Anonymous donor gives kidney patient new lease on life

By Ramon Dacawi

A fund support of P5,000 dialysis patient Martina Pacatiw Macario received last week will not stop her from sleeping –when she can – on a pew of the chapel of the Baguio General Hospital where she had found sanctuary in a determined move to save on costs and sustain her life-saving blood cleansing sessions she has to undergo for a life-time.

The amount coming from an unidentified Korean woman who coursed it through courier at the public market in La Trinidad, Benguet last Monday, is too precious to be used for transport fare and other needs outside dialysis.

The support triggers a retelling of Macario’s story – so she can thank the donor and for other would-be Samaritans to follow the anonymous donor’s act.  

Martina, a 50-year old native of Tadayan, Pudong, Kapangan, Benguet, is now on her third year of twice-a-week hemodialysis. In May, 2013, she was rushed to the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center where doctors told her her kidneys had totally failed.

Three years earlier, on May 29, 2010, she was released after serving 20 years and one week in prison.

She was sentenced after she was caught trying to sell marijuana in a vain effort to improve the living condition of her family.

“While client (was) serving her sentence, she made effort to send money to her children who (were) in the custody of her parentws in Kapangan,.” Noted social worker Charity Mabini in a report she made to help Martina look for support to her life-time dialysis.

“(Her) children have their own families already (and) can not extend their (sustained) support anymore to Martina since their income is not even enough (for) the needs ofthier families” Mabini added.

Martina eventually found alife-time partner from Tayug, Pangasinan where she goes home to when she could after her dialysis sessions here. She is hooked to the dialysis machine from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Mondays and from 11 a.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The prohibitive costs of dialysis (P2,200 per session), forced her to sleep Monday and Tuesday evenings to save on travel costs while waiting for her treatment on Wednesdays.

Chances are Martina’s story would be told again, after another Samaritan reaches out to her and she asks if the support can be acknowledged through the local papers. She can be contacted through cellphone number 09994699940.

Also in financial distress, another woman-patient requested last week that her condition be also told, hoping Samaritans out there would also help her sustain her life-time dialysis.

Sixty two-year old Remedios Bagsao of Paoay, Atok, Benguet could hardly sustain her twice-a-week dialysis at the Benguet General Hospital in La Trinidad, Benguet.

The patient began her dialysis in June, 2013 and has exhausted the resources of her three children the past three years. The family’s financial condition took another blow when her husband died two years ago.

“It leaves me with no recourse but to seek help through your publication,” she said.

Samaritans may ring up her cellphone number 09395684672.

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Indigenous peoples left out in peace, development agenda

PITCHING IN

Maurice Malanes

Despite being left out in the government’s peace and development agenda, indigenous peoples’ leaders and members are pushing for “genuine” participation in the peace processes and other areas of governance. 

And before it congratulates itself in claiming to have made breakthroughs in the peace process, at least with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the government must not rush to claim that “peace is within reach,” say indigenous leaders and representatives.

“The reality is that until now indigenous communities are being caught in the crossfire between the warring forces (in southern Philippines),” said Datu Eduard Banda, chair of the Magpet Tribal Council of Elders in north Cotabato.

Banda was one of 80 participants in an August 7-8 National Forum on Indigenous Peoples and the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples (2014) held here as part of celebrating the UN-designated International Day for World’s Indigenous Peoples, which falls on August 9. 

President Benigno Simeon Aquino III in his last State of the Nation Address or SONA said that “peace is within reach in a region that has long been torn apart by conflict.”  He was referring to the Framework Agreement on the Bangsa Moro, which was signed in October 2012 and the recent signing last July of the second annex of the agreement.

But even as Mr. Aquino reported in his SONA developments in the government-MILF peace process, the MILF breakaway Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) has continued to attack government security forces. 

The continuing skirmishes -- not only between government troops and the BIFF, but also between government forces and other armed groups in southern Philippines -- continue to sow terror among indigenous communities, said Banda.

Buoyed by the “straight-path” promise of Mr. Aquino, Banda and other indigenous leaders and representatives met to forge an “Indigenous Peoples’ Agenda” shortly after the new President officially took his oath of office in 2010. They then presented their agenda in Malacanang.

The IP Agenda had six themes, one of which was indigenous peoples’ participation in the government and MILF peace talks, the Bangsa Moro Juridical Entity and the government and National Democratic Front peace talks. 

But three years into the Aquino presidency, indigenous leaders say government has practically snubbed their agenda. Save for seeking to cover indigenous peoples in the government’s PhilHealth program, indigenous peoples remain unsecured in their lands and territories which, indigenous leaders say, are the targets of big mining firms, logging and plantations.

Despite all, indigenous peoples from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao yesterday have formulated an updated IP agenda, consolidated from previous calls, to be submitted to the government with a new congress.  The agenda will also be submitted to the high-level plenary meeting of the sixty-ninth session of the UN General Assembly in New York, also known as the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples, in September 2014.

The updated agenda have four themes: indigenous lands, territories, resources and “development aggression;” National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, conflicting laws and policies, and free and prior informed consent; and, social services, Millennium Development Goals and disaster response.

On the first theme, indigenous leaders say they are losing their lands, territories and resources to land grabbers, mining and logging companies, and to plantations. 

“We are losing our lands to land grabbers,” said Elsie Mokudef of TedurayLambangian Women’s Organization in South Upi, Maguindanao.  Her organization is thus calling for autonomy of indigenous peoples within the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao or ARMM as a mechanism to secure their lands and resources.

Protecting and defending their lands and resources from alleged land grabbers, including big companies, has proved risky, say indigenous leaders.  The Kalipunan ng mga Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas or KAMP cites that during the Aquino presidency, some 35 indigenous leaders, including 5 indigenous women and 4 children were killed.

They are thus calling either for the revocation or repeal of what they consider as unjust laws and policies such as the Mining Act of 1995 and the Joint Administrative Order No. 1 of the Departments of Agrarian Reform and Environment and Natural Resources, Land Registration Administration, and National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.   

They blame these laws and policies as favoring big companies, which allegedly violate indigenous peoples’ rights as contained in the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act, the UN Declaration of Indigenous Peoples, the Convention on Biological Diversity, the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), and other international agreements.   

The national forum was organized by the Philippines UNDRIP Network, Tebtebba, KAMP, Cordillera Peoples Alliance, Koalisyon ng mga Katutubong Samahan ng Pilipinas (KASAPI) and Philippine Task Force on Indigenous Peoples.

During the second day of the forum, the participants shared their updated indigenous peoples’ agenda with representatives of concerned government and UN agencies.

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Year of the Dragon

FEATURE
Dr. Charles L. Cheng, M.D.

Spring Festival is more popularly known as the Chinese Lunar New Year. It is one of the most important festivals of the year since it is the symbolic rebirth of the New Year and an occasion for all members to get together to renew, rekindle ties. The homecoming is the much awaited event for every household.

The date of the new year is determined by the lunar calendar and this year which is the Year of Dragon falls on Jan. 23. New Year’s day typically occurs on the appearance of the second moon after the winter solstice and vary between January 21 to February 19.

To prepare for the auspicious event, houses and surroundings are thoroughly cleaned, debts repaid, sport a new haircut and new clothes. Streamers of red paper with characters printed in fine calligraphy expressing sentiments like good health, prosperity, luck, happiness, long life, family harmony, peace are placed in front of the house, living room and walls of every room.

Food for the feast are meticulously prepared by members of the family and the special dishes that will convey luck and fortune. Jiaozi or dumplings with meat, shrimp, egg and vegetable fillings to encourage a year of peace. Others wrap coins in the dumplings and it is believed that anyone who will partake of its will have a happy and prosperous new year.

It symbolizes the new, replacing the old. Niangao, a sweet streamed glutinous rice for family and harmony and tranquility and a symbol of reunion of the family. A tray of 12 types of fruit representing the colors of the Five Elements of Wood, Fire, Earth, Water and Metal as symbol of bountiful and fruitful year. Trays of candies are also displayed to sweeten one’s life and harmony in the family.

On New Year’s day, children receive their Lai See, red envelope with coins or bill for good fortune. The elders talk of good virtues to be followed by the children. Visitation to relatives and temples follow with offerings to be given to ones ancestors. The festivities are followed with great fun, setting of firecrackers and with a grand parade to conclude the festivities.

Those born in the Year of Dragon are the following years 1928, 1940, 1952, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024. The Dragon is the only mythical animal in the Asian animal zodiac sign. It represents authority, fire, power and the Yang or male element in nature. So, the dragon year is wonderful year to be born into, especially for a boy. Dragon year people are healthy, energetic, brave, honest, sensitive and they inspire confidence.

They are usually taken advantage by people because they are soft hearted but once they feel they are being abused, they become bitter and it takes a long time to forgive and forget. They can be blunt, tactless or forthright in their views. They are ambitious, highly intelligent and very quick to take advantage of any opportunities that will enable them to attain their goals in life. Being perfectionists, they will set their goals and try to maintain the high standards he has set to reach the top of his chosen profession.

Their leadership qualities enable them to communicate their ideas enthusiastically, hence a persuasive speaker, a gifted orator, writer, have acumen for business and even have a successful career in politics. His interests are diverse and enjoys sport and other outdoor activities. His adventurous streak will enable him to travel considerably to distant place during his lifetime.

Dragon people can mingle well with those whose zodiac signs are that of the Snake, Rat, Monkey, Rooster. He can also be an ideal companion to that of the Rabbit, Pig, Horse, and Goat. He can get along well with a Dragon for they can understand each other, however, they find it hard to mingle with the Dog and Ox because both are critical of his impulsive and extrovert manner. Moreover, he is in conflict with the Tiger because the tiger speaks his mind, strong willed and wants to take the lead like the dragon.

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Mother tongue-based multilingual education

EDUCATION UPDATE
Amante B. Ulep

BALBALAN, Kalinga – The Institutionalization of mother tongue-based multilingual education in formal education is now posing as a big and interesting challenge for educators.

The Department of Education issued Order No.74 on July 14, 2009 and according to the order, integration of multilingual education (MLE) will extend to pre-school and to the Alternative Learning System.

Education that begins in the language of the learners has far more positive effects in school children was the rationale of the order.

According to information issued by the DepEd, studies show that children learn best when instruction at the primary level is in their first language, or mother tongue. Research also reveals that a child is more comfortable learning in the primary language. This allows for better conceptualization and deeper thinking.

The DepEd, in a recent press statement, said it will continue teacher training in mother tongue-based multilingual education, so teachers will acquire a clearer understanding of the principles, practices, roles and responsibilities needed for the successful implementation of mother tongue-based multilingual education.

An MLE Framework has reportedly been prepared for teachers, school managers, instructional quality assurance staff and education officials.

Among ten fundamental requirements, the MLE framework requires a working orthography or spelling for the chosen local language that is acceptable to stakeholders; promotes intellectualization of that language.

It also requires development, production and distribution of inexpensive instructional materials in the language at the school, division, and regional levels, and; gives priority on early reading and children’s literature.

MLE, is the effective use of more than two languages for literacy and instruction. The Philippines’ DepEd introduced a MLE Bridging Plan to be used for reference during the first three years of MLE implementation.

The department will also collaborate with MLE specialists to incorporate an MLE certification process. Their aim is to retain the privilege of establishing MLE certification procedures to maintain quality MLE programmes.

According to UNESCO, ethnic and linguistic minority people face obstacles to access quality basic education. This leads to high illiteracy rates and a poor quality of life. It is also a threat to the survival of their language and culture.

UNESCO has a strong commitment to support mother tongue instruction and bilingual/multilingual education to improve educational quality, especially for disadvantaged groups, and to promote cultural and linguistic diversity in all societies.

A “reflection paper” by Paulo C. Dorongon says “bilingual or multilingual education is a common practice adopted by many countries. As such learners are expected to learn one or more languages aside from his or her mother tongue. As in the case of most Filipinos, learning a second or a foreign language means learning new culture, new grammar, new words, etc. Questions arise as to whether learners have the real capacity of learning two or more languages all at the same time. But how do learners really learn a language?”

More in his own words: According Chomsky (1959), language is not learned solely through a process of memorizing and repeating, but that the mind contains an active language processor, the language acquisition device (LAD) that generates rules through the unconscious acquisition of grammar.

“Learning two or more languages is quite interesting. Learners are exposed to different cultures, different grammatical structures, different words and sentence patterns which will later create a big problem in their language acquisition. Lado (1957) stated that when studying English as a second or foreign language, learners found it troublesome to master the language because of many grammatical devices that need to be considered. He added that it is important to keep in mind that a variety of formal devices may signal grammatical meanings. And it is this variety that causes many of the learning problems in mastering a foreign language, since the use of different devices by two languages will constitute a problem.

Among the most frequent elements used in various languages to signal grammatical structure are word order, inflection (bound morphemes) correlation of forms, function words, intonation, stress, and pauses. Given this scenario, learning another language would not be an easy task to students; they need to master several grammatical elements and words which are entirely different from their native language.

On the other hand, teachers are faced with different challenges and problems when teaching bilingual learners. Sosa (1992) as stated by Diaz-Rico and Weed (1995) said that bilingual educators continue to face numerous challenges.

Some of these are as follows: need to integrate innovations (cooperative learning, etc) into bilingual education, need to explore ways to avoid placing language minority students in programs that contribute to dropping out and need to examine state policies that adversely affect LEP students (e.g., exit exams for graduation, remedial ESL classes).

With these, it is a challenge among educators to devise learning materials, and to create a teaching strategy that would meet the needs of L2 learners.

References:
Diaz-Rico, L. and Weed, K. (1995). The Crooscultural Language and Academic Development Handbook. Massachusetts: Allyn& Bacon Company

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MPSPC president must resign

READERS CORNER
Richard F. Kiaki

BONTOC, Mountain Province -- Resign! This had been the clamor of Mountain Province State Polytechnique College students, their families, relatives and friends addressed to MPSPC president Dr. Nieves Dacyon.

In the court of public opinion, they unanimously voted, to sentence you to be executed at the gallows. Even local politicians, province wide, enacted resolutions asking for your head to roll, to ultimately end the controversy at MPSPC.

Incidentally, time seems to be on your side. Time apparently favors you or maybe you are just lucky, but then, the controversy you created will not just go away as sooner, it could be decided by Malacanang.

Nonetheless, you still have two choices, madam president, either you exit gracefully with your head held up high, or you exit disgracefully with the stigma of shame and that of your family.

With your irrevocable resignation, you can pack your things and go home, to plant the biggest camote and voila, everybody would be happy.

With this, MPSPC can normalize its operation, and the pathetic students who suffered the brunt of the controversy you created, that messed up their chance, to graduate this year, will be ecstatic because finally a green light is there, to signify the resumption of their disrupted classes.

The physical and mental fatigue that saps the energy will end. Even your family, relatives and friends, madam president, will start to relax. Are you happy seeing your children grow up as butt of jokes, emanating from your stubbornness to cling to your position like a leech sucking for more blood?

Even your former benefactor Rep. Josephine Dominguez had said, “Napintas ta nagresign ta kaasi met dagitiestudyantengamaisakripisyo,” made me think twice.

Madam President, I don’t know you from Adam. My better half, your relative, supplied me the data that you came from a decent, respected and God-fearing family in Kayan, Tadian, Mt. Province.

With your upright rearing, I strongly believe that you’re a woman of good character. Just like the rest of us, you have care and concern for the welfare and well-being of the students of MPSPC.

I am confident, that you’ll do a heroic act to end this controversy and allow the students to pursue their education.

Madam President, I tipped my hat, when I learned that you tendered your resignation last July l, 2011, for by doing so, you educated the Filipino nation , that in Mt. Province, we value our dignity and honor just like the Japanese, who commit seppuko or harakiri when their honor or dignity is breached.

I know that I’m not qualified to convey you an advice, because, it’s a fact, that even my own self, I couldn’t teach. However, this is a suggestion if you allow me, to end this controversy whereby every stakeholder is happy.

Here under madam, are my suggestions: talk to the authorities of CHED, to transfer you to another school or promote you to a higher position as a reward for stepping down and seek assistance/support from Rep. MaximoDalog to espouse your cause in case the going gets rough.

You may go straight to the rallying students and reconcile with them apologizing for disruption of their dreams. Talk to them in a maternal way and they’ll understand. If you do these, madam, you’ll be remembered in their hearts.

co

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Besao is beautiful

A TOUCH ON TOURISM
Ramon Pacyaya Doyayag

The golden sun sitting atop historical Tirad Pass is the well known and beautiful Besao Sunset. In this Pass a young Filipino General and most of his men were murderously killed by American soldiers decades ago. Behind the mountain peak is the China Sea where the sun daily takes a bath soothing itself of its twelve hours day time travel. Truly that wonderful sunset is a must to watch and catch while in Besao.

Besao is the western most municipality of Mountain Province. It is eight kilometers west of the tourists’ haven Sagada, the birthplace of my uncle Alfredo Pacyaya, who bequeathed his journalism knowhow to my nephew, the publisher/editor of this newspaper.

The politically hot provinces of Ilocos Sur and Abra bound Besao on the east. In the North is a vast forested area where the hunters of Kalinga and Montanosa meet during the hunting season months. And in the south is Tadian town of Gawis ay Mountain Province.
***
Let’s walk to Barangay Gueday where the published stone calendar of Besao is located. In the yard of dap-ay Dayocan here, you may sit or stand on a piece of stone then look at the eastern horizon. There in Mount Pilao are two rocks facing each other. Exactly in between those rocks the morning sun rises every September 30. This announces the first day of sowing rice seeds by the farmers of Northern Besao namely barangays Lacmaan, Agawa, Gueday, and Ambagiw (LAGA).

On this day too, almost all the households in LAGA cook linapet (their version of siopao), it is customary that when in iLAGA brings linapet to relatives/friends elsewhere in Besao he/she is given something edible in return. It can be dried fish, canned goods, bread, smoked pork (etag), etc.

Many visitors go around LAGA on this special occasion purposely for the linapet. Mark the date and come for the feast. It’s no joke, it’s “eat all you can” of the linapet for all visitors. Viewing the glow of the rising sun which is part of the stone calendar helps in reading the Besao stone calendar.

There are numerous windowless dap-ays in Besao Proper which include Besao East and Besao West barangays. Visitors may smoke themselves at night in these dap-ays completely free of financial obligations. By the way, dap-ays are for males only.

Thus, female visitors may take advantage of the spacious and clean rooms of Mamoli Hotel in Barangay Kin-iway, locally known as Besao Improper because it’s here where the district hospital, municipal hall and the different government offices are situated instead of Besao Proper. “Wanna guide?” Contact Rapadom Catengan, Besao.

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Tormented Michael Jackson turns to drugs to alienate self

Was Michael Jackson running away from himself? What were his fears? His dependence on prescription drugs must have told extreme pain since he started getting pain killers in 1993 following child molestation charges. Drug addiction was again much pronounced when he went through relatively the same charges in 2003 till the day he died.

What might have been the cause of Michael Jackson’s drug problem apparently took a huge toll on the pop icon one of which might have been his nearly $500 million debt and his previous child molestation charges. Seemingly enabled by people around him, Michael Jackson continued to take drugs which ultimately led to his death.

Drug addiction counselor and author Oscar Bamuhigire, has this to say about Michael Jackson’s drug addiction to pain killers.

“Michael Jackson suffered from one of the worst forms of mental illness, referred to in psychiatry as alienation of the existential self. It was primarily because of this mental illness that he became a drug addict.”

Drug addiction counselor Oscar Bamuhigire commented “alienation of the self is a severe form of self destruction, physical and mental illness.”

Bamuhigire, with more than 12 years of experience as a drug and alcohol addiction counselor says, “In the field of alcoholism and drug addiction treatment, there have always been questions for which there were no satisfactory answers: Is substance abuse a problem of discipline or a disease? Why is it that most alcoholics/ drug addicts do not seek for, or receive treatment? Why is it that only 5- 10% of alcoholics/ drug addicts respond to treatment? Why do untreated addicts have a better chance at breaking the bond of addiction than addicts who get treated? Why has the incidence of recovery without the help of formal treatment continued to rise? Are the successes of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A) nothing more than spontaneous remission?”

Bamuhigire asks, " Why are some people able to quit their addiction without treatment, while others only get worse after treatment? Why does treatment have a negative effect? Why are some treatment programs more effective than others? Why has the world continued to experience a steady increase in the rate of addiction and self destruction? Why is it that 1 in 2 Americans has a diagnosable mental disorder each year, and 81 Americans commit suicide every day? Why do non-Hispanic blacks bear a disproportionate burden of disease, injury, death, and disability? Why do the most successful treatment programs for addicts have a spiritual component? Why do non white people suffer from a high rate of substance abuse and self destruction? Why does Africa have the highest rate of suicide, poverty, and disease in the world?"

In a unique blend of psychology, psychiatry, metaphysics, medicine, orient and western religions, Oscar Bamuhigire provides answers to these and many more questions in The Healing Power Of Self Love. In making his revolutionary contribution to the scientific world, he also explains how addicts can enhance their chances of recovery from addiction through the treatment programs of their choice, by utilizing the ancient tools of discipline, lateral thinking, and insight from the life experiences of the world’s greatest leaders.

Even though this book was initially designed to meet the needs of alcoholics and drug addicts in treatment, it may be of great value to people who are struggling with other types of addiction, and those who are faced with major obstacles to their self-realization or self actualization, Bamuhigire said. The author may be reached at obamuhigire@yahoo.com. /By Gina Dizon

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Ilocos fest on to recall separation from Spanish gov’t

VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur- Local officials here headed by Gov. Deogracias Victor “DV” Savellano has started celebrating a weeklong activities called “Kannawidan,” an Ilocano term which means “Feast of all heritages, practices, and local products.”

The festival is in commemoration of Ilocos Sur's separation from the administration of the Spanish government by Virtue of Royal Decree on Feb. 2, 1818 or 191 years ago to be exact.

Gov. Savellano said the celebration will highlight various activities particularly the promotion of tourism by presenting of talents, indigenous costumes and local products that produced in Ilocos Sur.

“Exposing these heritages to others will definitely strengthen its demand, thus further generating job opportunities and more income to he communities in the province,” said Savellano in his press kits.

The said activities, now on its second year, was sponsored by the provincial government of Ilocos Sur through Gov. Savellano, which aim is to develop Ilocos Sur into an economically-strengthened community and to instill pride to its local citizens with their rich historical value.

Among the programs are the “Libut manggagas pammati,” a religious procession intertwined with history and herigate of Ilocos Sur. This was actually introduced by the Spanish way back in 16th century to numerious churches, shrines and some of these facilities are still existing and visible;

“Partuat ken patanor,” the Trade and Agricultural fair which aims is to highlight the ability and skills of the Ilocanos in making local but unique products.

This also coincides with the Deaprtment of Trade and Industry's “One Town, One Product,” (OTOP), campaign.

The OTOP which is actually being fully supported by Savellano, encourages leaders of every municipality to develop its own specific product, skill or service that would have a competitive edge if not globally competitive.

“Tawid ug-ugali,” is a showcase of cultural dances which reveals glimpses of the depth of Ilocos Sur culture and identity as presented by indigenous cultural communities.

“Ramen ken Raman,” a gustotary feast designed to tose who enjoy the rich and packed flavors of Ilocano food, such as bagnet, longganiza, empanada, igado, among others.

“Talugading ti Ilokano,” which showcase the different talents of Ilokano folk in singing, dancing, palying variuous musical instruments, dramatic performances and others to titillate the public.

Some local shows will be presented,” added Savellano. – Mario T. Supnad

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MENTAL FENGSHUI

• Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

• Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.
• Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.
• When you say, 'I love you,' mean it.
• When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye.
• Be engaged at least six months before you get married.
• Believe in love at first sight.
• Never laugh at anyone's dreams. People who don't have dreams don't have much.
• Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.
• In disagreements, fight fairly... No name calling.
• Don't judge people by their relatives.
• Talk slowly but think quickly.
• When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, 'Why do you want to know?'
• Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
• Say 'God bless you' when you hear someone sneeze.
• When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
• Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.
• Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
• When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
• Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.
• Spend some time alone.

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Healthy eating

Benefits of eating asparagus

Several years ago, I had a man seeking asparagus for a friend who had cancer. He gave me a photocopied copy of an article, entitled, `Asparagus for cancer' printed in Cancer News Journal, December 1979.

I will share it here, just as it was shared with me: 'I am a biochemist, and have specialised in the relation of diet to health for over 50 years. Several years ago, I learned of the discovery of Richard R. Vensal, D.D.S. That asparagus might cure cancer. Since then, I have worked with him on his project. We have accumulated a number of favorable case histories.

Here are a few examples.
Case 1: Man with an almost hopeless case of Hodgkin's disease (cancer of the lymph glands) who was completely incapacitated. Within 1 year of starting the asparagus therapy, his doctors were unable to detect any signs of cancer, and he was back on a schedule of strenuous exercise.

Case 2: A successful businessman, 68, who suffered from cancer of the bladder for 16 years. After years of medical treatments, including radiation without improvement, he went on asparagus. Within 3 months, examinations revealed that his bladder tumor had disappeared and that his kidneys were normal.

Case 3: A man who had lung cancer. On March 5th 1971 he was put on the operating table where they found lung cancer so widely spread that it was inoperable. The surgeon sewed him up and declared his case hopeless. On April 5th he heard about the asparagus therapy and immediately started taking it. By August, x-ray pictures revealed that all signs of the cancer had disappeared. He is back at his regular business routine.

Case 4: A woman who was troubled for a number of years with skin cancer. She finally developed different skin cancers which were diagnosed by a skin specialist as advanced. Within 3 months after starting on asparagus, her skin specialist said that her skin looked fine and no more skin lesions. This woman reported that the asparagus therapy also cured her kidney disease, which started in 1949. She had over 10 operations for kidney stones, and was receiving government disability payments for an inoperable, terminal, kidney condition. She attributes the cure of this kidney trouble entirely to the asparagus.

I was not surprised at this result, as `The elements of materia medica', edited in 1854 by a Professor at the University of Pennsylvania , stated that asparagus was used as a popular remedy for kidney stones. He even referred to experiments, in 1739, on the power of asparagus in dissolving stones.

We would have other case histories but the medical establishment has interfered with our obtaining some of the records. I am therefore appealing to readers to spread this good news and help us to gather a large number of case histories that will overwhelm the medical skeptics about this unbelievably simple and natural remedy. For the treatment, asparagus should be cooked before using, and therefore canned asparagus is just as good as fresh. I have corresponded with the two leading canners of asparagus, Giant Giant and Stokely, and I am satisfied that these brands contain no pesticides or preservatives.

Place the cooked asparagus in a blender and liquefy to make a puree, and store in the refrigerator. Give the patient 4 full tablespoons twice daily, morning and evening. Patients usually show some improvement in 2-4 weeks. It can be diluted with water and used as a cold or hot drink. This suggested dosage is based on present experience, but certainly larger amounts can do no harm and may be needed in some cases.

As a biochemist I am convinced of the old saying that `what cures can prevent'. Based on this theory, my wife and I have been using asparagus puree as a beverage with our meals. We take 2 tablespoons diluted in water to suit our taste with breakfast and with dinner. I take mine hot and my wife prefers hers cold. For years we have made it a practice to have blood surveys taken as part of our regular checkups.

The last blood survey, taken by a medical doctor who specializes in the nutritional approach to health, showed substantial improvements in all categories over the last one, and we can attribute these improvements to nothing but the asparagus drink. As a biochemist, I have made an extensive study of all aspects of cancer, and all of the proposed cures. As a result, I am convinced that asparagus fits in better with the latest theories about cancer.

Asparagus contains a good supply of protein called histones, which are believed to be active in controlling cell growth. For that reason, I believe asparagus can be said to contain a substance that I call cell growth normaliser. That accounts for its action on cancer and in acting as a general body tonic.

In any event, regardless of theory, asparagus used as we suggest, is a harmless substance. The FDA cannot prevent you from using it and it may do you much good. 'It has been reported by the US National Cancer Institute, that asparagus is the highest tested food containing glutathione, which is considered one of the body's most potent anticarcinogens and antioxidants. – John Trideman

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READER's CORNER

Philian Weygan
Growing up in Baguio

My work demand travels but wherever I go, I come back home to Baguio where memories of my growing up remain one of my fondest thoughts of home. My mom told me "Nan puseg mo naikali isna sirok nan ba-ey" meaning my birth bag was buried under the old house in Magsaysay.

I was born with my umbilical cord wrapped around my neck but Dr. Calogne and mom delivered me without accident, which my parents say it is a blessing. My sister has letters of mom and dad that related that as a baby I was brought to Besao when my dad went to briefly work and study in Manila. He sent me baby shoes during my birthday, send us eggs when he was in Baguio.

Growing up with my siblings, I remember my mom would plant watercress in the crystal clear Balili River. She would put John and me on top of a stone and we watch while she works. Later, John was able to learn to swim just being around my mother working. My older brother and sister frequent Parapad in Ambiong for swimming. I contend myself with a shower from a spring that comes out from the edge of our property.

At a young age, love of work, discipline and goal setting were values that were made known to us. In our land we have home vegetable garden together with bananas, avocado, guavas. But later on sayote took over a greater part of the property. Quirino Hill was a forest and after the rains we would go and pick mushrooms. At that time mom, my aunt and some cousins cleared portions as "uma" were they planted camote, corn and other root crops.

During harvest, we the kids were allowed to go and help but most of the time they build us a fire and we would cook camote and corn buried in the coals. Those were etched in my memory. Then we would help carry the produce down the mountains, but it was more like rolling them down as my older brother taught us. My mom would say we will break the camote by doing that and maybe we did, but as kids we never cared.

When we had extra bananas or corn, mom would allow us to peddle them in the neighborhood and so we had extra money. Our parents would give us piggy banks and also envelops where to put our monies. Sometimes she saves it for something to buy for us like clothes, toys and books. At that time there were only few houses, cars and a lot of spaces in out neighborhood which spans from Sayote island, Ambiong, Happy Homes, Quirino Hill and Camdas. Resurrection Church was still part of our neighborhood and we hear the church peal every morning, noon and at Angelus.

We went to a neighborhood school Lucban Elementary School and we loved it. In Kindergarten, whenever I get back from being absent I would only go if my dad would accompany me and speak to my teacher. By fourth grade I was sometimes allowed to bring my lunch and sometimes we would go to the house of Benilda Zaragoza. Her mom would serve us soup too.

My playground widened as I was allowed to play after school. I remember being in the house of the Udasco home, the Caoili's, the Alipio's, the Penera's, Jocson's, Idio's, and Villalba's. It was a happy childhood spent with classmates and siblings. Part of it was spent in house chores like scrubbing the floor, sweeping the yard, watering plant, feeding the chickens, the rabbits, harvesting sayote. It was when we were older that more responsibilities were given like washing clothes and cooking.

My wonderful stay in Lucban ended when I had a boxing match with the bully of my sister. It was a fad for pupils to have fistfights in the foot of Quirino Hill (we called it Carabao Mountain then) and I was not spared. I challenged the bully of my sister and landed her a black eye and before she could hit me I fell into a ravine.

The next morning we were in the principal's office. That time I told my parents I do not want to go to school anymore. They consoled me that we will transfer the next year so we just had to finish the school term. So by the Grade six we were transferred to Easter School, I was already the eldest as both my older sister and brother were already in High School.

That widened our playground to Guisad, Bokawkan, Dizon and Pinsao. Dad would bring us to school in his Ford and in the afternoon we would ride a service jeep with the Mendozas, the Balaos of Pico. Sometimes we were late for the jeepney service after we have to clean the classrooms and we tarry by the brook side of Guisad catching jojo and bayek. We would be home near dusk because we took time playing along the least traveled roads, catching butterflies and crickets, picking flowers and weeds and simply taking time to enjoy nature as daylight catches up with nigh time.

Sundays were the days we wake up the earliest, finish our chores, take a bath, breakfast and church service. Sometimes we go to Burnham Park for a picnic and run till we drop. It was so clean, so wide and so beautiful with all the flowers and butterflies of many colors. Sometimes Dad would have church meeting and so we end up eating cookies baked by the family of Fr. Alejandrino Rulite while we climb up and down the trees of the church compound.

Baguio was a perfect place to spent childhood. Then the '70s came and it was high school. It would be another story to tell. When I remember Mom whose death Anniversary is September 19, I remember my wonderful childhood - Baguio circa '60s.

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Holding a canao in Malacanang
ESTHER DAWN PACLIM

Because women can do everything, now is the season to do so. They might do the country good by going to Malacanang and do a canao. This is suggested to 200 or so and to a few good men, who celebrated the International Women’s Day at the newly built LTB gymnasium where they could invoke God’s mercy with the power of prayer.

La Trinidad, Benguet Mayor Artemio Galwan said in the light of the present political and social turmoil, in some probability, the Philippines must have fallen under a curse spelled by Manuel L. Quezon when he said that he would rather see the Philippines ruled like hell by the Filipinos than like heaven by Americans.

The mayor noted that the state of the Philippines is now in some kind of prophecy -- the Philippines under one president after another either has actually been ruled like hell or has been attacked by hell from all sides.

The mayor, who is serving his first term, said that women should not underestimate what they can do. They can do another Indira Gandhi, Golda Meier, or Margaret Thatcher in their own little special ways.

He added that the role of women has changed tremendously in that they have become assertive – a reason for them not to pity themselves. In fact they have so much power in their hands that they can make or unmake a nation; can bring about the motherly leadership this nation desperately needs; can uphold the persistence and wisdom that brings peace; and, can found the solid leadership that begets a solid nation.

With our kind of Ibaloi women power, the canao they may perform in Malacanang might dissipate the curse that has fallen on Philippine governance. In the Benguet hinterlands, a ritual, the canao, is performed to dispel curse.

However, such power must be handled with care, the mayor advised. He added that as good citizens, they must not launch out to destroy the nation but should properly exercise such power gained.

Vice-Mayor Samuel Esguerra shared to the same group of women that through the years, LTB women have gone a long way and have gained leadership prominence in governance as elected officials and office heads.

To mention a few: Priscilla Baban has earned the distinction of being the town’s first lady councilor who went on to become first lady vice-mayor. Cecily Laoyan-Sagubo was a councilor, Josephine Gacad was a councilor who also became vice mayor while Edna C. Tabanda was councilor, then became first lady mayor, then later made it to become Benguet’s first number two highest official.
Rosemarie Dulnuan, the occasion’s guest speaker, said that indeed, strength and power can be drawn from prayer and silence, in that the practice could unite and benefit the nation. Prayer and silence give the nation time to calculate how it can appropriately surmount the odds. And why not, why do we not become a nation of prayer?

Ms Dulnuan, who herself is a well-accomplished businesswoman and pharmacist, said that solving our nation’s turmoil boils down to ourselves –to what we can do as individuals to the kind of value system we develop and to the quality of perception and thoughts we develop.

Spearheaded by the La Trinidad municipal social welfare development office and Women’s Federation, the International Women’s Day was celebrated with the theme: “CEDAW ng Bayan, Yaman ng Kababaihan.” CEDAW is an acronym for Convention on the Elimination of
Discrimination against Women.

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GLIMPSES

The Church in the People

NONNETTE C. BENNETT

ABATAN, BUGUIAS, Benguet -- This busy town north of La Trinidad and at the crossroads of Halsema Highway will host the most beautiful church in the Cordilleras thanks to its 43 Basic Ecclesial Communities. This is what the church is, the church in the people more than in the physical façade of a building.

There is reason for the people to be proud because for seven years now, they have continually raised the necessary funds to see their dream parish church come to reality. In fact, they have begun to give tithes to support the financial needs of the operations in the construction of their church.

Lino Dopiano, 40, the Parish Pastoral Council president, said that the members started giving tithes last year to support the food that they served the volunteers who gave free labor to the construction. He said that the PPC was engaged in several fund raising activities that raised the necessary funds for the church and the high school facilities that were part of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help church in Abatan. He explained that the five-storey building also housed the San Isidro High School in the lower floors.

Pedro Bestre, 71, one of the first PPC presidents said that among the means of raising funds were raffles, "tambiolo" or number draws, second collections, and the tithes. He noted that sometimes the Sunday collection would go as far as the third collection when special needs arose from the church construction. Bestre said that the raffles needed a lot of preparation and had a higher overhead cost compared to the "tambiolo" draws. According to him, it was the women who designed this particular type of fund raising.

Betsy Inciong, 45, Secretary of the Parish Finance Council, explained that the women decided to sell numbers in the "tambiolo" which merely required that they print out two sets of numbers that they gave to the number buyer and one for their copy. During draw dates, pingpong balls were drawn to determine the winning numbers. She said that the only cost was the paper and the prizes, the net income for the construction was bigger. She said that the recent January draw gave the church fund almost P350,000. Many people were willing to contribute to the funds through these types of activities.

Bishop Carlito J. Cenzon, CICM, DD, during the thanksgiving celebration last February 3, told the people that the people had a reason to be happy because soon the Cordilleras would be flooded with overflowing love from many donors and sponsors to their church. He explained that since the beginning of the Bishop's Cup Golfing For-a-Cause project which was inspired by the request of the BECs in Abatan, more and more people have placed Abatan in "the map of their hearts". He said that now, more and more people were willing to help the church project because the people themselves were showing the world that they were helping themselves.

Bishop Cenzon had raised funds for the church through golf tournaments that were held and also sponsored in Baguio Country Club and the Camp John Hay Golf Club. Bishop Cenzon had introduced Ireneo Pama, a representative of the Asahi Glass Company that had volunteered to donate the window panes for the church. He said that the needs of the church were being given in kind by other generous companies when they learn of the community efforts.

The parish church was first built in 1961 and the land donated by Gavino Bay-an and Basilio Tumpap Jr. The first parish priest was Fr. Jose Waterschot who was assigned by the late Msgr. William Brasseur.

Eduardo Apolonio, 62, Overseer of the Construction and former Vice-Governor, said that there were so many volunteers in the construction that sometimes makes it difficult to manage. He said that even if they requested that only two or three persons from the different zones come to work in shifts, there are still more than four who participate daily.

Architect and consultant Bismark Paran said that the church was estimated to be only 70% complete. There was more work to be done in the church. He also had no deadline for the project because after the church, the community would also rebuild the former house of the priests into a modern building that could also accommodate the visitors of their parish.

Bishop Cenzon remarked that this was truly what the new church was. It was the church of the people who responded to their own needs and concerns. The church here was self-sufficient because the people were themselves the church that was being built.

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The heritage town of Kiangan
(First part of a series)
GLO A. TUAZON

KIANGAN, Ifugao – Kiangan is an old town, the oldest in the province of Ifugao. The name Kiangan evolved from the term Kiyyangan, the name of the ancient village that it used to be, located astride the Ibulao River. It is a name often told in their folk tales to be the dwelling place of Kabigat and Bugan, the mythological ancestors of the Ifugaos.

Kiangan is just one rural town but unknown to most outsiders, is very rich in history. From the welcome sign just across the Ibulao bridge, you might perceive a sleepy town, searing hot when the eye of the day rises as red as blood.

Beyond that sign is a place where the spirit dances and memories persist. Not far ahead starts the long winding road to the town proper, passing along the ever present terraces along the way. Reaching Poblacion and going around the seemingly silent route is a totally different story, all in one stretch of road.

In the history of the province, Kiangan is the seat of Ifugao government since 1889 until 1949, spanning sixty years from the Spanish to the American and Japanese era. It was also the center of commerce and education to the post war years until it was finally moved to Lagawe in 1949.
The Philippine war history would not be complete without the town asserting its right as one of the strongholds of resistance in the north during WWII. The Kiangan War Memorial Shrine was built in 1974 to commemorate the Filipino and American soldiers who died in that war.

The edifice is located in Sitio Linda, Barangay Poblacion just a few hundred meters away from their municipal hall. The memorial was constructed of steel and concrete and embedded with a huge wood carving depicting war scenes, making brothers of Filipinos and Americans who died side by side defending the land from the elite forces of the Japanese Imperial Army then led by the “Tiger of Malaya”. Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita who surrendered to the Fil-Am forces on September 2, 1945. At the back of the edifice are twin stairs on either side spiraling up to a tower three floors up on a deck overlooking the area surrounding it. And the view stretches to the town of Lagawe and
the mountains around it.

The Kiangan Shrine is a well maintained lot, the manicured lawns spanning the length and width of the entire grounds to include the outdoor stage and the Ifugao Museum just a few steps across the memorial. The museum displaying relics and memorabilias of their history and heritage.
Take a tricycle ride and alight at Teachers’s Avenue still in Barangay Poblacion. An old wooden building stands big and imposing. The white paint turning cream with weather and use, warping in some places. It is a straight rectangular structure, with windows dotting the façade and the hallways echoing the voices and footsteps of children. Who else knows what echoes there when school is out and the children are not there?

You can feel the silence stretching all the way to the other end. In the Home Economics room of this school was where Gen. Yamashita and his command staff made the unconditional surrender on September 2, 1945. From here the “Tiger” was taken along with his men to Camp John Hay in Baguio City via Bagabag, Nueva Viscaya and La Union. The next day Sept. 3, 1945 in Baguio, he signed his formal surrender of the Japanese Imperial Army to the Philippines and Allied Forces.
Walk a little further along and on the left side is the Ifugao Academy and the UCCP Church, both very well antiqued and story laden too. In 1926, the Ifugao Academy was built and founded by Myrtle M. Metzger. He was an American missionary who came over and fell in love with the land and its people, he then started Protestantism in this place and in the records this school was the first High School ever in Ifugao.

Way up along is the so called Million Dollar Hill (Upper Poblacion). Story goes that the Americans poured in almost a million dollars to be able to conquer the hill during the war, hence the name. In the war years this hill was dotted with foxholes and trenches and tunnels made by the Japanese Army in their retreat to the mountains going to Hungduan and Wangwang, Tinoc, Ifugao.
Along the route is the Yamashita trekking trails today just across the junction to Barangay Nagacadan. This trail by the way is now one favorite trekking site, spanning about 30 kilometers of forested and terraced areas. The rice terraces of Nagacadan are also wonders to behold along with those of Bae.

In Sitio Bae, Barangay Ambabag also stands the Uhat Mission Site established by Fr. Jose Lorenzo in 1864. This is the very first Roman Catholic Mission in Kiangan under the Spanish rule. Nearby is the marvelous Ambuwaya Lake. Move to Barangay Julongan and you get to the Spanish Hill, named so as this is the place where the Spaniards erected a garrison after settling in the area. These are just some of the historical sites in Kiangan, but almost everywhere you go, there is one more story to tell and a sight to marvel at.

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A forgotten village
GLORIA A. TUAZON

TINGLAYAN, Kalinga -- Traversing the long, winding road from Poblacion, Bontoc past Sadanga to Bugnay, Tinglayan in the early morning is exhilarating. Everything is fresh and green, too vivid that it makes the mountains come alive. It seemed too peaceful that those who knew the past would cringe and shudder at the thought. It is serenely beautiful, everything like postcard pictures.

We came to a bend where the old lookout nook was perched. Just a small galvanized iron sheet square of a hut with a door and a small window, maybe good enough for three people to stand in. This used to be the place where they stood guard to watch for intruders, during the days when tribal
wars were everyday concerns, late 70s to its dwindling days in the dawn of the 90s.

It is hard to believe that such serene places like these used to be battlegrounds of sorts. But today I delved in it, I fell in love with the mountains and the silence of the land, it screamed freedom.

Beside the lookout is the welcome sign to Kalinga, with invitations to visit the splendid place. The signage is almost invisible, the paint all warped up and washed out by the weather. Nevertheless it did not dampen my spirit, I came alive with anticipation and gratitude that I was able to set foot in this place.

From up high on the main road we were looking down a small village perched at the bossom of the mountain across us. Just a small village safely located above the mighty Chico River. It was the only spot with a change of color and scenery from the green of the mountains. We trooped down the mountain floor to cross the hanging bridge connecting the main road to the village then took the pathways though the scattered rice fields up to their homestead, a steep climb up.

My fascination grew and my slit, squinting eyes sparkled and darted about at the scene. This I say is rugged territory -- everything raw and simple. Small traditional thatched houses, most out of bamboo slats and cogon grass roofs, some though have improved to include GI sheets and concrete walls.

The place is achingly raw and basic that the whole community only shares two common bathrooms and toilets. The water supply is abundant, coming from a deep well manually pumped way beside the bathrooms. The houses are built close to each other that if you open a window you are looking into the interior of the next house, leaving only a narrow pathway for “road rights”.

What fascinated me the most were the tiny black, pot-bellied pigs. Almost every household has them, and they prowl the village like dogs, snorting at people with their tummies scraping the ground. Comes evening and they go home to “roost” and be fed.

The sight is comforting in a certain kind of way, down home I say. A far off thing from the city where convenience is at my feet.

This is a place where you could live off on two pairs of shirt and not worry about your looks. Aesthetics has no place here, as beauty gleams off from the rough, thick hands of people who work the earth, from the toothy, genuine smile of sharp eyes silently probing you.

Contrary to stories I’ve heard these people are hospitable. And I learned to only eat a little portion when offered food or drinks to be able to accommodate all the food and coffee offers handed to us. Declining an offer would mean an insult to them I was explained, so visitors have to adjust to that. But their coffee is one of the best I’ve tasted yet.

Home-roast coffee beans pounded daily (as with their daily rice supply), the aroma reaching you before the tin cups were ever filled with the steaming concoction. Since city comfort is a world away, they grow their own rice and stock it in granaries. They also grow corn, sweet potatoes, coffee and some vegetables.

They raise swine and dogs and chickens too. The surrounding mountains still provide them with a once in awhile supply of hunted, wild animals. As also a steady supply of dried wood for cooking and lumber for house repairs and constructions. The Chico River down below is an amazing provider of silted sand and stones. And a great recreation site for swimming and picnicking along the banks.

Bugnay is devastatingly warm, or hot if I may say so because the heat sears the skin -- reason why most of the people here with a few exceptions have tanned skin. Exposure to the sun and the river takes its toll. The villagers are not as tall as their neighboring brothers in the other Kalinga municipalities but they still have the same sharp eyes and prominent cheekbones.

The ridge of their noses as sharp as the mountains surrounding them sometimes curving down like a hawk bill. The people here used to be warriors, and fierce ones at that. History does not lie because they really were headhunters of sorts back then. Then Christianity entered the village nineteen years ago, a group of missionaries from the YWAM community painstakingly converted the people into what they are now.

The small multipurpose hall and church is filled to the brim every worship day. They sing their praises, their voices reaching up, beyond the arid lands up to the skies. So who says people cannot be changed especially with a good and worthy reason?

Treading up and down the village I sat on a small clearing evened out and thinly concreted, my foot tracing some kind of embedded letterings only to read that I was sitting right on the grave of their local hero, Dulag Macliing.

The person who along with his town mates openly opposed the then project of Ferdinand Marcos to dam the Chico River. History has it that his group were hunted down and killed. They opposed the damming for reasons that Bugnay would be obliterated from the map if the project pushed through.

Looking at the grave now, the hero lies silent, right in the middle of the village he helped save. Looking up to the mountains and basking in the glory of the river whistling below.

I just realized that however people tried to measure the pride and prejudice of its people, they have never conquered the soul of the land. It has always thrived in freedom, uncalculated and immeasurable as the daily coming of dawn and hope.

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Remembering Mainit
GLORIA A. TUAZON

BONTOC, Mountain Province -- Mainit is a little known town located atop a mountain, about forty five minutes uphill drive from Poblacion. It is still under the coverage area of this capital town, passing Barangay Guinaang along the way. Riding with the men “top load” on a passenger jeepney, the dot that is Mainit town starts to materialize as Poblacion becomes a vast panorama. The way uphill is stretched in alternating asphalt or concrete to dirt roads.

But all the way up it was beautiful, the roads lined up with pine and shrubs and above us were birds swirling and enjoying the warm sun and light drizzle, like tiny gliders roaming the skies. We picked up school children hitching for rides along the way, and they crammed inside the already fully-packed vehicle, some sitting on welcoming laps or on safe baggages neatly bundled in the middle aisle.

A few minutes and the village started to widen before us and we stopped in awe looking up at the misty mountains, rising white smokes sprouting every which way. They seem to rise out of nothing. Spewing like an eerie omen from half asleep giants under the scorching volcanic grounds. From where we were, the landscape was a patchwork of green rice fields, sugarcane or corn plantations and thatched or plain GI sheet homes. It all looked so simple and remote. Yet something was driving me to hyper curiosity again.

The smell of the stark white columns of sulphuric gas emissions wafts through the air with the occasional gusts of wind, filling my lungs. Looking around I noticed that the village is indeed uncomplicated, like nothing changed much since their grandparents roamed the land. There were only a few improved houses made from concrete.

Along the dirt, narrow pathway to the lodging place was a diminutive store with few merchandise. And then before us was part of the river originating from further uphill. This is now the famed hot-water river of Mainit. Like the smoking tip of a newly fired gun, steaming hot that it could scald an animal in slaughter. Now in the early evening it hisses with the reddish-orange sun diving below the horizon to the west.

People came by, passing us with curious glances. Noticing that most of them have this distinct facial feature, almost angular that their faces come out really sharp. Most chins tapered and their cheekbones were pronounced. Scientist say the people of a land adapt to their habitat, so maybe it has to do with their kind of living and their lineage too. They speak almost the same language as the other Bontoc tribes except from the distinction in diction and pronunciation. They speak with a certain sway, creating unexpected stops at the throat. Mainit as the name implies is a hot place during daytime, but night time is a different story.

It is furiously cold that it seeps through the skin at dawn. So for convenience’ sake and to make the most of what they have each household sourced out hot water and hosed it to their residences, providing them with a steady supply of hot, bathing and washing water. Five in the morning woke me up to the noise of livestock calling out their morning rituals for sustenance. All around was this thick wash of white fog and wet mist, surrounding everything.

It reminded me of Jack the Ripper prowling the streets of London hunting for preys, or of wolves silently appearing from the mists and clawing at unsuspecting victims. These hours, the people would slowly start clanging out pots and kettles to start the day, feed the livestock and head out to the fields or workplaces. Agriculture is the main livelihood in Mainit, tourism having died or to say it bluntly not much supported or sustained. The inhabitants here believed though that it may not be a very good idea to promote the place much, for reasons of destruction of nature and tranquility.

The land indeed thrived for generations as it was, raw and vivid as the faces of its inhabitants. This hilltop village that housed a hundred geysers and hot springs with a background of an almost virgin forest. All green in the canopy of very old trees, covering stretches of mosses and ferns, of exotic orchids hanging from trees and rooting from the moist forest floor. I heard there were a few remaining deer and a lot of birds in different species. I heard too of gold being mined once upon a time but the people had to make the effort to stop it lest it would drive everybody crazy.

Mining these hilltop village would crumble the mountain and the surrounding villages down below would sustain irreparable damages should this happen. To this day, the mining equipments and the once upon a time mill stays a relic, a reminder to everybody that life is more important than a few years of fame and fortune. The main attraction of this place though are the hot springs. From the topmost hill are located the biggest geysers. They are situated along the river line that flows down below. The hilltop is of limestone, a combination of dark and yellowish to almost white consistency. And like an amateur explorer I conclude that this place must have been covered with water eons ago. For the rocks were embedded with fossilized shells.

That perhaps the ocean once owned these territories and gradually dried up in time. Or that through time with the movement of the earth and the rocks down below, the water subsided and went other ways. These cracks and fissures created by the tectonic movements of the earth made way for other minerals to seep through, channeling forces like these sulphuric emissions to come about in Mainit. People here talk of the time Mount Pinatubo erupted and a little amount of dark, foul gas spewed from these crevices and water fountains. So maybe they are all interconnected, the force so great that it reached all the way up to this remote, quiet village. So much wonder in this place, so much mystery. So much untapped beauty that sometimes I agree with the people here that some things are better left untouched.

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CICM centennial celebration in Bontoc
GLO A. TUAZON

BONTOC, Mountain Province --It was a hundred years ago when Christianism first came to the land of the Igorots. A group of mostly Belgian together with a few Dutch priests came to the Mountain Provinces and grown roots here. It was Valentines day in 1906 when the apostolic delegate to the Philippines Msgr. Ambrosius Agius sent a letter of request to Father Adolf Van Hecke who was then the Superior General of the CICM congregation. The Spanish friars who were previously heading the Christian communitites left after the war when the Spaniards were defeated by the Americans and the natives were left without pastoral guides. Aguis appealed to have some missionaries sent in place of the friars. After the conference and consultations with authorities, Pope Pius X gave his blessings to the endeavor.

This new Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe is part of the three vicariates originally created on July 6, 1992 along with that of Baguio and Tabuk, and covers all 10 municipalities of the Mountain Provinces and 11 of Ifugao as well. It is important to note also that the vicariate has spread out 13 stations throughout the coverage area of the 2 provinces to be able to reach out to the parishioners. The vicariate seat however remains in Teng-ab, Bontoc.

So Dec. 12-15, the CICM of Bontoc-Lagawe celebrated its 100th year in existence up north and going by the theme "Remembering, Rerooting, Revitalizing". They are now "Looking back with pride and gratitude, and forging ahead with faith and confidence." The culminating activity was held at the Sta. Rita Cathedral in Poblacion, Bontoc and was well attended. Dec. 13, was the day slated for the street parade and the participating Catholic schools strutted along the humid streets of Bontoc to do their stuff after which they proceeded to the grounds of Sta. Rita Cathedral and the Municipal Plaza for the cultural dance competition.

An exhibit was opened at the Bontoc museum to show the "evolution" of the CICM body throughout the years. The evening would not have been complete without the play and mini concert led by Fr. Marcial Castaneda together with the SMU Bayombong chorale group. The Belgian consul to the Philippines Rene Peeters and his wife graced the events along with Gov. Maximo Dalog and the local officials of Bontoc and the personalities of the Catholic churches from the two provinces. On the evening of Dec. 14, the Apostolic Nuncio Most Rev. Arch. Edward Joseph Adams arrived to help unveil and bless the bust and memorial stones of Fr. Jules Sepulchre. All done with the activities, Bontoc once again rested a day to welcome the upcoming Provincial meet set Dec. 16-20.

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Healing sagging Christmas spirits
GLO A. TUAZON

It was a week ago that a merger of Filipino and Singaporean Christians met to do a mission. It was not unusual but then again it does not happen often. It was a medical-dental-gift giving-prayer mission -- the first two to cleanse the body, the third to cheer the innocent spirits and the fourth to renew the soul.

Five doctors and 21 church members of the BEDOK Methodist Church based in Singapore came over and brought their hearts with them together with medicines, toys, shirts and other goodies. Waiting to meet them were pastors and members of the Good News community of Churches in Baguio City who organized the events.

Volunteer doctors and dentists offered their time and services, so did the clinical instructors and graduating nursing students of Pines City College of Nursing. So with the permission and help of the LGUs and barangay officials from the recipient areas, the project pushed through.

Before them were four destinations they chose to be among the recipients areas. Last Dec. 5, the group trooped like an invading army to Tuel in the municipality of Tublay, Benguet. They were met by a large crowd and were able to accommodate more than 300 patients given the limited time.

The next day was given to Happy Hallow and Upper Dagsian Barangays in Baguio. Combined, the two barangays counted to almost the same number as in Tuel also. December 7 being the last day was dedicated to Monterazzas, Tuding in Itogon, spending half a day to serve more than a hundred people.

During their courtesy call to Mayor Reinaldo Bautista Jr., the Singaporean team was warmly welcomed and presented with the symbolic key of Baguio City. Then wholeheartedly thanked for the services they offered to all the recipient areas. The team even promised a donation of ovaltine, milk and art stuffs and crayons for needy children. According to Baguio City Councilor Isabelo "Popo" Cosalan, who happens to be an associate pastor in The Good News
Community Church, these items are held at the customs office for some reasons.

And a certificate from DSWD, a clearance from Dep-Ed (for the educational materials) and clearances from BFAD (for the ovaltine and milk) are needed for these items to be released. Cosalan hopes these items be released and distributed to needy recipients before Christmas.
How often do we share our hearts? Or our time to do little services like these? It is almost Christmas though we cannot seem to feel it these days with hard times up ahead. Let it be Christmas everyday, little services, a second of our time, a turning of the heart would greatly warm an aching person.

Note: For comments on this article or any interest to help please contact this author at 09175064115 or email at twilight_glo@yahoo.com.

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PITCHING IN

Healing sagging Christmas spirits
GLO A. TUAZON

It was a week ago that a merger of Filipino and Singaporean Christians met to do a mission. It was not unusual but then again it does not happen often. It was a medical-dental-gift giving-prayer mission -- the first two to cleanse the body, the third to cheer the innocent spirits and the fourth to renew the soul.

Five doctors and 21 church members of the BEDOK Methodist Church based in Singapore came over and brought their hearts with them together with medicines, toys, shirts and other goodies. Waiting to meet them were pastors and members of the Good News community of Churches in Baguio City who organized the events.

Volunteer doctors and dentists offered their time and services, so did the clinical instructors and graduating nursing students of Pines City College of Nursing. So with the permission and help of the LGUs and barangay officials from the recipient areas, the project pushed through.

Before them were four destinations they chose to be among the recipients areas. Last Dec. 5, the group trooped like an invading army to Tuel in the municipality of Tublay, Benguet. They were met by a large crowd and were able to accommodate more than 300 patients given the limited time.

The next day was given to Happy Hallow and Upper Dagsian Barangays in Baguio. Combined, the two barangays counted to almost the same number as in Tuel also. December 7 being the last day was dedicated to Monterazzas, Tuding in Itogon, spending half a day to serve more than a hundred people.

During their courtesy call to Mayor Reinaldo Bautista Jr., the Singaporean team was warmly welcomed and presented with the symbolic key of Baguio City. Then wholeheartedly thanked for the services they offered to all the recipient areas. The team even promised a donation of ovaltine, milk and art stuffs and crayons for needy children. According to Baguio City Councilor Isabelo "Popo" Cosalan, who happens to be an associate pastor in The Good News Community Church, these items are held at the customs office for some reasons.

And a certificate from DSWD, a clearance from Dep-Ed (for the educational materials) and clearances from BFAD (for the ovaltine and milk) are needed for these items to be released. Cosalan hopes these items be released and distributed to needy recipients before Christmas.
How often do we share our hearts? Or our time to do little services like these? It is almost Christmas though we cannot seem to feel it these days with hard times up ahead. Let it be Christmas everyday, little services, a second of our time, a turning of the heart would greatly warm an aching person.

Note: For comments on this article or any interest to help please contact this author at 09175064115 or email at twilight_glo@yahoo.com.

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PITCHING IN

Pitching In
JOHANN DACAWI
(Johann is the son of Ramon Dacawi who is now based in Italy. – ed)

Our formula for a perfect Sunday We don't own a car. I haven't got a driver’s license so I don't drive. I remember two years back, before Lukie took the yellow school bus, he asked me why we didn't have wheels. We used a run down bicycle with a kiddy chair at the back while the other kids were driven to school in their parents' cars.

Nevertheless, I am very proud to declare that I am the president of our growing Ferrari fans club here in Italy. We gather every Grand Prix Sunday of Formula One to watch, enjoy, celebrate or console each other if we lose. Club members include a lovely housewife. A five year old boy who, by the age of three, could tell you all the names of the drivers and their nationalities, the teams and their sponsors and all the names of the circuits and their flags. The newest member, a very promising tot, is nine-month old Dylan James. Did I already mention our club is growing?

This Grand Prix season was one of the greatest in the history of Formula One. Rookie Hamilton and the Spy story dominated the headlines. Last Sunday, at the track called Interlagos in Sao Paolo, Brazil, the deciding final race of the season, Ferrari drove a perfect race!

While all the cars were running behind the safety car for the warm up lap, my wife handed over Dylan, who was in a sling, to me. I gently placed him on my back as the cars were now taking their respective places on the grid. On pole was Massa, followed by Hamilton, on the second row were Raikonen and Alonso, and the rest behind them.

There was a knock on the door. It was my sister-in-law Danica, a prospective recruit, and she was just on time. Ica entered the kitchen to help her sister, who was cooking pansit, because later we would celebrate. Everybody was nervous, all eyes were on the TV and asthe red lights went off. . . . ‘twas go go go!

The red cars made a very good start, Massa held his position while his teammate quickly drove to second place.The F1 world forgot Hamilton was a rookie and as a rookie he makes mistakes. On the forth turn he went wide trying to pass team mate Alonso.

Later on, his car would develop a technical problem and placed him last in the standings. Being a Ferraristi, I felt sorry for him. I punched my right fist onto the air and shouted "SI!". A fan member’s finger pushed the back of my head. Noticing it was Lovelyn, I gave her aquestion mark look. She pointed at my back. I didn't know the youngest fan club member had fallen asleep.

Before the cars went in for their first pit stop, the excitement in the living room had not changed. As I was nervously watching, Lovelyn and Danica were seated at the table catching up with their gossip and Lukie found a small ball and started to play football on his own. Lovelyn remembered something important she forgot to do - give Lukie a hair cut. I thought this was a great idea, because I could watch without a ball hitting me and Lukie blocking my view. As Raikonen recorded the fastest lap, someone was pulling my hair!

The baby woke up and wanted to watch. I took him out of the marsupial and placed him on my lap. His eyes were on the two red cars on the TV. At the other corner of the room, a mother and son were arguing. My wife, while snipping away hair, was reminding his young client to stop moving.

I had to put down Dylan when the race was on its half way mark. He started wriggling and threatened to cry when he saw a plastic golf club he wanted to chew on the floor. When I placed him down he grabbed onto my knee for support. After bracing himself, he started to walk. From my estimate, Dylan walked a full seven steps to reach the toy before he fell on his bum. What a marvelous feat! Yet no one congratulated this poor baby for a job well done.

At lap 57, Hamilton was catching up fast. He only needed to finish fifth to become the youngest world champ ever. I was praying Hamilton's car would malfunction again when Lukie started to cry. He was complaining that his haircut was taking up too much of his time, while his mother was now angrily reminding him to sit still. Danica on the other hand was watching us in amazement.

Massa just got out the pit again and Raikonen was ordered to run for 3 more laps before coming in for fuel and tires. When Raikonen was back onto the race track he took the lead.

With ten laps to go, Raikonen was first, followed by Massa then Alonso. Hamilton was at 7th but aggressively targeting 5th place. My son's ordeal was over. He was smiling because hefelt handsome. Without a direct order from my wife, I ran to get the vacuum cleaner and started to take the hair off the floor. When I finished cleaning, Raikonen took the checkered flag and Ferrari won! Only one point singled out Kimi from Hamilton and Alonso, who both had 109 points.

I muted the TV while they were celebrating and spraying the champagne. Everyone was hungry. We were all seated at the table, the pansit was there and tropical juice. After we said grace, we started to eat. Everybody was happy

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