BxNeEGofA5YpdItmUdLCpnlTYRPbKK_V9q4s2uEFkEM-1eaXMbwj9be_pVaPvP6tmoTrpDEg_vOHtXjKBLId1u6ZI52iZgrg_mc-wgzXYzIK=s1080" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7rkeIIrS3A4vEnaR_NhxvNoXG2VJgco_8vhfEFB88_Kjjld-DG2rgX5pDmC8Xt2RsyHB4d1lYr3V4BxNeEGofA5YpdItmUdLCpnlTYRPbKK_V9q4s2uEFkEM-1eaXMbwj9be_pVaPvP6tmoTrpDEg_vOHtXjKBLId1u6ZI52iZgrg_mc-wgzXYzIK=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We are among the millions who voluntarily withheld getting a Covid-19 vaccine. We have made an informed choice based on the data presented to us, information we've personally gathered and strongly feel about, and continually stand by our choice. We do so because it is our right to exercise freedom over our bodies, our well-being and health, whether its physical, mental or emotional. You have no right to force us to make that choice by deprivation of liberties made exclusive to vaccinated individuals. You have no right to harass our right to existence as a free-thinking individual by limiting my movement, choices and beliefs. Vaccination is not the one and only path to health and wellness in this crisis, and forcing people to this direction by gross limitation due to our health choices is discriminatory, malicious, deceptive and intimidating. <br /></div><div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: justify;">While it is proven that vaccination is beneficial for many individuals, it had failed to protect you and your loved ones from the virus completely and gives a false sense of security or safety for everyone. You have spent millions or billions over a solution that is as temporary as the seasons of a year with very little to gain. While the vaccine has been claimed to have saved lives, it has failed to save the livelihood of millions and the well-being of even millions more. Your total reliance on a solution you can't claim to be very effective becomes even more absurd when you build upon it further and intensify efforts to its adoption. We understand that you have no other choice, but we the non-vaccinated do. It is the same as choosing whether to become vegetarian or continue eating the same way as everybody else does. Each has benefits but at this point, they do not have much of an edge against each other to coerce people to choose to be either one or another.<br /><br />To the governments, your preference to the vaccine and the vaccinated alienates a huge part of the people and their choices you've sworn to protect and nurture. Your well-intentioned and well-meaninged actions are terribly single-sided and without consideration to the fearful and terrified population who are now even more oppressed with deprivation to living necessities. For almost past 2 years, we continually live in fear and anxiety for ourselves, our families, our livelihood and our rights. It is a fear that cannot be erased by vaccination because even the vaccinated right now have reacquainted with this fear. Truth be told, you have given the vaccinated hope and security, but as medical science openly admits, it is something very temporary. You can keep selling the world the idea it is a solution, but in reality, we've never made huge progress since day one of the pandemic and it looks like we're back to square one. While your constituents have rarely given credit to where it is due, its an occupational hazard you've willingly accepted as leaders. There are always other options to take, but definitely the most convenient ones always gets priority.<br /><br />To the corporations making the vaccines, thank you. We applaud your work and ability to create a vaccine in record time with the hopes of having the ability to protect the people of the world. Many of humanity is still alive because of this, as claimed by the experts, but your gifts to the world are being misused as a tool for control and cover-up for their shortcomings in governance. We are happy for all the benefits going your way during these times, it is the result of the invaluable service to mankind's medically recommended option out of this pandemic. We are sincerely confident that you have made everyone fully aware of the risks in vaccinating people inadequately tested vaccines that require at least 5 years of research and testing to be considered safe and effective. Hopefully you and your organized systems can continue convincing everyone using the vaccine in the succeeding years to come inspite of its limitations.<br /><br />To all the practitioners of the medical field, we thank you for your endless dedication to fulfill your duty, inspite of the risks involved. We laud your firm adherence to your principles and training, your service and passion. We hope not to see you because we've chosen to go against your recommendation, but accept our gratitude in the event that happens, your kind will still be of service to us and everyone.<br /><br />To our fellow unvaccinated, we hope your choice is a well-informed one. We hope that you are aware of the risks and the benefits of abstaining from vaccination. If you are relying on a friend or relative's recommendation alone, or because of stories you've heard, do more research just to make sure you've made the right choice. You are entitled to this, and no one should make you do what you're unwilling to. No person or organization should impose or limit you unless you allow them to do so. The only one you are putting at risk for non-vaccination is yourself, because the vaccine does not completely prevent a Covid-19 infection. So whether one is vaccinated or not, infection is always a probability. We hope you share my sentiment that vaccination status should not be a basis or consideration of any implementation or restriction because it is not an advantageous or a disadvantageous distinction. <br /></p>
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</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-73740862296164292532022-01-12T00:15:00.001+08:002022-01-12T00:16:04.259+08:00Covid-19 and How Poorly the World is Handling the Pandemic<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBSl5lwB-y_SRwiQ4wCf4Pnempb7UPF59cCExWYrRhRT_sLUzJzlFhp7a12ZNBRhh3geK7Sl2JlQgbS5OetGOOaO0vCKmueSV8BfLwe2vqYaigqstqrqKREJt3rNQvmhZgeTd-_dingWtGD5uZioS4AqOiRQ46q19pG3ttCCeAd3hM7DMIPnrkIzml=s1200" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBSl5lwB-y_SRwiQ4wCf4Pnempb7UPF59cCExWYrRhRT_sLUzJzlFhp7a12ZNBRhh3geK7Sl2JlQgbS5OetGOOaO0vCKmueSV8BfLwe2vqYaigqstqrqKREJt3rNQvmhZgeTd-_dingWtGD5uZioS4AqOiRQ46q19pG3ttCCeAd3hM7DMIPnrkIzml=s320" width="320" /></a></div>Its been almost 2 years. It is not the virus that brought the world down to its knees, but how we responded to it. And the fear-mongering continues.<p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Lockdowns, testings, quarantines, suppression of movement. We have wasted humanity's 2 years unproductively to "protect" lives. For the past many months we've all experienced the radical shift in almost everything in the world, all guided by the leaders of health and medicine under the theme of saving lives. In spite of this, no one felt safe or secure at all. Why? Because our poor response to a pandemic has halted civilization's progress and put everything even our lives and livelihood at a very huge risk.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">What are we missing? There's a lot that we are missing out or people making decisions for millions are ignoring.</p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><u><b>Too much reliance on vaccines</b></u> - this is not an anti-vaccine statement. It is a modern wonder, and more so the record time it was created is just amazing. It is irrefutable that it works, it has been proven all along. But too many have just put focus on vaccines and ignore everything else. For a moving target, one that quickly evolves blazingly fast, vaccines are a temporary solution. <br /></li><li><u><b>Bad statistics</b></u> - even at the onset, data isn't accurate. Just take for example the number of infected individuals. It does not factor in the untested people who didn't report probable infections, which puts existing data severely unreliable if its the focal point of a good approach. One thing is sure though, while Covid-19 is fatal, it is highly survivable. By medical standards, it is still dangerous, but not everything should fall under the medical standards in the real world setting.<br /></li><li><u><b>Ignoring Natural Immunity</b></u> - we rarely hear experts talk about natural immunity. For some reason they keep a downplay on this, where in fact, it is something pivotal. Why is it not being tackled and factored in too much? Perhaps because it is something that cannot be controlled, measured, predicted or something that no one can profit from.</li><li><u><b>Alternative or Traditional Medications</b></u> - because of the world's total reliance on medicine as the treatment of choice to diseases, we have been ignoring the practical and probably the most widely available source of cure to this mess. Folk medication has helped countless people tremendously in this pandemic, and no one really cared to measure its impact. Here in the Philippines, people have resorted to using Lagundi, Salabat, Suob and many other herbals or techniques which have helped our ancestors deal with respiratory diseases since hundreds of years ago. It is sad and depressing to see that we are bonded by the shackles of ignorance in using traditional medications which is cheap and widely available. And if one is promoting these types of treatments, they get attacked.</li><li><u><b>Economic Drain Due to Fall of Micro Enterprises</b></u> - globally, the backbone of every economy are micro enterprises. And yet, they are the hardest hit in all the lockdowns and restrictions. True, many businesses are not practical in a pandemic, but the lack of comprehensive support or strategies to help them survive isn't helping either. Its like they're left to die and rot.</li><li><u><b>Lockdowns and Restrictions </b></u>- for God's sake, its been proven that Covid-19 will reinfect again and again individuals. But with vaccination and natural immunity already in place (of course, no one is certain because of bad data gathering and handling), it should be all barriers lifted and let nature take its course. Our medical and health experts of the world have been too ambitious to put in their accomplishments: "I stopped Covid-19." And the tune is still the same. Enough of it! No one can stop it, we are not capable and we are not supposed to stop nature from letting its processes happen. No one has the resources to completely make the virus halt and even a global coordinated effort will always have fissures that will be exploited by the diseases.</li></ol><p style="text-align: justify;">We've wasted too much time, resources and energy stopping the virus. It has been proven it is not as fatal. It would be less fatal if medicine has been open to working with complimentary treatments and alternative medications. <br /></p><p> </p>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-80034506648891905672018-10-24T13:17:00.001+08:002022-01-11T22:49:36.319+08:00Elemi: Essential Oil of the Philippines<div style="text-align: justify;">
Majority of the world's Elemi comes from the Philippines. Our country is the world's source of this exudate coming from the trunks of Canarium trees since the late 1800s. The reason is because only here can commercial quantities be found.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-TjRQD3-QE/W8__CbpnZfI/AAAAAAAAESU/i-SuMca_vTcAGjH3eEJrhBDYHVnSxk5GgCLcBGAs/s1600/Canarium-luzonicum-tree-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Manila Elemi tree with resin harvesting" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="503" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-TjRQD3-QE/W8__CbpnZfI/AAAAAAAAESU/i-SuMca_vTcAGjH3eEJrhBDYHVnSxk5GgCLcBGAs/s400/Canarium-luzonicum-tree-2.png" title="Canarium luzonicum tree full view with Elemi resin" width="196" /></a></div>
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What's known globally as the Manila Elemi comes from the species <i>Canarium luzonicum</i>, known locally as "piling liitan," "sahing," "malapili" and "pagsahingin." Its called as such because of its close resemblance to its cousin, the Pili tree which bears fruits with huge nuts. These tall <i>Canarium luzonicum</i> trees are mostly found in the wild, rarely cultivated. Naturally, the tree secretes an aromatic, resinous substance. With the aid of some cutting tools, the secretion of resin can be induced by chipping off parts of the bark. In the past, farmers believed that harvesting resin will eventually kill the tree, which is possible if they cut too deep and too many. </div>
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Every week, an elemi farmer will make an incision and wait for a few days to a week and harvest the semi-solid resin. These are collected and sent to middlemen or directly to companies for either exportation or processing. Almost the whole year round the trees produces resin but are low in some months.</div>
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Extracting the essential oil from Elemi, one needs to distill the resin. Casa de Lorenzo Organic Products distill <a href="http://www.thecasadelorenzo.com/2012/04/elemi-essential-oil.html" target="_blank">Elemi Essential Oil</a> from <a href="https://www.cdlnaturals.com/Elemi-Essential-Oil-Canarium-luzonicum-p89744786" target="_blank"><i>Canarium luzonicum</i></a> and <a href="https://www.cdlnaturals.com/Elemi-Essential-Oil-Canarium-ovatum-p110747268" target="_blank"><i>Canarium ovatum</i></a>. The distillation can take anywhere from 8 hours to a full 24 hours depending on the efficiency of the distillation equipment and the resin. The resulting condensate is essential oil and hydrosol which naturally separates and are stored in different containers respectively.</div>
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The two different Elemi Essential Oils vary as well in their character and chemical composition. The essential oil from Canarium ovatum is sharper and more spicier while the Canarium luzonicum is much more sweeter, mellow and balanced. Both are great alternatives to Frankincense in terms of fragrance. Benefits of Elemi Essential Oil<em></em> include anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, analgesic, soothes muscles, reduces wrinkles and aides in minor respiratory problems. It has also found increasing usage as an aid in meditation and higher spiritual awareness because of Elemi's affinity with magical and religious consciousness.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-38807148896604693012017-08-15T12:18:00.000+08:002017-08-15T15:45:59.674+08:00UBER you're suspended!<div style="text-align: justify;">
This will not be a discourse whether UBER or LTFRB is right. Apparently its not only in the Philippines that UBER is showing resistance to conformity to authority and regulations. Read here: <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/03/technology/uber-greyball-program-evade-authorities.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/03/technology/uber-greyball-program-evade-authorities.html</a></div>
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To a certain extent, LTFRB needs to be lauded on their openness to talk and work things out with UBER and GRAB. The guys in the government organization are not totally idiots, though they are struggling to keep up with technology, outdated policies and the vicious social media. It is not clear what their strategy here is, or why UBER and GRAB is having a hard time complying. Maybe regulate competition or limit the volume of for hire vehicles on the road, but something has to be done since the apps really help moving Filipinos from one place to another. Beats me how the whole circus works, but here's to hoping these guys at LTFRB become the movers and shakers that will redefine the landscape of commuting.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UlhKDId5ED4/WZJ12mdcRiI/AAAAAAAAD_I/1nTfd6Yrz4ctoxpSCuwDrft9KDKujTJCwCLcBGAs/s1600/taxi-sign-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="600" height="218" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UlhKDId5ED4/WZJ12mdcRiI/AAAAAAAAD_I/1nTfd6Yrz4ctoxpSCuwDrft9KDKujTJCwCLcBGAs/s320/taxi-sign-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from Philstar.com</td></tr>
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Anyway, even if these things don't get fixed immediately, we just have to give up convenience and deal with dishonest taxi drivers, long lines at taxi lanes, and some safety issues riding a cab. Actually majority has still been riding the taxis, <u>its just that the noisiest and the people who complain the most are in social media.</u> Majority as well have been riding the jeep, trains and buses. They don't complain much, they just go with the flow. They know they'll get to their destination eventually, with or without convenience.</div>
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The worst thing happening is too many people are noisy, angry and hateful on social media. But are they doing anything about it? No, they just make noise, express sentiments, sign useless petitions, talk to other haters then hating them as well later on. These things don't make your problems disappear. Try doing something substantial and different. Try doing something else that will probably work for you. Stop the negativity and start doing something.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-61963121333305045492017-08-13T23:24:00.001+08:002017-08-13T23:24:35.530+08:00The Culture of Corruption<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dictionaries define <i>corruption</i> in many levels. There's <i>decay and decomposition</i>, <i>inducement to wrong doings</i>, and the most relevant: <span><i>dishonest or illegal behavior especially by powerful people</i> (Merriam-Webster). But I like the last definition of corruption: <i>a departure from the original or from what is pure or correct</i>. Maybe we do have an idea how it is to be a "pure" and "correct" human being for us to better define corruption.</span></div>
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The men and women in the Philippine streets know corruption is happening. I do not recall having met anyone who can say we have a clean government. In <i>inuman</i> sessions, in <i>chismisan</i> and even in social gatherings, we Filipinos love to talk about mayor and their alleged loot, congressman and their team's dirty works, or even the "insider info" of how a certain government official manipulated supplies bidding for lucrative rewards at the end. As the famous saying goes, if there's smoke, there's a fire. They all come from somewhere, and chances are they are true.</div>
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Corruption in its most relevant definition is improper use of resources, power or influence to achieve personal gain. It means resources, power or influence are not theirs to begin with, and it should be used for the good of the many. And yet, corruption happens. From the lowliest person to way up high, corruption happens, and we can say it is part of the system. And surprisingly though, it seems deeply ingrained in our everyday life. It can even be claimed up to the very depths of our humanity. We the corrupt people of the Philippines and the world.</div>
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Yes we are all corrupt. We are all corruptible. Unless we all become robots or machines and do not have friends, loved ones, feelings or emotions, we are all subject to mistakes and corruption. We are known to make resolutions but abandon them when the going gets tough (corruption of convenience). We are capable of going with the <i>barkada</i> inspite of your spouse or parents telling you no (corruption of friends). We spoil our children with <i>pasalubong</i> or things they want to make up for lost time and parenting responsibilities with them (bribery). The list can actually go on, but it only proves one thing: we are living in a corrupt culture. We cheat, we lie, we make unfulfilled promises, we take responsibilities but fail to deliver, we hate and get angry, we take shortcuts, we try to make our lives easier; these little things from everyday life give rise to higher probability to bigger corruptions on bigger stages.</div>
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We all have to accept the fact that corruption will always be around. It goes hand in hand with humanity's capability to love, to connect and work with each other. These are the drawbacks of being an independent and self-existing entity who is responsible for making its own decisions. We cannot expect the people of power to be any different from us. They have their own pursuits, concepts that are of value to them, and of course politics, which makes them very susceptible.</div>
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If you're expecting a solution while reading this, sorry, there seems to be none. We just have to keep our hopes up that eventually, the incorruptibles will take the stage. For now, everyone is on his or her own. Being incorruptible is a choice along all other choices in the future. But becoming one will always be a struggle. There will always be a perfect rationale for being corrupt. There will always be a great alibi for any wrong doing because of our advanced intellect and loopholes everywhere. There will always be people and events presenting lots and lots of opportunity to be corrupt. No one is perfectly safe. Hence there's that high probability that every person who takes the seats up high can be corrupted.</div>
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So why worry about them and what they do? Let's just do what we can, be glad of any help we can get from the government and move forward. Let's stop complaining and whining it is unfair. The world is an unfair place. We just have to stop becoming victimized by it.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-70819577426091935472016-12-30T03:12:00.000+08:002016-12-30T03:12:23.551+08:00Jose Rizal: National Hero Not<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_fglzScqE1s/WGVfTW8LIxI/AAAAAAAAD0I/EemnYXHB2sMI31wv58InJTJicQwtUJvXQCLcB/s1600/Jose_rizal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_fglzScqE1s/WGVfTW8LIxI/AAAAAAAAD0I/EemnYXHB2sMI31wv58InJTJicQwtUJvXQCLcB/s320/Jose_rizal.jpg" width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From commons.wikimedia.org</td></tr>
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So there must be around a hundred roads named after Rizal throughout the Philippines. There is a province named after him. His statue is a centerpiece of a park named after him in Manila. He has a holiday in his honor. His works are in the school's curriculum, and there is a "religious" following dedicated to seeing him as a god! Surely this man is something. <b>But why isn't he the Philippines National Hero?</b></div>
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That's right. Jose Rizal isn't our national hero.</div>
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To be a national symbol of the country, it needs legislation or a presidential proclamation. Only 5 things made it there: our national flower (Sampaguita), our national tree (Narra), our national animal (Philippine Eagle), our national gem (South Sea Pearl) and our national sport (Arnis). In short, all the other "commonly believed to be national symbols" aren't official.</div>
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The truth is, the historians and the leaders of the country in the past 'lacked the alignment of the stars' to label someone as a national hero. Former President Ramos formed a National Heroes Committee who recommended candidates to be national heroes (Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Aguinaldo, Apolinario Mabini, Marcelo H. Del Pilar, Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat, Juan Luna, Melchora Aquino and Gabriela Silang), but so far, no law or proclamation came out of it.</div>
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Why are we having second thoughts of making it official? It could be politics, or history, or something else. While Jose Rizal was an extremely talented overachiever and a patriot, he was just a victim of circumstances during his martyrdom. He was misunderstood both by Filipinos and Spaniards alike. To us Filipinos, he was a symbol of freedom from tyranny. To Spain (circa 1896), he was the heart and soul of the revolution. In reality, he never pushed for separation from Spain. He sought that learned Filipinos be given equal capacity before the law and make the Philippines a regular province of Spain. In fact, he offered to be "utilized" by the Spanish authorities to have the Philippine Revolution suppressed, which was not given much attention during his trials prior to execution. His position was that the revolution is an unnecessary bloodshed and we may not be ready yet for self-governance. Nevertheless, he still got executed for crimes he didn't do.</div>
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Did he die for our country? He was made to. Did he love the Philippines and its people? No doubt about it. Is he the person that should symbolize heroism for Filipinos? Maybe. Because we are all victims of circumstances. </div>
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We all fight for our ideals and passions, and no matter how hard we try, things don't always end up the way we wanted it to. This is at the very core of Filipino Resilience resonating in every Filipino then and today. We accept the outcome, and perhaps get up to fight another day. <i>Bahala na</i>. We'll just leave it there and see what happens next because we did what we can. Viewing it this way, making Jose Rizal as the official national hero has never been so relevant in these modern times.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-72162174331934345272016-06-15T03:04:00.001+08:002018-03-17T23:46:50.197+08:00Essential Oils in the Philippines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jr1aXwcT_h4/V2BU8m_kTuI/AAAAAAAADmw/BsaO775T3fchC0S3k-itdx8mI3kkZvW1QCLcB/s1600/Essential_Oils_Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jr1aXwcT_h4/V2BU8m_kTuI/AAAAAAAADmw/BsaO775T3fchC0S3k-itdx8mI3kkZvW1QCLcB/s320/Essential_Oils_Image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Are there <a href="http://www.thecasadelorenzo.com/p/aromatics.html">essential oils in the Philippines</a>? Yes, there are, mostly imported ones. But here, we'd be talking about the ones produced here. </div>
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The Philippines is a great country with a lot of natural resources and a huge diversity of plants and trees. Once upon a time, our country leads the world in rice research and production. There was also a time when we led the world in coffee production. Right now, we lead the world in coconuts and in calamansi. We have the potential to develop our agricultural capacity in producing crops that possesses lots of essential oils.</div>
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Essential oils are basically aromatic compounds found in plants or trees. These are used in perfumery, cosmetics, food and aromatherapy. There are also a few more uses being studied and it is being looked upon as the next frontier since the age of antibiotics is already towards its end. Reason is, most essential oils are antibacterial, antiseptic and antiviral, without the side effects of bacterial resistance developing.</div>
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Not all plants that produce essential oils can grow in the Philippines, but we do have a lot that are easy to cultivate. Since we lack the attention and interest, other countries have more experience and developed better science and technology in extracting essential oils. I'm pretty sure we can catch up, but the investment needed is huge and the market is not a very solid one, especially for unknown essential oils. It is for that reason why not a lot of people venture towards this direction.</div>
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So here's a list of essential oils in the Philippines that are produced locally. Its not a very long one, but hopefully, it will be in the next few years.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AFu9ajGNzkk/T8j8oywuO0I/AAAAAAAABUw/LTsPKpRM6wc/s1600/lemongrass+-+Casa+de+Lorenzo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AFu9ajGNzkk/T8j8oywuO0I/AAAAAAAABUw/LTsPKpRM6wc/s320/lemongrass+-+Casa+de+Lorenzo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thecasadelorenzo.com/2012/04/lemongrass-essential-oil.html">Lemongrass essential oil</a></span>. Locally known as tanglad, Lemongrass leaves are a popular ingredient for cooking because of the distinct flavor it imparts on stews and roasted dishes. It is a tough plant and can withstand the harsh tropical climate, thriving on limited water and full sun during summer, while adjusting really well during the rainy season. The essential oil, like the plant itself, is known to help the body's digestive function. It is also antibacterial, antiviral, and wards off a lot of insects. The sweet, lemony scent of lemongrass is great for neutralizing unwanted odors. <a href="https://www.cdlnaturals.com/Lemongrass-Essential-Oil-c24489097" target="_blank">Lemongrass essential oil</a> is usually produced by distillation.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DIBwqrRUOc/T8j8mIcIVXI/AAAAAAAABUc/ZtQWtA8kVpw/s1600/citronella+-+Casa+de+Lorenzo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DIBwqrRUOc/T8j8mIcIVXI/AAAAAAAABUc/ZtQWtA8kVpw/s320/citronella+-+Casa+de+Lorenzo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thecasadelorenzo.com/2012/04/citronella-essential-oil.html">Citronella essential oil</a></span>. The cousin of Lemongrass is also a hardy plant endemic to the Philippines. Basically, there's not much use of citronella outside of being an essential oil. It is a popular part of any nature lover's anti-mosquito arsenal. In many parts of the Philippines, citronella is being grown and harvested for the purpose of essential oil extraction. There's a huge supply of this essential oil and its basically one of the cheapest around since its usage is very limited. However, more recent studies suggest that citronella possesses excellent antibacterial and mood-enhancing qualities. Aromatherapists recommend mixing <a href="https://www.cdlnaturals.com/Citronella-Essential-Oil-c24489098" target="_blank">citronella essential oil</a> with other matching essential oils to synergize effects and multiply the benefits of the essential oils, as well as making it smell more pleasant.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qOBg1yK_UYI/UbWXmoU9efI/AAAAAAAACkg/tda38aU8cCA/s1600/casadelorenzo+calamansi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qOBg1yK_UYI/UbWXmoU9efI/AAAAAAAACkg/tda38aU8cCA/s320/casadelorenzo+calamansi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thecasadelorenzo.com/2012/04/calamansi-essential-oil.html">Calamansi essential oil</a></span>. We are all familiar with calamansi. We drink its juice, we cook with it, we use it to flavor our sauces and a whole lot more. The challenge with calamansi is it's essential oil is not that plenty, although the Philippines is the world's top source of calamansi and its essential oil. Owing to its naturally thin skin where the essential oils are stored, the yield is very low. Nevertheless, it is a very pleasant product, perfect for neutralizing odors and when used in very small amounts, help lighten the skin. The <a href="https://www.cdlnaturals.com/Calamansi-Essential-Oil-c24489092" target="_blank">calamansi essential oil</a> has high limonene content (about 77%) which makes it an ideal deodorizer that neutralizes unwanted smell.</div>
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<a href="http://www.thecasadelorenzo.com/2012/04/ylang-ylang-essential-oil.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Ylang-ylang essential oil</span></a>. This flower is usually being sold strung along with the sampaguita, our national flower in the churches, on the road and on the streets. Historically, it is believed to be a mood enhancer and aphrodisiac, traditionally placed on a couple's bed at the night of their wedding. The sweet, pleasing floral aroma of Ylang-ylang is inherited by its essential oil. It is expensive, due to the difficulty in harvesting and extracting process. Only during mornings and late afternoons can the flowers be harvested for optimum yield, and it has to be processed immediately. Distillation needs to be done for a very long time, mostly beyond 20 hours so all extracts can be harvested. In the past, our country has good supplies. However, recently, there's been a shortage of the <a href="https://www.cdlnaturals.com/Ylang-ylang-Essential-Oil-c24489100" target="_blank">Ylang-ylang essential oil</a> and the producers or retailers of locally extracted ones aren't visible.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7jJgoV7cGdM/VyI8Bvrj6xI/AAAAAAAADlc/Vf95thb0UXUDnJaTcW2dsFinAyYcpbHqACLcB/s1600/Elemi-Essential-Oil.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7jJgoV7cGdM/VyI8Bvrj6xI/AAAAAAAADlc/Vf95thb0UXUDnJaTcW2dsFinAyYcpbHqACLcB/s320/Elemi-Essential-Oil.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thecasadelorenzo.com/2012/04/elemi-essential-oil.html">Elemi essential oil</a></span>. The big perfume brands has been using elemi essential oil for decades now as part of their products. Its regal, spicy-lemony scent is an exciting one that can uplift the mood and reduce anxiety. Extracted from the gum of <i>canarium</i> trees (Pili tree's cousin) largely found in the Philippines, our country is the leading source of its raw materials. In the past, the gums are harvested and sent to Europe for proper extraction. Today, entrepreneurs have mastered the skills and began harvesting elemi gum from Pili trees and extracting <a href="https://www.cdlnaturals.com/Elemi-Essential-Oil-c24489096" target="_blank">elemi essential oil</a> making it available locally at a more affordable price. Filipinos can now enjoy elemi essential oil's benefits as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, reduces wrinkles and aids minor respiratory ailments.</div>
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Because of the complex processes involved in extracting essential oils, they don't come cheap. Plants don't just pop out of the ground instantly, ready to be used. A farmer counts months or years before harvesting these. Imagine the time, effort and patience to let mother nature do things her way. Also, it takes a ton of plant material to produce a few liters of essential oils literally. But you know what, its worth the wait and the costs, because the benefits of essential oils are just worth it.<br />
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With the rise of modernization, we may be forgetting our roots to the environment. Essential oils are one of the things that bring us back closer to nature.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-64625043442482309752015-06-01T00:32:00.001+08:002015-06-01T00:32:19.914+08:00Repost: Ronghiya and the port of last resort<div style="text-align: justify;">
I never do reposts. Never ever done. But this is one of the very rare times I'm gonna make an exception. For some reason, the magic is there, in the author's verses. I fought hard to hold back my tears as I read through the article while waiting for our car to be fixed in a "talyer" filled with other customers and the mechanics.</div>
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Inspite of the distracting environment, the article did make an impact. Here I am sharing it to everyone visiting my site. This article is from Rappler, no plagiarizing intended, just real admiration for the author. Here's the link of the original:</div>
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<a href="http://www.rappler.com/thought-leaders/94664-rohingya-boat-people-philippines" rel="nofollow">http://www.rappler.com/thought-leaders/94664-rohingya-boat-people-philippines</a><br />
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The Rohingya and the port of last resort</h1>
Patricia Evangelista<br />
2:22 PM, May 29, 2015<br />
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We know our place in the world. We are the port of last resort, and have little to offer the Rohingya beyond a separate peace. Yet I write this with pride, in the hope that there will always be a cluster of islands southwest of the Pacific, where no ship in need is called unwanted</div>
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They said there were knives and ropes. They said there were riots over scraps. They said they were stabbed and beaten, and that there were days when their throats were so parched they drank their own urine. Some of them were hanged, others thrown overboard.</div>
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There was a risk of mass casualties, said aid groups. Drifting boats were turning into floating coffins. Ship decks were little more than a confusion of shoulders, ribs, and bony elbows. Rohingya refugees waved signs as navies towed rickety boats out to sea. The crisis had become a game of human Ping-Pong, with lives in play as countries took turns slamming the paddle.</div>
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There was a standoff, until early last week, when news broke that the Philippines had offered shelter to 3,000 boat people.</div>
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“The Philippines,” wrote The Telegraph, “has offered refuge to the thousands of migrants who have been stranded for months on boats after being repeatedly rejected and towed back to sea by Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.”</div>
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Justice Secretary Leila de Lima announced that refugees “cannot always be expected to obtain travel documents particularly where the agent of persecution is the state.” The United Nations High Commission on Refugees saluted the country’s "strong humanitarian tradition.” Post after repost streamed down timelines, prefaced with messages shared by aid workers and international protection officers and the occasional old friend from Australia.</div>
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This is how it’s done, they said. Look at the Philippines. Look at what they’ve done.</div>
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I suspect I am one of many who were initially confused, not so much by the reports, but by the general air of surprise and congratulatory glee that greeted the government announcement. An earlier report that the country would push back the boat people – a misinterpretation later corrected by the government – was received with doubt by news editors and roundly protested on social media. Many of us assumed we would welcome the Rohingya. It was just a question of when.</div>
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There are some truths I know. The drowning season will begin in June. The bribes will appear before the campaigns roll. The malls will fill in the sweaty noon, the clowns will dance with the corrupt, and the ports will open for refugees, wherever they are from.</div>
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The people nobody wanted</div>
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They are the Muslims of Northern Rakhine state, more than a million strong, born in Myanmar with family going back generations. They call themselves the Rohingya.</div>
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Myanmar denies them even their name. They have, instead, been called Bengalis, identified by Myanmar as natives of a Bangladesh that disclaims them, marked as foreigners and illegal immigrants, subject to abuse and deportation.</div>
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The Rohingya have been called the most persecuted in the world, a Muslim minority whose mosques were burned by nationalists seeking "to protect Buddhism.” Most have been denied citizenship and evicted from their homes. Although they have been discriminated for decades, ethnic violence came to a head in 2012 when thousands of Arakan men, “armed with machetes, swords, homemade guns, Molotov cocktails, and other weapons descended upon and attacked Muslim villages,” torching homes and killing residents.</div>
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It was, as Human Rights Watch called it, “a coordinated campaign to forcibly relocate or remove the state’s Muslims.”</div>
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An estimated 140,000 fled into refugee camps, where conditions are difficult and food is scarce. Although they have not been permitted to leave, The Economist reported that in the first three months of 2015, 25,000 Rohingya, including those living on the borders of Bangladesh, bought their way into boats in an attempt to reach friendlier shores. At least 300 have died. Some of those boats drifted into the waters of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand – and forced the crisis that is now testing the convictions of the international community.</div>
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One boat in particular, abandoned by captain and crew, packed with swollen-eyed passengers, drifted into Thailand waters after an interception off Langkawi and Penang islands by Malaysian authorities. Passengers said they had been at sea for over three months. The ship, said The New York Times, “flew a tattered black flag on a bamboo mast,” with the words, “We are Myanmar Rohingya.”</div>
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The Thai navy repaired their engine, gave them provisions, and pronounced them ready to travel.</div>
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Thailand's Lt. Cmdr. Veerapong Nakprasit said the navy had trained the passengers “to navigate on their own,” adding that it was “so they can reach their dream destination.”</div>
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For the Rohingya, the dream has become anywhere but home.</div>
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In pursuit of the dream</div>
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In 2014, according to the UNHCR, 9 Rohingya migrants were allowed into the Philippines "to be free from fear that they're going to be sold again."</div>
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"They were allowed to come into the Philippines while their processing took place, and regained a few kilos, regained their health, regained some dignity, and proceeded onwards to reach their resettlement countries," said Bernard Kerblat, country representative of the UNHCR.</div>
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The Philippines was a temporary home, where the Rohingya stayed 5 months “to recover.”</div>
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"What was needed at that time,” said Kerblat, “is to find a sovereign state ready to accept them even for a short time."</div>
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This is the Republic of the Philippines, pearl of the orient, cradle of the brave, ringed by fire and drowned by storm, where the disaster season begins in July, lasts until Christmas, then staggers into a rehabilitation period that ends when the next typhoon decimates another province.</div>
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Welcome to the last country outside the Vatican without divorce, the third most dangerous country for journalists, whose airport was celebrated for rising to fourth worst instead of first, whose road traffic maintains its place as the ninth worst in the world. This is where a doctor can be jailed for removing a fetus to save a mother's life, where most live under the poverty line, and where it is possible, if you know where to go, to buy unmarked abortifacients in the back alleys leading to the Church of the Black Nazarene.</div>
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And yet, according to the UN, it is also the country that in 2012 became “the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to establish a procedure to protect both refugees and stateless people." Of the many and varied ways we define ourselves, we are also a people who will open our ports to the very desperate.</div>
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It is not the first time. On September 8, 1937, a steamship named Gneisenau carrying German Jews escaping the Holocaust arrived in Manila, and was given official welcome by the Quezon government. World War II did not just bring in more Jews, but also Chinese refugees and residents of the British colony of Hong Kong. The Philippines remained open to refugees until December 8, 1941 – the day the Japanese arrived with their bayonets and burned cities to the ground.</div>
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"We would not be alive today if not for the Philippines,” said 84-year-old Lotte Hershfield. “We would've been destroyed in the crematorium."</div>
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In 1949, the International Refugee Organization made an appeal to the international community for safe refuge on behalf of thousands of White Russians whose lives were endangered by civil war after the Bolshevik Revolution. Only one country offered protection – the Philippines, whose government granted temporary shelter to an estimated 6,000 Russians in the former naval base of Tubabao Island in Guiuan, Eastern Samar.</div>
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In 1975, the mounting massacres by the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia as well as threats from Vietnam’s new communist government sent thousands of refugees into exile. Many were provided with food, shelter and education by the Philippine Refugee Processing Center.</div>
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In the 20 years the center was in service, over 400,000 Indochina refugees passed through its doors.</div>
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'We will take him home'</div>
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I write this in an attempt to understand, if only for myself, what seems to be a national impulse in a country that can barely support its own. It is a compulsion we have rarely questioned, but is now thrown into sharp relief by the crisis in the Andaman Sea.</div>
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There is no easy explanation. It may be little more than the practicality of living in an archipelago with porous borders. Or it could be another inheritance from the American occupation, much the same as free speech, secular governance and a great and abiding love for imported spam.</div>
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And yet it’s difficult to believe all this is nothing more than a result of habit and circumstance. It is the same impulse that has a barber who lost his shop in a typhoon offering jobs to the two barbers who lost their homes. It is an impulse that lives in the aftermath of disaster – the widow and her children surviving on looted goods dropped off by tattooed men, the father wrapping the corpse of his neighbor’s daughter just after he lost his wife, the displaced mother insisting on feeding journalists out of her meager store.</div>
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In 2012, after Typhoon Pablo ripped through Compostela Valley, I was sent to New Bataan to cover the survivors. It was 5 days after the storm, and the evacuation center smelled of sweat and corpses. I remember a woman in her late fifties, a grandmother who had travelled 8 hours by jeep with her miner husband. They had come for their daughter, and were told she was dead. Their two grandchildren had survived.</div>
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They were all going home, she said, to the house near the mines where the children would be raised as their own.</div>
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Her husband walked in, trailing a 9-year-old boy. The boy was an orphan, said the miner, and had been snatched by a neighbor from the flashfloods in time to see his parents and older brother drown.</div>
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If no one claimed the boy, said the old man, they would bring him home.</div>
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The port of last resort</div>
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Today, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand have committed to the rescue of what may be thousands of refugees still at sea. Indonesia and Malaysia have already offered temporary refuge. A number of countries, including the United States, have promised resettlement assistance.</div>
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“It may be conceivable,” said the UNHCR’s Kerblat, “that the reiteration of the government of the Philippines to uphold their commitment to asylum may have contributed to encourage other member states to positively reconsider their position.” HRW Deputy Director for Asia Phelim Kine offered the same thought, calling the Philippines’ initial offer of asylum “leadership by example.”</div>
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I’d like to believe the Philippines had some influence in the sudden reversal of positions, but I'm also well aware it could have just as well been a function of timing and circumstance. Aceh’s fishermen were rescuing boat people even before Indonesia officially allowed the Rohingya to disembark. Thailand and Malaysia, before their crackdown on refugees, have themselves given shelter to tens of thousands of Rohingya refugees.</div>
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The truth is that we’re not all that different. It is only that we took a stand, at a time when everyone else had decided they had done enough.</div>
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I suspect it is at these moments when we are at our best, when we realize there is no one left to stand but us. I don’t believe there's any irony in a Catholic country welcoming Rohingya migrants, in much the same way as there was no surprise when Jews and Protestants sailed into our ports. Our Muslim south is just as vehement in their demand we offer aid, promising land and protection to the Rohingya.</div>
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This is not about religion, as much as it is about memory and necessity and pride. We know what it is to live as underdogs. We have fought losing wars, have marched unarmed and singing towards a tyrant’s loaded cannons, and still stood cheering as our pound-for-pound national hero lost what may be recorded as the most monotonous boxing match in sports history.</div>
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Many of us recognize the reckless courage it took for the Rohingya to smuggle their children into tilting boats. It is the same sacrifice we’ve seen in millions of our own, who have risked abuse overseas for the sake of future and family. We know what it is to beg. We've stood at the receiving end of charity and contempt. Maybe this is why so many of us will look past political cost and practical consideration to the reality of bone and muscle and beating heart.</div>
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I don't have the answers. All I know is that if the cost of generosity is high, the price of our refusal will be much higher still.</div>
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The crisis is not over, but the Rohingya are now welcome in the countries they sought. Thousands have been rescued and are now under the care of Malaysia and Indonesia. The Philippines, many miles distant, will have little need to prepare its coasts. The Rohingya's imagined future has never been this country – a nation big on dreams and short on reality, torn by conflict, wracked by disaster, whose own people look to the distance for greener pastures.</div>
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We know what we are. We are the port of last resort, and have little to offer beyond a separate peace. Yet I write this with pride, in the hope that there will always be a cluster of islands southwest of the Pacific, where no ship in need is called unwanted.</div>
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There are many days – when the thousands stand sweating at midmorning waiting for trains that do not come, when another toddler dies of piss-poor conditions in Zamboanga, when a chinless senator howls about the Muslim scourge, when another scandal and another charge and another whistle-blower takes over the headlines – when there is cause to be ashamed of who we are.</div>
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It is not today. Today, it is a grand and marvelous thing to be born a Filipino. – Rappler.com</div>
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Patricia Evangelista is a field reporter and the multimedia manager of Rappler.com. She covers disaster, conflict, human rights and development issues. Follow her at @patevangelista.</div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-67518153370266804672014-09-23T00:07:00.000+08:002014-10-08T13:30:14.811+08:00A Take on Filipino Identity<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tF-B3akWqnI/VCBJDxz6f8I/AAAAAAAAC5k/vBblrm7K6BM/s1600/thepinoywarrior%2B-%2BAngono%2BPetroglyph.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tF-B3akWqnI/VCBJDxz6f8I/AAAAAAAAC5k/vBblrm7K6BM/s1600/thepinoywarrior%2B-%2BAngono%2BPetroglyph.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angono Petroglyph<br />
Image from <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/andrecawagas/154225230/" rel="nofollow">Laz'andre</a></td></tr>
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I am a true-blooded Filipino. My mother hails from Aklan and my father is from Bulacan. I have lived all my life here in the Philippines, and my feet had never touched foreign ground. I eat adobo, bagoong, nilaga, sinigang, bulalo, and all Filipino food you can think of except Durian (to the guys who like Durian, I did try but this is the part where I believe in "acquired tastes"). I believe in the Filipino Spirit, the pride of being Pinoy, the fierceness of our race and the beauty of our women. Yet, a question remains in my head. What is the identity of the Filipino?</div>
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The Angono Petroglyphs tell us people have been living in our country for at least 5,000 years. That means as a race, we can claim we're not that young, although not that advanced as the old civilizations of the planet. There's a huge gap in our history and our scientists are continually researching to uncover how our ancestors were for 4 and a half milleniums ago, but only so much can be uncovered by the experts. It might be safe to say most of the details have been lost.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Battle of Mactan Image from <a href="http://www.cebu-bluewaters.com/cebu-history.html" rel="nofollow">Cebu Bluewaters</a></td></tr>
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Only for the past 500 years we have concrete evidence of our past, yet it was shaped by external influence, ultimately changing the people of the country. Pre-colonial details of way of life has been documented because of historians and scholars brought by Spain, only to destroy it by changing our way of life. It was a radical change. Asian and European cultures clash, and our ancestors were called upon to leave their "barbaric ways." The cross and the sword changed the face of our culture. It was a slow and gradual process, making our ancestors abandon their lifestyle. Oral history became forgotten, culture and tradition became destroyed, traces of our old identity eliminated.</div>
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New culture followed after the Philippines was sold for 20 million dollars, yet the remnants of Spanish rule still exists to a huge extent plus other cultures that merged with ours. Its now a fusion. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RALQ9-wsKtI/ToH7AQTOHpI/AAAAAAAAAcE/s9enUlDX_jA/s1600/thepinoywarrior%2Blechon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RALQ9-wsKtI/ToH7AQTOHpI/AAAAAAAAAcE/s9enUlDX_jA/s1600/thepinoywarrior%2Blechon.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
We are the brown, Asian people who were educated by Americans and Christened by Spain. We love basketball although we'd never be great in that sport. Rice is still staple but 9 out of 10 birthday parties or celebration, spaghetti is on the menu. And some put banana ketchup in spaghetti sauce. Heart disease is nature's way of saying game over for most Filipinos, same as with the rest of the world. Bagoong and adobo will always be a mainstay in Filipino tables, and it will be hard to find a Pinoy backing away from a Lechon and eat on the plate with bare hands. Barongs will never go out of style, and <i>Filipiniana</i> surely means classic Pinoy fashion. There's bound to be a <i>walis</i> in every house, whether <i>ting-ting</i> or <i>tambo</i>. Men will always have a peculiar interest in cockfighting and women will always be expected to take care of their elderly parents. </div>
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The list can go on and on, there are still numerous things that are distinctively Filipino. However, with globalization, mass media and the internet, we are driven closer to other cultures over impossible distances. The gaps are bridged, and we consume more American, Korean, Chinese, Japanese and other cultures. More faster than ever, the fusion churns everything together, like a blender on steroids. Our concept of identity gets muddled, confused, and exchanged over some stereotypes starting from childhood even up to adulthood. Too bad because we are great assimilators, and on hyper mode, we could be throwing away a lot more than what is necessary.</div>
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So who is the Filipino? No one can really say. Though we resemble closely our Asian cousins, we behave and think differently. Yes we can draw it from our history and heritage, but it only speaks about the past. Language? 7,107 islands in an archipelago brings about over a hundred dialects and it wasn't a majority win. Being Filipino is a state of mind nowadays because no one is really sure. It is the age of confusion, the era of individuality, the reduction of stereotypes (you really can't make them go away, many will always be misguided). We are almost at the moment to define who we really are. When the dust settles, we will know by then our distinction. Sounds close enough? Think again.</div>
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Today it is a state of mind and a choice, for each and everyone who proudly says I am Filipino. It is the pride in our race, our culture, our customs, our traditions, and our daily way of life. The flag and the country no longer represent us, they represent the government, and the government represents the individuals who run them. Amid the corruption, the politics, the telenovelas, the overpriced coffee, the daily traffic and long lines of commute; amid the people who brave living in the country whether they have a choice or not; in the smiles of every men and women making the most out of life in the Philippines...there exists the essence of a true Filipino. Somewhere along the jagged lines and distorted circles, the dots can be connected. Until someone does so and many believe, no one can define what is a Filipino. For now, we just have to believe that we are Pinoy in our own little way, and respect how others do it, because they're not wrong...and neither are you.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-86295280179330903722014-08-06T01:28:00.000+08:002014-08-06T20:05:31.182+08:00Women's Sexuality in the Old Philippines<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Much has been said about the political and economic situation of the Old Philippines in the history books. There's been something written and published about the campaigns of the Spanish Conquistadors, the Missionaries, the Galleon Trade and the likes. History classes taught us all of these milestones but very briefly about the lifestyle and culture of ours during the different centuries of our history. One thing not readily available is<span id="goog_365480885"></span><span id="goog_365480886"></span> sexuality.</div>
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In the late 15th century, a certain historian and Jesuit priest, Pedro Chirino wrote about his stay in the country, as well as the behavior of our ancestors. He, like the other missionaries, were quick to see the practices of early Filipinos.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>According to them, <i>virginity</i> was considered as a liability for early Filipinas. Women recognize not having sexual relations at a certain age is very unfortunate and humiliating. Maybe because one can be called unattractive and nobody would like that. They believed that when one dies, a woman who hasn't slept with any man cannot go to the afterlife or will have difficulty in getting there. As retold by Spanish missionaries, no one really bothered about virgins, pre-marital relations do go all the way, and having concubines isn't strange.</div>
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Back then, the act of sexual intercourse was regarded as a beautiful, natural act and was never viewed as something shameful. To a certain extent, its something to be proud about and connects it to pleasure and fulfillment. Early Filipinos term the climax in intercourse as <i>"calualhatian,"</i> which is also the term used for the place to go in the afterlife, similar to heaven. It can be deduced that early Filipino women are proud of their bodies and sexuality, putting equal claim to it just as the men.</div>
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Since sexuality is unfettered, pregnancy is always a possibility. Curiously, the methods of birth control is rather <i>"barbaric"</i> as European historians would term it. Abortion is common, so as not to go over the comfortable level of children per family. Through the consumption of popular herbs and the help of the local herbalist at the earliest stage of pregnancy, regular menstruation is ensured as well as population control.</div>
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Don't think that our male and female ancestors are running around naked, hormones raging all the time and doing nothing but lusting after each other. Never seee what's written here as savagery. In fact, our ancestors are very sophisticated people. They were organized, clothed and very much functional in their roles to society. The boxer codex images gives us a very clear look at how early Tagalogs look like in the 1590s.<br />
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Campaigning against the "devilish" practice, the Spanish missionaries formed the image of an ideal Filipina. With the help of the newly established Spanish government structure and mass indoctrinization, slowly, women began to hide and let go of old practices. We can never know how internalized this went, but the Maria Clara image has become the stereotype maintained by the friars and priests in the minds of all that even up to now persists as a standard.<br />
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Somehow, now at the present, there is a sense of liberation for Filipino women. They are empowered, given bigger roles in society and slowly coming out of the Maria Clara shell. The daughters of Filipino families are still bound by morals, virtues and norms, yet it is a society taboo to acknowledge that these rules or tenets are frequently broken outside of marriage. It happens, no one just talks about it in the open, or else be called cheap or a whore. There is a certain confusion, as centuries of conditioning is at clash with what is probably genetically embedded in the women of the Philippines. See, the Filipina is trying to break free, trying to regain her identity.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-53841094146690398212013-11-18T01:56:00.002+08:002013-11-18T20:42:00.535+08:00Philippine National Anthem Joey Ayala Version<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Philippine National Anthem today wasn't made to be the song to stir patriotism in the hearts of every Filipino. Its lyrics came from the poet Jose Palma and the arrangement came from Julian Felipe. Neither was it intentionally put together to be the National Anthem as Julian Felipe created his marching music in 1898 while Jose Palma made his poem in Spanish during 1899. Through the years after the revolution, while we were forming our identity, the current version was ratified and used ever since.</div>
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There's a lot of fierceness, pride and passion in the words and music of our National Anthem. Even after so many years of singing and hearing it, the stir of patriotism is always being awakened. Or maybe that is just true to people who don't take the words of our anthem for granted. But at the very least, hearing the national anthem play or singing it makes Filipinos proud in one way or another.<br />
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Joey Ayala, the musician known for his music and lyric's deep roots to our culture, presented a few changes to how the Philippine National Anthem is sung. Well, he has been doing this, performing his version for quite a long time ago. But this time, it would gain a lot of attention, given the sentiment of all Filipinos because of the typhoon Yolanda. See the video below, it is somehow refreshing:</div>
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On a cultural stand point, many people don't agree with changing the word <i>"mamatay"</i> to <i>"magmahal." </i>First of all, the lyrics won't match.<i> "...aming ligaya nang pag may mang-aapi, ang "<u>mamatay</u>" ng dahil sa iyo"</i> is still perfect rather than <i>"...aming ligaya nang pag may mang-aapi, ang "<u>magmahal</u>" ng dahil sa iyo."</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://acelebrationofwomen.org/2011/06/independence-day-in-philippines-june-14-2010/" rel="nofollow">aCelebrationofWomen.org</a></td></tr>
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Second, <i>"magmahal"</i> loses the poetic side of the anthem. In technical terms, to die for something is the ultimate expression of love. But it doesn't necessarily mean dying or giving up life. Sometimes it may just mean giving up something for a purpose. Bachelors give up their life for a woman he loves in marriage. A mother gives up sleep to nurture babies at night. A government teacher exchanges a career in the private sector to teach underprivileged children. A priest surrenders to celibacy to serve the laity. Sacrifice is an expression of love, and to sacrifice one's life is the ultimate expression of love.</div>
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Third, is the context of the line. To tell the people to love those who oppress is overwhelming. On a Christian point of view, yes, that might be a core value to work for but this one is prone to misinterpretation. Further arguments on this one will take a long time so let's just leave it as it is. Besides, with the current situation of corruption and the issues we're dealing with right now, encouraging to love the oppressive and corrupt people might not be a very good idea.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jobarracuda/4060492248/sizes/z/in/photostream/" rel="nofollow">Jobaraccuda</a></td></tr>
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Bottom line, Joey Ayala is one of the most admirable artist the Philippines had ever seen. His contributions in keeping ethnic Filipino music mainstream are immense. His intentions are good. And his rendition is ultimately logical and refreshing. For a change, yes it might work. To inspire, yes it feels good to listen. To fire up pride, nationalism, and the courage to fight...people may need more time to warm up to the idea.</div>
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Joey Ayala is correct when he performed during the TEDx Diliman, our music of love is rhythmically soft and non-confrontational. But love for the country may need a more stronger, passionate and upfront genre to send the message of urgency. We are always at war. At war with ourselves, with our survival, with the matters of everyday life. Perhaps someday when people have learned more about peace and love, when there's no need of calling to fight for our way of living or our freedom or the things that we hold dear, then many people may come to appreciate some changes in our National Anthem.<br />
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On a personal note though, his version is an awesome one. Somehow it just sounds right.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-67313666773376559412013-11-16T17:50:00.002+08:002013-11-18T01:28:14.996+08:00Finding Strength After the Storm<div style="text-align: justify;">
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After withstanding the strongest recorded typhoon in history, the survivors of Yolanda showed the heart and spirit of Filipinos. The CNN broadcast journalist Anderson Cooper has been overwhelmed by how we Filipinos are in times of calamity and disaster. There's the good side and the bad side, but what Anderson can't get out of his mind is the best of the Filipino People.</div>
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Here's the video Anderson Cooper's report on CNN:</div>
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When everything else is taken away, broken, battered, soaked, raw, stripped bare, you see things. You see people as they really are. This week in Tacloban, Samar and Cebu, amidst the hunger and thirst, the chaos and confusion, we've seen the best in the Filipino people. Their strength, their courage. I can't get it out of my mind. Imagine the strength it takes for a mother to search alone for her missing kids, the strength to sleep; on the street near the body of her child.</div>
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We've seen people with every reason to despair, every right to be angry, instead find ways to laugh, to love, to stand up, to move forward.</div>
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A storm breaks wood and bone, brings hurt and heartbreak. In the end, the wind, the water, the horror it brings is not the end of the story.</div>
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With aid and assistance, compassion and care, this place, these people...they will make it through. They already survived the worst. They're bowed, perhaps tired and traumatized, but they are not broken.</div>
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Mabuhay Philippines! Maraming salamat for all you've shown us. Maraming salamat for showing us all how to live.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-72538174806442809172013-11-13T21:42:00.001+08:002013-11-18T01:58:17.219+08:00Shift: The Call Center Culture Movie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--N_UQUvD9GA/UoN_Pulba4I/AAAAAAAACtU/PmdaVaOsPbY/s1600/thepinoywarrior+shift+movie+poster+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--N_UQUvD9GA/UoN_Pulba4I/AAAAAAAACtU/PmdaVaOsPbY/s320/thepinoywarrior+shift+movie+poster+1.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
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Way back then, I belong to the call center industry. At the time when the aggressive growth of the BPO industry in the country was starting, I was an agent working to help finish off the last few months of college. To say that people in the call center behave differently than those who work in the regular office hours is an understatement. There is a different culture of Filipinos out there, and Shift is the first movie I've seen that "somehow" showed some light to the lives of individuals working in the BPO sector.</div>
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The film centers at Estela (Yeng Constantino), a no-boyfriend-since-birth girl working in a call center and Trevor (Felix Roco), a gay senior agent on Estela's team brought closer together because of a mentoring program initiated by their team leader. It is still a story of love, and how the plot ended, its up to you to find out when you watch the movie. But as a teaser of how the story went, imagine a love caught between gender orientation and preferences.</div>
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In the night shift industry, everything is different. There's no rush hour, everyone's going home when you're going to work or they're going to work when you're going home and there's a lot of taxi cabs around. You hang out only in 3 places, coffee shops, convenience stores and the few restobars that open 24 hours. Your English begins to have an accent other than the Pinoy tone. The only people you can socialize with are your call center friends who work close to your shift or the people who don't have any work. Rest days can change, schedules can shift, sometimes even job security isn't guaranteed. It is a totally different way of life, and a totally different culture.</div>
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When one is part of the call center industry, you would know how to eat in 10-15 minutes so you can sleep 30-45 minutes. They are familiar with the feel of headsets worn for several hours or the dread of the word "queuing." Most are always looking out for internal job postings in the hope moving out of the agent status, and some jump from one center to another. Given the stressful, fast-paced, metrics driven, volatile and almost monotonous environment, employment and relationships rise and fall here rather very quickly. That is why team buildings are common and employment incentives are close to extravagant.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V-eIX7oyOd0/UoOAIPB9ssI/AAAAAAAACtg/cYuNIa0jXtY/s1600/thepinoywarrior+shift+movie+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V-eIX7oyOd0/UoOAIPB9ssI/AAAAAAAACtg/cYuNIa0jXtY/s400/thepinoywarrior+shift+movie+image.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Almost everything in the film mirrors what happen in real life. The calls, the breaks, the interaction between call center employees, it was almost like a documentary with a love story and a running plot because of its detail accuracy. It was light, with a bit of humor and the fascination that it was Yeng Constantino's debut movie. Also, its the first film I've seen popping the screen of the character's phone and social media messages. </div>
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Overall, it was a great job for the director Siege Ledesma and his team. Clean shots, great cinematography and cool locations. The premiere was jam packed, all seats sold out and the film had good acceptance. If you're part of the call center industry in the Philippines, its something that you can relate to. If you're not, then its a closer look to what the call center culture is about, plus you see Yeng act for the first time in the movies. Here's the trailer of the movie:</div>
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And here are the remaining screening schedules:<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-16578991038153070762013-11-09T17:26:00.001+08:002013-11-12T19:08:11.432+08:00The Filipino Spirit is IndomitableAfter the rampage and destruction of the strongest typhoon ever to hit the Philippines, the sun is out and we Filipinos have started to walk away from the ruins and began to build our lives again.<br />
<br />
<br />
As the whole world slowly begins to know what happened to the most hard hit areas, a <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2013/11/08/world/asia/philippines-typhoon-haiyan/index.html" rel="nofollow">CNN article</a> received a comment that is both awesome and inspirational. I'd rather that you read it for yourself and know how the whole world sees us Filipinos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BghqHNZtvOA/Un37ssEOTaI/AAAAAAAACss/hu4gYGp85Es/s1600/tmp_thepinoywarrior+cnn+article+yolanda-766377333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BghqHNZtvOA/Un37ssEOTaI/AAAAAAAACss/hu4gYGp85Es/s320/tmp_thepinoywarrior+cnn+article+yolanda-766377333.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SjXpTsJHhuU/Un37yeLvK9I/AAAAAAAACs0/YvNNUyoB6Gk/s1600/tmp_thepinoywarrior+cnn+article+yolanda+comment-744709512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SjXpTsJHhuU/Un37yeLvK9I/AAAAAAAACs0/YvNNUyoB6Gk/s320/tmp_thepinoywarrior+cnn+article+yolanda+comment-744709512.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
We just keep going on and smile. Its what we
do with or without the world watching.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-58775713074976193112013-10-24T16:15:00.001+08:002013-10-24T16:15:11.692+08:00Pamamanhikan in Aklan<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DevhhAbBZko/UmjWjlrP9OI/AAAAAAAACrw/QAf7utOB3cU/s1600/thepinoywarrior+pamamanhikan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DevhhAbBZko/UmjWjlrP9OI/AAAAAAAACrw/QAf7utOB3cU/s320/thepinoywarrior+pamamanhikan.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25387223@N03/" rel="nofollow">Paolo Denali</a></td></tr>
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The advancement of technology and the influence of global culture have contributed greatly in the changes that happened to our culture and practices. As our lives were changed, so were our beliefs and traditions that little by little were given up. How we do things nowadays have a huge disparity over what ancestors did. The love and courtship rituals, are also affected.<br />
<br />
During the time of our grandparents or great-grand parents, in the province of Aklan, love, courtship and marriage is a long and comprehensive process. From selecting a partner until the time the night of the wedding, there are several recommendations on how this has to go through. What stands out is the close involvement of parents in the process, which have a higher influence on the outcome of the relationship. To ask the hand of a woman in marriage from her parents is a make-or-break milestone back then.<br />
<br />
See the paper in detail, written by Melchor Cichon which is posted on this page: <a href="http://anahawleaf.blogspot.com/2012/11/pamaeaye-in-aklan-and-its-role-in-value.html" rel="nofollow">http://anahawleaf.blogspot.com/2012/11/pamaeaye-in-aklan-and-its-role-in-value.html</a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-45496308130097177872013-09-18T00:50:00.001+08:002014-05-09T18:10:30.627+08:00An Email Question on Anting-anting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GHCjE9ITwro/UOfUGJDcI_I/AAAAAAAACSA/X4PB_Ui-bwk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+anting-anting+sto+nino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GHCjE9ITwro/UOfUGJDcI_I/AAAAAAAACSA/X4PB_Ui-bwk/s200/thepinoywarrior+anting-anting+sto+nino.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been getting many emails about anting-antings. Many have been asking me where they can find one or help them in getting some. There are people who seek for protection, for love, for improvement of relationships and and others. Others are just curious, and some are apparently searching really hard. I would like to share one email and my reply to his questions. This was originally written in Filipino, and I took the liberty of translating it in English:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Good Day Pinoy Warrior, I wish to learn where I can get anting-anting that can protect against sickness, calamities and harm. I am a man living in a violent neighborhood and I usually encounter trouble and I fear for my life. I would like to protect myself, and in the future, have the capability of protecting my family. Please tell me where to buy or teach me how I can make one as I heard you can make your own, as long as you understand. I am also interested in getting the anting-anting that can bring luck and wealth. I want to understand how to use it too and know how it works.</blockquote>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To which I answered (also translated to English):</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Dear _______, <br />
<br />
Thank you for sending in an email and for visiting my blog, I am grateful your support. About your inquiry on anting-anting, I appreciate your interest in the mystical side of our culture. It is truly interesting, although its deeper than what most people think. There’s more to it than just protection and many people have misunderstood its value.<br />
<br />
True, that some people possess anting-anting and it makes them more “supernatural.” It is also true that anting-anting allows a lot of extraordinary things to happen. But the anting-anting’s real value is often overlooked. An anting-anting is really just an object that enhances/amplifies certain qualities or energies in a person. It may help someone focus the energies or align them to the right “frequency” so he or she can do extraordinary things. It is perceived by many as a shortcut to a higher existence and capabilities, which is wrong. Same thing goes with the oracions. When one is in search for better anting-anting and oracions, it is a dead end because these are merely tools.<br />
<br />
Filipino mysticism is fundamentally geared towards improving oneself, aligning a person to the universal energies or a higher being. The Great Filipino Mystics of the past do not become great in terms of their “powers” because they possess a hard to find anting-anting or they have a very powerful oracion. They themselves had become channels or beacons of "supernatural" energies allowing them access to feats that appear to defy logic and reasoning. It can be said that they themselves had become the anting-anting or the oracion, thus would have no need for such.<br />
<br />
The fact is anting-anting and oracion is just a small part of the story and too much of it can mislead. These be looked at as objects of power, which if viewed in this manner, will definitely corrupt a person. The big chunk really is the valuing taught by the True Filipino Mystics which basically imparts <u>doing good that will make things good and would lead to goodness</u>.<br />
<br />
Take my advice, stop searching for the anting-antings and try changing your outlook and lifestyle. An albularyo once told me it is futile if you rest your faith in anting-anting or oracion, as they can fail or might not work. He said to be good and do good things. According to him, men who are good and do good are less likely to be abused or harmed or get into trouble, and in the event that they were, they would understand and still continue doing good.</blockquote>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-78587572196536274932013-07-27T23:12:00.000+08:002013-07-30T16:07:35.889+08:00Inaugural Speech of Marcos 1965<div class="entry-content">
<h5 align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Inaugural Address </b></span></h5>
<h5 align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>of </b></span></h5>
<h5 align="center">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>His Excellency Ferdinand E. Marcos</b></span></h5>
<div align="center">
[<i>Delivered at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila on December 30, 1965</i>]</div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-na_dXQWjda8/UfPa8YIu-uI/AAAAAAAACoM/-Jz4GJDxwH4/s1600/thepinoywarrior+ferdinand+marcos+inauguration+1965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-na_dXQWjda8/UfPa8YIu-uI/AAAAAAAACoM/-Jz4GJDxwH4/s320/thepinoywarrior+ferdinand+marcos+inauguration+1965.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://joseangelito-angeles.tripod.com/marcos.htm" rel="nofollow">Joselito Angeles</a><span id="goog_215540613"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_215540614"></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;">
Mr. Chief Justice, Mr. Vice‑President, Mr. Speaker, My Countrymen:</div>
</div></br>
<div class="entry-content" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="entry-content">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Sa bisa ng inyong makapangyarihang hatol
at sa pamamagitan ng mabiyayang tangkilik ng Dakilang Maykapal, narito
ako ngayon sa inyong harap sa pinagkaugalian nang ritwal sa pagtatalaga
at pagsumpa sa tungkulin ng isang bagong halal na Pangulo.</i> (By your mandate, through the grace of
the Almighty, I stand here today in the traditional ritual of the
assumption of the Presidency.)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Sa kapasiyahan ninyong ito ay muli pa
ninyong pinatunayan na matatag at matibay ang pagkakatanim ng mga ugat
ng demokrasya sa sinapupunan ng bansang ito. At sa bisa ng
kapangyarihang ipinagkaloob sa inyo ng mga batas ay naisasagawa nang
mapayapa at maayos ang pagsasalin ng kapangyarihang pampamahalaan. (</i>By your mandate, once again you have
demonstrated the vitality of our democracy by the peaceful transference
of governmental authority.)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is but fitting and proper that this
traditional ritual be undertaken on this sacred ground. For sixty‑nine
year ago today, a young patriot and prophet of our race fell upon this
beloved soil. He fell from a tyrant’s bullet and out of the martyr’s
blood that flowed copiously there sprung a new nation.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That nation became the first modern
republic in Asia and Africa. It is our nation. We are proud to point to
our country as one stable in an area of instability; where ballots, not
bullets, decide the fate of leaders and parties.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thus Kawit and Malolos are celebrated in
our history as acts of national greatness. Why national greatness?
Because, armed with nothing but raw courage and passionate intelligence
and patriotism, our predecessors built the noble edifice of the first
Asian Republic.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With the same reverence do we consider Bataan, Corregidor and the Philippine resistance movement.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today the challenge is less dramatic but
no less urgent. We must repeat the feat of our forebears in a more
commonplace sphere, away from the bloody turmoil of heroic adventure –
by hastening our social and economic transformation. For today, the
Filipino, it seems, has lost his soul, his dignity and his courage.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have come upon a phase of our history
when ideas are only a veneer for greed and power in public and private
affairs, when devotion to duty and dedication to a public trust are to
be weighed at all times against private advantages and personal gain,
and when loyalties can be traded in the open market.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our people have come to a point of
despair. I know this for I have personally met many of you. I have heard
the cries of thousands and clasped hands in brotherhood with millions
of you. I know the face of despair and I know the face of hunger because
I have seen it in our barrios, huts and hovels all over our land.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have ceased to value order as a
social virtue. Law, we have learned successfully to flaunt. We have
become past masters at devising slogans for the sake of recorders of his
history but not for those who would live by them in terms of honor and
dignity.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Peace in our time, we declare. But we
can not guarantee life and limb in our growing cities. Prosperity for
all, we promise. But only a privileged few achieve it, and, to make the
pain obvious, parade their comforts and advantages before the eyes of an
impoverished many. Justice and security are as myths rendered into
elaborate fictions to dramatize our so‑called well‑being and our happy
march to progress.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But you have rejected all these through a
new mandate of leadership. It is a mandate that imposes a change of
leadership in this country, and to me, as your President, this mandate
is clear – it is a mandate not merely for change. It is a mandate for
greatness.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For indeed we must rise from the depths
of ignominy and failure. Our government is gripped in the iron hand of
venality, its treasury is barren, its resources are wasted, its civil
service is slothful and indifferent, its armed forces demoralized and
its councils sterile.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But we shall draw from our rich resources of spiritual strength that flow from this place of martyrdom.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are in crisis. You know that the
government treasury is empty. Only by severed self‑denial will there be
hope for recovery within the next year.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our government in the past few months
has exhausted all available domestic and foreign sources of borrowing.
Our public financial institutions have been burdened to the last
loanable peso. The lending capacity of the Central Bank has been
utilized to the full. Our national government is indebted to our local
governments. There are no funds available for public works and little of
the appropriations for our national government for the present fiscal
year. Industry is at a standstill. Many corporations have declared
bankruptcy. Local manufacturing firms<i> </i>have been compelled to close or reduce their capacity.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Unemployment has increased. Prices of
essential commodities and services remain unstable. The availability of
rice remains uncertain. Very recently the transportation companies with
the sanction of the Public Service Commission hiked their fares on the
plea of survival.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I, therefore, first call upon the public
servants for self-sacrifice. Long have we depended upon the people. In
every crisis, we call upon our citizens to bear the burden of sacrifice.
Now, let the people depend upon us. The economic viability of the
government and of the nation requires immediate retrenchment.
Accordingly, we must install without any delay a policy of rigorous
fiscal restraint.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every form of waste – or of conspicuous consumption and extravagance, shall be condemned as inimical to public welfare<i>.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Frugality with government funds and
resources must be developed into a habit at every level of the
government. High public officials<b> </b>must themselves set the example.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the most galling of our inherited
problems is that of lawlessness. Syndicated crime has been spawned by
smuggling. The democratic rule of law has lost all meaning and majesty,
since all men know that public officials combine with unscrupulous
businessmen to defraud government and the public – with absolute
impunity. The sovereignty of the republic has never before been derided
and mocked as when the lawless elements, smuggling syndicates and their
protectors, disavow the power of laws and of our government over them.
This is the climate for criminality. Popular faith in the government
deteriorates.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We must, therefore, aim quickly at the
establishment of a genuine rule of law. We shall use the fullest powers
of the Presidency to stop smuggling and lawlessness.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I, therefore, call upon all to join
hands with me in maintaining the supremacy of the law. To those flaunt
the law, I say: this is my constitutional duty and I am resolved to
perform it. But it is not mine alone but yours. For whether Filipino or
alien you survive under the mantle of protection granted by our laws. I
am pledged to execute the law and preserve the constitution of our
republic. This I shall do. And if need be I shall direct the forcible if
legal elimination of all lawless elements.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our social policy will seek to broaden
the base of our democracy. Our forefathers built a democratic republic
on an extremely narrow social and economic base. The task<i> </i>of
our generation is to broaden this base continuously. We must spread
opportunities for higher incomes for all. But we shall encourage
investment to insure progressive production – the true answer to our
economic ills.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our people sought a new administration in the expectation of a meaningful change – certainly a bolder, more courageous approach<b> </b>to our problems.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
They must have believed that we can provide this new outlook, and perhaps<b> </b>the passion for excellence – the motive force for greatness.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We shall provide this approach, the
necessary change of pace, the new outlook that places large demands and
large challenges before the nation. The human person is unique in
creation. Of all organisms, it is he that develops in proportion to the
demands made upon his abilities. That is true of individuals and I hold
it to be true of nations.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2AaN_zs_PoY/UfPdleIgIFI/AAAAAAAACoc/MiPa0jrHYJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+ferdinand+marcos+inauguration+2+1965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2AaN_zs_PoY/UfPdleIgIFI/AAAAAAAACoc/MiPa0jrHYJk/s320/thepinoywarrior+ferdinand+marcos+inauguration+2+1965.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/a-dynasty-on-steroids-20121119-29kwy.html" rel="nofollow">smh.com.au</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Recently, we have come to realize that economic planning is as essential for freedom as political planning.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Before today we had squandered the
energies and resourcefulness of our people. In the government we saw a
crippling hesitancy and timidity to face the facts of our times and to
boldly provide the initiative.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We cannot afford to rest on the shock of
our perceptions, nor on the outrage even of our painful admission of
the facts. We shall have to restore into our life the vitality which had
been corroded by our complacency.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In international affairs, we shall be
guided by the national interests and by the conscience of our society in
response to the dilemma of man in the 20th century.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Filipino today lives is a world that
is increasingly Asian as well as African. Asia claims one‑half of all
humanity, and this half lives on a little over one‑sixth of the earth’s
habitable surface. Africa’s millions are also now coming to their own.
Recent events have shown the willingness of our Asian friends to build a
bridge to us. We can do less than to build strong foundations at our
end.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today, as never before, we need a new
orientation toward Asian; we must intensify the cultural identity with
ancient kin, and make common cause with them in our drive toward
prosperity and peace. For this we shall require the understanding of
ourselves and of Asia that exceeds acquaintance; we require the kind of
knowledge that can only be gained through unabating scholarship on our
histories, cultures, social forces and aspirations, and through more
active interaction with our friends and neighbors.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What threatens humanity in another area
threatens our society as well. We cannot, therefore, merely contemplate
the risks of our century without coming into any on our own. Wherever
there is a fight for freedom we cannot remain aloof from it. But
whatever decision shall have to make shall be determined by our own
interests tempered by the reasonability of that patriotic position in
relation to the international cause.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This nation can be great again. This I
have said over and over. It is my article of faith, and Divine
Providence has willed that you and I can now translate this faith into
deeds.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have repeatedly told you: each
generation writes its own history. Our forbears have written theirs.
With fortitude and excellence we must write ours.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We must renew the vision of greatness for our country.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a vision of our people rising
above the routine to face formidable challenges and overcome them. It
means the rigorous pursuit of excellence.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is a government that acts as the
guardian of the law’s majesty, the source of justice to the weak and
solace to the underprivileged, a ready friend and protector of the
common man and a sensitive instrument of his advancement and not
captivity.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This vision rejects and discards the inertia of centuries.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is a vision of the jungles opening up
to the farmers’ tractor and plow, and the wilderness claimed for
agriculture and the support of human life; the mountains yielding their
boundless treasure, rows of factories turning the harvests of our fields
into a thousand products.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is the transformation of the Philippines into a hub of progress – of trade and commerce in Southeast Asia.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is our people bravely determining our own future. For to make the future is the supreme act of freedom.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a vision that all of you share
for our country’s future. It is a vision which can, and should, engage
the energies of the nation. This vision must touch the deeper layers of
national vitality and energy.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We must awake the hero inherent in every man.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We must harness the wills and the hearts
of all our people. We must find the secret chords which turn ordinary
men into heroes, mediocre fighters into champions.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Not one hero alone do I ask from you – but many; nay all, I ask all of you to be the heroes of our nation.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Offering all our efforts to our Creator, we must drive ourselves to be great again.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is your dream and mine. By your
choice you have committed yourselves to it. Come then, let us march
together towards the dream of greatness.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-9692536076815432262013-07-04T19:13:00.001+08:002013-09-18T20:15:41.263+08:00The Battle of Mactan by Pigafetta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k3O7a_pPII0/UdVWnpJh28I/AAAAAAAACnQ/zk7p1XADDis/s454/thepinoywarrior+battle+of+mactan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k3O7a_pPII0/UdVWnpJh28I/AAAAAAAACnQ/zk7p1XADDis/s320/thepinoywarrior+battle+of+mactan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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From our history books and the lessons in elementary and high school history classes, we all know that a fierce battle happened right after the discovery of the Philippines. We all know that it involved two of the most famous men in our country's history, Ferdinand Magellan and Datu Lapu-lapu and the shores of an island in the Visayas witnessed how Magellan's journey around the world was cut short.</div>
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</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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To those who are contented with what's written on the history books, good for you guys. But for those who want to read the account of an eyewitness of the battle, here is an excerpt from the book of Antonio Pigafetta, an Italian scholar, explorer and chronicler of Magellan's Voyage.</div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
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"On Friday, April twenty-six, Zula, a chief of the island of Matan, sent one of his sons to present two goats to the captain-general, and to say that he would send him all that he had promised, but that he had not been able to send it to him because of the other chief Cilapulapu, who refused to obey the king of Spagnia. He requested the captain to send him only one boatload of men on the next night, so that they might help him and fight against the other chief. The captain-general decided to go thither with three boatloads. We begged him repeatedly not to go, but he, like a good shepherd, refused to abandon his flock. At midnight, sixty men of us set out armed with corselets and helmets, together with the Christian king, the prince, some of the chief men, and twenty or thirty balanguais. <br /><br />We reached Matan three hours before dawn. The captain did not wish to fight then, but sent a message to the natives by the Moro to the effect that if they would obey the king of Spagnia, recognize the Christian king as their sovereign, and pay us our tribute, he would be their friend; but that if they wished otherwise, they should wait to see how our lances wounded. They replied that if we had lances they had lances of bamboo and stakes hardened with fire. [They asked us] not to proceed to attack them at once, but to wait until morning, so that they might have more men. They said that in order to induce us to go in search of them; for they had dug certain pitholes between the houses in order that we might fall into them. </div>
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When morning came forty-nine of us leaped into the water up to our thighs, and walked through water for more than two crossbow flights before we could reach the shore. The boats could not approach nearer because of certain rocks in the water. The other eleven men remained behind to guard the boats. When we reached land, those men had formed in three divisions to the number of more than one thousand five hundred persons. When they saw us, they charged down upon us with exceeding loud cries, two divisions on our flanks and the other on our front. When the captain saw that, he formed us into two divisions, and thus did we begin to fight. The musketeers and crossbowmen shot from a distance for about a halfhour, but uselessly; for the shots only passed through the shields which were made of thin wood and the arms [of the bearers]. The captain cried to them, " Cease firing! cease firing I " but his order was not at all heeded. When the natives saw that we were shooting our muskets to no purpose, crying out they determined to stand firm, but they redoubled their shouts. When our muskets were discharged, the natives would never stand still, but leaped hither and thither, covering themselves with their shields. They shot so many arrows at us and hurled so many bamboo spears (some of them tipped with iron) at the captain-general, besides pointed stakes hardened with fire, stones, and mud, that we could scarcely defend ourselves. Seeing that, the captain-general sent some men to burn their houses in order to terrify them. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When they saw their houses burning, they were roused to greater fury. Two of our men were killed near the houses, while we burned twenty or thirty houses. So many of them charged down upon us that they shot the captain through the right leg with a poisoned arrow. On that account, he ordered us to retire slowly, but the men took to flight, except six or eight of us who remained with the captain. The natives shot only at our legs, for the latter were bare; and so many were the spears and stones that they hurled at us, that we could offer no resistance. The mortars in the boats could not aid us as they were too far away. So we continued to retire for more than a good crossbow flight from the shore always fighting up to our knees in the water. The natives continued to pursue us, and picking up the same spear four or six times, hurled it at us again and again. Recognizing the captain, so many turned upon him that they knocked his helmet off his head twice, but he always stood firmly like a good knight, together with some others. Thus did we fight for more than one hour, refusing to retire farther. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
An Indian hurled a bamboo spear into the captain's face, but the latter immediately killed him with his lance, which he left in the Indian's body. Then, trying to lay hand on sword, he could draw it out but halfway, because he had been wounded in the arm with a bamboo spear. When the natives saw that, they all hurled themselves upon him. One of them wounded him on the left leg with a large cutlass, which resembles a scimitar, only being larger. That caused the captain to fall face downward, when immediately they rushed upon him with iron and bamboo spears and with their cutlasses, until they killed our mirror, our light, our comfort, and our true guide. When they wounded him, he turned back many times to see whether we were all in the boats. Thereupon, beholding him dead, we, wounded, retreated, as best we could, to the boats, which were already pulling off. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Christian king would have aided us, but the captain charged him before we landed, not to leave his balanghai, but to stay to see how we fought. When the king learned that the captain was dead, he wept. Had it not been for that unfortunate captain, not a single one of us would have been saved in the boats, for while he was fighting the others retired to the boats. I hope through [the efforts of] your most illustrious Lordship that the fame of so noble a captain will not become effaced in our times. Among the other virtues which he possessed, he was more constant than ever any one else in the greatest of adversity. He endured hunger better than all the others, and more accurately than any man in the world did he understand sea charts and navigation. And that this was the truth was seen openly, for no other had had so much natural talent nor the boldness to learn how to circumnavigate the world, as he had almost done. That battle was fought on Saturday, April twenty-seven, 1521.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The captain desired to fight on Saturday, because it was the day especially holy to him. Eight of our men were killed with him in that battle, and four Indians, who had become Christians and who had come afterward to aid usi were killed by the mortars of the boats. Of the enemy, only fifteen were killed, while many of us were wounded.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />In the afternoon the Christian king sent a message with our consent to the people of Matan, to the effect that if they would give us the captain and the other men who had been killed, we would give them as much merchandise as they wished. They answered that they would not give up such a man, as we imagined [they would do], and that they would not give him for all the riches in the world, but that they intended to keep him as a memorial."</div>
</blockquote>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Excerpt from Magellan's voyage around the world (1906)</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Antonio Pigafetta</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Translated by James Alexander Robertson</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-14475523013452013692013-05-29T13:50:00.000+08:002013-05-29T13:50:10.979+08:00Do's and Don'ts of the Philippine Flag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mAXfrD_xGMU/UWGdvRC03wI/AAAAAAAACYU/Q2vbEuejgw4/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine-flag.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mAXfrD_xGMU/UWGdvRC03wI/AAAAAAAACYU/Q2vbEuejgw4/s320/thepinoywarrior+philippine-flag.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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In accordance to Executive Order No. 179, of 1994, we are encourage to display, in our homes and all practicable places, prominently the symbol of our nation from May 28 until June 12 every year. However, not everyone is aware of the Do's and Don'ts of displaying the Philippine Flag, so it is prone to desecration. As public service, we've come up with an article describing the guidelines of taking care of our Flag.</div>
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The contents of this article are sourced from the <a href="http://www.nhcp.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=category&sectionid=2&id=1&Itemid=5" rel="nofollow">National Historical Commission Website</a>.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Reverence for the Philippine Flag</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
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The national flag alone should be displayed in all public offices,
buildings, official residences, public squares and institutions of
learning everyday of the year.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The flag should be displayed in the open only from sunrise to sunset,
except on places designated by law and therefore should be properly
illuminated.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When flown from a flagpole, the flag should have its blue stripe on top in time of peace and red on top in time of war.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The flag should not be displayed on horizontal position or hung fastened
by its fly. The fly portion of the flag should be free to move.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When displayed vertically, the triangle should be on top. The blue field
should be to the right (left of the observer) in time of peace, and the
red field to the right (left of the observer) in rime of war.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When displayed over the middle of a street, as between buildings or
post, the flag should be suspended vertically with the blue stripe
pointing to north or east.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When a number of flags are grouped and displayed from stationary staffs,
the Philippine flag should be in the center at the highest point or at
the right of the other flag.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Philippine National Flag must not be smaller than the others.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When flown with flags or pennants of organizations on the same halyard
(for special occasion only), the Philippine flag should be at the peak.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When displayed with another flag from crossed staff, the Philippine flag
should be on its right side (left side of the observer), and its staff
should be over the staff of the other flag. Two Philippine flags should
never be thus displayed.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
When the national flag is borne in a parade with other flags or of other
nations, it should always be in front and in the center of the line of
the other flags.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
When used on a speaker's platform without the staff, it should be
displayed vertically and placed above and behind the speaker. It should
never be used to cover the speaker's desk or to drape over the front of
the platform.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When mounted on a platform, the flag should be placed on the presiding
officer's right and a bit in front, as he faces the congregation. Other
flags should be on his left. However, when it is displayed on a level
with the congregation, it is placed on the right of the congregation.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The flag should be flown from a staff when displayed on a float. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When the flag is flown at half-mast t symbolize mourning, it must first
be raised t full mast, allowing it to fly there for a moment before
bringing it down to half-mast. To lower the flag at sunset or any other
time when ordered, it must again be raised to full mast before it is
brought down;</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When the flag is displayed on a small staff or in a parade, mourning is
indicated by attaching black ribbon to the spearhead, allowing the
ribbon to fall naturally.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When used to cover a casket, the triangle should be over the head and
the blue stripe over the right side of the body. The flag should not
touch the ground.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The flag should not be used as curtain or drape. Use buntings of blue,
white and red. The blue color in the bunting should be at the top or at
the point of honor and it must be equally in width.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On national holidays and on historical and special occasions as the
President or local chief executive may proclaim, the Philippine Flag
shall be displayed in all public and private places, buildings including
residences.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II1SUVRRd_U/UaV7Rf8A0tI/AAAAAAAACdE/thYNPDUJiJk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+flag+small.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tattered, faded or worn-out flags should be replaced immediately. They
should be disposed off or destroyed privately, preferably by burning.</div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Prohibited Acts on the Philippine Flag </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K6-UKLJAx4A/UaV-BEhW7dI/AAAAAAAACdU/L8yRR2sfTSg/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+mutilate.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K6-UKLJAx4A/UaV-BEhW7dI/AAAAAAAACdU/L8yRR2sfTSg/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+mutilate.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To mutilate, deface, trample on, cast contempt, or commit any act or
ommission casting dishonor or ridicule upon the National Flag or over
its surface. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
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</div>
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</div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WmM4BpSpbM/UaV-OT6pzWI/AAAAAAAACdc/n1y829MlXqg/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+dip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WmM4BpSpbM/UaV-OT6pzWI/AAAAAAAACdc/n1y829MlXqg/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+dip.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To dip the National Flag to any person or object by way of compliment or salute. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fHgylHr1Mns/UaV-2udPiNI/AAAAAAAACdk/ePSsV2B9hlk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+tablecover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fHgylHr1Mns/UaV-2udPiNI/AAAAAAAACdk/ePSsV2B9hlk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+tablecover.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To use the National Flag as drapery, festoon or tablecloth.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WoloOuW0XM4/UaV_Co1-4aI/AAAAAAAACds/1d6Jo3vVu_U/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WoloOuW0XM4/UaV_Co1-4aI/AAAAAAAACds/1d6Jo3vVu_U/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+bus.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To use the National Flag as pennant in the hood, side, back and top of motor vehicles.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP1lgIihgBU/UaV_RIpPOTI/AAAAAAAACd0/_SoQmFCBWqc/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+baton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZP1lgIihgBU/UaV_RIpPOTI/AAAAAAAACd0/_SoQmFCBWqc/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+baton.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To use the National Flag as a staff or whip.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T6_b9QJsC9k/UaV_r9KB_fI/AAAAAAAACd8/TYINY9M2fAA/s1600/thpinoywarrior+philippine+flag+coverflag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T6_b9QJsC9k/UaV_r9KB_fI/AAAAAAAACd8/TYINY9M2fAA/s1600/thpinoywarrior+philippine+flag+coverflag.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To use the National Flag for unveiling monuments or statues.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3QcevgGj5ng/UaV_6MfgnzI/AAAAAAAACeE/LCL-yhW0sVc/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+tapes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3QcevgGj5ng/UaV_6MfgnzI/AAAAAAAACeE/LCL-yhW0sVc/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+tapes.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To use the National Flag as trademarks, or for industrial, commercial or agricultural labels or designs. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1pkqGPi4xR4/UaWAMLrZyVI/AAAAAAAACeM/JCZDxD2VQxk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+under.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1pkqGPi4xR4/UaWAMLrZyVI/AAAAAAAACeM/JCZDxD2VQxk/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+under.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To diplay the National Flag under any painting or picture.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E03jMbFHDvg/UaWAjroDOEI/AAAAAAAACeU/TmapMRHIFdM/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+under+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E03jMbFHDvg/UaWAjroDOEI/AAAAAAAACeU/TmapMRHIFdM/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+under+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To display the National Flag horizontally. It shall always be hoisted aloft and be allowed to fall freely.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKKgct_YB0I/UaWAzdsodpI/AAAAAAAACec/WO6ADJc8vps/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+under+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKKgct_YB0I/UaWAzdsodpI/AAAAAAAACec/WO6ADJc8vps/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+under+3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To display the National Flag below any platform.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_6eGjthp8wA/UaWBLxD7SGI/AAAAAAAACek/DZQcRU2QdPY/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_6eGjthp8wA/UaWBLxD7SGI/AAAAAAAACek/DZQcRU2QdPY/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+bar.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To display the National Flag in discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints and places of vice or where frivolity prevails.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KOxfNCpeGD8/UaWBZN1BdjI/AAAAAAAACes/HOEgmIgq5u4/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KOxfNCpeGD8/UaWBZN1BdjI/AAAAAAAACes/HOEgmIgq5u4/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+dress.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To wear the National Flag in whole or in part as a costume or uniform.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CSZj4LkFu0M/UaWBoe5YFpI/AAAAAAAACe0/l2cilT94IZU/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+writings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CSZj4LkFu0M/UaWBoe5YFpI/AAAAAAAACe0/l2cilT94IZU/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+writings.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawings, advertisement, or imprint of any nature on the National Flag.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wHWQ7Y9zv94/UaWB219B7II/AAAAAAAACe8/AaOPuS3fsJw/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+goods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wHWQ7Y9zv94/UaWB219B7II/AAAAAAAACe8/AaOPuS3fsJw/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+goods.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To print, paint or attach representation of the National Flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and articles of merchandise.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4olZ_6LUQvo/UaWRPQ6EtlI/AAAAAAAACfM/ZOnJHbKHFtI/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+foreign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4olZ_6LUQvo/UaWRPQ6EtlI/AAAAAAAACfM/ZOnJHbKHFtI/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+foreign.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To display in public any foreign flag, except in embassies and other
diplomatic establishment, and in offices of international organizations.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_IEjm7osPNE/UaWRdsxYv7I/AAAAAAAACfU/n8koyZ51cS0/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+infomercial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_IEjm7osPNE/UaWRdsxYv7I/AAAAAAAACfU/n8koyZ51cS0/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine+flag+infomercial.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To use or display or be part of any advertisement or infomercial. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-12195048361226160292013-05-21T18:13:00.004+08:002013-05-21T18:13:39.712+08:00Why I Don't Like Going to Church on Sundays<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qoHx1nMxTPA/UZtEhxz-vvI/AAAAAAAACb8/8sxxRkEaPAY/s1600/thepinoywarrior+-+first+mass+in+the+philippines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="158" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qoHx1nMxTPA/UZtEhxz-vvI/AAAAAAAACb8/8sxxRkEaPAY/s320/thepinoywarrior+-+first+mass+in+the+philippines.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/Tagalog_Default_files/Philippine_Culture/spread_of_roman_catholicism_and_.htm" rel="nofollow">Seasite.niu.edu</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Don't get this article wrong. I am a former seminarian, a devout Catholic, a faithful of the Roman Catholic Church and knows very well what <i>excommunication</i> means. This is not to encourage anyone not to go to mass during Sundays, but a plea to take note of existing concerns. These are just observations of a Filipino layman experiencing the rite of the Holy Mass.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Spanish conquistadors brought to the country Catholicism, which spread naturally as the colonial reach of Spain got established in the Philippines. These hundreds of years under the Spanish rule cultivated the Christian virtues to Filipinos, reaching almost every inhabited island, which is still evident nowadays just by looking at the number of churches erected. Religion is a very important facet of our identity, and a very compelling aspect of our lives.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The language used in Catholic rites before Filipinos were allowed to become priests was Latin. It had that mysterious appeal, a "holier" feel on things. Upon the arrival of the Americans, the rites were translated into English, then eventually became Filipino. Throughout these eras, enough attention was given to ensure participation of the lay people booklets or guides so we can follow and respond. Honestly, a lot of people nowadays feel alienated when attending mass.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So what are the obvious discomfort? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KPssepBCgdk/UZtHcBzAMtI/AAAAAAAACcU/XEnKx-FjAiM/s1600/thepinoywarrior+-+catholic+mass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KPssepBCgdk/UZtHcBzAMtI/AAAAAAAACcU/XEnKx-FjAiM/s320/thepinoywarrior+-+catholic+mass.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.newsdaily.com/article/63a7880b43208e46ae535b82aae341ce/catholic-church-seeks-to-regain-power-in-philippines" rel="nofollow">NewsDaily.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One, there were changes in the cues and responses throughout the celebration as reported by <a href="http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/224578/news/nation/catholic-church-to-change-mass-liturgy-in-2012" rel="nofollow">GMA Network</a>. Change is good, as it is a universal fact that the only thing constant is change. At one point or another, things are really going to evolve. But with modifications, support has to be there so participative individuals can keep up. Apparently, this has been overlooked.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I was young, the whole text of the mass is projected on a wall near the priest so that everyone can follow. That was great help. But for the sake of those with poor eyesight, missalettes are printed out and given away as free before the mass starts. Obviously cost-cutting measures have been implemented because people rarely get misalette copies presently.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Two, still on the changes. According to the <a href="http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today/new-mass-rites-greeted-disappointment-shrugs-virginia" rel="nofollow">National Catholic Reporter</a>, many people find the words too intimidating. Some are seemingly too complex, both for non-Catholics and the Catholics. On the New Apostle's Creed, the words "was incarnate" and "cosubstantiate" are jargons, and the whole prayer seemed heavy and difficult overall. Of course, through recitation and familiarization, it will not be as bad in the long run. The problem is, where is the support to help the lay people keep up?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Vrz1tjApwY/UZtHFSAG9QI/AAAAAAAACcM/Ykd0mrVejdY/s1600/thepinoywarrior+-+our+father.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Vrz1tjApwY/UZtHFSAG9QI/AAAAAAAACcM/Ykd0mrVejdY/s320/thepinoywarrior+-+our+father.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.newsdaily.com/article/63a7880b43208e46ae535b82aae341ce/catholic-church-seeks-to-regain-power-in-philippines" rel="nofollow">NewsDaily.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Three, the choirs and the songs. Frustrated musicians and composers must have joined the ranks of the service. Its a noble deed, in fact, everyone should be thankful they're rendering their talent and resources to make the liturgical celebration worthwhile, only a lot of them must have overdone it.</div>
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Has anyone noticed that when you sing The Lord's Prayer, there are probably a thousand versions and permutations to its musical accompaniment and way of singing? People had been tinkering with it and modifying it as they please. Every church you go to has their own version, or much worse, every batch of choir in every church has their own favorite version. Same thing goes with the other "singable" part of the mass. During the Opening hymn, the Offertory, Communion and the Closing Hymn, no one sings anymore because the choir have their best selection being played and are trying to make it a mini-concert of their own. Now how can the participants of the mass "participate" with that going on? What happened to the old church songs that are soulful and inspirational, yet simple and very relevant to the faithful?</div>
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Participation has been very important, especially for me. To be able to partake in a community of faithful is essential. One hour every week is all the chance we get to fulfill our religious obligations. While most want to make it count, the feeling of alienation prevents many from getting involved. The faithful merely becomes an audience, not a participant. Inspite of being physically present at the church, a passive "audience" is a distracted and bored one. We go to church to be able to sing, pray, respond and participate and get involved in the Holy Mass.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-11395112315758309662013-04-08T00:56:00.001+08:002013-04-08T00:56:08.723+08:00Philippine Flag History<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAXfrD_xGMU/UWGdvRC03wI/AAAAAAAACYQ/nNjMmXVcqu0/s1600/thepinoywarrior+philippine-flag.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAXfrD_xGMU/UWGdvRC03wI/AAAAAAAACYQ/nNjMmXVcqu0/s320/thepinoywarrior+philippine-flag.gif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From HopeandFail.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>"Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y tagumpay na nagniningning. Ang bituin at araw niya kailan pa ma'y di magdidilim."</i></div>
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These are the translated words of Jose Palma, a poet and soldier, to be rendered in accordance with the musical composition of Julian Felipe. The verse talks about the symbols of the Philippine Flag, and what it should represent for every Filipino. Should.</div>
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Our nation's flag tells everyone a story, which has been a part of our school's curriculum since the primary education stages. We've grown so used to it that many might have taken it for granted, thus forgotten or just became out of mind. What the Philippine Flag meant for our ancestors just don't mean as much to many Filipinos anymore. Like the flag's evolution, its meaning too might have evolved.</div>
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It all started with the idea of the Katipunan. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(Credits to National Historical Commission for images and texts on Flags).</i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zvS8CtJ7tiI/UWGaYfRbUEI/AAAAAAAACXI/UaCH-9nK2lI/s1600/thepinoywarrior+katipunan+flag+1.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zvS8CtJ7tiI/UWGaYfRbUEI/AAAAAAAACXI/UaCH-9nK2lI/s1600/thepinoywarrior+katipunan+flag+1.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The three Ks stood for Kataastasang Kakagalanggalangang Katipunan or Most High & Most Sacred Society.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lhFhUOeP7Ek/UWGap7XbxjI/AAAAAAAACXQ/FusJhx3lDfc/s1600/thepinoywarrior+katipunan+flag+2.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lhFhUOeP7Ek/UWGap7XbxjI/AAAAAAAACXQ/FusJhx3lDfc/s1600/thepinoywarrior+katipunan+flag+2.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An early version of the Katipunan Flag. It has the 3 Ks arranged in an equilateral traingle.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CGrfH8EsQkw/UWGbkhA6zwI/AAAAAAAACXY/navQ4DgK83M/s1600/thepinoywarrior+katipunan+flag+3.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CGrfH8EsQkw/UWGbkhA6zwI/AAAAAAAACXY/navQ4DgK83M/s1600/thepinoywarrior+katipunan+flag+3.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flag with only one “K” at the center. All versions had a red background to denote the revolutionary character of the Katipunan.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yAqs-Qo37YI/UWGbpLO1VWI/AAAAAAAACXg/ifxr8TYISEg/s1600/thepinoywarrior+bonifacio+flag.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yAqs-Qo37YI/UWGbpLO1VWI/AAAAAAAACXg/ifxr8TYISEg/s1600/thepinoywarrior+bonifacio+flag.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bonifacio’s Flag. First used at the Cry of Pugadlawin on August 23, 1896.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5cfBr7PH48/UWGbuvKviGI/AAAAAAAACXo/Q5vg8SPEdw8/s1600/thepinoywarrior+magdiwang+flag.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5cfBr7PH48/UWGbuvKviGI/AAAAAAAACXo/Q5vg8SPEdw8/s1600/thepinoywarrior+magdiwang+flag.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magdiwang Flag. Magdiwang chapter used this flag up to the time the Pact of Biak-na-Bato was signed.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eVYnXMfJfaA/UWGbzjeVuPI/AAAAAAAACXw/FDmo3z9kGyM/s1600/thepinoywarrior+naic+flag.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eVYnXMfJfaA/UWGbzjeVuPI/AAAAAAAACXw/FDmo3z9kGyM/s1600/thepinoywarrior+naic+flag.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Official Revision. The first official revision of the flag took
place after the 1897 Naic conference presided by Aguinaldo.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgF8cn7kB90/UWGb97NvdBI/AAAAAAAACX4/qkoSiO2xjj8/s1600/thepinoywarrior+llanera+flag.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgF8cn7kB90/UWGb97NvdBI/AAAAAAAACX4/qkoSiO2xjj8/s1600/thepinoywarrior+llanera+flag.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Llanera’s Flag. Design was derived from the Katipunan initiation rite
using a black hat, white triangle & the letters Z,Ll, B.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5fTn5gAz574/UWGcOaLV-xI/AAAAAAAACYA/Ume6bgi0NEg/s1600/thepinoywarrior+gregorio+del+pilar+flag.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5fTn5gAz574/UWGcOaLV-xI/AAAAAAAACYA/Ume6bgi0NEg/s1600/thepinoywarrior+gregorio+del+pilar+flag.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gregorio del Pilar’s Flag. The design was patterned after the flag of Cuba, then in revolt against Spain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-byK1asw69_U/UWGcTB7yW4I/AAAAAAAACYI/0y-qeNUF-XA/s1600/thepinoywarrior+pio+del+pilar+flag.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-byK1asw69_U/UWGcTB7yW4I/AAAAAAAACYI/0y-qeNUF-XA/s1600/thepinoywarrior+pio+del+pilar+flag.GIF" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pio Del Pilar’s Flag. Bandila ng Matagumpay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The present flag came from Hongkong, made by Marcela Marino Agoncillo, before Aguinaldo set sail for the Philippines. After a bloody battle between Filipino and Spanish forces on May 28, 1898, our flag was hoisted for the first time in celebration of victory over Spain.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nIh9qIl4R_4/UWGkdo9SDVI/AAAAAAAACYY/03IoFFnLTak/s1600/thepinoywarrior+making+of+the+flag+amorsolo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nIh9qIl4R_4/UWGkdo9SDVI/AAAAAAAACYY/03IoFFnLTak/s320/thepinoywarrior+making+of+the+flag+amorsolo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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While some may argue that our independence during the declaration wasn't a real one, freedom is a state of mind, and during the time of declaration at Kawit, Cavite, independence was ours because we claimed it. Though the emotions evoked by the national flag is not as powerful as it was before, our nation's symbol can still stir patriotism in the hearts of every Filipino. </div>
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Try this. Every time the national anthem is sung in front of the Philippine flag, feel the words and the music with your heart. You're bound to find out something really interesting.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-91519751185810664562013-02-11T01:29:00.001+08:002013-02-11T01:31:23.523+08:00Jose Abad Santos. A Filipino Hero.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tVgeI0HPua4/URfWeCTx_dI/AAAAAAAACVE/hlDcoQR_W3c/s1600/thepinoywarrior+jose+abad+santos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tVgeI0HPua4/URfWeCTx_dI/AAAAAAAACVE/hlDcoQR_W3c/s320/thepinoywarrior+jose+abad+santos.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
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<i>"Do not cry, Pepito, show to these people that you are brave. It is
an honor to die for one's country. Not everybody has that chance."</i></div>
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Those were the last words of a man to his son, about to be executed during the Japanese occupation here in the Philippines. He was the acting President of the Philippines before his capture and his refusal to cooperate earned him martyrdom for the country. His name is Jose Abad Santos.</div>
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<i> </i></div>
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His face has been immortalized in the 1,000 pesos bill along with 2 other heroes, but his story isn't known to many. Abad Santos was a man who achieved great things in a time of relative peace. He wasn't just a lawyer, but rose to the ranks to becoming the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. His patriotism is just like all the other heroes who died for the country, unparalleled.</div>
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Before his execution, he was with President Quezon on Corregidor, but
they both evacuated to the Visayas region. Quezon moved to Australia and
Abad Santos choose to be left in the country. It was during these times
that he was appointed as the acting President of the Commonwealth
Philippines, in addition to his duties as Chief Justice and Secretary of
Finance, Agriculture, and Commerce. Later on he was captured at Cebu,
interrogated and tried to be recruited by the Japanese. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P80_DMWq2vs/URfWrJEYXNI/AAAAAAAACVM/hP83PaUk7_M/s1600/thepinoywarrior+abad+santos+with+quezon+cabinet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P80_DMWq2vs/URfWrJEYXNI/AAAAAAAACVM/hP83PaUk7_M/s320/thepinoywarrior+abad+santos+with+quezon+cabinet.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right, Jose Avelino (Secretary of Labor), Benigno S. Aquino Sr. (Secretary of Agriculture), Rafael Alunan (Secretary of the Interior), Quezon, Manuel Roxas (Secretary of Finance), Jose Abad Santos (Secretary of Justice) and Jorge Bocobo (Secretary of Public Instruction).</td></tr>
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Some time after his capture, the order of his execution has been sent out. He was charged with the burning of Cebu City, the authorization of issuing emergency bank notes, and his refusal to ask General Roxas' surrender. The execution was carried out in Malabang, Lanao del Norte. His grave was shown to his son Pepito who was with him all throughout, but after the war, his grave was never found.</div>
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He was killed by the Japanese because he stood his ground for his country. He had full authority over what's left of the Philippines and on his capture, it was like catching the president himself. Abad Santos choose honor and death over a life of shame. He even saw dying for the country as an opportunity. Such was his patriotism, such was his heroism during those times of war. Just like our national hero, Jose Rizal, he was calm upon receiving the news until the end.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4319528052816217597.post-59621965147894913702013-01-07T00:47:00.003+08:002013-01-07T01:09:55.094+08:00A Taste of Filipino Cigarettes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yylk934CKbs/UOmgsslHTKI/AAAAAAAACTE/_4BCNa-csTo/s1600/thepinoywarrior+filipino+cigarettes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yylk934CKbs/UOmgsslHTKI/AAAAAAAACTE/_4BCNa-csTo/s320/thepinoywarrior+filipino+cigarettes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally, after quite a long wait, more than a year after posting <a href="http://www.thepinoywarrior.com/2011/09/chasing-filipino-cigarettes.html">Chasing Filipino Cigarettes</a>, I've managed to get hold of Filipino Cigarettes. It took a trip to the central market of Gapan, Nueva Ecija to get these because they're not available here in Metro Manila. A previous discussion with the makers of these cigarettes didn't really help much, to which they suggested to go to Tarlac to buy their products.</div>
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Each pack contains 30 <i>cigarillos</i>, no filters unlike the more popular American Blended ones. Their packaging, wrapped in printed paper, much like the way it was done before during the late Spanish times. Might not be the best way to preserve flavor in the sticks, but who can complain since they cost very, very cheap. One of the brands sells for around 12 pesos.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>They were made to resemble rolled tobacco. The color of the wrapper is brown but without the elegance of real tobacco leaf. Its thickness is just like a regular cigarette, but its length is longer, making it a challenge to the ones used to king sized brands. Some may still remember these cigarettes being smoked by <i>lolas</i> in the province with the burning end inside their mouths. Do you know why they smoke that way?<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4w-WmAtmRaU/UOmpj7QoNRI/AAAAAAAACTo/YS0YkbvJ2dA/s1600/thepinoywarrior+filipino+cigarettes+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4w-WmAtmRaU/UOmpj7QoNRI/AAAAAAAACTo/YS0YkbvJ2dA/s320/thepinoywarrior+filipino+cigarettes+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Apparently, most of these <i>cigarillos</i> have a sweet kick during the drag. The special wrapper of each stick may contain the flavoring and is released when lit. Its not for the people used to the mild and smooth taste of American blends. Since it is without any filters, the smoker gets the full blow of the <i>cigarillo's</i> flavor, plus everything that goes with it.</div>
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There wasn't any taste testing that happened, only an attempt to experience how does Filipino Cigarettes in the past taste like. One thing is for sure, it has an intense impact with every drag, much more stronger than filtered cigarettes. The sweetness sometimes becomes a distraction, but somehow making the smoking experience a bit more curious and enjoyable. Just like the cigars, it leaves that familiar sensation in the throat, only a hundred times fainter.</div>
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A review of their flavors would be great, but someone who really knows about tobacco, smoking and its flavors has to help in doing it. Any help from anyone will be appreciated.</div>
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