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Showing posts with label Filipinos in NYC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Filipinos in NYC. Show all posts
8.30.2023
First Time Radio Interview Done with Danton Remoto
My brother recorded this video on my first radio interview ever, which happened after I accepted the invite of Danton Remoto, and we did it on the birthday of my brother who recorded the video on his phone. This was about Filipinos abroad, and Danton probably thought that since I am based here in New York City, it's a good idea to hear about what I could share. My brother posted it also on his website, and I have since then downloaded it and shared it, all of which took so much time, in my YouTube page. I shared also the video to some classmates from college, in addition to some relatives. It was an exhilirating experience, and I was grateful for the opportunity. It came out to be 21 minutes, over than what Danton told me to be a typical 15-minute interview. Any thoughts on it? What do you think of it? Lemme know and feel free to comment. Thank you!
8.17.2016
Some Updates of a New York City Transplant As of Today's Date
I wonder what was I thinking when I inadvertently took this phone shot while on the subway here in NYC.I have missed sharing in this blogspot. I haven't posted here for sometime, and here are some updates:
1) I've moved again from Stapleton, Staten Island to Inwood in Manhattan. You take the A train to its last stop here in this borough. This is the same neighborhood where I used to live for at least 6 years ago. It's great to be back here, and am grateful for the opportunity. It's a great feeling sensing that there are a lot of artists living and creating their works in this nabe.
2) I've been gradually replacing the income I get from my part-time jobs with that of the income I make from my online businesses. This is really a fascinating process that I've been learning to do better each day. Nothing beats becoming an entrepreneur as my chosen path towards being able to do full time engagement as a writer and creative artist eventually while I am based in New York City (NYC). From so many experiences, I've figured out that this approach works best for me. After so many failures I met along the way, this direction has become so clear in my mind and sensibilities. Gratefully, I have embraced each one of these failures without self-hatred and recrimination.
3) As in the past 10 years, I'll continue to be based most of the time here in NYC, unless a business situation calls for me to move or travel, even briefly, to another place. I'll settle for local traveling only for now. It's a chaotic but really dazzling city to live and pursue my endeavors, and which city I've learned to like more each day I stay here.
4) If you want to know some information as to what I am into in my private life, I have been actively pursuing polyamory since the past years of my stay here in NYC. Feel free to check out what the word means exactly. I will definitely judge you if you judge me, especially if I sense you're doing it and not coming from a place of love. My relationships have afforded me to experience first hand that these are wonderful, interesting, challenging lives we all collectively have and lead. We're actually just minuscule dust particles in this whole wide universe. As those of us have learned belatedly, our lives are too brief to be spent in very unpleasant situations most of our waking time. Life is hard (you know that, don't you?). Go, and do whatever it is that makes your heart throb and jump. And engage in it with passion and total desire.
5) I'm looking forward to retiring from doing part-time jobs. That situation is happening soon. If you're dreaming about that situation for yourself, too, then feel free to connect with me one way or another. Let's help each other retire from doing full time or part time jobs. For sure, the paradigm that at least 3 generations ago have believed on getting full time employment to help themselves accomplish their dreams has been switched to other, more updated paradigms these days. It will not really harm you if you do some switching now. Let me show you some much better options now. The thing is that you still need to take action, OK?
6) I've reached half a century last April this year. I didn't really grow older without accumulating so many lessons from my experiences. I'm grateful for all the compliments telling me that I definitely look younger than my age (check my Facebook profile here). It's really a combination of factors, including genetics, my daily supplements intake, my skincare regimen, plus leading an active lifestyle. Let me know if you want to know more about these areas in my life.
Given all these distractions we face each moment of our lives, I wish all readers here the very best with their lives.
See you again!SHAMELESS PLUGS:
Thank you for checking this posting out. Being in a capitalist country, I will take this opportunity, too, to share my stakes in various business engagements I currently find my self in. You may check these stakes I have here in whatever manner available to you (given changes in procedures we have from time to time), copy and paste them on your browser (if that works for you), and be more than curious with plenty of other things out there. Thank you again.
Invest in REAL ESTATE: https://fundrise.com/r/eo9x3
Get a FREE STOCK: https://join.robinhood.com/jeromeb846
Open your Fidelity broker's account, too (I got one, too!): https://fidelity.app.link/e/iy3f8YYfbCb
I also have an account with Interactive Brokers, where I mostly buy shares that are not easy to acquire thru the usual other brokers' sites; you can open your own account there, too (and I will earn a USD 200 if you do, thank you!): https://ibkr.com/referral/jerome597
And for anything online shopping that you may be always on the lookout for, especially on bestselling products and priced best, check this: https://amzn.to/3qlanEM
I also have a chain of online stores thru a franchise system, please feel free to check it out: https://affiliate.shop.com/join/register?referralEmail=dyerohmeb@gmail.com&referralPublisherID=AP3060300
I have been using supplements as part of my healthcare regimen, and they work well for me. And I get them from my own online store. Here's the link for you to check and explore:
https://www.shop.com/isotonix-daily-essentials-packets-935461732-p.xhtml?publisherID=AP3060300(WHEN YOU BUY OR SUBSCRIBE THROUGH SOME OF MY LINKS I SHARE HERE, I MAY MAKE A COMMISSION. THANK YOU! THEY WILL GO A LONG WAY IN HELPING ME CREATE AND SHARE THESE CREATIONS HERE. THANK YOU, AGAIN.)
6.21.2014
Of Knowing A Filipino Who Has Really Made It Rich Here In NYC
I've been here in New York City (NYC) for over 8 years now and I am happy to share that I've met and known some Filipinos who have made it rich in this city. Additionally, I've met and known so many other rich people here, some of whom I've worked for as I've done part-time gigs with them to eke out a living in this very expensive city to live in. I've met some who are actually billionaires but they behave very ordinarily like normal individuals. I realize that NYC's set of structure and regulatory environment allows such lives to thrive here, and the narrative I'm sharing here is repeated regularly in many other individual lives in this city. He will remain nameless here to protect his privacy as I've not asked his permission to write about my thoughts on the friendship he and I have. We normally see each other with some other common friends, and I'm grateful to have known him better each time I see him.
He's someone who has owned and managed at least 11 units of condominium units located right in Manhattan, if I recall the number right. Do your research and you'll see he's easily a millionaire. I understand that most of these properties are 1 or 2 bedroom units in walk-up apartment buildings. He's a very hardworking fellow, single, and happy with what he's been doing with his assets. In fact, he and I would talk about our respective businesses, and I see that he's got an empathetic heart as well as a really good pair of hearing ears. He really listens to you, even if you get a sense that he's always busy --- he's got 3 cellphones that he uses for different purposes. During our talks, he would excuse himself, take calls, and do texting. And he would come back to me and just go about talking with me as if there were no earlier interruptions that had come and go.
Of course, he's also a tightwad, which trait is nothing extraordinary among really rich people. I see that as a common trait among these people, and it's something that I have to practice all the time myself. He would do his food shopping for really cheap food items at the right locations in Manhattan at times when these food items are sold at really bargain prices, i.e., when they're already been the leftovers from those most buyers have chosen from early in the day.
He would still be doing part-time jobs even when he has already owned and been renting out at least 11 condominium units in Manhattan (I know they're mostly in the east side of the island). I think it's mainly for cashflow reasons, as you know very well that ups and downs in business can be a challenge to manage. He would hire specialists and helpers so that his condominium units would be cleaned, maintained, and in their spick-and-span state for renters. He tells me that he has to get them rented out all the time so he would have cash flow from them---it's a very serious and complicated business to own and run real estate properties here in Manhattan where you'll see some of the most expensive properties in the whole world. In fact, a lot of owners would hire the services of real estate firms to manage their properties for them. Such is not the case with my friend, who is always up and running in managing his properties.
He's also one of the few guys I met who knows and understands that real and hard cash in NYC are in the hands of a few well connected individuals, some of whom live in Staten Island. He's dealt with some of them when he needed to borrow some cash to help him bridge some of his monthly financial obligations---such loans are normally not available through banks, and would just be loaned out to those who have the assets to back up such amounts of money. I know he's paid off the the lender, and has since then been focusing in growing the size of his portfolio.
He would tell me in one of our conversations that a lot of people here in NYC are not used to dealing with landlords of these Manhattan-based apartments whose looks look like him and who are from the Philippines. He has to assert his interests and take action so people would take him seriously and would do what he wants. He's got his share of problems, which are common in situations in life that are worth pursuing for long term gains and benefits. He continues to deal with court cases that he has to attend to personally so his side would be heard clearly and right by the judge and the members of the juries for each of these cases. I have to know more about the details of these cases some other time.
He gives encouragement to me mainly in the form of his presence and his friendship. He tells me that he used to do several full time jobs many years ago. He's got his heart where his personal interests lie -- in his very intelligent and practical mind honed by experience in NYC, which asset I seldom see these days from most people I meet here.
He's someone who has owned and managed at least 11 units of condominium units located right in Manhattan, if I recall the number right. Do your research and you'll see he's easily a millionaire. I understand that most of these properties are 1 or 2 bedroom units in walk-up apartment buildings. He's a very hardworking fellow, single, and happy with what he's been doing with his assets. In fact, he and I would talk about our respective businesses, and I see that he's got an empathetic heart as well as a really good pair of hearing ears. He really listens to you, even if you get a sense that he's always busy --- he's got 3 cellphones that he uses for different purposes. During our talks, he would excuse himself, take calls, and do texting. And he would come back to me and just go about talking with me as if there were no earlier interruptions that had come and go.
Of course, he's also a tightwad, which trait is nothing extraordinary among really rich people. I see that as a common trait among these people, and it's something that I have to practice all the time myself. He would do his food shopping for really cheap food items at the right locations in Manhattan at times when these food items are sold at really bargain prices, i.e., when they're already been the leftovers from those most buyers have chosen from early in the day.
He would still be doing part-time jobs even when he has already owned and been renting out at least 11 condominium units in Manhattan (I know they're mostly in the east side of the island). I think it's mainly for cashflow reasons, as you know very well that ups and downs in business can be a challenge to manage. He would hire specialists and helpers so that his condominium units would be cleaned, maintained, and in their spick-and-span state for renters. He tells me that he has to get them rented out all the time so he would have cash flow from them---it's a very serious and complicated business to own and run real estate properties here in Manhattan where you'll see some of the most expensive properties in the whole world. In fact, a lot of owners would hire the services of real estate firms to manage their properties for them. Such is not the case with my friend, who is always up and running in managing his properties.
He's also one of the few guys I met who knows and understands that real and hard cash in NYC are in the hands of a few well connected individuals, some of whom live in Staten Island. He's dealt with some of them when he needed to borrow some cash to help him bridge some of his monthly financial obligations---such loans are normally not available through banks, and would just be loaned out to those who have the assets to back up such amounts of money. I know he's paid off the the lender, and has since then been focusing in growing the size of his portfolio.
He would tell me in one of our conversations that a lot of people here in NYC are not used to dealing with landlords of these Manhattan-based apartments whose looks look like him and who are from the Philippines. He has to assert his interests and take action so people would take him seriously and would do what he wants. He's got his share of problems, which are common in situations in life that are worth pursuing for long term gains and benefits. He continues to deal with court cases that he has to attend to personally so his side would be heard clearly and right by the judge and the members of the juries for each of these cases. I have to know more about the details of these cases some other time.
He gives encouragement to me mainly in the form of his presence and his friendship. He tells me that he used to do several full time jobs many years ago. He's got his heart where his personal interests lie -- in his very intelligent and practical mind honed by experience in NYC, which asset I seldom see these days from most people I meet here.
SHAMELESS PLUGS:
Thank you for checking this posting out. Being in a capitalist country, I will take this opportunity, too, to share my stakes in various business engagements I currently find my self in. You may check these stakes I have here in whatever manner available to you (given changes in procedures we have from time to time), copy and paste them on your browser (if that works for you), and be more than curious with plenty of other things out there. Thank you again.
Invest in REAL ESTATE: https://fundrise.com/r/eo9x3
Get a FREE STOCK: https://join.robinhood.com/jeromeb846
Open your Fidelity broker's account, too (I got one, too!): https://fidelity.app.link/e/iy3f8YYfbCb
I also have an account with Interactive Brokers, where I mostly buy shares that are not easy to acquire thru the usual other brokers' sites; you can open your own account there, too (and I will earn a USD 200 if you do, thank you!): https://ibkr.com/referral/jerome597
And for anything online shopping that you may be always on the lookout for, especially on bestselling products and priced best, check this: https://amzn.to/3qlanEM
I also have a chain of online stores thru a franchise system, please feel free to check it out: https://affiliate.shop.com/join/register?referralEmail=dyerohmeb@gmail.com&referralPublisherID=AP3060300
I have been using supplements as part of my healthcare regimen, and they work well for me. And I get them from my own online store. Here's the link for you to check and explore:
https://www.shop.com/isotonix-daily-essentials-packets-935461732-p.xhtml?publisherID=AP3060300(WHEN YOU BUY OR SUBSCRIBE THROUGH SOME OF MY LINKS I SHARE HERE, I MAY MAKE A COMMISSION. THANK YOU! THEY WILL GO A LONG WAY IN HELPING ME CREATE AND SHARE THESE CREATIONS HERE. THANK YOU, AGAIN.)
4.12.2014
My First Time Seeing Marshall Factora Doing A Cabaret
 |
| A shot I took using my celfone during Marshall Factora's cabaret at Pan De Sal in Manhattan last night. It's my honor to have me and be introduced to him by friends Roger & Carmelo, who, like Marshall, are artists in their own right. The intimate place was packed with people representing those you'd see typically in New York City. I recall listening to him singing and interpreting at least 10 songs, and members of the audience participated most happily. It's almost like a private affair but you get a sense that something good was happening that Friday night. We came for the food, which was awesome, and the entertainment that Marshall put up. We're glad to have been delighted beyond our expectations. Carmelo told me that Marshall also sings and plays the piano, and I'm looking forward to seeing him perform again one of these days. And Roger told me that Marshall has been staging these shows for years now, and both them worked together in past shows with other artists. |
 |
| I was seated among friends Roger and Carmelo, and also got the chance to meet new friends who have known, I would soon realize, one another for some time now. Marshall sang old and new favorites but I barely recall the titles now, with me being someone who barely recall lyrics and listen to music selections because of their tunes. But I remember Marshall singing Stevie Wonder's LATELY in the most heartfelt live performance to-date I've seen. It was lovely and I felt like recalling certain episodes in my own life, which got me remembering how wonderful great art really imitates life. Marshall did something beautiful last night. The musician accompanying him, likewise did a great job. The audience wasn't really an easy crowd to please. But everybody went home happy after enjoying brief time with friends and strangers with great food and great intimate show by Marshall. |
SHAMELESS PLUGS:
Thank you for checking this posting out. Being in a capitalist country, I will take this opportunity, too, to share my stakes in various business engagements I currently find my self in. You may check these stakes I have here in whatever manner available to you (given changes in procedures we have from time to time), copy and paste them on your browser (if that works for you), and be more than curious with plenty of other things out there. Thank you again.
Invest in REAL ESTATE: https://fundrise.com/r/eo9x3
Get a FREE STOCK: https://join.robinhood.com/jeromeb846
Open your Fidelity broker's account, too (I got one, too!): https://fidelity.app.link/e/iy3f8YYfbCb
I also have an account with Interactive Brokers, where I mostly buy shares that are not easy to acquire thru the usual other brokers' sites; you can open your own account there, too (and I will earn a USD 200 if you do, thank you!): https://ibkr.com/referral/jerome597
And for anything online shopping that you may be always on the lookout for, especially on bestselling products and priced best, check this: https://amzn.to/3qlanEM
I also have a chain of online stores thru a franchise system, please feel free to check it out: https://affiliate.shop.com/join/register?referralEmail=dyerohmeb@gmail.com&referralPublisherID=AP3060300
I have been using supplements as part of my healthcare regimen, and they work well for me. And I get them from my own online store. Here's the link for you to check and explore:
https://www.shop.com/isotonix-daily-essentials-packets-935461732-p.xhtml?publisherID=AP3060300(WHEN YOU BUY OR SUBSCRIBE THROUGH SOME OF MY LINKS I SHARE HERE, I MAY MAKE A COMMISSION. THANK YOU! THEY WILL GO A LONG WAY IN HELPING ME CREATE AND SHARE THESE CREATIONS HERE. THANK YOU, AGAIN.)
10.26.2013
The good life is having a great lunch with a good friend
My good friend, Roger Calvin, and I would find reasons to meet for lunch every now and then. These lunches almost always take place in his Roosevelt Island apartment, a place he has continuously maintained and kept very home-y, pleasant all these years. These lunches include having the best food that Roger will prepare from scratch. And it is not the same dishes that we would have each time we would have lunch, as Roger is very creative when it comes to hosting and preparing meals for his loved ones, friends, and relatives. You must have seen a number of pictures of these meals that he would lovingly prepare and serve his guests.
As a guest, you instantly get a sense that it is privileged experience you are soon to get into for the next few hours at Roger's place. Your eyes gaze into the view of the flowing East River that separates the island from Manhattan, which brief distance is bridged, among many choices, by the subway and the tram. In the comforts of the apartment, you are being served by someone like Roger who gives and shows prime value to shared home-cooked meals. And I get to know better the kind heart-ed person behind that man who was first introduced to me by a common friend who is based in Los Angeles, California, at least 4 years ago as of this writing. You get a sense of the peaceful lifestyle that Roger leads at his neck of the woods in that part of New York City.
The food he prepared this time deviated from the usual that he would come up in previous occasions that we had lunch. We had his version of fresh green salad mixed with his own dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey, pepper plus garnishing including walnuts, cheese, and craisins. He also baked salmon this time with dill on the pieces, which I found fresh and very tasty. He emphasized that baking fish doesn't need to be overdone or longer than the usual 20 minutes or so, or else its unique flavor would be gone. He made sure we had fried shrimp dumplings, too,and he asked me about my preferred sauce to dip them on. I thought I'd like the usual white vinegar with red chili pepper from the gardens of one of his friends out in the West Coast. I recalled we had chocolate ice cream, coffee and cookies for dessert, which we enjoyed much later after our lunch. Needless to say, it's been a grand feast, which is always the case when I have lunch at Roger's place.
As a guest, you instantly get a sense that it is privileged experience you are soon to get into for the next few hours at Roger's place. Your eyes gaze into the view of the flowing East River that separates the island from Manhattan, which brief distance is bridged, among many choices, by the subway and the tram. In the comforts of the apartment, you are being served by someone like Roger who gives and shows prime value to shared home-cooked meals. And I get to know better the kind heart-ed person behind that man who was first introduced to me by a common friend who is based in Los Angeles, California, at least 4 years ago as of this writing. You get a sense of the peaceful lifestyle that Roger leads at his neck of the woods in that part of New York City.
The food he prepared this time deviated from the usual that he would come up in previous occasions that we had lunch. We had his version of fresh green salad mixed with his own dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey, pepper plus garnishing including walnuts, cheese, and craisins. He also baked salmon this time with dill on the pieces, which I found fresh and very tasty. He emphasized that baking fish doesn't need to be overdone or longer than the usual 20 minutes or so, or else its unique flavor would be gone. He made sure we had fried shrimp dumplings, too,and he asked me about my preferred sauce to dip them on. I thought I'd like the usual white vinegar with red chili pepper from the gardens of one of his friends out in the West Coast. I recalled we had chocolate ice cream, coffee and cookies for dessert, which we enjoyed much later after our lunch. Needless to say, it's been a grand feast, which is always the case when I have lunch at Roger's place.
12.31.2010
6.16.2010
5.28.2010
"Flores de Mayo" at the Philippine Consulate, New York
CHECK THIS YEAR'S FLORES DE MAYO SCHEDULE AT THE PHILIPPINE CONSULATE IN NEW YORK IN THIS LINK. Thank you!
Well, I hope this posting works out clearly here, given the changes on Picasa which I was discovering only now as I included pictures I took using my celfone camera. I wanted to share here last-minute pictures I took during this year's Flores de Mayo at the Philippine Consulate in New York, which definitely turned out to be very well attended.
Tonight's attendance's easily double than last year, indicating how people have become more strongly aware and more interested in this annual event being managed by "The Catholic Fellowship of Young Filipino Professionals." It's to the credit of all volunteers who have worked hard to deliver something worthy of sharing here, and being proud of, given usual thoughts about events like this for those who may have seen it all. Other than the expected crowds who are from the Philippine community, there were those who showed up from other communities, whose presence contributed much to make this event more exciting to observe. It's not anymore a small affair, as many might have dismissed it to be (they have surely missed not attending this one!). It's become one of those events that's meant to be attended to every year, and helped with to become bigger each year.
Flores de Mayo is actually one of the biggest community events, a Marian event at that, which happens in the Philippines every May, traditionally, as a definite influence brought about by Hispanic presence for 300 years in an emerging and fast-emerging developing country that people need to know as the farthest post of the Spanish Empire up to late 19th century (but was briefly, for 50 years, part of the USA). In this year's event, the second floor hall witnessed participants in their best representative native attires (not usually worn everyday as "street attire"), and recalls to mind the romance, the accompanying anxiety and drama of the whole event. May is a month in the Philippines where the first rainfall is considered "sanctified" and healing for those who'd decide to take shower as the rainfall happens outside.
The procession in the Consulate Hall's not exactly, as admittedly, the most spectacular, especially if you've witnessed something more grand and festive back in the Philippine archipelago. But what was presented reminded everyone of how it was back in the Mother country. It's always one of those opportunities for the best looking young ladies to don the most fabulous attires and be seen by everyone curious and envious, as they step and do their dainty walk on the streets where they would usually work it out without creating much fuss but showing much grace and elegance amidst all the gawking stares. To be even considered as one of those sagala's (or those invited to join the procession representing a saint or another religious character) is a great honor that signifies you're definitely someone worth looking at by the crowds.
But, we need to remember (and be strongly reminded), that this annual event is in commemoration of the Blessed Virgin Mary's (BVM) very courageous stance to carry Jesus in her womb, as God's incarnation on earth, and subsequently give birth to the Savior. The whole event is very loaded with religious overtones, hoping to make people aware of the significance of the events by the lives of those women who are represented by present day volunteers doing the walk on the streets. Flowers are usually seen abundant, overflowing, and very much seen all through out. In this year's event, this happened again, as the Mass was celebrated, and participated in by most everyone tonight. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Choir sang wonderfully during the mass, heightening its seriousness for everyone.
I remember in my childhood being herded by our fussy elders, mostly women, to the Church to offer flowers to the BVM --- this is part of the same event that happens on May every year. Children, also, have great roles to play during this month. During the mass at the second floor, I noticed how the floor was covered by rose petals. At the start of the event, there was nothing on the statue of the BVM, but towards the end, the statue's bedecked and surrounded by flowers, twigs, branches arranged beautifully.
After the mass, Filipino food was served at the ground floor, where participants/attendees had all the chance to mill around and do networking. Lumpia, San Miguel Beer (also Hong Kong's number 1 beer!)'s Red Horse and Pale Pilsen, Pancit Palabok, Embotido, Litson, Pandesal, Fruit Salad, Empanada, Leche Flan were easily among the food items that I noted, were served, and enjoyed sumptuously by everyone. Cultural notes, and small chats were exchanged and flowed around.
"Here's looking forward to the event next year! May a much grander Flores de Mayo happen in 2012."
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 – (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 fiancée 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 – (1993) A dramatic retelling of the life of Macario Sakay – a 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 Repúblika 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 – (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 fiancée 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 – (1993) A dramatic retelling of the life of Macario Sakay – a 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 Repúblika 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.
12.07.2008
Simbang Gabi sa Katedral 2008 (Dawn Mass at St Patrick's Cathedral, NYC!)
See the RED STAR? [1st and 2nd pictures] That's the insignia used by ushers, in different shades to call the attention of those who have the corresponding color of stars of those attendees so they'd be given guaranteed seats!!! I'm simply dumbfounded at how the hardworking organizers of this year's Dawn Mass at St Patrick decided to come up with a set-up like this. My friend Bob & myself, who managed to get inside St Patrick's before 6:30pm Simbang Gabi mass (Dawn Mass), & got ourselves seated close to the left side facing the altar were asked by a Caucasian looking guy who's a member of the staff of the Cathedral, to go out again, and line up with the others who were waiting outside for the Dawn Mass. I FREAKED OUT, and insisted I have the right to keep my seat. I was just prevailed to change my mind, after a Filipina asked us again to move to some other seats, as most front pews are reserved for other attendees of this Mass.
I fumed really mad, even my friend Philip, (whom I saw later busy with his volunteer work as an usher, before Bob & I moved to another seat) looked helpless. In fairness, he called up earlier inviting me, and reminding me that only those with "stars" would be given guaranteed best seats. Upon seeing me there quite mad, he just said, there would be vacant seats actually, as the Cathedral won't be deluged by Filipino attendees, anyway. Some other Filipinos were also disgusted by this set-up. It's just like being reminded of certain practices back in the Philippines, where certain seats are reserved for the elites, those who are deemed to be powerful, and has connections with influential people!
We're in a mass, & it should be "first come, first served" policy! The least that the SGsK organizers of this "Simbang Gabi" event could have done was just to announce right away on their website, for those who are attending that seats would have to be reserved, at least by groups, or by affiliations! This approach is simply, purely elitist, that smacks of exclusivity! It goes against the very essence of being Christian, as you're admonished to love your neighbors as you love yourself....what if you're seated with someone you don't expect the least to be your seatmate while in Mass...the least that you can do is to accept and respect the person, and not plan to make sure you get seats for yourself for some unknown reason (& just for your comfort)!
I cooled down eventually, went on to take pictures, and proceeded to hear mass. The ushers later distributed sweets in small Christmas bags at the end of the mass. The usher who was in charge of the pews where we found ourselves eventually was apologetic, as she understood the situation. We hugged each other, and let "bygones be bygones."
I also suggest that next time, please refrain from using the "STAR" symbol, for gatherings like this, even though Filipinos usually understand this as symbol of Christmas, among others. However, I've observed from those who are members of Jewish communities, who react to it with silent disdain......apparently, the "star" reminds them of the "Star of David," that can bring horrible memories of the Holocaust.
Other photos, with descriptions, follow:
Most Rev. Antonietto Cabajog, [3rd picture] (more about Bishop Cabajog? pls click this link!) Bishop of Surigao, Philippines, was the principal celebrant of this year's Dawn Mass.
An icon of "Our Lady of Manhattan" [4th picture] stands on the left side, while the Bishop walks up the elevated altar, with back on screen. The photo was taken from the TV sets installed inside St Patrick's.
Deputy Consul General Melita Sta. Maria-Thomeczek [5th picture] (you happen to want to use the website of the Consulate General of the Philippines in New York? pls click this link!) did the First Reading - Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11
Ms Corazon Reyes, [6th picture] a registered nurse, did the Second Reading - 2 Peter 3:8-14
Deacon Clodualdo M Leonida [7th picture] (he's been a deacon since 2005 in New Jersey. pls see this link to a PDF file!) read the Gospel (according to St Mark Chapter 1 verses 1 to 8)
Rev Jaime Noel Deslate, Psy. D., [8th picture] talked of his homily (he's joked about his being a priest from Capiz in the Philippines, being a place disreputably known for stories on "dracula"-like creatures! pls see this PDF file link for more info on him!)
Rev Joseph G. Marabe, JCD, [9th picture] (more about Fr Marabe? pls see this news link!) gave "Words of Thanks."
There was a "SGsK Bible Quiz" introduction before the mass ended, with Ms Elvira Go, [10th picture] Chairperson of Manila Bible Quiz Team, who flew in from Manila, describing all about the quiz.
Ms. Lumen Castaneda, [11th picture] Chairperson, SGsK Bible Quiz, announced the champion family winners, with 3 families winning top prizes!
It's been a successful gathering[12th & 13 pictures]!!! Congratulations to the organizers, supporters, & to those who attended!
Participating Choirs
Our Lady of Solace, Bronx
Ugnayan Filipino choir of St. Francis of Assisi in Manhattan
Our Lady of Angels' Choir, Bronx
Filipino Choirs of St. Francis de Sales, St. Lucy, and St. Cecilia's in Uptown, Manhattan
Divine Mercy Choir of St. Bartholomew's in Elmhurst, Queens
Filipino Choir of Oxon Hill, Maryland
Himig Silangan Choir - Filipino American Association of Western Connecticut (FAAWC)
Laksambayan Filipino Choir, Our Lady of Pompei
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