It is an end of an era. For a man who basically was present as Philippine history unfolded from the tumultuous birth pangs of the infantile Republic to the one we have right now.

Lolo Juanito, my paternal grandfather died in 2003. He was born in the same year Manong Johnny was born. Like the latter, my lolo was also in politics as he served as an acting municipal mayor of Giporlos (Eastern Samar, Philippines). But unlike Manong Johnny, Lolo Juanito never saw how Philippine society rapidly developed. I suppose he would have never understood the concept of Facebook.

But Manong Johnny, the man was practically a genius of his own accord. Up until the last moments of his life, he tried to remain actively involved in Philippine politics. By "politics," I mean in its objective, philosophical sense, not the one either badly demonized or trivialized by many. Until recently, he was the chief legal adviser of the incumbent President.

A disputed legacy: from hero to zero real quick

Some people of my age would remember JPE because of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scandal.

But, as someone privileged to have Maning as my tatay, at a young age he instilled in me the foundation of my patriotic values. This included a deep sense on appreciation of our history. As early as Grade 1, he taught me his memories of EDSA '86 and what transpired that led to such historic events. Early at that age, I got acquainted with the pivotal role of Juan Ponce Enrile, who used to be a Minister under the Marcos, Sr. Cabinet, together with Fidel Ramos, and Jaime Cardinal Sin.

Enrile's decision back then led to the ouster of Marcos, Sr. He was hailed as a people's hero, an icon of democracy like Cory Aquino. He managed to maintain this reputation as a people's statesman. He practically lived in the Philippine Senate for years. However, the PDAF scandal befell upon him and majorly changed the public's perception of him. This tendered his being cast in the sidelines forever until he became Marcos, Jr.'s chief legal counsel.

A humble two-cents worth reflection

Our life is and can never be defined by a single event. One day we're hailed as the hero that saved the day. The next day, we might become the problem instead of the solution. I have to remind myself that I really have to learn not to chase for the grand events in life, as these come naturally, alongside tragedies and embarrassing moments. Nevertheless, this reality should never let us be afraid to live, to dare, to struggle, and to celebrate our victories.

JPE can be remembered diversely–depending on the political prism one holds. But for me, I think Enrile was a lucky man more than anything. He won the lottery of time. In our current situation today, especially in the Philippines where mortality rate dramatically dropped from 70 to a waaaaaaay younger age, Enrile was indeed a lucky man to have lived this long. Sadly, he may be unlucky too. If you live too long, you begin to be transformed from hero to villain. Much worse, some may wish ill of you. It may be quite painful to behold too. But what choice do we have? Quoting Sartre, "man is condemned to be free".

So, what can we learn from Manong Johnny?

Well, I am listing a few things I hope are relevant and objective, I will leave the interpretation to your own genius and locus:

1. Shape your own history. In whatever you do, try to leave a mark. Make meaningful relationships, don't be afraid no matter how rowdy it might get.
2. Master a craft. Be known by being good in something.
3. Don't chase love. But, just be ready once it knocks on your door. Make the most out of it. If it takes you a lifetime to do it, well, congrats.
4. Grow. Try to live beyond what bounds you unnecessarily. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying forget about being Ilocano or Catholic or a pianist. But you must transcend these, and you'll discover that there is more to life than ascriptions and labels. After all, no one, including yourself can impede your growth once you choose to do it.
5. Be sharp. Try to learn to read and write more. We might not be as lucky as Old Johnny Enrile as there might be no one willing to write our legacy, except us. Be critical always, we can't afford to take truths at face value.
6. But in all that has been said, perhaps, the best lesson, and the closest to Enrile's legacy which we can emulate is this: Be disruptive when necessary. There are things bigger than us. Always. For some, it may be family, to others, the country, to others, the Faith. Whatever that may be in our case, there are only few moments where we will be asked to be decisive–to rise above the situation and more seldomly, lead in the pursuit of change. Of course, we will get hate and/or love for it, some will question our loyalty, our values, our orthodoxy. But, when you are in that decisive moment where you have to stand for what you believe in, these things matter less if they do not matter at all.

A sincere gratitude to the man

In closing, well, at first I do not intend to do this article as tribute to Juan Ponce Enrile. But, undeniably, JPE was a historic man, as he actively shaped some of our country's important histories. So, in a way, I offer Minister/Senate President/Atty Enrile my sincere gratitude for his service to the Philippines.

The post In memoriam – Juan Ponce Enrile appeared first on Tamang Usapan Podcast.

Bihira akong makapagsimba na hindi distracted, madalas sa rubrics kasi ako nakatingin (if you know, you know). But this time, it felt different. I approached the altar with inner trembling. The typhoon reminded me of my rightful place in the universe. Before the random and unmerciful power of nature, I am merely contingent. One day I’m around. The next day I could be gone in an instant. Conscious of this, I can’t help but pray to God for those affected by the calamities in the Visayas. I also pray for the entire country, exhausted by politico-informational warfare.

A little reflection to share

Just to share a little reflection. Lest I forget, primarily, it’s for me.

We celebrate this Sunday the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, or more formally, the Papal Archbasilica of the Savior, the oldest among the major basilicas, hailed as the “mater et caput omnium ecclesiarum,” the Mother and head of all churches throughout the world. Hearing the First Reading and the Responsorial Psalm, the Holy Spirit led me to reflect.

With no intention to preach, I just want to share the following:

Vidi aquam... Et omnes ad quos pervenit aqua ista, salvi facti sunt

The First Reading was taken from the prophecy of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12). The popular Easter Gregorian Chant “Vidi Aquam” was also derived from this prophecy. There, Ezekiel prophesied of water overflowing from the Temple, at lahat nang inabot ng tubig ay naligtas!

With a heavy heart, it reminded me of how flood waters rage. They destroyed homes, livelihoods, and claimed lives in our country. Here, on the otherhand, the Scriptures tell about another type of water that overflows from the presence of God. This water brings about healing and salvation. That water is no other than Christ–the Life-giving Water himself.

Don't get me wrong, I do not want to merely spiritualize what is currently happening in our country. But, I believe it’s important to remind each other to stay rooted in faith. We should refrain from engaging in meaningless fights in social media over politics, beliefs, preferences, ideologies, etc.

God is our refuge

This brings us to my second point. The Psalm of the day was Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9:

God is our refuge and our strength,
an ever-present help in distress.
Therefore, we fear not, though the earth be shaken
and mountains plunge into the depths of the sea...

The LORD of hosts is with us;
our stronghold is the God of Jacob...

Be still and know I am God.

Comforting words in times of calamity and gentle reminder to stay rooted in Christ’s love “which surpasses all human understanding”.

Wala lang, sharing lang. Hope hindi siya preachy. Kasi wala akong faculty at moral ascendancy to do it. Just sharing how sharp God’s Word is. It pierces directly to the heart beyond our control.

A call for (genuine) unity

Let’s continue to be sensitive to what is going on around us. Let us listen more and speak less. Let us listen to what nature tells us. We should also listen to what our kababayans say.

Siguro panahon na para isantabi natin ang regional/ethnic, political, and religious differences natin. Maging sensitive tayo sa pangangailangan ng mga bata (sila ang future natin). Let’s also be sensitive to the voice of God within us in our conscience. This way, we can discern and decide on what truly matters in life.

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“A woman of valor who can find? For her price is far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10)

Two years ago, I couldn’t find time to properly grieve the loss of this great woman in my life. Indeed, she reflects this quote from the Book of Proverbs. My Lola Celia was indeed, a woman of valor. Matapang. Magiting. And let me share with you friends a piece of “Herstory”.

Lola Celia's story

At 19 she finished college with flying colors and immediately entered the teaching profession which she faithfully embraced for more than 40 years until her retirement in 2006. My lola was a Science teacher at Marcial O. Rañola Memorial School (MORMS) in Travesia, Guinobatan, Albay. She was well loved and respected in that School.

When she was a young girl, she went to an all-girls school in Legazpi - St. Agnes. Among the things she learned growing up was the piano. Originally, she wanted to be a lawyer. But her parents would not approve of it saying that Law is a "man’s profession." Instead, she was sent to study Education.

Eventually she married my Lolo Pedro (ewan ko kung bakit Pedro, pero Angel ang tunay na pangalan niya e). He was a farmer and, apparently, a strict disciplinarian.

My Lola's valor

A woman of valor who can really find? Lola has been through hardships in life, especially in marriage. Well, with all due respect to Lolo, he was not quite the ideal husband. He had the tendency to be physically abusive, especially when drunk. Lola had to endure all those years until Lolo passed away in 1998.

A woman of valor who can find? A teacher with no ambition to rise through the ranks, but still given the highest position her eligibility and competence can reach. Her co-teachers would enjoin her to take up Master’s degree and attend trainings to gather “certificates” to get promoted. But for her, being a teacher was the only rank she needed and the teaching is the reward itself. Many of us, including me, might not be even able to fathom such kind of ethos. Perhaps, some of us in this period of time would consider her naive if not foolish.

Yet with such commitment to education, she managed to send all her children to school while tending to one of them with special needs. Up until her last moments, she was worrying about that kid, our Tito Bong.

Eve after retirement, she continues to be a woman of valor

Fast forward, after retiring from teaching, she still practiced what she preached. She knew every healthy herbal concoction and relied on such. She barely took pharmacy meds. More importantly, my Lola, a woman of valor, chose to offer her pension and retirement pay. She did this to support my mother and her siblings. She dedicated a small chunk of her retirement pay to renovating what we can call our ancestral home. It was that humble household where she raised her kids with only one room. That house/faculty room where she prepared lesson plans and visuals by the light of the “gasera”. 

She somehow managed to build a small study house made of concrete, barely cement finished. Although it never had electric connection nor did it have water connection. We draw water from the old bomba/poso with extra lumot-flavor. Hehe don’t get me wrong it’s clean. Probably cleaner than today’s Nawasa.

But you know what, friends? Despite having a concrete house, she never slept there. That really made me wonder as to that house’s purpose. Now I realize perhaps she intended that house for us. It was meant for her grandkids to have a proper place to stay on summer vacations with her in Bicol.

She continued to sleep in her old home just beside the concrete house until that hut was destroyed by Typhoon Reming in 2009. While it was tragic, it was a miracle she survived that catastrophe unharmed even after the old wall of the hut fell on to her. A woman of valor who can find?

The most important memory I have of my Lola

But on the deepest personal level, there is one memory of my Lola which I wish I will never forget no matter where life would lead me. In 2008, probably my last happy summer vacation in Bicol (after this, my travel to Bicol was no longer the same, well for another story), Lola learned of my ardent desire to enter the seminary. She knew it back when I was young. She knew how heartbroken I was because I was not allowed to enter Minor Seminary. This was only because we were poor, and I had no sponsor to help with the enrollment.

During this time I was a sophomore in high school, and I just discovered the Breviary. I badly “wanted” one. Yes. Wanted, kasi di ko pa naman talaga need. Hahaha and Lola learned of this. One afternoon, she secretly slipped me a 500 peso bill in my hand and told me to buy that breviary I so wanted in the Paulines Shop in Old Albay. Later I found out it was too costly, so I never had a breviary until later. But I will never forget the gesture.

There are so many things I would like to write of Lola Celia. I want to share this to keep her memory alive. She may not have received any recognition from the State or the Church. However, once you read this, you will learn about someone great and humble.

Unfortunately, in her last years, the old house in Guinobatan was totally destroyed and she had to live with Tita Rachel, her second child. There, she drew her final breath on October 2, 2023.

Her memory lives in my heart

Lola is gone and the very concrete reminder of her is gone too. What remained, which I believe I bear in my heart, was her strong Catholic Faith. I learned her music, though it was not perfect, in the seminary. Most importantly, my passion for education remains. Medyo bobo ako sa science at math, pero sa ibang subjects, kahit papaano I can confidently share a thing or too. I thank God for the gift of my Lola. And I believe that I managed to survive this far because of her prayers, while in this life and there in the next.

A woman of valor who can find. Thank God I found one.

I love you, Lola Celia.

The post Remembering Lola Celia appeared first on Tamang Usapan Podcast.

Character in power is knowing when to step down and yield authority to the younger generation.

Cincinnatus was a humble Roman farmer in the 5th century BC. When Rome faced a grave military crisis, the Senate called him to serve as dictator—a role that gave him absolute power. He accepted the call, led Rome to victory in just 16 days, and, instead of clinging to power, he laid it down and returned to his plow. His story became a timeless symbol of leadership as service, not possession, inspiring generations of leaders to rule with humility and restraint.Both Philippine leaders and citizens can draw powerful lessons from his example:

1. Power Is Not Absolute and Never Permanent

No individual or family can wield all the power in a nation forever. Wisdom teaches that at times, the best way to wield power is to navigate around it instead of attempting to contain it.

We admire political leaders who, despite enjoying immense popularity, chose to relinquish power. Why? Because they knew when to step down for the greater good.

2. Power Is Generated by Necessity

Like Cincinnatus, power knocks at our doors when we are needed to rise to the occasion.  Leadership is not about ambition but about answering a call to serve.

When that moment arrives, may we be courageous enough to rise to the occasion—whether we feel ready or not.

3. Power Is Not Defined by Titles

Many leaders believe that titles give them power, but the truth is the opposite: power gives meaning to titles.Power gave them their titles and these titles are meant to have a noble purpose—to empower the “3 Ls”: the Least, the Lost, and the Last.

4. Power Is Perfected in Service

Power is always meant to be outward-oriented. The moment it turns inward—focused on self-preservation—it begins to corrupt and destroy.

True wisdom teaches that power lasts, but we do not. We cannot fully contain power in our person or family; when we leave this earth, it will pass to the next generation.

Cincinnatus knew this and this enabled him to not create an unhealthy attachment to power.

The Wisdom to Wield and Yield Power

Everyone possesses some degree of power. The mark of great leadership is knowing when to wield it and when to pass it on.

Personally, I wouldn’t mind retiring someday in the province—teaching catechism to children or philosophy to teenagers. Who knows, I might even learn cabbage farming. 😄

Key Takeaways for Filipino Leaders and Citizens

• Leadership is a responsibility, not a possession.
  
• Power is a trust that serves the common good.
  
• Knowing when to step up or step down is a sign of wisdom and strength.
  

Cincinnatus reminds us that true power lies in service, humility, and the courage to let go.

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Inatake nila at pilit na niyurakan ang kasaysayan at saysay ng nangyari sa EDSA noong 1986. ‘Di raw totoo, marami raw ang nauto. Bunga ito ng pag-usbong ng mga online channels at plataporma na nagpapakalat ng maling impormasyon at nagtatangkang baluktutin ang naratibo ng kasaysayan.

May nagtitipon-tipon ngayon sa EDSA.

Ang mga magulang natin, nagpunta sa EDSA noong 1986 hindi dahil sinabi ni Cardinal Sin. Hindi dahil pinaslang si Ninoy. Nangyari ang EDSA dahil tunay na nagkaisa ang buong sambayanan. Alam nila na hindi tamang maghari ang takot at karahasan at katiwalian. Alam nilang “tama na, sobra na, palitan na”. Alam nila na ang “katotohanan, kalayaan, at katarungan ay kayang makamit nang walang dahas”. 

Ito ang diwa ng EDSA. Ito ang ibig sabihin ng People Power.

Sa kabila ng takot, umasa sila na may mababago sa sistema. Ang EDSA ay hindi tungkol kay Cory, sa mga Aquino, kay FVR, kay Enrile, o kay Gringo. Ang kwento ng EDSA ay kwento ng mga tao. Dahil sa EDSA, humanga ang mundo sa Pilipino. Mayroon ngang ibang mga bansa na nagtangkang gayahin ang milagro ng EDSA bagama’t sa huli’y sila’y ‘di nagtagumpay.

Dakila ang naganap noon sa EDSA, oo. Pero alam nating pagkalipas ng ilang dekada, wala ring gaanong nangyaring pagbabago. Sila pa rin ang mga naghahari, bumalimbing lang mula sa tumatandang trapo ngunit sila pa rin ang nasa kapangyarihan, nagpapasapasahan lang ng trono mula sa asawa, anak, manugang, at apo. Hirap pa rin ang Pilipino.

Kaya, marami sa mga lumaban noon, iginupo na ng panahon. Ginamit itong pagkakataon upang maghasik ng lason. Kaya silang mulat noon, nabulag sa mga panibagong version at vision. Pagdating ng panahon ng eleksyon at usapin sa administrasyon, kapwa Pilipino, magkakaaway-away na ngayon.

Pumalpak daw ang EDSA. Baka nga. Pero hindi dahil pumalpak ang People Power kundi dahil ang mga sakim ay nanatiling Powerful People at People on power. Pero nananatili ang mahika ng EDSA sa kamalayang pilipino: sa bawat kaguluhang panlipunan at pampulitika sinasambit pa rin ang kaniyang alaala, may ilan pa ngang nagtatangka tulad noong 2000’s.

At ngayon may nagtatangka muli. Napakaparadohiko nga talaga ng buhay na ngayon ay nasasaksihan natin ang pinakamalupit at pinakamakapangyarihang nagtangkang ilibing sa limot ang alaala ng EDSA ay siya ring tumatawag ngayon sa kanyang mga tao upang magsulong ng “bagong EDSA”. Ang problema: dahil sa kanyang masigasig na pagbaluktot sa diwa, saysay at kasaysayan ng EDSA at ng People Power at dahil sa ang kaniyang postura ay Powerful father na handang gawin ang “maruming trabaho” para sa kanyang people, malamig rin ang sagot sa kaniyang panawagan.

Pumalpak ang EDSA sabi ng ilan. Maaari nga. Pero hindi mabubura ang saysay nito sa bansa. Dahil ang kasalukuyang Saligang Batas at lipunan, tayong lahat na tumatamasa ng ganitong klase ng kalayaan at, kahit papaano, kaginhawan, ay bunga ng naging kaganapan sa EDSA. Lahat tayo, sa ayaw mo man o sa gusto, "Anak tayo ng EDSA".

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Relics, in their quiet presence, serve as markers of our shared faith journey. They remind us that faith, though it may dim, can be reignited. The relics I once pursued are now relics of my past, yet they remain beacons of continuity—a reminder that, even in seasons of doubt, a flicker of hope can carry us through.

Growing up in the Philippines, I was deeply drawn to the visible expressions of Catholic devotion. From a young age, I was fascinated by religious symbols, especially relics—sacred objects that seemed to hold pieces of the divine, connecting me to saints and their miraculous lives. However, my fascination with relics was not always balanced with understanding. As a young person, I was guided more by a desire for the tangible than by a grasp of the deeper meanings they held. My journey, marked by zealous faith, entry into the seminary, eventual departure, and now a more subdued spirituality, has revealed the complex beauty and challenges of faith. Today, I see relics as both reminders of my past devotion and testaments to the enduring, though sometimes flickering, light of faith within.

The Allure of Relics and My Early Missteps

Growing up in a devout Filipino family, I was surrounded by stories of miracles, saints, and the power of sacred objects. Relics, in particular, captivated me. They were symbols of God’s grace manifested through holy lives, and they represented a tangible link to the saints’ lives. For years, I collected devotional items and relics, believing they held blessings and divine protection. This attraction was shaped by a Filipino cultural context that treasures sacramentals and expressions of faith, but it was also influenced by a youthful misunderstanding of the role of these sacred objects.

Looking back, I now see that my fascination with relics mirrored a historical trend. During the medieval period, the demand for relics led to widespread forgery and commercialization, as people sought out relics not always for their sacred value, but for prestige, wealth, or protection (Geary, 1990). I can relate to this, as my younger self sometimes saw relics as tokens of luck rather than as reminders of faith. Scholars like Patrick Geary (1990) and Robert Finucane (2011) have documented how the fervor for relics during the Middle Ages was at times tainted by fraud, driven by a desire to harness the relics' perceived power rather than their true purpose.

Entering the Seminary and Rediscovering the Sacred

My understanding began to change when I entered the seminary. Guided by spiritual mentors, I immersed myself in studying Church teachings on relics, which emphasize that relics are not magic charms, but sacred symbols that lead us to a deeper connection with the saints and God. As St. Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274) teaches in his Summa Theologica, relics are worthy of reverence because they are connected to holy people who served as "temples of the Holy Spirit" during their lives (Aquinas, 1274). This new understanding shifted my focus from possessing sacred items to contemplating their spiritual meanings.

The stories of saints like Saint Helena, who revered relics not for their own sake but as instruments of faith, inspired me. Saint Helena, credited with discovering the True Cross, saw relics as means of spreading the faith rather than as trophies (Brown, 1981). In my seminary studies, I also learned about the role of anamnesis, or remembrance, in relic veneration. Through anamnesis, relics serve not as items of power but as vessels of memory that connect the faithful to the lives of saints. This perspective reminded me that relics call us to remember, to emulate, and to stay connected to a faith tradition that extends beyond our individual lives.

Losing Faith and the Flicker of Hope

Eventually, however, my path took an unexpected turn. I left the seminary, and with that departure, I lost not only my direction but also my sense of the sacred. The relics that once filled me with awe and inspiration became symbols of what I felt I had lost. My enthusiasm faded, and my connection to faith became tenuous, dimming to the faintest ember in my heart. The zeal and clarity that once marked my spirituality seemed to vanish. I entered a season of profound disconnection, where the symbols of faith felt more like remnants of a past life than sources of inspiration.

Yet, even in this time of distance and doubt, a small, flickering light remained within me—an ember of hope. I believe this ember is a kind of grace, a quiet but persistent reminder that faith, however muted, is never fully extinguished. While I no longer possess the same enthusiasm I once had, this small spark keeps me tethered to the possibility of belief and to the continuity of a journey that began long ago. And here, the relics that once held so much meaning for me remain as relics of my past—a testament not only to a faith I once felt intensely, but to the endurance of that faith through struggle and transformation.

Relics as Symbols of Continuity in Filipino Faith

In Filipino culture, our connection to sacred objects is part of a broader cultural identity that values utang na loob (debt of gratitude) and bayanihan (community spirit). These values teach us that our lives are intertwined with those who came before us and those who share our faith today. Relics, when properly understood, are not simply objects but reminders of this continuity. They represent the lives of saints who, like us, faced challenges and doubts but remained faithful. In times of hardship, relics remind us that our faith is part of a larger, enduring story.

For Filipinos, relics resonate with our cultural need for connection—to the divine, to our ancestors, and to one another. By viewing relics not as personal trophies but as symbols of shared heritage, we can foster a more authentic spirituality that honors the saints’ lives rather than just possessing their remnants. Relics serve as reminders that, like the saints, we too are part of a living tradition, even if our faith is not always strong. As Filipino Catholicism treasures the visible and tangible aspects of faith, relics offer a sense of continuity that can endure even when personal devotion wavers.

A Reflection on Faith and Continuity

Today, I see relics as markers of both the faith I once held passionately and the hope that persists despite life’s hardships. Though my connection to relics has changed, they still offer a quiet reminder of my journey and the saints who remain examples of faith even through times of doubt. These objects stand as witnesses to the continuity of faith, a continuity that holds space for both zeal and hesitation. They remind me that the faith I once practiced with fervor is still within reach, waiting to be rekindled.

In theological terms, relic veneration is an act of anamnesis—a practice of remembrance that connects our lives with those who have gone before. This remembrance does not demand unwavering enthusiasm; instead, it gently calls us to stay open to grace, to hold onto the ember of hope that faith can be reignited. Reflecting on my journey, I understand that relics are not merely sacred items but symbols of perseverance. They tell us that, despite moments of loss and struggle, faith endures.

Through these reminders, I am learning that true devotion goes beyond mere possession or zeal. It is found in the quiet moments of remembrance, in holding onto a flickering ember of hope. While I may no longer seek relics with the same fervor, I am grateful for the grace of continuity they offer—of a faith that persists, however quietly, through every season of life.

References

Geary, P. J. (1990). Furta Sacra: Thefts of Relics in the Central Middle Ages. Princeton University Press.

Aquinas, T. (1274). Summa Theologica. Translated by the Fathers of the English Dominican Province. London: Burns, Oates & Washbourne.

Brown, P. (1981). The Cult of the Saints: Its Rise and Function in Latin Christianity. University of Chicago Press.

Council of Trent. (1563). Canons and Decrees of the Council of Trent.

Finucane, R. C. (2011). Miracles and Pilgrims: Popular Beliefs in Medieval England. Palgrave Macmillan.

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Ang mga paglalahad na nabanggit ay iilan lamang sa ating mga natatanging paraan ng pagtanaw sa bahay. Samakatuwid, ang bahay ay hindi isang konsepto na hiwalay sa pagkatao at pagkakakilanlan natin bilang mga Pilipino. Bilang pag-uugnay, ang bahay ay kalakip sa ating malawig na pananaw sa sarili, kapwa at kapaligiran. Sa katunayan, ito ay pinatunayan ng mga kapatid nating katutubo tulad ng mga B’laan sa Mindanao – silang mga nakasalamuha at pinakimuhayan nitong munting manunulat sa di-kahabaang panahon. Para sa mga Lumad, ang bahay ay walang iniwan sa kalikasan. Kung bubuksan lamang ng isang tao ang kanyang mga mata at puso sa kalikasan, makikita na niya ang lahat dito. Karagdagan pa nito, walang taong nag-iisa, walang taong walang kapwa kung mananatili siyang naka-ugnay sa tunay niyang kapaligiran at kalikasan. Kaya, ang ‘di marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay ‘di makararating sa paroroonan. Ang sinumang umiiral palayo sa kanyang kalikasan ay nabubuhay sa karimlan at kawalang pag-asa sapagkat naghahanap siya ng bagay na di-angkop at di-makabubuti sa kanya. Sadyang kay lalim at mahiwaga ang buhay ng tao. Magkaugnay na tunay ang pamumuhay at pamamahay. Anupa’t ‘di nakapagtatakang ang bawat isa ay naghahangad ng malawak at magandang bahay – nang magkaroon din sila ng masagana at magandang buhay.

Relihiyoso

Si Fray, si Brother, si Padre, si Sister. Sila ay mga taong namanata ng sarili sa Diyos – mga taong nangakong mabubuhay alang-alang sa Diyos at kapwa nang may pagtalima, pagsunod at pagdaralita. Mga baliw silang maituturing sa makabagong panahong ito. Ngunit, bakit gayon na lamang kataas ang paggalang at pagpupugay nating mga Pilipino sa mga tulad nila? Simple lamang ang nakikita kong sagot: mga mabuting tao kasi sila o sa ibang pananalita, sila ay mga taong malapit sa Diyos. Bagaman may natatanging karakter at kahinaan ang bawat isa sa kanila, ‘di maikakaila ng isang Pilipino na ang mga taong tulad ng pari, prayle at madre ay may malaking naiaambag sa ikabubuti ng pamayanan sa tulong ng kanilang mga halimbawa at pangangaral. Subalit, hindi ito ang nais kong pagtuunan ng pansin ukol sa kanila sa sulating ito. Sa malalim na pagtingin, mga payak na tao lamang din sila na dumaan sa paghuhubog at tumanggap ng dakilang atas ng paglilingkod – isang atas na pili lamang ang nakapagsasagawa. Atin ngayong suriin ang mga ‘di gaanong hayag na katotohanan sa pamumuhay ng mga tinatawag nating mga relihiyoso.

Unang una sa listahan ay ang kanilang paghuhubog. Malaking ambag sa lathalaing ito ang sinulat na sanaysay ni Padre Quirico Pedregosa, OP na walang iba kundi ang kaniyang pagbabahagi sa kanyang buhay sa Orden na kanyang pinasukan. Kapansin-pansin na ang pinagmulan ng mga pamayanang relihiyoso ay buhat sa kanluran: katotohanan ito na alam natin buhat pa nang taong 1565 nang unang dumating ang mga Agustino sa ating bansa. Bagama’t mayroong mga paglalahad na nagmumungkahing mas naunang dumating ang mga Franciscano sa kapuluang ito sa pagtatapos ng ika-labintatlong siglo. Gayunpaman, ang punto rito ay sadyang kakanluranin ang nakagisnan nating pananaw sa buhay-pari, buhay-madre, buhay-relihiyoso. At sa loob ng tatlong siglo ng pananakop sa atin ay lalo tayong nagkaroon ng masalimuot at di-magandang pagkaunawa sa kalikasan ng buhay na ito. Makikita natin ito sa katauhan ni Padre Damaso Vergolagas at ni Fray Botod.

Sa paglalahad ng ating katutubong pagtanaw sa bahay at pag-uugnay nito sa kakanluraning prinsipyo ng pagkakapatiran, masasabi nating maraming taon ding nawaglit sa ating katauhan ang tunay nating kalikasan anupa’t humantong ito sa ating mas magiliw na pagtangkilik sa mga bagay at prinsipyong banyaga higit sa ating nakagisnang kultura at pag-uugali. Subalit, sadyang totoo na mayroong paliwanag sa bawat bagay sa ilalim ng araw. Bagama’t nagkagayon, sa ating kapanahunan, alalaumbaga’y bumabawi tayo sa kasaysayan at nagsisimula muling ibalik at kayamanang pansamantala nating iwinaglit. Kaya, heto, nagsusuri tayong muli at hinahanapang-kahulugan at katuwiran ang mga minanang kayamanan mula sa kasaysayan at iniluluklok ito sa dambana ng ating kalikasan at karangalan bilang Pilipinong angkan.

Sa pagbabalik-tuon sa mga relihiyoso, sa kabila ng kakanluraning binhi na itinanim sa atin, tila mayroon pa ring nanatiling ‘di nawaglit sa pag-iral ng panahon; bagay na paguusapan sa mga susunod na paglalahad. Sa kanilang paghuhubog, pamumuhay, pananamit ultimo pananalita, masasabi nating sila ay tunay na nag-iba.

Sa paghuhubog, ang bawat nagnanais na yakapin ang buhay ng pagiging relihiyoso ay kinakailangang itakwil ang pamilya at matutong mamuhay nang mag-isa sa piling ng isang kapatiran. Sa pamumuhay, ang bawat isa ay inaasahang gumawa nang makapag-ambag sa kapatiran at ‘di maghangad ng pansariling kaluwagan at kasaganahan. Sa pananamit, mula sa payak na kasuotan, ang bawat isa ay pinagkakalooban ng habito na walang iniwang pagkakaiba sa iba bilang tanda ng pagkakaisa sa iisang kapatiran kung saan si Kristo ang ulo at sila ang katawan. Mula sa kinagisnang wika, dumatal ang Kastila, Latin, Aleman, Ingles at kung anupaman ayon sa pinagmulan ng isang relihiyosong samahan. Samakatuwid, mula sa payak at malayang pamumuhay, ang isang taong piniling maging relihiyoso ay nagtamo ng bagong pamumuhay taglay ang mga karagdagang pag-uugali at pananaw. Binigyang diin ko rito ang mga salitang malaya at karag-dagan. Una, ang malaya sa aking pang-unawa ay ang estado ng buhay ng isang Pilipino kung saan siya ay payapa at payak na umiiral sa kanyang kalikasang kinagisnan. Ikalawa, ginamit ko ang salitang karag-dagan sapagkat hindi kailanman binura o mabubura ng kahit anong kakanluranin o banyagang pananaw ang likas na kaugalian na taglay ng isang Pilipino. Samakatuwid, bagaman dumating ang mga bagong katotohanan na ito sa kaniyang buhay, dumaragdag lang ito sa kayamanan ng kanyang katauhan.

Bagong Bahay, Bagong Buhay: Ang Bahay at ang Relihiyoso

(Understanding Community Life in the Light of the Filipino Understanding of “Bahay”)

Ngayong napagusapan na ang mga kapansin-pansing pagbabagong hatid ng buhay-relihiyoso sa isang Pilipino, inaaanyayahan ko ang mambabasa na samahan ako sa masikap na pagsusuri at pagsasalin nito sa ating katutubong pagkaunawa.

Una, hindi bago sa ating mga Pilipino ang magdangal ng isang tao na nagsasagawa ng panalangin para sa sambayanan. Wala pa ang mga Kastila, mayroon na tayong mga iginagalang na babaylan at katalonan na tumatayong mga espiritwal na lider na nagsasagawa at namumuno sa mga pam-pamayanang ritwal at pagsamba. Kaya, gayon na lamang ang ating mataas na pagtingin sa mga taong naka-habito at gayon na lamang ang ating pagkasuklam sa mga hindi isinasabuhay ang pagkapari o pagkarelihiyoso nang wasto sapagkat naniniwala tayo na ang bawat pagpapala ay mayroong kaakibat na sumpa sa mga nagsasagawa ng kabuktutan at kapalaluan.

Ikalawa, kapansin-pansin na ang mga simbahan na mayroon tayong mga Pilipino na naitayo noong matandang panahon ay mukhang bahay. Sa katunayan, ang mga katutubong dambana at pook-sambahan na mayroon ang mga Lumad tulad ng mga B’laan, T’boli at sino pa man ay isang literal na bahay. Hindi ito pagkakataon lamang. Isa sa mga katutubo nating pananaw bilang angkan na ang bahay ay ang pinaka-ligtas na pook. Sa diwang ito, ang bahay na laan para kay Adwata o Bathala o sa Diyos ay pinaniniwalaang matatag at maganda. Bukal ng pagpapala at tanggulan laban sa paniniil ng masama. Ang kulturang ito ay sinisikap buhayin ng maraming katutubo sa Mindanao at mapalad itong manunulat na maging saksi sa pagpapanauli ng kanilang kultura. Ang tawag nga pala sa banal na pook na ito sa katutubo nilang wika ay sabak.

Ngayon, sa ikatlong punto, ating bigyang-liwanag ang kaugnayan ng bahay sa buhay relihiyoso. Sa aking pananaw, ang salitang pagtatakwil na hinihingi ng buhay-relihiyoso ay hindi katumbas ng lubusang paglimot. Kung magkagayon, mamamatay itong taong nagnanais pumasok. Subukan nating gumawa ng paghahambing: nang tawagin ni Hesus sina Pedro sampu ng kaniyang mga kapwa mangingisdang Galileo, kanyang winikang sila ay gagawin niyang mamamalakaya ng tao. Samakatuwid, talastas ni Hesus na mayroong likas na kayamanan sa kalooban ng tao na hinding hindi maaagaw ninuman. Gayundin sa isang relihiyoso. Hindi niya matatalikdan ang tunay niyang kalikasan – hinding hindi niya maiiwanan ang kaniyang bahay. Bagama’t ang liwanag dito ay nakatamo siya ng isa pang bahay. Ang seminaryo ang una niyang bagong bahay; at sa mga gawain dito, kanya lamang isinasagawa ang tungkuling kinagisnan niya sa kaniyang bahay: ang maghugas ng pinggan, ang maglinis ng bakuran, ang sumalo sa hapag ng kapatiran, ang dumalo sa panalangin at gawain. Walang iniwan ang mga ito sa mga gawain sa bahay. Kaya, bagama’t siya ay mayroon nang bagong buhay sa bago niyang bahay, hindi niya nakikitang siya ay nasa ibang bahay. Ang mga kasama niya rito, ang mga tagahubog at kapwa seminarista marahil sa unang bahagi ay magmimistulang ibang tao dahilan sa sari-saring kaugalian at pinagmulan, kinalauna’y kanyang natanggap bilang mga bagong pamilya – bagong kasapi ng kaniyang munting sambahayan: at sa ugaling ito na pinagsasaluhan ng bawat isang kasapi ng pangkat, nagkakaroon ng ugnayan ang bawat isa kung saan nagagawa nilang ituring ang bawat isa bilang magkakapatid sa iisang kapatiran kapiling ni Kristong kanilang Kuya.

Matapos ang kanyang paghuhubog at dumating na ang panahon na ang isang tao ay ganap nang kasapi ng isang relihiyosong kapisanan, lumalawig na rin ang kanyang pananaw na ang kanyang tahanan ay hindi lamang kubli sa haligi bagkus ay isang malawak at pinagpalang kalikasang nilikha ng Diyos na nagkaloob sa kanya ng maraming kapatid at magulang. Samakatuwid, hindi naparam ang mga natutunan niya sa kinagisnan niyang bahay anupa’t binigyan siya nito ng lakas ng kalooban upang maituring ang bahay ng kaniyang kapwa bilang kaniyang bahay. Dahil dito, tila baga’y naging likas na lamang ding tawagin ng mga relihiyoso na “bahay” ang pook na kanilang pinagpipisanan bilang isang kapatiran. Halimbawa na lamang nito ay ang Bahay Capuchino, Bahay Dominiko, Arvisu House, Passionist Theology House at iba pa.

 

Sa malalim na pagtanaw, ano pa ang maaaring suriin sa pananaw na ito? Pagsumikapan nating pasukin ang diwa ng isang relihiyoso. Dito, aking sasariwain ang mga natutunan ko sa aming pag-aaral ng Sikolohiyang Pilipino; at, masasabi kong dito pa lamang, lagi’t lagi tayong babalik sa ugat ng ating diwa: Ang Kapwa. Sa pagpasok pa lamang sa seminaryo, hindi maikakaila ang pangangailangan ng pakikisama, pakikisangkot, pakikisalamuha, pakikiisa at kung anupamang tawag sa pakikipag-ugnayan ng isang indibidwal sa kanyang kapwa. Malamang ay mayroon itong kauganayan sa ating hiya. Sa ating pagkilos, paggawa, pananalita, lagi nating iniisip ang kapakanan ng ating kapwa kung ayaw nating masabihan nang walang hiya. Ngunit hindi ito bulag na pagkilos o dili kaya’y kapalaluan at pagbabalatkayo. Ito ay malalim na hiya na nagbubunsod sa tao na magpasya na gawin ang wasto at maglingkod sa kapwa sa abot ng makakaya nito bagama’t mayroon siyang kahinaan. Hindi ba’t ganito rin ang karaniwang pangyayari sa ating bahay? Ang bawat isa ay ginagawa ang gampaning nakaatas sa kanya para sa ikabubuti ng pamilya: Ang ama ay nagsisikap na gawin sa abot ng kanyang makakaya upang pakainin at gabayan ang kanyang mag-ina. Ang ina ay umiiral upang kalingain at arugain ang kanyang mag-ama. Ang mga anak ay ipinadadala sa eskwelahan upang mabigyan ng magandang kinabukasan at inaasahang kaniyang pinagbubuti ang pag-aaral upang makamtan niya itong pangarap para sa kanya ng kaniyang mga magulang. Ang sinuman sa mga ito ang ‘di magsagawa ng kanyang tungkulin ay kadalasa’y tumatanggap ng pangangaral o dili kaya’y karahasan sa anumang paraan, ngunit ito ay bihira at masasabi na nating malala. Kaya, bagama’t kakanluranin ang pinagmulan, bagama’t kakanluranin ang binhi, hindi nito kailanman magagawang kakanluranin ang lupang pinagtamnan: ang puso ng isang Pilipinong relihiyoso.

 

Sa malawakang pagtanaw, dahilan sa masidhing pagpapahalaga sa kapwa, nagiging mabunga at matatag ang isang relihiyoso na harapin ang bagong buhay dala ng kanyang bagong bahay. Kaya hindi na nakabibigla sa tuwing babanggitin ng isang pari o seminarista ang bahay bilang pagtukoy sa kumbento o seminaryo sapagkat wala itong iniwan sa kaniyang nakagisnang bahay anuman ang pagbabagong kanyang matamo at matanggap.

 

Alay ko ito sa lahat ng relihiyosong Pilipino sa bawat panig ng mundo.

Mga Batayang Sipi

** Patawarin nawa ako sa aking pangangahas subalit karamihan sa aking mga inilathala ay buhat sa aking pagninilay at mga natutunan sa aking mga guro sa Pilosopiya, Teolohiya at Sikolohiya. Gayunpaman, ‘di ako nag-aari ng aking dalisay na paga-akda. Bagama’t nangangarap din ako na mailathala rin yaring munting pagninilay at maihanay sa mga nabasa kong sanaysay, subalit aking talastas na milya pa ang aking layo sa katotohanan. Kaya, sa diwang ito, ako ay lubos na nagpapasalamat sa mga propesor ko at mga pangungahing may-akda na aking nakilala dahilan sa pag-aaral na ito:

 

Mga May-akda

Bulatao, Jaime, Hiya, Philippine Studies. Volume 12, No. 3. Quezon City. Ateneo de Manila University Press. July, 1964

Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. Fraternal Life in Community: Congregavit Nos In Unum Christi Amor. Pasay City. Daughters of Saint Paul. 2006

 

de Mesa, SJ, Jose. In Solidarity with the Culture: Studies in Theological Re-rooting. Quezon City. Maryhill School of Theology. 1987

 

Juan Pablo II. Vita Consecrata. Pasay City. Daughters of Saint Paul. 1996

 

Pedregosa, Jr., OP, Quirico et al., At Nanahan sa Atin: Coming Home to the Roots of the Filipino Religious. Manila, University of Santo Tomas Publishing House, 2002

 

Pe-Pua, Rogelia, ed., Sikolohiyang Pilipino, Teorya, Metodo at Gamit. Quezon City. University of the Philippines Press. 2011.

 

Sta. Maria, Daniel. A Day in the Life of a Parish Priest. Manila. Catholic Book Center. 1999

 

Wapaño, CP, Roberto. A Close Encounter with the B’laans: A Primer. General Santos City. Passionist Philippine Province. 2007

 

Mga Dakilang Guro

Fr. Gwen Barde, CP

Fr. Julito Villarente, CP

Fr. Salvador Agualada, CMF

Fr. Eugenio Lopez, OFMCap

Sr. Mariella de Villa, OP

Dr. Miguel Lambino

G. Jhon Fred Caranzo

Fra. Francis Noel Ma. Monterde, OSM

 

Natatanging Banggit

B’laan and T’boli Communities in Saranggani Province

Dr. Lars Raymund Ubaldo, dalubhasa ng Panlipunang Sining at Etnograpiya

 

 

Manatili nawa sa ating diwa ang pagpapakasakit ni Hesukristo.

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