Woman of the House

The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands. (Proverbs 14:1)

Tia Lils once told me that she used to work, but after getting married, she decided to give up her job to become a full-time housewife. While Tito Jimmy earned a living, she looked after their growing family. A woman with many talents, she cooked, sewed, crocheted, managed the family budget, adorned their home, etc.  

Living with them for almost a year, I have seen how my dear aunt "built" her house - not just the edifice, but her family first and foremost. And when I say family, this is not just her own children, but also her nephews, nieces, and other relatives who have been entrusted to her care. 

During my stay with them then and every time I pay them a visit, there was no distinction between my cousins and I. Everyone was treated fairly. Everyone sees and treats each other as kapatid (sibling). 

Here were some of the ways she built us up:

She inspired us to be rooted on God. A devout woman, she was a regular churchgoer - Sundays, first Fridays, first Saturdays, etc. She was also a lector/commentator. Her prayer before serving: "Panginoon, ipagkaloob mo sa akin ang Iyong Espiritu upang makapaglingkod ako sa Iyong sambayanan" (Lord, grant me Your Spirit that I may serve Your people.).

She inculcated in us the value of hard work. During weekends and holidays, after having breakfast, we have to do our household chores: fetching water, cleaning and scrubbing the floor, doing some errands, etc. No one's allowed to sit idle. 

She taught us how to live within our means. For her, it is important to save something for a rainy day. When she had enough savings, she had a bigger house built in 1985 which stands up to the present.

She trained us to be organized. Everything should have its proper place. We should only bring out those things that are needed. A cluttered space, in her book, is a no-no.

She exhorted us to be forgiving. She once remarked, with tears on her eyes, that nursing a grudge won't do you any good.

For zeal for Your house has consumed me... (Psalm 69:9)

In the early 90s, the Mother Butler Guild (MBG) was established in St Mary Magdalene Parish. This  organization takes charge of cleaning the church as well as preparing and maintaining liturgical vestments and other paraphernalia. With all my cousins having grown up, Tia Lils decided to join MBG. Every Saturday morning, she would join her confreres to clean the church. According to Eldin, her youngest, she would arrive ahead of the others so that she could clean the tabernacle.  Her reason? While cleaning the "Holy of holies", she was praying for all of us. 

In My Father’s house are many rooms; if that were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you. (John 14:2)

Tia Lils, a faithful wife, a loving mother, a doting grandmother, a caring aunt, a loyal follower of Christ, passed away peacefully in the presence of her loved ones in the early hours of 13th February, two days after the feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes of whom she was a devotee. At the prime of her life, she looked after her house and, later on, God's house. 

Tia Lils' life is indeed a journey. The many chapters of her life were but milestones of her pilgrimage to the Father.  Through the many ups and downs of her life, she soldiered on because she put her trust in the Lord. Having accomplished her mission on earth, I am hopeful that Jesus will welcome her in the New Jerusalem.

Tia Lils, thank you for everything that you have shared with us - your love, your wisdom, your life. We have been truly blessed through the many ways that you have touched our lives. Help us to be a blessing to others. As you have remembered us in prayer and service before the Blessed Sacrament, please continue to pray for us now that you are in the healing presence of God. We love you!

Eternal rest grant unto the soul of Lilia, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

Our hearts go out to Manong Alvin, Erwin, Eldin, Tito Jimmy, and the rest of the family in this time of sorrow and bereavement.

Saan Ka Man Naroroon

Devotion to the Faithful Departed (a.k.a. Holy Souls) has been embedded in our faith as Catholic Christians. We offer Masses and other prayers for the dead. We visit our loved ones' graves on special occasions.  For Catholic Pinoys, Todos los Santos (All Saints' Day), is a spectacle as we flock to cemeteries to pay tribute to the dead in a festive way.

I recall the many childhood years when my late aunt Mommy Rosie Samaniego would tag me along to 2 religious events devoted to the dead.  The first one is the Rosario Cantada, an old practice in Kawit, Cavite which some families would offer for their dead on occasions such as the pasiyam (Novena for the dead) or 40 days.  (This practice per se is not only held for the dead.  The outgoing Ina, during those days, would have the Rosario Cantada in her house on the night before she and the Ama turn over their responsibilities to their successors.) 

As the name suggests, Mommy and her fellow cantoras (lady singers) would chant the Rosary.  Musical accompaniment is provided by Lolo Gusing and his colleagues.  I don't recall exactly the lyrics, but I have a gut feeling that they were in Latin.  Due to migration abroad and/or death of singers or musicians, I think this devotion became defunct. I wish this could be revived.

Another act of piety which Mommy used to do was to sing during the Funeral Masses in Kawit. Her favourite song was "Saan Ka Man Naroroon" (Wherever You Are), a Tagalog kundiman (love song) composed by National Artist Levi Celerio.  This song was sung during Communion or when people are placing flowers on the casket, as what has been the practice before the burial.  Mommy would change the word sinta from time to time.  If the dead is an elder male, she would use the word "Itay" or "Ama". If it is an elder female, it is "Inay" or "Ina".  There were, as far as I could remember, two funerals when Mommy didn't sing it: during the Mass for Tito Carling (her younger brother) and Lolo Gusing.

Apart from this beautiful song, I was also exposed to the beauty of Kawit's liturgy for the dead such as the priest welcoming the dead and their bereaved at the door of the church, the incensing of the casket, and (during the late Msgr Hernando Godoy's time) the chanting of Requiem aeternam (Eternal rest). I learned the responses by heart so much so that during Mommy's wake, I managed to respond to Msgr Godoy's Latin prayers. 

I was told that there were other good practices for the dead (such as the priest joining the procession to the church and to the cemetery) that used to be in vogue, but have been put in the back burner.  I'm thankful that Mommy showed me what remains of such wonderful tradition.

After the Mass, we would join the rest of the mourners to the cemetery in Barangay Wakas on foot.  There was one incident that I won't forget one time we attended a funeral.  The neighbourhood barber passed away.  During the interment, it rained that the cemetery was muddy.  I saw some kids bigger than me stepped on a big slab of stone. So I followed them. Because of our weight, the slab broke!  Meanwhile,the sepultureros (gravediggers) were looking for a slab that was needed to seal the grave.  They have already cemented 2 together. Suddenly, someone noticed us stepping on the missing slab!  Mommy was so embarrassed and apologised profusely for our naughtiness.

In the family bereavements, Mommy wasn't the weepy type of person.  Though I may have seen her shed and wipe a tear, she exuded confidence and strength of character.  I've also seen her comfort those who are mourning, not thinking so much of her own grief.

Watching the videos that Manong Bob (her only son) took during her last moments on earth, she faced death with calmness and grace drawn from the Risen Lord Jesus. 

Saan ka man naroon, Mommy, thank you for being such a good example of how we should be devoted to those who have gone before us.  May we also show them the love and gratitude you have rendered them.

Here's a tribute to you on your birth anniversary this November 11. May you rest in peace!

Mary's Artist

Praying the Rosary, especially in October, reminds me of my late maternal grandfather Augusto "Lolo Gusing" Samaniego Sr.  As written in a previous article ages ago, he used to be the Musical Director of a number of religious celebrations in Kawit, Cavite.  

Lolo Gusing was a devotee of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.  When he was still alive, he used to attend the Novena and Mass held at the parish church every Wednesday evenings.  When I was studying at the parochial school, I would usually attend Mass in the morning, just before going to school.  One time, I attended the evening Mass and sat next to him.  

Apart from the Novena, he was also a devotee of the Rosary.  When I lived at his house, I would pray the Rosary with him, Lola Loleng, and other relatives every evening in October.  Being used to say the Rosary in English, I gradually learned to recite it in Tagalog.  Credit goes to my Lolo for teaching me "Aba Po Santa Mariang Hari" (Hail Holy Queen). Even when his health was starting to deteriorate, he would participate in the Block Rosary devotion.

My grandfather wasn't the imposing type of person.  I liked the way he 'walked the talk: leading us not by force, but by persuasion; sowing the seeds of faith gently into our hearts; speaking the truth in love (cf. Eph 4:15).  I have never heard him raise a voice nor utter a curse. When he wants to call your attention, he will just call your name once. 

I consider him as Our Lady's musician because of the many musical services he played and led in honour of Mary. The Panunuluyan, Maytinis' main attraction, depicts Mary and Joseph's search for an inn.  The Coros Villancicos also makes reference to Mary (i.e. "Corred vuestras offrendas, llevad las a Maria"; "Lahat tayo'y mag-alay sa Diyos at kay Maria").  Ditto the Regina Caeli  that's sung during the Salubong in Easter and the Rosario Cantada.

I'm sure the Blessed Mother didn't fail to take notice of this.  Lolo Gusing received the grace to be born to eternal life in October, the month of the Holy Rosary.  Furthermore, he passed away on a Wednesday, Mother of Perpetual Help's day, and the feast of St Luke the Evangelist (Oct 18), a fellow Marian devotee and fellow artist (musicians, writers, painters are classified as artists).

Thank you, Lolo Gusing, for affirming our faith by your gentle guidance, humble witnessing, and sincere love.  May you enjoy the Beatific Vision, playing great music in praise of Heaven and Earth's Queen and our Mother.  We love you!

***

My heart goes out to our kababayans in Cebu, Bohol, and other neighbouring places that were hit by an earthquake yesterday.  Apart from the lives that were lost, I also lament the destruction of several centuries-old churches such as the Basilica Minore de Sto Niño de Cebu.  We entrust to the Lord of Nature all victims of this catastrophe and ask for His mercy and guidance so that from the rubble, people and communities would rise again.  Let us hold on to Mama Mary and her Rosary!

Tito Otie

"Maaalalahanin ang kapatid kong yan" (My sibling is really thoughtful.), Mommy Rosie told a colleague. She was referring to her older brother, Rustico "Tito Otie" Samaniego.  She further explained that Tito Otie would often travel from Caloocan (and later from Las Pinas when his brood moved there) to Kawit just to check how his folks (i.e. father, siblings, etc.) were doing.

When we were kids, we feared Tito Otie because he comes across as a strict and serious uncle.  I remember one time we went to Bataan for the town fiesta. He was my room mate.  At the middle of the night, I suddenly woke up because he sneezed.  I laughed until he told me to pack it in.

We used to visit their place in Morning Breeze Subdivision in Caloocan since it's quite near to Tondo.  I think I would spend the weekend with him, Tita Erling, and their kids - Manong Don, Manang Mae, and Manang Ping.  Mommy Rosie and Manong Bob also lived with them.  Christmas is a perfect time to be there, for me, because he loves to display the Belen (Nativity Scene) in their living room.  One could see how creative he is as to how this traditional religious Christmas décor comes alive. I saw Tito Otie's human side when he got sick and told me that he might not be able to put up the Belen.  As a kid, I kept wondering and asked if others could do it.  He did get well and was able to continue the tradition.  In our latest visit at home in 2010, I was happy to see his Belen  when we paid him and Tita Erling a visit.

Tito Otie is not an extravagant type of person.  He once told me that it's not how much you earn that is important; it's how much you save. And that saving will see us through when the going gets tough.

As I see it, he is a faithful lover and disciple of history.  He can trace how we are related to this or that person.  He is affiliated too with the Kawit Historical Society.  He values culture which is why during big events in Kawit such as Maytinis or Holy Week, you'd expect him to be there. During Maytinis, particularly when the Coros Villancicos is sung, he would play his batingting (triangle). 

One can also engage with him in discussions on culture, current events and other issues besetting society. There was a time I heard him sharing his thoughts with the late Fr Luciano Paguiligan (former parish priest of Kawit) on how we could prevent any mishaps in church while the Belen is displayed there - he once had a first hand experience of how the Belen in church would have been razed to the ground had he not seen smoke coming from the stable due to an electrical fault!    

I have developed an interest in a few of his areas of interest (e.g. history, culture, social issues, theology, etc.), except for dancing of which he is the master!

Tito Otie is a conscientious family man.  Together with Tita Erling, they nurtured their children to the best of their abilities.  He also is a doting grandfather and I loved to watch him as he cradled in his arms Abby and Elaine years ago. 

It was his initiative that, every time we gather for the Noche Buena after the Midnight Mass, he would give distribute his pamasko to everyone.  When Lolo Gusing (his dad) was still alive, Tito Otie would ask him to distribute the gifts. When we were in our late teens, I felt a bit ashamed to receive my gift, but Tito Otie made me, my brother Gio, and cousins Erwin and Eldin at ease. 

When I was about to graduate in UST, he paid for my graduation portrait as his gift for me.  I could see the happiness and pride in his face as he shook my hands to congratulate me.  

I later found out how complimentary Tito Otie is.  When he hears how anyone of nephews and nieces were good in school, he would say "(A)ba!" (Wow).  He shows the same attitude to other people.  This affirmation I witnessed again when he made a sign of the cross on Nidz and I a few weeks after our wedding. He did it again when he proudly showed our aguinaldo to others in one our Christmas visits in the Philippines. I felt humbled by his gesture. 

Tito Otie is truly a father who journeyed with me and with the rest of the clan through thick and thin.  I learned a lot from that journey. Disciplining us when we were kids, Tito Otie pruned us. As we grew up, he is still there not as much as a disciplinarian, but as an advocate, an inspiration, a source of strength and wisdom saying: "Be fruitful!".

Happy 82nd birthday, Tito Otie! Thank you for being such a thoughtful uncle to me.  Your words of wisdom and care are much appreciated.  May God bless you always! We love you!

Three Celebrants, One Birthday!

Three people share God's blessing as they celebrate their natal day today, July 25.

First in the list is Laurentino "Tito Larry" Albano, my father's older brother.  Tito Larry is the third child of Lolo Paul and Lola Piling.  An excellent basketball player, he used to be the Coach of the Basketball Team in Letran Manila.  Our family would normally watch the games then to give my uncle and his team moral support.  Little did I know then that I would return to watch similar games years later - as a student of that august institution.  Apart from coaching, he was also the President of the family business.  Because two of his older brothers were in the States, Tito Larry acted as the panganay among his siblings in Manila.  Following the footsteps of Lolo Paul, he became Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus (St Joseph de Gagalangin Parish) for some time; he was also Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council during the late Msgr Feliciano Santos' time.  

I used to hear people call him "Godfather", but until now I'm still in limbo as to how he got this monicker. I asked folks from the States, but it got more murky as another uncle is called the same from their end. There are still those who call him "Tata Larry" (Tata is an Iluko word for 'father').  Indeed, he was looked up as a father by his employees.

Tito Larry's kids - Banjo, Champ, and Leia particularly - were our kalaro  since we all grew up together.  In the early 80s, Tito Larry and later his family moved to the States. Yet, we continue to get in touch through letters, pasalubongs (of which they are very thoughtful), and e-mails. Tito Larry was one of the first in the second generation of Albanos to go 'online'.  I could feel his fatherly guidance and assurance whenever I read his e-mail, regardless if the message were brief or not.  One e-mail I cannot fail to forget was when I thanked him for his kind words upon hearing the news that Chiara was born. His reply? "But of course she (Chiara) is our grand daughter!". I may be sentimental, but his message was really inspiring particularly that we don't have any family members near us when Nidz gave birth.

Cheers to you, dear uncle, on your 70th birthday!  May you continue to grow in God's grace, mirroring His fatherly care to all whom you meet!

***

Second in my list is Sancho "Tito So" Castro.  He is the youngest child of Lolo Tony and Lola Urs.  Like our first honoree, he is also active in church, serving as a Lector/Commentator at the St Mary Magdalene Parish (Kawit, Cavite).  A faculty member at the De la Salle University (Dasmarinas), Tito So is also active in a male chorale group.  We see each other very often in parish celebrations whenever I come home. We also keep ourselves updated from time to time in Facebook.  Tito So as well as his siblings continue to bring the light of Christ to the people of Kawit.

Many happy returns on your special day, beloved Tito! Keep up the good work in the Lord's vast harvest!

***

Last, but not least is Hershey Joy Mauricio-Reyes, the newest member of the Samaniego-Reyes clan, the wife of my first cousin Eldin.  I have not yet met Hershey, but I have in touch with her through social networking. Thanks to her, I was able to send a message to Tita Lilia through Voxer.  I was also able to hear my aunt's voice using the same technology.

Wishing you all the best, Hershey! This year is truly a great year - in January you and Eldin tied the knot; this December you will both be welcoming your bundle of joy! Looking forward to see you all soon! God bless you 3!

Tia Lils

June is almost over and, looking back, I found that all my articles this month were tributes to various people very near to my heart.  My first article was on a birthday. With your indulgence, I'll close this month off with still another birthday to be celebrated on June 30.

Lilia "Tia Lils" Reyes is my mother's older sister; the third child (first daughter) in a brood of 10.  When we were kids, we've often visited and stayed in her place in Kawit, Cavite during vacations. Her 3 sons Alvin, Erwin, and Eldin are like brothers to us - we grew up with them! Manong Alvin, the eldest, is our Big Brother if you like.  When my parents went abroad, Tia Lils welcomed us in her home. 

Personally, I learned a lot in their house: how to fetch water from the poso (artesian well) - water pipes were not available in houses during those times (if they do, water in Poblacion then was a bit salty so I have to fetch water from neighbouring Kaingen); how to clean the house; how to go to the market; how to become more responsible in the household, etc.  Some of my classmates would notice how I would go home straight from school and be surprised to see me in Kaingen carrying a pail of water or pumping the poso in a jiffy.  The experience gave me pride in doing menial jobs which is why every time we go to their place, we acted as though we're part of the household!

It was also during our stay with them that my faith took me to another dimension: being an active member in the Christian community. I had my first taste of being part of the block rosary and the Basic Christian Community.  Being religious herself, I imitated Tia Lils' devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and St Joseph.  Almost every evening, we gather to pray the Angelus and Rosary. When they would visit us in Gagalangin, I often asked if we could say the Rosary together which she obliged.  I am touched every time she blesses us when we do the Mano Po  (a Filipino custom where people place and elder's right hand on their forehead asking for their blessing).

Tia Lils valued hardwork, thriftiness, prudence, and good relationship with others.  She would always tell us that there is a time for us to work (e.g. clean the house) and a time to relax and have fun.  That's why when it's a weekend or schools are closed, we make it a point in the morning to be on our toes after having breakfast - one's busy with scrubbing the floor, another fetching water, etc. 

As a homemaker, she is excellent in budgeting/saving for the future.  When Tito Jimmy, her husband (who used to live in Gagalangin), was working in the Middle East, she saved enough for her sons' education and managed to have a new house built.  She often told us the importance of saving, otherwise we might end up with nothing when we needed something!

She was careful with her words and would always remind us to think 10 times before we say something.  Kids at that time, I was madaldal and I often caught myself reaping the whirlwind because of the inappropriate words I uttered.

Finally, she fostered harmonious relationship with people around her.  "Sinasayawan ko na lang" was her common expression with people who can be difficult to work with. Her advice to anyone working abroad: "Matuto kang makisama". I often hear her use the word kapatid (sibling) instead of pinsan (cousin) regardless if she speaks to her kids, nephews or nieces (e.g. "Kumain na ba mga kapatid ninyo?").  Incidentally, in Jesus' time (and perhaps now) there is no Aramaic equivalent for the word "cousin", hence, in the Bible you would read the words "brothers of Jesus".  Tia Lils, by the way, is also called Nanay Iya.

 

She always tells me: Ang gumagalang sa kanyang ama ay nagbabayad ng kanyang kasalanan; ang gumagalang sa kanyang ina'y nag-iipon ng kayamanan (Ecclesiasticus 3:3).

Happy 80th birthday, Tia Lils!  Thank you for loving and supporting us all through and through.  Your strong faith, words of wisdom, and gentle care are treasures we will cherish in our hearts.  You are always in my thoughts and prayers.  May God continue to bless you! We love you!

Lola Urs

The rich heritage and faith of the St. Mary Magdalene Parish in Kawit, Cavite would not be complete without mentioning the name of Ursula V. Tria Tirona-Castro whose natal day will be celebrated on June 18.

The fifth child and second daughter of Carlos Tria Tirona and Rosalia "Lola Chaling" Vida (Lola Chaling was my great grandmother Valentina "Lola Tinay" Samaniego's first cousin), Lola Urs (as we call her) was a church organist who looked after the parish's Schola Cantorum.  In collaboration with the late Fr. San Juan, Lola Urs composed the "Awit kay Santa Maria Magdalena" which has been sung on Thursdays (the day of devotion to the saint) and in July (when the patronal feast is held). She is also the composer of other religious songs such as "Viva Santo Niño" (sung in January) and "Matamis na Birhen" (sung in May).  Together with Dr Ching Alto-Agahan, she translated the "Coros Villancicos" (sung during Maytinis) into Tagalog. 

Lola Urs was also an active member/officer of a number of church organizations such as the Cofradia Sagrada Familia which is responsible for the annual Maytinis celebrations. She was the "Ina" (Female Principal Sponsor) in 1973 (I was still in my mother's womb then!).   

When I began to watch and later help out in the Panunuluyan (Maytinis' main attraction) with my aunt Mommy Rosie, I always saw Lola Urs serving as Commentator for the Midnight Mass (In those times, she was the commentator whenever the Cofradia hosts the Mass).  She was excellent in giving instructions to people, encouraging them to sing, and in supporting those doing the readings (e.g. the Ama't Ina).  There were moments when she would literally stay next to the readers (or if they're in a different lectern, stay on the mic and act as prompter) as some of them seem to have altar fright! (I remember one Ama asking her something, unmindful that he is already being heard by a host of churchgoers. Or an Ina who read something that Lola Urs has already done - it was actually an introduction to the reading!)  

One summer long time ago, after the Mass, my mother and I went near the sanctuary to pray for our departed relatives (There is a long standing custom in Kawit that right after Mass there is an opportunity for people to gather and pray for their dead loved ones). Lola Urs, bringing the prayer booklet, suddenly announced "Pietro is going to lead us today". As this was my first time to lead, I struggled to enunciate the prayer, let alone 'compete' with those who knew the prayer by heart that they recite it as though they're on a horse ride.  She stood by my side patiently and slowly recited the prayer to keep me at ease.

An alumna of the Far Eastern University Conservatory of Music, Lola Urs is a Lyric Coloratura which, according to her youngest son Sancho "...is a finer differentiation among sopranos". Tito Sancho also told me that she participated in vaudeville programs in theaters in Manila during the Japanese Occupation as well as sang Japanese songs in radio shows. She was the "ghost singer" for post war movie actresses such as Susan Magalona and Dina Valle.

What fascinated me most with Lola Urs was not  so much her religious fervour nor her musical prowess, although these used to be what I admire about her.  Tito Sancho recalled that she had a promising career right in front of her when she decided to give it up to be a full time mother of 7 children.   Indeed, there comes a time when each of us are faced with similar situations. Which one will be our top priority?

There are 2 important values that we could learn from Lola Urs:

1.  Family first.  There is a temptation nowadays where we tend to be magaling to other people, but not to our own.  Lola Urs' sacrifice has bore fruit - all her children are professionals and have been serving the Church/community in many ways.  Her first daughter, Sr Caritas Maria belongs to the famous Pink Sisters. Others such as Tita Paulyn, Tita Stella, and Tito Sancho are lectors/commentators in the parish.

2. Performers are good, but we need nurturers.  You may be talented, highly skilled, or religious, but if you don't nurture those around you, what's the point of having these attributes? "Faith without action is dead", wrote St James.  Mommy Rosie, when she was still alive, related to me the moments how Lola Urs supported her as a choir member of Schola Cantorum. She was close to Lola Urs who once intimated to her husband Lolo Tony how she loved Mommy. I think Schola became a training ground for Mommy so she could later assume the role of Cantora Mayor for the Maytinis and Holy Week celebrations.

Happy 90th Birthday, Lola Urs! To have reached such a venerable age is truly a blessing.  May you continue to nurture us so that we may become authentic witnesses of the Lord, singing together His praises forever! God bless you more! We love you!

Karakol Rain or Shine

Last weekend was Kawit, Cavite's town fiesta in honor of her patroness, St Mary Magdalene.  Traditionally, the karakol (from the Spanish word caracol because of the snail-paced procession with devotees dancing through the streets) was held on Saturday while other events such as Masses, Baptisms, Confirmation, Grand Procession, and Castillo (fireworks display) were held on Sunday. When I was a little boy, I enjoyed going to the karakol even though I couldn't dance gracefully.  The karakol starts off late morning going through a number of barangays in the town. It finishes off in the early evening.

Eldin, my first cousin who is based in Kawit, told me that the karakol went well this year in spite of the high tide (and the rain).  Since the late 90s, Kawit has been inundated with water from the sea even if the sun is at its peak, thanks to some irresponsible people who wanted to make profit by converting their fishpens into parcels of land or the rubbish that has been dumped into the river.  The last Maytinis I attended in 2010 was affected by this which was why a different route was used for the procession. Right after the Midnight Mass, I was shocked to see the flood covering what we called as pangalawa't pangatlong kalye (Poblacion or Town Proper's second and third road). Years before that, my cousins and I found ourselves running to the driest alley just to escape trodding on murky waters.

I also saw on Facebook how joyous the devotees were during the karakol - the original image of St Mary Magdalene was placed in a bedecked andas and it wore a raincoat to protect it from the elements.  The band was playing, but its music seemed to have been buried by the laughter and merry-making of the people.

I tip my fiesta cap to the festival organizers and the devotees for showing such patience, determination, and creativity come hell or high water.  Kawit has been a parish for a number of centuries and it has survived the test of time.  Following the footsteps of Sta Nena (Mary Magdalene's monicker) who was known for her perseverance and determination in searching for the missing corpse of Jesus, Kawit's festivities such as the karakol, Maytinis, etc. have continued to be part of the community's life through the years.  (It's worth mentioning that Kawitenos in San Diego (SD), California have brought with them the traditions of their birthplace.  My mom was took some time off from New York to join other relatives and friends in SD for the Kawit fiesta complete with karakol and the like. The Maytinis is also being celebrated in SD.)   I am sure if Kawit survived in the previous centuries it will continue to do so - for as long as people value their cultural heritage. 

Others, especially  those in the metropolis, might argue that traditions would of course continue to flourish in Kawit (and other similar towns) because it's in the province (where natives would generally reside and where there is less migration).  True. Which is why I am encouraging communities to set up a Cultural Heritage Committee which will spearhead activities that aims at preserving and enriching events, customs and traditions, and protects treasures (e.g. buildings, statues, etc.).  Regardless if you are in Manila or in Kawit or any province, if this committee is set up (in a parish, for example) then we're pretty much sure that whatever our community's traditions and treasures are would be continuously looked after, showcased, and improved for the good of the next generation. If parents would leave a legacy for their children, how much more a community?

Ladies of the Rosary

As the year is about to end soon, it’s worth to recall what had happened in the past. It’s worth to remember! November, it has been said, is a month of remembrance – from saints (canonised or not) to souls of the departed; from those who died in the war (Here in the UK we celebrated “Remembrance Sunday” last 14th November) to those we consider as heroes (30th November is Andres Bonifacio’s birth anniversary).

Our Filipino Rosary Crusade here in Nottingham North gathered for many evenings last month to pray the Rosary. At the very end of our prayer sheets, are printed the names of women who have inspired me to love and promote the Rosary devotion in the neighbourhood. Although Rosary month is over, I’d like to devote this article to remember and celebrate the lives of these “ladies of the Rosary”.

The first lady on our list is Mrs Benjamina Valdes-Madamba. My paternal grandmother’s youngest sister, Lola Mining (as we call her) was known for her religiosity, particularly her devotion to the Holy Mass, the Rosary, and the Divine Mercy. As a little boy, I saw how she took care of having this huge image of Our Lady of Fatima (which I think is now housed at the St Rita Hospital in Tondo) brought to our house (where the Rosary was prayed during the image’s visit). Although it seems ages ago, that event paved the way for me to know more about the house-to-house Rosary devotion (a.k.a. block rosary crusades). The last time I saw Lola Mining was in 2003 before leaving for the UK. It’s unfortunate that I didn’t manage to see her in 2005 when I made a short visit to the Philippines. We only talked over the phone. Months later, she passed away. If she were still alive, she would be celebrating her birthday tomorrow, 18th November.

The second and third ladies hailed from Kawit, Cavite where my siblings and I lived for two years. Mrs Anicia “Ti Annie” Andreus and Ms Julita “Ti Lita” Magadia were both active members of the parish. Ti Annie, as I have mentioned in a previous article, used to be a daily Mass participant and was Edwin’s (a former classmate) mother. I followed her good example! Ti Lita was our block rosary chairman. Every night in October 1985, rain or shine we will be bringing an old image of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal to houses along Tanggulan Street. Ti Lita, who was also a lector/commentator in church, would always guide whoever leads the prayer in that house while Ti Annie looks after the cassette radio which plays Marian songs during prayers and procession. When we returned to Manila, I still continued to get in touch with them and even joined in some rosary recitation when I can. If I am not mistaken Ti Lita passed away in 2005, while Ti Annie this year.

The last set of ladies were from Gagalangin, Tondo. When we moved back to Manila and resided in our current home, we met Mrs Purificacion “Auntie Puring” Montero (who lived just one house away from ours) who coordinated the block rosary in our barangay. An active member of the Legion of Mary (like Lola Mining), she provided us with guidance and support. When the Bible Outreach Programme (BOP) of Fr Bhong Guerrero came into being in 1993, a reorganisation of block rosaries took place with five families comprising one group. We belonged to a group which was led by Mrs Leonora “Tita Nora” Tudara, mother of Dindo, a former classmate in Letran. The first time an image of the Holy Family (a BOP amendment) was brought to our house, Mama was not around so it fell on my lap to lead the prayers. I thought that was it when Tita Nora asked me to read the Gospel reading for that coming Sunday AND share my reflection on it! I can’t remember exactly the reading, but it has something to do with Christ as Shepherd. In that prayer meeting, was Mrs Dominga “Inso” Viloria whom I have met on a number of occasions in parish events. I managed to share, thanks to divine inspiration! Inso really engaged me as she asked questions on what I was talking about. I think that occasion became a rebirth from me because during that time, I have “laid low” in terms of participating in church activities. For a number of months, I joined in the weekly rosaries meeting new members and being refreshed in prayer and reflection. Auntie Puring was also part of our group and would join us whenever she is in the Philippines.

Later on, Tita Nora turned over the leadership to Mama. I later succeeded Mama in looking after this devotion and was supported by many devotees especially by Inso and Auntie Puring. A few years after Tita Nora stepped down from the leadership, she passed away. In 2003, a few weeks before I left for the UK, Auntie Puring died. Inso soon returned to her true home a year later.

As I remember these ladies, I am full of thanks to God for giving them to me as my examples, as my spiritual mothers. I feel blessed to have been touched by how they bore witness to the faith. May God, through Our Lady of the Rosary, grant them a place in His kingdom!

***

There is a seventh lady I wish to remember: Mrs Rosario “Sister Charing” Dungo who passed away recently. Sister Charing held a number of positions in the Gagalangin Parish. I must say that she “discovered” me as a potential lector/commentator. I just brushed aside the idea when she first mentioned it to me, but the second time she did I cannot say “No” – she has included me in the list for the Flores de Mayo celebration in 1992. Later on, she managed to give me and two other recruits – Richard Leyson and Ester Bunye – a schedule in the Sunday Masses. For some reason, I wasn’t able to thank Sister Charing for her kindness and support. I am still a Mass reader and perhaps the best way to really remember and thank her is to give my best in this ministry. Salamat po, Sister Charing! Rest in Christ’s peace!

Tita Jing

She was one of the two doctoras (lady doctors)in the Tria Tirona-Castro Clan; the other one is Tita Stella Castro, a dentist. Whenever we go home to Kawit, Cavite, we won't miss passing by their house since it lies on the calle real (main road). Her and Tita Stella's clinics are also located at their home. Maria Aurora "Tita Jing" Castro-Gines was an EENT (Eyes, Ears, Nose, Throat) doctor.

The Castros are religious and have been actively involved in parish work. Lola Urs, their mom, used to be a lector/commentator. Lolo Tony, their dad, was a special minister of Holy Communion. Tita Jing, Tita Tel, and Tito Sancho all followed their mom's footsteps.

Attending Mass in Kawit, I have been touched by how that family prays together. I was inspired to attend more fervently the Mass due to their good example. On a number of occasions, I would witness Tita Jing proclaiming God's Word on the lectern. I have also seen her once in Santa Cruz Church attending Mass and worshipping the Blessed Sacrament during its Exposition. Tita Jing's witnessing to the Word enthused me to serve God as a lector/commentator - in Manila, first in my mother parish and then at the metropolitan cathedral, and now in the UK.

A day after I graduated from UST, I went to Kawit since it was Palm Sunday that day. As I made my way to an available seat in church, I saw Tita Jing (and the rest of the family proceeding to their seats) and shared with her the good news (of me graduating). She was happy for me and asked if I would proceed to medicine (which was my original plan). I told her that I had another plan though.

There have been a few rare occasions I would see her since then like All Saints' Day, Christmas, etc until I left for the UK. Quite glad that our God is in full control of technology and so in Facebook we once again met! We had a few chats catching up on how things are going. She even became one of our Facebook friends in Tanghalang Anluwage, Inc! When we sent an invite to all friends to join us for our annual online Seven Last Words last Holy Week, she told us that she can't make it, but would join us in spirit.

I was sad to hear that she was suffering from liver cancer and kept in touch with her siblings and nieces - Janine (my former classmate) and her Ate Didith. Her demise came as a surpise for me. I never though it was that worse when I had some chats with her in Facebook and was hoping we could be reunited when I visit the Philippines soon. Yet God has other plans I think.

I will surely miss Tita Jing. In her sickness, she put her trust in God and she was never failed by our faithful Lord. Her example and life prod us all to continue serving God and His people. May the Risen Christ bless her soul.

My heartfelt sympathies to Lola Urs, Tito Ewat, and family.

The 14th Point

I feel really proud as I looked at photos taken during President Noynoy Aquino’s inaugural last week. I could feel that fresh hope pervading in the country now that it has a new (and duly elected) leader in the person of this unassuming son of Ninoy and Cory Aquino, revered icons of our democracy.

On the same day that he was sworn into office, Catholic bishops released a 13-point that the newly-elected president needs to tackle during his administration.

I read through the list and found some very, very familiar areas of concern such as the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program with extension and reform (CARPer), the rejection of the Reproductive Health Bill, same-sex union, halting of mining and illegal logging, corruption, human rights, the poor’s access to quality education, etc.

I was expecting that they would include the cancellation of payments to debts incurred by the Marcos administration. It is no secret that these debts were immorally done as they did not benefit the nation, but Marcos and his minions.

Since 30 July 1977 (when the dictator signed into law Presidential Decree No. 1177), a part of our national budget has been automatically earmarked to pay the “principal and interest on public debt” (section 31 of PD 1177). Sadly, the late Cory Aquino honored these debts and so payments have been ongoing until now.

40% of our budget is allocated for debt servicing, thus depriving our country from further development, poor families from getting access to a better quality of life, public services such as hospitals, schools, and the like from being able to fully respond to clients’ needs, etc.

40% is 40%!

I agree that we Pinoys believe in the saying that “Ang utang ay dapat bayaran”, but if it was done not for our good and if paying it would prevent us from enjoying what we humans deserve, then it is immoral to pay them! It’s anti-life, if I can rejig a famous by-line from our Church leaders.

I agree that “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap”, but corruption isn’t the only enemy to alleviate poverty. To alleviate poverty, P-Noy must also make sure that funds are appropriated where they are badly needed. He must send marching orders to Congress, when he addresses them on 26 July 2010, to repeal that oppressive law and make strong representations with the IMF-World Bank putting a cap on debt servicing.

If this is done, then at least 3 (i.e. educating the poor, poverty alleviation, and food security) of the 13 points raised by our bishops would have already been sorted.

I am disappointed that our prelates have missed this item when this issue has been staring at them all this time, when they have often spoken in defense of the poor and proclaimed that we are a “Church of the Poor”.

Debt is ‘utang’ in Filipino. If the President does not do something on automatic debt payments, more and more people would be drowned in untold poverty and misery. From their mouths, ‘utang’ would metamorphose into another Filipino word, a curse actually, that P-Noy would not like to hear.

I may not be a bishop, but like them I am also P-Noy’s boss. And so, Mr President, my appeal is: please repudiate debt servicing!

***

I am very sorry to hear the sad news that Mrs Annie Andreus, a long-time friend, neighbour, and perhaps a distant relative in Kawit, Cavite, has passed away. Ti Annie, as we fondly call her (“Ti” is an honorific title Kawiteños use to address their elders such as uncles and aunts.), was an ex-classmate’s mother. When I lived in my aunt’s house (which is a few steps from Ti Annie’s home and sari-sari store), I used to pass by the church before proceeding to the nearby St Mary Magdalene School. I would always see her attending the daily Mass. Later on, I found myself getting up early everyday to participate in the Holy Eucharist – sitting next to her. I carried this practice when we moved back to Manila and whenever I would go to Kawit and attend Mass I was happy to be reunited with her.

If my paternal grandparents introduced me to the Mass, Ti Annie reinforced that practice by her good example and encouragement. Which is why I'm telling our brothers and sisters in the faith, especially the youth: don't get bored of the Mass. Welcome your elders' proddings as a call to prayer, to be in union with the Lord. And as you grow in that upbringing, you will not 'lose' it even if you move to another place.

Thank you, Ti Annie. You have been like a mom to me. May you now enjoy the happiness in the presence of our God whom you have encountered in the daily Mass.

To Edwin and his siblings (Christie, Donna, and Faye), my sincerest condolences.

Man of Music

When I spent the Christmas holidays in the Philippines, I attended the annual Maytinis in Kawit, Cavite. As I watched and listened intently while the characters of Mary, Joseph, and the angels were singing on the stage-like belen, I could hardly fail to remember a man who used to be part of this event, a man who once performed as Musical Director of the "Panunuluyan" as well as the "Hosanna" (part of the Palm Sunday rites) and the "Salubong" (an Easter Sunday Filipino celebration) - my late grandfather, Augusto Luis Ravelo Samaniego Sr.

Lolo Gusing, as we lovingly call him, was a simple and silent man. Yet when he speaks, his words would etch its way into one's system. When we moved from Gagalangin to Kawit in 1984, I was reluctant to attend a new school. I had that fear of getting adjusted to a new environment. He wasn't really happy with how I was feeling. He called my attention to the potential I have, a potential that was nurtured in Angelicum, a potential that needs to shed its wings elsewhere. I took his advice seriously. True enough, I have been an honor student during my two year stint at the St Mary Magdalene School.

Having been used to pray in English, our family rosary in his house was a way for me to get used to Tagalog. As I don't know the "Hail Holy Queen" in the vernacular, he wrote it for me to memorize. Years later, in Letran, my Filipino teacher asked me to recite it which I did alright.

In 1986, he turned over the Musical Director post to Manong Bob. In spite of his old age, he still joined the Maytinis procession during that year. After the event was over, he told others gleefully how Manong Bob 'defeated' him. It's like John the Baptist giving way to Jesus Christ when it was time to do so.

Though he had retired from active work in music, music seemed to have a strong attraction for him. When an uncle (one of his sons) died and we were getting ready for the Mass in church, the musical band started to play before the crowd as it normally does whenever there is a burial. Lolo Gusing who, at first, was seated to listen to the performance, suddenly stood up to conduct the band! From a feeble octogenarian, he became an energetic youth. That was the last time I saw him conduct a band.

In Summer 1989, he became bedridden. As we were then living in Manila I pay him a visit from time to time. The last time I saw him, he told me, "Happy birthday!"It surprised me that he still remembered my natal day. A few months later he returned to his true home. I must admit that I feel sorry for not taking or making the time for him during his last few months. I was so engrossed with church activities as I was a newly elected president of a newly established group then. I know that my tears and wails during his funeral will never bring him nor the time to be with him back.

This coming Sunday, 19 August, is his 100th birthday celebration. I'm grateful to have him as my grandfather. A man with few words, just music.

***

Birthday blessings too to my uncle and godfather, Edgardo "Eddie" Samaniego this coming Monday, 20 August. Apart from Lolo Gusing (Ninong Eddie's Itay), he has been one of the 'father figures' I have looked up to since my childhood. Many thanks for all the love and support you have given us! Hope you enjoy the party!

***

Please include in your prayers Samuel "Soc" Madamba II who is due for a coronary bypass operation on 22 August. Ninong Soc is one of my godfathers when I was baptized. He is my father's first cousin.