Yes Philippines News Magazine UK November 2021

ONLY

Th e TRUE LOCA L

FROM

Fi l i pi no Communi ty New spaper COV ER to COV ER UNITED KINGDOM EDITION

FFR R EEEE C OCP O Y PY

NOVEMBER2021

HI S EX CELLENCY

A NTONI O M . LA GDA M EO Ph i l i ppi ne A mbassador to th e UK

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SEPTEM BER 2021

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NOVEM BER 2021

Let t er f r om t h e Pu blish er er e w e ar e in Novem ber , t h e last m on t h of au t u m n . It?s the month that

Yes Philippines may not last that long, but we foresee many more fruitful years of bringing you news, information and entertainment.

gives us the heads-up on colder days to come. As they say in ?Game of Thrones,? ?winter is coming,? which by the way, is a metaphor for hard times. But we don?t want that! We would rather look forward to the festive season that is on its way.

In this month?s issue, we have two stories for All Saints?Day, one is on how things have changed in the annual observance of this tradition in light of Covid-19, and the other is about a woman who lives in a cemetery with her family.

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by M ARY SOL PIM ENTEL

?? an informative article written by a Filipino genealogist ? discusses how many of us got our surnames based on a decree in 1849 by a Spanish governor-general.?

It is in November when the Leonid meteor shower presents a spectacular display of shooting stars, visible in the night sky practically for the whole month, although you would have to be away from the city lights to get the best view.

On 5th November, Guy Fawkes Day is observed in the UK to remember the treasonous attempt by a soldier to blow up the House of Lords in 1605 to overthrow King James I. Thankfully for the British monarchy, he failed and was executed together with his co-conspirators.

Here?s another November-related fact.

According to a study of about 400,000 people, those who were born in November are more likely to live up to 100 years. Well,

We also have an informative article written by a Filipino genealogist, exclusively for Yes Philippines, that would definitely spark a lot of interest. It discusses how many of us got our surnames based on a decree in 1849 by a Spanish governor-general.

Two regular contributors to our health and wellbeing section will inspire and motivate you with their musings on life lessons.

For our cover story, we feature the Philippines?ambassador to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Antonio Lagdameo.

So, go ahead and spend the next half-hour or so thumbing through your favourite newsmagazine to be informed and entertained, as always.

Happy reading!

This Edition is distributed all over the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland & Northern Ireland)

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NOVEM BER 2021

PHILIPPINE HISTORY CORNER

Hi story i n Nov ember alchetron.com

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wikipedia.com

On November 21, 1849, then Governor General Narciso Claveria issued a decree to adopt a standardized Filipino names and surnames.

Through the so-called "Claveria Decree", he issued a list of family names in alphabetical order, which were based on a catalog of Spanish surnames.

ovem ber 10, 1953, Ram on M asaysay w as elect ed Pr esiden t

On November 10, 1953, Ramon Magsaysay was elected President by the largest majority in the history of the country, 2,912,992 votes as against a vote of 1,313,991 for the incumbent, President Elpidio Quirino.

Accordingly, Claveria distributed the list of family names to the heads of the provinces, then the head of each province sent a portion of the list to each parish priest.

Young, vigorous, active, blunt, honest, a man of the people, Magsaysay, whose campaign slogan was "Magsaysay is My Guy", commanded a soul-stirring following among the masses and among the more enlightened classes as well.

All look to him to pull the country out of the swamp of post-war corruption in which it had become engulfed.

That was the main, if not the only, issue in the elections.

Novem ber 20, 1645, t h e Un iver sit y of San t o Tom as w as elevat ed t o u n iver sit y st at u s by Pope In n ocen t X

During the election campaign it was reported that people often came from far distances not only to see and hear him, but to touch him, as if there was a virtue in him which could be communicated.

On November 20, 1645, the University of Santo Tomas (UST), one of the existing and oldest universities in Asia, was elevated to university status

by Pope Innocent X.

Novem ber 12, 1979, M im ilan ie Lau r el M ar qu ez w on t h e M iss In t er n at ion al beau t y pagean t h eld in Tok yo, Japan

Originally called Colegio de Nuestra Señora del Santissimo Rosario, UST was founded on April 28, 1611 as a school to prepare young men for the priesthood, but the people?s thirst for education transformed it into a university.

On November 12, 1979, Mimilanie ?Melanie? Laurel Marquez won the Miss International beauty pageant held in Tokyo, Japan.

Born on July 16, 1964, Marquez won the prestigious beauty contest at the age of 15.

She is one of four Filipino women who have so far held the Miss International crown since the beauty contest began in 1960.

The other three are, Gemma Guerrero Cruz Araneta, who won the title in Long Beach, California in 1964; Aurora McKenny Pijuan in Osaka, Japan in 1970; and Precious Lara Quigaman, also in Tokyo in 2005.

www.officialgazette.gov.ph

It was founded by Msgr. Miguel de Benavides, O.P., together with Frays Domingo de Nieva and Bernardo de Santa Catalina, a Dominican and Third Archbishop of Manila who bequeathed his library and goods valued at P1, 500 in 1611.

It was renamed Colegio de Santo Tomas in memory of the preeminent Dominican theologian St. Thomas Aquinas.

Novem ber 21, 1849, Claver ia issu ed a decr ee t o adopt a st an dar dized r ecor ds of Filipin o n am es an d su r n am es

Depending on what he thought was the number of families in each barangay, the priest allocated a part of the list to the "cabeza" (barangay head). The cabeza was then asked to assist the oldest person of each family to choose a surname, which upon registration, the individual involved as well as his direct descendants would from then on use as family name.

Under the Claveria decree, those who changed or did not use the name recorded in the new register would be imprisoned. Documents which did not carry the registered family name would not be considered valid.

Hence, since 1850, most Filipinos started using new surnames based on the Claveria list.

Novem ber 30, 1645, a st r on g ear t h qu ak e occu r r ed in M an ila On November 30, 1645, occurred the most destructive earthquake known in the islands since the Spanish conquest. Manila was laid waste by it.

Bodies of the dead and the dying were buried under the ruins. The extent of the damage to buildings were enormous. Most of the people left the city and encamped in the fields or on the beach.

Much havoc was wrought by the earthquake in various other places in the islands. The shocks and disturbances continued for some time afterward, although much lessened in force.

(Th e Kah im yan g Pr oject )

ISSUE 6 BER 2021 SEPTEM

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NOVEM BER 2021

PINOY ENTREPRENEUR

M y Career Journey BYROSEJILLIANECASIA-ROBINSON

My friends call me RJ. My parents are Engr.

Romeo Casia and Engr. Rosie Camelo. I was born in Tabaco, Albay, Philippines. I graduated from the Tabaco Pei Ching School with honours. In 2012, I got my bachelor ?s degree in Architecture from Bicol University and was one of the outstanding graduates. I value education so much because my mom always told me that it?s the best thing she could ever give us - the diploma that will give us a bright future.

A few months later last year, we started receiving design jobs in architecture and in interior design, two areas that I love the most.

After I finished my degree, I was hired in Makati by an Australian company and worked as an Architectural Draftsman. But I didn?t want to do that for a long time and was eager to take the architecture licensure exam having spent some time doing my apprenticeship in Albay. I took the test, passed it on my first try and became a licensed architect in 2013. I started to work as a Project Architect in a construction firm in Paranaque.

Things are going well, and we now have 5 employees in the Philippines and myself in the UK together with my husband who helps with client facing from time to time.

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Later, in 2014, a big consultancy firm based in Dubai hired me from Manila and brought me to Dubai to work as an architect. It was the biggest life changer for me.

I have ample time to develop Casia Robinson while being employed at the energy company, as I don?t need to render any extra hours of work.

Things started from just me doing drawings and design in my spare time until I began hiring employees in the UK and in Dubai.

Later I realised how many good architects lost their jobs in the Philippines because of the crisis. So, I tested out and hired one in Albay.

We have recently completed designs for house extensions, a 3-storey flat, a full renovation of a beach house, an outdoor gym, two burger shops, and a big university in London where we provided BIM support to one of its contractors.

After two years, I enrolled at the IE School of Architecture and Design in Madrid to gain my master ?s degree in Business in Architecture. I was awarded an IE women?s scholarship. In 2017, I spent some time in London to complete my degree, and finally graduated.

Our team have also just completed our first ever architectural competition entry - an office building in Pennsylvania, US. We are also currently working on designs for terraced houses, one new-build bungalow with swimming pool, a dessert shop, and a steak house. We also have just registered for another architecture competition.

In 2019, the big consultancy firm I worked for in Dubai opened a branch in London and moved me there. Later, I became a LEED Green Associate.

We are a small dynamic team, and we are always busy. I foresee the future of Casia Robinson closing out some big design contracts and eventually hiring a few people in the UK full-time.

When the pandemic happened, they had to make most of their London employees redundant, including myself. But no, it wasn?t an unfortunate event. It was a redirection. Just a week after my last day, I started working in a construction firm in London as a Design Manager. But in the back of my head, I had been screaming to start my own practice! I didn?t know how, and didn?t know when, but all I knew was that I wanted to do it soon.

I also plan to go back to university to do my RIBA part 3 or another master ?s degree, or to get a certification as a BIM expert.

I just believe that it is very important to invest in yourself because you always get a good return eventually.

I knew that many firms had to lay off employees due to the crisis the pandemic had caused. But even then, the deadlines of the drawings didn?t change. The projects they wanted to close were still bidding. So, I decided to come up with a solution to this problem. On the 8thof June 2019, I registered my company Casia Robinson Ltd. I provided CAD services to provide support to builders or architects that fell short of their manpower.

With this vision, I knew I needed a full-time job and not just a contractual one. I applied for some and got job offers. The two main options I was torn between were the huge energy company and the international architectural firm with branches all over the world. I decided to go for the energy company and be a BIM Specialist.

In April this year, I just gave birth to our baby girl who absolutely added more happiness to our lives. With just my husband and myself to take care of her while doing our own full-time jobs, things aren?t so easy. It takes a lot of time management skills and dedication. But we love what we do, and we have decided together whatever it is we have in our lives, so we have prepared ourselves for it.

The year 2020 may not have been the easiest due to Covid and may even be considered by some as one of the worst years of our lifetime as it brought pain and suffering. Although it had been tragic for many, it has brought success to some. Life is short so whatever you feel like doing, do it, and always strive for the best.

Just set your goals and go get them!

NOVEM BER 2021

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ALL SAINTS' DAY FEATURE

'Undas' ami d Cov i d-19: A di f f erent w ay of h onouri ng th e dead

findagrave.com

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s r est r ict ion s on m ass gat h er in gs ar e in place du e t o Covid-19, t h e w ay Filipin os m ar k im por t an t occasion s in t h eir lives h ave ch an ged -- bot h f or t h e livin g an d f or t h e dead.

As the government ordered the closure of resting places for the annual 'Undas' commemoration, Filipinos, would now have to improvise so that they can pay their respects to their departed loved ones during this quarantine period.

For 37-year-old freelance writer Len Armea, a resident of Bulacan, the closing of cemeteries, columbariums, and memorial parks for the 'Undas' holidays means she would have to visit her parents and grandparents much earlier than accustomed to.

"The cemetery that we (visit) here in Bulacan had already issued an announcement that it will be closed to the public for one whole week. I plan to go there a week or two before October 31 to bring flowers to my parents and grandparents, and then light a candle and offer prayers on All Souls' Day at home," she added in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.

Before the pandemic, Armea said she and her relatives would often spend the night of October 31 in the cemetery and then go home around 2 a.m. of November 1 and return on the afternoon of that day and on November 2.

"We observe the tradition of bringing flowers, lighting a candle, and offering prayers. It was also like a mini-reunion in the cemetery because most of our relatives would also visit and pay their respects to our dearly departed loved ones," she added.

Armea, however, said she is fine with the order prohibiting people from congregating on the

cemeteries during the "Undas" holidays as part of its efforts to prevent a surge in Covid-19 cases.

City, said she would be an early bird in visiting her departed loved ones.

"Cemeteries are usually crowded during All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day which means that there might be a surge of Covid-19 cases during these days. We still need to prioritize implementing health and safety measures. Personally, the government decision to close the cemeteries during these holidays is not a big deal to me because I?d usually visit my parents?grave several times in a year. I believe that we can honour our dead loved ones in so many ways, and on other days (and) times."

She added that she would time her visit on one of the Sundays of this month.

Meanwhile, production worker Brian Barrun, 37, from Pulo, Cabuyao, Laguna, said he would just spend the "Undas" holidays at home and will honour his deceased father by lighting a candle and saying a prayer.

Barrun said he has learned to accept that there would be no mini-reunion with his relatives in the cemetery this year.

Likewise, Ramz Alamis, 26, of Tanza, Cavite, would spend the "Undas" holidays at home and just offer prayers, foods, and candles to his departed loved ones.

And for Katherine Nepomuceno, 42, a resident of Barangay Niugan, Malabon, she is in favour of the government's move on the commemoration of All Saints' and All Souls' Days.

She added that the holiday can be observed without going into the cemeteries as people can just say a prayer and light a candle inside their homes.

"Besides, you could go to the cemeteries once the pandemic is over. At this period, safety should be our priority," she said.

Meanwhile, Angela Perez, 37, a resident of Quezon

In the past, she and her relatives often spend the "Undas" holidays by going to the cemeteries night time of October 31 and staying there until half-day of November 1 offering prayers, flowers, and lighting candles for the eternal repose of the souls of the deceased.

Bernard Ferrer, 28, a radio and television reporter based in Taguig City, said he and other relatives already visited his grandparents at the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque.

He added that their "Undas' visits to the cemetery served as a reunion of sorts for their family, hence they have a lot of food. He said they would be lighting candles and hearing Mass for their deceased loved ones.

Meanwhile, John Kenette Reyes, a sales agent from Taguig City, said the public should comply with the government's orders regarding cemetery visits on "Undas".

"It?s okay. We just have to stick with the rules implemented by our government if we want to lessen the Covid-19 cases. Discipline is needed at this time.

For me, that is the reason why our Covid-19 cases are still high," he added.

Reyes also said he would light a candle in honour of his deceased loved ones and offer flowers and prayers on either October 30 or 31 as part of the observance.

(By PRIAM NEPOM UCENO & CHRISTOPHER LLOYD CALIWAN - PNA)

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NOVEM BER 2021

FRONTLINERS

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h er e did you st u dy n u r sin g?

cultural rehearsals for kids, kid?s basketball club, etc.

I studied nursing at the number 1 nursing school in Philippines West Visayas State University in Iloilo City.

Ar e you goin g t o st ay in t h e UK f or good?

Wh y h ave you ch osen n u r sin g as a car eer ?

I chose nursing as my career path because I?ve always enjoyed helping people. The rewarding nature of the job motivated me, aside from the potential of greater job opportunities, especially abroad.

Wh er e did you w or k bef or e you cam e t o t h e UK?

The future is still uncertain, but my heart is divided between the UK & the Philippines.

I?ve invested in two houses so that my family and I can always stay in either of the two.

Wh at ar e you r f u t u r e plan s car eer -w ise?

I am always willing to take new challenging roles. Climbing the professional ladder is my aim and it?s part of the plan.

I had a broad work experience in the Philippines. I started working in ED (Emergency Department), then in private care nursing, Paediatric Intensive Care Unit. I also worked in Yemen for two-and-a half years in Medical-Surgical Nursing, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Burn Unit, and NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).

Wh en did you com e t o t h e UK? I arrived in the UK in 2003 and started working in a nursing home for more than a year. Then I moved to the Royal Derby Hospital in the Step Down Unit under Critical Care.

Wh at ar e t h e r espon sibilit ies of you r job?

My role as a senior staff nurse is to support junior nurses, running & managing the team in a very busy ward. Conduct some training, support the Intensive Care Unit, especially during the pandemic.

Wh at ot h er t h in gs ar e you in volved in at w or k ?

Currently, I am one of the Hospital Super Users in IT, the ?Freedom to Speak? representative for Filipinos, a Health & Wellness representative, and a champion table tennis athlete.

Wh at do you lik e abou t livin g in t h e UK? Living in the UK gives me security, not just for myself but also for my family. I like the career & work stability.

Royal Der by Hospit al

Wh at do you do in you r f r ee t im e?

I do a lot of DIY, craftsmanship, Filipino community work such as organising Zumba,

derbytelegraph.co.uk

NOVEM BER 2021

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NOVEM BER 2021

I M M I GRA TI ON CORNER

Ref usal of Ch i l dren A ppl i cati ons:

Th e " Ev i l Tw i ns" ?

BYATTY. LIRASIMONCABATBAT

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epar at ion can be ver y dif f icu lt an d f or som e t h is is m ade even h ar der w h er e a r ef u sal decision w as m ade in an applicat ion f or t h eir ch ild / ch ildr en t o join t h em in

t h e UK. The reasons provided by the Home Office in 90 percent of our appeal cases is that of ?sole responsibility?. This is increasingly coupled with the contention that the child is ?leading an independent life?, where the child is in his/her teens. I often refer to these two distinct provisions as the ?evil twins? as they are utilised with alarming regularity especially where the applicant child is aged 16 and above.

The usual scenario involves a sponsor parent who has been living in the UK for several years working to support his / her child. The other parent is no longer involved in the child?s life following separation from the sponsor parent.

The sponsor parent remits money regularly to another member of the child?s family for his / her support and this arrangement goes on for several years until the sponsor parent is finally in a position to apply for the child to join him / her in the UK. Our practice, Douglass Simon Solicitors, has seen an increased willingness on part of the Home Office to refuse applications of children in the above scenario and the reasons are all too often the ?evil twins?; failure to demonstrate ?sole responsibility? on behalf of the sponsor parent and an allegation that the child has been ?leading an independent life?. It is further worrying that the refusal decision regularly lacks cogent reasoning, often only citing the years of separation and nothing more.

The starting point for challenging refusals based on the above should begin with consideration of the relevant rules namely para E-EEC.1.5 (the applicant must not be leading an independent life) and E-EEC.1.6(b) (the applicant?s parent has had and continues to have sole responsibility for the child?s upbringing) of Appendix FM to the Immigration Rules. As usual, rules are expounded upon by caselaw. Hence the premise of any challenge should begin with the question, did the decision properly consider the rules and relevant caselaw? If not, you should appeal the decision.

difference between one-parent and two-parent cases.

It observed that in a one-parent case the starting point will generally be that it is the sole active parent who will be likely to have sole responsibility, and the issue will be whether s/he has exercised it despite the separation. On the other hand, in a two- parent case the usual starting point will be that both parents have responsibility for the upbringing of the child.?

The case of NM (Zimbabwe) v SSHD [2007] UKAUT 00051 provided that:

the sponsor parent has had sole responsibility.

?Where a child ? is seeking limited leave to remain as the child of a parent with limited leave, in order to establish that he is not ?leading an independent life? he must not have formed through choice a separate (and therefore independent) social unit from his parents?family unit whether alone or with others. A child who, for example, chooses to live away from home may be ?leading an independent life?despite some continuing financial and/or emotional dependence upon his parents Hence, the fact that the child has not lived with the sponsor parent since the parent moved to the UK does not, on its own, justify a finding that a child had formed his own independent social unit.

The Home Office?s common failure to properly consider para E-EEC.1.6(b) of Appendix FM is also a ground for challenge especially where there is no direction upon the case of TD Yemen [2006] UKAIT 00049 (Paragraph 297(i)(e): "sole responsibility") as approved in Buydov v Entry Clearance Officer, Moscow [2012] EWCA Civ 1739 at [18] where it was held: ?? The Tribunal drew attention to the factual

The Home Office all too often omits reference to whether the application is a one-parent or two-parent case. This is a crucial starting point in any fact-finding investigation into whether

Decisions often cite the law but fail to go beyond this. The Home Office is bound by rules of transparency as noted in the case of MK (duty to give reasons) Pakistan [2013]

UKUT 00641 (IAC). Hence to simply state the law does not, as it were, ?cut it? the refusal decision must provide reason(s). Mere incantation of the rules is insufficient, but this is not to say that it is incumbent on the Home Office to seek out evidence. Here, applicants bew ar e as it is for you to prove your case so failure to explain or provide evidence will make a refusal justifiable and difficult to appeal.

Where evidence has been submitted in compliance with ?sole responsibility? and further evidence is given rebutting ?independent family life? the Home Office is duty bound to state why they have concluded that there is discrepant evidence.

ISSUE 6

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NOVEM BER 2021

ALL SAINTS' DAY FEATURE

Li v i ng among th e dead: Nanay Di day's story

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n t h e M an ila Nor t h Cem et er y (M NC), gr aves br in g lif e t o people w h o live on t h e f r in ges of societ y.

Mausoleums become home for many poor families, enabling them to live like normal communities, as they eat and sleep beside the graves.

For more than six decades, a chapel -- where two tombs lie inside -- became home to 74-year-old Aurora Mangampo, known in the area as Nanay Diday.

The adversity of life brought her and her family in the Manila North Cemetery in 1964.

"I was brought here by my brother-in-law who is a labour contractor nearby. I was then tasked to guard the warehouse until I had my own family. We stayed here. I entered every job, I became a vendor, manicurist, I also do laundry until I became a grave cleaner," she shared.

"I had three children with my first husband, we faced a lot of struggles, my older son died and my second son went into drug addiction," she added.

Nanay Diday, despite her condition, remains jolly and hopeful. Her eyes are full of mystery.

"When my husband died, I had a second chance to marry again, unfortunately, he died too," she said. "Both of them died, I felt unlucky in life."

The scenery may scare others. No one could ever imagine a life with the dead. But Nanay Diday said she has no fear of ghosts as she sits

and lies with tombs.

She lives in a classically-designed mausoleum with her children and grandchildren, who are also paid to take care of these tombs.

"It's peaceful here. We're just afraid of those unruly people but its totally peaceful here as we live among the dead," she said.

"I went through a lot of struggles to live normally and peacefully here. At least I am dignified," she said.

the few public water pipes there, where people line up with their empty containersThey pay to use a toilet and take a bath. It's quite a hassle for us to think, but for them, that's how they live while the normal business in the cemetery goes on.

Demolition Meanwhile, a few days before the day of Undas, the MNC management ordered to clear makeshifts and structures in the cemetery premises where most of the people live.

She added that she would rather stay in the cemetery ? a place where she finds peace and tranquility.

The structures built in the tombs were already demolished as these have also been used as a means for illegal entry.

In mausoleums and makeshift structures built over tombs, her family makes ends meet every day.

Like normal communities People who live in the Manila North Cemetery live like normal communities. Children play in these burial grounds, friends chat to ease boredom.

Inside the cemetery, there are makeshift stores selling snacks and basic necessities like soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, etc. Some of the stalls have karaoke machines. Candles are also being sold to the visitors paying respects at the grave of their loved one.

People don't pay much thought about seeing

Hundreds of families were displaced after a team from the Manila Department of Public Safety (DPS) went in the Manila North Cemetery for the clearing operations.Among the structures removed included Nanay Diday's.

Teary-eyed, she said her family "will stay wherever life brings us."

"I hope the government could help us with this.

Of course, we also want a normal life," she said.

"I'm just praying to whatever God will give us. I will accept it even if it means staying here forever," she said.

Nanay Diday is one of those people who

ghosts, so long that they could make a living.

practically had no choice but live among the dead.

They neither have electricity nor lamps to light up their nights.

For a moment in her life, she found peace living in the land of the dead.

Having no running water, they have to walk to

(By LADE JEAN KABAGANI / PNA)

NOVEM BER 2021

FDDC Cul tural Festi v al 2021 O ct o be r 24 , 2 0 2 1 | D e r by, U nit e d Kingdo m

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NOVEM BER 2021

COVER STORY

A mbassador A ntoni o M . Lagdameo: Hi s Fath er's Son BYMARIAELLIS

n e of t h e h allm ar k s of t h e diplom at ic ser vice is t h e abilit y t o speak on e or m or e f or eign lan gu ages. The Filipino ambassador to the Court of St. James, His Excellency Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo is a fluent Spanish speaker, having spoken the language since childhood. He says, ?I grew up speaking Spanish to my parents. I am thankful that as a child, if I had to send notes to my mom when I had forgotten to bring something to school, it would be written in Spanish. On my return from school in the afternoon, said note would have the appropriate corrections in case of grammatical errors, which my mother would point out to me - therefore, lesson learned! It also helped that in school, a lot of my schoolmates were also Spanish-speaking so we would generally end up conversing in English, Pilipino or Spanish.?

O

The ambassador ?s fluency in the language of the conquistadores has served him well in his role as ambassador to Spain and to Mexico. He remarks, ?It certainly helps. Among the Latin countries, the Filipinos are generally treated as the ?Latinos from Asia?. Of course in Spain, since we were ruled by Spain for close to four centuries, we are considered by them as their little brown brothers and treated and accepted as such. In fact, even among our ASEAN brothers, we find more and more that they are making efforts to speak and read Spanish as it is another ?language of diplomacy?!?

Ambassador Lagdameo, who was born in 1942, has had a privileged upbringing.

His family lived in Forbes Park, which

was and still is, the enclave of the affluent. He recalls his idyllic childhood in the Makati of yesteryears. ?... on weekends, my brother and I would sometimes ride our bikes down Ayala Avenue and Buendia to see our friends and classmates from De La Salle College in Pennsylvania Street (now Leon Guinto Avenue). We would also ride around our subdivision with other children of our neighbours. Among the neighbours then were Gen. Carlos P. Romulo and the Zobel de Ayala families who were the developers of Makati.

The ambassador also reminisces about visits to a military reservation and the elite Manila Polo Club. ?We would also sometimes ride our bicycles into Fort Wm. MacKinley and go to the headquarters of the Philippine Cavalry then headed by Colonel Jacobo ?Jake?

Zobel who would show us the stables where they had big horses. The Colonel was a very keen polo player and we would see him and his team on Sundays during the polo season at the Manila Polo Club where we would also have Sunday swimming competitions.?

Antonio Lagdameo is the fourth of six children of Ernesto Lagdameo and Pilar Revilla de Lagdameo who were both natives of Manila. His forebears?names echo colonial Philippines. His paternal grandfather was Bienvenido Lagdameo y Mondragon and his paternal grandmother was Adela Viejo de Lagdameo. On his mother ?s side, his grandmother was Trinidad Zamora y Quisumbing and his grandfather was Manuel Revilla y Eleizegui.

The ambassador ?s wife, Ma. Linda R. Floirendo, is the eldest child of the late Don Antonio O. Floirendo who was

known as the Banana King of the Philippines. She is the chairperson of the ANFLO Group of Companies, which is into banana export, meat processing, real estate development, and many other business interests.

Mr. and Mrs. Lagdameo have seven children - Antonio Jr., a company president, married to movie actress Dawn Zulueta; Maria Elena, a lawyer, married to Irish-American Brian Hogan; Maria Regina Victoria, a businesswoman; Jose Manuel, a company manager, married to Cecilia Tuason Guingona; Ricardo Luis, a company vice-president; Maria Isabel Dominique, a marketing director, married to Brendan Murphy; and Caterina Beatriz, a doctor.

The ambassador ?s siblings are Ernesto Jr., Enrique, Maria Teresa, Maria Josefina and Jose Maria.

As the saying goes, ?an apple doesn?t fall far from the tree,? an adage most appropriate for our UK ambassador who has followed in his father ?s footsteps, the late Ambassador Ernesto V. Lagdameo. However, the paternal

Wedding of Ma. Isabel Dominique - Daughter of Ambassador Lagdameo. December 2018

Mme. Maria Linda Floirendo-Lagdameo with daughters and daughters-in-law

influence has not been confined to his choice of a diplomatic career.

Ambassador Lagdameo has also adopted his father ?s guiding principle in life. He says, ?My philosophy in life something I learned from both my late father and my late father-in-law: Nothing is impossible in this world - the impossible will just take a little longer, which also translates to: ?If at first you don?t succeed, try and try again.?

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NOVEM BER 2021

COVER STORY

Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo with the President of Ireland - HE Michael D. Higgins

Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo with Her Majesty The Queen - February 2017

Therefore I have learned that if there is something you are trying to accomplish, you shall achieve it eventually so long as you persevere and never take no for an answer!?

The young Antonio was a student at the University of the Philippines. After graduating from his Pre-Med course, he went on to the first year of medical school, but being a doctor was not his heart?s desire. He felt that his calling was in the world of business. He says, ?While my interest in medicine was still there, it was not the life that I wanted to live. I am glad that it is my youngest child who is now a Doctor of Medicine and is living my dreams!?

Ambassador Lagdameo has been our country?s representative to the United Kingdom for four years now. When asked what a typical day for him is like, he replies, ?I arrive at the Embassy a few minutes before 9 a.m. to review the schedule for the day and proceed to go over communications, then review and approve what report and other correspondence have to be sent out.

There may be people who want to call on me, or meetings/conferences to attend at noon, or evening receptions.?

He also goes to sessions at the International Maritime Organisation where he is the Permanent Representative of the Philippines.

Undoubtedly, being an ambassador is a highly demanding job, but it can be quite fulfilling at the same time. What does our envoy like most about his work? He replies, ?The aspect of my job that I like the most is meeting and interacting with my counterparts resulting in positive outcomes to what our negotiations were about, therefore

getting the satisfaction of having done your job successfully.?

As an authority on the art of diplomacy, Ambassador Lagdameo cites the key skills of a good diplomat. ?Must be open-minded! Ability to negotiate without being argumentative. Must also have the ability to appreciate the position of the party you are conferring with so as to be able to intelligently but positively get your point across.?

Although he did not mention it, it can be assumed that a liberal sprinkling of charm, of which we Filipinos seem to innately possess, helps.

Being a diplomat has its perks, among which is the high probability of meeting famous people. One widely renowned personality the ambassador has met is Queen Elizabeth II. The ambassador recalls his audience with her. ?As most of the other Ambassadors to the UK will agree, Her Majesty the Queen is always such a presence. At both my presentations of credentials to Her Majesty, the subject of our conversation was very personal wherein she recounted the win of my father-in-law?s horse, Mango Manila, over one of her horses at Ascot several years ago. I mentioned [to her] that when we went to greet her after the race,we did not tarry as we felt she may be upset over the loss, and she remarked, ?In this game, you must remember that you win some, you lose some,? and with a gesture with her fingers, she said, ?but the loss was just by a nose.? ?

Aside from being a horse racing aficionado, our ambassador is also an orchid fan. He says, ?My wife and I have always admired orchids and have actively participated in orchid shows of

Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo with the British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils

With that

the Philippine Orchid Society, and enjoy seeing the different orchids grown all over the world.?

kind of mindset, we can be sure that our ambassador will keep working to the utmost on our behalf.

With his many interests and activities, both as a private person and as a public servant, has the ambassador done everything he wanted to do in his life?

He muses, ?I would not say that I?ve done everything I ever wanted to do in this life because I believe that life is a never-ending challenge, which will inspire you to strive for more.?

His Excellency, Ambassador Antonio M. Lagdameo is an asset to the Filipino community in the UK. He is not just hard-working, he is also, according to a former member of staff in the Madrid Embassy (this writer ?s cousin), ?mabait, so generous, easy to get along with, and really nice as a boss.? And to top it all, an ideal husband to Mrs. Lagdameo. What wife would not want that in her man?

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FACEOF

THEMONTH

MIALIBROJO TEENSTARUK GRANDFINALIST2020 AGE: 18 BASEDINTHEUK: BELFAST, NORTHERNIRELAND HOBBIES: PLAYINGGUITAR& SINGING, WATCHINGTV, ANDLISTENINGTOMUSIC. CURRENTLYDOING: STUDYINGMUSICATMET BELFAST AMBITION: TOBEAFULLTIMEARTIST MOTHER: MA. GEORGINAJUSTIMBASTELIBROJO FATHER: RUDYDANGALANLIBROJO

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NOVEM BER 2021

PINOY ENTREPRENEUR

Owners: Rowena Romulo & Chris Joseph

K A SA & K I N Restaurant and Bar

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ot on ly is it Lon don's m ost dyn am ic dist r ict , Soh o is also h om e t o it s m ost pion eer in g f oodie h ot spot s.

And they don?t get much more game-changing than Kasa and Kin. From the team that brought you Kensington?s multi-award winning Romulo Café & Restaurant comes a unique new concept which, like its sibling, brings a touch of Filipino magic to the neighbourhood.

Kasa and Kin, which opened on 30th October, combines an all-day restaurant & bar, a bakery and patisserie under one roof,

with each element bursting with irresistible southeast Asian flavours.

Kasa means home and Kin means family in Filipino, and this vibrant venue captures the very best of both.

Open from 10am until late at night, it promises to take diners on a culinary adventure. Locals and visitors alike will initially be enticed in by the aroma of pandesal rolls - which have now achieved legendary status, thanks to Romulo. Very soon however they will realise exactly why Filipino food has taken its rightful place among the great cuisines of Asia.

For an early morning pick up, how about a cinnamon ensaymada (cinnamada), a soft and sweet pastry dough with cinnamon and butter? Or a pandesal donut filled with purple yam & coconut?

Come lunchtime, with the neighbourhood buzzing with life and laughter, it?s time to choose from a vast selection of salads, sandwiches and hot dishes, or one of Kasa and Kin?s create-your-own Imbento boxes.

Mid-afternoon and a slice of calamansi citrus tart or purple yam and chocolate layer cake pairs perfectly with a traditional cuppa. Or when the sun is shining, perhaps a shaved iced milk & fruit stack is more fitting? And yes, we?re already obsessed with the wonderfully named Chocolate & Banana Bad Boy!

As evening approaches, a subtle change comes over both the menu and the ambience as the hectic daytime pace transforms into something a little more relaxed. The lights dim and the Pinoy robata grill is prepped for some true food theatre and the best Filipino BBQ sticks this side of Manila, all served alongside a carefully curated selection of artisanal cocktails.

Far more than simply a place to enjoy great food and drink, Kasa and Kin will become an instantly recognisable landmark, thanks to gorgeous interiors from the brilliant, award-winning team at CADA design. At the heart of this joyous explosion of colours and textures is an interactive art mural by creative talesmith Kulay Labitigan, who has conjured up a kaleidoscopic tropical rainforest inspired by the epic poem of Ibong Adarna, the most legendary of Filipino mythical birds.

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NOVEM BER 2021

PINOY TRAVEL CORNER UK

Photo Courtesy: Pilar Grace and Harold Hechanova

PA RT 2: SCOTLA ND TRI P BYEDGARDUAY

Photo Courtesy: Ann Margallo

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ar t 2 of Scot lan d Tou r f eat u r in g POI Glasgow , LOCH LOM M OND, GLENFINNAN VIADUCT, GLENCOE AND EILEAN DONAN CASTLE.This is the second part of our Scotland tour heading to the gorgeous and perhaps, just a few of the most scenic places Scotland could offer.

Like I said in my last article, Scotland - the majestic, panoramic and historical country - is for me the best place for nature lovers. This country is so rich in natural beauty, scenic mountains, castles, tourist spots with breath-taking islands that will make you feel like you are in a James bond or Harry Potter or even Indiana Jones movie. Having said that, on this Scotland tour I will take you to the likes of Glenfinnan viaduct, the majestic Glencoe from the movie ?Skyfall?, Eilean Donan Castle, the beautiful mountain of Ben A?an and the streets of Glasgow city central.

Our journey will begin traveling from where we left off in the last episode - from the Falkirk wheel and the kelps heading west towards Glasgow via the M80 towards the city centre where you can find yourself at the heart of the city centre full of life and arts, street murals, museums of science and Glasgow industrial might.

The post code at the top will take you directly to the NCP parking lot at Mitchell Street. Head out and through the narrow street ahead you will find yourself on Buchanan Street. For shopping galore and towards the right is the town hall and after a 10-minute walk, on the left is Parnie Street which has been transformed into a street in New York for the new Indiana Jones movie. Yes! Yes! I love films and these film locations are a great travel destination for film buffs like me.

Now head out northwest of Glasgow. For just over a two hour-drive to the highlands and the land of lochs, you will be greeted by the majestic Glencoe. If you are an 007 fanatic, this is a must-see and at the top of your bucket list.

This is where the iconic shot was taken of 007 and M heading to ?Skyfall? (his ancestral house) to hide ?M?, played by the iconic Dame Judi Dench and Daniel ?Do I look like I give a damn? Craig as James Bond. It?s an unnamed road but the post code provided will lead you directly to it. Check the weather before heading there as Scotland is notorious in changing weather by the minute.

Just over an hour ?s drive northwest of that photo is the

Photo Courtesy: Pilar Grace and Harold Hechanova

location shooting of Hogwarts Express from the first Harry Potter film. The pay and display parking lot is directly opposite Loch Shiel and is owned by the National Trust of Scotland. Please arrive early as this place can be really busy and full of fans dressed up as Harry Potter and even the infamous Hagrid. I?m really amazed by their dedication to the film and it adds up to the magic of the place especially when you time your visit to the passing of the famous Jacobite steam train which operates twice daily between May and October.

on your way back to mainland Britain, the last stop is at Lock Lomond and the Trossachs, an hour ?s climb for those experience climbers out there. Only an hour away from Glasgow central, the post code provided will take you directly to the car park. Just cross the road up to the hill following the stream on your left side, continuing upwards and keep heading left and you will find the breath-taking view courtesy of Ben A?an, standing at just over 450m, it?s a little pointed hill with a fantastic view of Loch Katrine further left and Loch Achray on the right.

The train operates from Fort William, one in the morning and one in the afternoon so arrive early to avoid disappointment and please do check the train time table for more accurate schedule at the Glenfinnan Viaduct train times website. From Fort William, the train will pass by the viaduct at approximately 10:15am and 12:45pm, respectively, so picnic setup is in order to maximise the experience. You can also experience riding the famous train for as little £50 for an 85-mile journey. Again, check the website for schedule and price changes.

Sadly, I chose to climb this hill during a heavy snow so I borrowed a photo from a good friend and fellow hiker/photographer Engr. Andy Piojo of Glasgow who captured more Munros than I can imagine.

For the best viewing spot, from the car park, walk away from the road, following the signs towards the viaduct. Keep in mind the river or Loch Shiel will be on your right-hand side, and walk along the path in the direction of the arches. Take a left at the green post, following the signs for Viaduct Trail and Viewpoints and continue to go underneath the arches, where the path curves left. Go through the fence and follow the track up towards the rocky hill. The further you go up the more advantage you get of a good spot as many visitors will be cramming to take a photo of the magical moment.

Go higher than anyone else. That?s the trick. A good tripod and a remote camera will be an advantage for all photographers out there. Don?t forget to take some selfies under the arches too on your way back.

A two-hour drive further north from the viaduct is the lovely Eilean Donan Castle. Named after a saint, this castle is probably the most photographed castle in the whole of Scotland. This very picturesque castle was used in the 007 movie, ?The World is Not Enough?, as M16 headquarters, starring Pierce Brosnan, and in the 2008 movie ?Made of Honour ? starring the talented Patrick Dempsey. Built in the 1920?s from the old castle ruins, this fortress is a sure main tourist route to those who wish to visit another of Scotland?s gem - The Isle of Skye.

Ben A?an ? after your long trip or perhaps after a long rest

?Leave nothing but footprints, Take nothing but memories.?

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COM M UNITY NEWS

ENFi D Hol ds A GM & El ecti ons ot even a global pan dem ic can st op k in dr ed Filipin o spir it s f r om gat h er in g as t h e Eu r opean Net w or k of Filipin o Diaspor a UK (ENFiD UK) con ven ed f or it s An n u al Gen er al M em ber sh ip (AGM ) Assem bly last 12 Sept em ber 2021 at t h e Holiday In n Hot el in Ken sin gt on , Lon don .

in the face of many adversities by thriving despite the challenges and difficulties that may come their way. He likewise lauded the many Filipinos who have risen to positions of responsibility and influence in the UK, as well as the highly skilled and highly qualified Filipino professionals and workers who can compete with the best and the brightest of the world.

Founded in 2012, ENFiD UK has been in the forefront of protecting the welfare and well-being of Filipinos in the United Kingdom through activities that promote meaningful engagement for its members.

The second part of the AGM was the election of the ENFiD UK Board of Trustees by the members.

Subsequently, the trustees voted among themselves the officers for this term 2021-2023?.

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This year ?s assembly focused on the Filipino diaspora?s story of indomitable strength and resilience during this time of coronavirus. It was an opportunity to meet up, touch base, and converse with community thought leaders and movers.

Christian Estrada conducted the year-end report, highlighting ENFiD UK´ s achievements, community involvements and programmes as it was he who spearheaded the organisation since 2016.Councillor Myla Arceño, the first elected Filipino councillor of Stevenage, Hertfordshire, England from the Labour Party, graced the event as the Guest of Honour and Speaker. She shared her experiences and insights as a healthcare worker, community leader, and elected official during this pandemic, her very own story resonating with the theme of the event, ?A Story of Indomitable Strength and Resilience?. It was a proud moment for ENFiD UK to listen to one of its most illustrious members. Cllr. Myla has been an active member of the organisation and has served as a Trustee and Secretary of ENFiD UK, as well as a committee chairperson of ENFiD Europe.

Meanwhile, Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Antonio Lagdameo graced the occasion and inspired the attendees with his message of positivity and strength. He emphasised that the Filipinos redefined resilience

Vot ed as of f icer s ar e t h e f ollow in g: Ronald Sipat Ch air per son Leny Cordero-Dadulla Depu t y Ch air per son Arnulfo ?Arnold? De Francisca Vice-Ch air per son f or En glan d Linda Williams Vice-Ch air per son f or Wales Gieo Galvez Vice-Ch air per son f or Scot lan d

Au dit or

Hugh Dela Cruz

Ricardo Jr. Gacayan

Vice-Ch air per son f or Nor t h er n Ir elan d an d Assist an t Au dit or

Pu blic Relat ion s Of f icer Regin Dullas

Novo-Mar Ramos Head, You n g ENFiD (YENFiD) an d Spor t s Secr et ar y Leonila Bacatan-Dela Cruz Madelyn Dela Cruz-Richardson Head, M em ber sh ip Tr easu r er Janette Vicera Assist an t Tr easu r er an d Assist an t Head, M em ber sh ip Danilo Cantero

Ambassador Lagdameo administered the oath of the newly elected Board of Trustees and Officers.

- ENFiD UK England and Wales Charity Registration no. 1171618

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NOVEM BER 2021

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Li f e l essons I 'v e l earned i n my art studi o BYROBERTLABAYEN

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h e lock dow n m ade m e r e-discover m y passion f or ar t . Also, t h at lit t le voice in m y h ead.

We always have a conversation about what to paint and how to approach it.

When I make a mistake the voice yells, ?That was stupid!? Don?t worry, I?m never offended. Sometimes I tell him, ?You?re more stupid.? And he doesn?t answer back.

Here are other things we ?talk? about.

Ou r goal is t o be ar t ist ic, n ot per f ect .

My art style is not hyper-realism. But there are times when I would obsess over a detail or stroke that is not precise. The little voice would reassure, ?no one will even notice or pay attention to that detail. And you know what, imperfection is your style.?

I tend to believe the voice. Then I would realise, ?Why attempt to be perfect? Nothing in life is perfect.? I would also remember that part of the book Don?t Sweat the Small Stuff that says perfectionists are sad because nothing in the world seems good enough for them.

I would recall that my naif art style in the ?90s used to delight a lot of people. They loved the childlike attitude. I would also remember that I admire so many people who are charming and likable when they are not perfect.

You ?r e t h e on ly on e w h o k n ow s you r m ist ak e There are times when I cannot properly execute

what I had envisioned and I would feel frustrated. I would feel the same way when, after a speech, I?d realise that there were important things or nice jokes I forgot to say. In times like this, the voice would tell me, ?You?re the only one who knows about your original plan. If people are happy with the outcome anyway, why be disappointed??

I am usually relieved by such reminder because I believe that we don?t really know what was on the mind of people we admired. For example, we didn?t know what Kobe Bryant planned to do but we were so thrilled with what we saw. For sure, we have appreciated amazing doctors when we didn?t know their original dream was to become a movie star.

Don?t r u n w h en n o on e?s ch asin g you This is also an adage among magicians. It means trying to rush a move or perfect a sleight for fear of being caught when in reality, non-magicians don?t even suspect any deception in the move.

There are days when I feel stressed about being unproductive. I would say ?I could have finished this, I should have done that,? etc. Then my voice would speak, ?Some things are urgent. Your art is not. There is plenty of time ahead because you will have a long life.? Of course, no one is sure about how long they will live but I have to tell myself that.

I now believe that there is no need to frequently impress people. They?re not even thinking about me that much because they have so many other things to care about.

I am n ot su per ior t o an yon e When I was a young man in the competitive world of advertising, I believed in the motivation gurus who compelled us to become great. I was indoctrinated to think that every person has to become an eagle, not a duck.

Okay, I still believe in constant self-improvement.

That?s why at fifty I tried learning to play drums and at 59, I learned painting with watercolours. But my talents do not make me superior to, or happier than, people who are not even trying to do more.

They define their own happiness and their own success. I have no right to impose rules and standards on other people.

God in sist s on His plan s The orange vase in the picture is an example of this. I only planned to paint circles on the vase but gravity caused the paint to drip. So, I decided to just go with it. When accidents happen as I paint, I adjust or deviate from my blueprint. The results often come out nicer than I originally planned. The voice in my head would say ?God, ruined your plan because His plan is better.? Of course, it is just a guess because no one is 100% sure about how God works in our lives.

Wait? is the voice in my head actually God?s? I hope not because he calls me ?stupid.?

(Please check out or follow my art account on Instagram. robertlabayen_art Thank you!)

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NOVEM BER 2021

WELL-BEING CORNER

Wh y are h eal th y rel ati onsh i ps i mportant?

BYVIVAANDRADAO'FLYNN h en All Sou l?s Day r olls ar ou n d, I am f or ced t o r ef lect on m y bein g h u m an : t h at m y lif e is on ly t em por ar y. Gr ow in g u p in t h e Ph ilippin es, I r em em ber visit in g ou r f am ily m au soleu m year af t er year on All Sou l?s Day. I remember walking with hordes of people, riding in tricycles to visit beloved departed relatives. Every time I went there, I reflected on what I could have done better for them, how I could have improved our relationship. There were also times I reflected that my time on earth would come to an end and that would be my final resting place.

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No one lives forever. What makes life worthwhile are the relationships that we cultivate and nurture.

Wh y ar e h ealt h y r elat ion sh ips im por t an t ? Th ese ar e t h e f ive r eason s I t h ou gh t of : 1. Keep you gr ou n ded. To drive this point home, here?s an analogy of a tree. Imagine you?re like a tree, with your head in the clouds, relationships are your roots. In my case, I?m a creative person, a dreamer, my relationships with family and friends keep me grounded, rooted in earth. Relationships help you make sensible decisions and not veer off into the world as a foolhardy person. Relationships keep you humble and well balanced.

2. Give you f eedback you n eed t o im pr ove. With relationships, they tell you what you?re doing right and what you need to do better. They see your strengths and weaknesses. They help you learn from your past mistakes and evolve into a better person.

3. Gu ide, in spir e an d m ot ivat e you . With relationships, they give you strength and courage to help you go on especially when you?re stressed out and bogged down by day to day life. They believe in you.

They have faith in you. They help you remember how far you?ve come to be where you are now. They push you on further to continue your tasks efficiently.

4. Wh en you ?r e w ell con n ect ed, you ?r e able t o

ach ieve m or e at a f ast er pace. With relationships, they help you deliver what you need to do. What you?re weak at and what they?re strong in, you can pass the workload to them. Plus, they can achieve it quicker than you can, even better than you can when it?s their strength.

on earth is done, we want to be remembered for our good deeds after all.

5. Celebr at e lif e w it h you . They make you feel you?re not alone, that they?re there for you in your life?s journey. They?re witnesses to your growth. They celebrate milestones and everyday moments with you.

If you ever feel so low with heavy emotional baggage, they help you carry your burden and get you on your feet again. During sweet successes, they keep cheering you on and not make you rest on your laurels.

sunny skies and smiles

Relationships are a two-way street. Just as they are there for you to lean on: remember to also be there for them, especially when they need you most. Everyone wants love, everyone needs love, and everyone deserves love. We can survive whatever curve balls life throws at us when we share the love by establishing and nurturing our relationships every day. When our time

after the storm clears shake off your fears

I would like to share my poem entitled ?New Lif e?. look not so sullen when you see me gone

still dance before your eyes earthy soil blooms into new life spurts promises and eases strife somber black never suited your style glow like a rainbow does in exile

leave yesterday?s episode unpack your load winds of change blow directions unknown as a sweet soft sigh carries me home

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NOVEM BER 2021

FEATURE

FI LI PI NO SURNA M ES: Wh at You Sh oul d K now A bout I ts Ori gi ns (Part One) BYTODDLUCEROSALES, The Filipino Genealogist

h e Realit y: M ost Filipin os Ar e

T

Un aw ar e of Claver ia?s Su r n am e Decr ee If one looks through my Facebook pending friend invites, one will see a

whole slew of unaccepted invites from people whose last names are like my middle and last names. I have a personal rule in accepting invites from people who think they are my relatives: if I cannot see your name in my very extensive and documented family tree, then you are not my relative. Unfortunately for many Filipinos, having a similar family name is all that it takes to call someone "family". True to Filipino attitude towards family, it is always "the more, the merrier " and "the bigger, the better ". For most Filipinos, there is nothing wrong with accepting someone whose family name is like theirs since it is their belief that Photo Courtesy: Aarohi Achwal

today.

En t er Gover n or -Gen er al Nar ciso Claver ia y Zaldu a, Con de de M an ila Narciso Claveria y Zaldúa was born in Gerona, Spain on May 2, 1795. His father, Antonio de Claveria, was the Colonel of the Royal Artillery Corps as well as the Political and Military Governor of the city of Huesca, Aragon. Being in the military was a family

he saw and experienced when they arrived in what

tradition, and even his wife, Anna de Berroeta y

is now the Philippines. In his own writing, he

Villar, was from a military family, too. He followed in

mentioned the names of the chiefs and other

his father 's footsteps by entering the Military

important personages of the islands they visited: Si

Academy of Segovia when he was 14 years old. He

Oni, the ruler of the Suluan Island, and the

rose through the ranks and held several important

principales of Suluan namely Inaroyan, Limbas,

positions such as: Captain General of Navarre's

Bucad, Layong, Calipay, Badiao, Cabuling, and their

Tenth Military District, Chief of the General Staff of

paramount datu, Garas-Garas.

the Central Army, Captain General of Aragon's Sixth

Pigafetta also mentioned Si Oni?s brother, Rajah

Military District, and later the Governor, Captain

Kulambo, who was the ruler of Limasawa. When

General, and President of the Philippine colony.

they landed in the island of Sugbu, Pigafetta adds

all people who have the same name, so all CRUZES, Pr ior t o Claver ia?s Decr ee: Did Filipin os Have

more names of the rulers from the different

another.

Su r n am es?

settlements in and around Sugbu: the paramount

SANTOSES, REYESES, and more, are related to one

ruler of the island, Rajah Humabon and the chiefs This is the reality in the Philippines when it comes to

It has been generally accepted by the Spaniards that

surnames. When this writer made a simple, quick

before they ?discovered? the Philippine islands, the

survey among 100 respondents, the results showed

inhabitants were without last names. While many

that only 40% were familiar with Narciso Claveria,

historians have already written about the

and only 30% have even heard of the surname

flourishing civilization of pre-Hispanic Filipinos, very

decree. When asked about surnames, a resounding

few books have explored the question ?did Filipinos

90% believe that a) Filipinos with similar family

carry surnames before the Spaniards arrived??

names, regardless of where they are from, are

In his book Ferdinand Magellan: The Armada de

automatically related; b) that majority of Filipino

Maluco and the European Discovery of the

surnames are of Spanish origin, and this means

Philippines, author Danilo Madrid Gerona cites

Todd Lucero Sales is a professional genealogist

they have Spanish ancestors; and c) Filipinos have

ancient Chinese texts that mentioned Butuan and

based in the Philippines. With over 25 years of

always had their surnames and the only time that

its king. In this particular citation, it was stated that

genealogical experience, he has traced the family

surnames changed was when ?their ancestors had

the name of Butuan?s ruler was Kiling or Ch?i-ling

trees of Philippine Presidents and their First Ladies,

to hide from the Spaniards?.

and in one tribute mission to China, he was

many political families all over the Philippines like

One of the most lasting impacts of Spanish

accompanied by a local minister and an assistant

the Garcias, Davides, and Frascos of Cebu. He is also

colonization is the 1849 Claveria Surname decree.

whose names were Li-ihan and Gaminan.

the leading expert on Claveria?s surname decree

Not only did this systematize the use of family

It must be noted that this mention was made in a

names in the Philippines ? the first in Asia ? it also

record from the year 1003. In the same book, we

guaranteed that the Filipinos would forever be

can also make use of the contribution of the

identified with its former colonial masters. Very few

Venetian scholar and explorer Antonio Pigafetta,

He can be reached through

Filipinos bother to learn about Claveria?s decree. In

who accompanied the voyage of Ferdinand

inquiry@filipinogenealogy.com and a sampling of

fact, even fewer are aware, or even concerned,

Magellan and served as the chronicler of the entire

his published books may be found in his Amazon

about the impacts of this decree to our society

journey. In his journal, he wrote vividly about what

book page.

Cilaton, Ciguibucan, Cimaningha, Cimatichat, Cicanbul, Apanoaan, Tapan, Simiut, Si Buaia, Sisacai, and Maghalibe. And of course, we also add the names of Tupas, who was Humabon?s nephew and heir as well as Cilapulapu, known in history as the first Filipino to defy colonialism through his defeat of Ferdinand Magellan.

Abou t t h e Au t h or

and is currently pursuing his Master ?s degree in History with Claveria?s decree as the topic of his thesis.

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Tr avel & Tou r ism

PH remai ns A si a's top beach , di v e desti nati on

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h e Ph ilippin es w as on ce again h ailed as Asia's leadin g beach an d dive dest in at ion at t h e 2021 Wor ld Tr avel Aw ar ds (WTA).

This is the Philippines?fifth time to win Asia's Leading Beach Destination and the third time in a row since 2019 to win Asia?s Leading Dive Destination award.

Department of Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said this boosts the agency's efforts to keep the Philippines as a top-of-mind destination for foreign tourists as it awaits the resumption of international leisure travel to the country, consistent with its ?More Fun Awaits? global campaign. ?We are elated that the country?s pristine beaches and mesmerizing dive spots have once again been cited as the best in Asia by the prestigious 2021 World Travel Awards," she said Tuesday.

"We share this recognition with our tourism stakeholders, local government units, partner agencies, and all Filipinos who have been helping us promote our country?s attractions, products, and culture.?

Some of the country?s top beach destinations, such as Boracay in Aklan, Siargao in Surigao del Norte, and El Nido and Amanpulo in Palawan, have already

opened to domestic tourists and are ready to welcome foreign tourists once international borders reopen, the DOT said.

The agency also continues to identify potential destinations that may be developed for dive tourism.

Among the country's top diving spots are the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Palawan, Anilao in Batangas, Malapascua, and Moalboal in Cebu, Balicasag, Panglao, and Anda in Bohol, and Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro.

Anilao is open to domestic tourists from areas under general community quarantine and modified GCQ as long as they have a negative RT-PCR test result, proof of reservation, valid ID, and medical clearance.

The DOT said only MGCQ destinations are allowed to accomodate recreational divers, with the exception of Anilao, which is under GCQ. "Based on Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving health and safety protocols only MGCQ destinations allowed to accomodate recreational divers. GCQ only Anilao is allowed. All are still subject to local government unit restrictions/issuances," it said.

visiting the pristine dive spots in Camiguin and Balingoan, Talisayan, Medina, Magsaysay, and Gingoog in Misamis Oriental.

"I am very happy that we were given that citation. We have been pursuing dive tourism in Camiguin and Misamis Oriental and we are very happy to report that Region 10 has world-class dive sites," she said.

Camiguin is set to open its shores to tourists this coming October 25.

The WTA aims to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

The Philippines is still in the running for the following World categories of the 28th World Travel Awards: ·World?s Leading Beach Destination 2021: Philippines ·World?s Leading Dive Destination 2021: Philippines ·World?s Leading Island Destination 2021: Siargao, Philippines ·World?s Leading Tourist Attraction 2021: Intramuros, Philippines ·World?s Leading Tourist Board 2021: Philippines, Department of Tourism

Infographics courtesy of Dive Philippines In Mindanao, DOT Region 10 Director Marie Elaine Salvaña-Unchuan recommended

( Joyce An n L. Rocam or a/ PNA)

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COM M UNITY NEWS

FWA -UK A nnual General M eeti ng & El ecti on of Of f i cers f or 2021-2022! BYRAQUELSCRIVENS

T

h e Filipin o Wom en?s Associat ion UK h eld it s An n u al Gen er al M eet in g (AGM ) on Su n day, 19t h Sept em ber 2021 at Low er Hall Pr im r ose Hill Com m u n it y Associat ion , 29 Hopk in son?s Place, Fit zr oy Road, Lon don NW1 8TN.

The programme started with a prayer read by Raquel Scrivens, followed by the Chairman?s and Treasurer ?s reports and Q&As. The Chairman, Dulia Prado, reported all the 2020/21 Board?s accomplishments to the Association despite the challenging times brought about by the current Pandemic.

She also thanked everyone for entrusting in her the leadership of FWA-UK. She said ?best wishes to all the members of FWA-UK for their unwavering support and dedication to our cause and thanking them for the generosity of all the people ? our friends and donors ? that enabled us to extend timely assistance and support to our scholars and to all who needed our help. May we continue to do our best for FWA-UK?.

The second part of the programme proceeded with the election of the members of the Board who gathered and elected a new set of members. The election was conducted and supervised by Ex-Chair, Edna Kim. A group of people sitting at tables Description automatically generated with medium confidence

I?m looking forward to an even more fruitful and successful coming year ?.

Overall, it was a successful AGM following careful preparation by the organisers to which the Association extends their sincere gratitude.

Well done to all the officers, past and present, and to all the members who have continuously worked tirelessly to support the Association?s objectives.

Established in 1988, FWA-UK is a registered charity which continues to pursue its aim of raising awareness to the contribution of Filipino women to healthcare, science & technology, business & economics, politics & education, arts & entertainment both in the UK and globally.

Vice-Chair, Atty Crystal Dias said, ?Congratulations indeed MC@ Dulia Prado and welcome back incoming officers! It?s a well organised AGM and election. Onwards to the new term?.

Education and Scholarship Grants Chair, Clarita Richardson also said, ?Congratulations for your chairmanship this past year, I salute you with flying colors for a job well done and

M em ber sh ip & Per son al Developm en t Com m it t ee Ch air Linda Challis Ou t r each & Com m u n it y Af f air s Ch air Lydia Sumang Special Pr oject s Com m it t ee Ch air Wilma Lone Pu blicit y Com m it t ee Ch air / Tr u st ee Raquel Scrivens Au dit or / Tr u st ee

Execu t ive Boar d of 2021-2022: Ch air m an :

Amor Bayudan Tr u st ee

Dulia Prado Vice-Ch air m an , In t er n al Af f air s

Nieves Bates Tr u st ee

Atty Crystal Dias Vice-Ch air m an , Ext er n al Af f air s

Nanie Tamayo Tr u st ee

Arlene Morley Secr et ar y

Chelo Valencia Adviser

Ira Lehmann Assist an t Secr et ar y Imelda Pinto

After the election, the elected and current members of the Board held a special meeting and formed a new set of officers for 2021-2022.

Jeannette Thomson

Tr easu r er Patricia Shah Assist an t Tr easu r er Adelle Beltran Edu cat ion & Sch olar sh ip Gr an t s Com m it t ee Ch air Clarita Richardson Fu n dr aisin g Com m it t ee Ch air / Tr u st ee

Nenita Garrad Adviser Remy Reyes Raquel Scrivens Publicity Committee www.fwa-uk.com Follow Us: Facebook www.facebook.com/FilipinoWomensAssociationUK Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fwauk/

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