THE GLOBAL WILDERNESS
I am beginning to discover that what we call the Global Village is actually more of a wilderness. It is easy to get lost in a wilderness of modern though somehow confusing technologies. To understand what I mean, all you have to do is open a window in the internet and chances are soon you will find yourself being offered so many other sites, all seemingly interesting.
If you are a senior citizen who happened to learn how to use the computer by trial-and-error method with some help from not too interested ‘tutors’, you may soon find yourself nowhere out of this modern wilderness. Then you are suddenly surrounded by angry spams and other wild computer ‘animals’ all trying to swallow you or capture you into their waiting caves often so alluring and so inviting to disregard.
No wonder the youngsters would exchange even their food allowances or school fees for the thrilling experiences offered by this modern jungle. But even the supposedly experts on this matters do not always agree.
”According to McLuhan, modern communication technologies such as radio and television globalize communication by allowing users from all levels of society around the world to easily connect with each other and exchange ideas instantaneously. On the Internet, physical distance is even less of a hindrance to the real-time communicative activities of people, and therefore social spheres are greatly expanded by the openness of the web and the ease at which people can search for online communities and interact with others that share the same interests and concerns. Therefore, this technology fosters the idea of a conglomerate yet unified global community. Due to the enhanced speed of communication online and the ability of people to read about, spread, and react to global news very rapidly, McLuhan says this forces us to become more involved with one another from countries around the world and be more aware of our global responsibilities. Similarly, web-connected computers enable people to link their web sites together. This new reality has implications for forming new sociological structures within the context of culture”.
“There is some disagreement in the consideration of the Internet as promoting the idea of a global village. Modern theorist Glnn Willmott says McLuhan's idea of the global village is a clichéd phrase that does not take into account the corruption of the Internet by government and corporate censorship and control over information on the web (news and entertainment information in particular). The notion of the digital divide also signifies why the idea of a global village is problematic; if not all people are connected to the Internet equally (notably minorities and the economically disadvantaged) and those that lack web access are excluded from global news and participating in online communities, then modern communication technology does not truly promote a global village as McLuhan described it for all people”.
As I said earlier it is easy to get lost in this global wilderness but one good news is: you will eventually find your way home if you are patient enough. I still recommend to other senior citizens to try to be up-to-date by learning how to use the computer. Believe me, it is not only interesting but truly rejuvenating.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Saturday, June 28, 2008
SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS IN ALFONSO
SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS IN ALFONSO
PRE-SPANISH SOCIETY
Conservatism, tradition, and poor transport facilities during the pre-Spanish period made Filipinos then somewhat less the social beings that they are today. The family was the main and the most stable social unit, the anchor to which the “baranggay” was tied.
Association between the two genders was taboo until such time as the parents deemed it “proper” to marry off their children.
POST REVOLUTION SOCIETY
It is a fact…sad for females, happy for males…that since the beginning of history, there have been more girls than boys, more women than men. There is reason to believe that 8 out of 10 born babies are girls. During the Spanish times, the ratio was one boy to five girls.
Today, only heaven knows what the ratio is. At any rate, Alfonso girls of Spanish times, having been introduced to Western thought and ways managed to shed off a good amount of inhibition, organized themselves, and turned more sociable. Under the leadership of Dolores Angeles and Concepcion Rosanes, they held dancing parties quite regularly. Their dancing hall was the old house of Capitan Inso.
Since Alfonso is the kind of town where everyone is almost related to everyone else, gentlemen callers had to come from neighboring towns. Courtship ended up in marriage – for most. For the less lucky, there was spinsterhood and old bachelorhood to fall back on.
Social instinct got the better of Alfonso folks, despite the dictates of conventions not to be too sociable. “Sa Liwanag ng Buwan”, as the name implies, was agroup of moon-lovers whose cycle of social activities depended on the cycle of lunar changes. Relatives and friends joined in for rounds of dancing, jokes, story-telling and eat. Among the active members were Dorotea Malabanan, Bonifacia Aviñante and Josefa Vidallon. Perhas because people have a natural inclination for self-expression through rhythmic ways or perhaps because songs somehow help ease the burden of life, some people in Alfonso got together to form a singing group called “Alulong” (probably because at night, they used to go around the town bringing with them musical instruments and singing popular songs, so that people compared them to howling dogs).
This music-minded group gathered nightly over a certain delicacy alternately prepared by each one of them. After eating they went around serenading, sometimes up to early dawn. The members: Olimpio Ortega, Juan Aviñante, Pablo Gloriano, Anastacio Añonuevo and Ireneo Alano.
WORLD WAR II SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS:
During the Japanese Occupation, natives of Alfonso who resided elsewhere were all forced by circumstances to come home. There was nothing much to do because of the stresses of war. Several organizations evolved and there was a great competition both in athletic and social activities. This made the town very active, and each day was lived as if no war was going on.
“MARIBUZA” was organized long before the coming of the Japanese but it dried up and was only activated upon organization of other clubs.
Maribuza was coined from the first syllable of the four main streets of the Municipality: MA-bini, Ri-zal, BU-rgos, and ZA-mora.
BASTON: Composed mostly of elder boys and some girls, they busied themselves with dances and dramatics. The boys later joined the Guerilla movement against the Japanese, together with members of other clubs.
WAWAW: It was made up mainly of teenagers. Like Baston, Wawaw was also very active with many social activities.
SERENDAERS: As the name implies, members were the singers in town who indulged primarily in nightly “harana”. They also tried their dramatic talents through some “dramas” which they presented at the public market.
AMPHIBIANS; They did not walk on water or on land, but they made themselves popular through softball game which they usually played in the Plaza against other teams.
DAMAPOSA: It could have rightfully be called the Gambler’s Club, for the groups was composed of those who played DA-is, MA-jong, Po-ker, and SA-bong.
GOGARACAMATI: Composed of GO-do, GA-ra, RA-mon, CA-sto, MA-rcial, and TI-rso,
RAMBOGIE: Composed of very young boys who organized themselves to compete with the equally young other group who called themselves….
WINGS: The main opponent of Rambogie.
With so many organizations, there was never a dull moment in town.
There were singing contents, dramatic presentations, dance parties, athletic competitions. Petty fights ensued once in a while among the different groups.
But the spirit of unity and cooperation was maintained and visitors from other places were very much impressed. In fact, many of the evacuees decided to stay in Alfonso evern after the war, like the Ferreros family, De los Angeles family and many others.
POST WAR ORGANIZATIONS
After the Japanese War, attempts were made to revive the World War II organizations, but due to changes in trends of life, members of former organizations were scattered to different directions. The attempts were unsuccessful. On the other hand new clubs and civic organizations started sprouting from all sectors of society, all of which were instrumental in the social rehabilitation.
THE AMOR MIO CLUB: It was unintentionally organized in 1951 by a group of close friends who decided to give their group a name.
About a year later, it went on very glamoroualy with the affiliation of numerous civic-minded youths. It was active and somewhat prestigious. Later on, though, its prestige was a bit diminished in 1955 when other clubs were born.
THE VALIANT CLUB: Originally a basketball team named AVENGERS in 1953, it was later made a club by organizer Ading Dimaranan in order to increase the membership. It turned out to be the greatest competition of the Amor Mio Club who first predicted a life span of three months for the Valiant Club. The two clubs tried to outdo one another in all aspects. This was one competition that proved to be very beneficial to the town.
THE HIGHLANDERS: Aside from being good in Basketball, the Highlanders also made a name in social and intellectual activities.
THE EVERLASTING CLUB: One of the many organizations formed in the fifties, this one did not last long. Some members were absorbed by the Amor Mio Club while the others voluntarily joined the Valiant club after its president, was killed by another members during a fight that was triggered by an intrigue.
THE TWELVE BROTHERS CLUB: The Amor Mio Club and the Valiant Club were both busy with their own chores when suddenly the twelve Brothers erected a concrete Arch on the east portal of the Church Plaza that stood up to year 2008 when a new, wider, stronger and supposedly more modern arch was erected together with the fensing of the Church Plaza..
THE NO REKLAMO: Not to be outdone, some married men organized the No Reklamo Club. Led by D. Rodolfo Poblete, the group raised funds for the purchase of street lamps. Ironically, the No Reklamo Club died a natural death, not long after.
ONE PESO FAMILY: Upon disintegration of the No Reklamo Club, the One Peso Family was born. So called because its organization was initiated by one peso worth of “pansit”, it was just a kind of comraderie among close friends, composed mainly of professionals in town.
It did not last long when envious gossips started creating rumors about the members.
THE RAIN OR SHINE: It was composed of the happy-go-luck boys and girls in Alfonso. Its appeal was in its stress on being “actively carefree”. The group met and bonded together in all kinds of weather. Later, members voluntarily joined the Valiant Club.
THE INQUIRY MOVEMENT: Members called themselves QUERISTS. It was a socio-spiritual youth movement founded by the author who was at the same time the Moderator. Ther movement had no formal officers and was open to anyone. The primary intention was to bring the youth closer to Christ and closer to each other in all their activit ies.
Aside from frequent seminars on “any topic under the sun”, the Querists were ls o active in ahlet ics and other important community projects.
THE ZERO HOUR CLUB: It was then a softball team which was not active in social and other affairs.
THE KUYUG: Is an offashoot of the MARIBUZALI,m different from Maribuza duri8ng the Japanese time. The Kuyug was involved in a kind of cooperative that somehow kept the group intact.
THE STARIRAY: It was a happy-go-lucky group of married couples that st arted very actively. They got involved in almost all community activities and important projects but as they were quickly organized they dis int egrat ed just as fast. What remains of them was organized into a small sing ing group called the Marian.
IT DEPENDS:. Organized ahead of the Stariray during the lat e seven ties they also star ted with a bang and faded out like the fading sound of a r eal “bang”.
The Grasshoppers, The Kayakas, Von-Vivant, Blazer and the likes were all peer groups involved mostly in ordinary social gat herings just t o keep them together e specially during vacation time. They were all absorbed by t he GALLANT when it was organized instantly in protest against the 1986 Flores de Mayo election of officers.
THE ALTINIG: It was an all male choir composed of rep resent at ives f rom all walks of life. It made anmae in the whole province of Cavite during the November 1985 Marian Concert. To be able to sing Handle’s Allelujah and San Pedro’s Bayang Magiliw, female voice was needed so the Altinig invited some girls to j oin the group. They were called friends.
The”Friends” got so carried away by the Altinig , and was later accommodated thus converting the all-male choir into a mixed choir.
THE KULIGLIGS: Another sing ing g r oup that made a nme in the lat e seventies. They were responsible in soliciting funds they used in buying the electric organ for the Church. They were guided and supervised by Rev. Fr. Andres Coral.
ALFONSO WOMEN’S CLUB: Upon its organization it immediately ventured into a big project: The modern concrete stage. Like other organizations they disintegrate ed after the task.
THE HAPPY QUONDAMS: It was a Socio-cibic, Non-politicasl, Non-sectarian and Non-profit organizat ionm composed of self-sacrificing, civic-spirited, “youth” of alf onso, Cavite, forty years and above in age. They share their Time, Talent and Treasur e with the yout h of Alfonso in the fulfillment of the Youth’s dynamic activities.
Unfortunately all the good members were ac tively involved in many other activities that t hey could not give t heir full a ttention to the works of the group.
JAYCEES (ALF NSO Siklab): A relatively young organization composed of young men and women, mostly professionals who are actively involved in many civic projects. They are affiliated with the National Jaycees.
ALFONSO NIÑA: A civic organization of young women who separate ed from the Jaycees. They were all very active in the beginning but did not last long enough.
Let us all hope that today’s active organizations remain alive and that the Filipino disease of “Nigngas Cogon” will not burn them up. After all social contact still is…and will always be a…basic human need, and we , the alfonso folk, should encourage and help them for whatever they’re worth.
At any rate, both the Amor Mios and the Valiants surviVed the test of time and both have accomplished much despite their shortcomings. At present, both the Amor Mios and the Valiants are actively on the go.
Clubs and organizations shall always be around for as long as there are boys and girls seeking attention among their peers. For that matter there shall always be competitions, intrigues, misunderstandings, quarrels and occasional real fights but these are all part of growing up. For a young boy and a young girl to be well-rounded not only intellectually but also physically, emotionally, psychologically, morally, spiritually, politically and socially, he or she must be allowed and be given a chance to get involved for who was he who said: “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, all play and no work makes Jack a parasite, but enough work and enough play makes Jack a man”.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.d
PRE-SPANISH SOCIETY
Conservatism, tradition, and poor transport facilities during the pre-Spanish period made Filipinos then somewhat less the social beings that they are today. The family was the main and the most stable social unit, the anchor to which the “baranggay” was tied.
Association between the two genders was taboo until such time as the parents deemed it “proper” to marry off their children.
POST REVOLUTION SOCIETY
It is a fact…sad for females, happy for males…that since the beginning of history, there have been more girls than boys, more women than men. There is reason to believe that 8 out of 10 born babies are girls. During the Spanish times, the ratio was one boy to five girls.
Today, only heaven knows what the ratio is. At any rate, Alfonso girls of Spanish times, having been introduced to Western thought and ways managed to shed off a good amount of inhibition, organized themselves, and turned more sociable. Under the leadership of Dolores Angeles and Concepcion Rosanes, they held dancing parties quite regularly. Their dancing hall was the old house of Capitan Inso.
Since Alfonso is the kind of town where everyone is almost related to everyone else, gentlemen callers had to come from neighboring towns. Courtship ended up in marriage – for most. For the less lucky, there was spinsterhood and old bachelorhood to fall back on.
Social instinct got the better of Alfonso folks, despite the dictates of conventions not to be too sociable. “Sa Liwanag ng Buwan”, as the name implies, was agroup of moon-lovers whose cycle of social activities depended on the cycle of lunar changes. Relatives and friends joined in for rounds of dancing, jokes, story-telling and eat. Among the active members were Dorotea Malabanan, Bonifacia Aviñante and Josefa Vidallon. Perhas because people have a natural inclination for self-expression through rhythmic ways or perhaps because songs somehow help ease the burden of life, some people in Alfonso got together to form a singing group called “Alulong” (probably because at night, they used to go around the town bringing with them musical instruments and singing popular songs, so that people compared them to howling dogs).
This music-minded group gathered nightly over a certain delicacy alternately prepared by each one of them. After eating they went around serenading, sometimes up to early dawn. The members: Olimpio Ortega, Juan Aviñante, Pablo Gloriano, Anastacio Añonuevo and Ireneo Alano.
WORLD WAR II SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS:
During the Japanese Occupation, natives of Alfonso who resided elsewhere were all forced by circumstances to come home. There was nothing much to do because of the stresses of war. Several organizations evolved and there was a great competition both in athletic and social activities. This made the town very active, and each day was lived as if no war was going on.
“MARIBUZA” was organized long before the coming of the Japanese but it dried up and was only activated upon organization of other clubs.
Maribuza was coined from the first syllable of the four main streets of the Municipality: MA-bini, Ri-zal, BU-rgos, and ZA-mora.
BASTON: Composed mostly of elder boys and some girls, they busied themselves with dances and dramatics. The boys later joined the Guerilla movement against the Japanese, together with members of other clubs.
WAWAW: It was made up mainly of teenagers. Like Baston, Wawaw was also very active with many social activities.
SERENDAERS: As the name implies, members were the singers in town who indulged primarily in nightly “harana”. They also tried their dramatic talents through some “dramas” which they presented at the public market.
AMPHIBIANS; They did not walk on water or on land, but they made themselves popular through softball game which they usually played in the Plaza against other teams.
DAMAPOSA: It could have rightfully be called the Gambler’s Club, for the groups was composed of those who played DA-is, MA-jong, Po-ker, and SA-bong.
GOGARACAMATI: Composed of GO-do, GA-ra, RA-mon, CA-sto, MA-rcial, and TI-rso,
RAMBOGIE: Composed of very young boys who organized themselves to compete with the equally young other group who called themselves….
WINGS: The main opponent of Rambogie.
With so many organizations, there was never a dull moment in town.
There were singing contents, dramatic presentations, dance parties, athletic competitions. Petty fights ensued once in a while among the different groups.
But the spirit of unity and cooperation was maintained and visitors from other places were very much impressed. In fact, many of the evacuees decided to stay in Alfonso evern after the war, like the Ferreros family, De los Angeles family and many others.
POST WAR ORGANIZATIONS
After the Japanese War, attempts were made to revive the World War II organizations, but due to changes in trends of life, members of former organizations were scattered to different directions. The attempts were unsuccessful. On the other hand new clubs and civic organizations started sprouting from all sectors of society, all of which were instrumental in the social rehabilitation.
THE AMOR MIO CLUB: It was unintentionally organized in 1951 by a group of close friends who decided to give their group a name.
About a year later, it went on very glamoroualy with the affiliation of numerous civic-minded youths. It was active and somewhat prestigious. Later on, though, its prestige was a bit diminished in 1955 when other clubs were born.
THE VALIANT CLUB: Originally a basketball team named AVENGERS in 1953, it was later made a club by organizer Ading Dimaranan in order to increase the membership. It turned out to be the greatest competition of the Amor Mio Club who first predicted a life span of three months for the Valiant Club. The two clubs tried to outdo one another in all aspects. This was one competition that proved to be very beneficial to the town.
THE HIGHLANDERS: Aside from being good in Basketball, the Highlanders also made a name in social and intellectual activities.
THE EVERLASTING CLUB: One of the many organizations formed in the fifties, this one did not last long. Some members were absorbed by the Amor Mio Club while the others voluntarily joined the Valiant club after its president, was killed by another members during a fight that was triggered by an intrigue.
THE TWELVE BROTHERS CLUB: The Amor Mio Club and the Valiant Club were both busy with their own chores when suddenly the twelve Brothers erected a concrete Arch on the east portal of the Church Plaza that stood up to year 2008 when a new, wider, stronger and supposedly more modern arch was erected together with the fensing of the Church Plaza..
THE NO REKLAMO: Not to be outdone, some married men organized the No Reklamo Club. Led by D. Rodolfo Poblete, the group raised funds for the purchase of street lamps. Ironically, the No Reklamo Club died a natural death, not long after.
ONE PESO FAMILY: Upon disintegration of the No Reklamo Club, the One Peso Family was born. So called because its organization was initiated by one peso worth of “pansit”, it was just a kind of comraderie among close friends, composed mainly of professionals in town.
It did not last long when envious gossips started creating rumors about the members.
THE RAIN OR SHINE: It was composed of the happy-go-luck boys and girls in Alfonso. Its appeal was in its stress on being “actively carefree”. The group met and bonded together in all kinds of weather. Later, members voluntarily joined the Valiant Club.
THE INQUIRY MOVEMENT: Members called themselves QUERISTS. It was a socio-spiritual youth movement founded by the author who was at the same time the Moderator. Ther movement had no formal officers and was open to anyone. The primary intention was to bring the youth closer to Christ and closer to each other in all their activit ies.
Aside from frequent seminars on “any topic under the sun”, the Querists were ls o active in ahlet ics and other important community projects.
THE ZERO HOUR CLUB: It was then a softball team which was not active in social and other affairs.
THE KUYUG: Is an offashoot of the MARIBUZALI,m different from Maribuza duri8ng the Japanese time. The Kuyug was involved in a kind of cooperative that somehow kept the group intact.
THE STARIRAY: It was a happy-go-lucky group of married couples that st arted very actively. They got involved in almost all community activities and important projects but as they were quickly organized they dis int egrat ed just as fast. What remains of them was organized into a small sing ing group called the Marian.
IT DEPENDS:. Organized ahead of the Stariray during the lat e seven ties they also star ted with a bang and faded out like the fading sound of a r eal “bang”.
The Grasshoppers, The Kayakas, Von-Vivant, Blazer and the likes were all peer groups involved mostly in ordinary social gat herings just t o keep them together e specially during vacation time. They were all absorbed by t he GALLANT when it was organized instantly in protest against the 1986 Flores de Mayo election of officers.
THE ALTINIG: It was an all male choir composed of rep resent at ives f rom all walks of life. It made anmae in the whole province of Cavite during the November 1985 Marian Concert. To be able to sing Handle’s Allelujah and San Pedro’s Bayang Magiliw, female voice was needed so the Altinig invited some girls to j oin the group. They were called friends.
The”Friends” got so carried away by the Altinig , and was later accommodated thus converting the all-male choir into a mixed choir.
THE KULIGLIGS: Another sing ing g r oup that made a nme in the lat e seventies. They were responsible in soliciting funds they used in buying the electric organ for the Church. They were guided and supervised by Rev. Fr. Andres Coral.
ALFONSO WOMEN’S CLUB: Upon its organization it immediately ventured into a big project: The modern concrete stage. Like other organizations they disintegrate ed after the task.
THE HAPPY QUONDAMS: It was a Socio-cibic, Non-politicasl, Non-sectarian and Non-profit organizat ionm composed of self-sacrificing, civic-spirited, “youth” of alf onso, Cavite, forty years and above in age. They share their Time, Talent and Treasur e with the yout h of Alfonso in the fulfillment of the Youth’s dynamic activities.
Unfortunately all the good members were ac tively involved in many other activities that t hey could not give t heir full a ttention to the works of the group.
JAYCEES (ALF NSO Siklab): A relatively young organization composed of young men and women, mostly professionals who are actively involved in many civic projects. They are affiliated with the National Jaycees.
ALFONSO NIÑA: A civic organization of young women who separate ed from the Jaycees. They were all very active in the beginning but did not last long enough.
Let us all hope that today’s active organizations remain alive and that the Filipino disease of “Nigngas Cogon” will not burn them up. After all social contact still is…and will always be a…basic human need, and we , the alfonso folk, should encourage and help them for whatever they’re worth.
At any rate, both the Amor Mios and the Valiants surviVed the test of time and both have accomplished much despite their shortcomings. At present, both the Amor Mios and the Valiants are actively on the go.
Clubs and organizations shall always be around for as long as there are boys and girls seeking attention among their peers. For that matter there shall always be competitions, intrigues, misunderstandings, quarrels and occasional real fights but these are all part of growing up. For a young boy and a young girl to be well-rounded not only intellectually but also physically, emotionally, psychologically, morally, spiritually, politically and socially, he or she must be allowed and be given a chance to get involved for who was he who said: “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, all play and no work makes Jack a parasite, but enough work and enough play makes Jack a man”.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.d
Friday, June 27, 2008
THE "GREAT" MACHINE GUN
The "Great" Machine Gun
(The Role of Pampilo Rint in Acquiring it)
One big problem of the residents during the Japanese occupation was lack of firearms. Everybody was thinking of ways on how to acquire them to secure the community better. An important idea popped-up and was suggested by ANSELMO (MEMONG) JECIEL (Son of Ex-Governor Reymundo Jeciel) sometime in 1944 just before the actual battle at the Alfonso Poblacion.
He had an ROTC friend in San Andres who told him about a machine gun in their headquarters which they would be willing to exchange for a handier Tommy gun. Memong told his companions about it and practical strategy on how to get and bring home the machine gun was immediately planned.
PAMFILO RINT and CONRADO HERNAIS (Son of Mayor Hernais) were assigned to bring the Tommy gun to Manila, They placed the Tommy gun inside a native “BAY-ONG” then covered it with “sayote” fruits as they traveled with some Japanese in one 6X6 truck carrying other fruits and foods to Manila.
On the way, Pamfilo Rint nervously tried his best to conceal the “Bay-ong” with the gun until they reached San Andres Rotunda where it was brought down then carried to the ROTC Headquarters.
The duo then went to the office of Mr. Hammond Buck at Quezon Blvd., Quiapo where RAMON OROSA was already waiting. They discussed the matter with Buck’s truck driver. It took all of Ramon’s persuasive know-how before the driver agreed. Meantime, Memong and Pamping took the machine gun and brought it to Mr. Buck’s office without telling him about it. Only the fearful driver was in connivance with the young fighters.
Coincidentally, the following morning, Pamping’s brother, FRANCISCO RINT arrived from Aparri bringing with him dried fishes in a medium-sized bamboo basket (BALAONG). It was there where Pamping placed the machine gun covered by dried fish.
With Mr. Hammond Buck traveling with them unaware of the machine gun, the trip was full of tensions and apprehensions which started in Baclaran when a Japanese guard stopped them and pierced the “Balaong” all around with his bayonet as a matter of routine procedure. The “gang” was breathless during that moment and thanks God, the guard miraculously didn’t hit the gun inside.
When the truck reached Tagaytay it was again stopped by a Japanese sentry near Taal Vista Lodge. He was borrowing the truck. Mr. Buck agreed but requested that the truck be unloaded first of all its contents. The “balaong” with the gun was somewhat heavy and so Pamping stupidly pulled out the gun. When it was seen by Mr. Buck he almost collapsed. He blew his top and scolded the whole “barakada”. He could have been beheaded had it been discovered by the Japanese.
It was temporarily hidden behind thick “Los Baños” plants before it was brought to the nearby house where it was taken out the following morning and carried to the Orosa house. News about it spread fast and the whole town rejoiced. It boosted the morale of the community. It was surrounded by a mob of curious onlookers when it was first tried. Suddenly everyone felt brave and secured. True enough, when the actual battle came in January 1945 it was used against the Japanese who retaliated with their “chic-bung” that hit the roof of the Orosa residence.
After the liberation when the “Hukbalahaps” were very active, a truck full of them reached Alfonso. The machine gun was borrowed by Quintin Gumiit. There was no encounter and the machine gun was kept at the municipal building. It was finally confiscated by General Mascardo of BCT.
________
Data about the machine gun was provided by Pamfilo Rint of Alfonso, Cavite who was then a member of the Philippine-American Guerilla when the author interviewed him on August 13, 1986. Pamping is a close relative of Hipolito Rint, a hero of the Philippine Revolution.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
(The Role of Pampilo Rint in Acquiring it)
One big problem of the residents during the Japanese occupation was lack of firearms. Everybody was thinking of ways on how to acquire them to secure the community better. An important idea popped-up and was suggested by ANSELMO (MEMONG) JECIEL (Son of Ex-Governor Reymundo Jeciel) sometime in 1944 just before the actual battle at the Alfonso Poblacion.
He had an ROTC friend in San Andres who told him about a machine gun in their headquarters which they would be willing to exchange for a handier Tommy gun. Memong told his companions about it and practical strategy on how to get and bring home the machine gun was immediately planned.
PAMFILO RINT and CONRADO HERNAIS (Son of Mayor Hernais) were assigned to bring the Tommy gun to Manila, They placed the Tommy gun inside a native “BAY-ONG” then covered it with “sayote” fruits as they traveled with some Japanese in one 6X6 truck carrying other fruits and foods to Manila.
On the way, Pamfilo Rint nervously tried his best to conceal the “Bay-ong” with the gun until they reached San Andres Rotunda where it was brought down then carried to the ROTC Headquarters.
The duo then went to the office of Mr. Hammond Buck at Quezon Blvd., Quiapo where RAMON OROSA was already waiting. They discussed the matter with Buck’s truck driver. It took all of Ramon’s persuasive know-how before the driver agreed. Meantime, Memong and Pamping took the machine gun and brought it to Mr. Buck’s office without telling him about it. Only the fearful driver was in connivance with the young fighters.
Coincidentally, the following morning, Pamping’s brother, FRANCISCO RINT arrived from Aparri bringing with him dried fishes in a medium-sized bamboo basket (BALAONG). It was there where Pamping placed the machine gun covered by dried fish.
With Mr. Hammond Buck traveling with them unaware of the machine gun, the trip was full of tensions and apprehensions which started in Baclaran when a Japanese guard stopped them and pierced the “Balaong” all around with his bayonet as a matter of routine procedure. The “gang” was breathless during that moment and thanks God, the guard miraculously didn’t hit the gun inside.
When the truck reached Tagaytay it was again stopped by a Japanese sentry near Taal Vista Lodge. He was borrowing the truck. Mr. Buck agreed but requested that the truck be unloaded first of all its contents. The “balaong” with the gun was somewhat heavy and so Pamping stupidly pulled out the gun. When it was seen by Mr. Buck he almost collapsed. He blew his top and scolded the whole “barakada”. He could have been beheaded had it been discovered by the Japanese.
It was temporarily hidden behind thick “Los Baños” plants before it was brought to the nearby house where it was taken out the following morning and carried to the Orosa house. News about it spread fast and the whole town rejoiced. It boosted the morale of the community. It was surrounded by a mob of curious onlookers when it was first tried. Suddenly everyone felt brave and secured. True enough, when the actual battle came in January 1945 it was used against the Japanese who retaliated with their “chic-bung” that hit the roof of the Orosa residence.
After the liberation when the “Hukbalahaps” were very active, a truck full of them reached Alfonso. The machine gun was borrowed by Quintin Gumiit. There was no encounter and the machine gun was kept at the municipal building. It was finally confiscated by General Mascardo of BCT.
________
Data about the machine gun was provided by Pamfilo Rint of Alfonso, Cavite who was then a member of the Philippine-American Guerilla when the author interviewed him on August 13, 1986. Pamping is a close relative of Hipolito Rint, a hero of the Philippine Revolution.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
A THRILLING WAR EXPERIENCE
February 1, 1944: The people were in panic because of the coming of the Japanese. Young and old ran here and there carrying with them anything they could. There were crying and shouting. Everybody was in a state of hysteria. Many trembled in fear. Women got nervous; men became confused, some children were lost while old women prayed. Everybody hurried to a hiding place.
Only the brave “guerreros” were left in town. To most children, however, it was an unforgettable thrilling experience.
Before dark, the sound of bullets could be heard from both sides. It lasted the whole night. Many thought that was their end.
Our fighters held their line and the Japanese retreated. The next day was quiet, the surrounding was eerie like cemetery; even the birds seemed to stop flying. It was as if heaven was hanging above your head. People, one-by-one and in groups started coming to town from their hiding places to find out the result. Not one of the “guerillas” was hurt. “The Patron Saint saved them”, said the manongs and the manangs.
A Japanese automobile and truck were found riddled with bullets. The engines were out of order. The truck was found to be loaded with drums of kerosene and rags showing an intent to burn the town. There were drops of blood on the ground, but no corpse was found. The Japanese were very careful not to leave any of their casualties.
In the afternoon of the next day, the fighting resumed. The Japanese soldiers came back with a vengeance. Soon there was a mad exchange of shots. There were occasional moments of silence alternated by wild bursts of bullets. Shooting stopped the following morning but the guerrillas did not advance.
At about noontime, a dense smoke rose over the town. It looked like the whole Poblacion was burning. Before the Japanese retreated, they burned some houses in Alas-as Street and possibly cremated their dead comrades.
The following day, runners informed those in hiding that the Americans had landed in Nasugbu, Batangas. Everybody rejoiced and started coming out with great excitement from the caves and creeks where they breathlessly stayed the other night.
Carried by my father on his shoulders, I was brought to town from Barrio Esperanza where we fearfully stayed temporarily in a forested area near a brook. There was great rejoicing that morning when people saw seven white doves flying over the Town Plaza. They said those doves were the Seven Archangels.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
Only the brave “guerreros” were left in town. To most children, however, it was an unforgettable thrilling experience.
Before dark, the sound of bullets could be heard from both sides. It lasted the whole night. Many thought that was their end.
Our fighters held their line and the Japanese retreated. The next day was quiet, the surrounding was eerie like cemetery; even the birds seemed to stop flying. It was as if heaven was hanging above your head. People, one-by-one and in groups started coming to town from their hiding places to find out the result. Not one of the “guerillas” was hurt. “The Patron Saint saved them”, said the manongs and the manangs.
A Japanese automobile and truck were found riddled with bullets. The engines were out of order. The truck was found to be loaded with drums of kerosene and rags showing an intent to burn the town. There were drops of blood on the ground, but no corpse was found. The Japanese were very careful not to leave any of their casualties.
In the afternoon of the next day, the fighting resumed. The Japanese soldiers came back with a vengeance. Soon there was a mad exchange of shots. There were occasional moments of silence alternated by wild bursts of bullets. Shooting stopped the following morning but the guerrillas did not advance.
At about noontime, a dense smoke rose over the town. It looked like the whole Poblacion was burning. Before the Japanese retreated, they burned some houses in Alas-as Street and possibly cremated their dead comrades.
The following day, runners informed those in hiding that the Americans had landed in Nasugbu, Batangas. Everybody rejoiced and started coming out with great excitement from the caves and creeks where they breathlessly stayed the other night.
Carried by my father on his shoulders, I was brought to town from Barrio Esperanza where we fearfully stayed temporarily in a forested area near a brook. There was great rejoicing that morning when people saw seven white doves flying over the Town Plaza. They said those doves were the Seven Archangels.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
PRAYERS GRANTED
PRAYERS GRANTED BUT…
Excerpts from My Nigerian Diary
30 August 78: Petition-prayers were granted today. We, the Massey Street Children’s Hospital doctors hitch rode with the Island Maternity Group and just worked calmly and confidently. As expected we were checked by the Chief Consultant, Dr. Rilwan. But we have already finished checking all the patients before 12:00 noon. So at 1:20 p.m. we walked for the first time from MSCH to Kayola House where the Lagos State Health Management Board was housed.
We were told yesterday by our colleagues that Mr. Bakari, the LSHBM Secretary was very mad at the MSCH doctors because of the letter sent by the Secretary yesterday. But we decided to face him squarely and just tell him the truth. All the while I was praying and surrounding Mr. Bakari with the Peace and Love of Christ.
Surprisingly (or perhaps miraculously) when Mr. Bakari saw us he was so accommodating, so fatherly and so kind to us. He even promised to personally see Dr. Rilwan so he could personally discuss our transport problem. Then he ordered his messenger to immediately meet the Manager of Palm Heights Hotel so that we could be transported to MSCH daily, meantime that our transport problem was hanging and our car loans were not yet ready. Thanks God…
Five days later I learned that many of my companions at Palm Heights Hotel like Dr. Reyes, Dr. Del Mundo, Dr. Cagampan, Dr. Macaraeg, Dr. Rivera and Dr. Mendoza were all planning to transfer to another dwelling place where, according to the rumors, they could earn more Naira Illegally. Only Dr. Lumbay and I would be left. I was really at a loss because my transport problem was not yet fully solved. I also needed more Naira so I left everything to God. I was sure He would again enlighten me and guide me to the right decision.
Again I surrounded those who were planning to transfer with the Peace and Love of Christ so they would include me and Dr. Lumbay with their plans while at the same time invoking God to continue guiding us.
Prayers again granted two days later. Doctors Reyes, Rivera, Mendoza and I went to visit Carlton Hotel to see our colleagues there. It was not a miserable kind of life there specially considering that they could earn extra amount for sacrificing a little discomfort , a little mess and little more work.
It was also there where we heard the story about the ramble that happened at “Palarong Pilipino” (the place where Filipinos gathered every Sunday) three days ago. A certain Filipino Seaman quarreled with a Nigerian Taxi driver when another Nigerian intruded. Other Filipinos also intruded and this resulted into a rumble. The Nigerian passenger reported the case to the Police and many Filipinos were pointed by her and were apprehended.
The Philippine Ambassador came to help but to no avail. He was even insulted. The case was brought to court with four Filipinos involved.
The Ambassador gave a warning to Filipinos to keep cool and calm because if the case would be published in Nigerian Newspapers that Filipinos mobbed a Nigerian, all Filipinos would be in hot water. The Ambassador promised that should the case go that far, he would immediately request for a Military Airplane from the Philippines to recall all Filipinos in Nigeria. It created fear and panic among us. But I was sure God knew better. Even if we would be recalled back to the Philippines it would surely be under smooth and diplomatic procedures. It was in cases like this that President and Mrs. Marcos could show their best.
7 September 78: Father Slattery brought me to the college he founded 22 years ago, St. Finbarr College, a few minutes drive from Palm Heights Hotel. He was trying his best to entertain me as he could feel how I felt in a foreign country away from my family and without money.
It was Fr. Slattery who defined to me Nigeria (Lagos, particularly) as ‘a place where some poor souls suffer for a while before going to heaven’. In short, to him, Nigeria was Purgatory although I thought it was not that bad really. I only had misconceptions. I was made to believe that in Nigeria doctors were extraordinarily accommodated and were treated very specially. Now I was beginning to think otherwise.
Two days later. We. (Drs. Reyes, del Mundo, Cagampan, Macaraeg, Lumbay,Rivera Mendoza and myself) planned to move to Skyline Hotel at Ikurudo road. It was more accessible to transportation and could earn extra by special arrangement with the Hotel Manger. We were to cook our own food and take care of our “house”. In the afternoon our request was granted.
We moved there. Four rooms with common sala and common dining room. In one room was Doctors Del Mundo and Reyes, in another room were Doctors Rivera and Mendoza, at the third were Doctors Cagampan and Macaraeg and with me was Dr. Lumbay, my only disappointment because he was too childish, so carefree and very untidy.
Excerpts from My Nigerian Diary
30 August 78: Petition-prayers were granted today. We, the Massey Street Children’s Hospital doctors hitch rode with the Island Maternity Group and just worked calmly and confidently. As expected we were checked by the Chief Consultant, Dr. Rilwan. But we have already finished checking all the patients before 12:00 noon. So at 1:20 p.m. we walked for the first time from MSCH to Kayola House where the Lagos State Health Management Board was housed.
We were told yesterday by our colleagues that Mr. Bakari, the LSHBM Secretary was very mad at the MSCH doctors because of the letter sent by the Secretary yesterday. But we decided to face him squarely and just tell him the truth. All the while I was praying and surrounding Mr. Bakari with the Peace and Love of Christ.
Surprisingly (or perhaps miraculously) when Mr. Bakari saw us he was so accommodating, so fatherly and so kind to us. He even promised to personally see Dr. Rilwan so he could personally discuss our transport problem. Then he ordered his messenger to immediately meet the Manager of Palm Heights Hotel so that we could be transported to MSCH daily, meantime that our transport problem was hanging and our car loans were not yet ready. Thanks God…
Five days later I learned that many of my companions at Palm Heights Hotel like Dr. Reyes, Dr. Del Mundo, Dr. Cagampan, Dr. Macaraeg, Dr. Rivera and Dr. Mendoza were all planning to transfer to another dwelling place where, according to the rumors, they could earn more Naira Illegally. Only Dr. Lumbay and I would be left. I was really at a loss because my transport problem was not yet fully solved. I also needed more Naira so I left everything to God. I was sure He would again enlighten me and guide me to the right decision.
Again I surrounded those who were planning to transfer with the Peace and Love of Christ so they would include me and Dr. Lumbay with their plans while at the same time invoking God to continue guiding us.
Prayers again granted two days later. Doctors Reyes, Rivera, Mendoza and I went to visit Carlton Hotel to see our colleagues there. It was not a miserable kind of life there specially considering that they could earn extra amount for sacrificing a little discomfort , a little mess and little more work.
It was also there where we heard the story about the ramble that happened at “Palarong Pilipino” (the place where Filipinos gathered every Sunday) three days ago. A certain Filipino Seaman quarreled with a Nigerian Taxi driver when another Nigerian intruded. Other Filipinos also intruded and this resulted into a rumble. The Nigerian passenger reported the case to the Police and many Filipinos were pointed by her and were apprehended.
The Philippine Ambassador came to help but to no avail. He was even insulted. The case was brought to court with four Filipinos involved.
The Ambassador gave a warning to Filipinos to keep cool and calm because if the case would be published in Nigerian Newspapers that Filipinos mobbed a Nigerian, all Filipinos would be in hot water. The Ambassador promised that should the case go that far, he would immediately request for a Military Airplane from the Philippines to recall all Filipinos in Nigeria. It created fear and panic among us. But I was sure God knew better. Even if we would be recalled back to the Philippines it would surely be under smooth and diplomatic procedures. It was in cases like this that President and Mrs. Marcos could show their best.
7 September 78: Father Slattery brought me to the college he founded 22 years ago, St. Finbarr College, a few minutes drive from Palm Heights Hotel. He was trying his best to entertain me as he could feel how I felt in a foreign country away from my family and without money.
It was Fr. Slattery who defined to me Nigeria (Lagos, particularly) as ‘a place where some poor souls suffer for a while before going to heaven’. In short, to him, Nigeria was Purgatory although I thought it was not that bad really. I only had misconceptions. I was made to believe that in Nigeria doctors were extraordinarily accommodated and were treated very specially. Now I was beginning to think otherwise.
Two days later. We. (Drs. Reyes, del Mundo, Cagampan, Macaraeg, Lumbay,Rivera Mendoza and myself) planned to move to Skyline Hotel at Ikurudo road. It was more accessible to transportation and could earn extra by special arrangement with the Hotel Manger. We were to cook our own food and take care of our “house”. In the afternoon our request was granted.
We moved there. Four rooms with common sala and common dining room. In one room was Doctors Del Mundo and Reyes, in another room were Doctors Rivera and Mendoza, at the third were Doctors Cagampan and Macaraeg and with me was Dr. Lumbay, my only disappointment because he was too childish, so carefree and very untidy.
SANGHIYANG AND SAYAW SA APOY
F. SANGHIYANG
Among articles and write-ups coming out of books and magazines, I often encounter that “SAYAW SA APOY” is also called “SANGHIYANG”. This is wrong because based on what I have personally seen and according to those who are involved in doing them, “SANGHIYANG” & “SAYAW SA APOY” are two distinct rituals.
“Sayaw sa Apoy” is only a part or additional show to glamorize the performance of the “Sanghiyang” which could be performed separately. “Sayaw sa Apoy”, however, cannot be done without first doing “Sanghiyang” as preliminary ritual.
“Sanghiyang” is actually a ritual of Ancestral Offering based on the Old Testament. This is always done in preparation for other rituals such as Firewalking or Fire Dancing. “Basang-Gilagid”, guiding to eternal rest one who died, or healing someone bewitched.
It is also performed before searching for a lost item, such as jewelry and other valuables. After it, the “Barka” (or Magsasanghiyang) dialogues with the Superpower through her “Timbangan” (pendulum)
SAYAW SA APOY
As noted by Alejandro Roces, "In Alfonso, Cavite, there is a Barrio called MARAHAN where there lives an exclusive sect that perform a cultic ritual known as SANGHIYANG. This ritual used to be a pagan rite of ancestral worship but was later imbued with Christian connotations and biblical justification". Presently, it is being practiced not only as a form of ancestral worship but also as preparation of mediumtistic healing and a preliminary rite for a more colorful ritual called SAYAW SA APOY (Dance on Fire).
The original dancers claimed that SAYAW SA APOY actually started during the time of Noah, immediately after the Universal Deluge. (Gen, VIII:20) “And Noah built an altar unto the Lord and taking of all cattle and fowls that were clean, offered holocaust upon the altar.” This very act of Thanksgiving was handed down from generation to generation, and how it reached Alfonso, specifically Barrio Marahan, God only knows.
These Fire Dancers call themselves “BARCO”, meaning boat, signifying Noah’s Ark. How one becomes a “barco” is an interesting process that takes years of trials and spiritual exercises. This consists of several stages:
FIRST; “ANG PAG-AABOT NG TIMBANGAN” or the giving of the scale. The “TIMBANGAN” here is not like any of the measuring scales we find in the market. It is actually a chain necklace usually hanging one of several antique medallions which are considered amulets.
SECOND; “ANG PAGPAPASPAS” or the symbolic cleansing stage whereby the potential “barco” is fanned all over with a leafy branch of “Balas-hari” or “Baston ni San Jose” (Scientific name: Cordiline terminals).
THIRD; The “CORONATION” which is the final stage, after it the candidate is considered a full fledge “barco” of “barca”. This is the most colorful stage and an occasion for lavish feast. A “barco” automatically becomes a potential fire dancer aside from so many other special functions he can perform.
During the Spanish time this Fire Dancing Ritual was performed often during Barrio Fiestas and whenever there was an occasion for Thanksgiving. Sometime in 1921 Mr. Hammond Buck, a Thomasite teacher, noticed this group and brought them to Australia.
They performed there for one year but the skeptic Australian for failure to find a better explanation branded the dancers evil and considered the rite “satanic”. None of the group is still alive today and the dancers now are their descendants. Like their parents and grandparents, our present 'magsasayaw sa apoy' are all practicing Roman Catholics and ordinary people of good moral character. It is surprising why observers usually have a tendency to look at the negative aspects of things. In this particular case if we focus our attention and thinking on the negative side of fire we shall find nothing but hell and the devil. But let us not forget that for many occasions, God manifested Himself in the FORM OF FIRE. (see Exodus 111:2 =And the LORD APPEARED TO HIM IN A FLAME OF FIRE…” Acts 11:3 =and there appeared to them parted tongue as if it were of fire…; Exodus XIII:21 = and the Lord went before them to show the way by day in a pillar of cloud, and by night in a PILLAR OF FIRE…: Ecclesiasticus XLVIII:9 = who was taken up in a WHIRLWIND OF FIRE; in a chariot of FIERY HORSES).
The original seven dancers who went to Australia were also presented by Mr. Buck at the carnivals but the people thought the fire was artificial and the show did not click. Somehow the dancers grew old and got tired. The performances became more infrequent and was almost forgotten, then until the First Lady, Mrs. Imelda Marcos started reviving Filipino traditions and cultural heritages.
The interest in the Mystical Show was revitalized and gained new momentum. A group was organized under the leadership of Mang Edilberto Alvarez and Aling Eufrocina Hernan, both of Barrio Marahan, Alfonso, Cavite. While their performances were not as fantastic as that of the original group, they are magnificent and just as unbelievable.
The Fire Dancers use a special formula of prayer which I am not supposed to reveal and indeed, there is more to this show than just fire, smoke and glowing coals.
As Mr. Alejandro Roces said during one of his lectures, “In this scientific age, it is stupid to believe that people can walk on fire; more stupids is not to believe when you see that it is happening.
To see is to believe and to believe is to accept and to surrender. Whatever is behind this rite is a reality that we have to accept. There is a POWER BEYOND OUR COMPREHENSION and anything beyond our comprehension is something no one can attempt to fully explain.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante,m.d.
Among articles and write-ups coming out of books and magazines, I often encounter that “SAYAW SA APOY” is also called “SANGHIYANG”. This is wrong because based on what I have personally seen and according to those who are involved in doing them, “SANGHIYANG” & “SAYAW SA APOY” are two distinct rituals.
“Sayaw sa Apoy” is only a part or additional show to glamorize the performance of the “Sanghiyang” which could be performed separately. “Sayaw sa Apoy”, however, cannot be done without first doing “Sanghiyang” as preliminary ritual.
“Sanghiyang” is actually a ritual of Ancestral Offering based on the Old Testament. This is always done in preparation for other rituals such as Firewalking or Fire Dancing. “Basang-Gilagid”, guiding to eternal rest one who died, or healing someone bewitched.
It is also performed before searching for a lost item, such as jewelry and other valuables. After it, the “Barka” (or Magsasanghiyang) dialogues with the Superpower through her “Timbangan” (pendulum)
SAYAW SA APOY
As noted by Alejandro Roces, "In Alfonso, Cavite, there is a Barrio called MARAHAN where there lives an exclusive sect that perform a cultic ritual known as SANGHIYANG. This ritual used to be a pagan rite of ancestral worship but was later imbued with Christian connotations and biblical justification". Presently, it is being practiced not only as a form of ancestral worship but also as preparation of mediumtistic healing and a preliminary rite for a more colorful ritual called SAYAW SA APOY (Dance on Fire).
The original dancers claimed that SAYAW SA APOY actually started during the time of Noah, immediately after the Universal Deluge. (Gen, VIII:20) “And Noah built an altar unto the Lord and taking of all cattle and fowls that were clean, offered holocaust upon the altar.” This very act of Thanksgiving was handed down from generation to generation, and how it reached Alfonso, specifically Barrio Marahan, God only knows.
These Fire Dancers call themselves “BARCO”, meaning boat, signifying Noah’s Ark. How one becomes a “barco” is an interesting process that takes years of trials and spiritual exercises. This consists of several stages:
FIRST; “ANG PAG-AABOT NG TIMBANGAN” or the giving of the scale. The “TIMBANGAN” here is not like any of the measuring scales we find in the market. It is actually a chain necklace usually hanging one of several antique medallions which are considered amulets.
SECOND; “ANG PAGPAPASPAS” or the symbolic cleansing stage whereby the potential “barco” is fanned all over with a leafy branch of “Balas-hari” or “Baston ni San Jose” (Scientific name: Cordiline terminals).
THIRD; The “CORONATION” which is the final stage, after it the candidate is considered a full fledge “barco” of “barca”. This is the most colorful stage and an occasion for lavish feast. A “barco” automatically becomes a potential fire dancer aside from so many other special functions he can perform.
During the Spanish time this Fire Dancing Ritual was performed often during Barrio Fiestas and whenever there was an occasion for Thanksgiving. Sometime in 1921 Mr. Hammond Buck, a Thomasite teacher, noticed this group and brought them to Australia.
They performed there for one year but the skeptic Australian for failure to find a better explanation branded the dancers evil and considered the rite “satanic”. None of the group is still alive today and the dancers now are their descendants. Like their parents and grandparents, our present 'magsasayaw sa apoy' are all practicing Roman Catholics and ordinary people of good moral character. It is surprising why observers usually have a tendency to look at the negative aspects of things. In this particular case if we focus our attention and thinking on the negative side of fire we shall find nothing but hell and the devil. But let us not forget that for many occasions, God manifested Himself in the FORM OF FIRE. (see Exodus 111:2 =And the LORD APPEARED TO HIM IN A FLAME OF FIRE…” Acts 11:3 =and there appeared to them parted tongue as if it were of fire…; Exodus XIII:21 = and the Lord went before them to show the way by day in a pillar of cloud, and by night in a PILLAR OF FIRE…: Ecclesiasticus XLVIII:9 = who was taken up in a WHIRLWIND OF FIRE; in a chariot of FIERY HORSES).
The original seven dancers who went to Australia were also presented by Mr. Buck at the carnivals but the people thought the fire was artificial and the show did not click. Somehow the dancers grew old and got tired. The performances became more infrequent and was almost forgotten, then until the First Lady, Mrs. Imelda Marcos started reviving Filipino traditions and cultural heritages.
The interest in the Mystical Show was revitalized and gained new momentum. A group was organized under the leadership of Mang Edilberto Alvarez and Aling Eufrocina Hernan, both of Barrio Marahan, Alfonso, Cavite. While their performances were not as fantastic as that of the original group, they are magnificent and just as unbelievable.
The Fire Dancers use a special formula of prayer which I am not supposed to reveal and indeed, there is more to this show than just fire, smoke and glowing coals.
As Mr. Alejandro Roces said during one of his lectures, “In this scientific age, it is stupid to believe that people can walk on fire; more stupids is not to believe when you see that it is happening.
To see is to believe and to believe is to accept and to surrender. Whatever is behind this rite is a reality that we have to accept. There is a POWER BEYOND OUR COMPREHENSION and anything beyond our comprehension is something no one can attempt to fully explain.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante,m.d.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
TRIPLE 8 LUCK BROKEN
TRIPLE 8 LUCK BROKEN
Excerpts from my Nigerian Diary
8/26/78 – two plus six was still eight but I thought the good vibrations and the good fortunes earlier brought about by triple 8 was beginning to disintegrate. This day we were pulled out from the Federal Government Special Guest House to give way to some Heads of States coming for a conference. The new place was Puma Hotel at Plot 15 , Oyadiran Estate, Sabo-Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria.
It was far from my idea of a Hotel, not even a 5th class one following Philippine standards. It was similar to some low class motels in Ongpin, Manila but the smell was truly out of this world – a combination of that of a warehouse, a catacomb and a forgotten cabinet. The crafsmanshift was undeniably done by amateurs without supervision at all. We hoped against hope that our stay at Puma Hotel was only temporary. It looked worse because we came from The Federal Government Special Guest House. We all felt downhearted and totally disappointed. I promised myself not to tell this to my wife until she discovers the truth through my diary.
The following day was a hectic one. Early in the morning, together with Dr. Elizabeth Rivera and Dr. Agustin Lumbay we went to Massey Street Children’s Hospital to negotiate for our transport but the Chief Consultant, Dr. Rilwan was not accommodating. He was very negative concerning our request. Thanks God Dra. Basilio, an old-timer, was there to help us. She accompanied us to the Health Management Board where she brought our problem. But the Chairman of the Board only promised to help without formal communication with Dr. Rilwan who in turn, denied us again. We went back to the Management Board and did not leave the place until we got a letter from the Secretary.
Then we moved from the ‘prison-like’ Puma Hotel to Palm Heights Hotel which was o.k. except for the fishy surroundings. After all the past glories in the beginning, problems were now sprouting one by one like mushrooms on rainy days.
1. We felt we were treated unfairly like being accommodated at a prison-like room of Puma Hotel and the fishy surroundings of Palm Heights Hotel.
2. We, who were assigned at Massey Street Children’s Hospital, were not sure of our transport.
3. Because we reported the case to the Health Management Board which in turn wrote to the Hospital about our complaints, the Hospital Authorities reported to the Management Board that we were not up-to-date in our duties last week (since we have no transport). So there were a lot of confusions, misunderstandings and heavy hearts along the line.
4. The group turned disorganized as each one tried to look for a better accommodation and tried to do what ever he thought was good for him. As a result, the different Hotel Managers became irritated and reported the “childish and irresponsible” behavior of some Filipino Doctors. So, reports and counter reports and confusions after confusions followed.
5. We were all running out of money and you can imagine how it felt to be in a foreign country without money.
6. This was the time we thought of our love ones left in the Philippines. This was the moment we were seeking for shoulders to lean on.
I just prayed to God, because He was the most powerful and the most knowledgeable to show us the right thing to do. He was the only one who could protect and guide us all especially now that we were on the foreign land.
I was confident that God was guiding us all. He possibly was only teaching us a lesson not to be abusive, not to be stupid and not to be childish in making our decisions. He allowed us to come to Nigeria, He would show us the truth, the path, the light and the way.
I just hoped that the authorities at the Massey Street Children’s Hospital would always be surrounded by the peace and love of Christ so that they would always be understanding, friendly and accommodating to us. (to be continued)
Excerpts from my Nigerian Diary
8/26/78 – two plus six was still eight but I thought the good vibrations and the good fortunes earlier brought about by triple 8 was beginning to disintegrate. This day we were pulled out from the Federal Government Special Guest House to give way to some Heads of States coming for a conference. The new place was Puma Hotel at Plot 15 , Oyadiran Estate, Sabo-Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria.
It was far from my idea of a Hotel, not even a 5th class one following Philippine standards. It was similar to some low class motels in Ongpin, Manila but the smell was truly out of this world – a combination of that of a warehouse, a catacomb and a forgotten cabinet. The crafsmanshift was undeniably done by amateurs without supervision at all. We hoped against hope that our stay at Puma Hotel was only temporary. It looked worse because we came from The Federal Government Special Guest House. We all felt downhearted and totally disappointed. I promised myself not to tell this to my wife until she discovers the truth through my diary.
The following day was a hectic one. Early in the morning, together with Dr. Elizabeth Rivera and Dr. Agustin Lumbay we went to Massey Street Children’s Hospital to negotiate for our transport but the Chief Consultant, Dr. Rilwan was not accommodating. He was very negative concerning our request. Thanks God Dra. Basilio, an old-timer, was there to help us. She accompanied us to the Health Management Board where she brought our problem. But the Chairman of the Board only promised to help without formal communication with Dr. Rilwan who in turn, denied us again. We went back to the Management Board and did not leave the place until we got a letter from the Secretary.
Then we moved from the ‘prison-like’ Puma Hotel to Palm Heights Hotel which was o.k. except for the fishy surroundings. After all the past glories in the beginning, problems were now sprouting one by one like mushrooms on rainy days.
1. We felt we were treated unfairly like being accommodated at a prison-like room of Puma Hotel and the fishy surroundings of Palm Heights Hotel.
2. We, who were assigned at Massey Street Children’s Hospital, were not sure of our transport.
3. Because we reported the case to the Health Management Board which in turn wrote to the Hospital about our complaints, the Hospital Authorities reported to the Management Board that we were not up-to-date in our duties last week (since we have no transport). So there were a lot of confusions, misunderstandings and heavy hearts along the line.
4. The group turned disorganized as each one tried to look for a better accommodation and tried to do what ever he thought was good for him. As a result, the different Hotel Managers became irritated and reported the “childish and irresponsible” behavior of some Filipino Doctors. So, reports and counter reports and confusions after confusions followed.
5. We were all running out of money and you can imagine how it felt to be in a foreign country without money.
6. This was the time we thought of our love ones left in the Philippines. This was the moment we were seeking for shoulders to lean on.
I just prayed to God, because He was the most powerful and the most knowledgeable to show us the right thing to do. He was the only one who could protect and guide us all especially now that we were on the foreign land.
I was confident that God was guiding us all. He possibly was only teaching us a lesson not to be abusive, not to be stupid and not to be childish in making our decisions. He allowed us to come to Nigeria, He would show us the truth, the path, the light and the way.
I just hoped that the authorities at the Massey Street Children’s Hospital would always be surrounded by the peace and love of Christ so that they would always be understanding, friendly and accommodating to us. (to be continued)
MIRACLES ATTRIBUTED TO ST. JOHN NEPOMUCENE
MIRACLES ATTRIBUTED TO ST. JOHN NEPOMUCENE
ST. JOHN STROLLING BY NIGHT
A long time ago, in the Municipality of Alfonso, Cavite, parishioners who went to church early to hear Mass noticed a great change in the position of the Patron Saint in the main altar.
The image was moved far behind in one corner as if he just climbed the stairs from the back door. The people who investigated the case arrived at the conclusion that something fantastic happened…
The robe of the Saint was festooned with fresh amor seco (tingloy). Everyone was mystified. The Saint walked around the plaza the other night, they concluded.
The parish priest ordered the acolyte to remove the “tingloy” and requested the people to pray. Some took the “tingloy” with them on their way home and used them for medicinal purposes.
The following day, the “miracle” was repeated and ever since the whole town believed that the Patron Saint was making rounds at night, and that kept the town peaceful.
The “miracle” happened many mornings for many years and people believed it. Lately, though, skeptics propounded theories that it was only done by the parish priest purposely to increase the collections from the faithful when they came to hear Mass on Sundays.
FEAST DAY – MAY 16TH YEARLY
The Day of Saint John Nepomucene is celebrated on May 16 of every year to commemorate the day of his martyrdom in 1393. A heavy stone was tied to his neck and he was dumped in a river when he refused to tell King Wenceslas what his queen confessed to St. John.
In Alfonso and anywhere else in the Philippines, the month of May is the month of rain so, it was decided one time to change the date of the celebration. What happened then was a great calamity. The town was visited by several typhoons and even on the chosen day replacing May 16th, they were not able to celebrate for it rained continuously. The old folks attributed it to St. John’s disapproval of the idea of changing his Fiesta.
Others insisted that it was a mere coincidence and should not be taken seriously. Again an elected chairman of the Fiesta Committee transferred the day to a Sunday because May 16 then fell on a week day. There was no typhoon but something very unpleasant happened. Many similar incidents related to changing the data of the Fiesta occurred in several occasions and many were fully convinced that St. John was really against the idea.
ST. JOHN GUIDED THE MAYOR
During the Japanese occupation, Alfonso was occupied by the Japanese. On their arrival to the town, they were received by then Mayor Angeles Hernais at the entrance of the town, in Palinta. They were brought to the Municipal building where they talked to the Mayor.
Later, the Japanese asked why the Mayor was always accompanied by his bearded grandfather. Mayor Hernais was surprised for he was never accompanied by his already dead grandfather. The Japanese explained that they saw the bearded old man when they were met in Palinta and again in the office of the Mayor.
The story went around until finally, the people thought that the bearded old man was St. John. Nepomucene, guiding the Mayor.
There was an incident that happened in the Alfonso Elementary School building when the Japanese used it as shelter. At night, they were bothered by a “bearded old man and seven little children” playing around. Bothered by and perhaps scared of this phenomenon, the Japanese never mingled directly either with the old man or with any of the children. The Japanese left and refused to use the building.
Again, the old man was believed to be St. John and the seven little children, the seven Archangels: Miguel, Rafael, Gabriel, Rodiel, Oriel, Exequiel and Baraquiel.
THE TOWN SURROUNDED BY BAMBOOS
During the time when 'bandidos' were still very common, almost every town has its notorious group. The bandits tried to outdo one another by making surprise attacks on the other groups in other towns.
Alfonso did not have a group of its own. One night, the Malabon group decided to attack Alfonso. To their astonishment, they all got lost among bamboos which seemed to “surround the whole town”. The following day, either out of fear or by the dictates of conscience, they apologetically revealed their evil plot to the people with an explanation of how it did not materialize. As in the past, people believed St. John Nepomucene again protected the town by shielding it with big, tall and thorny bamboos.
FIRES FENCED THE PLAZA
In 1943, a group of singers on their way home from a”pabasa” were happily chatting when suddenly, they saw bright lights, shooting upwards from among acacia trees then lining the church’s plaza. The lights were multi-colored, very similar to the modern fireworks we see today. The group was afraid and did not know what to do. Shocked, they decided to keep quiet. They learned about an attempt of a certain group of undesirables to rob the convent. They were stopped by the same bright multi-colored lights seen by the singers. Scared out of their wits, they scampered away, forgetting their plan.
PROCESSION OF THREE PRIESTS
During the cholera epidemic of 1918, Alfonso was not spared. There was an average of five deaths every day. One who attended the funeral one afternoon may be dead the following day. Cholera then was a real terrible killer and the way things were going, the whole town would have been decimated in a month or so.
One night on their way home, several musicians who came from a band rehearsal (cademia), with Placido Ortega, also a musician who lived to tell the story, saw three priests going around the town as if in a procession. The musicians got interested and followed the three priests. After rounding the whole poblacion, the priests went to different directions. One turned to the North towards Indang, the other one to the East towards Mendez while the last one stayed and entered the church of Alfonso.
Surprisingly, the following day, no one in Alfonso, Indang and Mendez died of cholera. Miraculously, there were no other cholera deaths afterwards. The faithful presumed that the three priests were the Patron Saints of the three towns: St. Gregory of Indang, St. Agustine of Mendez, and St. John of Alfonso. The three were all priests.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
NOTE: Please share your miraculous experiences with St. John Nepomucene.
ST. JOHN STROLLING BY NIGHT
A long time ago, in the Municipality of Alfonso, Cavite, parishioners who went to church early to hear Mass noticed a great change in the position of the Patron Saint in the main altar.
The image was moved far behind in one corner as if he just climbed the stairs from the back door. The people who investigated the case arrived at the conclusion that something fantastic happened…
The robe of the Saint was festooned with fresh amor seco (tingloy). Everyone was mystified. The Saint walked around the plaza the other night, they concluded.
The parish priest ordered the acolyte to remove the “tingloy” and requested the people to pray. Some took the “tingloy” with them on their way home and used them for medicinal purposes.
The following day, the “miracle” was repeated and ever since the whole town believed that the Patron Saint was making rounds at night, and that kept the town peaceful.
The “miracle” happened many mornings for many years and people believed it. Lately, though, skeptics propounded theories that it was only done by the parish priest purposely to increase the collections from the faithful when they came to hear Mass on Sundays.
FEAST DAY – MAY 16TH YEARLY
The Day of Saint John Nepomucene is celebrated on May 16 of every year to commemorate the day of his martyrdom in 1393. A heavy stone was tied to his neck and he was dumped in a river when he refused to tell King Wenceslas what his queen confessed to St. John.
In Alfonso and anywhere else in the Philippines, the month of May is the month of rain so, it was decided one time to change the date of the celebration. What happened then was a great calamity. The town was visited by several typhoons and even on the chosen day replacing May 16th, they were not able to celebrate for it rained continuously. The old folks attributed it to St. John’s disapproval of the idea of changing his Fiesta.
Others insisted that it was a mere coincidence and should not be taken seriously. Again an elected chairman of the Fiesta Committee transferred the day to a Sunday because May 16 then fell on a week day. There was no typhoon but something very unpleasant happened. Many similar incidents related to changing the data of the Fiesta occurred in several occasions and many were fully convinced that St. John was really against the idea.
ST. JOHN GUIDED THE MAYOR
During the Japanese occupation, Alfonso was occupied by the Japanese. On their arrival to the town, they were received by then Mayor Angeles Hernais at the entrance of the town, in Palinta. They were brought to the Municipal building where they talked to the Mayor.
Later, the Japanese asked why the Mayor was always accompanied by his bearded grandfather. Mayor Hernais was surprised for he was never accompanied by his already dead grandfather. The Japanese explained that they saw the bearded old man when they were met in Palinta and again in the office of the Mayor.
The story went around until finally, the people thought that the bearded old man was St. John. Nepomucene, guiding the Mayor.
There was an incident that happened in the Alfonso Elementary School building when the Japanese used it as shelter. At night, they were bothered by a “bearded old man and seven little children” playing around. Bothered by and perhaps scared of this phenomenon, the Japanese never mingled directly either with the old man or with any of the children. The Japanese left and refused to use the building.
Again, the old man was believed to be St. John and the seven little children, the seven Archangels: Miguel, Rafael, Gabriel, Rodiel, Oriel, Exequiel and Baraquiel.
THE TOWN SURROUNDED BY BAMBOOS
During the time when 'bandidos' were still very common, almost every town has its notorious group. The bandits tried to outdo one another by making surprise attacks on the other groups in other towns.
Alfonso did not have a group of its own. One night, the Malabon group decided to attack Alfonso. To their astonishment, they all got lost among bamboos which seemed to “surround the whole town”. The following day, either out of fear or by the dictates of conscience, they apologetically revealed their evil plot to the people with an explanation of how it did not materialize. As in the past, people believed St. John Nepomucene again protected the town by shielding it with big, tall and thorny bamboos.
FIRES FENCED THE PLAZA
In 1943, a group of singers on their way home from a”pabasa” were happily chatting when suddenly, they saw bright lights, shooting upwards from among acacia trees then lining the church’s plaza. The lights were multi-colored, very similar to the modern fireworks we see today. The group was afraid and did not know what to do. Shocked, they decided to keep quiet. They learned about an attempt of a certain group of undesirables to rob the convent. They were stopped by the same bright multi-colored lights seen by the singers. Scared out of their wits, they scampered away, forgetting their plan.
PROCESSION OF THREE PRIESTS
During the cholera epidemic of 1918, Alfonso was not spared. There was an average of five deaths every day. One who attended the funeral one afternoon may be dead the following day. Cholera then was a real terrible killer and the way things were going, the whole town would have been decimated in a month or so.
One night on their way home, several musicians who came from a band rehearsal (cademia), with Placido Ortega, also a musician who lived to tell the story, saw three priests going around the town as if in a procession. The musicians got interested and followed the three priests. After rounding the whole poblacion, the priests went to different directions. One turned to the North towards Indang, the other one to the East towards Mendez while the last one stayed and entered the church of Alfonso.
Surprisingly, the following day, no one in Alfonso, Indang and Mendez died of cholera. Miraculously, there were no other cholera deaths afterwards. The faithful presumed that the three priests were the Patron Saints of the three towns: St. Gregory of Indang, St. Agustine of Mendez, and St. John of Alfonso. The three were all priests.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
NOTE: Please share your miraculous experiences with St. John Nepomucene.
Monday, June 23, 2008
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE MOON
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE MOON
Excerpts from my Nigerian Diary
In as far as I was concerned Nigeria was like the other side of the moon. I didn’t have any idea what was there. The Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris was quite crowded with so many Nigerians going to Lagos where we were also going. I wondered where they all came from. We were together inside UTA Air Afrique. I was seated in between Boyet and a pretty French young girl about as old as my daughter Ibeth.
When we arrived at Muralla Mohammed International Airport in Lagos no one was there to meet us. We made plans for ourselves like no one would go to the comfort room alone and that we should all be very cautious about everything that we shall do. We just grouped together while waiting for our Team Leader, Dr. Nestor Reyes.
Later we were transferred to the VIP Hall where we were served coffee and waited long. I suggested that we do an impromptu program, a sort of joke session that somehow added life to all of us until we were finally picked at around 10:30a.m. We finally reached our destination only about 20 minutes past 12:00 noon.
We were temporarily housed at the Federal Government Special Guest House at Victoria Islands, Lagos. The accommodation was good, like that of a 5 star hotel in Manila. I stayed at room 305 with Dr. Delfin Cagampan. I received my first 5 Naira in exchange to my dollar. Two other groups of physicians arrived that night. They were not as lucky as our group because one group was allowed only 3 hours in Rome and the other, only two hours in Brussels compared to our two days and one night in Paris. Some who were not accommodated slept at the lobby of the Guest House.
Having nothing yet to do on August 13, 1978 we heard Mass at a Church, 5 minutes away from the Guest House. We met several Filipinos.
After lunch I went to the beach across with Dr. Florescio. After dinner I started Bible sharing with Doctors Florescio, Nasareth, and Angulunan. They like the format and wanted to invite other doctors next time.
The following day we scheduled to go to the Ministry of Health but nothing happened. Instead a representative from the Ministry came and oriented us at 2:00 p.m. My name and that of Dr. Montecer were not included in the list but we were promised not to worry. It seemed triple 8 was still working its magic. Without having started on anything yet, our salary was already increased from 8170 Naira to 8928, an additional 75 8 Naira. We were also tentatively scheduled to work in the vicinity of Lagos City. The post assigned to me was Massy Street Childlren’s Hospital in Lagos Island, a big Children’s Hospital similar to our National Children’s Hospital in Quezon City.
I found out that Nigerian officers were very unsystematic. Processing of our papers were not even 25 % finished. My room mate, Dr. Cagampan was already posted to Ikeja General Hospital while my friend Boyet was already moved to Ikurvov Health Center. I didn’t know yet when I would be pulled out from the Guest House.
That night I hypnotized Mrs. Vinka Osuntola. She came to know about it after Dr. Romero told the Manager, Mr. Sam of the Guest House what he saw when I hypnotized Dr. W. Palomar, who only submitted after I hypnotized Dr. Bagao, Dr. Florescio and Dr. Cagampan.
I could feel that my stay in Nigeria would be interesting. I was beginning to enjoy my days.
Excerpts from my Nigerian Diary
In as far as I was concerned Nigeria was like the other side of the moon. I didn’t have any idea what was there. The Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris was quite crowded with so many Nigerians going to Lagos where we were also going. I wondered where they all came from. We were together inside UTA Air Afrique. I was seated in between Boyet and a pretty French young girl about as old as my daughter Ibeth.
When we arrived at Muralla Mohammed International Airport in Lagos no one was there to meet us. We made plans for ourselves like no one would go to the comfort room alone and that we should all be very cautious about everything that we shall do. We just grouped together while waiting for our Team Leader, Dr. Nestor Reyes.
Later we were transferred to the VIP Hall where we were served coffee and waited long. I suggested that we do an impromptu program, a sort of joke session that somehow added life to all of us until we were finally picked at around 10:30a.m. We finally reached our destination only about 20 minutes past 12:00 noon.
We were temporarily housed at the Federal Government Special Guest House at Victoria Islands, Lagos. The accommodation was good, like that of a 5 star hotel in Manila. I stayed at room 305 with Dr. Delfin Cagampan. I received my first 5 Naira in exchange to my dollar. Two other groups of physicians arrived that night. They were not as lucky as our group because one group was allowed only 3 hours in Rome and the other, only two hours in Brussels compared to our two days and one night in Paris. Some who were not accommodated slept at the lobby of the Guest House.
Having nothing yet to do on August 13, 1978 we heard Mass at a Church, 5 minutes away from the Guest House. We met several Filipinos.
After lunch I went to the beach across with Dr. Florescio. After dinner I started Bible sharing with Doctors Florescio, Nasareth, and Angulunan. They like the format and wanted to invite other doctors next time.
The following day we scheduled to go to the Ministry of Health but nothing happened. Instead a representative from the Ministry came and oriented us at 2:00 p.m. My name and that of Dr. Montecer were not included in the list but we were promised not to worry. It seemed triple 8 was still working its magic. Without having started on anything yet, our salary was already increased from 8170 Naira to 8928, an additional 75 8 Naira. We were also tentatively scheduled to work in the vicinity of Lagos City. The post assigned to me was Massy Street Childlren’s Hospital in Lagos Island, a big Children’s Hospital similar to our National Children’s Hospital in Quezon City.
I found out that Nigerian officers were very unsystematic. Processing of our papers were not even 25 % finished. My room mate, Dr. Cagampan was already posted to Ikeja General Hospital while my friend Boyet was already moved to Ikurvov Health Center. I didn’t know yet when I would be pulled out from the Guest House.
That night I hypnotized Mrs. Vinka Osuntola. She came to know about it after Dr. Romero told the Manager, Mr. Sam of the Guest House what he saw when I hypnotized Dr. W. Palomar, who only submitted after I hypnotized Dr. Bagao, Dr. Florescio and Dr. Cagampan.
I could feel that my stay in Nigeria would be interesting. I was beginning to enjoy my days.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
BARRIO GLIMPSES
BARRIOS AND BARANGAYS IN ALFONSO
In some municipalities in the Philippines the barrios are belittled, underestimated and even totally neglected. This is not so in Alfonso. Here the barrios are looked upon as the “backbone” of the town. Barrio folks are not shunned by the poblacion residents, but are generally treated as equal.
Barrios in Alfonso are peaceful and quiet. Residents know one another and therefore care for each other’s welfare. Jealousy between barrios doesn’t exist. Each barrio sticks to its own peculiarities. People preserve their own traditions and cultural heritages. The spirit of brotherhood and unity is felt everywhere. They cooperate with each other in all their activities. They work for their living but they don’t forget the value of recreation.
With the advent of drug addiction, however, many barrio youth were also victimized and the usual serenity and peace in every barrio has been disturbed. There are as of this writing nineteen Barrios making up twenty seven Barangays plus five from the Poblacion or a total of thirty two Barangays.
ORIGIN OF BARRIO NAMES
The progress of a community is based not only on the typical character of the town but more so because of its barrios. Like the body that has many parts which are all important, a community is composed also of many barrios, each of which has a direct influence in its culture and tradition, livelihood and even in the continuous progress of the whole town. Each barrio in Alfonso possesses a beautiful and unique name that evolved through different and interesting manner.
AMUYONG which was established on July 17, 1969 was named after a medicinal plant which was bitter in taste. Amuyong plant used to grow wildly in the area and how they completely disappeared, nobody knows.
BILOG, which was established not very long ago was formerly a Sitio of SINALIW NA MUNTI. So called BILOG, meaning rounded, simply because its boundary forms a rounded shape.
BUCK ESTATE was the name of its previous owner, Mr. Hammond Buck, an American who was the first Tenessee volunteer during the Spanish American war in 1898. He later joined the Thomasite Teachers. That was the time he came to the Philippines. He married Dolores Angles, the beautiful daughter of Lorenzo Angeles (Gobernadorcillo-1891-1893). It was also Mr. Buck who brought the Firewalkers of Alfonso to Australia in 1921. He also donated 6 hectares of land to Cavite National High School, which is presently the site of Montano Stadium in Cavite City. Barrio Buck Estate was established in June 1, 1962 and it is now the site of Rodeo Hills.
KAYSUYO which was established in March 6, 1986 was formerly a Sitio of Bo. Kaytitinga. According to the old woman who related to me the origin of the name, it came from two words: “KAY’, meaning belong to, and ‘SUYO’ which means to appease… referring to a person who always complains so he would be appeased. Exactly the unique characteristic of the owner of the place.
KAYTITINGA is now composed of three Barangays. It was formerly known as KAYHAPAY when it was established together with the poblacion in 1859. But in 1896 this was called MAINAM because when General Mariano Trias once visited the place he asked General Hipolito Rint how they were doing, and the latter answered “laging mainam” or always well.. But as noted by Jim Richardson: The true explanation is probably that given by Santiago Alvarez in his memoir "Ang Katipunan at Paghihimagsik", chapter 44:-
"Ang pook o nayong Titingga ay pinalitan ng tawag ng Pamunuang Hukbo at Pamunuang-Bayan ng "MAGDIWANG" at ipinalit ang ngalang "Mainam", upang maging walang kamatayang alaala ng "Mainam" na sagisag sa Katipunan ng AMA ng Himagsikan sa lalawigang Kabite, Kgg. MARIANO M. ALVAREZ; unang heneral ng Hukbo, mataas na Pangulo ng Pamahalaang Naghihimagsik (Magdiwang) at Director ng Fomento ng "Republika Filipinas", sa pagkatatag nito.
When and how MAINAM was changed to KAYTITINGA can no longer be traced as there is no known record about it. But they say this was taken from the word tingga (lead), a metal that is always cold. Perhaps it was because the place was always cold due to its proximity to Tagaytay.
ESPERANZA was formerly known as TIGAS when it was still a part of Pajo. It became a barrio proper during the time of Gobernadorcillo Roman Rosel in 1868. Rev. Fr. Jose Sta. Teresa suggested the name Esperanza. It is a Spanish word, which means HOPE. It is now divided into ILAYA (South) and IBABA (North).
The real name of Bo. LUKSUHIN is PANSIN because the place, being almost in level with Tagaytay is truly noticeable (Kapansin-pansin). No one lived there before due to the existence of several wild animals in the forested area. But people from Batangas started migrating to the place and soon others, coming from other places followed.
Later people called it LUKSUHIN due to a narrow brook where people jumps (lumulukso) in going to the other side when there was no bridge yet.
On April 11, 1985, LUKSUHIN ILAYA (Mataas na Pulo) was established separate from LUKSUHIN IBABA (Pansin).
Bo. MANGGAS was established during the time of Gobernadorcillo Lucio Credo in 1883. This barrio was directly connected to the poblacion and the reason it was called MANGGAS (Sleeve) was because that was how it was related to the main part of the cloth, connected only by the “palinta”.
It was during the time of Mayor Florencio Montenegro when MANGGAS ILAYA (Southern Part) was established separate from MANGGAS IBABA (Northern portion).
MATAGBAK was one of the first barrios established in 1859. Its name was taken from the name of the plant TAGBAK which used to grow in abundance in that area. Tagbak belongs to the ginger family. It is used as herbal medicine. MATAGBAK 2 refers to PUTOL (cut), so named because it used to be only a narrow street that was cut before it could enter Bo. Palumlum.
MARAHAN is as old as KAYTITINGA. This is directly adjacent to the poblacion on the western side. So named MARAHAN (slowly) because wherever one riding a horse came from, he must slow down when he arrives at the areas so as not to disturb the poblacion residents specially the guardia civil that time.
There is now MARAHAN 2 (BALUBAD). Balubad plant belongs to the cashew family that used to grow in that part of the old Marahan.
used to stand at the northeastern part of that barrio. Pajo is separated from the poblacion by a little brook called LITLITAN due to a vine with that name that used to grow around the river bank.
Bo. PALUMLUM was established on January 11, 1998. This was formerly a Sitio of Matagbak. Up to the time I am writing this I haven’t met someone who could give me a better explanation on how this barrio was so named. It is however, interesting to note how one resident presumed that the name probably was rooted in the word LILIM (shadow) brought about by many big shady trees in the place that offered wide area of “Palilim” specially during summer months. The word Palilim was eventually corrupted to its present name Palumlom. I could accept that.
Bo. PULYOK (Sta. Teresa) was formerly part of SINALIW NA MALAKI. It was called Pulyok because to reach the place one has to do a turn-around (LUMILIYOK). This is one of the newly established barrios. Also known as Bo. Sta. Teresa, after its Patroness, St. Therese of Avila.
MAYBALON was called this way because of a big well (Balon) in between Esperanze and Luksuhin that served as its landmark. It remained part of both barrios until Nov. 3, 1965 when it was formally established as a separate barrio that they called SIKAT (popular) as suggested by one influential resident. He argued that because for a long time they have been “buried” in the well, it was about time they should rise to popularity. There was a time when it was also called ANLUWAGE (Carpenter).
The word SINALIW started from the word SALYO (detour) because it was far from the main road then. It was therefore SINASALYO or SINASALIO for one to reach the place. When Tagalog words ending in “O’ but sounding as “W” were corrected, the word SINALIO became SINALIW.
On Nov. 8, 1960, when the Mayor was Angeles Hernais, Bo. Sinaliw was divide into 2 parts. SINALIW NA MALAKI (The Big Sinaliw) which was adjacent to Matagbak and SINALIW NA MUNTI (Little Sinaliw) which was adjacent to Kaytitinga. Later Bo. Pulyok or Sta. Teresa was separated from Sinaliw na Malaki.
On November 5, 1960, Bo. SULSUGIN was fully established. Its name was rooted from the word SULSUG (To walk to a more difficult but shorter pathway).
TAYWANAK IBABA (Taywanak Malayo) is the northern portion of Bo. KAKAWATIHAN, so called due to many “Kakawati” trees. It was so called MALAKING BAYAN (Big Town) because when it was cleared they realized that it was the meeting point of Indang, Maragondon, Alfonso and Bailen (now General Aguinaldo).
The word TAYWANAK originated from TAYWAN, a kind of plant that possibly came from Taiwan.
The old Taywanak was composed both of IBABA (Kakawatihan or Malaking Bayan or Taywanak Malayo) and ILAYA (The true Taywanak or Taywanak Malapit) until lately when the two were finally separated.
In 1945 one of the Sitios of Bo. PANSIN known as UPLI was established into a barrio proper. The word UPLI came from a specie of ASIS (a plant with coarse leaf surface commonly used in cleaning dishes) because of one big Asis tree that was its landmark then. Same place was also previously called HAWILIAN from Hawili plant and SWANGGI for unknown reason.
Varied and different are names of people, places and things and whatever is the name of whatever thing could change through a simple process. But “What is in a name?”, asked one writer. “A rose in any other name smells just as sweet”.
________________
ADDITIONAL BARRIO DATA:
1. KURAL (Manggas 2) was so called because of a former “Kural” (Stable) owned by a certain Vicenteng-Uray.
2. SARAY – a winding trail from Manggas to Esperanza was so called because walking through it tires one so much that at the end one almost gets dizzy going to different directions (PASURAY-SURAY).
3. KATUTAY – a sitio in Barrio Matagbak. Its name was coined from the word “KATUTAK” which means immeasurable extent, because it occupies a big area. (Isang KATUTAK ng luwang).
4. MATAAS NA PULO (Luksuhin 2) is self explanatory (elevated island).
5. PAGONG in Pajo is shaped like a turtle (pagong).
6. Other peculiar names with still unexplained origin:
BALIDBIRAN – part of the road between Marahan and Matagbak.
TAMAK – a site in Barrio Marahan.
BUNDAGOL – Also in Barrio Marahan.
KANTURIS – a trail from Manggas to Esperanza.
KATMON – a site in Pajo.
LOMANG MUNTI, LOMANG MALAKI, SANTUNISAN, PULONG INGGA, ANAGATLI. PALATUNGTUNGAN, IMUS NG SANGGALO, PANIKIHAN, MUSON, PINAG-INSIKAN, PASONG KABAYO, PASONG BABOY, PASONG KILING, PILIPIT, PINAGREALAN, IMUS NG KASTILA, IMPIYERNO, BIGTASIN, KALANGITAN, BALISONG, KAYTUHOD, BASAHAN, “BANGLADESH”, PINAGREGLAHAN, ETC.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
In some municipalities in the Philippines the barrios are belittled, underestimated and even totally neglected. This is not so in Alfonso. Here the barrios are looked upon as the “backbone” of the town. Barrio folks are not shunned by the poblacion residents, but are generally treated as equal.
Barrios in Alfonso are peaceful and quiet. Residents know one another and therefore care for each other’s welfare. Jealousy between barrios doesn’t exist. Each barrio sticks to its own peculiarities. People preserve their own traditions and cultural heritages. The spirit of brotherhood and unity is felt everywhere. They cooperate with each other in all their activities. They work for their living but they don’t forget the value of recreation.
With the advent of drug addiction, however, many barrio youth were also victimized and the usual serenity and peace in every barrio has been disturbed. There are as of this writing nineteen Barrios making up twenty seven Barangays plus five from the Poblacion or a total of thirty two Barangays.
ORIGIN OF BARRIO NAMES
The progress of a community is based not only on the typical character of the town but more so because of its barrios. Like the body that has many parts which are all important, a community is composed also of many barrios, each of which has a direct influence in its culture and tradition, livelihood and even in the continuous progress of the whole town. Each barrio in Alfonso possesses a beautiful and unique name that evolved through different and interesting manner.
AMUYONG which was established on July 17, 1969 was named after a medicinal plant which was bitter in taste. Amuyong plant used to grow wildly in the area and how they completely disappeared, nobody knows.
BILOG, which was established not very long ago was formerly a Sitio of SINALIW NA MUNTI. So called BILOG, meaning rounded, simply because its boundary forms a rounded shape.
BUCK ESTATE was the name of its previous owner, Mr. Hammond Buck, an American who was the first Tenessee volunteer during the Spanish American war in 1898. He later joined the Thomasite Teachers. That was the time he came to the Philippines. He married Dolores Angles, the beautiful daughter of Lorenzo Angeles (Gobernadorcillo-1891-1893). It was also Mr. Buck who brought the Firewalkers of Alfonso to Australia in 1921. He also donated 6 hectares of land to Cavite National High School, which is presently the site of Montano Stadium in Cavite City. Barrio Buck Estate was established in June 1, 1962 and it is now the site of Rodeo Hills.
KAYSUYO which was established in March 6, 1986 was formerly a Sitio of Bo. Kaytitinga. According to the old woman who related to me the origin of the name, it came from two words: “KAY’, meaning belong to, and ‘SUYO’ which means to appease… referring to a person who always complains so he would be appeased. Exactly the unique characteristic of the owner of the place.
KAYTITINGA is now composed of three Barangays. It was formerly known as KAYHAPAY when it was established together with the poblacion in 1859. But in 1896 this was called MAINAM because when General Mariano Trias once visited the place he asked General Hipolito Rint how they were doing, and the latter answered “laging mainam” or always well.. But as noted by Jim Richardson: The true explanation is probably that given by Santiago Alvarez in his memoir "Ang Katipunan at Paghihimagsik", chapter 44:-
"Ang pook o nayong Titingga ay pinalitan ng tawag ng Pamunuang Hukbo at Pamunuang-Bayan ng "MAGDIWANG" at ipinalit ang ngalang "Mainam", upang maging walang kamatayang alaala ng "Mainam" na sagisag sa Katipunan ng AMA ng Himagsikan sa lalawigang Kabite, Kgg. MARIANO M. ALVAREZ; unang heneral ng Hukbo, mataas na Pangulo ng Pamahalaang Naghihimagsik (Magdiwang) at Director ng Fomento ng "Republika Filipinas", sa pagkatatag nito.
When and how MAINAM was changed to KAYTITINGA can no longer be traced as there is no known record about it. But they say this was taken from the word tingga (lead), a metal that is always cold. Perhaps it was because the place was always cold due to its proximity to Tagaytay.
ESPERANZA was formerly known as TIGAS when it was still a part of Pajo. It became a barrio proper during the time of Gobernadorcillo Roman Rosel in 1868. Rev. Fr. Jose Sta. Teresa suggested the name Esperanza. It is a Spanish word, which means HOPE. It is now divided into ILAYA (South) and IBABA (North).
The real name of Bo. LUKSUHIN is PANSIN because the place, being almost in level with Tagaytay is truly noticeable (Kapansin-pansin). No one lived there before due to the existence of several wild animals in the forested area. But people from Batangas started migrating to the place and soon others, coming from other places followed.
Later people called it LUKSUHIN due to a narrow brook where people jumps (lumulukso) in going to the other side when there was no bridge yet.
On April 11, 1985, LUKSUHIN ILAYA (Mataas na Pulo) was established separate from LUKSUHIN IBABA (Pansin).
Bo. MANGGAS was established during the time of Gobernadorcillo Lucio Credo in 1883. This barrio was directly connected to the poblacion and the reason it was called MANGGAS (Sleeve) was because that was how it was related to the main part of the cloth, connected only by the “palinta”.
It was during the time of Mayor Florencio Montenegro when MANGGAS ILAYA (Southern Part) was established separate from MANGGAS IBABA (Northern portion).
MATAGBAK was one of the first barrios established in 1859. Its name was taken from the name of the plant TAGBAK which used to grow in abundance in that area. Tagbak belongs to the ginger family. It is used as herbal medicine. MATAGBAK 2 refers to PUTOL (cut), so named because it used to be only a narrow street that was cut before it could enter Bo. Palumlum.
MARAHAN is as old as KAYTITINGA. This is directly adjacent to the poblacion on the western side. So named MARAHAN (slowly) because wherever one riding a horse came from, he must slow down when he arrives at the areas so as not to disturb the poblacion residents specially the guardia civil that time.
There is now MARAHAN 2 (BALUBAD). Balubad plant belongs to the cashew family that used to grow in that part of the old Marahan.
used to stand at the northeastern part of that barrio. Pajo is separated from the poblacion by a little brook called LITLITAN due to a vine with that name that used to grow around the river bank.
Bo. PALUMLUM was established on January 11, 1998. This was formerly a Sitio of Matagbak. Up to the time I am writing this I haven’t met someone who could give me a better explanation on how this barrio was so named. It is however, interesting to note how one resident presumed that the name probably was rooted in the word LILIM (shadow) brought about by many big shady trees in the place that offered wide area of “Palilim” specially during summer months. The word Palilim was eventually corrupted to its present name Palumlom. I could accept that.
Bo. PULYOK (Sta. Teresa) was formerly part of SINALIW NA MALAKI. It was called Pulyok because to reach the place one has to do a turn-around (LUMILIYOK). This is one of the newly established barrios. Also known as Bo. Sta. Teresa, after its Patroness, St. Therese of Avila.
MAYBALON was called this way because of a big well (Balon) in between Esperanze and Luksuhin that served as its landmark. It remained part of both barrios until Nov. 3, 1965 when it was formally established as a separate barrio that they called SIKAT (popular) as suggested by one influential resident. He argued that because for a long time they have been “buried” in the well, it was about time they should rise to popularity. There was a time when it was also called ANLUWAGE (Carpenter).
The word SINALIW started from the word SALYO (detour) because it was far from the main road then. It was therefore SINASALYO or SINASALIO for one to reach the place. When Tagalog words ending in “O’ but sounding as “W” were corrected, the word SINALIO became SINALIW.
On Nov. 8, 1960, when the Mayor was Angeles Hernais, Bo. Sinaliw was divide into 2 parts. SINALIW NA MALAKI (The Big Sinaliw) which was adjacent to Matagbak and SINALIW NA MUNTI (Little Sinaliw) which was adjacent to Kaytitinga. Later Bo. Pulyok or Sta. Teresa was separated from Sinaliw na Malaki.
On November 5, 1960, Bo. SULSUGIN was fully established. Its name was rooted from the word SULSUG (To walk to a more difficult but shorter pathway).
TAYWANAK IBABA (Taywanak Malayo) is the northern portion of Bo. KAKAWATIHAN, so called due to many “Kakawati” trees. It was so called MALAKING BAYAN (Big Town) because when it was cleared they realized that it was the meeting point of Indang, Maragondon, Alfonso and Bailen (now General Aguinaldo).
The word TAYWANAK originated from TAYWAN, a kind of plant that possibly came from Taiwan.
The old Taywanak was composed both of IBABA (Kakawatihan or Malaking Bayan or Taywanak Malayo) and ILAYA (The true Taywanak or Taywanak Malapit) until lately when the two were finally separated.
In 1945 one of the Sitios of Bo. PANSIN known as UPLI was established into a barrio proper. The word UPLI came from a specie of ASIS (a plant with coarse leaf surface commonly used in cleaning dishes) because of one big Asis tree that was its landmark then. Same place was also previously called HAWILIAN from Hawili plant and SWANGGI for unknown reason.
Varied and different are names of people, places and things and whatever is the name of whatever thing could change through a simple process. But “What is in a name?”, asked one writer. “A rose in any other name smells just as sweet”.
________________
ADDITIONAL BARRIO DATA:
1. KURAL (Manggas 2) was so called because of a former “Kural” (Stable) owned by a certain Vicenteng-Uray.
2. SARAY – a winding trail from Manggas to Esperanza was so called because walking through it tires one so much that at the end one almost gets dizzy going to different directions (PASURAY-SURAY).
3. KATUTAY – a sitio in Barrio Matagbak. Its name was coined from the word “KATUTAK” which means immeasurable extent, because it occupies a big area. (Isang KATUTAK ng luwang).
4. MATAAS NA PULO (Luksuhin 2) is self explanatory (elevated island).
5. PAGONG in Pajo is shaped like a turtle (pagong).
6. Other peculiar names with still unexplained origin:
BALIDBIRAN – part of the road between Marahan and Matagbak.
TAMAK – a site in Barrio Marahan.
BUNDAGOL – Also in Barrio Marahan.
KANTURIS – a trail from Manggas to Esperanza.
KATMON – a site in Pajo.
LOMANG MUNTI, LOMANG MALAKI, SANTUNISAN, PULONG INGGA, ANAGATLI. PALATUNGTUNGAN, IMUS NG SANGGALO, PANIKIHAN, MUSON, PINAG-INSIKAN, PASONG KABAYO, PASONG BABOY, PASONG KILING, PILIPIT, PINAGREALAN, IMUS NG KASTILA, IMPIYERNO, BIGTASIN, KALANGITAN, BALISONG, KAYTUHOD, BASAHAN, “BANGLADESH”, PINAGREGLAHAN, ETC.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
Friday, June 20, 2008
TWO DAYS IN PARIS
TWO DAYS IN PAR IS
Excerpts from My Nigerian Diary
This happened a long, long time ago when I joined 95 other Doctors to work in Nigeria. That was the time when Nigeria was booming.
It was my first air plane experience, an abnormal flight that had to pass-by Paris before proceeding to Nigeria. We left Manila International Airport via Air France at 3:00 p.m. on August 8, 1978 (8-8-8). The triple 8 was considered a lucky combination. I was sent off by about 50 persons consisting of the hospital staff and personnel who were not on duty; my brothers and sisters; my neighbors and friends and my family with my youngest who was only one year old. I was deeply touched.
I considered it as my first good luck when I was seated beside the window – but not so fortunate indeed as the window was just above the big left wing of the plane that covered 75% of the outside view – better than no window at all.
Seated immediately to my right was Dr. Delfin T. Cagampan, Jr., a Dermatologist assigned to Sokoto State (he later became my Hotel mate too). To his right was Dra. Ofelia Almanzor-Craeg. The name rung because I recalled my second cousin Angel Orosa used to tell me about her when she was still single.
Upon arrival in Paris we were immediately transported to the Meridien Hotel where we were billeted. It was 9:35 a.m., Paris time the following day. After lunch I went sightseeing with Doctors Delfin Cagampan, Pedro B. Rivera and Pedro Florescio, Jr. We came close to the Ark of Triumph, had some pictures taken then went around window shopping. I sent air mail to my wife and some cards to friends.
After dinner I went to see a movie at Cinema 2 at Les Boutique du Palais dus Congres just across the hotel. The show was Goodbye Emmanuelle, a very pornographic presentation following Filipino standards. Before going to bed I wrote more letters on postcards.
The following day I went around with Boyet ( Dr. Pedro Florescio, Jr.). I bought some Paris souvenirs: A pendant for my wife, A ball pen for my eldest son and a bracelet each for my three daughters. I didn’t buy any for my youngest son as it was difficult to find one appropriate for him.
We tried a snack at a roadside Café where a cup of tea was charged $3.00.
In the afternoon we joined a guided tour of Paris City aboard Cityrama with narrations through Simultan earphones. Talking about Paris was like talking about an abstract painting – the more you described it the more it confused – but Paris was beautiful as it was also fantastic and wonderful. It was in Paris where I saw all kinds of people – from the blackest to the whitest and all the colors in between; from the prettiest to the ugliest; from the sinner to the divine.
Paris was everything: Churches and antique shops; bridges and map stands; subways and intersections; sidewalk eateries and cinemas; doves and ferry boats; beauties and pornographies. In Paris one can wear anything. There seemed to be no fashion trend at all. Every one was simply at home with what he or she was wearing.
There were benches all around but no handwritings on the walls. Paris looked clean and smelled clean. Even dogs looked clean with their owners behind them who sometimes looked dirtier. But in Paris everything was expensive: Coke was $1.60’ Coffee was $2.00, Tea was $3:00. You can imagine the rest of the items.
But Paris was truly "walang kaparis" especially when you had the chance to visit the more than 2000 years old Plaza de la Concorde by Gabriel, the Square of King Lowie V, the Palace of King Lowie XIV, of King Henry IV and of Napoleon Bonafarte. What more will you ask if you have visited the Cathedral where Napoleon Bonfarte crowned himself and the place where Marie Antoinette walked before she was beheaded. Would you care for more after seeing and touching the Ark of Triumph and the Eiffel Tower? No, not anymore when you have seen the items at Les Boutique du Palais des Congres or if you have posed for a picture with a pretty teenage French and an equally petite German girl after having entered the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. And all those things were courtesy of an abnormal flight and the magic vibrations of triple 8.
Excerpts from My Nigerian Diary
This happened a long, long time ago when I joined 95 other Doctors to work in Nigeria. That was the time when Nigeria was booming.
It was my first air plane experience, an abnormal flight that had to pass-by Paris before proceeding to Nigeria. We left Manila International Airport via Air France at 3:00 p.m. on August 8, 1978 (8-8-8). The triple 8 was considered a lucky combination. I was sent off by about 50 persons consisting of the hospital staff and personnel who were not on duty; my brothers and sisters; my neighbors and friends and my family with my youngest who was only one year old. I was deeply touched.
I considered it as my first good luck when I was seated beside the window – but not so fortunate indeed as the window was just above the big left wing of the plane that covered 75% of the outside view – better than no window at all.
Seated immediately to my right was Dr. Delfin T. Cagampan, Jr., a Dermatologist assigned to Sokoto State (he later became my Hotel mate too). To his right was Dra. Ofelia Almanzor-Craeg. The name rung because I recalled my second cousin Angel Orosa used to tell me about her when she was still single.
Upon arrival in Paris we were immediately transported to the Meridien Hotel where we were billeted. It was 9:35 a.m., Paris time the following day. After lunch I went sightseeing with Doctors Delfin Cagampan, Pedro B. Rivera and Pedro Florescio, Jr. We came close to the Ark of Triumph, had some pictures taken then went around window shopping. I sent air mail to my wife and some cards to friends.
After dinner I went to see a movie at Cinema 2 at Les Boutique du Palais dus Congres just across the hotel. The show was Goodbye Emmanuelle, a very pornographic presentation following Filipino standards. Before going to bed I wrote more letters on postcards.
The following day I went around with Boyet ( Dr. Pedro Florescio, Jr.). I bought some Paris souvenirs: A pendant for my wife, A ball pen for my eldest son and a bracelet each for my three daughters. I didn’t buy any for my youngest son as it was difficult to find one appropriate for him.
We tried a snack at a roadside Café where a cup of tea was charged $3.00.
In the afternoon we joined a guided tour of Paris City aboard Cityrama with narrations through Simultan earphones. Talking about Paris was like talking about an abstract painting – the more you described it the more it confused – but Paris was beautiful as it was also fantastic and wonderful. It was in Paris where I saw all kinds of people – from the blackest to the whitest and all the colors in between; from the prettiest to the ugliest; from the sinner to the divine.
Paris was everything: Churches and antique shops; bridges and map stands; subways and intersections; sidewalk eateries and cinemas; doves and ferry boats; beauties and pornographies. In Paris one can wear anything. There seemed to be no fashion trend at all. Every one was simply at home with what he or she was wearing.
There were benches all around but no handwritings on the walls. Paris looked clean and smelled clean. Even dogs looked clean with their owners behind them who sometimes looked dirtier. But in Paris everything was expensive: Coke was $1.60’ Coffee was $2.00, Tea was $3:00. You can imagine the rest of the items.
But Paris was truly "walang kaparis" especially when you had the chance to visit the more than 2000 years old Plaza de la Concorde by Gabriel, the Square of King Lowie V, the Palace of King Lowie XIV, of King Henry IV and of Napoleon Bonafarte. What more will you ask if you have visited the Cathedral where Napoleon Bonfarte crowned himself and the place where Marie Antoinette walked before she was beheaded. Would you care for more after seeing and touching the Ark of Triumph and the Eiffel Tower? No, not anymore when you have seen the items at Les Boutique du Palais des Congres or if you have posed for a picture with a pretty teenage French and an equally petite German girl after having entered the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. And all those things were courtesy of an abnormal flight and the magic vibrations of triple 8.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
GONE WERE THE HELPERS
GONE WERE THE HELPERS
Having been successful in discharging some of my less performing helpers I was left at last with only two: My gardener and my all-around errand boy. The errand boy had to move to the farm to take over the place of the last farmer who just left. Everything was in perfect perspective that at last I was able to make a genuine sigh of relief.
Came night time the “new” farmer texted me saying that he had no light and that he was the only one in the vicinity without light. I suspected that it was a simple fuse problem but since he didn’t know electrical trouble-shooting and since he was far from the nearest neighbor I have to send my gardener to assist him.
Now I was left alone which was ok with me as I was used to being alone on many occasions. I sat comfortably to watch T.V. shows while folding pieces of paper to make origami cubes that I later put in clear glasses. This was my way of whiling away the time. I pampered myself with brewed coffee and some crunchy cookies.
I have been accustomed to this kind of life and I was not complaining. During commercial breaks I reviewed my ‘Nigerian Diary’ which I found to be thrillingly interesting. Now I found new thing to make myself busy. I shall transfer excerpts from this diary to my flash disc for posterity.
I was not saddened by these experiences; in fact it was only now I fully realized that aging actually was not a limiting situation in life. Aging could be a source of magnificent inspirations if one knew how to play the game rightfully. Very few senior citizens could find joy in isolation. And before I finished jotting this note for my blog spot my gardener was back while the TV show I was watching was still ongoing.
Having been successful in discharging some of my less performing helpers I was left at last with only two: My gardener and my all-around errand boy. The errand boy had to move to the farm to take over the place of the last farmer who just left. Everything was in perfect perspective that at last I was able to make a genuine sigh of relief.
Came night time the “new” farmer texted me saying that he had no light and that he was the only one in the vicinity without light. I suspected that it was a simple fuse problem but since he didn’t know electrical trouble-shooting and since he was far from the nearest neighbor I have to send my gardener to assist him.
Now I was left alone which was ok with me as I was used to being alone on many occasions. I sat comfortably to watch T.V. shows while folding pieces of paper to make origami cubes that I later put in clear glasses. This was my way of whiling away the time. I pampered myself with brewed coffee and some crunchy cookies.
I have been accustomed to this kind of life and I was not complaining. During commercial breaks I reviewed my ‘Nigerian Diary’ which I found to be thrillingly interesting. Now I found new thing to make myself busy. I shall transfer excerpts from this diary to my flash disc for posterity.
I was not saddened by these experiences; in fact it was only now I fully realized that aging actually was not a limiting situation in life. Aging could be a source of magnificent inspirations if one knew how to play the game rightfully. Very few senior citizens could find joy in isolation. And before I finished jotting this note for my blog spot my gardener was back while the TV show I was watching was still ongoing.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
ERUPTION OF TAAL VOLCANO
1911 ERUPTION OF TAAL VOLCANO
When Taal Volcano erupted in 1911, many children together with their parents were in the “Sabungan” enjoying a “Sirko”.
The eruption was preceded by strong earthquakes which greatly scared the people. Old women prayed. They thought it was the end of the world.
The following morning, all plants were covered with ashes. The whole town was white. Many plants died because of the hot ashes that covered them, but later, the soil turned very fertile. The 1965 eruption was relatively mild.
The Sept. 28, 1965 Eruption of Taal Volcano
It was early dawn when I was awakened by deafening sounds of thunder, with alternating lightning, so blinding that I thought the whole town was on fire. After a while I went back to sleep thinking that it was only due to bad weather.
A few minutes passed and I heard the hooting of Dr. Poblete’s car. I quickly stood up, suddenly reminded of our plan to go to Manila that day. He excitedly told me to dress hurriedly so we could watch the eruption of Taal Volcano. Realizing that the thunder and lightning was coming from the angry volcano I suddenly got so confused that I didn’t know what to do.
We rushed to Tagaytgay to watch the volcano at the height of its fury. From our position at the edge of the ridge we could clearly see the black smoke coming out of the volcano’s mouth, alternated by thunder and lightning.
Watching from above an erupting volcano was one experience I could never forget. Mud and ashes were blown by strong winds towards Batangas. Unlike during its 1911 eruption when, according to old folks, mud and ashes reached up to the town of Alfonso that caused the death of many plants.
Dr. Poblete and I proceeded to Manila anyway. Along Tagaytay highway we saw and encountered many evacuees coming from areas around the volcano.
They were pictures of fear and fatigue hurrying in their attempt to escape away from the killer fire and the nauseating smell of sulfur which was all over Tagaytay City.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
When Taal Volcano erupted in 1911, many children together with their parents were in the “Sabungan” enjoying a “Sirko”.
The eruption was preceded by strong earthquakes which greatly scared the people. Old women prayed. They thought it was the end of the world.
The following morning, all plants were covered with ashes. The whole town was white. Many plants died because of the hot ashes that covered them, but later, the soil turned very fertile. The 1965 eruption was relatively mild.
The Sept. 28, 1965 Eruption of Taal Volcano
It was early dawn when I was awakened by deafening sounds of thunder, with alternating lightning, so blinding that I thought the whole town was on fire. After a while I went back to sleep thinking that it was only due to bad weather.
A few minutes passed and I heard the hooting of Dr. Poblete’s car. I quickly stood up, suddenly reminded of our plan to go to Manila that day. He excitedly told me to dress hurriedly so we could watch the eruption of Taal Volcano. Realizing that the thunder and lightning was coming from the angry volcano I suddenly got so confused that I didn’t know what to do.
We rushed to Tagaytgay to watch the volcano at the height of its fury. From our position at the edge of the ridge we could clearly see the black smoke coming out of the volcano’s mouth, alternated by thunder and lightning.
Watching from above an erupting volcano was one experience I could never forget. Mud and ashes were blown by strong winds towards Batangas. Unlike during its 1911 eruption when, according to old folks, mud and ashes reached up to the town of Alfonso that caused the death of many plants.
Dr. Poblete and I proceeded to Manila anyway. Along Tagaytay highway we saw and encountered many evacuees coming from areas around the volcano.
They were pictures of fear and fatigue hurrying in their attempt to escape away from the killer fire and the nauseating smell of sulfur which was all over Tagaytay City.
From the book TINGKORAW: Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Alfonso at a Glance
Alfonso at a Glance
At the upland border of Cavite, lies the small developing town of Alfonso with a land area of 6,988 hectares. The 1996 statistics places the population at 34, 713. It has a total of 32 Barangays including five in the Poblacion. The 27 Barangays outside the Poblacion are all agriculturally centered though there are now scattered newly developed subdivisions here and there. Cut flower farming is becoming a trend nowadays.
Despite its proximity to Manila, it is still unmistakably rural; the reason why it is has become a haven for retirees who are building rest houses all around. Alfonso has not yet been invaded too much by people migrating from other provinces and because of this, almost everyone knows everyone, thus somehow maintaining peace, hospitality and unity. If not for the threat of the drug menace, Alfonso would be a paradise.
The Legend of Alas-as
Once upon a time there was a beautiful mountain full of wild trees and various kinds of wild animals. In this mountain, no human being lived. It was a virgin place, a pretty show window of God’s grace.
One happy bright morning a brave hunter chanced to see the lovely place. How he got inside, he did not know nor did he care to know, for he was greatly attracted by the place. He did not want to leave so he stayed overnight.
While he was fast asleep, a very charming young lady approached him. She held a cute oblong white seed that looked like a giant pearl. She instructed him to plant the seed in the area then vanished. When he woke up in the morning he realized that he had been dreaming, but to his astonishment, the oblong white pearl-like seed was there, clasped in his right hand. Now knowing what to do he decided to plant the seed before he went home.
Years later the hunter thought of the seed he planted. He went back to the place to find out what happened. To his surprise, he saw a tall healthy tree bearing very sweet fruit. Back at his hut he told his wife and children about it. Then he decided to transfer his hut near the big lovely tree.
The fruit of the tree was so sweet that it was considered a gift of God, who was then called “Allah”. So then man called the tree “Allah”, meaning God, and his family idolized it. His young child who was just learning to talk that time called the tree “alas” each time he asked for a bite of the God-given fruit.
One day the child was very eager to have a bite of the fruit. He pleaded to his father to give him “alas-as, alas-as,” and continued crying. Since then the first family in the locality called it “alas-as.” Other hunters heard about the tree. They transferred to the place, which they named Alas-as in honor of the tree which attracted them. It was that way for many, many years until it became a part of Indang. The name “ALAS-AS” was only changed to ALFONSO in 1859 when the former Barrio of Indang was made a town. Alfonso was the name chosen to honor the king of Spain, King Alfonso XII.
To this day, the name “alas-as” is still very fresh in the minds of the people of Alfonso. Two entities stand today to remind the Alfonso folk of the tree, Alas-as street and a stream called “Ilog Alas-as”. The legendary Alas-as tree grew up near this rivulet, which still flows nearby. How the Alas-as tree disappeared is another interesting legend.
Alas-as Tree Vanished One Night
When the fruit of Alas-as became famous among hunters, they did not only come around but they also started cutting its branches and picking its young fruits until it was badly damaged.
The “lady” became angry. One cloudy night, lightning accompanied by deafening thunder burned the tree. The people who were awakened by the thunder saw the “lady” wearing black, crying near the site of the alas-as tree which was turned into ashes.
Eversince no other alas-as tree grew up anywhere. What Botanist now called alas-as is something like pandan (a shrub)
________
Old records show that Alfonso was named after King Alfonso XIII which is impossible since Alfonso was established in 1859 while King Alfonso XIII was born only in 1886, a disparity of 27 years. So, Alfonso must have been named after King Alfonso XII.
From the b ook TINGKORAW: Allfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
At the upland border of Cavite, lies the small developing town of Alfonso with a land area of 6,988 hectares. The 1996 statistics places the population at 34, 713. It has a total of 32 Barangays including five in the Poblacion. The 27 Barangays outside the Poblacion are all agriculturally centered though there are now scattered newly developed subdivisions here and there. Cut flower farming is becoming a trend nowadays.
Despite its proximity to Manila, it is still unmistakably rural; the reason why it is has become a haven for retirees who are building rest houses all around. Alfonso has not yet been invaded too much by people migrating from other provinces and because of this, almost everyone knows everyone, thus somehow maintaining peace, hospitality and unity. If not for the threat of the drug menace, Alfonso would be a paradise.
The Legend of Alas-as
Once upon a time there was a beautiful mountain full of wild trees and various kinds of wild animals. In this mountain, no human being lived. It was a virgin place, a pretty show window of God’s grace.
One happy bright morning a brave hunter chanced to see the lovely place. How he got inside, he did not know nor did he care to know, for he was greatly attracted by the place. He did not want to leave so he stayed overnight.
While he was fast asleep, a very charming young lady approached him. She held a cute oblong white seed that looked like a giant pearl. She instructed him to plant the seed in the area then vanished. When he woke up in the morning he realized that he had been dreaming, but to his astonishment, the oblong white pearl-like seed was there, clasped in his right hand. Now knowing what to do he decided to plant the seed before he went home.
Years later the hunter thought of the seed he planted. He went back to the place to find out what happened. To his surprise, he saw a tall healthy tree bearing very sweet fruit. Back at his hut he told his wife and children about it. Then he decided to transfer his hut near the big lovely tree.
The fruit of the tree was so sweet that it was considered a gift of God, who was then called “Allah”. So then man called the tree “Allah”, meaning God, and his family idolized it. His young child who was just learning to talk that time called the tree “alas” each time he asked for a bite of the God-given fruit.
One day the child was very eager to have a bite of the fruit. He pleaded to his father to give him “alas-as, alas-as,” and continued crying. Since then the first family in the locality called it “alas-as.” Other hunters heard about the tree. They transferred to the place, which they named Alas-as in honor of the tree which attracted them. It was that way for many, many years until it became a part of Indang. The name “ALAS-AS” was only changed to ALFONSO in 1859 when the former Barrio of Indang was made a town. Alfonso was the name chosen to honor the king of Spain, King Alfonso XII.
To this day, the name “alas-as” is still very fresh in the minds of the people of Alfonso. Two entities stand today to remind the Alfonso folk of the tree, Alas-as street and a stream called “Ilog Alas-as”. The legendary Alas-as tree grew up near this rivulet, which still flows nearby. How the Alas-as tree disappeared is another interesting legend.
Alas-as Tree Vanished One Night
When the fruit of Alas-as became famous among hunters, they did not only come around but they also started cutting its branches and picking its young fruits until it was badly damaged.
The “lady” became angry. One cloudy night, lightning accompanied by deafening thunder burned the tree. The people who were awakened by the thunder saw the “lady” wearing black, crying near the site of the alas-as tree which was turned into ashes.
Eversince no other alas-as tree grew up anywhere. What Botanist now called alas-as is something like pandan (a shrub)
________
Old records show that Alfonso was named after King Alfonso XIII which is impossible since Alfonso was established in 1859 while King Alfonso XIII was born only in 1886, a disparity of 27 years. So, Alfonso must have been named after King Alfonso XII.
From the b ook TINGKORAW: Allfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
"Uwak..." Says the Crow (Happy Father's Day)
“UWAK…” SAYS THE CROW…
In the elementary grades I learned a song that says: “A friendly crow and a hawk sail to the skies…”Uwak…” says the crow, meaning, “we are flying high”
Hawks, Eagles and Crows are supposed to fly high in the skies to see a wider panorama while searching for their prey.
I have a pair of crows caught by my farmer when newly hatched. They were fed by my helpers until they learned how to fly. They became so used and adjusted to our environment that they just stay within our premises. They learned to eat fruits and other food, far from the chicks that they were genetically trained to catch and swallow as food.
They shout “Uwak” when they are hungry, afraid, happy or when strangers enter our gate. They are not colorful for they are black all over. They utter nothing but “Uwak…Uwak…!!!”, yet they are bringing a lot of cheers and joy everyday.
A bird need not be ‘talkative’ like the parrot and the mina, colorful like the oriole or romantic like the love birds to be able to bring about happiness. All a bird needs to be is be itself no matter how simple and lowly it looks. ”Uwak” can mean many things: It is a friendly good morning on waking up; a request for food when hungry; a greeting of hello to visitors; or a warm thank you when gratified. Whatever it means the sound “Uwak” makes me feel good. The couple of crows in our garden, black as they are, bring colors to our plants. Their solitary quaking sound is the sweet symphony that greeted me Happy Father’s Day this morning on my way to hear the Mass.
“Of course…!!!” I responded to a friend who, instead of greeting me Happy Father’s Day, teasingly asked: “Happy Father???” Happiness is relative. Different fathers have different reasons to be happy as different fathers have different roles to play.
Happiness is a subjective feeling, not just an objective behavior that indicates mirth. Any father who has been successful in pursuing his role in life should be happy, not only on Father’s Day but anytime of the year.
Some fathers use their physical strength to excel in their endeavors but there are fathers who use their intellectual capabilities to do many good things. A few fathers depend on their mind power to achieve and to be of help to others. At any rate fathers should be thankful that society is acknowledging the role of father on this special day. Look! Even the black crows know what I mean.
In the elementary grades I learned a song that says: “A friendly crow and a hawk sail to the skies…”Uwak…” says the crow, meaning, “we are flying high”
Hawks, Eagles and Crows are supposed to fly high in the skies to see a wider panorama while searching for their prey.
I have a pair of crows caught by my farmer when newly hatched. They were fed by my helpers until they learned how to fly. They became so used and adjusted to our environment that they just stay within our premises. They learned to eat fruits and other food, far from the chicks that they were genetically trained to catch and swallow as food.
They shout “Uwak” when they are hungry, afraid, happy or when strangers enter our gate. They are not colorful for they are black all over. They utter nothing but “Uwak…Uwak…!!!”, yet they are bringing a lot of cheers and joy everyday.
A bird need not be ‘talkative’ like the parrot and the mina, colorful like the oriole or romantic like the love birds to be able to bring about happiness. All a bird needs to be is be itself no matter how simple and lowly it looks. ”Uwak” can mean many things: It is a friendly good morning on waking up; a request for food when hungry; a greeting of hello to visitors; or a warm thank you when gratified. Whatever it means the sound “Uwak” makes me feel good. The couple of crows in our garden, black as they are, bring colors to our plants. Their solitary quaking sound is the sweet symphony that greeted me Happy Father’s Day this morning on my way to hear the Mass.
“Of course…!!!” I responded to a friend who, instead of greeting me Happy Father’s Day, teasingly asked: “Happy Father???” Happiness is relative. Different fathers have different reasons to be happy as different fathers have different roles to play.
Happiness is a subjective feeling, not just an objective behavior that indicates mirth. Any father who has been successful in pursuing his role in life should be happy, not only on Father’s Day but anytime of the year.
Some fathers use their physical strength to excel in their endeavors but there are fathers who use their intellectual capabilities to do many good things. A few fathers depend on their mind power to achieve and to be of help to others. At any rate fathers should be thankful that society is acknowledging the role of father on this special day. Look! Even the black crows know what I mean.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Tribute to a Father
MY MOTHER’S HUSBAND (A tribute to my father on Father's Day)
A very simple man, he could have been a sculptor or an architect had he been given a better chance. But that was the order of the time among his folks---attain an elementary education and that was all.
He married an equally simple woman with more simple taste in life. Easily, he became a father of ten siblings. I happened to be the youngest. Thank God, family planning wasn’t yet common practice that time.
For as long as I live, his memories will linger in my mind in a manner entirely different from the way other children will remember their father.
With feelings of guilt I now recall his death while I was in Nigeria, Africa. He was already sick when I went there and so I said I was just attending a medical conference. Before he died he told someone that I “lied to him”.
But I am glad he didn’t suffer long. He died with dignity typically his own. All his life he resented cheating and opportunism. In all his work — and he could do many things — he was always honest and sincere.
He was a carpenter and a self-made "architect” of sort. The house where I was born was built by him. He was the FIRST IN TOWN to use straight posts with cement foundation.
During the Japanese time he invented a cigarette-maker, a coconut milk-extractor (HAPITAN), a corn-grinder that also mechanically moved a giant fan, and assorted toys which we, and other children, fully enjoyed.
I will never forget his “fighting wind vane” atop our asis tree and his toys made of bayugo (the fruit of gugo). He had a trap for catching monkeys (PARUKUT), another one for catching wild cats (musang and alamid) which is called PAKWIS, a different one to catch birds (BANTAY), and still another to catch rats, he called this BANGKULONG.
His stories were perfect lullabies repeated almost every night at bedtime. He had a way of waking us in the morning by pulling our hands up while saying: “Haba-haba, laki, taba!”.
He was a veteran of World War II and a very good wartime father. Because of him my memories of war were nothing but fun and playful adventures. He was a practical catholic and a very understanding husband. He shunned controversies and heated arguments but he worked very diligently. In our small community he was the PIONEER of BALUSTERS, HOLLOW BLOCKS, DECORATED STAIRWAYS and TOMBS, not to mention coffin COVERED WITH GLASS opening enough to show the face of the corpse.
He used to take a bath at the nearby brook every morning, then carried home one hard stone (BATONG BUHAY) each time. He picked buttons, nails and anything of possible future use, along the way, together with coins and other valuables.
Most of all he was a musician, a clarinet soloist. He loved to join picnics, excursions and enjoyed carnivals. In his diary he had a vivid description of the first automobile that came to town, and like most people who keep a diary, he was very orderly.
He was a very different father but I would not exchange him for anyone in spite of his shortcomings which were few and acceptable. My father, GAUDENCIO VARIAS AVIÑANTE was the son of Fernando Aviñante and Juanita Varias.
I know this is much too late but I want to greet you Happy Father's Day!
A very simple man, he could have been a sculptor or an architect had he been given a better chance. But that was the order of the time among his folks---attain an elementary education and that was all.
He married an equally simple woman with more simple taste in life. Easily, he became a father of ten siblings. I happened to be the youngest. Thank God, family planning wasn’t yet common practice that time.
For as long as I live, his memories will linger in my mind in a manner entirely different from the way other children will remember their father.
With feelings of guilt I now recall his death while I was in Nigeria, Africa. He was already sick when I went there and so I said I was just attending a medical conference. Before he died he told someone that I “lied to him”.
But I am glad he didn’t suffer long. He died with dignity typically his own. All his life he resented cheating and opportunism. In all his work — and he could do many things — he was always honest and sincere.
He was a carpenter and a self-made "architect” of sort. The house where I was born was built by him. He was the FIRST IN TOWN to use straight posts with cement foundation.
During the Japanese time he invented a cigarette-maker, a coconut milk-extractor (HAPITAN), a corn-grinder that also mechanically moved a giant fan, and assorted toys which we, and other children, fully enjoyed.
I will never forget his “fighting wind vane” atop our asis tree and his toys made of bayugo (the fruit of gugo). He had a trap for catching monkeys (PARUKUT), another one for catching wild cats (musang and alamid) which is called PAKWIS, a different one to catch birds (BANTAY), and still another to catch rats, he called this BANGKULONG.
His stories were perfect lullabies repeated almost every night at bedtime. He had a way of waking us in the morning by pulling our hands up while saying: “Haba-haba, laki, taba!”.
He was a veteran of World War II and a very good wartime father. Because of him my memories of war were nothing but fun and playful adventures. He was a practical catholic and a very understanding husband. He shunned controversies and heated arguments but he worked very diligently. In our small community he was the PIONEER of BALUSTERS, HOLLOW BLOCKS, DECORATED STAIRWAYS and TOMBS, not to mention coffin COVERED WITH GLASS opening enough to show the face of the corpse.
He used to take a bath at the nearby brook every morning, then carried home one hard stone (BATONG BUHAY) each time. He picked buttons, nails and anything of possible future use, along the way, together with coins and other valuables.
Most of all he was a musician, a clarinet soloist. He loved to join picnics, excursions and enjoyed carnivals. In his diary he had a vivid description of the first automobile that came to town, and like most people who keep a diary, he was very orderly.
He was a very different father but I would not exchange him for anyone in spite of his shortcomings which were few and acceptable. My father, GAUDENCIO VARIAS AVIÑANTE was the son of Fernando Aviñante and Juanita Varias.
I know this is much too late but I want to greet you Happy Father's Day!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Allfonso's Historical Background
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF ALFONSO
Establishment of Alfonso
The town has established on May 16, 1859, named ALFONSO to honor King Alfonso XII of Spain.
There were originally seven Barrios when the town was established, namely: ESPERANZA (Pag-asa), now Esperanza Ibaba and Esperanza Ilaya; KAYTITINGA (Mainam), now Kaytitinga 1, Kaytitinga 2 and Kaytitinga 3; MARAHAN, now Marahan 1 (Kanluran) and Marahan 2 (Silangan, including Balubad); MATAGBAK, now Matagbak 1 and Matagbak 2 (Putol); PAJO; SINALIW; now Sinaliw Malaki, Pulyok (Sta. Teresa), Sinaliw Munti, and Bilog; ang TAYWANAK, now Taywanak Ibaba or Taywanak Malyo (formerly Kakwatihan), Taywanak Ilaya or Taywanak Malapit (formerly Malaking Bayan); and MANGGAS, now Manggas Ibaba and Manggas Ilaya (Kural).
Former Sitios were also made Barrio proper and divided into several Barangays: Sitio Pansin is now Barangay Luksuhin Ibaba, Sitio Mataas na Pulo is now Barangay Luksuhin Ilaya. Former Sitio Maybalon (Anluwage) is now Barangay Sikat. Sitio Buck Estate is now Barangay Buck Estates. This also happened to former Sitio Upli, Sulsugin, Amuyong, Palumlum and Caysuyo. What we now called Barangays are what used to be called Barrios but were changed to Barangay by virtue of a Presidential decree during the Marcos Regime.
The highest Municipal Official at the time of the establishment of Alfonso was the “Gobernadorcillo”. This was changed to “Captain Municipal” in 1894; then to “Presidential Municipal” in 1901; “Alcalde Municipal” in 1936 during the Commonwealth Government.
When Antonio Villegas was Mayor of Manila he started calling Mayors “GATPUNO” but this term did not catch fire. Instead most Mayors were addressed “Punongbayan” which became interchangeable with “Alcalde”. The first “Gobernadorcillo” of 1859 was Don Bonifacio Aveo. Then in 1894. Don Lorenzo Angeles became “Capitan Municipal” until 1895. Don Narciso Mojica served next to Capitan Angeles until August, 1896 when the revolution against the Spaniards started. Don Hipolito Rint served from 1896 to 1897, after which Don Lorenzo Angeles was reinstated by the Revolutionary Government until the year 1898.
When Ferdinande Marcos declared Martial Law in 1972, most Mayors stayed in their seat of power until Marcos was deposed during the Bloodless Revolution in 1986.
Mrs. Corazon C. Aquino, the widow of the late Benigno Aquino, Jr. (assassinated on August 21, 1983) was proclaimed president by “People Power”. She temporarily established a Revolutionary Government under a Freedom Constitution. Overstaying Mayors were replaced by appointed OIC (Officer-in-Charge).
LIST OF ALFONSO MUNICIPAL HEADS
1. Bonifacio Aveo 1859 Gobernadorcillo
2. Vicente Rosel 1860 Gobernadorcillo
3. Felix Del Mundo 1861 Gobernadorcillo
4. Herminigildo Aviñante 1862 Gobernadorcillo
5. Sotero Varias 1863-64 Gobernadorcillo
6. Simplicio Hermoso 1865-66 Gobernadorcillo
7. Roman Rosel 1867-68 Gobernadorcillo
8. Jose Cron 1869-70 Gobernadorcillo
9. Gregorio Liamado 1871 Gobernadorcillo
10. Salustiano Esguerra 1872 Gobernadorcillo
11. Proceso Peji 1873-74 Gobernadorcillo
12. Herminigildo Aviñante 1875-76 Gobernadorcillo
13. Silverio Rosanes 1877-78 Gobernadorcillo
14. Francisco Mojica 1879-82 Gobernadorcillo
15. Lucio Credo 1883-84 Gobernadorcillo
16. Jose Cron 1885-86 Gobernadorcillo
17. Lucio Credo 1887 Gobernadorcillo
18. Hipolito Rint 1888 Gobernadorcillo
19. Gregorio Aviñante 1889-90 Gobernadorcillo
20. Lorenzo Angeles 1891-93 Capitan Municipal
21. Lorenzo Angeles 1894-95 Capitan Municipal
22. Narciso Mojica 1896 Capitan Municipal
23. Hipolito Rint August 1896 (temp.) Capitan Municipal
24. Lorenzo Angeles 1897-98 Capitan Municipal
25. Juan Aviñante 1899 Capitan Municipal
26. Tranquilino Herrera 1900 Presidente Municipal
27. Lorenzo Angeles 1901 Presidente Municipal
28. Miguel Pireda 1902 Presidente Municipal
29. Hipolito Rint 1903 Presidente Municipal
30. Lucio Credo 1904 Presidente Municipal
31. Lorenzo Angeles 1905-06 Presidente Municipal
32. Hipolito Rint 1907 Presidente Municipal
33. Severino Rosanes 1908-09 Presidente Municipal
34. Andres Herrera 1910-11 Presidente Municipal
35. Marcelino Aure 1912-15 Presidente Municipal
36. Nemecio Herrera 1916-19 Presidente Municipal
37. Severino Rosanes 1920-21 Presidente Municipal
38. Angeles Hernais 1922-25 Presidente Municipal
39. Armando Peji 1926-31 Alcalde Municipal
40. Aureliano Rosanes 1932-33 Alcalde Municipal
41. Juan Mojica 1934-35 Alcalde Municipal
42. Juan Mojica 1936 Alcalde Municipal
43. Angeles Hernais 1937-44 Alcalde Municipal
44. Adelardo Rosanes 1945-55 Alcalde Municipal
45. Angeles Hernais 1956-60 Alcalde Municipal
46. Adelardo Rosanes 1961-71 Alcalde Municipal
47. Florencio Montenegro 1972-86 Mayor
48. Ernesto Hermoso May 1986 – Jan 1988 OIC Mayor (Alkalde)
49. Dr. Modesto Mojica Feb 1988 – May 1992 Mayor Alkalde
50. Florencio Montenegro June 1992 – May 1998 Mayor Alkalde
51. Florencio Montenegro June 1998 – June 2001 Mayor Alkalde
52. Virgilio Varias June 2001 – June 2004 Mayor Alkalde
53. Jose Pañano, M. E. June 2004 – June 2007 Mayor Alkalde
54. Virgilio Varias July 1, 2007 Mayor Alkalde
LIST OF PARISH PRIESTS
1. Rev. Fr. Jose Sta. Maria Jan 20, 1861 – June 23, 1871
2. Rev. Fr. Perfecto A Valle June 24, 1871 – Dec. 11, 1873
3. Rev. Fr. Tomas Monforte June 16, 1874 – June 19, 1878
4. Rev. Fr. Isidoro Capillanes July 3, 1878 – Dec. 5, 1883
5. Rev. Fr. Candido Valles Dec. 8, 1883 – June 5, 1885
6. Rev. Fr. Juan Gonzales June 5, 1885 – Aug. 7, 1888
7. Rev. Fr. Candido G. Valles Aug. 7, 1888 – June 15, 1891
8. Rev. Fr. Benito Mojica (Temp.) June 15, 1891 – Aug. 17, 1891
9. Rev. Fr. Valentin Velasco Aug. 17, 1891 – Sept. 13, 1891
10. Rev. Fr. Victorio Rubio Sept. 13, 1891 – Aug. 14, 1901
11. Rev. Fr. Benito Mojica Aug. 18, 1901 – May 3, 1903
12. Rev. Fr. Policarpio Villafranca May 6, 1903 – July 30, 1903
13. Rev. Fr. Adriano Cuerpo Sept. 13, 1891 – Jan. 3, 1906
14. Rev. Fr. Fausto Santos Jan. 18, 1906 – Jan. 5, 1907
15. Rev. Fr. Faustino Sardo Jan. 19, 1907 – April 2, 1909
16. Rev. Fr. Pablo Camilo April 2, 1909 – Aug. 10, 1910
17. Rev. Fr. Jorge Capistrano Aug. 17, 1910 – Oct. 9, 1910
18. Rev. Fr. Angel Cortezar Oct. 22, 1910 – Feb. 10, 1912
19. Rev. Fr. Jorge Capistrano Feb. 24, 1912 – Oct. 29, 1919
20. Rev. Fr. Emilio Mercado Nov. 2, 1919 – May 18, 1928
21. Rev. Fr. Conrado Arciaga May 18, 1928 – Feb. 10, 1932
22. Rev. Fr. Jose C. Marquez Feb. 10, 1932 – July 19, 1933
23. Rev. Fr. Lorenzo Mañosca July 19, 1933 – April 1, 1936
24. Rev. Fr. Santiago G. Guanlao April 1, 1936 – Aug. 9, 1936
25. Rev. Fr. Elpidio P. Peredo Aug. 9, 1936 – Sept. 17, 1937
26. Rev. Fr. Pacifico B. Araullo Sept. 19, 1937 – April 1, 1946
27. Rev. Fr. Segundo Alto April 1, 1946 – Sept. 23, 1951
28. Rev. Fr. Felix Igancio Oct. 14, 1951 – May 25, 1952
29. Rev. Fr. Gabriel Hocson June 15, 1952 – Jan. 11, 1953
30. Rev. Fr. Jose R. Rementilla Jan. 19, 1953 – Oct. 1, 1961
31. Rev. Fr. Rosendo Iganacio Oct. 1, 1961 – April 7, 1962
32. Rev. Fr. Francisco Santiago April 7, 1962 – Sept. 25, 1966
33. Rev. Fr. Leopoldo del Rosario Oct. 2, 1966 – Aug. 22, 1971
34. Rev. Fr. Avelino R. Sapida Aug. 28, 1971 – May 1, 1978
35. Rev. Fr. Andres S. Coral, Jr. May 1, 1978 – June 25 1979
36. Rev. Fr. Inocencio Poblete, Jr. June 25, 1979 – June 15, 1984
37. Rev. Fr. Redentor Corpus June 15, 1984 – July 30, 1997
38. Rev. Fr. Ruel Castañeda July 30, 1997 – Apr. 4, 1999
39. Rev. Fr. Herminigildo M. Asilo April 4, 1999 – Sept. 27, 2001
40. Rev. Fr. Leoben (Phem) Peregrino Sept. 27, 2001 – May 26, 2003
41. Rev. Fr. Bernie Gacelo May 26, 2003 -
ALFONSO’S FIRSTS
FIRST SETTLERS:
1. Bonifacio Aveo Family
2. Telesforo Añonuevo Family
3. Simplicio Hermoso Family
4. Eufemio Mojica Family
5. Bonifacio Aventurado Family
6. Venancio Rupido Family
7. Luis Credo Family
8. Felix del Mundo Family
9. Tomas Marquez Family
10. Salustiano Esguerra Family
11. Vicente Rosel Family
12. Sacarias Hermoso Family
13. Herminigildo Aviñante Family
FIRST TITLE HOLDERS:
1. Goberndorcillo Bonifacio Aveo (1859)
2. Capitan Municipal Lorenzo Angeles (1894)
3. Presidente Municipal Lorenzo Angeles (1901)
4. Alcelde Municipal Juan Mojica, Sr. (1936)
5. First Judge Don Pedro Villanueva (1885)
6. First Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Jose Sta. Teresa (1861)
7. First Outstanding Mayor Mayor Angeles Hernais (1958)
OTHER FIRSTS:
1. First to Die Juana Romasanta
2. First persons baptized Lucia Peñano & Marcelo Peji
3. First to introduce Harana Godofredo Canlobo (late 1800’s)
4. First automobile owner Pedro Seltiel from Indang (1930)
5. First Provincial Governor Reymundo Jeciel (1922-24)
6. First Social Organization Alulong & Sa Liwanag ng Buwan
7. First of Introduce bahete Pablo Espineli (late 1800’s)
8. First Medical Practitioner Dr. Santiago Rosanes
9. First Firewalker Pedro Manuyag (1921)
In 1885, the justice of peace was established. The first judge was Don Pedro Villanueva and the first successive judges according to Gervacio Pangilinan’s “La Historica Cavite” are:
1. Don Pedro Villanueva
2. Don Pedro Mojica
3. Don Herminigildo Aviñante
4. Don Gregorio Llamado
5. Don Simplicio Hermoso
6. Don Felix del Mundo
7. Don Silvino Rosanes
8. Don Salustiano Esguerra
9. Don Sotero Varias
10. Don Vicente Rosel
From the book TINGKORAW:Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
Establishment of Alfonso
The town has established on May 16, 1859, named ALFONSO to honor King Alfonso XII of Spain.
There were originally seven Barrios when the town was established, namely: ESPERANZA (Pag-asa), now Esperanza Ibaba and Esperanza Ilaya; KAYTITINGA (Mainam), now Kaytitinga 1, Kaytitinga 2 and Kaytitinga 3; MARAHAN, now Marahan 1 (Kanluran) and Marahan 2 (Silangan, including Balubad); MATAGBAK, now Matagbak 1 and Matagbak 2 (Putol); PAJO; SINALIW; now Sinaliw Malaki, Pulyok (Sta. Teresa), Sinaliw Munti, and Bilog; ang TAYWANAK, now Taywanak Ibaba or Taywanak Malyo (formerly Kakwatihan), Taywanak Ilaya or Taywanak Malapit (formerly Malaking Bayan); and MANGGAS, now Manggas Ibaba and Manggas Ilaya (Kural).
Former Sitios were also made Barrio proper and divided into several Barangays: Sitio Pansin is now Barangay Luksuhin Ibaba, Sitio Mataas na Pulo is now Barangay Luksuhin Ilaya. Former Sitio Maybalon (Anluwage) is now Barangay Sikat. Sitio Buck Estate is now Barangay Buck Estates. This also happened to former Sitio Upli, Sulsugin, Amuyong, Palumlum and Caysuyo. What we now called Barangays are what used to be called Barrios but were changed to Barangay by virtue of a Presidential decree during the Marcos Regime.
The highest Municipal Official at the time of the establishment of Alfonso was the “Gobernadorcillo”. This was changed to “Captain Municipal” in 1894; then to “Presidential Municipal” in 1901; “Alcalde Municipal” in 1936 during the Commonwealth Government.
When Antonio Villegas was Mayor of Manila he started calling Mayors “GATPUNO” but this term did not catch fire. Instead most Mayors were addressed “Punongbayan” which became interchangeable with “Alcalde”. The first “Gobernadorcillo” of 1859 was Don Bonifacio Aveo. Then in 1894. Don Lorenzo Angeles became “Capitan Municipal” until 1895. Don Narciso Mojica served next to Capitan Angeles until August, 1896 when the revolution against the Spaniards started. Don Hipolito Rint served from 1896 to 1897, after which Don Lorenzo Angeles was reinstated by the Revolutionary Government until the year 1898.
When Ferdinande Marcos declared Martial Law in 1972, most Mayors stayed in their seat of power until Marcos was deposed during the Bloodless Revolution in 1986.
Mrs. Corazon C. Aquino, the widow of the late Benigno Aquino, Jr. (assassinated on August 21, 1983) was proclaimed president by “People Power”. She temporarily established a Revolutionary Government under a Freedom Constitution. Overstaying Mayors were replaced by appointed OIC (Officer-in-Charge).
LIST OF ALFONSO MUNICIPAL HEADS
1. Bonifacio Aveo 1859 Gobernadorcillo
2. Vicente Rosel 1860 Gobernadorcillo
3. Felix Del Mundo 1861 Gobernadorcillo
4. Herminigildo Aviñante 1862 Gobernadorcillo
5. Sotero Varias 1863-64 Gobernadorcillo
6. Simplicio Hermoso 1865-66 Gobernadorcillo
7. Roman Rosel 1867-68 Gobernadorcillo
8. Jose Cron 1869-70 Gobernadorcillo
9. Gregorio Liamado 1871 Gobernadorcillo
10. Salustiano Esguerra 1872 Gobernadorcillo
11. Proceso Peji 1873-74 Gobernadorcillo
12. Herminigildo Aviñante 1875-76 Gobernadorcillo
13. Silverio Rosanes 1877-78 Gobernadorcillo
14. Francisco Mojica 1879-82 Gobernadorcillo
15. Lucio Credo 1883-84 Gobernadorcillo
16. Jose Cron 1885-86 Gobernadorcillo
17. Lucio Credo 1887 Gobernadorcillo
18. Hipolito Rint 1888 Gobernadorcillo
19. Gregorio Aviñante 1889-90 Gobernadorcillo
20. Lorenzo Angeles 1891-93 Capitan Municipal
21. Lorenzo Angeles 1894-95 Capitan Municipal
22. Narciso Mojica 1896 Capitan Municipal
23. Hipolito Rint August 1896 (temp.) Capitan Municipal
24. Lorenzo Angeles 1897-98 Capitan Municipal
25. Juan Aviñante 1899 Capitan Municipal
26. Tranquilino Herrera 1900 Presidente Municipal
27. Lorenzo Angeles 1901 Presidente Municipal
28. Miguel Pireda 1902 Presidente Municipal
29. Hipolito Rint 1903 Presidente Municipal
30. Lucio Credo 1904 Presidente Municipal
31. Lorenzo Angeles 1905-06 Presidente Municipal
32. Hipolito Rint 1907 Presidente Municipal
33. Severino Rosanes 1908-09 Presidente Municipal
34. Andres Herrera 1910-11 Presidente Municipal
35. Marcelino Aure 1912-15 Presidente Municipal
36. Nemecio Herrera 1916-19 Presidente Municipal
37. Severino Rosanes 1920-21 Presidente Municipal
38. Angeles Hernais 1922-25 Presidente Municipal
39. Armando Peji 1926-31 Alcalde Municipal
40. Aureliano Rosanes 1932-33 Alcalde Municipal
41. Juan Mojica 1934-35 Alcalde Municipal
42. Juan Mojica 1936 Alcalde Municipal
43. Angeles Hernais 1937-44 Alcalde Municipal
44. Adelardo Rosanes 1945-55 Alcalde Municipal
45. Angeles Hernais 1956-60 Alcalde Municipal
46. Adelardo Rosanes 1961-71 Alcalde Municipal
47. Florencio Montenegro 1972-86 Mayor
48. Ernesto Hermoso May 1986 – Jan 1988 OIC Mayor (Alkalde)
49. Dr. Modesto Mojica Feb 1988 – May 1992 Mayor Alkalde
50. Florencio Montenegro June 1992 – May 1998 Mayor Alkalde
51. Florencio Montenegro June 1998 – June 2001 Mayor Alkalde
52. Virgilio Varias June 2001 – June 2004 Mayor Alkalde
53. Jose Pañano, M. E. June 2004 – June 2007 Mayor Alkalde
54. Virgilio Varias July 1, 2007 Mayor Alkalde
LIST OF PARISH PRIESTS
1. Rev. Fr. Jose Sta. Maria Jan 20, 1861 – June 23, 1871
2. Rev. Fr. Perfecto A Valle June 24, 1871 – Dec. 11, 1873
3. Rev. Fr. Tomas Monforte June 16, 1874 – June 19, 1878
4. Rev. Fr. Isidoro Capillanes July 3, 1878 – Dec. 5, 1883
5. Rev. Fr. Candido Valles Dec. 8, 1883 – June 5, 1885
6. Rev. Fr. Juan Gonzales June 5, 1885 – Aug. 7, 1888
7. Rev. Fr. Candido G. Valles Aug. 7, 1888 – June 15, 1891
8. Rev. Fr. Benito Mojica (Temp.) June 15, 1891 – Aug. 17, 1891
9. Rev. Fr. Valentin Velasco Aug. 17, 1891 – Sept. 13, 1891
10. Rev. Fr. Victorio Rubio Sept. 13, 1891 – Aug. 14, 1901
11. Rev. Fr. Benito Mojica Aug. 18, 1901 – May 3, 1903
12. Rev. Fr. Policarpio Villafranca May 6, 1903 – July 30, 1903
13. Rev. Fr. Adriano Cuerpo Sept. 13, 1891 – Jan. 3, 1906
14. Rev. Fr. Fausto Santos Jan. 18, 1906 – Jan. 5, 1907
15. Rev. Fr. Faustino Sardo Jan. 19, 1907 – April 2, 1909
16. Rev. Fr. Pablo Camilo April 2, 1909 – Aug. 10, 1910
17. Rev. Fr. Jorge Capistrano Aug. 17, 1910 – Oct. 9, 1910
18. Rev. Fr. Angel Cortezar Oct. 22, 1910 – Feb. 10, 1912
19. Rev. Fr. Jorge Capistrano Feb. 24, 1912 – Oct. 29, 1919
20. Rev. Fr. Emilio Mercado Nov. 2, 1919 – May 18, 1928
21. Rev. Fr. Conrado Arciaga May 18, 1928 – Feb. 10, 1932
22. Rev. Fr. Jose C. Marquez Feb. 10, 1932 – July 19, 1933
23. Rev. Fr. Lorenzo Mañosca July 19, 1933 – April 1, 1936
24. Rev. Fr. Santiago G. Guanlao April 1, 1936 – Aug. 9, 1936
25. Rev. Fr. Elpidio P. Peredo Aug. 9, 1936 – Sept. 17, 1937
26. Rev. Fr. Pacifico B. Araullo Sept. 19, 1937 – April 1, 1946
27. Rev. Fr. Segundo Alto April 1, 1946 – Sept. 23, 1951
28. Rev. Fr. Felix Igancio Oct. 14, 1951 – May 25, 1952
29. Rev. Fr. Gabriel Hocson June 15, 1952 – Jan. 11, 1953
30. Rev. Fr. Jose R. Rementilla Jan. 19, 1953 – Oct. 1, 1961
31. Rev. Fr. Rosendo Iganacio Oct. 1, 1961 – April 7, 1962
32. Rev. Fr. Francisco Santiago April 7, 1962 – Sept. 25, 1966
33. Rev. Fr. Leopoldo del Rosario Oct. 2, 1966 – Aug. 22, 1971
34. Rev. Fr. Avelino R. Sapida Aug. 28, 1971 – May 1, 1978
35. Rev. Fr. Andres S. Coral, Jr. May 1, 1978 – June 25 1979
36. Rev. Fr. Inocencio Poblete, Jr. June 25, 1979 – June 15, 1984
37. Rev. Fr. Redentor Corpus June 15, 1984 – July 30, 1997
38. Rev. Fr. Ruel Castañeda July 30, 1997 – Apr. 4, 1999
39. Rev. Fr. Herminigildo M. Asilo April 4, 1999 – Sept. 27, 2001
40. Rev. Fr. Leoben (Phem) Peregrino Sept. 27, 2001 – May 26, 2003
41. Rev. Fr. Bernie Gacelo May 26, 2003 -
ALFONSO’S FIRSTS
FIRST SETTLERS:
1. Bonifacio Aveo Family
2. Telesforo Añonuevo Family
3. Simplicio Hermoso Family
4. Eufemio Mojica Family
5. Bonifacio Aventurado Family
6. Venancio Rupido Family
7. Luis Credo Family
8. Felix del Mundo Family
9. Tomas Marquez Family
10. Salustiano Esguerra Family
11. Vicente Rosel Family
12. Sacarias Hermoso Family
13. Herminigildo Aviñante Family
FIRST TITLE HOLDERS:
1. Goberndorcillo Bonifacio Aveo (1859)
2. Capitan Municipal Lorenzo Angeles (1894)
3. Presidente Municipal Lorenzo Angeles (1901)
4. Alcelde Municipal Juan Mojica, Sr. (1936)
5. First Judge Don Pedro Villanueva (1885)
6. First Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Jose Sta. Teresa (1861)
7. First Outstanding Mayor Mayor Angeles Hernais (1958)
OTHER FIRSTS:
1. First to Die Juana Romasanta
2. First persons baptized Lucia Peñano & Marcelo Peji
3. First to introduce Harana Godofredo Canlobo (late 1800’s)
4. First automobile owner Pedro Seltiel from Indang (1930)
5. First Provincial Governor Reymundo Jeciel (1922-24)
6. First Social Organization Alulong & Sa Liwanag ng Buwan
7. First of Introduce bahete Pablo Espineli (late 1800’s)
8. First Medical Practitioner Dr. Santiago Rosanes
9. First Firewalker Pedro Manuyag (1921)
In 1885, the justice of peace was established. The first judge was Don Pedro Villanueva and the first successive judges according to Gervacio Pangilinan’s “La Historica Cavite” are:
1. Don Pedro Villanueva
2. Don Pedro Mojica
3. Don Herminigildo Aviñante
4. Don Gregorio Llamado
5. Don Simplicio Hermoso
6. Don Felix del Mundo
7. Don Silvino Rosanes
8. Don Salustiano Esguerra
9. Don Sotero Varias
10. Don Vicente Rosel
From the book TINGKORAW:Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
FOLKWAYS IN ALFONSO
FOLKWAYS IN ALFONSO
A. CUSTOMS OF THE PEOPLE
ON BIRTHS AND NEWBORN
It is believed in many parts of Alfonso that a child’s future can be guided right after birth. Many traditional practices are done ceremoniously during the baby’s period of infancy.
a. Immediately after the birth of a baby, the father places above his head, books, pencil, etc., believing that what they place there will guide the future of the child.
b. The cord is wrapped in a piece of white cloth and tied to a rafter in the roof of the house in the belief that the child will not fear high places.
c. The placenta (inunan) of the newborn is buried by the father together with the poisonous leaf of lipa and ligas plus other allergenic plants to make the child immune to said poisons.
ON COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE
The popular “Filipino custom… no touch” used to be strictly practiced in Alfonso but lately this has been diluted by the influence of modernity.
a. A boy pays a visit to a girl when the position of the moon and Venus is such that the moon is directly under the planet as if ready to catch it if falls.
b. The boy serves the family (panunmuyo) of the girl at least one year before the wedding.
c. The boy offers a “dowry” depending upon the agreement arrived at during the “Pamamanhikan” or “Bulungan”.
d. The bride is not supposed to try on her wedding gown or else something bad may happen.
DEATH AND FUNERALS
a. It is not good to do any kind of cleaning in the house or surroundings when someone is dead because the burial will be accompanied by heavy rain.
b. It is very dangerous to bump any part of the coffin on any part of the house even accidentally for it serves as an omen that another member of the family will die soon.
c. Female relatives mourn for one year by wearing black.
d. A fire is prepared near the gate and mourners are encouraged to jump over it after sprinkling table salt grains to disinfect themselves.
e. A broom immediately cleans the floor after removing the coffin from there. This is another ritual disinfecting.
f. Four days after the burial, the bereaved family members all go to the nearby brook to take a bath.
g. Nine nights from the date of death are spent for the “Padasal” as offering for the soul of the departed. During this period, relatives, friends and neighbors assemble nightly and share snack in the house. They don’t all go there to pray. Some gamble, the young ones usually play “Juego de Prenda” while the “manongs” and the “manangs” recite the prayers.
h. When the food (coffee and bread usually) is offered, one should take care not to put one cup over the other to prevent members of the family from dying one after another.
i. The ninth day, locally termed “TIBAW” is a whole day affair usually a get-together type of banquet whereby neighbors, friends and relatives are invited to come and join the closing “novena” for the deceased.
j. The 40th day is celebrated probably to symbolize the Ascension of Jesus Christ, forty days following His Resurrection.
k. Finally, the “BABANG LUKSA” (end of the period of mourning) is celebrated about one year after the death. This is another whole day affair.
l. After the “Babang Luksa”, offertory prayers are held every now and then depending upon the mood of the family. It is really quite expensive to die in Alfonso. What with all the traditional rituals.
Some of these traditions are slowly fading but it is still expensive to die, more so now that a regular coffin’s cost is prohibitive. Cremation is thus beginning to be popular.
ACTS OF RESPECT
People anywhere are expected to show respect to others but in Alfonso, we have customary acts of respect, which are very different and unique.
a. Young ones are expected to always respond with “PO”, “OPO” or “OHO” when talking to elders.
b. Kissing the hands (ang PAGBISA o PAGMAMANO) of the elders after sunset is not really kissing but actually mere touching of the elder’s right hand on the forehead of the youngsters. This is practiced anywhere during the night time whenever a young one meets an elder. This is a crude form of “hello” greeting done when one arrives or leaves.
c. Passing in front of visitors is an awkward act of “bending one’s body forward”, with arms also extended rigidly forward, palms clasped tightly and used as guide to carry oneself and to point to the visitors where he is going which he does as quickly as possible so as not to obstruct anyone.
ENTERTAINING VISITORS
Guests are brought to the farm for a taste of young coconut (MURA or BUKO) direct from the tree.
Fried chicken, “tinola”, local “achara”, “arroz valenciana” and other home-cooked delicacies are commonly offered by the host with pride.
On the way home, visitors will find themselves loaded with all kinds of available fruits, with of course, final remarks of thanks and an invitation to “please come back soon”.
SOME UNPLEASANT CUSTOMS
a. One cannot attend a “party” of whatever occasion without a “regalo” or gift.
b. The average Alfonso resident refuses to accept offers of food as compensation for their being very helpful.
c. People do not attend a wake (Pulawan) without “limos” or monetary contribution.
B. FOLK BELIEFS
ON BIRTH AND NEWBORN BABIES
a. A baby born breech presentation will turn out to be a natural healer of throats obstructed with fish bones.
b. A baby who sucks his thumbs shall become rich and famous.
c. A baby who cries loud on birth is requesting for a baptismal sponsor from a far away place.
d. A baby’s hair is cut on his first birthday otherwise something bad happens to the baby.
e. Intelligent persons, usually professionals are requested to be the first to cut the baby’s fingernails, to inherit the cutter’s potentialities.
f. A baby’s physical feature is influenced by what the mother thought of during her conception.
g. If the first child is a boy, the grandparents shall be healthier and shall live longer.
h. The child is influenced by the qualities of the baptismal sponsor (Ninong), hence the care in choosing one.
ON COURTSHIP AND WEDDING
a. A suitor must not visit a girl on “bad days” (Tuesdays, Fridays and days falling on the 7th, 13th, 17, and 27th).
b. Lovers are not supposed to see each other on moonless nights.
c. It is not good to give a loved one any religious article as it will prevent them from getting married.
d. A scar on the forehead is not a very good sign.
e. Persons with mole on the path of tears are widowed early.
f. It is bad for the bride to try on her bridal gown.
g. A lady in mourning cannot marry.
h. Brothers and sisters cannot marry within the same year (suno or sukob sa taon) in the belief that they, the couples, will be in constant competition in their livelihood.
i. Anybody in mourn must never, ever be included in the presidential table.
j. Immediately after the wedding ceremonies, the bride and the groom attempt to step on each other’s foot believing that it gives good luck to the married couple and at the same time determines who shall be the “boss” in the new household.
They also race each other to the door believing that the spouse who reaches first will live longer and happier.
k. Rice shower is practiced after the ceremony to keep the family “bountiful”.
l. “Dulces” (sweets) are offered on arrival of the couple to keep their family forever sweet.
m. After serving the food, the bride is “smuggled” by the relatives of the groom and brought quickly to his house.
n. A “gating” (measuring cup) is stolen from the bride’s household and carried during the “bride smuggle” so that the bride may not feel homesick in the new house.
o. On arrival to the groom’s house, the bride, accompanied by an old woman is “counted” in the room:
“Isa, dal’wa, tatlo…
Dito ka tatai’y dito ka iihi
Aalis ka man dito’y
Dito ka rin uuwi.”
“one, two, three
Here, you’ll urinate
And here, you’ll defecate;
You’ll be allowed to leave
But you’ll always come back.
ON MENSTRUATION AND PREGNANCY
A menstruating woman should not take a bath, eat sour fruits or even pass over bridges with water under it as all those things cause massive bleeding.
It is bad for a girl in her period to look at wounds for the mere act induces severe menstrual bleeding.
An expectant mother must not go under the house (silong) for it induces difficult childbirth.
Anybody staying on the doorway of a preganant womn’s house invites obstacles to childbirth.
A husband acting as pall bearer during a funeral shortens the life of the unborn.
A husband calling a midwife must not enter her house.
Pregnant woman must not drink without pause as the baby would cry non-stop after birth. A pregnant woman must wash her own plate after eating.
While in a brook or river, a pregnant woman must always face the stream’s flow.
An expectant mother must not wear anything round her neck.
A person sharing food with an expectant mother will feel sleepy.
A gambler greeted by a pregnant woman on his way to the gambling house is sure to lose.
Birthmarks are caused by conception thoughts (Paglilihi).
ON CARING FOR THE SICK
A sick person’s head must never point north or west.
Dog howlings and owl hootings are bad omens when heard in the vicinity of a sick person.
Black colored insects and flies are news of impeding death.
ON BUILDING HOUSES
Before building a house, a mystical calendar locally called “lunario” is first consulted.
The site is evaluated first by a “medicine man” locally called “barco” (see Sayaw sa Apoy)).
Doors must not be in line with one another, otherwise owner’s treasures “will go out easily”.
One cooking must not be facing the street or else unexpected guests would come.
Stairs are counted as “ginto, pilak, tanso, repeatedly, and must always end up with ginto.”
A dining table must be arranged crosswise with the main door.
Cabinets must not face west where the sun sets.
Moving into a new house entails other ceremonies including “BASANG-GILAGID” which is discussed somewhere else.
OTHER SUPERTITIOUS BELIEFS
Rituals to counteract cleaning the house during wake period:
Sprinkle salt grains in front of the Church on burial day so it will not rain
Throw a underwear of the deceased on top of the roof.
Do the sweeping of the floor at the very time of death.
Put an inverted broom against a water downspout.
One receiving a handkerchief as a gift shall experience shedding tears cuased by the giver.
Relatives of one who died are not supposed to attend another wake until after 40 days.
Families prepare an extra place at the dining table whenever a member dropped a fork or spoon in anticipation of a visitor.
This little accident is met with delightful anticipation. A dropped silver is always a friendly warning of an impending visitor: a man for a fork and a woman for a spoon.
Ever hospitable as most Filipinos are, the family readily sets an extra place at the table for their surprise guest… A tradition of love observed up to this day.
C. PSYCHISM IN ALFONSO
The highest scientific circles have recently agreed that many people are capable of using psychic energy in different ways though they may be totally unaware of the fact.
Local psychics in Alfonso learned their feats spontaneously (BUKAL) or guided by an old relative (MINANA) usually. Lately however, some practitioners are incorporating scientific knowledge.
Back to the old practice in Alfonso I noted that in spite of the various methods of quackery, the rampancy of amulets and several seemingly mystical rituals, bewitchment is not common, unlike in other localities in the archipelago.
It does occur however, occasionally and is usually caused by a “mangkukulam” (witch). The power of a “mangkukulam” is said to be inborn or occasionally, acquired after the person has been afflicted by a certain ailment. It is a common belief that the illness caused by a “mangkukulam” is incurable. Alfonso is fortunate that this is not common in the town. The nature of bewitchment is not fully understood up to present.
More commonly encountered is bewitchment caused by a “manggagaway”. His/her power is also inborn and inherited, so they say. A “manggagaway differs from a “mangkukulam” both in physical appearance as well as in general attitude. She may not always be old and ugly but her stare penetrates. She may not even be aware that she is “manggagaway”. She discovers herself only when somebody (usually a baby) she stares at, gets sick. The case is usually discovered by a “magsasanghiyang” (one who practices the “sanghiyang” ritual). A victim is said to be NABATI. Only the “manggagaway” (ang NAKABATI ) can cure the illness caused by her. Her plain saliva generally “cures”; at times, more elaborate procedures are necessary.
At any rate both the “mangkukulam” and the “manggagaway” are not common and are not popular in Alfonso.
Old folks know several ways to counteract the power of a “witch”. They suggest that if someone you encounter is a suspected “manggagaway’ you are supposed to immediately murmur some cursing words against her. You may even curse her mentally. A “buntot pagi” is also considered a good weapon as well as other items like bamboo sections with matching eyes, a branch of the plant “cayetana” or perhaps garlic.
Latin prayers are also said to be very effective antidote to bewitchment. Like the one supposedly used by Jesus in driving away the devil. “AMPEL MIBEL, GAYIM JESUS EXEMENERAM EGO SUM MICCIONEY EMPURO MECATIONEM DIORUM, NOR NOT NOD, NUN SICUT DEUS.”
There is also a “broad spectrum” prayer against all evil: “LODEM SOOLECAM SOPECLAM, or VIRGO VIRGEN MARIA OPICLUM or EGRA EGRAYUM EGROM ERESUM”.
JESUS MARIA Y JOSEP, or TUMAUS TUTAUS TABUUB JUB UB, or ARAM ADAM ACSIDAM VUC VOUC VAUC TAUOC, or MURMURLUM MURMURTUM MURSIATUM or ARAM AC ADAM AM ADAM and so on and so forth until one completes some fifty two prayers, all of which may be used while blowing on the body of the bewitched.
From the book TINGKORAW:Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
A. CUSTOMS OF THE PEOPLE
ON BIRTHS AND NEWBORN
It is believed in many parts of Alfonso that a child’s future can be guided right after birth. Many traditional practices are done ceremoniously during the baby’s period of infancy.
a. Immediately after the birth of a baby, the father places above his head, books, pencil, etc., believing that what they place there will guide the future of the child.
b. The cord is wrapped in a piece of white cloth and tied to a rafter in the roof of the house in the belief that the child will not fear high places.
c. The placenta (inunan) of the newborn is buried by the father together with the poisonous leaf of lipa and ligas plus other allergenic plants to make the child immune to said poisons.
ON COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE
The popular “Filipino custom… no touch” used to be strictly practiced in Alfonso but lately this has been diluted by the influence of modernity.
a. A boy pays a visit to a girl when the position of the moon and Venus is such that the moon is directly under the planet as if ready to catch it if falls.
b. The boy serves the family (panunmuyo) of the girl at least one year before the wedding.
c. The boy offers a “dowry” depending upon the agreement arrived at during the “Pamamanhikan” or “Bulungan”.
d. The bride is not supposed to try on her wedding gown or else something bad may happen.
DEATH AND FUNERALS
a. It is not good to do any kind of cleaning in the house or surroundings when someone is dead because the burial will be accompanied by heavy rain.
b. It is very dangerous to bump any part of the coffin on any part of the house even accidentally for it serves as an omen that another member of the family will die soon.
c. Female relatives mourn for one year by wearing black.
d. A fire is prepared near the gate and mourners are encouraged to jump over it after sprinkling table salt grains to disinfect themselves.
e. A broom immediately cleans the floor after removing the coffin from there. This is another ritual disinfecting.
f. Four days after the burial, the bereaved family members all go to the nearby brook to take a bath.
g. Nine nights from the date of death are spent for the “Padasal” as offering for the soul of the departed. During this period, relatives, friends and neighbors assemble nightly and share snack in the house. They don’t all go there to pray. Some gamble, the young ones usually play “Juego de Prenda” while the “manongs” and the “manangs” recite the prayers.
h. When the food (coffee and bread usually) is offered, one should take care not to put one cup over the other to prevent members of the family from dying one after another.
i. The ninth day, locally termed “TIBAW” is a whole day affair usually a get-together type of banquet whereby neighbors, friends and relatives are invited to come and join the closing “novena” for the deceased.
j. The 40th day is celebrated probably to symbolize the Ascension of Jesus Christ, forty days following His Resurrection.
k. Finally, the “BABANG LUKSA” (end of the period of mourning) is celebrated about one year after the death. This is another whole day affair.
l. After the “Babang Luksa”, offertory prayers are held every now and then depending upon the mood of the family. It is really quite expensive to die in Alfonso. What with all the traditional rituals.
Some of these traditions are slowly fading but it is still expensive to die, more so now that a regular coffin’s cost is prohibitive. Cremation is thus beginning to be popular.
ACTS OF RESPECT
People anywhere are expected to show respect to others but in Alfonso, we have customary acts of respect, which are very different and unique.
a. Young ones are expected to always respond with “PO”, “OPO” or “OHO” when talking to elders.
b. Kissing the hands (ang PAGBISA o PAGMAMANO) of the elders after sunset is not really kissing but actually mere touching of the elder’s right hand on the forehead of the youngsters. This is practiced anywhere during the night time whenever a young one meets an elder. This is a crude form of “hello” greeting done when one arrives or leaves.
c. Passing in front of visitors is an awkward act of “bending one’s body forward”, with arms also extended rigidly forward, palms clasped tightly and used as guide to carry oneself and to point to the visitors where he is going which he does as quickly as possible so as not to obstruct anyone.
ENTERTAINING VISITORS
Guests are brought to the farm for a taste of young coconut (MURA or BUKO) direct from the tree.
Fried chicken, “tinola”, local “achara”, “arroz valenciana” and other home-cooked delicacies are commonly offered by the host with pride.
On the way home, visitors will find themselves loaded with all kinds of available fruits, with of course, final remarks of thanks and an invitation to “please come back soon”.
SOME UNPLEASANT CUSTOMS
a. One cannot attend a “party” of whatever occasion without a “regalo” or gift.
b. The average Alfonso resident refuses to accept offers of food as compensation for their being very helpful.
c. People do not attend a wake (Pulawan) without “limos” or monetary contribution.
B. FOLK BELIEFS
ON BIRTH AND NEWBORN BABIES
a. A baby born breech presentation will turn out to be a natural healer of throats obstructed with fish bones.
b. A baby who sucks his thumbs shall become rich and famous.
c. A baby who cries loud on birth is requesting for a baptismal sponsor from a far away place.
d. A baby’s hair is cut on his first birthday otherwise something bad happens to the baby.
e. Intelligent persons, usually professionals are requested to be the first to cut the baby’s fingernails, to inherit the cutter’s potentialities.
f. A baby’s physical feature is influenced by what the mother thought of during her conception.
g. If the first child is a boy, the grandparents shall be healthier and shall live longer.
h. The child is influenced by the qualities of the baptismal sponsor (Ninong), hence the care in choosing one.
ON COURTSHIP AND WEDDING
a. A suitor must not visit a girl on “bad days” (Tuesdays, Fridays and days falling on the 7th, 13th, 17, and 27th).
b. Lovers are not supposed to see each other on moonless nights.
c. It is not good to give a loved one any religious article as it will prevent them from getting married.
d. A scar on the forehead is not a very good sign.
e. Persons with mole on the path of tears are widowed early.
f. It is bad for the bride to try on her bridal gown.
g. A lady in mourning cannot marry.
h. Brothers and sisters cannot marry within the same year (suno or sukob sa taon) in the belief that they, the couples, will be in constant competition in their livelihood.
i. Anybody in mourn must never, ever be included in the presidential table.
j. Immediately after the wedding ceremonies, the bride and the groom attempt to step on each other’s foot believing that it gives good luck to the married couple and at the same time determines who shall be the “boss” in the new household.
They also race each other to the door believing that the spouse who reaches first will live longer and happier.
k. Rice shower is practiced after the ceremony to keep the family “bountiful”.
l. “Dulces” (sweets) are offered on arrival of the couple to keep their family forever sweet.
m. After serving the food, the bride is “smuggled” by the relatives of the groom and brought quickly to his house.
n. A “gating” (measuring cup) is stolen from the bride’s household and carried during the “bride smuggle” so that the bride may not feel homesick in the new house.
o. On arrival to the groom’s house, the bride, accompanied by an old woman is “counted” in the room:
“Isa, dal’wa, tatlo…
Dito ka tatai’y dito ka iihi
Aalis ka man dito’y
Dito ka rin uuwi.”
“one, two, three
Here, you’ll urinate
And here, you’ll defecate;
You’ll be allowed to leave
But you’ll always come back.
ON MENSTRUATION AND PREGNANCY
A menstruating woman should not take a bath, eat sour fruits or even pass over bridges with water under it as all those things cause massive bleeding.
It is bad for a girl in her period to look at wounds for the mere act induces severe menstrual bleeding.
An expectant mother must not go under the house (silong) for it induces difficult childbirth.
Anybody staying on the doorway of a preganant womn’s house invites obstacles to childbirth.
A husband acting as pall bearer during a funeral shortens the life of the unborn.
A husband calling a midwife must not enter her house.
Pregnant woman must not drink without pause as the baby would cry non-stop after birth. A pregnant woman must wash her own plate after eating.
While in a brook or river, a pregnant woman must always face the stream’s flow.
An expectant mother must not wear anything round her neck.
A person sharing food with an expectant mother will feel sleepy.
A gambler greeted by a pregnant woman on his way to the gambling house is sure to lose.
Birthmarks are caused by conception thoughts (Paglilihi).
ON CARING FOR THE SICK
A sick person’s head must never point north or west.
Dog howlings and owl hootings are bad omens when heard in the vicinity of a sick person.
Black colored insects and flies are news of impeding death.
ON BUILDING HOUSES
Before building a house, a mystical calendar locally called “lunario” is first consulted.
The site is evaluated first by a “medicine man” locally called “barco” (see Sayaw sa Apoy)).
Doors must not be in line with one another, otherwise owner’s treasures “will go out easily”.
One cooking must not be facing the street or else unexpected guests would come.
Stairs are counted as “ginto, pilak, tanso, repeatedly, and must always end up with ginto.”
A dining table must be arranged crosswise with the main door.
Cabinets must not face west where the sun sets.
Moving into a new house entails other ceremonies including “BASANG-GILAGID” which is discussed somewhere else.
OTHER SUPERTITIOUS BELIEFS
Rituals to counteract cleaning the house during wake period:
Sprinkle salt grains in front of the Church on burial day so it will not rain
Throw a underwear of the deceased on top of the roof.
Do the sweeping of the floor at the very time of death.
Put an inverted broom against a water downspout.
One receiving a handkerchief as a gift shall experience shedding tears cuased by the giver.
Relatives of one who died are not supposed to attend another wake until after 40 days.
Families prepare an extra place at the dining table whenever a member dropped a fork or spoon in anticipation of a visitor.
This little accident is met with delightful anticipation. A dropped silver is always a friendly warning of an impending visitor: a man for a fork and a woman for a spoon.
Ever hospitable as most Filipinos are, the family readily sets an extra place at the table for their surprise guest… A tradition of love observed up to this day.
C. PSYCHISM IN ALFONSO
The highest scientific circles have recently agreed that many people are capable of using psychic energy in different ways though they may be totally unaware of the fact.
Local psychics in Alfonso learned their feats spontaneously (BUKAL) or guided by an old relative (MINANA) usually. Lately however, some practitioners are incorporating scientific knowledge.
Back to the old practice in Alfonso I noted that in spite of the various methods of quackery, the rampancy of amulets and several seemingly mystical rituals, bewitchment is not common, unlike in other localities in the archipelago.
It does occur however, occasionally and is usually caused by a “mangkukulam” (witch). The power of a “mangkukulam” is said to be inborn or occasionally, acquired after the person has been afflicted by a certain ailment. It is a common belief that the illness caused by a “mangkukulam” is incurable. Alfonso is fortunate that this is not common in the town. The nature of bewitchment is not fully understood up to present.
More commonly encountered is bewitchment caused by a “manggagaway”. His/her power is also inborn and inherited, so they say. A “manggagaway differs from a “mangkukulam” both in physical appearance as well as in general attitude. She may not always be old and ugly but her stare penetrates. She may not even be aware that she is “manggagaway”. She discovers herself only when somebody (usually a baby) she stares at, gets sick. The case is usually discovered by a “magsasanghiyang” (one who practices the “sanghiyang” ritual). A victim is said to be NABATI. Only the “manggagaway” (ang NAKABATI ) can cure the illness caused by her. Her plain saliva generally “cures”; at times, more elaborate procedures are necessary.
At any rate both the “mangkukulam” and the “manggagaway” are not common and are not popular in Alfonso.
Old folks know several ways to counteract the power of a “witch”. They suggest that if someone you encounter is a suspected “manggagaway’ you are supposed to immediately murmur some cursing words against her. You may even curse her mentally. A “buntot pagi” is also considered a good weapon as well as other items like bamboo sections with matching eyes, a branch of the plant “cayetana” or perhaps garlic.
Latin prayers are also said to be very effective antidote to bewitchment. Like the one supposedly used by Jesus in driving away the devil. “AMPEL MIBEL, GAYIM JESUS EXEMENERAM EGO SUM MICCIONEY EMPURO MECATIONEM DIORUM, NOR NOT NOD, NUN SICUT DEUS.”
There is also a “broad spectrum” prayer against all evil: “LODEM SOOLECAM SOPECLAM, or VIRGO VIRGEN MARIA OPICLUM or EGRA EGRAYUM EGROM ERESUM”.
JESUS MARIA Y JOSEP, or TUMAUS TUTAUS TABUUB JUB UB, or ARAM ADAM ACSIDAM VUC VOUC VAUC TAUOC, or MURMURLUM MURMURTUM MURSIATUM or ARAM AC ADAM AM ADAM and so on and so forth until one completes some fifty two prayers, all of which may be used while blowing on the body of the bewitched.
From the book TINGKORAW:Alfonso's History and Legend by jett e. avinante, m.d.
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