Making your travel to the Philippines become worthy of your valuable leisure time requires taking the extra time to prepare before the actual trip itself. You'll be helped a lot by taking time to listen to someone who has lived the first 40 years of his life back in the Philippines. Here's a list of 14 tips, mostly not from the books, for you to consider:
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12.29.2009
10.06.2009
Ever Been to Governors Island Across Manhattan by Less than a 10-minute Boatride?
I just did! Grateful to have been invited by friend Alan, and a new friend, Tom to join them in their visit to Governors Island. We were there two weekends ago. Thankful, too, that they waited for me, as I had to go all the way from my side here in Stapleton, Staten Island. I took the SI Ferry, and then walked a very short distance to the Governors Island ferry terminal. Take note: they'd still check and inspect your bags before hopping into the free-fare ferry. The ride's less than 10 minutes (it could have been 5 minutes actually). And they also have ferry service across Brooklyn---got to check on that, some time.
It's another haven for people who love to walk, just like myself. You can also engage in taking pictures from all the scenes and set-ups found in this island. It reminds me of some old, former US military bases back in the Philippines (like Subic Bay Naval Base, Corregidor Island, John Hay Air Base in Baguio City). And you can do biking, all over the island. Tom's telling me, he had once experienced being in a Governors Island ferry full to bikes (telling you in effect that you have to prepare for you bike schedule if you'd like to include this island in your itinerary, especially on a weekend).
It's lovely being in this island. Now I know what's the story all about those buildings I see on my view whenever I find myself on the ferry crossing to Staten Island (which is often, depending on my schedule).
Some pics here: (your valuable feedback will be greatly appreciated! :-D )
the terminal's grander than that of SI Ferry Terminal
apparently, there's a lot of things happening in the island
one of those ubiquitous red, metal park seats in the island
the Staten Island ferry now close to its downtown Manhattan ferry terminal
a view of the prominent Castle Williams usually seen from most pictures of Governors Island
they even have archaeological diggings here of a previously lived in village before Governors Island became a military base---you got to pay extra to view the diggings
the man's metallic feet made of recycled material, upclose
the artist's note on the artwork, google it for more details!
this,"Steel Neal" [be sidetracked by viewing this YouTube vid in Nihongo LOL] didn't really interest me at first, before I finally decided to take a closer look into it---it's one great piece of artwork!
this markers says, in so many words, that Governors Island used to be the originating point of warship boats that engaged into battle, or provided logistics to other warships, in recent war years
seeing one of the cruise ships, the Caribbean Princess, docked somewhere in Brooklyn from the island
just like seeing one of those Rockefeller Center Christmas trees, with this one still alive!
that's downtown Manhattan view from this island
there are other tiny churches located here, but not anymore functioning as such---whatever that means! i peeked inside, & saw leftovers of [what looks like] some previous art exhibit on the walls.
reminds me of some houses built during US period back in the Philippines, mostly of those residences of the elites who would be having lazy, sunny filled weekends, complete with servants in tow
you'd feel like walking through, literally, a time-worn passageway through this arched entrance
go fly your kites here, too!
inside the chief officer's residence
one of the canons in front of the chief officer's house, now out of service
the former official residence of the highest ranking officer in the island
It's another haven for people who love to walk, just like myself. You can also engage in taking pictures from all the scenes and set-ups found in this island. It reminds me of some old, former US military bases back in the Philippines (like Subic Bay Naval Base, Corregidor Island, John Hay Air Base in Baguio City). And you can do biking, all over the island. Tom's telling me, he had once experienced being in a Governors Island ferry full to bikes (telling you in effect that you have to prepare for you bike schedule if you'd like to include this island in your itinerary, especially on a weekend).
It's lovely being in this island. Now I know what's the story all about those buildings I see on my view whenever I find myself on the ferry crossing to Staten Island (which is often, depending on my schedule).
Some pics here: (your valuable feedback will be greatly appreciated! :-D )
8.01.2009
Some Songs & Videos with the Theme "TAKING LEAD NOW"
Take the lead, leading the way, take lead, taking lead now----thoughts that look distant from one another but nevertheless run along the same premise about "leading" or putting your face forward, in the midst of hurdles and challenges following the uniquely created path you've recognized and seized, going towards the accomplishment of your goals, your endeavors, your dreams, your struggles.....
7.11.2009
My Regular Friday Evening Event at St Paul the Apostle R.C. Church in Corona, NYC
St Paul the Apostle Prayer Community finally got its home and regular location two Fridays ago in Corona, Queens, NYC. It's a prayer community that has been in search for its home the past 5 years. I got active attending again during this year's holy week, when one Friday evening, I found myself at my friend's (Greg) house in Jackson Heights, Queens, where I used to live over a year ago.
I attended prayer meetings with the same group before when I used to live in Queens. There were also occasions when I got to join the meetings when they took place at my apartment when Greg and I were still roommates.
I've since then brought some friends with me during the prayer meeting that happens every Friday evening. What's in it for me, really? It's the opportunity to be praise God who's always been with me, come rain or shine. Life here in the US can be rough and very challenging; even your most closest friends you'd feel don't really listen to you really well. I had to seek a place where I can say prayers with others who have been called just like myself, although for some different reasons. Mind you, it's not the most perfect group, ever. I can easily pinpoint bothersome issues and troubles, if I choose to do so. Yet, I go because I want to praise God, and this time, with a group.
I list down names (spelling not sure if correct) of those who I recall now, and who show up most of the time: Mafet, Medy, Del, Obie, Oscar, Carol, Ester, Mary, Chito, Rudy, Tess, Erlin, Julia, Greg....plus the others. I wonder who'd be called next to join the prayer community this Friday again.
I attended prayer meetings with the same group before when I used to live in Queens. There were also occasions when I got to join the meetings when they took place at my apartment when Greg and I were still roommates.
I've since then brought some friends with me during the prayer meeting that happens every Friday evening. What's in it for me, really? It's the opportunity to be praise God who's always been with me, come rain or shine. Life here in the US can be rough and very challenging; even your most closest friends you'd feel don't really listen to you really well. I had to seek a place where I can say prayers with others who have been called just like myself, although for some different reasons. Mind you, it's not the most perfect group, ever. I can easily pinpoint bothersome issues and troubles, if I choose to do so. Yet, I go because I want to praise God, and this time, with a group.
I list down names (spelling not sure if correct) of those who I recall now, and who show up most of the time: Mafet, Medy, Del, Obie, Oscar, Carol, Ester, Mary, Chito, Rudy, Tess, Erlin, Julia, Greg....plus the others. I wonder who'd be called next to join the prayer community this Friday again.
7.09.2009
Sightings at "Sinehan sa summer 2009: “Bayani” at the Philippine Consulate in NYC
My Notes on the free film screenings at the Philippine Consulate in NYC
NEW YORK – The Philippine Consulate General New York, in cooperation with the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA), coordinating producer Vince Nebrida, and Xoom.com proudly presents “Sinehan sa Summer 2009:‘Bayani’”, a once-a-week free screening of films starting on the 2nd of July and ending on the 3rd of September 2009. All Filipino films will have English sub-titles.
Date Film & synopsis
Thurs- 02 Jul
Opening Night
6:30 pm
Great Raid – (2005) As Gen. Douglas MacArthur made good on a pledge that he would return to the Philippines, over 500 American soldiers were being held in Cabanatuan, a notoriously brutal prisoner of war camp. Lt. Col. Henry Mucci (Benjamin Bratt) was appointed to lead the Sixth Ranger Battalion on a mission 30 miles behind enemy lines to infiltrate Cabanatuan and liberate the American prisoners. Directed by John Dahl.
Starring Benjamin Bratt, James Franco, Connie Nielsen, Cesar Montano, Rez Cortes
My Notes: Didn't see this as I was in other events available in the city; I heard from other viewers I met at the Consulate tonight that this was one "good movie."
Thurs–09 Jul
6:30 pm
Back to Bataan Р(1945) The film opens right after US Army raid at Cabanatuan prisoner of war camp, and as American forces under Gen. MacArthur are forced to pull out of Bataan: Colonel Joseph Madden (John Wayne) of the US Army stay behind to organize the guerrilla resistance. One of his officers, Captain Andres Bonifacio (Anthony Quinn) carries a heavy burden .Not only does he have to live up being the grandson of national hero Andres Bonifacio, but his former fianc̩e Dalisay Delgado is apparently collaborating with the Japanese.
Directed by Edward Dmytryk. Starring John Wayne, Anthony Quinn
My Notes: This movie was certainly a huge revelation particularly to those born in the late 60s like myself, though prior to seeing it, I was feeling squeaky as nobody among my other friends would like to see this film with me. Actually, I didn't know that this would be shown tonight, I just thought I have to watch these movies being shown at the Consulate as I've not seen Filipino movies for some time now.
It's refreshing to see a Hollywood produced movie on the Philippines after a long while now, considering that Hollywood production nowadays are mostly done in countries other than the Philippines (though certainly, parts of a movie in production may be done or completed in the Philippines but not necessarily given outright credit. I know this for a fact for certain big blockbuster animated movies.). It's also very refreshing to hear Tagalog actually used in a movie done by foreigners, and I felt OK listening to the actors not using a different accent or tone just to please those not comfortable with spoken English with Filipino accent. Come on guys, Filipinos speak English in the Philippines in its own peculiar accent, as it's part and parcel of the American heritage, the Philippines being part of the US until the end of WWII.
It's strange seeing this movie here in NYC, of all places, and with at least 10 other moviegoers at the Philippine Consulate. It's great these movies are being offered to those interested. It's also great to know that John Wayne actually did movies that show the Philippines in them (I've always seen him in movies depicting cowboys). I was told by my friend Bart Rosenberg that there's actually another John Wayne movie where he's sexier (in military outfits) doing fighting scenes in the Philippines ("They Were Expendable") which he also thought was "a very accurate film by Hollywood standards."
I also take personal interest on films depicting WWII in the Philippines as my paternal grandfather died during the war, being a soldier. I was told by my late father that he died when the jeepney he was driving hit a landmine, instantly killing him and another officer.
Wed-15 Jul
6:30 pm
Sakay Р(1993) A dramatic retelling of the life of Macario Sakay Рa Katipunero, he fought alongside Andres Bonifacio during the Philippine Revolution of 1896, until his capture near the end of the Philippine-American War. He was granted amnesty and was freed after 4 July 1902, and formed the Nacionalista Party. After his party was banned under Sedition laws, he once again took arms and, in April 1904, he proclaimed himself President and established his own government called the Rep̼blika ng Katagalugan (Tagalog Republic) in opposition to U.S. colonial rule. After a false promise of amnesty, he surrendered on July 14, 1906, and was later executed by hanging.
Directed by Raymond Red, starring Julio Diaz, Techie Agbayani and Pen Medina
“Sakay” the film won the 1994 FAMAS Award for Best art direction, for both Danny Red and Raymond Red.
My Notes: I'm delighted to see that there's a bigger number of viewers tonight. I felt awkward but later on had fun seeing actors depicting heroes on screen wearing their hair long. It has become a personal experience to me, then, as I wear long hair myself (which I realize annoys certain people, but at the same time, attracts attention from more people to me for some unclear reason).
The film's gorgeously designed and art directed----given the limits (which I believe is true for most films) on budget, I'm greatly impressed by the efforts of the filmmakers to present this movie in the most authentic setting they could muster and find about for the total viewing experience of the moviegoer. I'm also amazed that such movie like gets to be ever produced. And I'm also more surprised that I know a big number of people who have seen this movie years ago, and I've failed to go out of my way to watch it (when I was still in the Philippines). It's not the easiest movie to watch, as it's tackling about sensitive and still rather fresh issues that creep into one's mind when reading and hearing about the American occupation in the Philippines (I can surmise that the US government, particularly its military forces, have learned a lot from its exposure, including bad ones, in colonizing the Philippines at the turn of 20th century. And these lessons gained have been the basis of much improved strategies and tactics being used in the current wars where the US is involved).
Thurs–23 Jul
6:30 pm
The Forgotten War (Korean War) – (2009) Is an independent film produced by Smoke and Mirrors Entertainment about the Philippine participation in the Korean War. The film recounts the stories from the four (4) Battalion Combat Teams (BCTs) sent to Korea under the United Nations Command. They were known as the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea (PEPTOK). The film recreates important battle scenes and shares the stories of the soldiers finding courage, dedication, strength, and love as they faced adversities amidst the tragic backdrop of war.
Starring: Arnold Reyes (playing the young Fidel V. Ramos), Baron Geisler, Yul Servo, Kyla Lapus, Lance Raymundo, Mikee Lee, Mcoy Fundales, among others.
Directed by Carlo Cruz
My Notes: I was a bit undecided whether to watch this film tonight as the rains have continued to pour before the 6:30pm screening. But the thought that this could be a good opportunity for me to watch another indie movie that's recently made and shown in the Philippines prevailed in me. The audience that gathered to watch the movie tonight was not as big compared with last week.
I like to give much applause for joined efforts combined together to make this film. You seldom actually see movies made about the subject matter (Philippine participation in the Korean War in the 1950s); that's considered "very brave." Still, I'm not as impressed over the finished product; certain things were amiss. It has the feel of a "made-for-TV-movie" with docu materials added into it. I just wonder why all the soldiers (from the lowest rank to the officers) were not sporting military haircut. And why add a romantic angle towards the end? It then looked like mixed and matched, making the movie looked like it's making big attempts to please everyone, though I have a feeling the reason could be to make the whole subject matter lighter to follow. But it's odd that I found it funny to see that the attempts made were to highlight how strongly linked the Philippines and South Korea are as nations (perhaps this will include North Korea in due time). Plus there was an ingenious way of citing what happened to those war heroes (including a love match that happened during the Korean War, and still continuing in another mode by venturing into the restaurant business that still thrives somewhere in Jupiter Street in Makati. I'm just amused at how certain small trivia could get into the picture, thus muddling what the whole film was all about LOL).
Wed–05 Aug
6:30 pm
Corregidor – (1943) shortly after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, an American doctor and his staff on Corregidor try to treat the sick, injured and wounded as troops desperately try to beat back a ferocious Japanese attack. The film starts as a love story but becomes a story of the horrors of war as the Japanese lay siege upon Corregidor.
Directed by William Nigh. Starring: Otto Kruger, Elissa Landi, Donald Woods, Frank Jenks
My Notes: This movie didn't interest me much, mainly because it looked like a propaganda movie. But it's got some interesting storyline that was not well developed: a man who was willing to give up his recent marriage so that his wife could be with her former beau with whom she's still very much in love. As shown in the movie, the story turned out to be a bit off and uninspired, and I knew I've seen better stories even from made-for-TV movies. But there were interesting footages including the kamikaze planes by the Japanese when they were invading and bombarding parts of the Philippines during WWII. The copy during the screening was bad, with its sound a bit garbled. I was happy I got to see parts of the movie on YouTube which I copy-pasted here; please feel free to watch (I think watching this film here is even a better experience than the one we viewers tonight had). I noted there were several older men who looked like veterans who were in the audience.
I've been to Corregidor one time during one unplanned visit, when I joined some friends who invited me the last minute. It turned out to be a great place to visit---it's feels like holy ground. What the Americans have built in the island before the war could have been very impressive, judging from the ruins. I also remember seeing a lighthouse, which is really pretty and picturesque.
Thurs–13 Aug
6:30 pm
Paraiso – (2007) A Pilgrimage of Hope, a Response to Heroism, a Pledge of Honor.
Three inspiring true-to life Gawad Kalinga stories weaved in a powerful movie trilogy that promises to change your life. The Trilogy: Umiyak Man ang Langit (Even if Heaven Cries) is based on Jocelyn’s life experience, having lost loved ones in the mudslides of St. Bernard, Leyte. The story captures the pain, the internal struggles and the healing that takes place when faced with life-changing events. Ang Kapatid Kong Si Elvis (My Brother Elvis) is centered on a boy who ate pebbles to satisfy his hunger and a GK volunteer’s family who adopted him as their own. The story captures the challenges and rewards of being involved with GK. Marie, is a story on how tragic loss is transformed into a living legacy and a new beginning. Marie Rose Abad perished in the twin tower tragedy of 9/11. Rudy Abad honors his wife with a living legacy
Starring: Cesar Montano, Maricel Soriano, Ricky Davao, Robert Arevalo, Carmi Martin Michael V. and Lilia Dizon
My Notes: I was excited to watch on a bigger screen a more recent movie starring actors whom I'm still familiar with, having been away for over 3 years now (as of this writing) from the Philippines. I was still in the Philippines when that tragedy at Liloan, Leyte happened. I was not aware it was THAT bad; I'm grateful they made a movie out of it. I could not help but feel so sad watching the episode on the Liloan tragedy (I actually got to meet some people who were from that place back in the Philippines years before it happened, and I wonder where could they be now. Maybe they, or their loved ones perished in the tragedy).
The second episode's stylishly directed, cheerful in perspective (although it tackles how poverty drives some children to eat rocks, yes, real rocks), and made more fun to watch. This is perhaps to help make the experience of watching this trilogy lighter (it's just simply sad, overall---who wants to be seeing portrayals of tragedy, poverty, powerlessness in movies that merely just reflect what seemingly are very ordinary but largely being escaped from, at least for a moment, by people when they watch "happier" shows on TV and the big screen?). It's cute, and humorous, and definitely more visually interesting because of the production design that went with it. I enjoyed watching the play of colors in the houses shown in this episode, including the dog house!
The third episode's again heartbreaking, and more familiar, with myself based here in NYC. But it's wee bit dramatized than needed (just like episode 1). Perhaps, this is to make the movie more appealing to the tastes of the usual viewer (but who's a typical viewer, really?). It's about a woman who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Her husband, who's a Philippine native, made a brave effort, despite extreme grief, to build a legacy in her memory by helping out in providing houses to poverty-stricken people back in the Philippines. It's got wonderful, hopeful tone, that makes one ponder about these circumstances in life in the context of what you still have now.
On the overall, I'm happier having watched this movie, even if it's got more gloomy depictions of scenes from real life (but what can you do? these things really happened, and still happening).
Thurs–20 Aug
6:30 pm
Baler – (2008) In 1898, a band of Spanish soldiers heroically defended Baler (which would later be the capital municipality of Aurora in 1951) against Filipino forces for 337 long and grueling days. The battle, now referred to as the Siege of Baler, is the setting of a forbidden love between a Spanish-Indio soldier and Filipina lass who lived at the end of the 19th century. Directed by Mark Meilly, the movie swept 10 of 21 trophies in the 2008 Metro Manila Film Fest,; starring Anne Curtis and Jericho Rosales.
My Notes: Thanks for the YouTube vids that I embedded here. There's just a missing part that was not included in Video 1. It showed integral scenes about what happened to the former chief of the Spanish military forces then in Baler. In those not-shown scenes, we would see that the Spanish Officer chose instead to commit suicide than to be captured by the revolutionaries who were then surrounding him. Indeed, for him, there was no honorable way but to give up one's life.
I'm simply impressed by this stylishly crafted movie behind what took place in the last contingent of the Spaniards who refused to surrender to the revolutionary forces that were representing the nascent Philippine republic in 1898. It's one of the best re-telling of one good story on what happened in during the Philippine revolution. I've always been curious what happened during those revolutionary periods in Philippines history.
For the benefit of showing another perspective, I'm also copy-pasting here the movie "Los Ultimos de Filipinas" for your consideration.
Thurs–27 Aug
6:30 pm
Inang Yaya – (2007) Because Norma must work in the city, she has to leave behind her daughter Ruby in the province with her mother. But when nobody can look after Ruby anymore, Norma has no choice but to bring Ruby to live with her in the house of her employers and the latter's daughter Louise. There, Norma must try to balance who she devotes her attention to: her own daughter or her ward? Directed by Pablo Biglangawa and Veronica Velasco
My Notes: This is an unusual movie among the other movies included in this roster. We don't usually think of househelpers as "heroes" but public policy dictates that we elevate them to a pedestal, given stereotyped ideas about them found in almost all available media. We actually make fun of them, as they're usually beneath our respective social status. As mentioned also by the Philippine Consulate - NYC's Cultural Attache, they're our "modern heroes," with special mention to those who would still have to go abroad to find domestic jobs that are expected to pay better because of foreign money translation advantages.
But what's more interesting about this movie is that the heroine chose to stay in the Philippines rather than accept the offer of her handlers to join them when they had to move to Singapore. She would rather give up her job where she got so attached to her ward, and spend time taking care of her own child. This is a very revolutionary twist, so to say, and for this, this movie has to be applauded for presenting a more positive and faithful approach on how regular folks would most probably decide if given the chance to go abroad just to work, earn better, but without the rest of their beloved family members. And also, as shown in the characters of "bosses" who had to move abroad when offered better assignments, it's always those who have the advantages in terms of wealth, education, and social background who are expected to move to foreign shores just as to maximize their potentials. Local conditions as they are, would never suffice. I just wonder when the time would come that such "advantages" would be distributed more equitably to majority of the sectors of Philippine society --- only the best leaders, national and local, who are in positions of power, authority and influence, and whose hearts and interests really represent those of ordinary folks like "househelpers" will make this possibility a reality. It will surely happen, one of these days...
Thurs–03 Sep
6:30 pm
Bayani – (1992) Set during the war of Independence from Spanish colonial rule in the late 19th century, the story centers on the life of Andres Bonifacio, founder of the Katipunan and outstanding leader of the 1986 revolution against Spain. The film focuses on Bonifacio’s internal conflicts amidst the factionalism rocking the Katipunan movement. Directed by Raymond Red, starring Julio Diaz, John Arcilla and Ronnie Lazaro
My Notes: At the last day of "Sinehan sa Summer 2009: "Bayani," the Philippine Consulate in NYC, in true Filipino fashion provided yummy snack food to all attendees. There were easily around 40 people who attended this last screening; I was with two other friends I'd be seeing in events once in a while outside of the Consulate.
As to this movie, I have found it to be rather disturbing. After going home, I did some search on the material to add to this posting update. There's none, or I must have not exhausted the pages online. I settled instead on embedding here YouTube vids on GMA's I-Witness documentaries, where they also featured short vids about Raymond Red's Bayani. I'm actually getting more intrigued by the stories. The idea, that Bonifacio is actually the first Philippine President, deserves more closer look and consideration. I wonder what would have happened with Philippine politics if Bonifacio indeed turned out to be its first President? Will the authorities, specifically the Philippine Congress, to be advised by the National Historical Institute, and other institutions, display extra ordinary leadership by finally declaring that Andres Bonifacio is indeed the Philippines' first president? There was obvious rigging that took place during the elections held during the Tejeros Convention. I remember reading about the story from my history book in elementary grades that was written by Agoncillo. There were disturbing parts of the story that have to be investigated and researched on. Apart from the fact that we can again say that "politics is (always) local," some misgivings, grievances during the proceeding in the Tejeros Convention still cry out to be given notice, and appreciated in the light of what's has been happening nowadays. Will something like this ever happen again, anyway? Anyway, we can always have great dreams.
NEW YORK – The Philippine Consulate General New York, in cooperation with the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA), coordinating producer Vince Nebrida, and Xoom.com proudly presents “Sinehan sa Summer 2009:‘Bayani’”, a once-a-week free screening of films starting on the 2nd of July and ending on the 3rd of September 2009. All Filipino films will have English sub-titles.
Date Film & synopsis
Thurs- 02 Jul
Opening Night
6:30 pm
Great Raid – (2005) As Gen. Douglas MacArthur made good on a pledge that he would return to the Philippines, over 500 American soldiers were being held in Cabanatuan, a notoriously brutal prisoner of war camp. Lt. Col. Henry Mucci (Benjamin Bratt) was appointed to lead the Sixth Ranger Battalion on a mission 30 miles behind enemy lines to infiltrate Cabanatuan and liberate the American prisoners. Directed by John Dahl.
Starring Benjamin Bratt, James Franco, Connie Nielsen, Cesar Montano, Rez Cortes
My Notes: Didn't see this as I was in other events available in the city; I heard from other viewers I met at the Consulate tonight that this was one "good movie."
Thurs–09 Jul
6:30 pm
Back to Bataan Р(1945) The film opens right after US Army raid at Cabanatuan prisoner of war camp, and as American forces under Gen. MacArthur are forced to pull out of Bataan: Colonel Joseph Madden (John Wayne) of the US Army stay behind to organize the guerrilla resistance. One of his officers, Captain Andres Bonifacio (Anthony Quinn) carries a heavy burden .Not only does he have to live up being the grandson of national hero Andres Bonifacio, but his former fianc̩e Dalisay Delgado is apparently collaborating with the Japanese.
Directed by Edward Dmytryk. Starring John Wayne, Anthony Quinn
My Notes: This movie was certainly a huge revelation particularly to those born in the late 60s like myself, though prior to seeing it, I was feeling squeaky as nobody among my other friends would like to see this film with me. Actually, I didn't know that this would be shown tonight, I just thought I have to watch these movies being shown at the Consulate as I've not seen Filipino movies for some time now.
It's refreshing to see a Hollywood produced movie on the Philippines after a long while now, considering that Hollywood production nowadays are mostly done in countries other than the Philippines (though certainly, parts of a movie in production may be done or completed in the Philippines but not necessarily given outright credit. I know this for a fact for certain big blockbuster animated movies.). It's also very refreshing to hear Tagalog actually used in a movie done by foreigners, and I felt OK listening to the actors not using a different accent or tone just to please those not comfortable with spoken English with Filipino accent. Come on guys, Filipinos speak English in the Philippines in its own peculiar accent, as it's part and parcel of the American heritage, the Philippines being part of the US until the end of WWII.
It's strange seeing this movie here in NYC, of all places, and with at least 10 other moviegoers at the Philippine Consulate. It's great these movies are being offered to those interested. It's also great to know that John Wayne actually did movies that show the Philippines in them (I've always seen him in movies depicting cowboys). I was told by my friend Bart Rosenberg that there's actually another John Wayne movie where he's sexier (in military outfits) doing fighting scenes in the Philippines ("They Were Expendable") which he also thought was "a very accurate film by Hollywood standards."
I also take personal interest on films depicting WWII in the Philippines as my paternal grandfather died during the war, being a soldier. I was told by my late father that he died when the jeepney he was driving hit a landmine, instantly killing him and another officer.
Wed-15 Jul
6:30 pm
Sakay Р(1993) A dramatic retelling of the life of Macario Sakay Рa Katipunero, he fought alongside Andres Bonifacio during the Philippine Revolution of 1896, until his capture near the end of the Philippine-American War. He was granted amnesty and was freed after 4 July 1902, and formed the Nacionalista Party. After his party was banned under Sedition laws, he once again took arms and, in April 1904, he proclaimed himself President and established his own government called the Rep̼blika ng Katagalugan (Tagalog Republic) in opposition to U.S. colonial rule. After a false promise of amnesty, he surrendered on July 14, 1906, and was later executed by hanging.
Directed by Raymond Red, starring Julio Diaz, Techie Agbayani and Pen Medina
“Sakay” the film won the 1994 FAMAS Award for Best art direction, for both Danny Red and Raymond Red.
My Notes: I'm delighted to see that there's a bigger number of viewers tonight. I felt awkward but later on had fun seeing actors depicting heroes on screen wearing their hair long. It has become a personal experience to me, then, as I wear long hair myself (which I realize annoys certain people, but at the same time, attracts attention from more people to me for some unclear reason).
The film's gorgeously designed and art directed----given the limits (which I believe is true for most films) on budget, I'm greatly impressed by the efforts of the filmmakers to present this movie in the most authentic setting they could muster and find about for the total viewing experience of the moviegoer. I'm also amazed that such movie like gets to be ever produced. And I'm also more surprised that I know a big number of people who have seen this movie years ago, and I've failed to go out of my way to watch it (when I was still in the Philippines). It's not the easiest movie to watch, as it's tackling about sensitive and still rather fresh issues that creep into one's mind when reading and hearing about the American occupation in the Philippines (I can surmise that the US government, particularly its military forces, have learned a lot from its exposure, including bad ones, in colonizing the Philippines at the turn of 20th century. And these lessons gained have been the basis of much improved strategies and tactics being used in the current wars where the US is involved).
Thurs–23 Jul
6:30 pm
The Forgotten War (Korean War) – (2009) Is an independent film produced by Smoke and Mirrors Entertainment about the Philippine participation in the Korean War. The film recounts the stories from the four (4) Battalion Combat Teams (BCTs) sent to Korea under the United Nations Command. They were known as the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea (PEPTOK). The film recreates important battle scenes and shares the stories of the soldiers finding courage, dedication, strength, and love as they faced adversities amidst the tragic backdrop of war.
Starring: Arnold Reyes (playing the young Fidel V. Ramos), Baron Geisler, Yul Servo, Kyla Lapus, Lance Raymundo, Mikee Lee, Mcoy Fundales, among others.
Directed by Carlo Cruz
My Notes: I was a bit undecided whether to watch this film tonight as the rains have continued to pour before the 6:30pm screening. But the thought that this could be a good opportunity for me to watch another indie movie that's recently made and shown in the Philippines prevailed in me. The audience that gathered to watch the movie tonight was not as big compared with last week.
I like to give much applause for joined efforts combined together to make this film. You seldom actually see movies made about the subject matter (Philippine participation in the Korean War in the 1950s); that's considered "very brave." Still, I'm not as impressed over the finished product; certain things were amiss. It has the feel of a "made-for-TV-movie" with docu materials added into it. I just wonder why all the soldiers (from the lowest rank to the officers) were not sporting military haircut. And why add a romantic angle towards the end? It then looked like mixed and matched, making the movie looked like it's making big attempts to please everyone, though I have a feeling the reason could be to make the whole subject matter lighter to follow. But it's odd that I found it funny to see that the attempts made were to highlight how strongly linked the Philippines and South Korea are as nations (perhaps this will include North Korea in due time). Plus there was an ingenious way of citing what happened to those war heroes (including a love match that happened during the Korean War, and still continuing in another mode by venturing into the restaurant business that still thrives somewhere in Jupiter Street in Makati. I'm just amused at how certain small trivia could get into the picture, thus muddling what the whole film was all about LOL).
Wed–05 Aug
6:30 pm
Corregidor – (1943) shortly after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, an American doctor and his staff on Corregidor try to treat the sick, injured and wounded as troops desperately try to beat back a ferocious Japanese attack. The film starts as a love story but becomes a story of the horrors of war as the Japanese lay siege upon Corregidor.
Directed by William Nigh. Starring: Otto Kruger, Elissa Landi, Donald Woods, Frank Jenks
My Notes: This movie didn't interest me much, mainly because it looked like a propaganda movie. But it's got some interesting storyline that was not well developed: a man who was willing to give up his recent marriage so that his wife could be with her former beau with whom she's still very much in love. As shown in the movie, the story turned out to be a bit off and uninspired, and I knew I've seen better stories even from made-for-TV movies. But there were interesting footages including the kamikaze planes by the Japanese when they were invading and bombarding parts of the Philippines during WWII. The copy during the screening was bad, with its sound a bit garbled. I was happy I got to see parts of the movie on YouTube which I copy-pasted here; please feel free to watch (I think watching this film here is even a better experience than the one we viewers tonight had). I noted there were several older men who looked like veterans who were in the audience.
I've been to Corregidor one time during one unplanned visit, when I joined some friends who invited me the last minute. It turned out to be a great place to visit---it's feels like holy ground. What the Americans have built in the island before the war could have been very impressive, judging from the ruins. I also remember seeing a lighthouse, which is really pretty and picturesque.
Thurs–13 Aug
6:30 pm
Paraiso – (2007) A Pilgrimage of Hope, a Response to Heroism, a Pledge of Honor.
Three inspiring true-to life Gawad Kalinga stories weaved in a powerful movie trilogy that promises to change your life. The Trilogy: Umiyak Man ang Langit (Even if Heaven Cries) is based on Jocelyn’s life experience, having lost loved ones in the mudslides of St. Bernard, Leyte. The story captures the pain, the internal struggles and the healing that takes place when faced with life-changing events. Ang Kapatid Kong Si Elvis (My Brother Elvis) is centered on a boy who ate pebbles to satisfy his hunger and a GK volunteer’s family who adopted him as their own. The story captures the challenges and rewards of being involved with GK. Marie, is a story on how tragic loss is transformed into a living legacy and a new beginning. Marie Rose Abad perished in the twin tower tragedy of 9/11. Rudy Abad honors his wife with a living legacy
Starring: Cesar Montano, Maricel Soriano, Ricky Davao, Robert Arevalo, Carmi Martin Michael V. and Lilia Dizon
My Notes: I was excited to watch on a bigger screen a more recent movie starring actors whom I'm still familiar with, having been away for over 3 years now (as of this writing) from the Philippines. I was still in the Philippines when that tragedy at Liloan, Leyte happened. I was not aware it was THAT bad; I'm grateful they made a movie out of it. I could not help but feel so sad watching the episode on the Liloan tragedy (I actually got to meet some people who were from that place back in the Philippines years before it happened, and I wonder where could they be now. Maybe they, or their loved ones perished in the tragedy).
The second episode's stylishly directed, cheerful in perspective (although it tackles how poverty drives some children to eat rocks, yes, real rocks), and made more fun to watch. This is perhaps to help make the experience of watching this trilogy lighter (it's just simply sad, overall---who wants to be seeing portrayals of tragedy, poverty, powerlessness in movies that merely just reflect what seemingly are very ordinary but largely being escaped from, at least for a moment, by people when they watch "happier" shows on TV and the big screen?). It's cute, and humorous, and definitely more visually interesting because of the production design that went with it. I enjoyed watching the play of colors in the houses shown in this episode, including the dog house!
The third episode's again heartbreaking, and more familiar, with myself based here in NYC. But it's wee bit dramatized than needed (just like episode 1). Perhaps, this is to make the movie more appealing to the tastes of the usual viewer (but who's a typical viewer, really?). It's about a woman who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Her husband, who's a Philippine native, made a brave effort, despite extreme grief, to build a legacy in her memory by helping out in providing houses to poverty-stricken people back in the Philippines. It's got wonderful, hopeful tone, that makes one ponder about these circumstances in life in the context of what you still have now.
On the overall, I'm happier having watched this movie, even if it's got more gloomy depictions of scenes from real life (but what can you do? these things really happened, and still happening).
Thurs–20 Aug
6:30 pm
Baler – (2008) In 1898, a band of Spanish soldiers heroically defended Baler (which would later be the capital municipality of Aurora in 1951) against Filipino forces for 337 long and grueling days. The battle, now referred to as the Siege of Baler, is the setting of a forbidden love between a Spanish-Indio soldier and Filipina lass who lived at the end of the 19th century. Directed by Mark Meilly, the movie swept 10 of 21 trophies in the 2008 Metro Manila Film Fest,; starring Anne Curtis and Jericho Rosales.
My Notes: Thanks for the YouTube vids that I embedded here. There's just a missing part that was not included in Video 1. It showed integral scenes about what happened to the former chief of the Spanish military forces then in Baler. In those not-shown scenes, we would see that the Spanish Officer chose instead to commit suicide than to be captured by the revolutionaries who were then surrounding him. Indeed, for him, there was no honorable way but to give up one's life.
I'm simply impressed by this stylishly crafted movie behind what took place in the last contingent of the Spaniards who refused to surrender to the revolutionary forces that were representing the nascent Philippine republic in 1898. It's one of the best re-telling of one good story on what happened in during the Philippine revolution. I've always been curious what happened during those revolutionary periods in Philippines history.
For the benefit of showing another perspective, I'm also copy-pasting here the movie "Los Ultimos de Filipinas" for your consideration.
Thurs–27 Aug
6:30 pm
Inang Yaya – (2007) Because Norma must work in the city, she has to leave behind her daughter Ruby in the province with her mother. But when nobody can look after Ruby anymore, Norma has no choice but to bring Ruby to live with her in the house of her employers and the latter's daughter Louise. There, Norma must try to balance who she devotes her attention to: her own daughter or her ward? Directed by Pablo Biglangawa and Veronica Velasco
My Notes: This is an unusual movie among the other movies included in this roster. We don't usually think of househelpers as "heroes" but public policy dictates that we elevate them to a pedestal, given stereotyped ideas about them found in almost all available media. We actually make fun of them, as they're usually beneath our respective social status. As mentioned also by the Philippine Consulate - NYC's Cultural Attache, they're our "modern heroes," with special mention to those who would still have to go abroad to find domestic jobs that are expected to pay better because of foreign money translation advantages.
But what's more interesting about this movie is that the heroine chose to stay in the Philippines rather than accept the offer of her handlers to join them when they had to move to Singapore. She would rather give up her job where she got so attached to her ward, and spend time taking care of her own child. This is a very revolutionary twist, so to say, and for this, this movie has to be applauded for presenting a more positive and faithful approach on how regular folks would most probably decide if given the chance to go abroad just to work, earn better, but without the rest of their beloved family members. And also, as shown in the characters of "bosses" who had to move abroad when offered better assignments, it's always those who have the advantages in terms of wealth, education, and social background who are expected to move to foreign shores just as to maximize their potentials. Local conditions as they are, would never suffice. I just wonder when the time would come that such "advantages" would be distributed more equitably to majority of the sectors of Philippine society --- only the best leaders, national and local, who are in positions of power, authority and influence, and whose hearts and interests really represent those of ordinary folks like "househelpers" will make this possibility a reality. It will surely happen, one of these days...
Thurs–03 Sep
6:30 pm
Bayani – (1992) Set during the war of Independence from Spanish colonial rule in the late 19th century, the story centers on the life of Andres Bonifacio, founder of the Katipunan and outstanding leader of the 1986 revolution against Spain. The film focuses on Bonifacio’s internal conflicts amidst the factionalism rocking the Katipunan movement. Directed by Raymond Red, starring Julio Diaz, John Arcilla and Ronnie Lazaro
My Notes: At the last day of "Sinehan sa Summer 2009: "Bayani," the Philippine Consulate in NYC, in true Filipino fashion provided yummy snack food to all attendees. There were easily around 40 people who attended this last screening; I was with two other friends I'd be seeing in events once in a while outside of the Consulate.
As to this movie, I have found it to be rather disturbing. After going home, I did some search on the material to add to this posting update. There's none, or I must have not exhausted the pages online. I settled instead on embedding here YouTube vids on GMA's I-Witness documentaries, where they also featured short vids about Raymond Red's Bayani. I'm actually getting more intrigued by the stories. The idea, that Bonifacio is actually the first Philippine President, deserves more closer look and consideration. I wonder what would have happened with Philippine politics if Bonifacio indeed turned out to be its first President? Will the authorities, specifically the Philippine Congress, to be advised by the National Historical Institute, and other institutions, display extra ordinary leadership by finally declaring that Andres Bonifacio is indeed the Philippines' first president? There was obvious rigging that took place during the elections held during the Tejeros Convention. I remember reading about the story from my history book in elementary grades that was written by Agoncillo. There were disturbing parts of the story that have to be investigated and researched on. Apart from the fact that we can again say that "politics is (always) local," some misgivings, grievances during the proceeding in the Tejeros Convention still cry out to be given notice, and appreciated in the light of what's has been happening nowadays. Will something like this ever happen again, anyway? Anyway, we can always have great dreams.
6.23.2009
6.13.2009
"The Zen of Sarcasm"
A friend emailed me this with a greeting about the Philippines' 111th Independence Day. After some moments of indecisiveness, I finally decided to work on this post here, using the material as the post's major element. Would you care to hear more from me about this?
THE ZEN OF SARCASM
01. Do not walk ahead of me for I may not follow. Do not walk behind me for I may not lead. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me alone.
02. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and leaky tire.
03. It is always darkest before dawn. So if you're going to steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's the time to do it.
04. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.
05. Always remember that you're unique. Just like everyone else.
06. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.
07. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments.
08. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.
09. If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is probably not for you.
10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day .
11. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably a wise investment.
12. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.
13. Some days you're the bug; some days you're the windshield.
14. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.
15. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.
16. A closed mouth gathers no foot.
17. Duct tape is like 'The Force'. It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.
18. There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.
19. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving.
20. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.
21. Never miss a good chance to shut up.
AND
22. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.
5.13.2009
On Why "We Have a Choice"
I'm reposting here to a note from a friend (Jesrey Parado Valencia) about his thoughts on having a choice, and being responsible for our choices. Yes, "life is deserve" as some other philosophers have said and repeatedly reminded us before. "Life's what you make of it" others admonish us as well. It's in reading, and writing about these timeless precepts that we get lulled out from the comforts of our self-imposed boundaries mainly by choice, slowly without us recognizing the process. Do I have to tell you time and again that life's harsh, difficult? It can be as rough as we can imagine it to be, not even thinking about our circumstances now. After doing so much hard work at the end of the day, we need to get rested and take time to meditate on what's still beautiful in life. Or we can choose to stop for a while and meditate for a minute. The shifting can get demanding for some. But can be worth it. It's when we need to see beyond the ugliness of whatever surrounds us on the surface, and focus our gaze on this very moment. I choose to think I have wonderful life. I choose to live the life I want. I choose to go on loving, and sharing what I've got.
We Have A Choice
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Yesterday at 11:09pm
How many of us is willing to live the life of Prince Siddharta in order to reach “nirvana” or perfect happiness? Are you willing to renounce all your wealth, lifestyle and worldly pleasure, pick up an empty bowl with just your robe and wander yourself to the streets of San Francisco, Tokyo, Paris or even Honolulu? And you would be proclaimed, “Buddha – the enlightened one!” I don’t think so! And the answer would be a resounding “NOoo!”
Well, you don’t have to endure suffering to be happy. It may not be as perfect as what you get in a complete state of nirvana but you can be happy – a lot happier than now.
I am sure a lot of you would agree with me if I say that a lot of us (maybe all of us) have felt shortchanged at least once in their lives or is it an ongoing saga and all you can do is hate and be jealous with the more successful ones? You think that some people have it all and you don’t? It may be simple things such as a bag, belt, shoes and other luxury items to money, a dream job, a fancy car, a lover, sanity or simply a “life”. Well, think again. No man and I tell you No man has it all. There’s that “beast” in us that still craves for more. The insatiable monster inside us eats us from within our deepest core and threatens to destroy us.
In my entire existence ever since I can pinpoint the four corners of this universe, east, west, north… I have always thought and wondered why some have more and some so little if not nothing. Is it fate? Is it eternal damnation for others to live in poverty and for some to just lie on a bed of roses and squander their wealth like there is no tomorrow? First, unlike many fellow Pinoys, I don’t believe in fate who would just wait for anything that comes along and be contented. It’s like waiting and waiting until the bucket full of luck comes rolling by. Well, I am through with that crap. Not anymore anyway. Life is what you make it. It is not served in a silver platter, never been that way! If you want something and been dreaming of it, go get it! But mind you, there is no easy trip. You only get what you put into it.
As far as I am concerned, my career is still a standstill (I would probably never be contented) but I have chosen to be happy. I remember myself one time going out late at night in the streets of Manila and I got to see these poor unfortunate, homeless people. And I definitely felt for them and at the same time, I tried counting my blessings. A little boy wanders towards me and begs for some spare change. I dug into my pocket and found some and gave to him. A big smile broke into his dirty face and with a big “thanks” he left. I realized that I should be the one thanking him and not him thanking me. He just reminded me that I’ve got a lot to be happy about. Although happiness is better felt than said, nonetheless I got to count them from time to time. Among others, I have a happy family, living in perfect harmony; I have two of the loveliest dogs in the whole wide world that give me unconditional love; I have good, sincere and honest friends to hang out with; I can travel wherever and whenever I feel like going to without much worries; I finished my studies and I own a roof over my head in one of the most desired cities in the world; I eat three meals a day (if I wanted to); and best of all God loves me! What more could I ask for? Well, still a lot actually. Like, what I’ve told you, we always want more and strive for higher adventure but that doesn’t mean it’s always bad.
Ambitions, dreams or aspirations are what keep me going. Not much for my selfish end anymore (never been anyway) but more on providing the best education to my family’s new generation thereby seeing their full potential and help a bit to my needy neighbors. I also dream for new technology and inventions that would make our lives even easier and more comfortable to live as a result of people’s never-ending quest for that “good” life. But to that goal, we should learn to smile and still appreciate all the good things around us. The stops we make to help a friend in need – regardless of color religion, ethnicity etc., the traffic that stalls us- going or coming from work, but allows us to listen and sing along our favorite songs, the times the power go out and stop us from watching our most awaited television show and just have that quiet evening with our loved ones and many more.
Today, I choose to be happy and so should you. Sure, life is not perfect but who said it would be? A great thinker once said, “It does not matter how slowly you go, for as long as you do not stop.” And I refuse to stop, really.
Life is good but short. Let’s learn to enjoy it. Hand me that glass of wine honey! Cheers…
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