Showing posts with label Bicolanos. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bicolanos. Show all posts
Advent retreat in preparation for Christmas
The Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association (OLPDA) composed of mainly Filipinos of Bicol roots in the Northeast is conducting an advent retreat this Satuday, November 28, 2009 at 10 AM to 3 PM in Our Lady of Victories School basement located at corner Ege Street and Westside Avenue in Jersey City, New Jersey.
In preparation for the coming yuletide celebration, the religious recollection will tackle among others the relevance of the saving birth of Jesus Christ in the modern world. Topics include “Priesthood” and “The Devotion of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.” FR. Joe D’ Amico, pastor of St. Aloysius Church in Jersey City will be the speaker.
OLPDA extends its invitation. Those who wish to attend may contact Genevieve del Rosario at 201-435-2840. (Photo Credit: Boy Cabaero) =0=
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UP Ibalon of yesteryears
"All photographs are there to remind us of what we forget. In this - as in other ways - they are the opposite of paintings. Paintings record what the painter remembers. Because each one of us forgets different things, a photo more than a painting may change its meaning according to who is looking at it." ---John Berger
Here are three faded photos that exactly tell what John Berger wants us to know. What meaning can you find in the young innocent faces which you barely recognize? Whether they are touched by the breeze in an exciting afternoon in a park or bathed with salty water of the sea or seen with other faces in a comfy chair of unity and togetherness. Ah! somewhere in our recollections, there are spritely days of UP Ibalon that excite the senses and edify the soul. =0=
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Sarong Banggi
One can argue that the popular song Sarong Banggi carries meaning in each line that only a Bicolano can feel from his heart. It is also true with our Philippine flag. The brilliant colors of red, white, and blue---the golden sun and stars evoke meanings that only we Filipinos will ever know.
The seal above adopted by members of Sarong Banggi (SB,) the organization which started in UP Los Banos brings special significance to many Bicolanos as well. If SB members tell us that unity is important: “Sa pagkasararo, may kusog” ----Isn’t this what we all want? In all our affiliations, we know this by heart. Oneness truly brings strength on which our survival, health, and happiness stand.
Art Villamor demystifies Sarong Banggi
Originally from Pasacao, Camarines Sur and Naga City, Art Villamor is the current president of the Sarong Banggi Organization International, Inc, (SBOI) a group of Bicolanos, college students, and professionals whose founding in 1964 has spawned a network of tightly-knit members in the Philippines and abroad.
In this friendly interview by Ibalonian Augusto F. Mesia, M.D., Art---the former Bayer executive shares his insights culled from his deeply held personal experiences with the popular organization in UP Los Banos when he studied there in 1973 to 1978. In his youth, Art is part of the spark of idealism of the state university---a member of a Bicolano group which has morphed into an integrated global brotherhood with a mission.
What is Sarong Banggi?
We often think of Sarong Banggi as the old folk ditty that we heartily sing with pride as Bicolanos. It is regarded as a love song, but historian Jose Barrameda, Jr of Naga City thinks it’s a liberation song composed by Potenciano Gregorio of Sto Domingo, Albay at the time of the Philippine revolution. In 1964, some students from Bicol in UP Los Banos (UPLB) added a new dimension to the song’s love message and its patriotic ramifications when they started to call their group Sarong Banggi (SB).
Since then what happened?
Before UPLB became an autonomous university in 1973, the colleges of agriculture, forestry and graduate school drew a steady number of students from Bicol. As a group, the guys didn’t have a face in the campus. Bicolanos were basically in the shadows---disorganized and disparate. They popped out during elections or came together in loose crowds--- sometimes in socials and poorly organized induction balls. There was that void at that time. Sarong Banggi filled that void for the Bikols.
What was the organization’s purpose?
SB developed its constitution and set its objectives based on the prevailing conditions of the time. Aside from common love of Bikolandia, unity and academic excellence, SB inculcated to its members the virtues of brotherhood, leadership, loyalty. and humility. Over the years, its constitution was revised in 1979, 1984, 2001 and 2007 to suit the organization to the call of time.
Who were the original members of SB?
Most of the Bicolano founders were members of campus fraternities--- 3 Upsilonians, 3 Alpha Sigmans and the rest were “barbarians”---the UP term for those who have no organizational affiliation. Two Upsilonians, Mon Santiago and Romy Claveria, came from Ateneo de Naga HS’64.
The first faculty adviser was Uly Lustria, a Beta Sigman from Legazpi City. UP Diliman College of Law faculty member Loida Nicolas (Lewis) was the young guest speaker of SB's first anniversary and induction ball held in 1965.
It was told that before 1973, the UPCA (the predecessor of UPLB,) selections of Bikolanos served as swing votes for most Bikol region candidates--- the likes of Loida Nicolas-Lewis and Liwayway Vinzon-Chato grabbed slots in the UP student body. SB was at the forefront to solidify that elusive Bikol votes.
In 1970, under Bob Geronimo's leadership, also from AdenHS'64, dual memberships to SB and other organization were not allowed. Kung SB ka, SB ka lang. Under threat of expulsion, other linkages were banned unless a member joined an academic group. (Photo Credit: ArtV)
What is the association known for?
Early on, SB was active in campus politics and theater arts. Despite the students’ focus on their studies, our members were restless and dissent against Marcos dictatorship at that time was strong.
The organization recognized the stage could not only portray the current situation of the time but it also could serve as an effective tool of showing true Filipino culture. There were memorable theatre productions which SB produced and co-produced in UPLB and Bikol until the late '80s which I could remember.
In 1969, Sarong Banggi toured with the Philippine College of Commerce (PCC, now PUP). "Samahang Kamanyang," a progressive theater group from PCC came to the Bicol Region---hanggang sa Naga at Legazpi napadpad sila para mamulat ang mga Bikolanong estudyante sa mga nangyayari sa bansa noon.
In 1975 and 1976, SB also co-produced with the UPLB Student Council "Iskolar ng Bayan - Alay sa mga Bagong Salta." A tribute for UPLB new freshmen.
In 1977, with Kappa Phi Sigma and Tulisanes worked together for "ISKHO, ISKHA ATBP," again a tribute para sa mga bagong salta.
In late 1977, SB produced "SIGAW NG BAYAN" a full act play by Bonifacio Ilagan. It portayed the struggle of the Filipino people and the Katipunan during the oppressive Spanish regime.
In 1978, SB produced "JOE HILL," a play portraying the life and struggle of an American labor union during the early years of the 20th century.
In 1982, SB staged "FOLKSONG PARA SAINDO" in Naga City. A concert featuring nationalist musicians from Manila and Laguna.
In 1984, SB co-produced with Tulisanes and Haring Ibon "REKONSENTRADO"
In 1987, SB co-produced with UPSCA, Chi Epsilon, Epsilon Chi,Teatro Umalahokan, Tulisanes, Sigma Rho, Beta Kappa, and Kappa Phi Sigma the play "PIPOY"
In late 1987, SB produced "MAPAIT SA BAO," a full length play depicting the life a typical Filipino coconut farmer and his family.
SB was also active in student politics, a number of its members became Chairpersons and councilors of UPLB Student Council during the martial law years and during the mid to late '90s. SB was also in the forefront in the revival of the UPLB student publication (UPLB Perspective) during the martial law years. SB's Gabby Bordado (AdeNHS'71 and Naga City vice mayor) was one of the editors of UPLB Perspective in 1974.
How did SB become the organization that is now?
During the first quarter storm, SB was one of the visible associations aligned with the radical left at UPLB. A number of its members even went beyond campus politics and joined the people movement in the countryside.
In 1971, its first chapter was established in Bicol as Naga Sarong Banggi with early members from ADNU and UNC and former SB members from UPLB who went back to Naga before the declaration of 1081.
The years after the declaration of martial law, SB grew larger in Metro Manila mainly in GAUF now Araneta-La Salle University and Adamson University. It also established student chapters in Bicol University (BU)--- Legazpi, Guinobatan, and Tabaco campuses. Chapters were organized in Camarines Sur State Agricultural College (CSSAC), Mabini, and La Consolacion Colleges in Daet, Camarines Norte and Camarines Norte State College (CNSC) of Daet and Labo.
Memberships were opened in University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) and University of St. Anthony (USANT) in Naga and Iriga respectively. Lately, the org recruited new members from BU, Polangui, and Partido State University in Goa, Camarines Sur.
Does SB have a chapter in UP Diliman?
In the early 2000, SB tried to put up membership there. But it was not sustained by the regular chapters of UPLB and Adamson U which comprise the bulk of SB Kamaynilaan.
According to some SB elders/alumni, there was an attempt to merge UP Sarong Banggi and UP Ibalon during the early '70s (before 1081) but the negotiation failed basically on the issue on which name will survive after the merger.
Can you describe the membership of SB now?
We have about 3,000 members---500 of them are from UPLB and the rest are from other chapters. About four-fifths of the members are in the Philippines and the rest are based abroad mainly in America.
How do the SB chapters function?
Each campus regular chapter has some degree of autonomy in terms of its campus activities which are based on different policies on student organization by the different colleges and universities but in terms of objectives, recruitment and acceptance rites, elections, organizational discipline etc... all regular and alumni or elders chapters are governed by policies and guidelines formulated by the SBOI Board of Trustees (2007 SB constitution).
Our alumni chapters are created per geographical distribution of the alumni members from different regular or student chapters. We have SB Kamaynilaan Council of Elders chapter, SB International Chapter (mainly US & Canada based elders or alumni), Naga City SB council of elders among others.
SBOI under the 2007 constitution has an elected the Board of Trustees (BOT) as the policy making body of the organization. It has 3 independent commissions (election, audit and discipline) appointed by the BOT. They formulate and apply regulations according to its nature or scope of work.
Two types of chapters work hand in hand----the student or regular chapters in campus and the elder or alumni chapters outside school. The organization’s non-campus projects are identified, funded, and implemented by the elder or alumni chapters with the help of the nearest regular or student chapters.
Was SB a positive influence your life?
Definitely! Aside from my Ateneo and UP education, SB is the third classroom that honed my personality---a family man not only for oneself, but for others as well. The experience helped me manage home and work. The group helped my decision-making. Keeping the core values of SB made me what I am now--- a responsible, humble and fair person to everyone.
The state university influenced me a lot in running the group. A national and international organization, SB must be relevant to society. It must be critical and analytical to the events of the time just the way we learned in school. Di ba tinuru’an tayong di lang mano’od? Dapat maki-alam din tayo sa nangyayari sa ating lipunan.
What are your plans for SB?
I want to harness the pool of expertise and resources of the organization. Majority of SB members have assumed key positions in their respective professions. I wish I could tap them to help in education. We can work on livelihood projects for the poor. We can maximize our role in environmentalism and cultural preservation particularly in Bicol.
Why are there so many organizations in Bicol and elsewhere?
I think it is a normal sociological phenomenon. Everybody needs a company and it is natural for someone to look for his "kalahi" for full expression of oneself. He comes to know the norms and taboos of his kababayan. Not only does he eat the same food, he acquires similar values and experiences. Mas comfortable siya na kasama ang kababayan brods or sisses di ba?
What is an interesting SB story you want to share?
Gulpihon. Thirty six (36) years of affiliation with SB since my freshman year at UPLB, I picked up some of the org’s virtues. We practice self-criticism, brotherhood, loyalty, leadership and humility--- nagamit ko sa personal na buhay ko---- sa pamilya sagkod trabaho.
Por ejemplo, an maging magpakumbaba, an pag-ako ning kasalan o pagkukulang ay nanudan ko sa grupo. An pagiging ama kan pamilya, maging pamayo nin trabaho asin ibang orgs.---mga mahalagang lecciones na dae ko nano’odan sa la’og kan klase, pero natuparan ko sa SB.
Si enot na girl friend ko sa UPLB was a sis, a former up gov't scholar. So pati pag-ilusyon nanudan ko sa la'og kan org nagpu’on. Kaya pag ilusyon ko sa luwas kan SB (of course mayo na kami kan sis ko ta siya nagtransfer sa sarong university sa Manila,) dae na ako murtugo kundi astig na.
How do you balance SB with your friends and family?
Now that I am the national president of SB Organization International, Inc. (our SEC registered name,) 15% of my time is devoted to it, 15% with other friends including my golf schedule, and 70% pa rin ang pamilya. Igua na akong mga maku-apo that we can enjoy. In retirement, I find being active in the group very satisfying.
Anything new with the group?
The major change with SB since it started was its SEC registration in 2004 as non-government organization or corporation. This was to make the international organization more active outside the campus. Education, the environment, and culture preservation had been the group’s priorities.
Our focus is to increase our presence to the colleges and universities so we can carry on the SB mission. How to maintain the quality of our current membership is a concern. We want to have quality SB alumni so we can implement more projects.
How do the members deal with politics?
SB is not partisan---- kaya okay lang na may members kami na mataas ang katungkulan---in the military, police, leftist movement, legal and medical professions, engineering, forestry , agriculture, urban planning, finance etc... kun baga, maski pa ano ang pagtubod, pag-abot sa la'og nin grupo magturugang pa man guiraray.
We have a vice governor, a city vice mayor, a provincial board member and a number of municipal councilors who need our support, but we do it on individual basis.
What is the biggest challenge facing SB today?
We need to recruit quality members among the students and encourage more involvement from our alumni members. We work to reach out to other individuals and organizations in the community---- to spread the unity, goodwill, and peace we committed ourselves as Filipinos from Bicol. =0=
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OLPDA readies for the Traslacion on September 11 in New Jersey
After careful preparations made by the officers, coordinators and friends of the Our Lady of Penafrancia (OLPDA,) the association now looks forward to the September 11, 2009 Traslacion which will be held in Our Lady of Victories Church (OLVC) at 2217 JF Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, New Jersey.
Schedule of Activities:
Date-----------------------Place---Novena Mass-Sponsors-----------------------Time
September 11, 2009----OLVC----Rosary & Traslacion------------------------5:45 PM
September 12, 2009----OLVC----Catanduanes--------------------------------7:00 PM
September 13, 2009----OLVC----Sorsogon-------------------------------------7:00 PM
September 14, 2009----OLVC----Camarines II (Rinconada-Partido)--------5:30 P
September 15, 2009----OLVC----Masbate----------------------------------------7:00 PM
September 16, 2009----OLVC----Albay--------------------------------------------7:00 PM
September 17, 2009----OLVC----Camarines Sur I (Railroad, River, Central--7:00 PM
September 18, 2009----OLVC----Ateneo de Naga Alumni Association--------7:00 PM
According to Amado (Boy) Cabaero, OLPDA's overall chairman, the Friday event on September 11 will be capped with the recitation of rosary and a procession honoring Ina, the Mother of Jesus. It also jumpstarts the sacred evening novena in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia and the Divine Face (Divino Rostro) to be offered by Bicolanos worldwide on the eve of 300 years of devotion.
The fiesta this year will have the solemn concelebrated mass, fluvial parade, and cultural program which will be on September 19, 2009 at the Liberty State Park, CRRNJ Terminal Bldg., 1 Zapp Drive, New Jersey. Everyone is cordially invited.
In Bicol, the translacion is a traditional procession which marks the transfer of the image of Nuestra Senora de Penafrancia from her village shrine in Balatas, to the historic Naga City Metropolitan Cathedral where a nine-day novena is slated by pilgrims and devotees.
The prayers and religious activities will culminate with the fluvial procession in Naga River on Saturday, September 19, 2009. The procession will be followed with a day of thanks on Sunday, ending the grand faith-based celebration. =0=
OLPDA's Night of Western Music
Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotess Assoiation (OLPDA) invites you to a Night of Dancing Western Music at Our Lady of Victories School Auditorium in Ege Avenue, off West Side Avenue in New Jersey City. The event whose proceeds will partly defray the expenses of the association in Ina's honor starts at 5PM and ends at 10 PM on Sunday, August 30, 2009.
The lovely affair is in preparation to the September Penafrancia fiesta being readied by OLPDA for the Northeast Bicolanos on September 11 to 19, 2009. Interested friends and supporters are cordially invited to come in their Western casual attire. Bicol food will be served.(Photo Credit: eppic123) =0=
Contact Persons: Genevieve del Rosario (201) 435-2840
Cora Velasco (201) 424-8572
Lita Pena (201) 432-2144
Carmen Oliver (201) 469-6180
Lily Cantuba (551) 358-4008
DJ Butchoy (551) 689-8723
Amado (Boy) Cabaero---Overall Chairman
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BNAA Convention capped with a gala dinner on July 18, 2009 in New Jersey
After a hectic day of deliberations by the Bicol National Association of America (BNAA) in a convention last Saturday, a solemn mass of thanksgiving, unity, and hope was celebrated by Msgr. Jeremias Rebanal and Fr. Joe Saltarin, spiritual advisers of the group of Bicolanos who bonded together to share time, talent, and treasure for the community.
“Without a doubt, the generosity and participation of BNAA members during our fundraising efforts enable us to continue to succeed in implementing the BNAA service projects,” said Rudy Nasol, BNAA president (2007-2009) His words may well summarize the mission of the organization which gathered in New Jersey and New York for its 29th annual convention in July 17-19, 2009.
Headed by community leaders Angelita Pena and Erlinda Arellano who are the current nationwide BNAA and Northeast Chapter presidents respectively, the enthusiastic group of goal-directed Bicolanos and affiliates who work for the poor and underprivileged pulled a formal fun-filled evening dinner-dance at the Sheraton, Hotel in Newark, New Jersey to cap this year’s convention. The ball chair was Baby B. Baquiran.
With the support of the association, Lita and Linda brought together visitors and guests, mostly from various BNAA chapters from all over America.
Working in concert with the BNAA officers and members and the Our Lady of Penafrancia Association (OLPDA,) a fresh brand of “getting-to-know-you” and renewal of camaraderie marked the excitement of the evening.
An estimated 270 guests arrived to add a dazzling vitality to the memorable event. Formally dressed for the affair, they were met by welcoming hosts like Ben and Thelma Silerio, Boy and Dina Cabaero, Rolando and Gidget Revilleza, Chi and Tong Pilar, Peng Pena, Salvador Deauna, Ed Arellano, Narcisa Vasquez, Efren Zagada, Adela Quisumbing, Nilda Largoza, and Carmen Oliver.
Propped by ardent support from Northeast residents like Lily Villegas, Genevieve del Rosario, Ben Vasquez, Josie Anciano-Mendoza, Myrla Rueda, Mila Requejo, and Dr. Rosendito Largoza, the team gathered its full force which energized the ball to its rousing success.
Former BNAA president Roger Odiamar, Zayda Baron, and Fr. Garcia were as upbeat as the Chicago delegation that came with them. Adding spark to the occasion, Dr. Lilian Obrero-Gines expressed her liking for projects and wholesome fun when BNAA convenes in Jacksonville, Florida sometime in 2011.
Steve David, the president of the Filipino American Caucus for Empowerment and Alice de Leon looked forward to see Bicolanos visit Houston, Texas next year. They were part of the merry crowd which combined ballroom dancing with the plain joy of being together. A special guest performance by Craig and Samantha A. Campos, young dancing champions, wowed those who were present.
From California was a delegation which included Bicolano leader Rudy Nasol and his notable surgeon-friend Dr. Antonio Abiog, the pillar of BNAA's outreach medical missions in the Philippines. Travelling all the way to be with other guests, from Michigan were Delia Hidalgo-Rayos and Aida and Gil Manly. Ely Mabeza, a former Naga City resident, came to meet with his relatives and friends.
Ludy Baldoza-Cabanas, an amiable BNAA past president, arrived from Washington State. And from Virginia was Milette Maleniza who was accompanied by devoted hubby Joey Salonga.
Cindy and Joe Dacanay, Saulo Gaspe, Art Artuz, Joceline Losa-Masauding, Nancy Samson, Fred Ramin, and Delia Evangelista of South Carolina Bicol Association were dreamful to meet their new pals in future meetings.
There was a sizeable number of Bicolanos from out of town who attended the ball--- In fact, too many to be mentioned by name. For reasons, not completely known, there were also those who weren’t present---- and surely they were sorely missed.
At the conclusion when the crack of dawn rushed in to give way for the next day's sunrise, some attendees proceeded quietly to the “hospitality room” in the 12th floor of the venue building. In hushed voices, they were up for an extended fellowship and fun. The small crowd with Lita Pena, Msgr. Rebanal and Fr. Saltarin stayed longer to share a familiar Bicol soul-food----a native fare of hot steamy “arroz caldo” that made the delegates remember the Bikol of home. (Photo Credit: AFM) =0=
RELATED BLOG: Bikol National Association of America Convention 2009 Posted by andygimpaya at 9/26/2008
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OLPDA's induction of officers and members
Boy Cabaero, the chairman of the Our Lady of Penafranica, Inc. of New Jersey, New York and Connecticut (OLPDA) announces the association's induction of members and officers at the Our Lady of Victories Church in New Jersey.
To be held on Saturday, June 27, 2009, the event will start with a solemn mass followed by a family picnic at the Liberty State Park, NJ. Those interested to attend may contact Boy at 201-566-8424. (Photo Credit: Reinier_Lim) =0=
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235,887 Sorsogon residents displaced by Typhoon Dante
Sorsogon in Bicol was hit by the recent Typhoon Dante which left 26 people dead, 20 of them residents of Sorsogon City. The vicious storm caused the displacement of 43,215 families numbering about 235,887 people living in 220 villlages.
According the National Disaster Coordinating council (NDCC,) 174 evacuation centers were set up. Heavy rain, flood and strong wind destroyed homes and agricultural crops amounting to about P200 million. Sorsogon City, located in the southern part of Luzon, declared a state of calamity. Landslides resulted to the deaths of about a dozen people with others still missing. (Photo Credit: Kevulike)=0=
RELATED BLOG: "Tropical depression ”Dante” brings death and destruction to Bicol Posted by mesiamd at 5/03/2009"
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Bicol Vignette: Bambi Ricafrente’s Antero
“Though a non-Chinese, Antero grew up in China. He was only about five when he migrated to that country with his stepfather, a Chinese merchant, who brought him along in place of his mother, who had refused to board the boat when it was time to leave. He had been orphaned by his Filipino father soon after his birth in January 1900 in Albay, a Philippine province famed as much for the majestic Mount Mayon as for its dishes done in generous amounts of coconut milk and the hottest of peppers – the siling labuyo.”---Antero (12/17/08, Ricafrente, B)Many lives go their usual pace until they reach terminus without being written; their unchronicled mundane beauty are regrettably lost forever. Yet, UP Ibalon’s Barbara M. Ricafrente (Bambi) does it differently. For posterity, she shares a crisp and fascinating tale of a guy whose "breath was sweet as the White Rabbit candies."
Read her. Posted in the blog, her scintillating story cuts across an extraordinary Bicol experience. The deservedly admired work effectively knocks open the door of our soul---as if we’re back home again for a holiday.---mesiamd(12/17/08)
RELATED BlOG: "Antero," posted by Barbara M. Ricafrente at 12/17/2008
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Bicol reforestation
At the rate of 2,000 hectares per year of reforestation being done in the Bicol Region, it will take about 50 years to plant trees on denuded areas. The time it takes doesn't include the on-going forest loss due to encroachment of humans.
According to Antonio Abaway, the techinical director of forestry management services, there are about 100,000 hectares of bald forest which need replanting of trees. For obvious reasons, this must be done in many areas of the region as soon as possible.
Though the Bicol River Basin Water Management Project (BRBWMP) is at the center of projects to restore foliage in the area, it’s desirable the effort involves the whole community. People need to be responsibly involved in managing their environment. As an example, the flash floods such as the one which destroyed 7 towns and killed some people in Camarines Norte on December 1, 2008 have been attributed to deforestation. (Photo Credits: Danesller; Dachalan)=0=
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30,000 families to be relocated in Bicol train rehab
It’s like Rip Van Winkle coming out from sleep. At last, the plan to repair the Philippine National Railways (PNR) from Laguna to Legazpi City is alive again. For the project to push, it will require the relocation of 30,000 families settled on the 15-meter clearance of the train's path.
The government plan is definite good news to Bicol, but it’s mind-bending why only now will repairs be undertaken. The train plying the southern end of Luzon is different from how it looked decades ago as it meandered in the craggy mountainsides of Quezon Province to the foot of Mount Isarog in Camarines Sur and Mayon in Albay. Huge numbers of people have already crowded the tracks, the 483-kilometer stretch from Manila.
Vital to travel in the Bicol region and the rest of the country, the PNR had been largely neglected. It practically operated in meager maintenance budget even if plans to extend the line, about 135 kilometers from Legazpi to Sorsogon had been on the works. Wooden planks and metal supports on the transportation line were continual victims of thieves who used them as firewood or sell them as scraps. For many years, almost nobody took action for their upkeep, to the disappointment of Bicolanos. The yearly torrential rains caused infrastructure damage. The government did little to prevent people from building houses along the railway tracks.
This early the concern for the legal rights of the squatters has been raised. Human rights groups are pushing for standard eviction amenities. The enormity of the problem causes some interested investors to back out of the project.
“Jun de la Torre, Community Organization of the Philippines (COPE) assistant regional coordinator said they have strengthened their social preparation efforts in favor of the railway settlers by collaborating with 10-federation strong Bicol Urban Poor Coordinating Council (BUPCC) headed by Lorna Chavez to ensure that the rights of these affected settlers would not be derailed when the PNR rehabilitation project starts in the near future." Bicol Mail, (12/12/08, Neola, J)The project is rocked with questionable political deals. P17 billion has been allotted to remove the illegal dwellers on the dangerous tracks. It constitutes a third of the total budget of P52.19---the cost of the much delayed project which was earlier scheduled in 2005 to 2011.
It is uncertain when the money will come or if it is adequate. With the postponements that go with government projects, at this time, the railway rehabilitation remains a dream for Bicolanos. (Photo Credits: Orangedroplet; Alcogoodwin; Alcogoodwin; orangedroplet)=0=
RELATED BLOG: "Life on the railway tracks & the fate of Isadora Duncan" Posted on Friday September 12th, 2008
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Matuninong na kinaban sa fiesta navidenya
"Tuninong na Kinaban"
Ang banggui tuninong,
Gabos mayong guirong
Maski an mga bitu'on, sa azul na langit
An malumoy na huyop-huyop may pagka-moot
Sa katuninongan kan kinaban.
Katuninongan nin panahon
Mensaje nin buhay
Biyaya kan Diyos para sa tao
Ang banggui tuninong,
Gabos mayong guirong
Maski an mga bitu'on sa azul na langit."
---F. de Leon, L. San Pedro
(Bicol trans. by mesiamd)
Maogma an aldaw na Deciembre 8, 2008 ta habang kita naghahalat kan pagkamundag ni Jesus, an fiesta kan Immaculada Concepcion satuyang pigce-celebrar. Mas maogma ining pag-guiromdom kan banal na Ina. Pigtutubudan tang pinag-mundag siya na mayong dungis nin kasalan arog kan aki niyang si Jesus.
Ining tukdong ini kan Simbahan Catoliko lalong may kahulugan. Sa satuyang mga buhay kadakul kitang nano’dan. Padagos an pag-sustento kan satuyang pagtubod maski palibot kita nin pag-duda sagkod mga problema.
Ngonian na fiesta navidenya, nahiling ta an karahayan kan kinaban. Pero apektado na kita kan mga problema digdi sa satuyang rogaring. Apektado na kita nin secularismo. Liberalismo. Relatibismo. Lataw na an pagka-commercial kan satuyang celebrasyones. Padagos an pagkawara kan satuyang mga tradisyones religiosos. Nalilipat na kita kan kaogmahan pag Christmas ang pig-oolayan.Totoong maribong na ang satuyang kinaban. Yaon diyan an iriwal---an pag-suporta sa aborsiyon, terorismo, an korupsiyon. Uya an pagprotesta laban sa pag-guibo nin Belen. An pagsayuma sa sampulong tugon. Pag-negar kan pag-karol, an paghabo sa Christmas tree sa publiko--- Gabos ini, maski kaogmahan kan satuyang mga ka-aki'an, jovenes, sagkod gurang.
Da'e ta manigaran si birheng Maria sagkod si Jesus---sinda ang nakatabang sa pagbilog kan satuyang mga ugali. An satong pagka-tao. An pag-tubod ta komo Christiano nag-taong dalan sa pag-buhay-buhay. Nakatabang sa pag-atubang kan mga sentir, kinakatakutan, pig-dudulagan.
Auotpa man lugod na ngonian na mga aldaw, maparani guiraray kita sa pagkamo'ot ni Jesu Kristo, Maria, sagkod ang satong Kagurangnan. Feliz Navidad habang kita naghahalat kan pag-abot kan satuyang paratubos! (Photo Credits: SymonmReynolds; Keith Maguire; Pianoforte)=0=
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One Stormy Night In August 1995:A UP Ibalon Saga
by Mighty Baylon
One very stormy night (there was a typhoon signal) in late August 1995, I was a little annoyed by an insistent phone call. I was busy packing my things for my 12 o'clock midnight SuperFerry trip back home to Mindanao and Cainta was a long way from the North Harbor. I worried that I would find it difficult to get a taxi ride with flash floods being broadcast. That was the reason I wanted to leave early.
The caller was a dear friend. To my surprise he was asking me to postpone my trip and attend a "special meeting" of the resident members. I wondered with irritation what very important topic needs to be discussed in the dead of a stormy night that warrants my presence in the resident organization. And to think I don't normally show myself for their meetings or drop by in their tambayan.
"Please. The organization needs you". That began to change my mind. As the founder I normally cannot turn down appeals by my organization.
There was no time to call SuperFerry. Usually their phones are swamped by calls when a ship is about to depart. I thought, "Okey, I will just take the 'No-show' charge".
I didn't know it then that I was about to embark on a journey of intrigue and struggle.
By the time I showed myself up in the old Drugstore in Balara my pants were soaked up to the knees even though I was using an umbrella and a jacket. I asked my friend, "What's up?". No, he won't give me any details. I began to suspect that it was not a normal meeting. All I heard was "Board of Directors Plus".
We took a taxi till we came to a small apartment in Balara. There were about 20 people present and I knew the Ibalon BOD consists of only 12 officers. Scanning them I knew I was among the members of the UG group in Ibalon.
The place was jampacked and the meeting began as soon as I arrived. Somebody, not a board member, began, "Aram man kan gabos na an Ibalon, poon sa poon, ay sarong political organization" (Everybody knows that Ibalon, right from the very start, is a political organization). I can scarcely believe my ears. Here it is, the very concept we rejected when we founded the organization. We knew even then that Ibalon cannot be a political or even a semi-political organization if it wants to be a home of the Bicolanos in UP Diliman.
"Dahil political organization man kita dapat magbale kita sa SAMASA" (Since we are a political organization we must join SAMASA). But he was referring to a particular faction of the SAMASA. And most of the BOD members don't want to join either SAMASA factions so that Ibalon won't be involved in the messy split of the national-democratic movement going on in the campus.
It now dawned on me why they invited me to this meeting. As the organization's founder, they were expecting my crucial "imprimatur" to a scheme. They wanted to override all opposition with that (false) mantra of "pol-org".
I was the first one asked for a reaction. "Where did you get the idea that Ibalon is a political organization?", I asked them. "We rejected that at the very start and we defined Ibalon to be a varsitarian".
I continued, "If anyone tried to establish a pol-org in 1974, when 'white terror' reigned in the campus and recognition of some organizations has just began, they would certainly ended up in Camp Crame. In fact, ND mass organizations like KM were being converted then into legal organizations". I added, "Until 1974, residents of dormitories are still being dragged out by military men in the middle of the night and some students are arrested after stepping out of classrooms".
Looking at their surprised but ashen faces I realized that my comment was the least they expected me to make. I was not out to defeat a scheme I was not privy to; I was only trying to stand for the truth and for the correct version of Ibalon history.
The meeting ended right there and only some lame talk remained. My optimistic side was thinking, "I hope that will be the end of it" but my pessimistic side was also saying, "This is just the beginning. Their political minders won't take it sitting down".
I reported the incident to the UP Ibalon Alumni Association Board of Directors, which I headed.
When I took a different ship a few days later, I cannot erase from my mind that queer episode. With chill in my spine I cannot shake the feeling I am being sucked in an intrigue that I feel will impact UP Ibalon and my life.
One very stormy night (there was a typhoon signal) in late August 1995, I was a little annoyed by an insistent phone call. I was busy packing my things for my 12 o'clock midnight SuperFerry trip back home to Mindanao and Cainta was a long way from the North Harbor. I worried that I would find it difficult to get a taxi ride with flash floods being broadcast. That was the reason I wanted to leave early.
The caller was a dear friend. To my surprise he was asking me to postpone my trip and attend a "special meeting" of the resident members. I wondered with irritation what very important topic needs to be discussed in the dead of a stormy night that warrants my presence in the resident organization. And to think I don't normally show myself for their meetings or drop by in their tambayan.
"Please. The organization needs you". That began to change my mind. As the founder I normally cannot turn down appeals by my organization.
There was no time to call SuperFerry. Usually their phones are swamped by calls when a ship is about to depart. I thought, "Okey, I will just take the 'No-show' charge".
I didn't know it then that I was about to embark on a journey of intrigue and struggle.
By the time I showed myself up in the old Drugstore in Balara my pants were soaked up to the knees even though I was using an umbrella and a jacket. I asked my friend, "What's up?". No, he won't give me any details. I began to suspect that it was not a normal meeting. All I heard was "Board of Directors Plus".
We took a taxi till we came to a small apartment in Balara. There were about 20 people present and I knew the Ibalon BOD consists of only 12 officers. Scanning them I knew I was among the members of the UG group in Ibalon.
The place was jampacked and the meeting began as soon as I arrived. Somebody, not a board member, began, "Aram man kan gabos na an Ibalon, poon sa poon, ay sarong political organization" (Everybody knows that Ibalon, right from the very start, is a political organization). I can scarcely believe my ears. Here it is, the very concept we rejected when we founded the organization. We knew even then that Ibalon cannot be a political or even a semi-political organization if it wants to be a home of the Bicolanos in UP Diliman.
"Dahil political organization man kita dapat magbale kita sa SAMASA" (Since we are a political organization we must join SAMASA). But he was referring to a particular faction of the SAMASA. And most of the BOD members don't want to join either SAMASA factions so that Ibalon won't be involved in the messy split of the national-democratic movement going on in the campus.
It now dawned on me why they invited me to this meeting. As the organization's founder, they were expecting my crucial "imprimatur" to a scheme. They wanted to override all opposition with that (false) mantra of "pol-org".
I was the first one asked for a reaction. "Where did you get the idea that Ibalon is a political organization?", I asked them. "We rejected that at the very start and we defined Ibalon to be a varsitarian".
I continued, "If anyone tried to establish a pol-org in 1974, when 'white terror' reigned in the campus and recognition of some organizations has just began, they would certainly ended up in Camp Crame. In fact, ND mass organizations like KM were being converted then into legal organizations". I added, "Until 1974, residents of dormitories are still being dragged out by military men in the middle of the night and some students are arrested after stepping out of classrooms".
Looking at their surprised but ashen faces I realized that my comment was the least they expected me to make. I was not out to defeat a scheme I was not privy to; I was only trying to stand for the truth and for the correct version of Ibalon history.
The meeting ended right there and only some lame talk remained. My optimistic side was thinking, "I hope that will be the end of it" but my pessimistic side was also saying, "This is just the beginning. Their political minders won't take it sitting down".
I reported the incident to the UP Ibalon Alumni Association Board of Directors, which I headed.
When I took a different ship a few days later, I cannot erase from my mind that queer episode. With chill in my spine I cannot shake the feeling I am being sucked in an intrigue that I feel will impact UP Ibalon and my life.
OLPDA sets Christmas party on December 20, 2008
"Christmas is forever, not for just one day,
for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away
like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.
The good you do for others is good you do yourself..."
~Norman Wesley Brooks, "Let Every Day Be Christmas," 1976
OUR LADY OF PENAFRANCIA DEVOTEES ASSOCIATION, INC. (OLPDA)
of the TriState Area
(New Jersey, New York and Connecticut, USA)
Invites You to Join Us at Our
Annual Christmas Party
Our Lady of Victories School
Rev. Walter Swenson Hall
Ege Avenue,
Jersey City, New Jersey
Date: Saturday, December 20, 2008
Time: 6:30 – 11:00 p.m.
******POTLUCK********GAMES********RAFFLES********DANCING******
-----------MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!--------------
Santa is Coming to Give Gifts to Children!!!
Contact Persons: Carmen Oliver - 908-558-9794
Genevieve del Rosario - 201-435-2840
Boy Cabaero - 201-566-8424
==========================================================
for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away
like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.
The good you do for others is good you do yourself..."
~Norman Wesley Brooks, "Let Every Day Be Christmas," 1976
OUR LADY OF PENAFRANCIA DEVOTEES ASSOCIATION, INC. (OLPDA) of the TriState Area
(New Jersey, New York and Connecticut, USA)
Invites You to Join Us at Our
Annual Christmas Party
Our Lady of Victories School
Rev. Walter Swenson Hall
Ege Avenue,
Jersey City, New Jersey
Date: Saturday, December 20, 2008
Time: 6:30 – 11:00 p.m.
******POTLUCK********GAMES********RAFFLES********DANCING******
-----------MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!--------------
Santa is Coming to Give Gifts to Children!!!
Contact Persons: Carmen Oliver - 908-558-9794
Genevieve del Rosario - 201-435-2840
Boy Cabaero - 201-566-8424
==========================================================
Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association (OLPDA) election on October 25, 2008
Virginia C. Jacobson, chairwoman of the Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association announces the organization’s election of officers slated on October 25, 2008. She invites fellow devotees to attend and participate in the selection of leaders of the organization.
OUR LADY OF PENAFRANCIA DEVOTEES ASSOCIATION
DATE: OCTOBER 25, 2008 (Saturday)
TIME: 2:00 - 5:00 PM
PLACE: Our Lady of Victory Rectory (OLVR) BASEMENT
2217 J. F. KENNEDY BLVD.
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07304
Contact: Virginia C. Jacobson, OLPDA chairwoman
Tel. 732-742-4143
AGENDA
1. OPENING PRAYER
2. SECRETARY'S REPORT
3. TREASURER'S REPORT
4. ELECTION OF NEW OLPDA OFFICERS
5. OTHER BUSINESS
Please note: Food and Drinks will be provided, please do not bring any.
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