Lately, due to the rapid change in weather or temperature (usually mornings are hot and humid while afternoons and occasional evenings become rain-drenched) many people suffer from colds, headache and flu. Some of the UST fathers have coughs while others have intensified their vitamin intakes, and still others have already gone to see their medics for treatment of colds.
Yesterday sunday morning, I was already preparing myself to join the UST fathers in going to Sto. Domingo, Q.C., in the afternoon for the annual La Naval procession. I don't remember tiring myself too much as I ironed the habit I will be using for the occasion. As I was checking the preparations for lunch at the refectory, I suddenly felt some minor headache with a subsequent feeling of restlessness. I was telling myself "Oh my God, not at this time..." since I very well knew that those are, as far as I'm concerned, the signs that I will have a cold, coughs and fever (in that order). All throughout lunchtime, I kept praying that the Good Lord spare me of them since I wanted so much to be part of the yearly procession in Sto. Domingo... As it turned out, by 3pm my body temperature rose to 37.9 celsius (may senat na!). Until, finally after much thought about going or not, I decided not to go since during the procession it might rain, and I might develop pneumonia (which could be far worse).
So I stayed behind but a bit sad that I was not able to go there. All throughout the night, I was not able to sleep well. It was already past midnight when I went down and called on the info guard that he requests one of the roaming guards to buy me medicine at the Hospital pharmacy. After I took the medicine, I was able to sleep but still feeling hot with fever.
This morning I likewise was not able to join the community for the scheduled discussion on the "planificatio". I hope the meeting turned out to be fruitful and informative.
This afternoon, I decided to go to Isetann-Recto to have a full body massage from the so-called certified and duly-licenced blind group (I don't actually know the name of the group) located at the top floor, besides the moviehouses. I felt relieved afterwards and my fever went down probably since during the massage I was perspiring a lot. Hopefully my temperature will remain at the normal level so that tomorrow as I rest tonight, I can finally resume my daily routine. Maraming salamat po, Lord!
Monday, October 10, 2005
Friday, May 06, 2005
Who can I turn to?
Since March 2005, I have been receiving calls from parents, relatives and friends of applicants who failed in their entrance exams for admission in UST, mostly coming from those who would want to take up college course at the Faculty of Engineering. In my capacity as the faculty regent, I entertain these "requests" though I made it clear to everyone that I am not in a position to give them assurance that they will eventually be admitted. Initially I would recommend that they (the applicants) write a letter of reconsideration addressed to the Dean of the faculty (yikes! my eyebrows meet whenever I would in some cases encounter letters addressed to me though I already made it clear to them that the faculty dean is the proper authority who will attend to these applications). Nevertheless, I forward the communications to the dean personally; if she's not present, to the faculty secretary for submission to the dean as soon as she arrives.
The dean, on her part, once told me that she welcomes applicants who ask for reconsideration. During the initial interview, she usually requires them to submit to her at least a true copy of their Form 138 (high school report card) since, she said, it is possible that an above-average applicant may suffer from mental blockage because of intense nervousness or excitement during the exams which in turn could derail their passing the tests. Thus, according to her, the results of the entrance exams may not be the only standard in measuring the intellectual aptitude of the candidate, and/or for inscription on a course of their choice. Meanwhile, the final grades on the form 138 specifically on those subjects related to the desired course should be given close attention and evaluated. This procedure she said only happens for applicants who failed in the entrance tests. Subsequently, if the grades are high or the evaluation is positive, the candidate will most likely be given the green light to enroll at the faculty.
All applicants for reconsideration, together with their parents, friends and those who accompany them are well informed of the above procedure, and the dean makes it very clear to them of the requirements, university policies and documents to be submitted during their initial visits at the office. However, sometimes isolated instances could still occur like the case of parents who could be so insistent and "makulit", and whose "perseverance" can become really annoying. One parent, for example, called me up very late last night inquiring about the status of his son's application. I did not feel exactly bad in receiving his call though I was already in bed and about to enjoy my first minutes of sleep. Sure I entertained him with all his implorings, pambobolas, etc. and I thanked God I did not lose my patience. Suddenly I realized that I'm becoming so popular and a much sought after celebrity during summertime.
Of course I perfectly understand their situation and I'm happy to be of service to them and provide assistance as far as I can. I'm aware that if I'm in their shoes I would probably do the same. But I think, and am speaking for myself, that requesting assistance should also be done within ethical confines, and people professionally abide by what has been made clear to them and/or mutually agreed upon during such visits. Let's face it - we cannot fit and dump all people in the same corner. Patience and openness when abused sometimes can lead to annoyance and antagonism by reason of one's tenacious persistence in how things should be done this or that way to the exclusion of others.
The dean, on her part, once told me that she welcomes applicants who ask for reconsideration. During the initial interview, she usually requires them to submit to her at least a true copy of their Form 138 (high school report card) since, she said, it is possible that an above-average applicant may suffer from mental blockage because of intense nervousness or excitement during the exams which in turn could derail their passing the tests. Thus, according to her, the results of the entrance exams may not be the only standard in measuring the intellectual aptitude of the candidate, and/or for inscription on a course of their choice. Meanwhile, the final grades on the form 138 specifically on those subjects related to the desired course should be given close attention and evaluated. This procedure she said only happens for applicants who failed in the entrance tests. Subsequently, if the grades are high or the evaluation is positive, the candidate will most likely be given the green light to enroll at the faculty.
All applicants for reconsideration, together with their parents, friends and those who accompany them are well informed of the above procedure, and the dean makes it very clear to them of the requirements, university policies and documents to be submitted during their initial visits at the office. However, sometimes isolated instances could still occur like the case of parents who could be so insistent and "makulit", and whose "perseverance" can become really annoying. One parent, for example, called me up very late last night inquiring about the status of his son's application. I did not feel exactly bad in receiving his call though I was already in bed and about to enjoy my first minutes of sleep. Sure I entertained him with all his implorings, pambobolas, etc. and I thanked God I did not lose my patience. Suddenly I realized that I'm becoming so popular and a much sought after celebrity during summertime.
Of course I perfectly understand their situation and I'm happy to be of service to them and provide assistance as far as I can. I'm aware that if I'm in their shoes I would probably do the same. But I think, and am speaking for myself, that requesting assistance should also be done within ethical confines, and people professionally abide by what has been made clear to them and/or mutually agreed upon during such visits. Let's face it - we cannot fit and dump all people in the same corner. Patience and openness when abused sometimes can lead to annoyance and antagonism by reason of one's tenacious persistence in how things should be done this or that way to the exclusion of others.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Runaway bride...
DULUTH, Ga. - The hunt for Jennifer Wilbanks consumed this tight-knit town when she went missing four days before her wedding. Despite a safe return Saturday welcomed by family and close friends, some residents of this Atlanta suburb feel betrayed by what turned out to be an elaborate hoax. Volunteers searched woods and alleys, crawled in sewage drains and stayed up late looking for the 32-year-old local woman who was picked up late Friday by police after a cross-country bus trip that took her through Las Vegas, Nev., to Albuquerque, N.M.
She initially told authorities that she had been abducted while jogging, but eventually admitted her kidnapping story was fabricated and she had run away because she had cold feet. When Duluth residents learned the truth, they thanked God Wilbanks was safe — then shook their heads at her act. "I'm glad that she's alive and OK, but it was a dirty trick," said Louise McCoy, waiting in line at the Duluth post office Saturday — the same day Wilbanks was supposed to be married in a lavish ceremony that included 14 bridesmaids and 14 groomsmen.
Police said there would be no criminal charges, but Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter said he still had some questions. "A tremendous amount of law enforcement resources was used in what turned out to be a hoax," Porter told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for Sunday's editions. More than 100 officers led a search that involved several hundred volunteers, including many wedding guests and members of the bridal party. Porter said based on the information he had received, falsely reporting a crime is the only charge that would fit Wilbanks' case. The misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. "It is premature to talk about criminal charges," Porter said. "But if we learn that this was a premeditated act, that would push me closer to pressing charges."
A Wisconsin college student who faked her own abduction last year and turned up curled in a fetal position in a marsh was ordered to repay police at least $9,000 for their search. She pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of obstructing officers and was given three years' probation.
Albuquerque Police Chief Ray Schultz said Wilbanks was "scared and concerned about her impending marriage and decided she needed some time alone." Wilbanks returned Saturday by plane to Atlanta, where she was picked up in a squad car on the tarmac — with a towel covering her head — to avoid the media. There were no family members at the airport to greet her, but her stepfather and an uncle had flown to Albuquerque to escort her home, authorities said. Wilbanks decided to call her fiance and police with the story about the kidnapping when she found herself broke in Albuquerque, according to authorities.
In her 911 call, Wilbanks sounds frantic and confused, telling an operator she was kidnapped from Atlanta by a man and a woman in their 40s who were driving a blue van. Through sobs, she tells the dispatcher they had a small handgun. At one point, the operator asks if Wilbanks knows what direction her captors went after dropping her off in Albuquerque. "I have no idea. I don't even know where I am," she says. Moments after the word came Saturday that Wilbanks fled town and hadn't been kidnapped, most of the police who'd been guarding her house since Tuesday night pulled away. Fliers with Wilbanks' picture were pulled down from local store windows. Some residents removed yellow ribbons they'd put on their mailboxes. Many were visibly angry Saturday.
"There should be some responsibility for all this expense to the police," said Jo Cripps, eating boiled crawfish at a downtown Cajun restaurant. "Certainly she owes an apology to all the people who came out and volunteered." Another resident, Amanda Melby, called the disappearance "a disgrace." But some marriage counselors said running away was an extreme but understandable reaction to the stress of the wedding and the fear of disappointing others by backing out. "Sometimes it's like being stuck in a river getting whisked over a waterfall," said Dr. Charles Raison, a psychiatrist and Emory University instructor. "The current is so strong, you can't fight it."
After police reported the hoax, the mood outside Wilbanks' home went from jubilant to somber. Family members ducked inside and the blinds were drawn. They later expressed relief that she was safe. "Sure, we were all disappointed, maybe a little embarrassed, but you know what, if you remember all the interviews yesterday we were praying, 'At this point let her be a runaway bride,'" said the Rev. Alan Jones, who was to perform the wedding. "So God was faithful. Jennifer's alive and we're all thankful for that."
---Any comments on this? Thank you. God bless...
She initially told authorities that she had been abducted while jogging, but eventually admitted her kidnapping story was fabricated and she had run away because she had cold feet. When Duluth residents learned the truth, they thanked God Wilbanks was safe — then shook their heads at her act. "I'm glad that she's alive and OK, but it was a dirty trick," said Louise McCoy, waiting in line at the Duluth post office Saturday — the same day Wilbanks was supposed to be married in a lavish ceremony that included 14 bridesmaids and 14 groomsmen.
Police said there would be no criminal charges, but Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter said he still had some questions. "A tremendous amount of law enforcement resources was used in what turned out to be a hoax," Porter told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for Sunday's editions. More than 100 officers led a search that involved several hundred volunteers, including many wedding guests and members of the bridal party. Porter said based on the information he had received, falsely reporting a crime is the only charge that would fit Wilbanks' case. The misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. "It is premature to talk about criminal charges," Porter said. "But if we learn that this was a premeditated act, that would push me closer to pressing charges."
A Wisconsin college student who faked her own abduction last year and turned up curled in a fetal position in a marsh was ordered to repay police at least $9,000 for their search. She pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of obstructing officers and was given three years' probation.
Albuquerque Police Chief Ray Schultz said Wilbanks was "scared and concerned about her impending marriage and decided she needed some time alone." Wilbanks returned Saturday by plane to Atlanta, where she was picked up in a squad car on the tarmac — with a towel covering her head — to avoid the media. There were no family members at the airport to greet her, but her stepfather and an uncle had flown to Albuquerque to escort her home, authorities said. Wilbanks decided to call her fiance and police with the story about the kidnapping when she found herself broke in Albuquerque, according to authorities.
In her 911 call, Wilbanks sounds frantic and confused, telling an operator she was kidnapped from Atlanta by a man and a woman in their 40s who were driving a blue van. Through sobs, she tells the dispatcher they had a small handgun. At one point, the operator asks if Wilbanks knows what direction her captors went after dropping her off in Albuquerque. "I have no idea. I don't even know where I am," she says. Moments after the word came Saturday that Wilbanks fled town and hadn't been kidnapped, most of the police who'd been guarding her house since Tuesday night pulled away. Fliers with Wilbanks' picture were pulled down from local store windows. Some residents removed yellow ribbons they'd put on their mailboxes. Many were visibly angry Saturday.
"There should be some responsibility for all this expense to the police," said Jo Cripps, eating boiled crawfish at a downtown Cajun restaurant. "Certainly she owes an apology to all the people who came out and volunteered." Another resident, Amanda Melby, called the disappearance "a disgrace." But some marriage counselors said running away was an extreme but understandable reaction to the stress of the wedding and the fear of disappointing others by backing out. "Sometimes it's like being stuck in a river getting whisked over a waterfall," said Dr. Charles Raison, a psychiatrist and Emory University instructor. "The current is so strong, you can't fight it."
After police reported the hoax, the mood outside Wilbanks' home went from jubilant to somber. Family members ducked inside and the blinds were drawn. They later expressed relief that she was safe. "Sure, we were all disappointed, maybe a little embarrassed, but you know what, if you remember all the interviews yesterday we were praying, 'At this point let her be a runaway bride,'" said the Rev. Alan Jones, who was to perform the wedding. "So God was faithful. Jennifer's alive and we're all thankful for that."
---Any comments on this? Thank you. God bless...
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
Till we meet again in heaven...
Yesterday afternoon, we had a concelebrated funeral mass at the UST Parish Chapel in loving memory of our dearly beloved Karol Wojtyla, a.k.a. Pope John Paul II who passed away in the bossom of the Lord last saturday, as announced by the Vatican News Agency, in Rome. In his homily, Fr. Roland de la Rosa, OP, shared his fond memories of the Pontiff's two visits at the University, tinged with humor, inspiration and nostalgia. Fr. Tamerlane Lana, OP, the incumbent Rector of the University and main celebrant, also delivered a touching speech before giving the final blessing.
At the end of the celebration, everyone (well, almost everyone I guess...) placed a white rose at the foot of JPII's framed picture at the altar as a sign of reverence and love for him. Each one was also given a white candle to light on, to celebrate JPII's entrance into the Divine Light of heavenly bliss, and everyone joined the choir in joyfully singing "Tell the world of his love" the theme song of the 1995 World Youth Day in Manila, and of which in some way many believe was the rallying cry of his pontificate and pastoral visits.
Just an observation - it could have been much better if the celebration had been done at the UST grandstand... well of course, the very large number of participants who graced the occasion was unexpected, in fact the chapel was filled to the brim (rated-SRO) and there were many people along the outlying premises who have not received roses and/or candles.
This is understandable since we all love our dearly beloved Pope, but how I wish it could have been done at the grandstand; the lighted candles would create a more touching or I should say "remembering" atmosphere since it was precisely there at the grandstand where the multitude saw JPII in person as they joyously chanted "John Paul II, we love you" with occasional shouts of "totus tuus". JPII on his part joined in the chanting while he waved at the crowd saying "John Paul II, he loves you."
Karol Wojtyla... John Paul II... a man of the LIGHT (remember the Mysteries of the Light?), the untiring servant and apostle of the Lord, "God's athlete" who went out in search of the Father's prodigal children so that he may tell them of His love - you have at last touched the shores of life in guiding the SHIP in its long and ardous journey... we have reached a stopover destination and this time, the MASTER tells you that your being the Captain of the SHIP is over, another will take your place and guide the SHIP to its next destination... Surely, HE will amply reward you for a job well done!
You have completed your sixth day of work with much fruit! As you rest from your labors on the seventh, may you rest happily and eternally with God!... at last, my brother, you're home...!! Rest assured - you don't have to look back and see whether what you did was good... we only have to look foward in hope with what you have taught and showed us... Pray dear father, that we who are still fighting for LOVE's many battles in this valley of tears may grow more and more courageous, zealous and stronger in faith as we follow the Lord in the way of holiness everyday...
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
... till we meet again... in heaven....
At the end of the celebration, everyone (well, almost everyone I guess...) placed a white rose at the foot of JPII's framed picture at the altar as a sign of reverence and love for him. Each one was also given a white candle to light on, to celebrate JPII's entrance into the Divine Light of heavenly bliss, and everyone joined the choir in joyfully singing "Tell the world of his love" the theme song of the 1995 World Youth Day in Manila, and of which in some way many believe was the rallying cry of his pontificate and pastoral visits.
Just an observation - it could have been much better if the celebration had been done at the UST grandstand... well of course, the very large number of participants who graced the occasion was unexpected, in fact the chapel was filled to the brim (rated-SRO) and there were many people along the outlying premises who have not received roses and/or candles.
This is understandable since we all love our dearly beloved Pope, but how I wish it could have been done at the grandstand; the lighted candles would create a more touching or I should say "remembering" atmosphere since it was precisely there at the grandstand where the multitude saw JPII in person as they joyously chanted "John Paul II, we love you" with occasional shouts of "totus tuus". JPII on his part joined in the chanting while he waved at the crowd saying "John Paul II, he loves you."
Karol Wojtyla... John Paul II... a man of the LIGHT (remember the Mysteries of the Light?), the untiring servant and apostle of the Lord, "God's athlete" who went out in search of the Father's prodigal children so that he may tell them of His love - you have at last touched the shores of life in guiding the SHIP in its long and ardous journey... we have reached a stopover destination and this time, the MASTER tells you that your being the Captain of the SHIP is over, another will take your place and guide the SHIP to its next destination... Surely, HE will amply reward you for a job well done!
You have completed your sixth day of work with much fruit! As you rest from your labors on the seventh, may you rest happily and eternally with God!... at last, my brother, you're home...!! Rest assured - you don't have to look back and see whether what you did was good... we only have to look foward in hope with what you have taught and showed us... Pray dear father, that we who are still fighting for LOVE's many battles in this valley of tears may grow more and more courageous, zealous and stronger in faith as we follow the Lord in the way of holiness everyday...
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
... till we meet again... in heaven....
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Compassion unfulfilled
Yesterday afternoon, I had another encounter with someone in need. This middle-aged woman was sitting at the pavement stairs of the parish chapel when I first saw her. She did not recognize me as a priest at first since I was only wearing a white t-shirt. After a while, a seminarian approached me and used the title "father" during our conversation. And that upon learning that I was a priest did she come to me and asked for financial assistance. Initially I requested her to seek help at the parish office where they provide social services. However she told me they could not provide her with the amount she needs since she is not a parishioner. I was surprised to hear this. She was saying many things about her family problems until I asked her to wait awhile and try once more at the parish office with the help of the info guard. I left to resume with my work without knowing whether the parish office was able to help her.
Deep inside me however, as I was at my office I was burning with compassion for her wondering if she was able to secure the help she needs, as well as my being unable to help her personally at that moment. I could not get her off my thoughts.
This is precisely the reason why the parish office offers social services for the poor and needy. Those who come and seek assistance are enjoined to go there instead of "begging" at the door of the chapel. There were instances in the past where problems occurred on this (e.g., theft, arguments and fights, fraud, etc.) that is why the parish pastoral council decided to put up these services. Of course, on their own anyone can personally help our needy brothers and sisters.
Deep inside me however, as I was at my office I was burning with compassion for her wondering if she was able to secure the help she needs, as well as my being unable to help her personally at that moment. I could not get her off my thoughts.
This is precisely the reason why the parish office offers social services for the poor and needy. Those who come and seek assistance are enjoined to go there instead of "begging" at the door of the chapel. There were instances in the past where problems occurred on this (e.g., theft, arguments and fights, fraud, etc.) that is why the parish pastoral council decided to put up these services. Of course, on their own anyone can personally help our needy brothers and sisters.
Monday, March 21, 2005
UST Fathers' Annual Retreat
The Holy Week is usually the time the Dominican Fathers at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila, spend their communal retreat. The horarium is as follows:
Holy Monday (March 21, 2005)
6:15 am - Conventual Mass/ Morning Prayers
9:00 am - Office of Readings/Introduction (Fr. Vicente Cajilig, OP)
3:15 pm - Talk "Religious and Theological Endeavors: Harvesting the Fruits" (Speaker: Fr. P. Pabillo)
6:15 pm - Talk "Life of Simplicity: Condition for Effective Ministry"(Speaker: Fr. P. Pabillo)
Evening Prayers
Holy Tuesday (March 22)
6:15 am - Conventual Mass/ Morning Prayers
9:00 am - Talk "Notes on Community Building from the 2004 General Chapter" (Speaker: Fr. Edmund Nantes, OP)
3:15 pm - Talk "Strengthening Brotherhood through Affirming Brotherhood" (Speaker: Fr. Edmund Nantes, OP)
6:45 pm - Rosary/Office of Readings/Evening Prayers
Holy Wednesday (March 23)
6:15 am - Conventual Mass/ Morning Prayers
9:00 am - Talk "Builders among the Laity/Religious: Assets of the Church" (Speaker: Mr. E. Lopez, EWTN)
3:15 pm - Rite of Reconciliation/Confession (c/o Fr. Boy Luanzon, OP)
6:45 pm - Rosary/Office of Readings/Evening Prayers
Maundy Thursday (March 24)
6:30 am - Office of Readings/ Morning Prayers
5:00 pm - Commemoration of the Lord's Supper (UST Grandstand)
Good Friday (March 25)
1:00 pm - Seven Last Words
3:00 pm - Veneration of the Cross/Procession
Black Saturday (March 26)
6:30 am - Office of Readings/Morning Prayers/ Apostolic Blessing
10:00 pm - Easter Vigil Service
Kindly note the following:
- conventual masses are celebrated at the UST Chapel.
- other communal sessions at the 3rd floor, private Oratory.
Please be guided accordingly. Thank you.
Holy Monday (March 21, 2005)
6:15 am - Conventual Mass/ Morning Prayers
9:00 am - Office of Readings/Introduction (Fr. Vicente Cajilig, OP)
3:15 pm - Talk "Religious and Theological Endeavors: Harvesting the Fruits" (Speaker: Fr. P. Pabillo)
6:15 pm - Talk "Life of Simplicity: Condition for Effective Ministry"(Speaker: Fr. P. Pabillo)
Evening Prayers
Holy Tuesday (March 22)
6:15 am - Conventual Mass/ Morning Prayers
9:00 am - Talk "Notes on Community Building from the 2004 General Chapter" (Speaker: Fr. Edmund Nantes, OP)
3:15 pm - Talk "Strengthening Brotherhood through Affirming Brotherhood" (Speaker: Fr. Edmund Nantes, OP)
6:45 pm - Rosary/Office of Readings/Evening Prayers
Holy Wednesday (March 23)
6:15 am - Conventual Mass/ Morning Prayers
9:00 am - Talk "Builders among the Laity/Religious: Assets of the Church" (Speaker: Mr. E. Lopez, EWTN)
3:15 pm - Rite of Reconciliation/Confession (c/o Fr. Boy Luanzon, OP)
6:45 pm - Rosary/Office of Readings/Evening Prayers
Maundy Thursday (March 24)
6:30 am - Office of Readings/ Morning Prayers
5:00 pm - Commemoration of the Lord's Supper (UST Grandstand)
Good Friday (March 25)
1:00 pm - Seven Last Words
3:00 pm - Veneration of the Cross/Procession
Black Saturday (March 26)
6:30 am - Office of Readings/Morning Prayers/ Apostolic Blessing
10:00 pm - Easter Vigil Service
Kindly note the following:
- conventual masses are celebrated at the UST Chapel.
- other communal sessions at the 3rd floor, private Oratory.
Please be guided accordingly. Thank you.
Thursday, March 03, 2005
A Million Dollar Baby
Last night after dinner, we hurriedly went to SM-Manila to watch a movie entitled "A Million Dollar Baby" which garnered three or four(?) awards (Best Picture, Director, Actress and Supporting Actor) during the last Oscar's. We arrived just in time to see it since we left after 9:00 pm; the last full show started at around 9:35 pm and we lodged ourselves at the balcony area.
The movie, in my opinion, really deserves the Best Picture award - the scenes were clear, the lights and sounds are ok, there were no stray actions, and the lines were audible and down to earth. The characters were extraordinarily portrayed by a powerful cast of actors in the likes of Clint Eastwood (best director), Hilary Swank (best actress) and Morgan Freeman (best supporting actor).
The story is ok though I find it a bit poignant at the end. The focus is on self-sacrifice and belief in one's capacities, courage in the face of difficulties, dreams realized through hard work and dishonest dealings. Moreover, there is a moral issue at the culminating part of the story - the removal of the tubes and injection on a patient/boxer to alleviate her suffering (and of course, to stop the soaring medical expenses) which is equivalent to a "direct killing".
I should have seen this movie in the afternoon rather than nightime - actually it did not help me relax and prepare myself for a good night sleep...hmmm...
The movie, in my opinion, really deserves the Best Picture award - the scenes were clear, the lights and sounds are ok, there were no stray actions, and the lines were audible and down to earth. The characters were extraordinarily portrayed by a powerful cast of actors in the likes of Clint Eastwood (best director), Hilary Swank (best actress) and Morgan Freeman (best supporting actor).
The story is ok though I find it a bit poignant at the end. The focus is on self-sacrifice and belief in one's capacities, courage in the face of difficulties, dreams realized through hard work and dishonest dealings. Moreover, there is a moral issue at the culminating part of the story - the removal of the tubes and injection on a patient/boxer to alleviate her suffering (and of course, to stop the soaring medical expenses) which is equivalent to a "direct killing".
I should have seen this movie in the afternoon rather than nightime - actually it did not help me relax and prepare myself for a good night sleep...hmmm...
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
A beautiful way of saying goodbye...
Yesterday afternoon, we had an unexpected "despedida" party at the Faculty of Engineering in honor and in gratitude to Maam Belen Pereira who will be retiring at the end of this school year after more than 40 (tama ba 'to, I stand to be corrected...) years of committed service, and Engr. Fe Tabamo who will be leaving for Spain also at the end of this school year to attend to her daughter's children there.
A very lovely and touching party! I arrived at the Physic lab where the celebrants were enjoying themselves - faculty members as well as students singing and rendering songs for the two retirees. Upon arriving and greeting those present, I sat beside Maam Belen all throughout the affair conversing with her. I asked her of her plans after life in UST and she answered none, that is why she said she is hopeful that the administration will still allow her to teach. She further told me several faculty members who are now her colleagues were her former students, and they reminisced those days together in fun and laughter.
On her part, Engr. Fe, I was told, could not hold back her tears as those around her have rendered their numbers. She will surely miss the company of her friends, colleagues and students, the whole engineering faculty and life in UST as well. I hope she will be able to adjust herself soonest in her new environment in Spain, and of course learn to speak spanish fluently since her grandaughters could probably communicate with her only in spanish.
At the end, Maam Belen requested everyone to join her in thanksgiving prayer - in profound and humble gratitude to the Lord for those unforgettable years and everything given as graces and gifts especially of life experiences shared together in the classroom and at the Faculty; for the gift of education she said was privileged to contribute/impart on her students; for friendship with colleagues with whom she had learned so much as a person and as a professional, and they in turn hopefully could have learned from her.
Well, I should say that heroes never die, they just fade away. To Maam Belen and Engr. Fe, thank you very much for being a part of us! and good luck as you begin another chapter/adventure in your life... do not forget us when you are already in your kingdoms! ....three cheers!
A very lovely and touching party! I arrived at the Physic lab where the celebrants were enjoying themselves - faculty members as well as students singing and rendering songs for the two retirees. Upon arriving and greeting those present, I sat beside Maam Belen all throughout the affair conversing with her. I asked her of her plans after life in UST and she answered none, that is why she said she is hopeful that the administration will still allow her to teach. She further told me several faculty members who are now her colleagues were her former students, and they reminisced those days together in fun and laughter.
On her part, Engr. Fe, I was told, could not hold back her tears as those around her have rendered their numbers. She will surely miss the company of her friends, colleagues and students, the whole engineering faculty and life in UST as well. I hope she will be able to adjust herself soonest in her new environment in Spain, and of course learn to speak spanish fluently since her grandaughters could probably communicate with her only in spanish.
At the end, Maam Belen requested everyone to join her in thanksgiving prayer - in profound and humble gratitude to the Lord for those unforgettable years and everything given as graces and gifts especially of life experiences shared together in the classroom and at the Faculty; for the gift of education she said was privileged to contribute/impart on her students; for friendship with colleagues with whom she had learned so much as a person and as a professional, and they in turn hopefully could have learned from her.
Well, I should say that heroes never die, they just fade away. To Maam Belen and Engr. Fe, thank you very much for being a part of us! and good luck as you begin another chapter/adventure in your life... do not forget us when you are already in your kingdoms! ....three cheers!
Saturday, February 26, 2005
TOP Mass
This morning, at 6:30am, I celebrated the Third Order of Preachers (TOP) Mass with members of the Confraternity of Diocesan Priests and Seminarians, UST Central Seminary Chapter at the Oratory. After the homily, as the Director of the Confraternity I presided over the rite of admission of one postulant, the vestition of a new novice and the simple/temporary profession of six members of the same confraternity.
It was rather a joyous celebration at the same time exhilarating on my part and Fr. Boy Luanzon, OP, who concelebrated with me, to see these young diocesan seminarians enjoying themselves wearing the religious habit (complete with black cape and cappuce) of our holy and venerable Founder, St. Dominic de Guzman. The other members of the confraternity were also present and witnessed the ceremony.
Before giving the final blessing, Fray Emmanuel Quintos OP (Tuguegarao), the incumbent prior of the confraternity, was effusive in his words of gratitude to everyone for the fraternal support and camaraderie extended to him as prior, and in a most special way to the Director, Fr. Boy, and the members of the council. He also informed the assembly that the date for the election of the new Prior (and perhaps other officials) will be announced soonest. After the Mass, we proceeded to the Seminary refectory for breakfast (fraternal agape).
I hope and pray that each member of the Confraternity will grow more and more in the love of the Lord as they move on in their seminary formation following the footsteps of St. Dominic whose life, ideals and mission they have embraced wholeheartedly in the service of the whole people of God. God bless them...
It was rather a joyous celebration at the same time exhilarating on my part and Fr. Boy Luanzon, OP, who concelebrated with me, to see these young diocesan seminarians enjoying themselves wearing the religious habit (complete with black cape and cappuce) of our holy and venerable Founder, St. Dominic de Guzman. The other members of the confraternity were also present and witnessed the ceremony.
Before giving the final blessing, Fray Emmanuel Quintos OP (Tuguegarao), the incumbent prior of the confraternity, was effusive in his words of gratitude to everyone for the fraternal support and camaraderie extended to him as prior, and in a most special way to the Director, Fr. Boy, and the members of the council. He also informed the assembly that the date for the election of the new Prior (and perhaps other officials) will be announced soonest. After the Mass, we proceeded to the Seminary refectory for breakfast (fraternal agape).
I hope and pray that each member of the Confraternity will grow more and more in the love of the Lord as they move on in their seminary formation following the footsteps of St. Dominic whose life, ideals and mission they have embraced wholeheartedly in the service of the whole people of God. God bless them...
Friday, February 25, 2005
Bowling encounter
We just came from a bowling tournament at Robinson's Place Ermita, I mean, the four of us - Frs. Ernie, Ching, Boy and myself. Fr. Boy and I lost all three games and the two of us divided the charges since at the start of the third round, it was decided that the group who wins that "deciding" game will not pay. Afterwards we ate lunch at Max's restaurant and enjoyed the food at our hearts' content. After that we returned to UST for a well-deserved rest from the activities.
It was quite an enjoyable day for us as we continually exchanged "bromas" with lots of fun and laughter- haha, even doing it in spanish! And I thank God wholeheartedly for this wonderful day in the company of my brothers.
God thank you... and to my brother-priests, God bless you.
It was quite an enjoyable day for us as we continually exchanged "bromas" with lots of fun and laughter- haha, even doing it in spanish! And I thank God wholeheartedly for this wonderful day in the company of my brothers.
God thank you... and to my brother-priests, God bless you.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Sins vs Problems
As a priest who occasionally administer the sacrament of reconciliation to our parishioners according to an assigned schedule, I have observed that whenever people come to me to confess their sins, many would bring in their (personal and communal) problems instead of asking forgiveness for their sins. I could see that what they need is, at least, some counsel or advice that could help them resolve present or lingering difficulties. Of course, there are instances where sins are tied with problems and it could be probable that such problems could be the cause why the person commits the sin.
Nonetheless, when the confessee starts to pour out his/her problems in the confessional box, I politely tell them that the proper forum for the resolution of problems is counselling (sessions) and not the sacrament of reconciliation. Subsequently I request them to see a priest-counsellor with whom they could talk to, but before this, I ask them if they have sins to confess. In most cases, they decline and say "no" which means they're just there in need of someone who can help them.
Sins forgiven are proper of sacramental confession in the same way that problems to be resolved are proper of guidance and counselling.
Nonetheless, when the confessee starts to pour out his/her problems in the confessional box, I politely tell them that the proper forum for the resolution of problems is counselling (sessions) and not the sacrament of reconciliation. Subsequently I request them to see a priest-counsellor with whom they could talk to, but before this, I ask them if they have sins to confess. In most cases, they decline and say "no" which means they're just there in need of someone who can help them.
Sins forgiven are proper of sacramental confession in the same way that problems to be resolved are proper of guidance and counselling.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
UST Engineering Week 2005
Last tuesday, we started our Engineering Week 2005 celebration. Before we embarked on a joyous and colorful motorcade at the Campus, our first activity was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at the UST Sports Complex. I was very happy to see a lot of faculty members and students attending the Mass; moreover, we almost ran out of consecrated hosts during the Holy Communion. Dean Marilyn Mabini was also very happy since the Mass was well attended though a few faculty members did not quite make it because of the morning traffic. Before the final blessing, I as the Regent of the Faculty and Mass celebrant blessed the new image of Blessed Jordan of Saxony, the Patron of the Faculty. Unfortunately after the Mass, we were not able to announce the accompaniment of the image to the Engineering lobby since the sound system was accidentally cut when someone, without anyone realizing it, stepped on the cable connections perhaps during the communion. But there were still a number of faculty members and students who accompanied the transfer of the image.
When everyone arrived after the motorcade, each department showed their cheering prowess since according to the organizers, there was a price to be given for the best cheering crowd. The cheering was really fun and colorful with all participants in their respective costumes - strutting and shouting about. After sometime the faculty officials together with the honored guest who gave the keynote speech at the Engineering Conference Hall, Dr. Norberto Viera, the first filipino president and managing director of Texas Instruments, Phils., Inc., cut the ribbon which formally opened the activities with much applause.
After the keynote speech, Dr. Viera and the officials of the Faculty proceeded to take a sumptuous lunch at the adjoining room. The faculty members and non-academic personnel took their lunch at the Physics lab while the students had their lunchbreak supposedly at the ground floor lobby.
The department exhibits which filled the ground and second floors of the building were opened during the whole afternoon, and everyone was busy hopping from one exhibit to another.
The other activities scheduled throughout the whole week up to saturday among which were as follows - treasure hunting, games (both indoor and outdoor), quiz show, a beauty pageant, alternative classes like personality development, MS Excel Programming, martial arts - seminars and conferences, job fairs, musicial presentations like a band concert/contest and the much awaited faculty variety show, engineering party, recognition day for faculty personnel and students, and of course the annual Engineering Alumni Association Homecoming as the culminating event with a Mass on Saturday.
The whole week promises to be a very hectic one with a variety of activities; it is my hope that everyone will enjoy and gain so much from our celebration.
To the UST Faculty of Engineering, congratulations and good luck!
To all engineering alumni homecoming participants, welcome home!
When everyone arrived after the motorcade, each department showed their cheering prowess since according to the organizers, there was a price to be given for the best cheering crowd. The cheering was really fun and colorful with all participants in their respective costumes - strutting and shouting about. After sometime the faculty officials together with the honored guest who gave the keynote speech at the Engineering Conference Hall, Dr. Norberto Viera, the first filipino president and managing director of Texas Instruments, Phils., Inc., cut the ribbon which formally opened the activities with much applause.
After the keynote speech, Dr. Viera and the officials of the Faculty proceeded to take a sumptuous lunch at the adjoining room. The faculty members and non-academic personnel took their lunch at the Physics lab while the students had their lunchbreak supposedly at the ground floor lobby.
The department exhibits which filled the ground and second floors of the building were opened during the whole afternoon, and everyone was busy hopping from one exhibit to another.
The other activities scheduled throughout the whole week up to saturday among which were as follows - treasure hunting, games (both indoor and outdoor), quiz show, a beauty pageant, alternative classes like personality development, MS Excel Programming, martial arts - seminars and conferences, job fairs, musicial presentations like a band concert/contest and the much awaited faculty variety show, engineering party, recognition day for faculty personnel and students, and of course the annual Engineering Alumni Association Homecoming as the culminating event with a Mass on Saturday.
The whole week promises to be a very hectic one with a variety of activities; it is my hope that everyone will enjoy and gain so much from our celebration.
To the UST Faculty of Engineering, congratulations and good luck!
To all engineering alumni homecoming participants, welcome home!
Friday, February 04, 2005
February 1st-friday Mass 2005
This afternoon, I celebrated the first friday mass at the Engineering Building in UST. I was expecting only a handful of students and faculty members to join in since there was no announcement made yesterday. In fact, I was not even sure of celebrating the Holy Eucharist there. At the start of the Mass, I realized I was wrong. Not only were all the members of the One Voice choir present, the pews that were placed in the middle of the quadrangle filled up by both professors and students sitting side by side, I also looked up the building and there were many students and faculty personnel filling up the fascades of the second floor. I thought that moment was a wonderful rare occasion where everyone is in his rightful place, - the members of the Pax Romana preparing the altar and all the things I needed for the mass including assigning a lector, commentator and reader for the Prayers for the Faithful - everything went just perfect - the sound system, the singing of the choir, etc. Engr. Jun Jongko, one of two eucharistic ministers of the faculty also came and assisted me in giving holy communion.
Likewise as we were about to start, the Dean who was present and sitting at the front row showed her apprehension saying the sky was getting a little overcast and it might rain. I reassured her that that will not happen. It surprised me afterwards about why in the world did I give her that assurance? Well, at that moment I just felt confident that God will not permit rain to ruin our Mass celebration. And indeed we were able to finish the Mass without rain.
Thank you Lord for the good day you have given us, and for giving us the Eucharist as a sign of your great love for all of us!
Likewise as we were about to start, the Dean who was present and sitting at the front row showed her apprehension saying the sky was getting a little overcast and it might rain. I reassured her that that will not happen. It surprised me afterwards about why in the world did I give her that assurance? Well, at that moment I just felt confident that God will not permit rain to ruin our Mass celebration. And indeed we were able to finish the Mass without rain.
Thank you Lord for the good day you have given us, and for giving us the Eucharist as a sign of your great love for all of us!
Saturday, January 01, 2005
To give or not to give this Christmas
Two days after Christmas, I went to visit my family at the province. Days earlier, my niece and nephew kept sending me text messages almost every day on my mobile telling me they couldn't wait to see me again after my last visit during summer. Well, of course, I too was a little excited since I could at last get some needed respite from my usual routinary activities here in manila even just for three days and two nights. So I boarded a bus bound for San Fernando, Pampanga.
While we were about to start the trip, suddenly a man perhaps about my age boarded the bus with his daughter in his arms. Many of us thought he was just another passenger, but suddenly he stood and started to talk with a very sober face almost crying saying, his family needed financial help since his wife is at present undergoing dialysis in a hospital and their money is not enough to pay the bills and medicine. As he was telling us this, he walked from one end of the bus to another to solicit donations while trying to convince everyone of his predicament. There were however mixed reactions from the passengers. Quite a number just turned away while he passed, others kept asking him questions while many dug from their pockets and gave a few centavos. Not far from where I was seated, I saw a middle-aged woman donating a 20-peso bill as he passed her. On my part, I gave him a few bills and some coins. As he reached the entrance door, the man thanked those who handed him some money and afterwards alighted from the bus with his daughter sleeping on his right shoulder.
After he got out, people started talking. One man said he was having second thoughts about believing what the "beggar" was saying. Apparently, he said he had been fooled many times by people whose "modus operandi" were more or less the same - asking help because somebody in the family is sick with cancer and the money needed to buy medicine is not enough, or requesting financial assistance so that one could have enough fare to travel to the province and celebrate the holidays with their loved ones there. One woman passenger was saying she just gave the man the benefit of the doubt since nobody really knows whether he was telling the truth or not. The lady next to her replied that the man was probably bluffing since she said she sensed something in the way he "acted". She observed how from the start while he was informing everyone about his "plight" he looked miserable to the point of crying. But once people begun to give him some money, his face suddenly transformed from one of misery to delight even half-smiling. She said she doubted the man's sincerity since "how can he get so easily delighted by the meager sum he received, most of which were mere coins? Definitely that amount would be far less than the money sufficient to pay for his wife's dialysis. Furthermore she said he doesn't look like a beggar, his physique looked good, good enough for him to find work in a factory. He is just lazy to find a decent job, and begs so that he can buy a couple of drinks with his friends tonight or bet on card game". There were other sorts of reactions besides.
I myself a couple of times had been taken advantaged of in the same way. There were people who requested my assistance for varied reasons aside from those mentioned above, even as far as giving one a considerable sum of money only to find out later that he lied to me (I learned that he used the amount I gave him to spend a night with a prostitute. Subsequently, according to my source, he got infected with some sexual disease). Occasionally I see him but everytime he sees me he runs away perhaps in shame. Now I have become more careful about helping another in need because of what happened.
However, I have not totally declined myself in helping anyone in need. This is what I do in discerning whether someone, who comes to me particularly for financial assistance, is truthful or just making an alibi. If the person tells me he needed money to buy medicine for a sick member of the family, I ask him to wait for me while I buy the medication myself at a nearby drugstore. Sometimes, the person who is not truthful would resort to excuses and goes away. If he asks for money to buy a bus fare so he can go to the province, I request him to accompany me to the bus station and buy the fare myself for him. If he is truthful, he will abide by my way of helping him, if not, well, he goes his way.
Of course, we need to help people who are really in dire need. But at the same time, we also need to be careful and discerning. Helping another person to satisfy his own vices or "helping them to deceive others" would be unexcusable on our part - we become their "accomplices" to the detriment of those who really need our help.
While we were about to start the trip, suddenly a man perhaps about my age boarded the bus with his daughter in his arms. Many of us thought he was just another passenger, but suddenly he stood and started to talk with a very sober face almost crying saying, his family needed financial help since his wife is at present undergoing dialysis in a hospital and their money is not enough to pay the bills and medicine. As he was telling us this, he walked from one end of the bus to another to solicit donations while trying to convince everyone of his predicament. There were however mixed reactions from the passengers. Quite a number just turned away while he passed, others kept asking him questions while many dug from their pockets and gave a few centavos. Not far from where I was seated, I saw a middle-aged woman donating a 20-peso bill as he passed her. On my part, I gave him a few bills and some coins. As he reached the entrance door, the man thanked those who handed him some money and afterwards alighted from the bus with his daughter sleeping on his right shoulder.
After he got out, people started talking. One man said he was having second thoughts about believing what the "beggar" was saying. Apparently, he said he had been fooled many times by people whose "modus operandi" were more or less the same - asking help because somebody in the family is sick with cancer and the money needed to buy medicine is not enough, or requesting financial assistance so that one could have enough fare to travel to the province and celebrate the holidays with their loved ones there. One woman passenger was saying she just gave the man the benefit of the doubt since nobody really knows whether he was telling the truth or not. The lady next to her replied that the man was probably bluffing since she said she sensed something in the way he "acted". She observed how from the start while he was informing everyone about his "plight" he looked miserable to the point of crying. But once people begun to give him some money, his face suddenly transformed from one of misery to delight even half-smiling. She said she doubted the man's sincerity since "how can he get so easily delighted by the meager sum he received, most of which were mere coins? Definitely that amount would be far less than the money sufficient to pay for his wife's dialysis. Furthermore she said he doesn't look like a beggar, his physique looked good, good enough for him to find work in a factory. He is just lazy to find a decent job, and begs so that he can buy a couple of drinks with his friends tonight or bet on card game". There were other sorts of reactions besides.
I myself a couple of times had been taken advantaged of in the same way. There were people who requested my assistance for varied reasons aside from those mentioned above, even as far as giving one a considerable sum of money only to find out later that he lied to me (I learned that he used the amount I gave him to spend a night with a prostitute. Subsequently, according to my source, he got infected with some sexual disease). Occasionally I see him but everytime he sees me he runs away perhaps in shame. Now I have become more careful about helping another in need because of what happened.
However, I have not totally declined myself in helping anyone in need. This is what I do in discerning whether someone, who comes to me particularly for financial assistance, is truthful or just making an alibi. If the person tells me he needed money to buy medicine for a sick member of the family, I ask him to wait for me while I buy the medication myself at a nearby drugstore. Sometimes, the person who is not truthful would resort to excuses and goes away. If he asks for money to buy a bus fare so he can go to the province, I request him to accompany me to the bus station and buy the fare myself for him. If he is truthful, he will abide by my way of helping him, if not, well, he goes his way.
Of course, we need to help people who are really in dire need. But at the same time, we also need to be careful and discerning. Helping another person to satisfy his own vices or "helping them to deceive others" would be unexcusable on our part - we become their "accomplices" to the detriment of those who really need our help.
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