The Filipino Press: June 9-15, 2023

Marcos wants to deepen PH-Singapore bilateral ties

MANILA -- President Ferdinand

R. Marcos Jr. has emphasized the importance of deepening the Philippines' strong ties with Singapore, especially in the areas of trade and investment, defense and security, education, and cultural exchanges.

Marcos made the remark when he received the credentials of Singaporean Ambassador to the Philippines Constance See Sin Yuan at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Thursday.

He said the Philippines and Singapore share a “deep-rooted history of collaboration and cooperation” in various areas of mutual interest.

“Our bilateral relations have flourished over the past five decades, encompassing trade and investment, defense and security, education, and cultural exchanges,” he told Yuan.

“As we go through this transition period where we have to adjust to the new global economy, we still look at Singapore to be our very strong partner,” he added.

Marcos also recognized the two nations' robust economic ties, noting that Singapore remains "one of the Philippines’ most important trade and investment partners."

"In 2022, our total bilateral trade reached USD13 billion. In addition, Singapore was our largest source of approved investments amounting to USD 2.4 billion in 2022,” he said.

Marcos also emphasized the further strengthening of the Philippines’ engagements with Singapore in combating terrorism

and national crimes. He noted that under his administration, the agreement for the Philippines' participation in

Singapore-led Regional CounterTerrorism Information Facility (CTIF) and the deal on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief have

been signed.

He also cited that the “active" bilateral ties have been further bolstered by the successful state visit

of Singaporean President Halimah Yacob to the Philippines in 2019 for the golden jubilee celebration of the two countries' diplomatic ties.

“Such high-level visits of our government officials attest to our flourishing ties and our high regard for Singapore as a bilateral and regional partner,” Marcos said, also citing his successful visit to Singapore last year.

“Our increasing people-topeople ties continue to strengthen our bridges of understanding and friendship through cultural exchanges and capacity-building programs,” he added.

Yuan agreed that the state visits by the two nations’ leaders were key to strengthening their relations.

“I think the state visit gave a lot of momentum to our cooperation, including in the emerging areas like fintech (financial technology), sustainability and energy as well. So, we're keen to move forward on all these,” she said.

Yuan also shared her plans to explore new areas of bilateral cooperation.

“Our future in this region depends on our response to these opportunities and challenges together. We are confident that under your leadership, the Philippines and Singapore will continue its close cooperation and our bilateral relations will continue

SAN DIEGO, CA -- The Philippine Medical Association of San Diego Inc. inducted its President, Dr. Maria Flora G. Trimor-Tamoria on December 10, 2022 at Naval Island Catering Center, Coronado and completed the rest of induction of its officers on April 20, 2023 at University Club downtown San Diego, Atop Symphony Towers. The event was made possible through the generosity and sponsorship of Dr. Homan Siman, owner, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Primary Care Associates.

Dr. Trimor-Tamoria gave a warm welcome address to everyone and outlined her projects for her term with great enthusiasm. She emphasized on charitable works and enhancement of moral and spiritual values by promoting kindness, compassion, stewardship and accountability. Dr. Renato Dela Rosa supported her welcome address by a slide presentation of

the organization’s initial proposed project, “Live Healthy: Feed the Hungry Program” in Tondo, Manila, providing food to about 600 indigents, the poorest of the poor population in Tondo Manila in cooperation with Dr. Carmelita Uy and Manny Uy.

The occasion was graced by guest speaker, our beloved Honorable Mayor Richard Morrison, known for his proven unrelenting service to the Filipino community, and had been very supportive through the years to them including his previous terms.

This was followed by words of wisdom from Dr. Benjamin Camacho, known philantrophist and long time leader of the organization comprised of Filipino and FilipinoAmerican doctors. Through Dr. Camacho’s leadership efforts for more than a decade, including the leadership of the founding fathers, the organization prides itself in being recognized and acknowledged

in the community as a charitable organization ready to lend a helping hand to underprivileged and underserved population in National City and outlying areas and abroad.

Dr. Camacho was awarded the “lock” of National City by Hon. Mayor Richard Morrison during the event, a great achievement for which the organization is truly proud of.

It was also attended by Dr. Renato Masilungan and Dr. Marianito Sevilla who both had made significant contributions to its progressive growth and development through the years, since the history of its inception.

The following are the current officers:

President: Dr. Maria Flora

G. Trimor-Tamoria

Immediate Past President:

Dr. Gelen Del Rosario

President Elect:

COntriuted By Marissa Banez

How did I get here?

From an early childhood in the 1960s spent in a small house literally built by my grandfather in Baguio City, to the immigrant neighborhoods of downtown Los Angeles, to the idyllic rarefied setting of Princeton University, to the highly-charged environment of a large international law firm as a litigator, and, finally, to being an award-winning children’s author currently developing a children’s musical based on my book in my “golden years”. . . as I reach my 65th year, I laugh, shake my head, give thanks, and repeatedly ask myself, “how did I get here?”

Luck? Divine intervention? Coincidences? Absolutely. One example: After taking five years off from work until my daughter started kindergarten, someone suggested I first try working with a placement office to ease my way back into legal practice. The day after I emailed my resume, I was told that a well-regarded firm was looking for an attorney with my exact qualifications. I later learned that while I was typing my resume, the firm’s hiring partner was about to hire someone who didn’t meet all the criteria. Then, for some reason, he felt compelled to make one last effort to get the right person. On the same day that I submitted my resume, he sent in his request to the placement office. The universe did its thing and eighteen years later, I’m still at the firm.

Hard work? Of course.

I took three separate bar exams (California, New Jersey, and New York) and passed each one the first

time around.

As a litigator, working until 3 or 4 a.m. and being ready only 4 or 5 hours later to start the next day is not unusual, especially when there is a trial.

As a mom of a little girl, I wrote original stories and created puppet shows for my daughter and her friends. Now, I write my stories, work closely with my illustrator, do a lot of book promotional work, and create dialogue and lyrics for the musical. This labor of love often takes me into the wee hours too.

Connections? Definitely.

A former colleague, fellow author, and friend introduced me to our mutual publisher.

My childhood friend’s talented musician husband wrote a beautiful song about my book.

A colleague who also happens to own a stage theater production company spoke about my book to actors and other associates, all of whom are excited about a children’s musical.

Support from family and friends?

Unquestionably.

Without going into details that would fill volumes, I can

categorically say that I am blessed with the best and most supportive family and friends, without whom I couldn’t have accomplished half as much and certainly not with as much fun.

My book, Hope and Fortune, tells of a little girl who has lost her way and encounters 12 multicultural, multiracial, and multigenerational fairies of different shapes and sizes who give her life advice to get her back on her path. Each fairy represents a principle or ideal. The first is the Fortune Fairy of Hope, drawn to look like my late Filipina mother and, by her dress, represents the Filipino culture. Her advice:

“Give yourself permission to cry.

Just know that things will get better as time goes by.” The guidance given by all the fairies constitutes a distillation of principles I have lived by or aspire to live by. I HOPE the book inspires young children and leads them to a path in life filled with good FORTUNE. After all, they are principles that have gotten me here.

Marissa Bañez is Angelica’s mom, a litigator with a large

President

Ferdinand

R.

Marcos reaffirms the country's strong trade, investment, defense, and security ties with Singapore during the presentation of credentials by Ambassador-designate Constance See Sin Yuan today, June 8. In his message, PBBM highlighted the flourishing bilateral relations over the past five decades and recognized the importance of establishing ASEAN centrality in regional and international issues as co-founders of the organization. The Singaporean envoy, in turn, expressed commitment to bolstering cooperation, especially in emerging areas like financial technology, sustainability, and energy. (MNS photo)

Top photo shows Mayor Ron Morrison (6th from left) of National City, who led the induction of the new slate of officers of the Pilipino Medical Association of San Diego (PMASD). The dynamic president Dr. Maria Flora Trimor-Tamoria (in pink Filipiniana dress) gave an inspiring speech and one of key highlights of evening is the presentation of key of National City to former PMASD president Dr. Ben Camacho. For complete listing of the new slate of officers, read

with photo collages

(photos by Zen Ply)

By FRANCINE m AIgu E

This week, the word “privilege” came up in countless conversations. Topics ranged from education to awards, citizenship to public assistance. Privilege. I heard it used and misused so much that I began to wince each time I heard the word.

Rancid were the layers of judgment that worked to tarnish the best intentions of leaders, volunteers, neighbors—folks fueled by compassion and an understanding of “the bigger picture,” people who work much and sleep very little in the pursuit of progress and equity for our community, people keen to the potential of a domino effect of good.

Can privilege be temporary?

Is privilege subjective? If an opportunity is afforded to many, is it still a privilege?

Here’s just one of the heated topics discussed in our community this week…

Criticisms were published that attacked the aims of delegates from a program that immersed young, Filipino American leaders in communities in the Philippines.

The claim: Fil-Ams returning to the Philippines to assist communities in need are reminiscent of colonization.

Whoa… Colonization is a strong word. I’d hardly call the efforts of these Fil-Ams (many dual citizens) works of colonization. Last I time checked, none of these folks were trying to assert political control over their kababayan. When one is sent back to our homeland to help—one helps.

Privilege

So these Fil-Ams are graduates of “top universities.” So these Fil-Ams are hailed by others as “successful.”

So these Fil-Ams are branded with “honors.” So?

Is the opportunity to study at a great university a privilege? Sure… but it took hard work to get there and hard work to graduate. The very goal of these folks was to learn as much as they could, so they could go out and help others in the most effective ways possible. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

Is it a privilege to be seen by others as mentors in your field? Sure…but the very core of mentorship is giving solicited advice. One can’t blame someone for sharing their thoughts, if one asked them what they were thinking.

Is an award a privilege? Sure… but give these folks some credit. If you’ve met them, they are humbled by the opportunities they’ve been given, understand the daunting expectations that come with such accolades, and want to give back as their thank you. The community’s proud of them and wants to celebrate their achievements. We should all want that for our fellow Filipinos! I worry more about the folks that ask, “Why not ME?”

…and maybe that’s the next stage in these conversations… Do people really mean “opportunity” when they mean “privilege”--one certainly connotes a greater sense of entitlement than the other. There are certainly many

opportunities out there to make the best for and of one’s self and one’s community here, abroad…online.

This week The National Federation of Filipino American Associations hosts its conference, right here in San Diego. (Come join us at Town & Country in Mission Valley!) I welcome our passionate, innovative leaders, activists, and volunteers from across the US to our hometown. I look forward to the many juicy discussions that are sure to arise in halls and hallways this weekend. It will be a privilege, an opportunity, a blessing to engage in these conversations, as we work to develop the necessary changes that empower ALL members of our community to achieve.

Cheers to rising on and on and on,

*Francine Maigue

“The Pampered Pinay”

Check back every week for ways to pamper yourself and those you love. Why? The answer is simple: YOU DESERVE IT!

Do you want to send a love note at The Filipino Press ? Email us at filpressads@aol.com We love to hear from you our dear readers!

Ople hails OFWs as PH celebrates National Migrant Workers Day

MANILA -- For their immense sacrifices to support their families and in helping the economy, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Susan Ople said a week-long activity has been prepared for the country’s overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families.

In celebration of the 28th National Migrants Week on Wednesday, Ople honored and recognized the OFWs for bringing pride to the nation.

In her video message posted on Facebook, Ople assured that the DMW will serve as the OFWs' home and ally in the government.

“Lagi kayong binibilin ng ating pangulo, si President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. at sabi nga niya alagaan kayong mabuti at huwag kami magkulang sa pagtatanggol ng inyong karapatan (Our President, President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. always reminds us to take good care of you and not fail in defending your rights),” Ople said.

“Makakaasa kayo na ang inyong tahanan sa gobyerno ay nandito palagi, 24/7 para kayo’y paglingkuran at ang inyong mga pangarap ay matupad dito man sa Pilipinas o saan mang panig ng mundo (You can count your home in the government that we will always be here, 24/7 to serve you and make your dreams come true whether it's here in the Philippines or anywhere in the world),” she added.

On Monday, Ople opened the week-long celebration with a bazaar and a photo exhibit contest featuring the Filipino seafarers, ahead of the International Seafarers Day slated on June 25.

The exhibit aims to recognize the contribution and sacrifices of Filipino seafarers, whose skills, ability, and charm showing their Filipino hospitality while performing their daily work aboard their vessels is known worldwide.

On Tuesday, the DMW held a send-off ceremony for Korea-bound workers at the DMW lobby.

On Wednesday, several agreements were signed by the DMW together with other concerned government agencies such as the Deaprtment of Trade and Industry and other stakeholders from the private sector for the impelemtation of a full-cycle reintegration programs for the OFWs.

Capacity-building trainings were also held for the OFWs as well as their families.

On Thursday, The DMW is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and BDO Foundation on “Pinansiyal na Talino at Kakayahan” (PiTaKa) project.

On Friday, the new DMW rules and regulations governing recruitment and employment of land-based overseas workers will be launched.

On June 12, Independence Day, an overseas jobs fair will be held at the DMW office building lobby, and on June 13, the DMW will sign another agreement with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) for the socialized housing project for eligible OFWs and their families.

Interested applicants for the job fair are encouraged to bring several copies of their resume, a photocopy of their passport, and to bring their own pen.

They are also encouraged to wear their face mask inside the building.

Meanwhile, aside from the OFWs, Ople also thanked the DMW

employees and staff who tirelessly serve the migrant workers.

"Nakikita na nating nabubuo ang tahanan ng OFWs, kayo ang haligi niyan hindi lang ako kundi bawat isa sa inyo, kaya pagbutihin pa natin alang-alang sa kanila, magserbisyo tayo ng may integridad (We can already see the home of OFWs being built, you are the pillar of that, not only me but each of you, so let's do our best for them, let's serve with integrity),” Ople said.

Every June 7, the Philippines marks "National Migrant Workers' Day" to celebrate the signing of Republic Act No. 8042 or the Migrant Workers' Act of 1995.

DMW prepares full cycle of reintegration services for OFWs

To help empower more overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) signed on Wednesday an agreement on business training and mentorship program.

Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople, during the celebration of the 28th National Migrant Workers’ Day at the DMW office in Mandaluyong City, said a lot of OFWs aspire to return to the country to be with their families, thus, the Department has put together a full cycle of reintegration services for the workers.

"Our OFWs contribute to our economy through their dollar remittances but at some point in their lives, they would also need to come home and create sustainable sources of income through entrepreneurship, sound investments, or by landing a better job here at home,” she said.

She said this is the reason for the tie-up with DTI, citing that “our OFW-entrepreneurs and/or their families would be able to access business training and mentorship programs that would enable them to stay together while also providing jobs to others.”

Assistance assured Through the program, interested OFW’s will be given assistance on business registration process up to the marketing stage by linking them with large companies and government agencies.

Moreover, OFWs as well as their families will be given business training and undergo development programs. They will also be provided with financial literacy training courses in partnership with DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

For better market access, Ople said the OFWs’ products and services will also be included in various DTI fairs here and abroad for increased promotion.

OFWs or members of their families who will be able to complete the registration of their businesses and finish the entrepreneurship training will be awarded certificates, which can be used to access livelihood or financial assistance from DMW.

Relatively, DMW also signed agreements with other government agencies such as the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and several private sector players to further uplift the welfare of OFWs.

Ople said the agreement with DTI and seven other major reintegration partners is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to help transform an OFW's journey into "inspirational stories for all time."

"We want them to come back with excitement in their hearts on what the future holds for them and their families, through meaningful partnerships across the government bureaucracy and with NGOs and private companies serving as their mentors and cheerleaders," she added.

The country celebrates National Migrant Workers’ Day every June 7 to celebrate the signing of Republic Act No. 8042 or the Migrant Workers' Act of 1995.

Gov't committed to ensuring safety, welfare of OFWs -- PBBM

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday assured the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) of his administration's strong commitment to uphold their safety and welfare.

Marcos made the assurance as he joined the entire nation in observing National Migrant Workers Day.

In a video message uploaded on his official Facebook page, the President said the Philippine government is keeping its "stronger" ties with the host countries to make sure that the OFWs would be accorded a safe working environment.

"We understand the challenges that you face being far from your loved ones, adjusting to new cultures, and overcoming barrier. And that’s why this administration will continue to foster stronger ties with countries that host our migrant workers, ensuring safety, welfare, and wellbeing," he said.

"As you build your dreams in far-off lands and seas, do know that you are not alone. The entire nation stands with you every step of the way and all of us are united in pride and in admiration for the work that gives you meaning and purpose."

Marcos hailed the OFWs as "modern-day heroes" who have made significant contributions to both the Philippines and the host countries.

Their sacrifices and hard work, he said, have "nurtured dreams, elevated livelihoods, and fueled the engine of progress in our beloved Philippines."

"Today, I speak before you with a heart full of gratitude and appreciation because today, we celebrate Migrant Workers Day. We honor our modernday heroes, our overseas Filipino workers. In every corner of the globe, you have left an indelible mark that uplifted both your host countries and our nation in the process," Marcos said.

"Your contributions have enriched the lives of countless individuals and societies through your different professions and capacities. Despite the miles that separate us, your heart and soul remain firmly rooted in our homeland. And your unwavering love for our nations shines bright."

He also told the OFWs that their efforts are being appreciated.

"As you commemorate this day, may your dreams be fulfilled, your families blessed, and your hearts filled with the knowledge that you are cherished and valued," he said.

As of 2021, there are about 1.83 million OFWs worldwide, according to the data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority in December last year.

Migrant Workers Day is celebrated every June 7 in commemoration of the signing into law of Republic Act 8042 or the Migrant Workers Act of 1995.

The law mandates the celebration of Migrant Workers Day in recognition of the valuable contributions of OFWs to the country. (MNS)

MANILA -- The government is doing its best to improve the business climate in the Philippines, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured a group of Filipino-Chinese business leaders on Wednesday.

During the oath-taking of the new set of officers of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), Marcos said his administration has already taken the necessary steps to address the issues on ease of doing business in the country.

"Cognizant of the concerns of the sector, we will continue to listen and exert efforts to improve business climate and foster ease and efficiency of doing business," Marcos said in a speech delivered during the oathtaking ceremony at Malacañan Palace in Manila.

"We have taken note of the issues that you have raised during our meeting last year and we have initiated many steps and adjustments to address those challenges," he added.

Marcos said the government is implementing strategic initiatives that would benefit the business sector, including the digitalization efforts and the improvement of tax administration and fiscal incentives system.

In October 2022, Marcos met with the FFCCCII to discuss goals and plans to usher the Philippine economy into the new normal.

Marcos said his administration would continue to preserve and strengthen its "reliable" and "mutually beneficial" partnership with the FFCCCII.

"We look forward to further deepening and strengthening that relationship through continuing dialogue and amicable approaches," he said.

Marcos said the FFCCCII is one of the "most important and trusted" partners of the government, acknowledging the federation's "highimpact" social civic projects in the country.

He expressed optimism that strengthened partnership for the economic revitalization would yield "greater benefits for businesses, our citizens and our country."

"Rest assured that this administration will continue to support this healthy relationship. It is not only a healthy relationship, it is one that we consider to be a necessary partnership, and I think it has been made clear that the policy of this administration is to have the critical partners in the transformation of our economy," Marcos said.

"May this partnership between the Philippine government and the Federation live on for decades to come. Let it remain to be the government’s dependable ally in the pursuit of our aspirations for a prosperous, inclusive and resilient society, and a more comfortable, secure life for us all," he added.

Marcos also urged the newly elected FFCCCII officers to sustain the federation's legacy.

"With your unquestionable and proven dedication, wisdom and professionalism, I am certain that we will have positive influencers and prime movers in our communities to ably guide or economy to greater heights," he said. (MNS)

partners in trade, security

Look for “non-traditional” partners in the areas of trade and security and defense, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday told the recently-appointed Filipino ambassadors.

Marcos made the call in a meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila, stressing the need for the Philippines to cope with the changing times, given the current global situation amid the “pandemic economy.”

“After all the changes that have been imposed upon us, like the pandemic economy and the world situation, looking for what we sometimes referred to as nontraditional partners in trades, in any kind, in security and defense issues,” he said.

“All these things, we are always looking for partners,” Marcos added.

The Chief Executive reiterated that his foreign policy makes the Philippines neutral and independent.

“We do not subscribe to any notion of a bipolar world. We only side, of course, to the Philippines, not to the US, not to Beijing, not to Moscow. That’s very much being independent in what we do,” he said.

Marcos also told the diplomats that they could discuss with him opportunities that could help improve the priority sectors. He said he would listen to “promising” ideas for the realization of digital transformation and the development of agriculture, energy and infrastructure.

“Now, if there are opportunities that would come up, you should explore them and if they're promising enough, then we’ll take it up. We’ll try to see if something can come up. There’s no harm in trying and kung anuman ang mangyari (whatever may happen), at least we tried,” Marcos said.

“So let us keep looking at those areas. And also what I found many times, you go there and you talk about agri and something else comes up,” he added.

Present during the meeting were Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the United Nations Carlos Sorreta and Ambassadors Henry Bensurto Jr. (Turkey), Renato Pedro Villa (Saudi Arabia), Raul Hernandez (Oman), Paul Raymund Cortez (Portugal), Josel Ignacio (India) and Maria Angela Ponce (Malaysia).

The ambassadors secured the Commission on Appointments’ nod on May 31.

New appointment

Meantime, Marcos designated Brig. Gen. Freddie dela Cruz as the commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Special Operations Command (AFPSOCOM).

Dela Cruz’s appointment was announced by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) in a Facebook post.

AFPSOCOM functions as the AFP’s unified special operations command and is tasked to plan, conduct and support the special operations of the armed forces.

AFPSOCOM takes command and supervision of the Special Operations Wing of the Air Force, the Naval Special Operations Group from the Navy; the Army's Scout Ranger Regiment, the Army's Special Forces Regiment and Light Reaction Regiment; and the Joint Special

Operations Group of the AFP General Headquarters.

World Bank lifts PH economic growth projection to 6%

The World Bank on Wednesday revised upward its Philippine economic growth projection to 6 percent this year from 5.6 percent as strong domestic demand is expected to drive growth.

"Despite weak global conditions, we expect strong domestic demand to grow to 6 percent in 2023 and move to its growth potential over the medium term," World Bank senior economist Ralph Van Doorn said in a briefing for the Philippines Economic Update (PEU) report.

The World Bank's latest forecast falls within the government's 6 to 7 percent economic growth target for the year.

For 2024 and 2025, World Bank expects the Philippine economy to grow by 5.9 percent.

The report said the strong domestic demand this year is underpinned by consumer spending, drawing strength from the continuing jobs recovery and the steady flow of remittances.

Other drivers of growth include fixed capital investment as a result of upbeat domestic activity and improved business confidence.

The services sector is also expected to support growth while the recovery of international tourism will boost the expansion of transportation services, accommodation, and food services.

Aside from these, the amendments to the Public Service Act, Foreign Investment Act, and Retail Trade Liberalization law are expected to encourage private investment and strengthen growth in the country over the medium term.

However, World Bank country director for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand Ndiame Diop pointed out that persistent global and domestic risks could hinder recovery and poverty reduction.

“It is essential to sustain improvements in social protection to help families, especially the poor and vulnerable, cope with economic difficulties as the country navigates the global slowdown, budget constraints, high prices of basic commodities, and climate-related risks,” he said.

Diop said ensuring efficient delivery of social protection programs will require speeding up current government reforms, including the adoption of the national identification (ID) system for social protection delivery, updating the targeting system for identifying poor and vulnerable families, innovations in digital payment systems and strengthening financing mechanisms and readiness for disaster response.

Global risks to the country’s economic outlook, meanwhile, include the possibility of rising global inflation, higher global interest rates, and an escalation of geopolitical tensions brought about by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which could further cause a sharper-than-expected global slowdown that could hamper Philippine exports.

On the domestic front, World Bank said high inflation remains a risk to the economic outlook due to several factors including natural disasters affecting food supply, the threat of El Niño that could further constrain

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY. Workers load construction plastic rolls onto a heavy equipment vehicle at a reclamation area in Manila Bay, Pasay City on Monday (June 5, 2023). As the world observes Environment Day, advocates remind that among the potential impacts of land reclamation is the disruption of ecosystems and loss of biodiversity. (MNS photo)

RAINY WEDNESDAY. Armed with umbrella, students of Quezon City High School on Scout Ybardolaza Street brave the rain on Wednesday (June 7, 2023) as they leave the school. Tropical storm Chedeng is enhancing the southwest monsoon (habagat) that brings rain showers in some parts of the country, according to the weather bureau. (MNS photo)

MUSIC, RACE, AND IMPERIALISM: HOW FILIPINO MUSICIANS, BLACK SOLDIERS AND MILITARY BAND MELODY MADE HISTORY DURING U.S. COLONIZATION OF THE PHILIPPINES

SAN DIEGO, CA -- This past weekend, my one and only granddaughter Taylor excitedly informed me that she and her mom (my daughter-in-law Abigail), her Auntie Barbie and her first cousin Catherine watched the concert of a famous Korean (K-Pop) band. Since I mostly listen to music from the 60’s, the bands and singers of the current generation are all new and foreign to me. My eyebrows jumped off my face when I saw in the internet the average price for economy rate seats for a K-Pop band’s concert -$150 and above! Concert prices sure have come a long way since I was a youngster back in my beloved historical hometown of Sta. Ana in old Manila in the 1950s and 1960s.

Incidentally, in the past 50 years, I have seen Filipino singers and bands struggle to seek access to the international music industry. To be sure, some of the Filipino musical artists have found magnificent success outside of our beloved old homeland – the Philippines.

Filipino pop singer, songwriter, actress, comedian and television presenter Pilita Corrales and dubbed “Asia’s Queen of Songs” and was widely known for her rendition of “Kapantay ay Langit” which eventually became her signature song was the first female to top the Australian pop music charts in the late 1950’s.

The ReyCard Duet (Rey Ramirez and Carding Cruz) found success performing a musical and comedy show in Las Vegas, Nevada during the late 1960’s.

Folk-singer Freddie Aguilar’s very own composition entitled “Anak” (Filipino for child or more gender specific my son or my daughter) hit the number 1 spot in Japan’s music charts. The song also became popular in Malaysia, Hong Kong and parts of Western Europe and was translated into 30 languages.

Multiple award-winning actress and singer Lea Salonga became world famous when she was selected for the lead role in the stage musical “Miss Saigon.”

Filipino singer and television personality Charice Pempengco now known as Jake Zyrus stunned the American musical audience when she performed in the top-rated Ellen De Generes and Oprah TV shows.

All these Filipino artists broke through the music industries outside our old country because they had a God given talent. But before Charice, Lea Salonga, Reycards and Pilita Corrales, there was a Filipino band that became well known in the United States at the start of the 20th century period.

This particular “Filipino

Potpourri” edition is their story and also the tale of a courageous African American U.S. Army officer by the name of Walter Howard Loving.

FYI: Walter Howard Loving was brought about to former AfricanAmerican slaves in Lovington, Virginia in December of 1872. Two years after Walter was born, his mother passed away. The Loving family which consisted of the father, three boys, two teenage girls (one of whom was married and has a son) had to crowd in a small house.

In 1891, Walter moved to Washington, D.C. - and showed his musical talent by playing the cornet and directing the second Baptist church choir. In June 1893, he enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned to the 24th Infantry Regiment because he indicated his occupation as musician. Back then, African Americans who sign up for the U.S. Army were kept to one of the four segregated units: 9th and 10th Cavalry regiments and 24th and 25th Infantry regiments.

Private Loving was stationed in Fort Bayard, New Mexico in July 1893 and was transferred to the band in January 1894. Military bands were then an indispensable part of every regiment because they play in parades and unit dances.

In 1898 at the Treaty of Paris, the country of Spain sold the Philippines to the United States for $20 million. When the Americans took possession of the archipelago, it also brought itself a conflict with Filipino revolutionaries who were fighting for their independence as a nation. The Filipino-American War would cost the U.S. some $600 million.

There were about 28,000 American soldiers stationed in the Philippines and to augment this number, additional U.S. troops were shipped to the new colony.

Loving was assigned as a chief musician in the 48th U.S. Volunteer Infantry, which is one of the AfricanAmerican regiment that was sent to the Philippines. The other colored regiment was the 49th Volunteer Infantry. In January 1900, the 48th Infantry arrived in Manila. A local newspaper, the “Manila Times,” printed an announcement saying that 200 trained singers would be performing at the Luneta (now Rizal Park) public park accompanied by the 48th regimental band. When the African-American troops were deployed at different defensive lines around Manila to repel attacks from Filipino insurgents, Loving and his musicians tried their best to boast morale. On March 1900, the 48th regiment was moved to the city of San Fernando, La Union. The Americans found the place quite

inhospitable with its mountainous terrain, thick overgrowth and very few roads. But in spite of these hurdles, troops of the 48th were able to operate well in the area which impressed Col. William Duvall, who was the 48th Volunteer Infantry commanding officer.

In February 1901, the U.S. Congress authorized the enlistment of 12,000 Filipinos for military service. This resulted in the formation of the famed “Philippine Scouts” which were armed with .45 caliber Springfield carbines. Hoping to serve as a lieutenant in the Philippine Scouts, Loving sought the help of influential people that he knew in the Army to get an officer’s commission in the Philippines.

In May 1901, the 48th regiment came back to America for redeployment to reduce the U.S. Army’s strength in the islands by 40 percent. Shortly after its homecoming, members of the 48th returned to their former civilian life. Fortuitously, Loving was not the only African-American who wanted to go back to the old country. A number of veterans from the 48th and 49th volunteer infantry regiments elected to remain in the islands and settled down with their Filipina girl friends or wives.

These men did not have the desire to return to the U.S. because of

Jesse T. Reyes Filipino Potpourri

whiles the” Pacific Coast Musical Review,” opined that “the Philippine Constabulary Band is in a class by itself.”

In 1916, Loving requested a medical retirement from the Constabulary. He later moved to Oakland, California and retired as a major. A short time later, he married Edith McCary, a daughter of an army paymaster’s clerk whom he had met ten years earlier in Manila. A year later, they had their first son, Walter Jr.

In September 1917, shortly after the U.S. declared war with Germany, Loving worked as a civilian for the Military Intelligence (MI). After his MI service ended in August 1919, Loving and his wife moved back to Manila and began directing the Philippine Constabulary Band once more.

America’s animosities towards the colored race.

In 1902, Loving returned to the Philippines and worked as a sub-inspector in the Philippine Constabulary. At the request of William Howard Taft, first Philippine governor-general, Loving started work in organizing a Constabulary band. He was promoted to second lieutenant by the end of 1902 then to first lieutenant in August 1903.

During his tenure in the Philippines, Lt. Loving became fluent in Spanish and Tagalog dialect which became helpful in searching for topnotch Filipino musicians. One of the instrumentalists that Lt. Loving recruited was Pedro B. Navarro who was able to play every wind contrivance in the band. Navarro eventually succeeded Loving as the band’s director. Incidentally, the residents of Manila always enjoyed the Philippine Constabulary Band’s two-hour evening concerts at Luneta Park.

The ensemble’s first international break came when they performed at the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis, where it was awarded First Prize in competition against other leading military bands.

The U.S. military periodical “Army and Navy Life” described the orchestra as “one of the finest of all military bands in the world”

Loving was commissioned by then President Manuel Quezon at the rank of lieutenant-colonel in the Philippine Commonwealth Army and also made “Special Advisor to the President of the Philippines.”

He retired in 1940 but continued to live in Manila.

Walter and Edith Loving were detained in 1941 by Japanese forces following the surrender of Manila. During his captivity, Loving composed a resistance song “Beloved Philippines.” He was released due to his declining health and advancing age in 1943. In 1945, during the Battle of Manila, Loving was again arrested and held up, along with other Americans and Filipinos, at the Manila Hotel.

The exact circumstances surrounding Loving’s death are unclear. According to one account – with Manila’s defenses on the verge of collapse to the advancing American forces and Filipino guerrillas, the hotel prisoners were ordered to sprint to the beach while the Japanese soldiers shot at them. The then 72-year-old Loving refused to run, declaring “I am an American. If I must die, I’ll die like an American,” whereupon he was beheaded. Meanwhile, in a 2010 article, a Filipino newspaper columnist contends, however, the Manila Hotel prisoners attempted

escape and Loving used his body to barricade a staircase to prevent Japanese soldiers from pursuit; he was bayoneted to death in the process. A third report relayed in a 1945 Associated Negro Press story says that Loving was shot in the back by retreating Japanese troops. Mortally wounded, he crawled from the Manila Hotel to the battered bandstand at Luneta Park, the site of many of the Philippine Constabulary Band’s performances, and died. In 1952, Loving was posthumously awarded the Presidential Merit Medal by the Government of the Philippines during a ceremony at Luneta during which his final composition, “Beloved Philippines,” was performed. Loving was also the recipient of the Distinguished Conduct Star, the second-highest military honor of the Philippines, and the United States’ Philippine Campaign Medal, the latter given for his service during the FilipinoAmerican War.

By all means, military bands, like national anthems, are part of the complex of symbols through which a state projects its nationhood. However, this metaphor is particularly compounded when viewed from the colonial setting where military ensembles served to exhibit the authority of imperial rule and to project an image of empire. But despite their best efforts, American imperialism did not always succeed in binding colonial subjects to their proper place – individual agency and acts of resistance can never be fully contained.

At the turn of the twentieth century, the United States extended its empire into the Philippines while subjugating Black Americans in the Jim Crow South. And yet, one of the most popular musical acts was a band of “little brown men,” Filipino musicians led by an African American conductor playing European and American music.

The Philippine Constabulary (PC) Band was the principal military unit of the Philippine Constabulary and later, as the Philippine Army Orchestra, of the Army of the

Independence Day 2023 Series: National Identity and Modern Nationalism, Part 3

Philippine military and naval bases. Former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., had it shortened to 50 years up to 1991.

Looking back at the fractured history of the Philippines since the landing of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, one question comes to mind. Why was the bravery, quest for national identify, nationalism, and patriotism of the Filipino revolutionaries during the Spanish occupation did not transfer to the present crops of Filipino leaders? And if it did, why they went to the “wrong” crowd (rebels)?

From the time General Emilio Aguinaldo and company frontally confronted the Americans in the battlefield in 1899, only the HUKBALAHAP (or Huks) carried the fight against the invaders (Japan, then the United States) who trampled Philippine shores. “Independence or death!” was General Antonio Luna’s battle cry against the Americans, but his bravery has been long forgotten because he had the ignominious fate like Andres Bonifacio who was felled by a Filipino assassin’s machete (bolo) loyal to Gen. Aguinaldo.

The answer to the profound questions posed earlier lies in the strategy that the Americans employed to effect wholesale

behavior modification for Filipinos beginning with the arrival of the Thomasites in 1904. It was a human experiment that robbed Filipinos of their true identity by transforming them methodically into the image of Uncle Sam. Through progressive intervention, Filipinos were introduced to American history at the expense of their own. Language (English rather Filipino) became part of the strategy to affect the desired changes the Americans wanted to accomplish. This overarching strategy included interventions in other areas like defense, that because the government was militarily ill-equipped after both wars it was involved in, Filipinos needed America’s protection from external security threats.

In 1934, the Tydings-McDuffie Act allowed the United States to basically do what they want to do with the Philippines “with the consent of the Filipino people” courtesy of then President Manuel Roxas who became America’s surrogate president. The Military Bases Agreement that Roxas pushed for was passed in Congress in 1947 for a 99-year lease on a number of

This is a confounding condition that many Filipinos will perhaps not understand because of what we have become - Westernized. Perhaps an example will do. Supposing a two-month-old daughter of a White American couple was kidnapped by Muslims and raised as a Muslim, brainwashed that the girl grew up to be a Jihadist with lots of antiAmerican bent. How would the American couple take it, much less the American public? Mad as hell, I’ll say.

For Filipinos, however, it is one of gratitude towards the Americans. There was clearly a shift of the Filipino mind from Spanish to American influence. From a few months old democracy, Philippines was taken over by the Americans and slowly transformed into what it is now – a culture, mind and body subservient to the former master.

The remnants of colonialism, colonial mentality if one will call it that, is so pervasive that the ideals that Bonifacio and Gen. Luna espoused had become anathema to American (or Filipino) thinking as personified by how Filipinos view today’s insurgencies. So, how can we explain this other than that to say that the Philippine project was a very successful experiment? Recent

surveys of Filipino’s perception of China and the United States indicates that majority of Filipinos will prefer the latter, including accommodating what the Americans want to reinforce such belief.

Let’s pause for a minute and listen to a couple of 17th century thinkers – Rene Descartes and John Locke, explain the nuances of epistemology – of consciousness and knowledge transfer. French philosopher Rene Descartes proposed that because we think, is evidence of the presence of mind distinct from the body. This notion came to be known as the Cartesian Theory of man’s dualism. Consciousness, according to Descartes, is irrefutable because it is observed from within and not from what you actually see.

The problem with this is that do we believe what we actually see or what we think it is we are seeing. That even if what is in front of us is illusory (American benevolence assimilation, for example), our hatred towards 300 years of subjugation from the Spaniards can color our thinking, that our mind tells us that President William McKinley’s “benevolent assimilation” is acceptable and that America’s promise of independence, armed forces modernization no matter how delayed or protracted (illusory) was the real deal – the perceived reality.

British philosopher John Locke

disagreed with the Cartesian concept of mind and body dualism. Locke introduced us to the concept of personal identity and survival of consciousness after death. Locke believed that consciousness can be transferred from one soul to another, and that personal identity goes with consciousness. This is heavy stuff because it goes against what St. Augustine preached that man is originally sinful, and Descartes’ position that man knows basic logical propositions.

Locke believes that everyone is born with an empty mind and with time, is shaped by experience, sensations and reflections. Therefore, consciousness is related to personal identity but not in the brain, as Descartes and Augustine argued about life, death and immortality. Brain can change but consciousness (or memory) remains the same. In essence, what Locke was saying was that in the Last Judgement, in order for a person to exist after death, that there has to be a person after death who is the same person as the person who died.

Perhaps an example would illuminate. When a person dies, the body rots, and the soul loses its substance (departs), but consciousness (or memory of who that person was) remains intact.

When a person loses consciousness as in insanity, dementia or utter forgetfulness, the soul (or thinking

substance) and body remains the same but is a different person. The body and mind might have committed the crime, but it was not the same person who did it – the insane one did it.

Ergo, Locke posited that neither the soul or thinking substance is necessary or adequate for personal identity overtime. Personal identity for him is psychological continuity. We are all familiar with the rock group Journey (that Arnel Pineda is now part of). When we hear the songs, we associate them with the group’s identity – “Journey,” although they are no longer the same original rock. The band’s identity transferred to other minds (generation) despite the fact that bandmembers have physically changed.

So, what has this got to do with national identity and nationalism? What Locke was saying was that the memory of our revolutionaries should have transferred in substance to the next generation. In other words, Filipinos should have continued to resist the Americans despite their superiority in many things. What Locke and others failed to take into account, however, was a guy named Julius Caesar who would later come along and employ what is now popularly used by governments and entities with sinister agenda, albeit imperial in nature, to lead people or a group – “divide and conquer.” (To be continued)

Walter Howard Loving (17 December 1872- February/March 1945)

The Philippine Constabulary Band circa 1904

Business Directory

Continued from page 4

food production, logistics and supply chain challenges, and pressure from domestic demand.

It also expects headline inflation to settle at 5.7 percent this year, 3.6 percent in 2024, and 3 percent in 2025.

To address inflation, Doorn said reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, enhancing domestic supplies and bolstering agriculture with extension services, seeds, and fertilizers are needed.

“In the face of escalating prices, a comprehensive strategy is needed to guarantee sufficient food for everyone. This entails a more productive agriculture and food system that is resilient to climate risks, serves all consumers, and competes effectively on both local and global markets,” he said. The World Bank also cited the need to sustain investments in climate change initiatives, particularly in the agriculture sector.

These include measures such as extending water-saving drip irrigation systems to rainfed areas, bolstering the resilience and productivity of agricultural lands, and enhancing water storage capacity for a consistent supply during prolonged dry periods.

Over the long-term, the World Bank calls for a transition towards cleaner energy to further the country's climate change mitigation efforts.

It said the shift towards clean energy would not only decrease dependence on imported fossil fuels but also enhance energy security through increased use of indigenous and renewable energy sources.

PBBM calls for LGUs' support for socioeconomic, legislative plans

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday called on the local government officials to support his administration’s socioeconomic agenda and legislative priorities.

Marcos made the call during the oath-taking of the new set of national officers of the Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines (VMLP).

“So, I take this opportunity to rally your support behind our socioeconomic plan and the administration’s legislative priorities. To this day, our vice mayors are important instruments in our bureaucracy and in our delivery of services to the public,” he said in a speech delivered before the vice

mayors. “It is now upon us to solidify the groundwork upon which this transformation is based, and to make sure that it gains traction, especially at the local level,” he added.

Marcos stressed the importance to ensure the full implementation of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, an economic recovery roadmap which outlines the strategies to attain economic and social transformation for a "prosperous, inclusive and resilient society."

On Jan. 27, Marcos signed Executive Order 14, approving the PDP 2023-2028 which is anchored on the eight-point socioeconomic agenda aimed at reinvigorating job creation and accelerating poverty reduction while addressing the issues brought by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Marcos said critical programs and projects for the Filipino people should be “felt in their localities, in a sufficient and timely manner.”

He said collaborative effort is key to achieving the national government’s goals.

“Of course, LGUs (local government units) are not alone in this exercise. Through strategic capacitybuilding efforts and partnerships with the national government and the private sector, these can be accomplished even in the short-term, well within our terms of office,” Marcos said.

"So, that is… how we see the relationship between the national government and the local governments, especially the local legislatures which you all shared,” he added.

Marcos also reassured the LGUs that his administration will continue to recognize and advocate for their autonomy as they serve their localities.

He said the LGUs will get his full support for "effective and meaningful" local autonomy.

This, as Marcos also acknowledged that fulfilling legislative priorities may pose a challenge to LGUs, especially in streamlining and digitalizing their operations.

“As I have consistently advocated, LGUs can be assured of this government’s support for effective and meaningful local autonomy,” he said, adding it could be achieved through optimal devolution of functions and services. (MNS)

PBBM

Help Wanted / For Rent / For Sale

Commonwealth of the Philippines. Between its establishment in 1901 and dissolution during World War II, it registered a reputation for musical excellence both in the Philippines and the United States, and is credited with being the first band other than the United States Marine Band to provide the musical escort to the president of the United States during an American presidential inauguration.

The Philippine Constabulary and Lt. Walter H. Loving entertained thousands in concert halls and world’s fairs, and as I’ve stated earlier above held a place of honor in William Howard Taft’s presidential parade and garnered praise by bandmaster John Philip Sousa – all the while facing beliefs and policies that Filipinos and African Americans were “uncivilized.”

When the Philippine Constabulary Band arrived in St. Louis, Missouri to perform in the World’s Fair - it was indeed their very first performance in foreign soil – and in America no less.

And in an era when most Westerners perceive Filipinos as “savages” who couldn’t even play the flute, the pressure was on this band to impress everyone.

Consequently, during one of their evening concerts at the fair, the band anxiously stepped into the stage to give the performance of a lifetime and the handsome African-American officer who founded the band years earlier, served as their conductor.

As they began playing one of the more famous symphonic pieces – Gioachino Rossini’s “William

Tell Overture” – the audience was immediately captivated.

Note after note, the Filipino band delighted its listeners with an unforgettable music. Soothing melody filled the concert hall, leaving the concertgoers pleasantly surprised that the “dog-eating, headhunting Filipinos” actually had the potential to become world-class musicians.

Then, the unexpected happened; in what others suspected as an act of sabotage, the power went out in the middle of their performance.

The assembly was on the edge of their seats. The band, meanwhile, continued playing their instruments, barely seeing the white handkerchief that Loving tied to his baton in a desperate attempt to save the show.

What others thought would lead to their defeat propel them instead towards victory?

The Filipino band never missed a beat despite the darkness. Their persistence not only earned them two awards during the fair (second prize for the ensemble and a bronze medal for Pedro Navarro, the piccolo player) but also put the legendary band in the annals of music history.

As the Philippine insurrection reared its ugly head in the early days of the Filipino American War, the need for more US soldiers became inevitable.

But the anti-imperialists wouldn’t back down. They did everything they could to prevent the continuous outflow pf Americans to the bloodbath happening in the old country.

It was then that the U.S. Army came up with a better, more feasible idea. They started recruiting Filipinos who were willing to fight against their fellow countrymen,

whom Americans branded as “bandits” or “insurgents.” Soon, the Philippine Scouts was established in 1899, followed by the Constabulary two years later.

The Philippine Constabulary served as the civil government’s police force. Headed by an American officer named Capt. Henry T. Allen, the group’s role was to maintain “public order beyond the capabilities or jurisdiction of the often inefficient native municipal police.” From her book “Instruments of Empire: Filipino Musicians, Black Soldiers, and Military Band Music during U.S. Colonization of the Philippines” author, scholar and ethnomusicologist Mary Talusan draws on hundreds of newspaper accounts and exclusive interviews with band members and their descendants to compose the story from the band’s own voices. She sounds out the meanings of Americans’ responses to the band and identifies a desire to mitigate racial and cultural anxieties during an era of overseas expansion and increasing immigration of nonwhites, and the growing “threat” of ragtime (a musical style that had its peak from the 1890s to 1910s) with its roots in Black culture.

The spectacle of the band, its performance and promotion, emphasized a racial stereotype of Filipinos as “natural musicians” and the beneficiaries of U.S. benevolent assimilation and colonial tutelage. Unable to fit Loving’s leadership of the band into this narrative, newspapers dodged and erased his identity as a Black American officer.

The untold story of the Philippine Constabulary Band offers a unique opportunity to examine the limits and porousness of America’s racial

ideologies, exploring musical pleasure at the intersection of EuroAmerican cultural hegemony, racialization and U.S. colonization of the Philippines.

Notably, in the early 20th century, music was explicitly tied to a culture’s level of civilization – the closer to European music, the more civilized the culture that produced it.

And so, the Philippine Constabulary Band, one of the most popular military bands at the St. Louis Worlds’ Fair of 1904, was juxtaposed next to the tribal people of the Philippines as visual and audible proof of the U.S.’ successful project of civilizing Filipinos. The band’s conductor, Lt. Loving, could not be explained by this simple narrative and his identity as a Black American officer was therefore deleted and nearly absent from most periodical reports.

The Filipino band played “Stars and Stripes forever” more than any other band to highlight achievement of U.S. rule in the Philippines. An imperial way of hearing the band’s music-making allowed Americans to take credit for the Filipinos’ tutelage and attainment while forgetting the violence and death of colonial rule. Certainly, it provides a rare glimpse into the ways that music could bridge differences between individuals, frequently breaching social norms and racial restrictions in some instances not reported by newspapers.

As circumstances of U.S. colonization of the Philippines changed leading up to and during World War II, so did the meaning of Philippine Constabulary Band’s performances. The direction and success of the band under Filipino leadership resonated with similar

hopes over the independence of the Philippines generally.

If I must say so, the band and Loving’s leadership provided alternate expressions of Filipino and African American identities from the negative portrayals in American culture, connecting the goals of educated Filipino Americans and African Americans in a strategy of racial uplift.

When Japan took over the Philippines, western band music failed to demonstrate Japanese cultural superiority over Filipinos and was ineffective as an instrument of empire. Interviews with Filipino bandsmen who went to the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition with Loving give voice to the Filipinos’ experiences.

In her book’s conclusion, the writer Talusan discuss how the Filipinos continue to make music, perform and express themselves, critiquing and challenging the symbolic violence engendered in old stereotypes and tropes with their creativity, skills, and ingenuity.

No doubt about it, “Instruments of Empire: Filipino Musicians,

Black Soldiers, and Military Band Music during U.S. Colonization of the Philippines” is the first booklength study of the celebrated Philippine Constabulary Band, a military ensemble (and again, as I’ve earlier stated, in their later years, an orchestra) led by African American U.S. military officer and bandleader Lt. Walter H. Loving. Through close readings of archival documents, oral histories and interviews, secondary sources, and reimagining’s of prior performances, Talusan brings music – its performers and productions – to the forefront. Her narrative beautifully lays out for us how these Filipino musicians – our “kababayans” – and their work teach us to listen against the “imperial ear” so to speak and, in the process, apprehend the deep significance of the Philippine Constabulary Band’s early twentieth-century musical and every day, performances until today.

Truly, Talusan’s book is a mustread for all students of history, colonialism, media studies, race relations, and American popular music. Mabuhay!

JESSE REYES

Spiritual Life

Counting our days

I just celebrated my birthday and I found this article written by Professor Claude Mariottini entitled “Counting our days”, thoughtprovoking and very enlightening. Hence, I decided to share it with you, my readers.

“Teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart” (Psalm 90:12).

There are certain occasions of the year, especially birthdays, that compel us to count our days and realize how fast time passes by, which is in fact, the passing away of our lives. It is at this time of reflection, when we celebrate our birthday, a new year of life, that we realize another year is gone. Each new year of life compels us to number our days and as we do, we realize that the passing away of our days brings us closer to the day we will meet our Maker.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). We cannot change these two fixed days in our lives, but we surely can influence what happens between the time of birth and the time of death.

This is the reason the psalmist said that we must learn to number our days in such a way that we may gain a wiser heart. If the time between life and death is the time of our education for the future, then we must learn not to waste our precious little time and throw away the opportunities the school of life offers to us. Life is a school, the place where we train daily to face the challenges of the future.

As we count our days, we cannot be indifferent and unaffected by the fact that twelve months more of life have passed away. During the passing of those twelve months, most of us have experienced joys and sorrows that will be part of our memories until the end.

Life is ephemeral. Most of us live for seventy years or so. With good health, some of us will live to eighty or even more (Psalm 90:10).

Testimony

To us who are limited by time, seventy or eighty years appear to be a vast stretch of time, but to God, a thousand years is scarcely any time at all. For a thousand years in God’s sight are but as yesterday. Time has no relation to God; it does not affect him: “ For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past, or like a watch in the night” (Psalm 90:4). The psalmist said that to God a thousand years is like one day, like a watch of the night, a mere four hours. A thousand years or a day is all the same to God.

In God’s time our lives last from morning into evening, the psalmist prayed: “Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, so that we may rejoice and be glad as long as we live” (Psalm 90:14). By learning to rightly count the days of his life, the psalmist was asking God to enable him to take to heart the lessons which the brevity of life should teach him.

Since the school of life teaches us that life is ephemeral, we must then learn how to seek that which is eternal. We do not know whether our days will be few or many. So brief is human life that not everyone will enjoy the blessings of old age, because death can come suddenly and our lives be removed in the middle of our blossoming years, before our flower withers.

Our education in the school of life prepares us to recognize that life is a precious gift of God. So, as you celebrate your birthday today, you must remember that the sun is setting and the evening of your life is fast

approaching.

For those who have faith in their Creator, the setting of the sun will not lead them into a dark and fearful night, but into a glorious morning, into another day that will have no end. But in order for them to rightly number their days that they might become wiser, they must remember the one who created them:

“Remember your creator while you are young, before the evil days come, and the years approach when you will say, ‘They no longer give me pleasure’” (Ecclesiastes 12:1).

In order to gain a wise heart, we need God’s teaching, for “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). God alone can teach us the real meaning of life and the lasting values that can lead us to abundant living.

When we number our days, we realize the brevity of life, that we must give our attention to matters that last, to eternal things. Life is short and since life is short, it should be wisely spent. We do not have enough time to dissipate our precious life in things that do not last nor are we sure that we have enough days in our lives that we may postpone the times of our decision. When we gain wisdom, we discover what are the most important things in life. The Bible teaches us that the wisdom that leads to abundant living comes from God.

Happy Birthday.

Claude Mariottini Professor of Old Testament Northern Baptist Seminary

After celebrating the feast of the Almighty God whom we profess as One and Triune, today we celebrate the Feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Jesus, commonly known as Corpus Christi. If the mystery of the Trinity is one that transcends human understanding, the mystery of the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist in the form of bread and wine is another that cannot easily be accepted. Nevertheless, this is the reality that all the four gospels narrate that Jesus himself mentioned, namely, He is the “Bread of Life” that came down from heaven. Only in eating this bread which is his own body and drinking the wine which turns to be his blood can one gain eternal life. Indeed, it is a real mystery laden with God’s love for humanity and humanity’s desire for participation in the life of the divine. This springs real hope for eternity. Reflection on this mystery would not be enough in the framework of a homily on the day of this wonderful feast, but allow me to simply share some points for us to remember during this feast. The first that comes to my mind is the tremendous greatness of God’s love for humanity. He did not only send his only Son Jesus who gave his life on the for humanity in filial trust and obedience to his Father, but he continues to remain in the midst of humanity for no other reason but to keep this love of the Father alive in the hearts and minds of humanity. Jesus remains true and really present in the world in spite of the fact that He has already ascended back to his

heavenly abode in the sacramental forms of the bread and wine that he left behind as a memorial of his saving actions, words and life while on earth. Isn’t this real love for man who remains oftentimes deaf to his words and insensitive to his presence if not doubtful of his existence? However, He continues to be faithful to his promises that he would not abandon man and only when man would believe in Him and receive Him in faith and devotion would man truly see and understand how wonderful is God’s love, for and in return how he can truly love others in the manner that Jesus himself has loved humanity.

The second reality is the fact that the faith in the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist which is lasting sign of his love for man is the foundation of all the activities that man could ever do in responding to Jesus and his call to follow him. When we come to believe in the presence of Jesus in our midst as an act of his perpetual love for us, then we reciprocate to his love by loving Him in return and loving other neighbors who are visible in our lives. This is truly the

beginning of becoming a community of disciples which come together because of the love for Jesus and the love for others. In the Encyclical letter of Blessed John Paul II entitled “Ecclesia de Eucharistia” he clearly mentioned that the Church is founded on the Eucharist itself and the Eucharist is truly the foundation on which his disciples come together to be nourished, sustained and have to strength to carry on his original mission of bringing the good news to people.

The third reality that I wish to share is the fact that our sharing in the mission of Jesus can only happen and be effectively successful when it is based on the mystery of the Eucharist. As we pray for new and intensive evangelization in the world today, faith in the mystery of the Eucharist is once more being called for. For this reason I believe that we must examine ourselves today how deep is our faith in Jesus and his real presence in the Blessed Sacrament. Our catechism tells us that He really, truly and sacramentally present in the Bread and Wine that we see consecrated at mass and reserved in the Blessed Sacrament. How does this faith in his real presence influence our daily lives, as members of a Catholic family, as members of a parish community, as Catholic workers in the midst of a world that is no longer open to believe in the existence of God? The feast of Corpus Christi should be an occasion for us to renew commitment to love Jesus and do his new commandment of love for others now and forever.

Sa ating paglalakbay sa pansamantala nating buhay Lahat ay makakaranas ng tukso na sa akala natin maganda ang alay Atin usisain at intindihain ang tunay na pakay Maiwasan ang pagsisisi ang tukso ay talikuaran at iwalay.

A friend is a sky-diving, mountain-climbing, hang-gliding thrill-seeker, but in the cave he felt sheer panic. He was terrified. He tried fighting his fear, but he kept picturing his dead body moldering in the cave. Finally, he told his guide he was about to lose it, and the guide said, "Hey, close your eyes and listen to my voice. I will keep talking, calmly, and guide you through this. We will be okay. I have been here before. I will get you to the other side. But you must listen to my voice. It will not work for you to let your thoughts run wild. Just focus on my voice." He did so. What freed him from panic and fear was not trying hard to quit thinking fearful thoughts. It was listening to another voice.

What voice do you listen to when you're in the cave and it's dark, when the ceiling is low and you can't back out? The Spirit longs to flow in our minds all the time. One reason why people have found memorizing Scripture helpful is that it helps us listen to the voice of our guide when we are in the cave. We set our minds on those thoughts that equip us for life. God does not want us to live in worry or fear. He wants us to live with bold confidence in his power. "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and selfdiscipline."

to flourish,” she told Marcos.

“So, we are extremely happy at the state of our relationship and my brief stay here is really to continue to bolster the trade and investment as you mentioned including in emerging areas and to look for other areas of cooperation. We want to

Danny Hernaez From Whom All Blessings

In the Bible, we see a pattern in which God rarely sends people into situations where their comfort level is high. Rather He promises to be with them in their fear. It is God's presence - not comfortable circumstances - that brings people to the best version of themselves.

Paul said that when we live in the flow of the Spirit, he does not make us timid, but instead gives us power and love. This is not the only place in the Bible where we see a close connection between receiving love and living in power. The apostle John makes the same association in one of the most famous statements in the Bible: "There is no fear in love... perfect love casts out fear."

When we live in the flow of the Spirit, we let the perfect love of God wash over us until our fear begins to leave. Modern science has confirmed what John wrote so many centuries ago. Love and fear are literally incompatible in our bodies. God wants to love you -

be partners. We are invested in the Philippines,” she added. Marcos also noted that the two countries, as co-founders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), are partners in advancing key issues in regional and international fora amid the "shifting winds of geopolitics and great power rivalries."

Before presenting her credentials

and in loving you, to cast out your fear.

Jesus was facing adversity when he told his followers that if they had faith, they could command a mountain and it would be cast into the sea. When my focus is on the mountain, I am driven by my fear. When my focus is on God, however, I am made alive by my faith. But if I did not have the mountain, I would not know that faith could be in me.

Use your imagination to picture being shepherded by the Lord in green pastures beside still waters. Is there any room for fear?

God knows that you can stand that trial; He would not give it to you if you could not. It is His trust in you that explains the trials of life, however bitter they may be. God knows our strength, and He measures it to the last inch; and a trial was never given to any man that was greater than that man's strength, through God, to bear it.

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to Marcos, Yuan was accorded arrival honors and signed the Palace guestbook.

Diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Singapore were established in 1969.

The two countries will celebrate their 55th anniversary in 2024.

Outgoing Czech Republic envoy's farewell call Meantime, outgoing Czech

Ang tukso ay isang pangakit sa kasalanan Nangangako ng kaligayahan sa paraang labag sa katotohanan Mga bagay-bagay na makakamtan handog ng kamunduhan Hindi nasasangayon sa mga Dakilang Kautusan.

Hindi lubos na batid ng magnanakaw na ang kanyang ginagawa ay masama Tanging laman ng isip ay siya ay magkakaroon ng pera

Ang babaeng nagpapalaglag ng anak sa sinapupunan Hindi pa tao ang turing, maari pang alisin at tuloy mawala ang ala-ala ng isang di-magandang pagsasama. Alam na alam ng Diyablo ang ating kahinaan dahil sa ating pagkatao Pati ang ating Panginoon noong Siya ay nagkatawang tao Siya inalok ng Kayamanan, Kapangyarihan at Kadakilaang dulot ng Kamunduhan Lahat ng mga ito ay Kanyang tinangihan, harinawa tayo din naman.

Dalawang bagay lamang ang mangyayari sa tuwing tayo ay tinutukso Kapag ang alok ng tukso ay ating mapaglabanan Lalong tumitibay ang ating buhay sa Pagmamahal,

Pagasa at Pananampalataya Kapag naman tayo ay tinalo ng Tukso Dulot ay isang buhay na masalimuot at magulo. Tayo ay magpakumbaba at taimtim nating hingin sa Panginoon Pagkalooban tayo ng karagdagang lakas at dunong Labanan natin ang anumang tukso na magiging hadlang Sa ating hangarin na makaabot sa Kanyang Kaharian.

Republic Ambassador to the Philippines Jana Sediva paid a farewell call to Marcos, based on a video uploaded on the official Facebook page of state-run Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM).

Sediva concluded her diplomatic posting to the country after three

years. One of her recent activities before her diplomatic work ended was the launching of a book titled "Kaibigan

– Pratele: Czech – Philippine Cultural and Diplomatic Dialogue", a collaboration among Czech and Filipino writers and scholars.

The book commemorates the long-standing friendship and relives the shared history between the two countries.

The Philippines and Czech Republic will celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations this October. (MNS)

There is no fear in love...

Aurora S. Cudal-Rivera My Personal

Fr. Agustin T. Opalalic

TUKSO

Ni Salvador S. Idos

Salvador S. Idos

MARISSA BANEZ

Continued from page 1

international firm, an award-winning children’s author and, hopefully, a soon-to-be playwright. Her second book, Hues And Harmony (How the Rainbow Butterfly Got Her Colors), which deals with multiraciality, belonging, and, ultimately, love, will

be published by Black Rose Writing on July 20, 2023. Visit www. marissabanez.com to learn more.

Editor's Note: On June 24-25, 2023, multicultural children's book author Marissa Banez, will be in San Diego for a Reading and Signing events as presented by Filipino Press. Refer to page 3 of the paper for details. Event is Free must

you must pre-register at susands4@ yahoo.com or call/text (619)7550755 for more information. On July 22, 2023, Marissa Banez will be conducting a reading and signing events with 3 different kids's groups for a program with the Philippine Consulate in New York . For more info, connect with Ms. Banez at www.marissabanez.com

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Dr. Joseph Novencido

Secretary: Dr. Mariles Valencia

Treasurer: Dr. Carmelita Uy

Board of Directors:

Dr. Valerie Altavas

Dr. Irineo Tiangco

Dr. Arwinnah Bautista

Dr. Griselda Tiu

Dr. Luzviminda Pizarro

Dr. Elena Vitug

Dr. Renato Dela Rosa

Dr. Arthur Cardones

Dr. Maria Theresa Villa

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Dr. Frank Dulin

Dr. Dottie Ann Sazon

Chairmen Committee:

Mindfulness/Wellness

Committee:

Dr. Renato Dela Rosa

Healthy Living: Feed the Hungry

Program: Dr. Griselda Tiu

Practice Management/ Membership Committee: Dr. Joseph Novencido PMASD Inc., is not exclusive of its own. It is known for its community outreach both at local and international levels. It has involved itself in numerous charitable works such as providing medical services abroad, both in Philippines and other countries, reaching out to pandemic stricken remote areas in the Philippines by providing goods and services and financial assistance and providing Covid vaccinations in community outreach programs locally. It has also provided scholarship programs during the presidency of Dr. Griselda Tiu, to local medical students who are now full pledged practicing local doctors in the community. It is comprised solely of Filipino and Filipino-American doctors who unselfishly devote their time helping the poor and the lowly, the disabled, the sick regardless of age, gender, nationality and origin.

PMASD Inc. extends its warmest appreciation and heartfelt thanks to its primary sponsor Primary Care Associates CEO, Dr. Homan Siman who, aside from sponsoring the occasion, voluntarily and generously offered to donate $26,000.00 in support of its charitable projects.

PMASD Inc. also acknowledges its secondary sponsors with warmest heartfelt thanks: Dr. Usama Alkazaki of Palm Care Pharmacy and Cecil Marie Alcaraz, owner of Suite Care Pharmacy.

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Congratulations to PMASD Inc. Officers 2023-2024. Mabuhay!

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