Lapaz Batchoy, the Ilonggo Culinary Pride

Lapaz Batchoy, the Ilonggo Culinary Pride 

(By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - October 26, 2018)

“They say you have not truly visited Iloilo, if you have not savored Lapaz Batchoy, the Ilonggo culinary delight right inside Lapaz Public Market in Iloilo City, Philippines.” --dinggol.d~~~

Lapaz Batchoy originated sometime in the late 1938 before world war II in the district of Lapaz, Iloilo City, Philippines. Batchoy is a noodle soup made up of round noodles and pork entrails such as intestines, kidney, liver, etc. and mixed with shrimp, chicken or beef stock. When ready to serve, they add toppings of chicharon or pork cracklings. Served hot with pan de sal or puto, it is muy saboroso!

It was believed concocted by an obscure butcher-cook, a humble "taga Lapaz" named Federico "Deco" Guillergan, Sr. and was made popular under the name "Deco's Lapaz Batchoy" in his modest "over-the-counter" stall inside the Lapaz Public Market, where extra "Caldo Fuerzado" is for free. Later they transferred to a much bigger area within the Eatery Section of the market and with their well kept family “secret” ingredient kuno! renamed it "Deco's Original Lapaz Batchoy". Thereafter, they also served Drive-In customers in the parking area, near the interior portion of the now defunct Panay Railway Lapaz Sub-Station. Sometime in the middle of the 1960's, "Deco's Original Lapaz Batchoy" opened a branch along the main España Street fronting the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila and later another branch inside the prestigious Magallanes Commercial Center in Makati City by the boundary of Pasay City. Other branches soon followed.

When Deco, dubbed by the ilonggos as "The Father of Lapaz Batchoy" passed away, his children and brother continued serving the lucrative Ilonggo culinary pride far and wide. Later, however, one of his trusted aide and protege, named "Santos" who was not a saint after all, offered his services to other “Batchoyans” in the City; and then perhaps, the family secret recipe of the delicious original Deco’s Lapaz Batchoy in Iloilo City is no secret anymore. ~~~

Welcome! to San Diego, California ...

Welcome! to San Diego, California ...

(By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - October 13, 2018)

Last Saturday on the 6th instant, my second cousin Pablito Valera Araneta came for a brief visit to San Diego, California. He is the eldest son of the late Barotac Nuevo-Iloilo former Mayor Mariano Cartagena Araneta and Dr. Estrella Valera- Araneta and a grandson of the 1898 Ilonggo revolutionary leader General Pablo Soriano Araneta of Molo, Iloilo City.

Pablito, the famed football Coach from Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo dubbed as the “Football Capital of the Philippines” was the former Provincial Board Member of the Fourth District of Iloilo and is presently Chairman of the Sports Committee of the Province. His brother Mariano “Nonong” Araneta, Jr. is the President of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF). On May 8, 2017 Nonong was elected during the 67th FIFA Congress in Manama, Bahrain to the FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) Council, the highest decision-making body in the football world.

Primo Pablits came together with his wife Susan Montilla-Araneta, Susan’s sister Millet and her hubby Rogie Ybañez.

During the joint birthday celebration of Marjorie Villareal, a scion of the illustrious Villareal Clan of Capiz province in the Philippines and the 12-year old Pia, only daughter of Nonong and Sheila Perez-Roxas, the guests of mostly Ilonggos at the home of our good buddy and generous host Bob Tran were all pleased to have the special guests around. Yes! Pablits rendered meaningful songs of the yesteryears with mucho gusto to the delight of the audience.

Other Ilonggo San Diegans who attended the very successful birthday bash were: Freddie Braga Abadiano with daughter Marijo A. Bedro and her son Andre. Freddie is the past President of the Ilonggo Association of Southern California (IASC), Inc.;

Christuping Baldonado came with his Leonor “forevermore” Delarmente and their daughter Audrey is her name; Ma’am Leonor  is the Prexy of the Ilonggo Nation Grupo San Diego, California;

Thelma the matriarch of the Jereza-Lopez clan came with her ever smiling teenage “Apo” Abbie Pagharion, and her multi-talented son Franz “Boboy” Jereza with his teenage son Josh. Boboy is the founder cum admin of the Ilonggo sa America FB Group;

Nazario “Tata” Biliran VI was with wifey Lora, their tall, dark and handsome teenage son Lorenz and daughter Nazalie, the six (6) years old pretty singing sensation; Edsel and Marichu Ruiz came with daughter Nomi the future Ilongga Olympic gymnastic champion. Adele D. Rivera came with two of her four Rivera boys Mick and Josh;

The Capiznon present were Rosa Amancio Dico, no relation to Deco’s Lapaz Batchoy, came with her three “K’s”; Kris the hubby, Kristoff the son and Kristyll the daughter; the family of Ferric and Judy Denaga Cabuhay; her sister Arlene with hubby Glenn Pangco and kids;

Maricel Besa Estillomo, a cousin of Marjorie came all the way from the land of the Shieks to attend the affair. She was escorted by Dr. Rodel Lim whose maternal ancestry came from Cuartero, Capiz. Many other guests were “Tumandok” or natives of Roxas City in Capiz that is undoubtedly, the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines”...

The brother and sister of Bob together with their spouses were also present to personally greet Marjorie and to grace the occasion.

I met a newfound pariente, Mike Colmenares, during the affair together with his wife the former Mae Higgens of Pali in Mandurriao, Iloilo City and their two polite young kids. Mike is the son of Angelo and grandson of Tita Letty Soriano and Jesus Colmenares, Sr. of Balasan, Iloilo who had served as Provincial Board Member of the Fifth District. The district Hospital in Balasan, Iloilo was named in his honor.

Kudos! to the group headed by the reliable Nonong B. Roxas who earlier volunteered to give Bob a helping hand in his predicament of moving into his new home, viz: The transfer of furniture and fixtures; household items and accessories plus his voluminous personal effects; the activation of the electrical connections and the plumbing system; the repair of minor damages and the clean-up of the interior and exterior portion of the house prior to Bob’s much awaited Marjorie’s arrival from the Philippines.

Thereafter, the appropriate decoration and preparation for the impending grand event --the joint birthday celebration. And for their invaluable services rendered “Gratis et Amore” credit goes to Nonong Roxas of course and to his inspiration he lovingly calls “Bing”; to the bachelor boy Nick Bobadilla the licensed Physical Therapist barkada who we fondly call “Bobadz”; to the Love-Team of BanVhan and Wella Perez-Alcazar and also si Akoh eh! nga nag tubong-tubong man bulig, diutay lang ugaling. Harakhak!!!

Salamuch! to our Ilonggo goup in sunny SanDie Californy, the bedimpled Ms.Cora Joy Hechanova and Ms. Cypress Lopez Jereza, a University of the Philippines - Iloilo City (UPIC) alumnus and active “Hamilia” member who guided her “Suon” Pablits and family during their San Diego in Southern California sojourn.

Welcome! and Thank you all! . . . Padayon! --dinggol.d~~~

In photo: Dinggol with daughter Adele together with his Primo Pablito and wife Susan Montilla-Araneta.

Ang Tatay-tatay sang Ilonggo Nation Grupo San Diego nagasugba kuno! Harakhak!!!

Joint Birthday celebration of Marjorie, the Queen of Mesa Brook and Princess Pia of Campo Galahad.

Executive Chef Bob with the Birthday Celebrant Marjorie and her cousin Maricel Besa Estillomo and Dr. Rodel Lim.

Four bespectacled gentlemen kuno! : Edsel Ruiz, Tuping Baldonado, Nonong Roxas and Nick “Bobads” Bobadilla with BanVhan Alcazar in camouflage shirt.

The seven Ilongga beauties (L-R): Wella Perez-Alcazar, Sheila Perez-Roxas, Leonor Delarmente, Marichu Ruiz, Thelma Lopez-Jereza, Adele Rivera and Rosa Amancio Dico.

SHABU THE CANCER OF PHILIPPINES SOCIETY

 

SHABU THE CANCER OF PHILIPPINES SOCIETY 

(By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia -October 12, 2018)

“In the early 1960's, during my Letran College years in Manila, I won in a debate with the proposition: "Should Capital Punishment Be Abolished?" - I took then, the affirmative side. Yes! it is better to acquit a hundred criminals, than to convict one innocent man...

Those were the days when the law on death penalty was still in effect. The era of marijuana, "make love not war", the Beatniks and the Beatles, and the last hurrah of our juvenile delinquency generation. The time when the word "Shabu" was unheard of.” --dinggol.d~~~

Crystal Methamphetamine popularly known as Meth or "Shabu" is a highly addictive, toxic, synthetic stimulant that causes euphoria, brain damage, psychosis, tooth decay, skin lesions, paranoia and death. This illegal artificial chemical drug compound, when taken frequently induces serious addiction. Once addicted, the normal person changes personality comparable to the famous novel and movie "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde".

The abrupt change of a normal human being into a dreaded monster with violent and destructive behavior. Their brain damaged because of shabu causes an uncontrollable urge to inflict harm or kill anyone even infants, including their very own family members.

Apparently, the wanton abundance of this deadly substance and rapid growth of it's users in our country today, is due to poverty of the many who take the risk retailing this illegal drugs for their livelihood. Likewise, this is brought about by greed for wealth of big time drug lords in connivance with many influential people, including our protectors; the police and the military, the elective local and national executives and government officials, even members of the legislative and judiciary.

Obviously, this "Cancer of Society" has reached an alarming pandemic proportion that necessitates an urgent major and concrete radical drastic action. 

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ oo0oo ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

“One of the fastest growing drug problems in the world is with ‘ice’ or crystal meth. It is known as “shabu” in the Philippines where official estimates suggest that about seven million people — almost 10 per cent of the population—use the drug.” – 

from Al Jazeera’s, The Shackles of Shabu 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~ oo0oo ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

Malacañang's bold decision to seriously eradicate rampant criminality, massive graft and corruption but most of all the acute drug menace, with unorthodox method, have proven more efficient and effective compared to our "slowpoke" failed justice system.

Of course, to the consternation of some "holier than thou" political detractors, members of the Clergy , the CHR, the UN, local and foreign media, who pretend to be the conscience of righteousness.

Perhaps, these people forgot that this was the "battle cry" during electoral campaign of the present national leadership that garnered 6.5 million majority votes; notwithstanding the alleged Smart electoral cheating by the powers that be.

It could not be denied, that a few collateral damage will certainly occur due to drastic measures; but then a great number of upright citizens shall be benefited. The safety and welfare of law-abiding citizens, is much, much more important than the lives of criminals.

Lastly, i'm inclined to differ my position now, on the issue of the death sentence due to the gravity of rampant horrible crimes committed daily under the influence of Shabu.

However, in my opinion the death penalty shall be reserved only for those who have committed and convicted beyond reasonable doubt of the most heinous crimes, such as; killers of innocent children, forcible rape with torture murderers, serial killers and cop slayers.

Likewise, death penalty should be imposed for the economic "technical" smugglers and government officials convicted of plunder, as these are considered economic sabotage that tantamount to treason; therefore, duly deserves the capital punishment .... death penalty! 

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~oo0oo ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

The Philippines is on their way to becoming like Colombia

" ... The Golden Triangle (Laos, Burma, Thailand) became a major narcotics center as Chinese Nationalist troops fled to the region after their defeat in China, and not long after, as the CIA helped implement the drug flow as part of its effort to recruit a mercenary clandestine army of highland tribesmen for its counterinsurgency operations in Laos.

Over the years, the drug traffic came to involve other U.S. clients as well. In 1989, General Ramón Montano, chief of the Philippine constabulary, testified in a public hearing in Manila that drug syndicates operating in the Golden Triangle use the Philippines as a trans-shipment point to other parts of Asia and the West, and conceded that military officers are involved, as a Senate investigation had reported. The Philippines is on their way to becoming like Colombia. One Senator observed. ...."

The Philippine Genocide of 1899

 

The Philippine Genocide of 1899

(By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - October 5, 2018)

“The Philippine genocide of 1899 happened because of a prayer to God!” --dinggol.d~~~

American writer and anti-imperialist league leader Mark Twain wrote:

“…I have seen that we do not intend to free, but to subjugate the people of the Philippines. We have gone to conquer, not to redeem… and so i am an anti-imperialist. I am opposed to having the american eagle put its talons on any other land.”

On 15th of October 1900 Twain wrote the New York Times.

“We have pacified some thousands of the islanders and buried them; destroyed their fields; burned their villages, and turned their widows and orphans out-of-doors; furnished heartbreak by exile to some dozens of disagreeable patriots; subjugated the remaining ten millions by Benevolent Assimilation, which is the pious new name of the musket; we have acquired property in the three hundred concubines and other slaves of our business partner, the Sultan of Sulu, and hoisted our protecting flag over that swag. And so, by these providences of God — and the phrase it is the government’s, not mine — we are a World Power.” — Mark Twain

Mark Twain also spoke of the almost universal racism of the white American troops and politicians he called them shameless. He was deeply disturbed by the sadistic war crimes that were committed by the American troops. He suggested that the stars and stripes on the American flag should be replaced by a skull and cross bone.

Was it American policy to kill as many Filipinos as possible? Brigadier General J. Franklin Bell wrote “With a very few exceptions, practically the entire population has been hostile to us at heart,” so there is no doubt the Americans saw every Filipino as the enemy.

The USA carried out a scorched earth campaign in burning and destroying villages, they also tuned villages into concentration camps where they burnt the land around them and built watch towers that looked over the free-fire zones, anyone trying to leave the village was shot. They called these concentration camps “reconcentrados”.

The reconcentrados (concentration camps) were full of disease which caused a very high death rate the death rate in some camps was as high as 20%. One camp was 2 miles long by 1 mile wide and was the prison for 8,000 Filipinos. Men were often rounded up to be questioned using torture if they gave the Americans the information they wanted or not did not matter as they were still shot.

A soldier from New York wrote:

“The town of Titatia was surrendered to us a few days ago, and two companies occupy the same. Last night one of our boys was found shot and his stomach cut open.

Immediately orders were received from General Wheaton to burn the town and kill every native in sight; which was done to a finish. About 1,000 men, women and children were reported killed. I am probably growing hard-hearted, for I am in my glory when I can sight my gun on some dark skin and pull the trigger”

Corporal Sam Gillis wrote “We make everyone get into his house by seven p.m., and we only tell a man once. If he refuses we shoot him. We killed over 300 natives the first night. They tried to set the town on fire. If they fire a shot from the house we burn the house down and every house near it, and shoot the natives, so they are pretty quiet in town now.”

A British eye witness in the Philippines said:

“This is not war; it is simply massacre and murderous butchery.”

Why the Philippines Genocide happened? It all happened because of a prayer to god.

President McKinley was in the White House praying when he claimed it came to him that he could not give the Philippines back to Spain as that would look cowardly.

McKinley said he did not want the Philippines. But then one night in the White House, when he was down on his knees praying to God, it came to him:

That we could not give them back to Spain – that would be cowardly.

He could not let France and Germany have the Philippines as that would be bad for business.

He could not let the Filipinos rule themselves as he considered them incapable.

So he decided America should take the whole Philippines rather than just Manila which is all they had at the time, educate the people and Christianize them, something the Spanish had already done to many of the people for almost 400 years.

So in 1899 the U.S.A. declared war on the Philippines as a way to educate, Christianize and civilize the people; thus, the Philippines Genocide began.

A travesty of history, a diplomatic faux pas

It should be noted, that there was no formal "Declaration of War" between two conflicting sovereign nations, the USA and the Estado Federal de Bisayas (EFB). The global armed confrontation was the Spanish-American War that did not involved in any way the EFB, a separate, distinct and an independent legitimate sovereign nation. This was brought about by Spain's "formal" surrender earlier to the Visayan Federal Republic based in Iloilo.

On the contrary, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldos' government whose authority and jurisdiction had never truly included the territories of Central and Western Visayas under the Estado Federal de Bisayas (spearheaded by the Ilonggos), could still be considered "subject" under the Spanish crown because although his revolutionary forces were successful in several encounters, he really never formally won the war against Spain.

His opportunity was derailed by the betrayal of his erstwhile American trusted allies during the 13th of August, 1898 "Mock Battle of Manila" in Intramuros--

The invasion of the Ilonggo Nation

On December 27, 1898 - A few days after Spain's formal surrender and the Federal Republic of the Visayas based in Iloilo became independent; thus, achieved the status as a sovereign Nation --a 3,000-strong American military force led by Gen. Marcus Miller arrived in four US warships (USS: Baltimore, Boston, Concord and Petrel) to Iloilo harbor in Fort San Pedro to demand the surrender of the City. Several negotiations were made but the Ilonggos vehemently refused to surrender their battle scarred freedom and legitimate independence and stood their ground. On February 14, 1899 - After about a week of continued naval bombardment, American troops led by Gen. Robert Hughes landed at Fort San Pedro in Iloilo and took the City by storm. Thus; began another ilonggo war, this time against American invaders. (Excerpted from: The Philippine-American War as Race War; by Paul A. Kramer) "...This point was also made at Senate hearings in 1902, when General Hughes described the burning of entire towns by advancing U.S. troops as a means of "punishment, " ---U.S Senator Rawlins inquired: "But is that within the ordinary rules of civilized warfare?" General Hughes replied succinctly: "These people are not civilized."Gen. Robert Hughes admitted he ordered the burning of villages and murder of women and children but he reasoned out that his victims were "not civilized." Describing the Filipinos in racist terms as "Chinese half-breeds" ..."

The Assassination of President William McKinley

William McKinley, the 25th U.S. President whose popularity was heightened by the victory of the United States in the Spanish-American war, was easily returned to a second term in the election of 1900.

However, in September 1901 or less than a year of his second term as U.S. president, his life was cut short by an assassin's bullet delivered during the Pan-American Exposition at Buffalo in New York. A slim, 28-year-old man named Leon Czolgosz fired twice. The first bullet bounced off McKinley's chest. The second ripped through his stomach. He lingered for eight days finally succumbing to gangrene and infection on September 14, 1901. ~~~

WILLIAM MCKINLEY, the 25th President of the United State of America (USA)

The J.M. Basa Street in the City of Iloilo, Philippines

The J.M. Basa Street in the City of Iloilo, Philippines

(By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - September 28, 2018)

"J. M. Basa Street, situated at the heart of downtown Iloilo City, has been considered as the shopping center of Iloilo. In the past, it was popularly known as "Calle Real." --Let us change J. M. Basa Street to "Calle Real de Iloilo" . . . Now!!! --dinggol.d~~~

But who is Jose Maria Basa? -What significant role did he contribute to warrant naming Iloilo City's premium thoroughfare to honor his memory?

With malice towards none, but in fairness to all concerned most especially to the Ilonggos, here's a brief backgrounder: Jose Maria Basa was born in Manila and was a well known merchant during the Spanish colonial occupation. He was ALLEGEDLY (Capitalized for emphasis) involved in the revolutionary movement in Cavite during the time when the three Filipino Priest Martyrs, namely: Mariano Gomez, Jose Apolonio Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora (GOMBURZA) were executed by garrote in Bagumbayan on February 17, 1872 .

J. M. Basa was exiled in Hongkong where he helped many Filipinos to stay at his home and one of his guests was his close friend, Dr. Jose Rizal.

Meanwhile, in Hongkong Jose Ma. Basa joined Felipe Agoncillo and Mariano Ponce in the Revolutionary Council organized by Filipino patriot Edilberto Evangelista. Later, Evangelista and Agoncillo became part of the group in the Hongkong Committee of La Solidaridad headed by Galicano Apacible, which advocated Philippine Independence. The opposing Filipino group was led by Jose Maria Basa and Doroteo Cortes, who were for annexation by the United States.

Hamak mo ran banwa! abi binag-binaga! wara pa tani umpisa inaway (Filipino-American War), apin na sanda sa pangontra!

We have our very own 1898 Ilonggo Revolutionary leaders that were natives of Iloilo City who offered their lives in the fields of battle fighting against foreign aggression, namely: Gen. Roque Lopez (First President of the Estado Federal de Bisayas); Gen. Pablo S. Araneta (Commanding General of the Panay Revolutionary Forces); Gen. Angel Corteza of Molo; Patrocinio “Tia Patro” Gamboa of Jaro kag iban pa!

And even during modern times; former Iloilo Congressman Pascualing Espinosa, is recorded in the annals of history as the "Father of the Magna Carta of Philippine Labor", whose applicable laws are now being enjoyed by millions of Filipino workers. Or even the Ilonggo nationalist and a great labor leader Jose Ma. Nava. These patriots, nga mga “tumandok” gid mismo sang Ciudad sang Iloilo, does not even have a small alley named to honor their memories. Why? oh why? oh why? --why Jose Ma. Basa ukon J. M. Basa gid! wala gani ina siya siguro nakatapak sa Iloilo (He might not had even stepped on Iloilo’s soil) --Que Barbaridad!!!

According to Ilonggo Nation Movement (INM) Co-Founder Agurang Benjie Estuche: “.. Jose Ma. Basa was part of the 1st Philippine Commission which was later replaced by the 2nd PC also known as the Taft Commission as appointed by President Mckinley. The 2nd Philippine Commission which was tasked with the dismantling of the "friarocracy" and the "encomiendas" had Ilonggos in its board of directors that included Jose Ma. Luzurriaga of Negros, Don Gregorio Araneta of Molo, Iloilo City and presumably, Benito Legarda.

Since Iloilo had been occupied by the Americans after the siege of Port San Pedro and subsequent developments had been instituted, the naming of the streets in the City proper was possibly based on the whims and caprices of the occupying forces and, naturally, the pro-Americans were given priority over others. Gen. Hughes which is an extension of the J.M. Basa was named after the general who ordered the bombings to Gen. Miller that burned and ravaged about 10,000 residential houses within the vicinity of Port San Pedro despite the warnings made by Atty. Raymundo Melliza, legal adviser to the revolutionary forces in Panay, that most of the buildings along the pier was owned by foreigners.

Anyways, most of those that were appointed to the 1st and 2nd commissions were of Spanish ancestry except, possibly, Juan Sumulong which was of Chinese ethnicity and was closed to the ecclesiastical heirarchy of Manila.

It must be remembered also that the Filipino-American War happened only after the Treaty of Paris when the US had already full control of the country and the revolutionaries were those that were identified with the landed interests and beneficiaries of the dismantling of the encomiendas.

It must also be remembered that Panay and Negros Islands were spared from the land reform as per 2nd Philippine Commission's act of legislation (PC Act 1120) and had instead transferred to the incoming Philippine Legislature the implementation of land distribution...”

On the other hand, we are aware of a House Bill authored by former Iloilo City Congressman Raul Trinidad Gonzales, Jr. that was initiated in the Iloilo City Council by then Councilor Jed Patrick Locsin Escalante Mabilog; the renaming of the entire stretch of M.H. Del Pilar and Gen. Luna Streets (both from Luzon) to Sen. Rodolfo T. Ganzon Avenue. Toto Roding the “Timawa” idol has done so much to his beloved City of Iloilo. He deserves it! . . But did this renaming materialized? ~~~

The old Calle Real de Iloilo.

Photo of Jose Ma. Basa while in Hongkong.

J. M. Basa Street in Downtown Iloilo City.

THE ILOILO CITY FREEDOM GRANDSTAND

THE ILOILO CITY FREEDOM GRANDSTAND 

(By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - September 21,2018)

Brief History: 

As Congressman (1953-1955) of the Second District of Iloilo Province that included Iloilo City and Guimaras island, the “Timawa” idol Rodolfo "Roding" Ganzon of Molo, Iloilo City authored and sponsored the "Iloilo City Freedom Law" (Republic Act 1209) which restored to the people of Arevalo, Jaro, La Paz, Manduriao, Molo and Iloilo City Proper their constitutional right to elect their own Mayor, Vice-Mayor and Councilors.

As the first elective Iloilo City Mayor (1955-1959), Ganzon built a modest grandstand within Sunburst Park, renamed "Freedom Park" fronting the old Iloilo Custom House, popularly known as "Aduana" --as a concrete memorial to the new found political freedom of City residents.

In 1992, Mayor Mansueto "Mansing" Malabor renovated the grandstand into a gigantic Iloilo City Freedom Grandstand, that adversely affected the impressive view of the old Iloilo Custom House.

They began after the demolition of "Kantina ng Bayan" eateries and native products display booths in Freedom Park, operated by the Iloilo Walking Corp./Iloilo Walkers Club under the presidency of Dinggol A. Divinagracia, in joint venture with the Iloilo City Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (ICCMPC), Inc. headed by Dr. Sergio Maravilla Gonzalez.

Relocation is the name of the game! 

With the rapid growth of "La Muy Leal y Noble Ciudad de Iloilo" and the no-holds-bar of becoming into a first class modern megalopolis in the very near future, many believed that the present site is too congested and that it had already outlived it's purpose and has to be relocated ASAP to a more appropriate location.

A New Horizon: 

Undoubtedly, the success of SM City, Smallville, the Ayala's ATRIA, Florete's Plazuela, the high rise INJAP Tower, the huge Megaworld and Gaisano Projects and many others in Barangay San Rafael, Barangay Bakhaw and Barangay Airport, all in the district of Mandurriao, triggered massive commercial expansion and tourism attraction including the peripheral areas.

It is in this context, that perhaps, the proposed relocation site of the Iloilo City Freedom Grandstand shall be along the Villa Beach, an area within "La Villa Rica de Arevalo", the historical root of our beloved Ciudad de Iloilo.

Moreover, this would initiate the grand plan reclamation project and envisioned boulevard as venue for Paraw Regatta, Fluvial Sto. Niño procession, Re-enactment of the early arrival in Aninipay (Panay) of our adventurous sea-faring ancestors that inspired Ati-Atihan in Aklan, Iloilo’s Dinagyang, Halaran in Capiz, Antique’s Binirayan and for many other future historical and cultural festivities.

Political Will:  

Negative reaction for clearing the entire populated area shall certainly be encountered from the "vote-rich" informal settlers within the vicinity. It is imperative, therefore, that a compromise agreement be negotiated by and between the City government and the legitimate organized residents association therein.

Perhaps! a high-rise tenement housing project could be constructed within the area on a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) program to accommodate the squatters and to be managed by bona fide Barangay Officials as approved by the contracted builders and the City government.

Padayon, Ciudad sang Iloilo! ~~~

The Political Spectrum: WHERE DO YOU BELONG?

The Political Spectrum: WHERE DO YOU BELONG? 

 (By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - September 14, 2018)

“President Rodrigo Roa Duterte openly admitted recently that institutionalized corruption in government and the malignant cancer of society known as “Shabu” seems to be totally uncontrollable and endless.

This deplorable state the nation is the foremost reason for mass poverty, widespread criminality and continued insurgency.

He floats his plan to create a Military Junta to combat these maladies that now confronts our people but to the consternation of many upright citizens, who believe this tantamount to a “martial law” regime leading to a one-man rule" -- dinggol.d~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ oo0oo ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Filipinos of today, wherever they may be, belong to either one of these three categories:

1) The ok! sige lang . . . 2) The wala akong paki??? 3) The tama na!.. sobra!!!

I - THE SIGE LANG..

A- The first group are those who at all cost shall do anything and everything to preserve the status quo. With rampant graft and corruption in all levels of government, they never had it sooooo good!

1) The Oligarchy: the modern day illustrados, control the economy and big media outlets; brainwashing engine targeting the vulnerable masa. More often than not also controls the political landscape in their respective fiefdom. It is common knowledge that these few big landlords circumvented the laws at the expense of the many poor farmers; deprived of their land, life and dignity due to legal maneuvers, just so these vultures of society could expand their "Emperium Negosiurum".

2) The Nouveau Riche: Mostly high ranking government officials and their kins who provided for their future during the heydays of martial law and the present day smart alecks (illegal operators) with right connect. See their big businesses and palatial homes, in the exclusive enclaves around the country, even abroad.

3) The Political Dynasties: The "Pseudo Royalties -The patriarch is "King Senator/Congressman", the matriarch is "Queen Governor", their siblings or children "Prince/ss Mayor" their spouse/s, "Prince/ss Board Members/Councilors" etc -Other members of the family occupies top local/national administrative positions . Their favorite dance "Rigodon de Familia" everytime elective tenure expires. While their constituents, pobresitos and pobresitas.

4) The Traditional Politicians: These "trapos" believe in the dictum "sometimes you win; sometimes you loss". Behind the political cloud the sun also rises. The political merry-go-round spins like the windmill of their mind never ending, nor beginning. But the perpetual poverty of their constituents remain.

It is regrettable, indeed, that even idealistic officers of the law, those who have steadfastly avoided the "ogres" that had swallowed Filipino society; sometimes have no choice but to follow the whims and caprices of the aforementioned group against the "taong bayan" because of their sworn duties to uphold. While those brute "Moonlighters" always serve their masters blindly.

B- The second group are what we call the "Baka Sakali" .These people are still hoping against hope for a miracle of a clean, honest and orderly election to come. Por Dios por Santos! With all the present moral decadence and spiritual maladies that afflicts our nation; the blatant vote selling (placard bearing in slum areas); the systematic vote buying and even the technical electoral machine cheating at iba pa! When will you realize its futility? That's what we call "Suntok sa buwan, jab sa langit" or in latingo lingo (latin-ilonggo), "Asalom Tubolum".

II- "THE WALANG PAKI??" This group, I hope does not comprise the majority of our "kababayan" who see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil. They are comfortably contented, mindless of the apathy and injustice around them and prefer to play stupidly safe. Bahala na! Their favorite song "Que sera, sera" Whatever will be will be. The truth of the matter they are the cowards of the country. The hotest spot in hell is reserve for this kind of people with no conviction.

III- "THE TAMA NA!!!"

A- The first group comprises the young and the young once from all sectors of Filipino society including OFWs' and advantaged Filipino expatriates with patriotic fervor, who silently shed their blood, sweat and tears to keep Philippine economy afloat. This group are feed-up and wanted a change by whatever means as long as for the betterment of the Filipino People.

B- The second group are the armed components in the Philippines:

1) The MILF/MNLF: The military arm of our muslim brothers in the south is a force to reckon with. They have been fighting for decades to preserve their religious patrimony and the cultural identity of the Bangsa Moro Nation. They should be led not by the "has beens" but by modern day "Salahadins".

But they should bear in mind, that majority of the populace in Mindanao are non muslim and although sometimes they cannot see eye-to-eye, they should always walk hand-in-hand as Filipino brothers.

History explained that if not for the "discovery" by the Spanish conquistadores armed with the bible, the sword and the cross and with the Manifest Destiny of Uncle Sam; they could have retained and expanded sovereignty over the whole archipelago this side of Asia.

2) The Military Reformist:

While some who have tasted power during the martial law era and were swallowed by the ogres of the System wanted "the return of the comeback!" sabi dah! to sing "Happy days are here again" there are still others who are seriously taking things with noble purpose. If we could blend the vim, vigor and vitality of these idealistic young officers in active duty with the experience and wisdom of likewise, idealistic retired officers who had tried hard but nonetheless failed to cure the "Cancer of Filipino Society" what a relief it would be.

3) The NDF-CPP-NPA: The seemingly never ending struggle for national democracy of our brothers from the left shall only be supported by majority of their kababayans if and when they abruptly renounce the 'Godless Foreign Ideology", that is gradually fading in the global scene.

In short: NDF, maybe! - NPA, perhaps! - but CPP, a "BIG NO!!" NEVER! The question: why wage war with the lowly soldiers and policemen just doing their duties? Why not with the "ogres" themselves? I wonder why? I really wonder why?..

Instead of fighting each other, since you share common objective: to defeat the "ogres" and reform society, why not do your patriotic duty and offer these few "incorrigible" in the altar of righteousness. It would be hypocritical to say you do not know these people, for sure you do.

To sacrifice "simultaneously" about 10 in every Region is relatively very low compared to the millions of Filipinos who shall be benefited. And more importantly, the impact to discipline the whole Filipino Nation, including the present and future governmental dispensation.

Yes, mga kababayan "Discipline is the name of the game"... and very soon! ... or forever perish as a people.

Where do you belong? ~~~ 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ oo0oo ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THE FIRST “ILONGGO” MOTORCYCLE CLUB

 

THE FIRST “ILONGGO” MOTORCYCLE CLUB 

 (By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - September 7, 2018)

"Sometime during circa 1948-49, a group of affluent Ilonggos who owned a Harley Davidson Motorcycle popularly known as "Harley" got together and organized the "exclusive" Panay Motorcycle Club (PMC) in Iloilo City, Philippines." --dinggol.d~~~

Panay Motorcycle Club (PMC) was headed by Benjamin "Nonoy" Javellana of Jaro, Iloilo City. The PMC members maintained a Club House they called "CALI" at the ground floor of Javellana Building along Ledesma Street very near Plazoleta Gay in downtown Iloilo. 

The officers and members of PMC included; Arturo "Turingoy" Araneta, Joaquin "Jack" Quimsing, Ben Pineda, Jesus "Jessie" Clemente, Beltran "Binggot" Zulueta, Leon Nava, Rudy Gorres, Angel Magahum, Ramonit Lopez, David Doronila, Agapito Lavado, Mamerto Sobrepeña, Benjamin "Ben" Macairan, David Geonanga, Osias “Osing” Jereza, Rene Solinap, Francisco Daban, Sr. and later on, his young son Francis, Jr. (the famed Ilonggo motorbike stuntman) and other younger Harley bikers joined them. (my apologies to those not mentioned due to senior intellectual interlude.)

In the later part of the 1950's, the members of the Panay Motorcycle Club decided to transfer their Clubhouse by the Iloilo River along Gen. Luna Street near the University of San Agustin. When the old guards later, became rather inactive to concentrate more on their respective fields of endeavor; but other say due to "Mahina na ang tuhod"; a new breed of motorbike enthusiasts came along sporting different motorcycle brands. Under the able leadership of President Ramonit Lopez, the name of the association of Ilonggo motorbike riders was changed to Iloilo Motorcycle Club (IMC) Rough Riders.

While some original PMC members were still active then, many newbie Sportsmen in Iloilo joined the Club. More popular among them were: Tirso “Tersing” Jamandre, Agustin “Gus” Asencio, Freddie Portillo, Arthur "Tong" Somo, Oscar “Oca” Nava, Jr., Taden Caperonce, Joe Uy, Candido Golez, Vero Paloma, Peps Oro, Edwin Daban, Nelson Barredo, Felipe and Buddy Dolar, the sons of Ramonit Lopez, the Acdol brothers and many others.

Today, the “Torch” of Iloilo Motorcycle Club once upon a time headed by Ramonit Lopez is under the leadership of Francis Daban, Jr. the living ilonggo motorbike legend.

Yes! it is very much alive and vrooming with the support of Joselito “Bebot” Garcera, Cezar Mercado, Jr. , Oca Nava, and others who are actively zooming around the nation as a group of Ilonggo motorbike riders displaying proudly the Iloilo Motorcycle Club distinctive emblem and banner.

Padayon! Vroooooommmm!!! ~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ oo0oo ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Weep Like a Woman!

Weep Like a Woman!

(By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - August 31, 2018)

 

“With the impending Federalism on the horizon, and the return to political power of the “small but terrible” Ilongga-at-heart; we have an epidemic of insecure people in our society today. “ --dinggol.d~~~

Excerpted:

“. . . . By ignominiously fleeing from the seat of power, Erap gave the Supreme Court the excuse to concoct what only Filipino lawyers could have invented, namely that he had "constructively resigned"from the presidency, thus justifying swearing in his vice-president, Gloria Arroyo, as the new president.

Barely five months later, in May 2001, another unarmed mob descended on Erap’s former Alhambra, egged on by the likes of Juan Ponce Enrile and Miriam Defensor-Santiago, this time seeking the "constructive resignation" of Gloria.

But unlike the easily frightened Rajah Erap, the steely-nerved Gloria, who has all the intimidating persona of a Girl Scout selling cookies, stood her ground and, in effect, stared the mob eyeball-to-eyeball until they blinked.....”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ oo0oo ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Weep like a Woman!

By the year 1482, the Moorish caliphate in the Iberian Peninsula (what is now Spain and Portugal ) had shrunk to a small perimeter around the city of Granada in southeastern Spain.

At its zenith, the Muslim armies from North Africa that had invaded the Iberian Peninsula in the years 711 to 718 AD, had conquered most of what are now Spain and Portugal, and had sallied forth into France, where they were finally defeated and driven back by Christian armies led by Charles Martel in the Battle of Tours in the year 732. AD.

The Muslim occupation of Spain and Portugal lasted for several centuries leaving an indelible imprint on Iberian culture and civilization. To this day, many modern Europeans sniff that "Africa begins at the Pyrenees ."

But by the end of the first millennium (1000 AD), incessant quarrels and fighting among Muslim chieftains – a common enough phenomenon that persists to the 21st century – allowed the Christian kingdoms to fight back and recover lost ground.

By the year 1482, the Christians had re-conquered the kingdoms of Toledo , Sevilla and Cordoba .. In the year 1492, when the Italian navigator Christopher Columbus – Cristobal Colon – was sent by the Spanish king on his epochal voyage to the Americas , the Christian kingdoms of Aragon and Castille, reunited by the marriage of their sovereigns, Ferdinand and Isabella, fielded their combined armies and defeated the quarreling Muslims in Granada.

The last Muslim caliph in Iberia , Boabdil, was sent weeping into exile back to North Africa . Legend has it that his aged mother bitterly reproached him: "Weep like a woman for the city you would not defend like a man."

Seven years ago, on a scale not quite as grandiose as the events that unfolded in Iberia in 1492, a pretentious rajah – historically the inheritor of the Muslim outpost of Maynilad – also gave up his throne on the banks of the Pasig River as a band of unarmed street demonstrators noisily descended on his Alhambra.

His son, the Datu Jinggoy, was weeping openly, and Rajah Erap was teary-eyed, as they and their entourage boarded a motor launch to the rear of their Alhambra that would take them to the relative safety of not quite North Africa, but their scruffy ancestral fiefdom of San Juan.

History did not record Erap’s aged mother saying anything quotable during the Teary Escape, but she could just as justifiably have uttered the same humiliating lines hurled at Boabdil in 1492: "Weep like a woman for the city you would not defend like a man."

Whatever happened to Filipino Machismo so often personified – or so I am told – by Erap in his Tagalog movies? Why did he not stand his ground and defend his Alhambra to the death? What was he so afraid of from an undisciplined but unarmed mob?

He had his heavily armed Presidential Security Group Janissaries, backed up by armored personnel carriers, who would have sent the unarmed mob scurrying for cover with a few shots fired in the air. They may have stopped being under the command of Erap after AFP Chief-of-staff Gen. Angelo Reyes had "withdrawn his support," but surely Erap’s magic would still have worked wonders with the masa of whom the soldiers were a part...

By ignominiously fleeing from the seat of power, Erap gave the Supreme Court the excuse to concoct what only Filipino lawyers could have invented, namely that he had "constructively resigned" from the presidency, thus justifying swearing in his vice-president, Gloria Arroyo, as the new president.

Barely five months later, in May 2001, another unarmed mob descended on Erap’s former Alhambra , egged on by the likes of Juan Ponce Enrile and Miriam Defensor-Santiago, this time seeking the "constructive resignation" of Gloria.

But unlike the easily frightened Rajah Erap, the steely-nerved Gloria, who has all the intimidating persona of a Girl Scout selling cookies, stood her ground and, in effect, stared the mob eyeball-to-eyeball until they blinked.

By hastily abandoning the seat of power without a fight in January 2001, Erap showed himself to be a coward, the exact opposite of the two-fisted Macho Man he liked to portray in his movies and, no doubt, his personal fantasies.

Of course, Rajah Erap was following in the footsteps of another Filipino Macho Man, Rajah Ferdinand, who famously but falsely promoted himself as the Most Decorated Filipino Soldier in World War II, with most of his medals awarded to himself decades after the War, when he was already senator……who also abandoned the seat of power without a fight in February 1986.

Erap says Jan. 20, 2001 was the "death of democracy in the Philippines ." That would have been convincing had he stood his ground and fought heroically to the death.

Instead, he "weeps like a woman for the city he was not man enough to defend."

(The issue of above Jan. 22, 2008 article by Antonio C. Abaya was forwarded to INM Banwa_Mo eGroup of the Ilonggo Nation Movement)

----------------------------------oo0oo--------------------------------

The Power Behind the Throne (Kuno!)

 The Power Behind the Throne (Kuno!)

(By: DinggolAranetaDivinagracia - August 4, 2018)  

“Behind the success or failure of Filipino leaders; be it their family, close friends or their associates who had greatly influenced their fate for history was a Bisaya and/or an Ilonggo.” --dinggol.d~~~

* Mactan Chieftain Lapu Lapu a.k.a. Cilapulapo

Cebu King Rajah Humabon and Datu Zula collaborated with the Spaniards under Ferdinand Magellan to kill Lapu Lapu. In the ensuing battle of Mactan, Magellan was slain and Lapu Lapu became our foremost warrior hero for his bold armed resistance against foreign aggression and domination.

* Cebu King Datu Tupas Kamparang

Boholano leaders Datu Sikatuna and Datu Sigala, as token of friendship with Don Miguel Lopez de Legaspi performed the blood compact ritual.

Thereafter, they aided the conquistadores to invade Cebu. The Spanish led invasion was victorious and Datu Tupas agreed to pay tributes for protection from the victors. This was the first recorded "Protection Racket" in Philippine history.

The “El Adelantado” Miguel Lopez de Legspi then later established the first permanent Spanish settlement on the island of Cebu. Thus, began the colonization of the whole archipelago with the bible, the cross and the sword. King Tupas son by his wife Hupay was baptized as Carlos Tupas.

* Philippine National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal of Laguna

Graciano Lopez Jaena of Jaro in Iloilo City, together with Jose P. Rizal and Marcelo H. del Pilar composed the great triumvirate of the Propaganda Movement in Spain during the late 1800's. Lopez Jaena was the founder of the La Solidaridad, the organ of the propaganda movement that ignited the spark of the 1896 armed revolution against Spain.

* Katipunan Supremo Andres Bonifacio of Manila

In 1895, the Katipunan bought an old hand-press with the money generously donated by new KKK recruits Francisco del Castillo and Candido Iban of Aklan, then part of Capiz who returned to the country after working as shell and pearl divers in Australia with some lottery winnings. Later, they were both commissioned by the Supremo to organize a Katipunan chapter in their home province. Both were killed in action during the early part of the revolution.

* President Emilio Famy Aguinaldo of Kawit, Cavite

Don Gregorio Soriano Araneta, a Lawyer of Molo, Iloilo City as advised by Apolinario Mabini became the Secretary General of the Malolos Congress and led in framing the Constitution of the First Philippine Republic under General Emilio F. Aguinaldo as President. Later, Araneta became the first Philippine Secretary of Finance, Justice and Solicitor General under the American regime.

*President Manuel Luis Quezon of Tayabas (Now Quezon Province)

His Vice President was Sergio Osmeña of Cebu, while Jorge B. Vargas of Bago in Negros Occidental was his Executive Secretary. Vargas was one of the most loyal and trusted aide of the President that he was called by Bureaucrats and media as “Little President”.

President Quezon’s daughter, María Zenaida "Nini" Quezon -a widow re-married to Alberto Avanceña, son of Chief Justice Ramon Avanceña of Arevalo, Iloilo and Proserfina Abad of Leyte.

* President Sergio Osmeña of Cebu

The post WWII president who took over the reins of government on February 1945 was a Bisaya from Cebu of Chinese descent. His son Serging married an ilongga named Lourdes de la Rama, daughter of Don Esteban dela Rama of Molo, Iloilo City.

* President Jose P. Laurel of Tanauan, Batangas

World War II Japanese appointed President; a risky decision to accept a difficult position in a very precarious situation. His son Salvador "Doy" married Celia Diaz of the Bacolod Locsin Clan. And another son Mariano married Alice of the Iloilo Yulo Clan.

* President Manuel Acuña Roxas of Capiz

The capital Roxas City --of Capiz province in Panay island was named after him. He married Trinidad de Leon of Bulacan; hence, his Capizeña sweetheart, the ilongga operatic diva Jovita Fuentes was broken hearted and echoed her sentiments in the immortal ilonggo folk song “Ay ay kalisod, kalisod ining binaya-an..”

President Manuel A. Roxas son, the late Senator “Gerry” Roxas married Judy Araneta Araneta of the old rich Ilonggo family in Bago City, Negros Occidental.

* President Elpidio Rivera Quirino of Ilocus Sur

His Bisaya Senate President, Jose Avelino of Samar, one of the few Filipino politicians at that time censured for his dealings; in reply to question on widespread corruption in government, cynically asked, "What are we in power for? We are not hypocrites. Why should we pretend to be saints when in reality we are not? . . .

*President Ramon del Fierro Magsaysay of Iba, Zambales

Ramon Magsaysay was born in Iba, Zambales to Ezequiel Magsaysay, a blacksmith, and Perfecta del Fierro, a school teacher of Visayan descent. His daughter Milagros married Cezar Infante Valenzuela of Valladolid in Negros Occidental.

President Carlos P. Garcia of Bohol

A Bisaya from Talibon, Bohol. President Carlos P. Garcia’s administration was anchored in his austerity program. His bold attempt to boost the Philippines economic independence with the nationalistic "Filipino First Policy" caught the ire of Multi-National Giants and he lost the propaganda war against the big global Business interests.

*President Diosdado Macapagal of Pampanga

He entrusted Ilonggo Rufino“Feny”Gamboa Hechanova of Jaro in Iloilo City with the Cabinet positions of Executive Secretary, Finance Secretary, Press Secretary, and also Secretary of Trade and Industry... not necessarily in that order. Justice Calixto Zaldivar of Antique, likewise served as his Executive Secretary.

The family of this Pampangueño who styled himself as the “poor boy” from Lubao, evidently love ilonggos. His son the low-profile Arturo married Mariter Lacson Jalandoni of Iloilo City while small but terrible daughter Gloria married Mike Tuason Arroyo of Binalbagan, Negros Occidental. 

 *President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos of Ilocus Norte

After a whirlwind courtship he married the Visayan Beauty, the Rose of Tacloban City, Leyte named Imelda who belong to the Romualdez clan. Their son BongBong Marcos married Lawyer Liza Cacho Araneta of the Araneta clan - Negros Branch while their youngest daughter Irene married Greggy, a scion of the Araneta clan-Iloilo Branch.

Under his administration served, the "Yin and Yang" of the Salas-Montinola cousins of Negros, namely; Roberto "Nonoy Bobby" Benedicto and Rafael "Toto Cay" Salas, who also both belong to the Araneta bloodline.

*President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino of Tarlac

When "Ninoy" became a dream and "Cory" the reality after Ilonggo Prelate Jaime Cardinal Sin incited EDSA-I revolt, she depended to the ilonggos; Franklin M. Drilon as her Executive Secretary; Justice Raul M. Gonzales as Tanodbayan (Ombudsman) and Solicitor General Frank Chavez of Bacolod to face the tentacles of the deposed dictator. 

President Fidel Valdez Ramos of Pangasinan

Married to the dainty and demure Ilongga Amelita Jara Martinez of Lapaz, Iloilo City. Mr. "Tabako" was a principal figure in toppling his second cousin Ferdinand’s dictatorial regime. Our Inday Meriam and many others, however, are still doubtful of Apo Fidel V. Ramos "Brown-Out" presidency.

* President Joseph Ejercito Estrada of San Juan, Metro Manila

His favorite connection, among others is his "Guiding Lady" from Bacolod City --Guia Gomez, now Mayor of San Juan City in Metro Manila. Their son J.V. Ejercito now serves as Senator. Erap’s only daughter with Dra. Loi, Jacqueline "Jackie Estrada" Ejercito’s estranged husband was Manuel "Beaver" Lopez Jr. a scion of the super rich ilonggo Lopez family.

*President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo of Pampanga

 

Her first and only Gentleman is Miguel “Mike” Tuason Arroyo of Binalbagan, Negros Occidental. Mike is a great grandson of 1898 revolutionary leader and the only Presidente of the short - lived Negros Republic; Gen. Aniceto Ledesma Lacson and his first wife Rosario Emilia Araneta.

Her ardent backer was the late ilonggo Justice Secretary Raul M. Gonzales and her defenders in Congress were the Defensors of Iloilo. While with "Joc-Joc" Bolante of Capiz, a thorn in her throat.

*President Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Cojuangco Aquino

His Senate President was Ilonggo Franklin Drilon who was greatly instrumental in the rapid growth of Iloilo both in economic and in infrastructure development in recent years. President Noynoy Aquino’s Executive Secretary was Bisayan Paquito Ochoa from Samar.

*President Rodrigo Roa Duterte of Davao City in Mindanao

He appointed several Ilonggo as members of his Cabinet. For whatever reason, however, many were not able to continue their role as his official family members in Malacañang.

Namely: Perfecto Yasay as Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary; Ismael “Mike” Sueño as Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary; Manny Piñol as Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary; Gina Lopez as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) ; and Ms. Judy Taguiwalo as Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary.

Communist Party of the Philippines Founder Jose Maria Sison

Even Filipino leadership on the opposite side of the political spectrum, NDF-CPA-NPA Jose Maria "Joma" Sison; has the ilonggo conjugal ex-clergy, Father Luis Jalandoni and Sister Coni Ledesma who also literally calls the shots.

 Antonio “Tony” Meloto - Gawad Kalinga Founder

 

Today, a ray of "Hope" is conspicuously glowing over the horizon that might revolutionize Filipino society. This was yet initiated by another modest ilonggo Antonio P. Meloto of Molo, Iloilo City and Negros Occidental.

Tony has effectively started rekindle the inherent Filipino trait; the "Bayanihan Spirit" as Founder and Executive Director of GAWAD KALINGA.

GK is making waves throughout the Philippines and supported not only by concerned Filipino expatriates but also by benevolent groups worldwide.

There must be something about the Bisaya and/or Ilonggo that makes them "Click!"

Ano ayhan? . . . Ay AMBOT! ~~~