A Plea For Financial Assistance For Iligan City Flood Victims

Brethren, last December 16, 2011, for the first time in the history of Iligan City, a typhoon passed through northern Mindanao affecting the cities of Iligan, Cagayan de Oro and Dumaguete.  As a result, hundreds of lives were lost and hundreds more are missing.

The path of the typhoon as shown in a photo series prepared by Mr. Marvin Isidore C. Macatol shows its deadly course.

No one was spared specially those located near Iligan's two major rivers, the Mandulog and Iligan rivers.  At least 50 of our brethren experienced lost of properties as flood waters reached upto their rooftops, in some areas, beyond.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enq5iQ_7QQo
The youtube video above was taken a few hours after the devastating event.  Ordinary citizens together with the Philippine Armed Forces united to helped those who lost their lives, who lost their loved ones, who lost their properties.  As shown, even cars, trucks and heavy equipments lie as if made of paper.

12 days have passed.  Christmas had passed.  And still we continue to look for those missing friends and relatives.  Searching for bodies yet to be found.  The smell of death lurks in the air in areas greatly damaged by the floods.  Schools were washed away in many areas.  The death toll has risen by the hundreds and still searching, hoping that it will end.  Survivors were luckily found in many sites, floating in the sea, as far as hundreds of kilometers away from Iligan.  Dead bodies too were found and recovered in distant places.

As reported in our city's disaster management command center, their were 11 barangays that was greatly affected by the catastrophe.

As a member of Iligan Lodge No. 207, I sadly say that this month was supposed to be our election month, but due to the incident, we have to postponed it until all things will be at least brought to a manageable state.  Also, I sadly say that our Worshipful Master is a victim of all this.  His house was totally submerged in the flood damaging all his property way beyond recovery.  Many other brother Masons were victims.  From their houses to business establishments losing hundreds of thousands probably millions of pesos.

Brethren, we turn to you asking to extend your cabletow across the seas, across the continents to help your brethren affected by the flood halfway around the world.

Donations can be sent through MetroBank ATM Account No. 170-3170360339 Name - WI Oscar V. Badelles - Iligan Masonic Disaster Relief Coordinating Committee.

May the Great Architect Of The Universe bless us all!

Help Needed For Iligan!

Brethren,

In behalf of the Iligan Bloggers Society, Inc., a non-stock, non-profit organization to which I belong, I seek your  very able assistance by way of asking PayPal either to release the amount donated to the organization to be use for the typhoon victims of Iligan City or immediately return it to all the donors.  We have up to this minute, able to collect the amount of PhP301,000.00 which PayPal has denied our organization to access. The owner of the PayPal account that we are using, Mr. Alexander S. Singcol, Jr., is a member of the Iligan Bloggers Society, Inc.  He has submitted all possible requirements that can be submitted to the institution for their consideration.

With the plight of all the victims of the typhoon awaiting the vital relief that can be purchased with the release of the donations, freezing it after we have submitted copies of our Security and Exchange documents did not suffice.  They have even deducted a certain amount of the stated figure above.  Yesterday's figure is now 300,684.07.

Brethren, brotherly love, RELIEF and Truth should be the substitute of the lost word in our case.  Our organization did all our best to help our people in distress whether they are rich or poor, young or old, christians or muslims by distributing food, water, dry clothes to relieve them of their hunger and shivering cold during the night and publishing our activities so that the donors might see in full honesty where their donated, hard earned monies went.

May I therefore cry for the needed help?

If there are any updates relating to this request, please do not hesitate to contact me through this blog.

F&S,
Bro. Pat D. Noel
Iligan Lodge No. 207

Message from the Worshipful Master - December 17, 2011

Greetings from the EAST

Freemasonry is not a religion, but encourages its members to practice their own religion.  Freemasonry is not political, but it encourages patriotism.  Freemasonry is not a charity, but its members practice charity throughout the world everyday.  Freemasonry, teaches good men to become better through using allegory to impress ideals.

Therefore the Holiday Season is perfect for Masons and creating the Spirit of Christmas throughout the year.  Enjoy the Holiday season seize the spirit of Christmas and hold it dear in your hearts year around.

Merry Christmas to everyone!!

I would like to thank the following brethren in joining us in celebrating the three-in-one event of Iligan Lodge No. 207, the "Family Bonding", "Christmas Party" & "Birthday Celebration of your WM & advanced birthday celebration of Bro. JW Roger Nuñeza; VW Warly Sanguila & Family; WI Oscar Badelles & Family; WB Ed Cueto; Bro. Ali Bari & Family; VW Fem Calio & Family; VW James Yu; Bro. Abel Gomez and Bro. Ivan Banaag.

The host celebrant Bro. JW Roger Nuñeza prepared the venue and donated one pork lechon, kinilaw squid, fish & etc., Bro. BJ Siao, donated one pig, your WM donated one beef lechon and Bro. Abel Gomez, donated cases of soft-drinks and beer.  Thank you very much.

As I reiterated in my last message that, this coming Saturday (December 17, 2011) is our stated meeting and election of officers.  I asked that all of you come to lodge and have your say in the leadership of the lodge for 2012.

WB Jaime P. Magnetico, Worshipful Master

- - - - - -
Greetings to our December Birthday Celebrants
WB Jaime P. Magnetico - Dec. 10
Bro. Rogelio C. Nuñeza - Dec. 11
VW Edwin S. Co - Dec. 14
WB Benigno P. Reyes - Dec. 17
VW Graciano Audwin T. Garzon - Dec. 18
Bro. Melvyn T. Salise - Dec. 22
Bro. Carlito L. Chan, Jr. - Dec. 28
Bro. Victor M. Orbe - Dec. 28

- - - - - -
Best Wishes to our Lovebirds for the month of December:
VW Eufemio & Sis. Gloria Calio - Dec. 9
WB Rolando & Sis. Liberty Layumas - Dec. 10
VW James & Sis. Fely Yu - Dec. 19

- - - - - -
AGENDA FOR THE STATED MEETING
December 17, 2011 - Saturday @ 5:00 P.M.

5:00 P.M. - OPENING OF LODGE

5:05 P.M. - MAIN BUSINESS
*  Reading & Approval of the Minutes of the Last Stated Meeting
*  Reading & Approval of Secretary's Financial Report
*  Reading & Approval of Treasurer's Report
*  Reading of Communication (Edicts, Circulars, etc.)
*  Reading of Part III, Article II, Section 2 of the Masonic Law Book

6:00 P.M. - COMMITTEE REPORT
*  Visit to Home for the Aged - Bro. Abel Gomez
*  Family Bonding & Christmas Party - Bro. Rogelio Nuñeza
*  Sunshine - VW Edwin S. Co, PDDGM

6:20 P.M. - ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR MY 2012

6:45 P.M. - ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF VISITING BRETHREN

6:50 P.M. - Messages / Commentaries from the Visiting WMs, GLI, DGLs, and DDGM

7:00 P.M. - CLOSING OF THE LODGE
                    *Recitation in unison of Closing Prayer*

- - - - - -
"We represent a fraternity which believes in justice and truth and honorable action in your community men who are endeavoring to be better citizens to make a great country greater.  This is the only institution in the world where we can meet on the level all sorts of people who want to live rightly." - Harry S Truman

Message from the Worshipful Master - November 19, 2011

Greetings from the East.

I would like to thank the following brethren from our lodge who went with the Worshipful Master to Oroquieta City or the "The City of Good Life" & participated in the 18th Western Mindanao Masonic Convention last November 4-5, 2011:  Bro. Abel Gomez, VW James T. Yu, Bro. Ali Bari & VW Warly Sanguila.

The Convention was hosted by the Masonic District R-X-C & lead by the Gregorio O. Calit Memorial Lodge No. 154.  The team from our district was headed by our DDGM, VM Ed Banawa, in attendance also were ILL. Ben Alipio, VW Cocoy Abbas, VW Steven So, WB Cesar Miguel, WB Kharis Maranda, WB Khalil Maranda, WB Jing Naga, WB Sonny Alonto, WB Manoling Reyes, Bro. Jing Rahon, Bros. Lester Salazar, Bro. Sammy Huertas, and etc.

The convention was graced by the Most Worshipful Juanito P. Abergas, Grand Master of Masons of the Philippines.  The theme of the convention was "Integrity, Fidelity, Ability, Hallmarks of a True Mason" which was deeply expounded by Grand Master in his message.

Brethren, as we come to the close of this Masonic year, I would like to thank all of you for the effort you have put forward to make this year a success.  But we still have a long way to go.  I am asking your kind heart to continue & support the remaining activities of the lodge.

We will have a fellowcraft Mason degree passing before the stated meeting this coming November 19.  We will need some brethren at lodge to help with the degree work.  On December 10 is our "Family Bonding" and "Christmas Party at the Beach House of Bro. Rogelio Nuñeza in Linamon, Lanao del Norte.

December 17, 2011 is our stated meeting and election of officers.  I asked that all of you come to lodge and have your say in the leadership of the lodge for 2012.

If you have not made arrangements with the secretary, a 2011 dues will be required for you to qualify to vote.

WB Jaime P. Magnetico, Worshipful Master
- - - - - -

Greetings to our NOVEMBER BIRTHDAY celebrants:

Bro. Camar A. Umpa - Nov. 3
Bro. Aurelio A. Dacalos, Jr. - Nov. 11
WB Victor G. Mariano - Nov. 11
VW Henry C. Dy - Nov. 14
Bro. Cristito Dinopol, Jr. - Nov. 27
- - - - - -

Best Wishes to our LOVEBIRDS for the month of NOVEMBER:

WB Alvin & Sis Jackie Bacolod
- - - - - -

AGENDA FOR THE PASSING & STATED MEETING
November 19, 2011 (Saturday @ 2:00 p.m.)

2:00 P.M. - OPENING OF LODGE OF M.M.
2:20 P.M. - SUSPENDING THE LABOR OF THE LODGE OF M.M. &
                   OPENING THE LODGE OF FCM for the Passing of Bro. Ivan Banaag

     Worshipful Master - Bro. Hilario Abel B. Gomez
     Senior Warden - WB Jaime P. Magnetico
     Junior Warden - Bro. Rogelio Nuñeza
     Senior Deacon (1st Section) - Bro. Pat D. Noel
                             (2nd Section) - VW Genesis G. Calit, PDGL
     Junior Deacon - Bro. Sandy Sy
     Marshal - Bro. Lloyd Jose Aguilar
     Senior Steward - Bro. Alykhan U. Ali
     Junior Steward - Bro. Ali Bari
     Working Tools - Bro. Rogelio Nuñeza
      Treasurer - Bro. Boyd F. Siao
      Secretary - VW Warlito M. Sanguila, PDDGM
      Chaplain - VW Sotero Q. Trinidad, PDDGM
      Tyler - WB Albert Chiu, PM
      Proficiency Examiner - VW Warlito M. Sanguila, PDDGM
      Degree Charge - WI Ed Ulindang, GLI

5:00 P.M. - CLOSING THE LODGE OF F.C.M. & RESUMING THE LABOR OF THE LODGE OF M.M.
5:05 P.M. - MAIN BUSINESS
  *  Reading & Approval of the Minutes of the Last Stated Meeting
  *  Reading & Approval of the Secretary's Financial Report
  *  Reading & Approval of the Treasurer's Report
  *  Reading of Communications
6:00 P.M. - MASONIC EDUCATION
                   Topic:  "The Significance of the Cabletow"
                               VW Eufemio L. Calio, PDGL
6:30 P.M. - ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF VISITING BRETHREN
6:45 P.M. - Messages / Commentaries from the Visiting WMs, GLI, DGLs, and DDGM
6:50 P.M. - CLOSING OF THE LODGE
                   *Recitation in unison of Closing Prayer*
- - - - - -
"Weakness of attitude becomes weakness of character." - Albert Einstein

Message from the Worshipful Master - October 22, 2011

Message from Worshipful Brother Jaime P. Magnetico

I would like to congratulate the brethren who made the 6th Mindanao Scottish Rite Convention successful.  First and foremost to Bro. Oscar V. Badelles, 32° KCCH, the Convention Director, likewise to the following brethren:   Bro. Eduardo D. Ulindang, 32° KCCH,  Chairman, Convention Secretariat; Ill. James T. Yu, 33° IGH, Valley Supervisor, Ill. Rodolfo B. Montalban, 33° IGH, Venerable Master, Iligan Lodge of Perfection; to the investiture team headed by Bro. Giuseppe S. Tianco, 32° KCCH, most of all to Ill. Warlito M. Sanguila, 33° IGH, Valley Deputy, Valley of Iligan and Ill. Buenaventura C. Alipio, 33° SGIG, Orient of Lanao.

To the rest of the brethren who keep the two-day convention alive, "Mabuhay kayong lahat!"

Brethren, in our desire to "pass" Bro. Ivan Banaag with the team purely compose of the brethren from Iligan Lodge No. 207, the three lights decided to move the "passing" of Bro. Ivan Banaag to November 19, 2011.  The brethren who will be absent this coming October 22, 2011 are the following:  Bro. JW Roger Nuñeza, will be in Surigao City, Bro. SD Rene Tan, still in Manila; VW Genesis Calit, lecturer, will have a meeting in Cagayan de Oro City.

In as much we don't have yet a "Family Bonding" affair, we decided and of course with the approval of the body, to have a joint Family Bonding & Christmas Party, this coming December 10, 2011.  Brethren I will greet you "Merry Christmas" in advance.

- - - - - -

Greetings to our OCTOBER BIRTHDAY celebrants:

Bro. Hilario Abel B. Gomez  -  October 4

Bro. Antonio Ll. Bartolome III  -  October 5

WB Wilfredo R. Bacareza  -  October 12

Bro. Arthur Ll. Padilla  -  October 20

Bro. Urso A. Peñalosa  -  October 26

- - - - - -

Felicitations also to BRO. CHARLES & SIS. LIZA ANG on their WEDDING ANNIVERSARY on October 6th.

- - - - - -

AGENDA FOR THE STATED MEETING, October 22, 2011, Saturday @ 5:00 P.M.

5:00 P.M.  -  OPENING OF LODGE OF MASTER MASON

                     *Recitation in unison of Opening Prayer*

5:30 P.M.  -  MAIN BUSINESS

                     *Reading & Approval of the Minutes of the Last Stated Meeting

                     *Reading & Approval of Secretary's Financial Report

                     *Reading & Approval of Treasurer's Report

                     *Reading & Approval of the Almoner's Report

                     *Reading of Communication

5:45 P.M.  -  COMMITTEE REPORTS

                     *Masonic Conventions  -  Bro. Abel Gomez 

                                      -  Multi-District Masonic Convention  - November 4-5, 2011 @ Oroquieta City

                                      -  56th Mindanao Masonic Convention  -  November 26, 2011 @ Tagum City

                     *Let's Go Green  -  Bro. Ali Bari

                     *Walk for Your Health  -  VW James T. Yu

                     *Family Bonding & Christmas Party  -  Bro. Roger Nuñeza

                     *Sunshine  -  VW Edwin S. Co, PDDGM

6:00 P.M.  -  MASONIC EDUCATION

                     Topic:  "The Orders of Architecture"  -  by:  WM Jaime P. Magnetico

6:30 P.M.  -  Acknowledgement of Visiting Brethren

6:45 P.M.  -  Messages / Commenataries from the visiting WMs, GLI, DGLs, and DDGM

6:50 P.M.  -  CLOSING OF THE LODGE

                     *Recitation in unison of Closing Prayers*

- - - - - -

"A true friend (and brother) never gets in the way unless you happen to be going down."  -  Arnold Glasgow

THE HISTORY OF PHILIPPINE MASONRY IS THE STORY OF OUR COUNTRY

by MW Peter U. Lim Lo Suy, 33° IGH, Grand Master, 2009 - 2010

(Delivered at the Grand Lodge premises on June 12, 2009 on the occasion of the celebration of the 111th anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence)

(note:  I personally attended the wreath-laying ceremonies at the Rizal Park together with other brethren from other lodges before we proceeded to the Grand Lodge grounds where this speech was delivered by MW Peter Lim Lo Suy.  I was in Manila then for the Regional exhibit of the Department of Tourism at Intramuros during the month of June, 2009.  WB Francis Blanco of Jacques DeMolay Lodge invited me to join them during the said occasion.)

Mabuhay ang Araw ng Kalayaan ng Pilipinas!  Mabuhay ang Masonerya sa Pilipinas!

Those two exclamations suggest strongly that the history of Philippine Masonry is, to a very great extent, the story of our beloved country.  Let me validate this thesis.

In the second half of the 19th century, our forebears, many of whom were Masons, campaigned persistently and untiringly for the grant by Spain of much-needed reforms, such as representation of the country in the Spanish parliament, freedom of the press, competitive examinations for civil service posts, and restriction of the arbitrary behavior of certain groups.  The wanted democratic rights for the Philippines.  They believed that little by little autonomy would be achieved, and then independence in the course of time.  But they were disappointed because Spain turned deaf ears to their pleas for reforms.

(source: http://model373.blogspot.com/2009/08/freemasonry-in-philippines.html)

In the last decade of the 19th century, our forebears, led by Masons, undertook the Philippine revolution agains Spain in two phases.  The first phase was led by Bro. Andres Bonifacio, and the second by WB Emilio Famy Aguinaldo.  Their burning desire was the eventual separation of the Philippines from Spain.

After a protracted armed struggle against Spanish forces, our revolutionaries, led by Gen. and WB Aguinaldo, President of the Revolutionary Government, established the First Philippine Republic and declared the independence of the Philippines from foreign rule.  The man who penned the text of the declaration of independence was a Mason, Bro. Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista.  Many other participants in that historic event were also members of the Craft.

 

(source:  http://marengstewart.blogspot.com/2008_03_01_archive.html)

Yes, on June 12, a century and eleven years ago, as a people, we asserted our natural and inalienable claim to freedom and independence.  This is an inherent right of every people;  it is not dependent upon the will and discretion of another.

Masons are fond of symbolism, and I am no exception.  I like to think that the setting of the proclamation of Philippine Independence was a symbolic one because there was a torrential downpour in the afternoon of that day.  Then the downpour stopped, and with the proclamation of Philippine Independence, the sun of liberty brightly shone over the people in attendance.  On the historic balcony of his house on Calle Real in Kawit, Cavite, Gen. and WB Aguinaldo solemnly proclaimed the independence of the Philippines, and then proudly waved the Philippine flag, which was sewn in Hong Kong by Doña and Sister Marcela Agoncillo, the wife of Don and Bro. Felipe Agoncillo, who strongly recommended to Gen. and WB Aguinaldo that he should take Bro. Apolinario Mabini as his personal adviser.  As Gen. and WB Aguinaldo waved the flag, there were thunderous applause and shouts of Mabuhay ang Kalayaan ng Pilipinas!

 

http://thewander-woman.com/philippines-independence-day-june-12/

Most of the people who witnessed the momentous event were revolutionaries - barefoot soldiers wearing shirts and red trousers, and wide-brimmed straw hats, and carrying rifles captured from the enemy, with their bolos hanging from their waists.  The score of civilian visitors wore ties and dark coats as befitting the solemn occasion.  There were a few American representatives.  But US Admiral George Dewey was conspicuously, suspiciously, and ominously absent.

The brass band from San Francisco de Malabon, which was stationed below the balcony, broke out into a stirring tune.  This was the National Anthem, called Marcha Filipina at that time, composed by Maestro Julian Felipe.  The crowd, which had never heard the tune before, did not know how to react at first.  But when they saw Gen. and WB Aguinaldo and the leading revolutionary leaders, most of whom were Masons, salute and other ranking civilians stand at attention, they realized that they were hearing the national anthem played for the first time in public.  So, they also saluted or stood at attention.

On September 29, 1898, the Malolos Congress, many members of which were Masons, formally ratified the Declaration of Independence, which had been adopted by the assembly of local officials in Bacoor, Cavite, on August 1 of the same year.  In that assembly, a resolution was adopted, calling upon the President of the Philippines to take steps to secure from foreign powers their recognition of the independence of the Philippines.

On August 6, 1898, in compliance with that resolution, the Revolutionary Government sent diplomatic notes to foreign nations, requesting them to accord formal recognition to the Philippines as a free and independent nation.

On January 233, 1899, the First Philippine Republic was inaugurated, with Gen. and WB Aguinaldo as President and with many Masons on his Cabinet.  But the Republic was no to last long;  for on February 5 of that year, hostilities broke out between Filipino and American troops around Manila.

Because the Americans had vastly superior weaponry, the Philippine government evacuated from Malolos and began its odyssey, moving northward, from one capital to another, and finally hiding in the forests of Northern Luzon.

On July 4, 1901, the United States, under President McKinley, a Mason, established a civilian colonial government in Manila.  Many officials of this government were Masons.

In the year following, US President Theodore Roosevelt, also a Mason, declared the Philippine-American War ended.

On December 19, 1912, American Masons established the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands.  In 1917, Filipino Lodges under the Grande Oriente Español fused with the Lodges under the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands, and the fusion resulted in the formation of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines.

Clearly, Filipino and American Masons worked together in close harmony for the welfare and progress of the Philippines.  They worked together, for instance, toward the regaining of Philippine Independence.

Many of the delegates to the 1935 Constitutional Convention were Masons.  MW Manuel Luis Quezon eventually became President of the Philippine Commonwealth.  He too, appointed brother Masons to Cabinet posts and other dignified positions in government.

Then came World War II.  During the Japanese occupation, WB Jose P. Laurel accepted the Presidency of the Japanese-sponsored Second Philippine Republic.  Many brother Masons joined the Americans in fighting against the Japanese invaders.

Next Gen. and Bro. Douglas MacArthur led his forces in liberating the country from the Japanese.

 

http://www.westsuburbanshrineclub.org/History-Shriners.htm

On July 4, 1946, the United States recognized the independence of the Philippines in ceremonies held in front of the Legislative Building.  Ill. Bro. Paul McNutt lowered the American flag, and WB Manuel A. Roxas raised the Philippine flag.

As first President of the Third Philippine Republic, WB Manuel A. Roxas concluded his inaugural address with this paragraph:

"We should resolve to maintain our sovereignty in all its integrity, whatever the cost, so that we may continue to enjoy it to the fullest measure and bequeath it to our children, undiminished and unsullied.  In this resolve and in the task ahead to achieve the enduring happiness of the Filipino people, I call upon the whole nation to lend me its continued confidence and support.  Given that, with the help of Almighty God, this Republic will, I am sure, rapidly grow in stature, wealth and power, loved and revered by its citizens, honored and respected abroad, the haven of liberty and justice, the cherished home of contented, free men."

Through all those years, Philippine Masonry exerted a deciding influence on the affairs of our local and national communities.

July 4 was celebrated as Philippine Independence Day.  In 1962, however, President Diosdado Macapagal decided to commemorate June 12, 1898 as "Araw ng Kalayaan" because, according to him, the historical fact was that the Filipinos proclaimed their independence from foreign rule in June 12, 1898.  On that date, the National Anthem was played, and the Filipino flag displayed.  These are essential features in the birth of a nation.

President Ferdinand Marcos, who succeeded Macapagal, later proclaimed July 4 as "Philippine-American Friendship Day."

For me, it does not really matter whether we celebrate Independence Day on June 12 or on July 4.  What matters is that we all work together in close harmony to bring about a meaningful development of our nation, so that it will be able to participate on free and equal terms with other independent nations in the world in the all-important task of attaining haman solidarity or universal peace and harmony among God's creatures.  In Masonic terms, human solidarity is establishing upon earth a true Brotherhood of Man under the Fatherhood of God.

We cannot, however, bring about a meaningful development of our nation unless we help the duly constituted authorities to erect the real edifice of our social regeneration.  This requires us, as a people, to establish our moral education on more solid bases and to abjure the vices most of which we inherited from the Spaniards.  Experience has shown that we Filipinos have got to radically change not only our institutions, but our way of being and thinking as well.

This is where we come in.  We should set the example of high ethical living; for, as the late Chief Justice and Worshipful Brother Manuel V. Moran stated, "The purpose of Masonry is to create in the world a band of men to whom others may look for example and inspiration - men who others will say are men of honor, virtue and charitable feelings."

But Masonry has for its object not only the consistent practice of all the virtues in daily life, but also the wide dissemination among our fellowmen, particularly our countrymen, of the moral, political, philosophical, and religious truths which it teaches.

To be adequately motivated to disseminate the precepts and principles of Masonry as widely as we can among our countrymen, let us weigh and consider this statement of Ill. Bro. Albert Pike:  "If men were all Masons and strictly obeyed with all their heart the mild and gentle teachings of Masonry, this world would be paradise, while ignorance, superstition, persecution, intolerance, fanaticism, and other moral evils make of it a hell."

We can make a lot of difference in our society if, in addition to living our Masonry consistently 24 hours a day, we exert a little more effort than before to induce others, by precept or instruction, to learn and live by the ideals, principles and values which our Fraternity teaches.

If we do that, then we may be sure that the Third Philippine Republic will, as the late Pres. and WB Manuel A. Roxas put it, "rapidly grow in stature, wealth and power, loved and revered by its citizens, honored and respected abroad, the haven of liberty and justice, the cherished home of contented, free men."

If we contribute to the attainment of that end, then we can proudly say that we have helped make a difference in Philippine society.  Together, brethren, let us make that difference toward a more peaceful, juster Philippines!

Message from the Worshipful Master - September 17, 2011

 Message from the Worshipful Master - WB Jaime P. Magnetico

I would like to thank and recognize the members of the conferral team who labored to confer the 1st degree of Masonry upon Bro. Ivan Banaag last August 13, 2011.  We anticipate the same degree of dedication and proficiency when we shall pass Bro. Ivan Banaag to the 2nd degree of Masonry hopefully on October 15.  Due to his hectic schedule, Bro. Banaag is not yet ready to take his proficiency examinations for the 1st Degree.

WB Kharis Maranda, Worshipful Master of JVVR Memorial Lodge No. 259, district chairman of Sagip Kalikasan project, invited the brethren of the district to a tree planting activity on September 17, 2011 at the Barangay Pugaan, and assembly time is 6:00 a.m. at the UDLM Temple.

Although the Iligan Lodge No. 207 has identified area for our tree planting and chaired by Bro. Ali Bari, I encourage the brethren of Iligan Lodge No. 207 to join and support this district wide activity.

Iligan City as a tradition is celebrating it's fiesta coming September 29.  We will be witnessing again "Dyandi" (ritual dance) perform during this festivity.  Other curious dance-forms, also performed during the San Miguel Fiesta, include the Eskrima and etc.

The name Diyandi has different meanings among the Muslims and the lumads but the word "Diyandi" in itself stands for the celebration as a whole.  The ritual was done to pay respect to the patron saint who is said to be the defender among those who are attacked and the healer among those who are ill.

It is because of these legendary folk oral traditions and beliefs that the Muslims, the lumads, and the coastal people celebrate as one in welcoming St. Michael's feast.  Until this day, the oral traditions of Iligan's folk continuously speak of St. Michael's heroism through folk stories and beliefs.

- - - - - -

Greetings to our SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAY celebrants:

Bro. Boyd F. Siao  -  September 10
Bro. Lowell D. Chiong  -  September 10
Bro. Mark Stanley K. Siao  -  September 15
VW Eufemio L. Calio  - September 16
Bro. Alberto V. Espejo  - September 17
VW Datumanong D. Sarangani  - September 17
Bro. Miguel T. Valbuena  -  September 18
WB Melanio D. Siao  -  September 19
WB Ferdinand P. Bartolome  -  September 27
Bro. Rene A. Tan  -  September 30

- - - - - -

Best Wishes to our lovebirds for the month of September:

VW Edwin & Sis Annie Co  -  September 8
VW Robert & Sis Joy Co  -  September 15

- - - - - -

AGENDA FOR THE STATED MEETING, SEPTEMBER 17, 2011, SATURDAY @ 5:00 P.M.

5:00 P.M.  -  OPENING OF LODGE OF MASTER MASONS
                     *Recitation in unison of Opening Prayer*

5:30 P.M.  -  MAIN BUSINESS
                     *Reading & Approval of the Minutes of the Last Stated Meeting.
                     *Reading & Approval of Secretary's Financial Report
                     *Reading & Approval of Treasurer's Report
                     *Reading of Communication.

5:45 P.M.  -  COMMITTEE REPORT
                     *WesMinCon & MinCon  -  Bro. Abel Gomez
                     *Let's Go Green  -  Bro. Ali Bari
                     *Sunshine  -  VW Edwin S. Co, PDDGM

6:00 P.M.  -  MASONIC EDUCATION
                     Topic:  "Ornaments of a Lodge"
                     VW Eufemio L. Calio, PGL

6:30 P.M.  -  ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF VISITING BRETHREN

6:45 P.M.  -  Messages / Commentaries from the visiting WMs, GLI, DGLs and DDGM.

6:50 P.M.  -  CLOSING OF THE LODGE
                     *Recitation in unison of Closing Prayer*

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"We Masons have what it takes to bring PEACE to our land.  But we must start by maintaining the PEACE within and outside the Portals of our Temples.  We can set the example by being more tolerant and forgiving of the faults of others; by showing more humility and kindness;  by believing that sometimes SILENCE IS GOLDEN." - RW Peter U. Lim Lo Suy, 33° IGH, delivered on March 14, 2009 during the 59th Annual Session of the Supreme Council

Message From The Worshipful Master - August 20, 2011

Message from the Worshipful Master, WM Jaime P. Magnetico

VW Graciano Audwin T. Garzon dropped his working tools last August 7, 2011 at 4:55 P.M.  He is a great lost to our fraternity as one of the pillars of Iligan Lodge No. 207.  I would like to thank the brethren for your untiring support both financially & morally to the orphans of VW Audwin Garzon.  We were ablr to raised the amount of PhP20,200.00 & I turned over personally to Carl Garzon.  VW James T. Yu & Co. gave also PhP20,000.00.  I would like also to thank the brethren from the other lodges in the district for doing the same.

We had a quite successful Skin Seminar on particular topic "Restoring Youth and Beauty the Non-surgical corrESthetiques Way."  Conducted by Dr. Jesse J. Corres last August 10, 2011.  It was attended by our Sisters & through the effort of WB Vic Mariano.

As reported by WI O.V. Badelles that "Operation Kalamdagan, the free eyeglasses distribution project, was successfully implemented as planned last August 11 & 12, 2011 at the U.D.L. Masonic Center, Quezon Ave., Iligan City."  I would like to thank our benefactors, Mr. Leo & Mrs. Narcisa Cruz of Chicago, USA, and again through the effort & connection of WB Victor Mariano.  I would like also to thank WI Oscar V. Badelles, for his chairmanship of the program for the successful distribution of 865 reading glasses to the indigents residence of Iligan City.  Likewise, I would like to thank Sis. Belinda Badelles & daughter Mariz Badelles in charge of the actual distribution.  I would like to thank all the brethren who help in making the program very successful.

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AGENDA FOR THE INITIATION & STATED MEETING
August 20, 2011 (Saturday @ 1:00 P.M.)

1:00 P.M. - OPENING OF LODGE OF M.M.

1:20 P.M. - SUSPENDING THE LABOR OF THE LODGE OF M.M. & OPENING THE LODGE

                  OF  E.A.M. for the initiation of Bro. Ivan Banaag.

                  Worshipful Master - Bro. Rogelio Nuneza

                  Senior Warden - Bro. Abel Gomez

                  Junior Warden - WB Jaime P. Magnetico, IM

                  Senior Deacon - Bro. Renato A. Tan

                  Junior Deacon - Bro. Pat D. Noel

                  Marshall - Bro. Lloyd Aguilar

                  Senior Steward - Bro. Alykhan Ali

                  Junior Steward - Bro. Ali Bari

                  Lambskin Apron - Bro. Khaliquzzaman Macabato

                  Working Tools - Bro. Abdulhakim Mamad

                  Treasurer - Bro. Boyd F. Siao

                  Secretary - VW Warlito M. Sanguila, PDDGM

                  Chaplain - VW Sotero Q. Trinidad, PDDGM

                  Tyler - WB Albert Chiu, PM

                  Lecture - Bro. Abel Gomez

                  Degree Charge - WI Ed Ulindang, GLI

5:00 P.M. - MAIN BUSINESS

   *  Reading & Approval of the Minutes of the last stated meeting

   *  Reading & Approval of Secretary's Financial Report

   *  Reading & Approval of Treasurer's Report

   *  Reading of Communication

5:45 P.M. - COMMITTEE REPORTS

   *  Operation Kalamdagan & Skin Seminar - WI Oscar V. Badelles, GLI

   *  Sunshine - VW Edwin S. Co, PDDGM

6:00 P.M. - MASONIC EDUCATION - VW Eufemio L. Calio, PGL

6:30 P.M. - ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF VISITING BRETHREN

6:45 P.M. - Messages/Commentaries from the visiting WMs, GLI, DGLs, and DDGM

6:50 P.M. - CLOSINGOF THE LODGE *Recitation in unison of Closing Prayer*

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Greetings to our AUGUST BIRTHDAY celebrants:


   WB Mervin C. Salazar - August 4
   Bro. Jose B. Montejo, Jr. - August 7
   Bro. Rainato L. Sy - August 11
   Bro. Angelo Guisseppi C. Loceo - August 14
   VW Dominic W. Siao - August 30

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Best Wishes to our lovebirds for the month of August:

   Bro. Angelo Guisseppi & Sis. Patricia Loceo - August 23

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"No man should ever enter upon any great or important undertaking without first invoking the blessings of God..." - Monitor, Entered Apprentice Mason

    

A Worthy Brother Dropped His Working Tools

Iligan Lodge No. 207 is sad to announce to the Brethren here and abroad that VW Graciano Audwin T. Garzon dropped his working tools last Sunday afternoon.  He has been fighting his ailment (complications due to diabetes) since his collapse in his work area early part of this year.

A "Lodge of Sorrow" was opened last Monday evening by the members of Iligan Lodge No. 207, led by WM Jaime P. Magnetico.

His body was brought to the lodge early monday morning and was moved to the Cosmopolitan Funeral Parlor this morning at around 10.

His body will be laid to rest come Saturday, August 13, 2011 at 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon.

Brief History of Freemasonry in the Philippines

By:  Bro. Geminiano V. Galarosa, Jr.
Dagohoy Lodge No. 84

In the Beginning...

     The history of Philippine Masonry may be likened to the history of the first Grand Lodge.  On the Feast of St. John the Baptist in 1717, four of the pre-existing Masonic lodges in Great Britain organized what became the first Grand Lodge of the world.  On December 19, 1912, three lodges that were chartered under the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of California finally succeeded in establishing the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippine Islands, the forerunner of what is now officially known as the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines.

     Masonry existed in England long before the creation of the first Grand Lodge, so was Philippine Masonry already alive even before the formation of the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands.  In 1856, for example, Primera Luz Filipina, the first Masonic Lodge in the Philippines, was formed by Jose Malcampo y Monge, a naval captain who subsequently became Governor General of the Philippines.  Primera Luz was chartered by Gran Oriente Luisitano and admitted only Spaniards in its fold.  Subsequently, three other lodges were established one after the other - the first by the Germans, the second by the British consul in Nagtahan, and the third by the Spaniards in Pandacan.

The Filipino Patriots Embrace the Tenets of Freemasonry Abroad...

 President Emilio Aguinaldo

 

Andres Bonifacio

Jose P. Rizal

Apolinario Mabini

Bishop Gregorio Aglipay

These are just a few of the many men from the ranks of Masonry who are extraordinary in their pursuit of freedom for our beloved country.

(all images above are taken from:  http://www.grandlodgephils.org.ph/2011/?page_id=77)

It was the influx of the students who pursued higher studies in Europe, among them Marcelo H. del Pilar from Bulacan, Graciano Lopez Jaena from Iloilo, the Luna Brothers from Ilocos, Galicano Apacible from Batangas, Domingo Panganiban from Camarines Norte, Jose Alejandrino from Pampanga, Tomas Arejola from Camarines Sur, Ariston Bautista from Manila, Julio Llorente from Cebu, and the country's foremost hero, Jose Rizal from Laguna, that made a conglomeration of Masonic patriots from the entire archipelago.

 (image source:  http://pediaview.com/openpedia/Spanish_colonization_of_the_Philippines)

 
     In 1886, some of them joined Lodge Solidaridad No. 53 in Barcelona, Spain, while others joined Lodge Revoluccion, and, exposed to the tenets of the fraternity, established local lodges upon their return to the islands.  Nilad Lodge was formed first on January 6, 1891, and, in no time, several lodges mushroomed in Manila and its environs, even reaching as far as Zamboanga in the southern backdoor.  By 1893, they had succeeded in establishing the Grand Regional Council under the leadership of Ambrocio Flores.

     Three years later, the Philippine Revolution conflagrated an armed rebellion that was initiated by the Katipunan led by Andres Bonifacio.  Bonifacio's organizational skills and the secret codes that he employed were said to have been copied from the Masonic secret rules and procedures.  These ultimately led to the downfall of the nation's conquistadors who for more than three centuries wielded the stick without dangling any carrot over the subjects of the entire archipelago.

(source:  Iligan Lodge No. 207 Bulletin, July 16, 2011)

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"The most difficult task of Masonry is to make our fellow brethren bearers of that understanding to seek the means of knowing the ways of life of our fellow men, their customs, and their history also." - Ill. Waldemar Hait, 33°

Message from the Worshipful Master - July 16, 2011

I would like to thank the brethren who in one way or another joined me in our visitation to our sister lodge, the Leonardo T. Pañares Lodge No. 220 last July 4th.  Aside from the three lights, we were joined by VW James T. Yu, PDDGM, Lodge Visitation Committee Chair, WI Oscar V.Badelles, IPM, WB Ferdinand Realtor P. Bartolome, PM, brethren form Maranaw Lodge No. 111, headed by WB Ian C. Uy, PM, Bro. Regalado Chua & Bro. Aitor Gonzales, with us also, WB Lino T. Ratunil, PM from JVVR Lodge No. 259.

You Worshipful Master had the privileged of giving the Masonic Education talk.  We were all warmly received.  Dinner and fellowship followed at the Philtown Hotel.  WB Manuel Sukarno B. Alvarez, Worshipful Master of LTP 220, proposed their reciprocal visit on September 17.  Once again my deep gratitude for the brethren who supported us in this undertaking especially VW James T. Yu for using his KIA Van.  Thank you.

Together with Bro. JW Roger Nuñeza we personally turned over to Sister Susan Magallanes, last June 19, the partial amount of PhP3,000.00 as our pledge to the Bishop Bienvenido S. Tudtud Memorial Home for the Aged at Kanaway, Iligan City.

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Greetings to our JULY BIRTHDAY Celebrants:

VW Gerardo B. Padilla - July 10

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Best wishes to our lovebirds for the month of July:

Bro. Danilo and Sis. Virgie Gonzaga - July 12
Bro. Elmer and Sis. Bernadeth Marcella - July 29

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"Masonry is ever a challenge, an invitation to a clear vision, a loftier aim, a braver struggle, a kindlier and more unselfish way of living... That is what we as Masons should stand for if we would be real men." - Ill. Joseph Earl Perry, 33°

          

Some Notes on Dr. Jose Rizal as a Mason

 

(image source: http://www.historylink.org/index.cfm?DisplayPage=output.cfm&file_id=3168)

Jose Rizal was made a Master Mason on November 15, 1890 at Logia Solidaridad 53 in Madrid, Spain.  He affiliated with a lodge under the jurisdiction of Grand Orient of France on October 14, 1891, and was made honorary Worshipful Master of Nilad Lodge No. 144 in 1892.  There he delivered a lecture entitled "La Masonria".

According to Dean Jorge Bocobo, Rizal was influenced by Miguel Morayta, a history professor at the Universadad de Madrid, Rizal joined Masonry, under the Gran Oriente de Español, adopting the Masonic name, Dimasalang.  He was automatically excommunicated, expelled from the Catholic Church, a fate decreed for all Catholics becoming Masons since 1738 and reaffirmed by the CBCP 1990.

Rizal had plenty of illustrious company including Andres Bonifacio, Apolinario Mabini, Ladislao Diwa, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Juan Luna, Deodato Arellano, Graciano Lopez-Jaena, H. Pardo de Tavera, and so many others in the Propaganda Movement and La Liga Filipina.

It was a Masonic trader, Jose Ramos, who first smuggled copies of the "Noli Me Tangere" into Manila.

In 1912, Rizal's family rejected a petition from the Jesuits to rebury their famous pupil.  Instead, that honor was accorded to the Masons, led by Timoteo Paez, who, in full regalia, carried Rizal's remains in a long procession to the Masonic Temple in Tondo for funeral rites, before final interment at the Luneta in December 1912.


(source:  Iligan Lodge No. 207 Bulletin, June 18, 2011)

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"Masonry is a great institution of learning because it teaches man...how to live cleanly, kindly, calmly, open-eyed and unafraid..." - Ill & Dr. Joseph Fort Newton, 33°

         

Message from the Worshipful Master - June 18, 2011

My apologies to all the followers of this blog...I was really busy attending to some important visitors of our beloved city, I was not able to update the site.  As a matter of fact, I was not also able to attend our stated meeting.  (the visitors were the crew of GMA News TV, Weekend Getaway, who came to Iligan to shoot a segment of their show here.)

Message from WB Jaime P. Magnetico

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY

The City of Iligan joined the nation in celebrating the 113th Philippine Independence day and simultaneously in honor of our national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

The Independence Day Parade started from the Iligan City playground and followed a circuitous route passing thru the commercial center of the city and ended at the Public Plaza, the two lights of Iligan Lodge 207 joined by VW Warly Sanguila, VW Dominic Siao, WI Oscar V. Badelles, WI Ed Ulindang, Bro. Ali Bari, and VW Bill Bacareza.  VW Vice Mayor Henry Dy, VW Kagawad Moises Dalisay, Jr., and Bro. Pat D. Noel, in their Katipuneros uniform, were with the group of the City Government.  The brethren from the district were lead by VW Ed Banawa, DDGM.

Brethren our lodge is scheduled to visit Leonardo T. Pañares Lodge No. 220, our sister lodge, this coming July 4, 2011.  In the spirit of fellowship, I encourage the brethren to join the group in the visitation.

In our caucus last June 14, 2011, WB Vic Mariano, informed the brethren that a couple from Las Vegas is visiting Iligan to distribute 1,000 eyeglasses to the indigent Iliganons this coming August 11 & 12, 2011.  Let us help & coordinate with WB Vic to canvass and identify the indigents in the different barangays in Iligan City that need eyeglasses.

I would like to thank Bro. Lloyd Aguilar & Bro. Iam John Chen, of Iligan Lodge No. 207 and Manticao Lodge No. 243 respectively, who jointly chaired the very successful joint hosting of the 2011 Mindanao Travelers' Invitational Shootfest.  Congratulations to the Team Relay Champion, which is composed of Bro. Sandy Sy, VW James Yu, WB Roberto Padilla & Bro. Jason Lim.  Likewise to the 2nd Runner-up wihich is composed of SW Abel Gomez, Bro. Lloyd Aguilar, Bro. Pat Noel & DeMolay Reggielloyd Aguilar.  In the Masons Team Relay fun event, there were eight (8) participating teams.

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Greetings to our JUNE BIRTHDAY celebrants:

Bro. Sandy U. Sy - June 15
Ill. Salvador Ll. Laya - June 17
VW Angelo M. Rentoy - June 18

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Best Wishes to our lovebirds for the month of JUNE:

Bro. Robert & Sis Josie Padilla - June 1
WB Melanio & Sis Anabelle Siao - June 2
Bro. Arthur & Sis Liza Padilla - June 5
WB Jaime & Sis Judith Magnetico - June 9
Bro Ali and Sis Heide Bari   -  June 13
VW Sotero & Sis Sol Trinidad - June 19
Bro. Antonio & Sis Connie Bartolome - June 25

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"The principal purpose of Masonry is to create in the world a band of men to whom others may look for example and inspiration - men who others will say are men of honor, virtue and charitable feelings." - WB and Chief Justice Manuel V. Moran

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Barong Tagalog

Many of you probably have wondered (and still wondering) why Barong Tagalog is the national costume for men in the Philippines.    Today's generation probably thought that this dress originated from a sort of Spanish Elitist because of its sophisticated and kind of elite look and design.   But getting an email from a friend made me think otherwise.   And I would like to share it to you all.  Below is the email which tells of the history of Barong Tagalog and how it came to be the national costume of the Philippines.  Added also is a music video entitled "Barong Tagalog" sung by Ruben Tagalog which i found in youtube and a picture of a Hollywood Director wearing a Barong Tagalog to the Golden Globe Awards.

Why the Barong Tagalog is the national costume of the Philippines
During the Spanish occupation of the Philippines (over 300 years from 1561-1889) the barong tagalog was required by the Spanish government for Filipinos (indios) to be worn at most times to show the difference between the rich and the poor. the poor who serve the rich must always be in uniform.

Take their chauffeurs, maids, and employees as examples. They are in uniform to immediately distinguish them from the employers. When the Spaniards colonized the Filipinos, they had to make it abundantly clear who the boss was through the imposition of a dress code. Men were not allowed to tuck their shirttails in. That was the mark of his inferior status.

Second, the cloth material should be transparent so that he could not conceal any weapon that could be used against the masters. Third, as a precaution on thievery, pockets are not allowed on  the shirt.

By the turn of the century a new middle class began to emerge among the Filipinos. These were known as the principalia. They have mastered Spanish laws and were able to obtain title to lands. They became successful in business and agriculture and sent their sons to be educated abroad. They were privileged to build their houses in the poblacion around the plaza near the seats of power.

Only a member of the principalia could be addressed by the title DON, and only they were allowed to vote. They had all the trappings of power and status, but for one undeniable fact: they still had to wear their shirttails out, if only to remind them that they were still Indios.

What the Spanish authorities did not smother out was the Filipino's will power and dermination to psychologically conquer their colonial masters, through improvisation and  reinterpretation. The Filipino's stylistic bongga (flashy dresser) was a reaction against the overt discrimination and insensitive oppression of the Spaniards.

For example, Filipinos were forbidden to use imported silk and fabrics for their Barong, so they ingeniously used pineapple  leaves to weave the pinya jusi cloth of the barong, turning the outfit into such delicate material, of luminous silky rich  mixture much finer than silk. And to add insult to injury, they hand- embroidered the front with such exquisite abandon: Calado and hand- work all over.
Palgrave, the ethnographer noted, "The capitan's shirt was the native barong, of fine and delicate fiber, embroidered and frilled; it was light and cool and not tucked in the trousers". (Corpuz, 74)

The Barong Tagalog gained its power, prestige, and status when President Quezon, the first Filipino president, declared it the National dress. The status of the lowly inferior Barong thus became another symbol of Filipinos' resistance to colonization.

After World War II, Philippine presidents began wearing the Barong Tagalog at their installation into office and on every formal state occasion. In contemporary times the Barong Tagalog is the power dress. As an abogado de campanilla, you cannot afford not to wear the Barong Tagalog when arguing a case in Philippine courts.

Today, every visitor and foreign dignitary invited to a Malacanang Palace state function must, by necessity, and dictated by protocol, be dressed to the nines in a Barong Tagalog.   The invitations specifically say come in "Barong" instead of the traditional "Coat and Tie". Thus, every one invited to dinner at the Presidential Palace and in many Filipino homes will unknowingly and unwittingly have to experience directly, what it feels to have to wear his shirttails out, to suffer the indignity of having the material of his barong transparent so that he can not conceal any weapon; and horrors (que horror!), to be accused directly of incipient thievery by having no pockets in his barong to put the silver. So, when El Señor Spanish Ambassador is invited to a state dinner, you can say, "Ah, what sweet revenge!" (buti nga!!! )

 

And after Director Quentin Tarantino (director of Pulp Fiction, Desperado, Kill Bill, and many more) came to visit the Philippines he came to love the Barong Tagalog that he also wore it during the Golden Globe Awards in 2007.   Way to go Direk! 

Director Quintin Tarantino during his visit to the Philippines were he was exposed to the beauty of the Barong Tagalog here shown when he paid a courtesy call to then Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

(http://filipinocultured.blogspot.com/2007/12/quentin-tarantinos-barong-tagalog-today.html)

 Hollywood Director Quintin Tarantino wears our Barong Pilipino

(http://www.filipinasoul.com/2007/12/quentin-tarantino-goes-filipino-to-the-golden-globes-announcements)

If the foreigners like Quentin Tarantino came to love our national costume, why wouldn't we, the Filipinos, learn to love it too?  It is our national costume, we should be the first to be proud of it and live to preserve it for future generations.  

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“Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinangalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan.” - Dr. Jose Rizal