Mga Larawan ni (at sulatin ukol kay) Supremo Andres Bonifacio y de Castro (Bonifacio Series V)

(Updated May 15, 2012)

Reconstructed Photograph of Supremo Boni (kung hindi siguro tinutugis ng Kastila)
(Photo art: JB)

Nagiisang larawan ni Supremo Andres Bonifacio y de Castro

(Enhanced)

Orihinal na 'Tiltulado Presidente' na larawan, nasa ' Museo Oriental de Valladolid Site

Cartoonized Artist's Image of President Andres Bonifacio de la Republica Tagala, Mirror image
  (Photo art: JB)

Supremo Andres, naka Barong
Cartoonized Artist's Image of Presidente Andres Bonifacio de la Republica Tagala; Mirror image
(Photo art: JB)

Presidente Andres Bonifacio de la Republica Tagala
Floating over the Philippine Archipelago

(Photo art: JB)

Presidente Andres Bonifacio de la Republica Tagala
Floating over the Philippine Archipelago, Mirror image, Bamboo frame
  (Photo art: JB)

Reversed color of original "Presidente de la Republica Tagala" image, stylized
(Photo art: JB)

"Ang Wakas ni Andres Bonifacio" ni Carlos Valino Jr.
Nanalo sa  1963 Andres Bonifacio Centennial Art Contest
Pinagkunan: Tragedy of the Revolution (akda ni Adrian E. Cristobal) via Prop. Michael Chua 
- matatagpuan daw ngayon sa Manila City Hall, Bulwagang Katipunan

Gat Andres Bonifacio: The Anti-Colonial National Hero of the Philippines (Bonifacio Series I)

Every November 30, the Philippines celebrates Bonifacio Day to commemorate the birthday of the Father of Philippine Revolution, Andres Bonifacio y de Castro. The second foremost figure in the Southeast Asian country's pantheon of heroes, he is in fact regarded by Filipino nationalists more highly than the only one other, but 'more official' national hero,* Jose Protacio Rizal, who is criticized as having been an "American-sponsored hero" chosen by the United States colonial government over the "too radical" Bonifacio and the 'Sublime Paralytic' Apolinario Mabini...XXXX

Surviving official letterhead communications dated 1897 point to Bonifacio's various designations that include being the "Supreme President, Government of the Revolution." Perhaps the most telling proofs come from non-partisan sources of the period. Nineteenth century Spanish historian Jose M. del Castillo, in his 1897 writing "El Katipunan" or "El Filibusterismo en Filipinas," describes the first national elections in the Philippines from which Bonifacio emerged as the President, and Plata, Jacinto, del Rosario, Pantas and Pacheco as cabinet officials. This is corroborated by the February 8, 1897 issue of the international publication "La Ilustracion Espanola y Americana" in its article about the Philippine revolution and which featured an engraved portrait of "Andres Bonifacio, Titulado 'Presidente' de la Republica Tagala,"**** clad in a dark suit and white tie.....

http://jesusabernardo.newsvine.com/_news/2008/11/29/2161186-gat-andres-bonifacio-the-anti-colonial-national-hero-of-the-philippines-bonifacio-series-i



Andres Bonifacio's Tagalog Nation & Predictions of Global Warming (Bonifacio Series II)

The revolutionary leader was Andres Bonifacio y de Castro, murdered May 10, 1897 in a remote moutain in the archipelagic islands the hero called the Haring Bayang Katagalugan (Sovereign Nation of Katagalugan). The name "Katagalugan," derives from"Tagalog," which is a constriction of the word "taga-ilog" that translates as "(person/people) from the area along the river," or simply, riverine. The hero's treacherous execution marked not only the elite takeover of the revolutionary mass movement he built but, as well, the adoption of a colonial name for his country well past into its independence period until today. Tagalog was junked and the old name given by Spain after its king, Philip II, stuck. Called "Las Islas de Filipinas" by Spain--a name favored even by its other elitist heroes--or "Philippine Islands," by its next colonial master, the United States of America, it is now called the Republic of the Philippines....

http://jesusabernardo.newsvine.com/_news/2009/05/10/2800625-andres-bonifacios-tagalog-nation-predictions-of-global-warming



The Devaluation of a Hero & Promotion of a Counter-Hero: Where's Andres Bonifacio in the P5 Coin? (Bonifacio Series III)

Noble Courage

At any rate, that Bonifacio is the "Father of Philippine Revolution" is undisputed, and his courage legendary. During World War II, his name even was even used by American propagandists to inspire anti-Japanese resistance. His persona was even adopted as a strong theme in the Hollywood World War II movie, "Back to Bataan," which starred John Wayne and Anthony Quinn.

http://jesusabernardo.newsvine.com/_news/2010/01/03/3710118-the-devaluation-of-a-hero-promotion-of-a-counter-hero-wheres-andres-bonifacio-in-the-p5-coin-bonifacio-series-iii


The Tragedy of the Katipunan: The Supremo's Assassination-cum-Execution (Bonifacio Series IV)

Isang kronolohiya ng Katipunan, ng paghahanda patungo sa Himagsikan ng 1896, at ng pagpapatalsik at krimeng "asasinasyon" (mga terminong ginamit ni Apolinario Mabini) na ginawa ng kampo ni Emilio F. Aguinaldo laban kay Supremo Andres Bonifacio y de Castro.

"Mabini supports his reading of Bonifacio's killing being criminal with a number of points:

- Bonifacio had no less schooling than any of those elected in the aforesaid assembly" and has even exhibited "an uncommon sagacity in organizing the Katipunan."
- All the electors in the Tejeros Convention "were friends of Don Emilio Aguinaldo and Don Mariano Trias, who were united."
-"Bonifacio, although he had established his integrity, was looked upon with distrust only because he was not a native of the province". - Despite Bonifacio's resentment, "he did not show it by any act of turbulent defiance, for, seeing that no one was working for reconciliation, he was content with quitting the province for San Mateo in the company of his br...

http://jesusabernardo.newsvine.com/_news/2011/05/10/6619505-the-tragedy-of-the-katipunan-the-supremos-assassination-cum-execution-bonifacio-series-iv



Andres Bonifacio, Unang Pangulo ng 'Pilipinas': Setting the Historiographic Record Straight (Bonifacio Series VI)

Unang Pangulo

Sa pagbabago o transformation ng KKK mula sa isang pagiging lihim na panghimagsik na samahan upang maging isang bukas at de facto na pamahalaan ng mga Tagalog* (lahat ng mga katutubong/indios mamamayan ng buong kapuluan), kikilos bilang isang organisadong pamahalaan ang mga anak ng Inang Bayan upang labanan at patatalsikin ang kolonyal na Kastila. Dito, ang pinuno ay walang iba kundi si Supremo/Generalissimo /PANGULONG Andres Bonifacio.

Itong pagbuo ng panghimagsikan o rebolusyonaryong pamahalaan na ito ang basehan ng isang artikulo sa isang Kastila-Amerikanong lathain kung saan itinanghal ang isang imahe ni Bonifacio na may titulong "'Presidente' de la Republica Tagala." Moreover, the election in the newly formed Katipunan national government called the Katagalan Republic was also recorded in a 1897 work by Spanish historian Jose M.del Castillo. Writing in his "El Katipunan" or "El Filibusterismo en Filipinas," Castillo reiterated the electoral results of what was, in effect, the very first national elections in the Philippine archipelago.

Aside from the apparently very impartial, foreign sources, local evidences of the title of President held by Bonifacio exist. Sa testimonya ni Dr. Pio Valenzuela, isang dating pinuno sa KKK, sa mga Kastila, pinatotohanan niya ang paghalal kay Bonifacio bilang Pangulo o pinuno ng binuong panghimagsikang pamahalaan, kasama ng iba pang nahalal na Katipunero (partikular ang nahuling si Del Rosario na isa sa mga nahirang na isakatuparan ang panghimagsikang pamahalaan lalo ang aspetong lokal na pamamahala).  Additionally, there were the telling Katipunan/revolutionary communications dated March-April 1897 that fortunately survived and which were released by Epifanio de los Santos in the late 1980s. Said communications that included letters and other important documents pointed to Bonifacio as occupying the highest post in the revolutionary government through varying titles:

    Pangulo ng Kataastaasang Kapulungan

    (President of the Supreme Council)

    Ang Kataastaasang Pangulo

    (The Supreme President)

    Pangulo nang Haring Bayang Katagalugan

    (President of the Sovereign Nation of Katagalugan)

    Ang Pangulo ng Haring Bayan

    May tayo nang K.K. Katipunan nang mga Anak ng Bayan,

    Unang nag galaw nang Panghihimagsik

    (The President Sovereign Nation Founder of the Katipunan, Initiator of the  Revolution)

    Kataastaasang Panguluhan,Pamahalaang Panghihimagsik

    (Office of the Supreme President, Government of the Revolution)

http://forthephilippines.blogspot.com/2011/12/andres-bonifacio-unang-pangulo-ng.html



The HACKING of the SUPREMO, Unang Bahagi (Bonifacio Series VII)

Ang Pagtadtad sa Supremo?

Sa bahagi nang pagharap ni Supremo sa kamatayan angat ang kasinungalingan ni Makapagal kaya ito ring marahil bandang bahagi ng pagpatay ang naglalaman ng kung anong masidhing itinatago. Balik tayo sa tula (o naging lumang awit pa nga raw yata, ayon sa isang may beterano at retiradong historyador) na may temang putol-putol. Ang pilit kayang pinagtatakpan ni Makapagal sa mga kasinungalingan at hindi.tugma.sa.realided na mga mahahalagang puntos sa kanyang tatlong bersyon ay ang maaring katotohanan na kagimbal-gimbal at mala-hayup na pagkatay ang ginawa nilang pagpatay sa Supremo?


Masangkay Team Forensics

Ang talagang unang naglabas, o nagpasikat, na pinatay daw ang Supremo hindi sa pagbaril kundi sa pagkatay ay si Hen. Guillermo Masangkay, kaibigan ni Bonifacio at nagsilbing militar na hepe noong Katipunan. Ayon kay Masangkay, dalawang sundalong tauhan ni Makapagal (na sa pamamahagi n historyador na si Prop. Michael Charlestone Chua, ay kasama sa berdugo team) na na ang noon ay malubha na ang lagay na si Bonifacio ay isinakay sa duyan at pinatay gamit ang bolo at bayoneta. Noong 1918, bumuo ng forensic team si Masangkay at si Epifanio de los Reyes at naghukay ng pinaniniwalaan nilang mga buto ng Supremo ayon sa mga detalyeng itinuro ng testigo o pinagkwentuhan ng testigo. Sinuri ang mga buto ng mga doktor na sina Sixto de los Angeles, Fidel Cuanjunco at Augusto Atenas sa Unibersidad ng Pilipinas. Wala pa namang DNA testing noon at batay sa best available science sa bansa, ang pag.describe sa mga buto na may mga tama ng bayoneta at bolo at may fractured skull ayon na rin sa sumbong sa kanya, ay nagkumbinsi kina Masangkay na talagang kay Bonifacio nga ang mga buto. 

http://forthephilippines.blogspot.com/2012/05/hacking-of-supremo-unang-bahagi.html



Ang Maalam na si Supremo Andres Bonifacio

Masyadong MAALAM si Supremo Andres Bonifacio y de Castro kung kaya't kita nito agad ang plagiarismo at gaya-gaya. In December 1896, he rejected future Gen. Edilberto Evangelista's proposal for the Katipunan to adopt a constitution because it was so similar to one made by a Spaniard.

http://jesusabernardo.blogspot.com/2011/11/ang-maalam-na-si-supremo-andres.html



Dakpin ang Supremo 'Dead or Alive'

Bakit ba hindi itinuturo sa mainstream na kasaysayan ng Pinas na ang binigay na kautusan ni Aguinaldo na dakpin si Supremo Andres Bonifacio ay DEAD or ALIVE???

26/27 April 1897 - “President” Emilio Aguinaldo sternly orders that the Bonifacio brothers be seized and brought before him dead or alive. Assigned were Col. Agapito Bonzon (alias Intong/Yntong), Felipe Topacio, and Jose Paua/Pawa (alias Insik Pawa).

27/28 April 1897 - The Supremo and brother Procopio are treacherously abducted by the forces of Bonzon and Paua … Bonzon shoots the Supremo in the arm. Paua then moves to kill the Katipunan Supreme President by stabbing him in the throat with a dagger but one of Bonifacio’s men plead that his life be taken instead. [According to Julio Nakpil, it was Lazaro who stabbed the Supremo].

http://jesusabernardo.blogspot.com/2011/11/dakpin-ang-supremo-dead-or-alive.html


Talumpati ni Supremo Andres Bonifacio sa Paggunita kina GOMBURZA

Supremo Andres Bonifacio:

Ang bayan, pinanunhan ng buong katiisan, at sa pagkat mahina, mahina sapagkat di magkakaisa sa pag daramdam at pag dadamayan…. ang malalin na pag hihimutog at nabigkas ang “May araw ring sisikat ang araw ng Katuiran, at magbabayad ang may mga utang.

http://jesusabernardo.blogspot.com/2011/04/talumpati-ni-supremo-andres-bonifacio.html


Ang Mga DAPAT MABATID Ng Mga TAGALOG/Taga-Ilog

Si Andres Bonifacio yaong walang kibo, nguni't dinaramdam at pinag-aaralang lahat ang daing ng kanyang bayan sa pang-aaping ginagawa sa kanya, at nangulo ng pag-uusig sa mga nang-aapi.

Ang magiting na iyan ang nagluwas sumuba sa Balintawak, at pati gabi'y ginagawang araw, maihanda lamang at maisagawa ang pagbangon ng bayang itong malaon ding inalipin.

Si Andres Bonifacio yaong matapang na hindi nilingon ang kakauntiang ng tao niyang kasama, kahinaan ng kanyang panlaban at kakapusang ng lahat ng kailangan, ay nagsimula ng isang gawaing napakalaki at dakila.

http://jesusabernardo.blogspot.com/2011/05/ang-mga-dapat-mabatid-ng-mga-taga-ilog.html


Sa Ika-119 Taon ng Pagkakatatag ng Katipunan ng manga Anak ng Bayan

Sa Ika-119 na pagkakatatag ng Kataastaasang, Kagalanggalangang Katipunan nang manga Anak nang Bayan (KKK), narito ang ilang batis:

Katipunan Founding

XXXX

The Liga Filipina was short-lived. On 6 July, Rizal was arrested and detained upon the orders of the Governor-General Eulogio Despujol. Two weeks later, he was sent to Dapitan, Mindanao, where he lived in exile for four years."

http://jesusabernardo.blogspot.com/2011/07/sa-ika-119-taon-ng-pagkakatatag-ng.html



Ang Ating Pagkabansa Dahil kay Supremo

Patriot Jose Mercado Rizal inspired Gat Andres Bonifacio y de Castro and the rest of the revolutionaries. Thing is, we should not forget that he disapproved of the 1896 revolution. Imagine if the Supremo did not do what he did? No Philippine Revolution. Kung nagkataon, the imperialist Bald Eagle nation had all the right to call us "insurectos" & colonized..

http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/JesusaBernardo/~3/7wSLqJvc8-A/ang-ating-pagkabansa-dahil-kay-supremo.html



Rizal, Bonifacio, at ang "Pahimakas" ("Mi Ultimo Adios")

We credit and laud Supremo Bonifacio for organizing and strengthening under very difficult colonial circumstances the Kataastaasan Kagalang-galang na Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (KKK), that noble society that aimed to liberate the country from the yoke of Spanish colonization.

Rizal provided a great inspiration for a nationwide assertion of independence. Bonifacio gave national life and force to Rizal's "filibuster" Elias character. Gat Rizal was being prudent disowning the Philippine Revolution of 1896. Supremo Bonifacio had the incredible historical foresight to push through with it despite initial lack of arms.

http://blog-by-taga-ilog-news.blogspot.com/2010/11/rizal-bonifacio-at-ang-pahimakas-mi.html



The Katipunan Founding Speech of Andres Bonifacio

How Bonifacio, who would still work with the La Liga until its disbandment, even becoming its chief of propaganda owing to his effective personality and communications skills, initiated and powered the Philippine Revolution is perhaps well seen in his speech on that fateful day of the KKK founding. The speech Bonifacio delivered so convinced his co-founders to establish the revolutionary organization, as follows:

Mga Capatid:

Tayo'y di mg?a pantás, caya hindî mariringal na talumpatî at dî maririkit na sulat ang ating idaraos; sa gawâ natin daanin: ang catubusa'y hindî nacucuha sa salita ó sa sulat; kinácamtan sa pagsasabog ng dugô."

Talastas na ninyo ang calupitáng guinawâ sa ating capatid na si Dr. Rizal, iya'y maliwanag na halimbawang nagpapakilala sa ating di tayo macaliligtas sa caalipnan cung dî daraanin sa pakikibaca.

http://blog-by-taga-ilog-news.blogspot.com/2010/11/katipunan-founding-speech-of-andres.html 



Si Gat Andres Bonifacio at ang Pagbuo ng PagkaBANSA

Hindi lamang Ama ng Himagsikan si Gat Andres Bonifacio y de Castro. Siya rin ang ama ng ating PAGKABANSA. (Yung nga lang, nagkadayaan sa Tejeros at na.coup siya, tapos na.Kangaroo Court at pinatay ng mga ganid at taksil....)

Si Andres Bonifacio naman ang bumuo sa isang himagsikan ng mga mamamayan. Ipinanganak siya sa Tondo noong Nobyembre 1863. Sa tulong ng Katipunan, pinalaganap ni Bonifacio ang konsepto ng bayan. Ibang iba ito sa konsepto ng nación ng mga ilustrado. Ito ay nakabatay sa pagbuo ng/kay Inang Bayan at pagtatag ng Haring Bayan (estadong bayan) para sa buong kapuluan (Republika ng Katagalugan). Sinasabing ang Inang Bayan ang dapat panggalingan ng pagbubuo dahil sa kanyang sinapupunan lamang nagkakaroon ng tunay na kabuuan. Sa ilalim ng iisang Inang Bayan, nagkakaroon ng kapatiran ng mga ito. Ginamit ni Bonifacio ang metapora ng mag-anak bilang simbolo ng pagkakaisa ng mga bayan sa buong kapuluan at noong Hulyo 6, 1892, itinatag niya ang Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (KKK).

http://blog-by-taga-ilog-news.blogspot.com/2010/11/si-gat-andres-bonifacio-at-ang-pagbuo.html

Gen. Macario Sakay's Vilification: Anatomy of the nefariousness of American Imperialism

IN the morning of September 13, 1907 at around 8:30 am, two Malay-skinned men sporting long, uncut but luxuriant hair were led out of the bartolina in Manila in the Southeast Asian archipelago now called the Republic of the Philippines. The two protagonists were escorted by pale-skinned soldiers of the Bald Eagle nation from the North American continent towards the gallows to be executed by hanging. Upon reaching the platform, one of the long-haired Filipinos, the seeming leader, shouts from the top of his lungs:

“I face the Lord Almighty calmly but we must tell you that we are not bandits and robbers as the Americans accuse us, but members of the revolutionary force that defended our country. Long live the Philippines! Adios Filipinas!”

JB poster art

Who was Sakay?

Macario Sakay y de León was a Filipino military  leader in the Philippine Revolution against Spain and in the Philippine-American War (1899-1914). He  had fought side by side with Gat Andres  Bonifacio y de Castro, Supremo of the secret-society-turned-revolutionary-government Kagalanggalangang Katipunan  nang  manga Anak nang  Bayan (KKK). Following the second  phase of the Revolution and  the capture or  surrender of most Filipino generals by the invading  Americans, he later continued resistance against the  new colonial enemy, the United States. He was initially  caught and then released following the official  declaration of the war's end in 1902.

The following year, Sakay became  President of the Republic of Katagalugan  (Philippines), the revived Katipunan during the fight  for freedom against the invading Bald Eagle nation. Gen. Sakay proved to be a big, big thorn to the  American imperialist agenda. In battling the vile  Bald Eagles, his nationalist determination and vision showed his Tagalog Republic to be the true heir to  the Katipunan government and him, the proud heir to the Supremo. A tough, determined, "organization  genius" of a Filipino patriot, Sakay defiantly and,  for a time, rather wondrously continued the anti-colonial mission of   KKK and Gat Bonifacio.

Sakay engaged in guerrilla warfare against the  imperialist Americans, utilizing crafty planning and  organizational force to accomplish military victories.  His  government utilized "a large number of rebels  against a small group of American soldiers to  guarantee a successful ambush attack [and usually  attacking] at night when most of their enemies are  asleep."  The Katagalugan freedom fighters would  seize firearms and ammunition in their raid  attacks in Cavite and Batangas and even San  Francisco de Malabon. They had a big haul of ammunition and revolvers from a U.S. military garrison--a minor feat they achieved while disguised as Philippine Constabulary men.

Gen. Sakay made it known to the enemy imperialists  that they were freedom defenders of a most patriotic  and advance order. The Katagalugan Republic had  its Katipunan-based flag, constitution and seal. The Republic's  Declaration  had the KKK character of the  equality of every person regardless of race, skin  color, wealth, intelligence and appearance as it  exalts every individual's 'essential nature'  (loob)  instead.  The Declaration also included the whole of  the archipelago:

Ang mga Nayon, bayan Hucuman nitong Filipinas ay  siyang tinatauag na Kapuluang Katagalugan, sa  macatuid baga, ay gaya ng Jolo, Mindanao,  Kabisayaan, Kailokohan iba't iba pang lupa na tunay  na Tagalog.[28]

(The villages and municipalities of this Filipinas are called Katagalugan Archipelago, which in effect, are  the likes of Jolo, Mindanao, Visayas, Ilocos and all  other different lands that are truly Tagalog.)

Unfortunately, Sakay would ultimately be conned by the vile Americans into coming down from the mountains on promise of amnesty for him and his officials, on top of the formation of Philippine Assembly composed of Filipinos that would supposedly serve as the "gate of freedom." The imperialist American Governor General Henry Clay Ide used Dr. Domingo Gomez, a Filipino labor leader and 'persuasive and charming ilustrado,' to lure Sakay into giving up their resistance.

Gomez met with Sakay at his camp and argued that  the establishment of a national assembly was being  held up by Sakay's intransigence, and that its  establishment would be the first step toward  Filipino independence. His surrender was made to  be a prerequisite for a state of peace that would  supposedly ensure the election of Filipino delegates to the (1907) American-sponsored Philippine Assembly. Sakay , in good faith, was convinced by the  smooth-tongued Gomez that the struggle has shifted to  constitutional means, with the Assembly as means  to winning Philippine Independence.  He finally  agreed on the conditions that a general amnesty be granted his men, that they be permitted to carry  firearms, and that he and his officers would be  permitted to leave the country. Gomez assured  Sakay that these conditions the would be acceptable  to the Americans, and Sakay's emissary, General  Leon Villafuerte, obtained agreement to them from  the American Governor General.

Thereafter, Sakay and Villafuerte traveled to  Manila, where they were welcomed and invited to  receptions and banquets. One invitation came from  the Constabulary Chief, Col. Harry H. Bandholtz.  That invitation was a colonial trap and Sakay and  his principal lieutenants were disarmed and arrested  while the party was in progress. Sakay's group were naturally taken aback, with Gen. Villafuerte shouting: “We have been betrayed and we are trapped. Doctor, what is the meaning of this?” As Guerrero further recounts, Gomez could only reply with: “There’s no use fighting.”  For his part, Sakay, with bloodshot eyes, exclaimed: “Tell the Americans to face us in the open field, in honorable battle.” Sakay also asked how the Filipino Constabularios managed to have no shame betraying their fellow Filipinos and being subservient to the colonizers.

American Colonizers Hang Filipinos

Sakay and company were then forcibly brought to the Hotel de Oriente in Binondo before being incarcerated in Bilibid Prison. Captain Rafael Crame presided over their preliminary investigation before being charged of bandolerismo under the Brigandage Act  of Nov. 12, 1902 that construed all acts of  armed resistance to American colonial rule as banditry. The Katagalugan President and his men were defended by Attys. Felipe Buencamino and Ramon Diokno (father of  the noted human rights lawyer Jose Pepe Diokno) but the colonial Supreme Court of the Philippines would upheld the  decision.
 
In between, the nefarious Americans did not bother keeping their promise even towards the lower ranked men of Sakay. Inside the Bilibid prison, the North American colonizers secretly killed, nay, murdered 400 of Sakay's men by hanging and by lethal serum. As Guerrero notes, the prison atrocities perpetrated by the Americans against the Tagalog Republic patriots can be likened to the recent Guantanamo and Abu-Ghraib scandals.

As for the Filipino traitor character that was Dominador Gomez, it turned out that he allowed himself to be an imperialist tool of treachery in order to save his own skin. Gomez was a doctor who had been convicted of sedition and fined and sentenced to four years of hard labor. He had taken over the leadership of the labor federation Union Obrera Democratica de Filipinas and having participated in a big rally, he was arrested by the colonial authorities. He had his case under appeal when he negotiated for Sakay's surrender. Two weeks after Sakay was hanged, Gomez won the appeal as the Appeals Court judged the evidence against him insufficient no matter the "much suspicious proof."



 Late A Hero Recognized


This author is among those who were virtually taught  the American propaganda as to Sakay's identity. I remember that in my elementary or high school years, the history books' slant pictured Sakay as a Filipino bandit more than a hero. For about half a century after the US granted the Philippines "independence," imperialist propaganda against a valiant patriot who continued the anti-colonial mission of the "Father of Philippine Revolution," Supremo Bonifacio well persisted.

Carmen Guerrero Nakpil perhaps well describes  Sakay's patriotic military career:

Sakay became the scourge of all his country's  oppressors - the Spaniards, the Americans, the  misguided half-bloods and compatriots - trying in  every way he knew to secure freedom from injustice  for his people. He was more determined than Rizal,  more fortunate than Bonifacio, purer than  Aguinaldo, more lyrically mysterious than Mabini. If  Filipinos had won the war with America, he would  probably have been our Simon Bolívar or our Ho Chi  Minh.

It took a century and a year before the official recognition of the heroism, valor, and patriotism of Sakay and the Tagalog Republic cabinet and soldiers were made by his compatriots. Or a half a century and two years after the American invaders supposedly granted independence to the Filipinos on July 4, 1946.

It took long before it came--that rightful recognition to strike off the lingering American "bandit" smear campaign and  to finally elevated Sakay to the pantheon of Philippine heroes, but came it finally did. In 1998, the Manila Historical and Heritage Commission unveiled a life-size status of Gen. Sakay at Plaza Morga in Tondo, his birthplace. Earlier, the University of the Philippines and the National Historical Institute unveiled a marker at the foot of Mr. Banahaw, part of the region where the Republika ng Katagalugan freedom fighters operated amidst the American Occupation of the archipelago.

On September 16, 1998, a sweet statement of a recognition was passed by the Philippine Senate of the 14th Congress when it passed Resolution No. 121 "HONORING THE SACRIFICE OF MACARIO SAKAY AND ALL OTHER FILIPINOS WHO GAVE UP THEIR LIVES IN THE PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN WAR FOR OUR FREEDOM."

The "Whereas" clauses of the resolution sets straight the facts of the circumstances of Gen. Sakay's activities and execution. Sakay <issued a manifesto declaring the Filipinos' right to self-determination at a time when calling for "independence", espousing and advocating the same, was considered a crime by the American occupation forces in the Philippines;> He established the freedom-fighting or defiant <"Republika ng Katagalugan", of which he was the president and Francisco Carreon as the vice president.>

It was but natural for the imperialist American authorities not to have recognized Sakay's Republic. The Bald Eagle people, after all, did not even recognize the fledgling 1898 Philippine Republic led by Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, the man they conned into cooperating in the war against Spain and letting them freely enter the archipelago as they positioned themselves for the Mock Battle of Manila and eventual invasion/occupation.

According to the Senate Resolution, the <the Philippine Commission passed the Bandolerism Act which proclaimed all captured resistance insurgents to be tried in court as bandits, ladrones and robbers.> Sakay was then declared an outlaw under the Bandolerism Act.>

However, Sakay was such a tough freedom fighter and an "organization genius."  The resolution continues: <Despite the establishment of concentration camps by the Philippine Constabulary and Philippine Scouts in Cavite, Batangas and Laguna, this did not stop Macario Sakay and his companions to expansively fight in the Southern Luzon area.>

Original seal of President Macario Sakay/Katagalugan Republic
(with photoshop coloring/art)

Bald Eagle No Mercy

A day before the execution of Sakay and de Vega, a big, emotional crowd demonstrated before Malacanang, then the seat of American colonial power. The people wished to convince the imperialist Gov.-Gen. Henry Clay Ide not to push through with the execution. They pleaded for clemency; however, Ide coldly refused to even see the people.

A day after the execution of the virtual second Supremo of the Katipunan government, the fourth de facto President of the Philippines (after Bonifacio, Emilio Aguinaldo, and Gen. Miguel Malvar), a larger crowd appeared before the Bilibid prison vociferously asking that they be allowed to wrap his and de Vega's bodies with the flag of the Katipunan. Again, the native supporters and sympathizers of Sakay and the Tagalog Republic were heartlessly turned down.

The subjugated Filipinos could make no such demand. The imperialist Americans won't allow honor of any kind to be conferred to the Filipino who defied and battled their immoral dominion and prolonged the non-Muslim component of the Philippine-American War.

Wicked, vilification propaganda to project a patriot  as bandit was certainly not enough for the Bald  Eagle. Blatant deception by the colonial  governor-general and the exploitation of another native in dire straits were not not enough either.  The US Army's dishonorable violation of its own safe conduct pass was not enough as well. Not even the  legalized murders of the leaders of the Tagalog  Republic would suffice. Even in Sakay's death,  North American imperialism showed no mercy.


Greatest and Last Filipino General, President

 But why is that? Why so much hate against Sakay, "Uncle Sam"? Sakay's history seems to show that the pale-skinned North American  imperialists let out all their brand of wicked  ammunition on him and the Tagalog Republic  patriots.

Hard to imagine the powerful, Bald Eagle invaders vilifying a sagacious and determined freedom fighter like Sakay. Imagine democracy-touting Americans committing genocidal-level Guantanamo/Abu-Ghraib precedents on the Katagalugan patriots some 100 years before the  administration of George W. Bush, the  war-freak "Idiot Heir."

But con, vilify and murder the "bandit" Republic of Katagalugan freedom fighters they did. Imperialist American nefariousness, circa 1900s. A portent of Agent Orange, circa Vietnam War, and sheer imperialist terrorism, circa Iraq War.

Why so? The terroristic Americans ain't saying it but they seemed to have found Gen. Sakay the last and the greatest Filipino general to have challenged their bald-hearted imperial might.

By the way, merely seven weeks following their execution of President Sakay, the imperialists passed Act No. 1696, or the Flag Law that prohibits the public display of all Philippine and  Katipunan flags, banners, emblems, and symbols....


____________


References:


Guerrero, Milagros, Emmanuel Encarnacion, and Ramon Villegas. Andres Bonifacio and the 1896 Revolution. In Sulyap Kultura. National Commission for Culture and the Arts, 1996. NCCA Site. 16 June 2003. http://www.ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/articles-on-c-n-a/article.php?i=5&subcat=13.


Guerrero Nakpil, Carmen. "The mark of Sakay: The vilified hero of our war with America." Philstar. Updated 8 September 2008. http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleid=398995


Hernandez, Jet. MACARIO SAKAY AND THE STRUGGLE FOR FREEDOM. 17 Jan. 2008. http://banlawkasaysayan.multiply.com/photos/album/1/MACARIO_SAKAY_AND_THE_STRUGGLE_FOR_FREEDOM_mula_sa_jethernandez.multiply.com


Macario Sakay. Global Pinoy. http://www.globalpinoy.com/ch/ch_category.php?category=heroes&name=Macario%20Sakay&table=ch_heroes&startpage=16&endpage=30


Pomeroy, William J. The Philippines: colonialism, collaboration, and resistance. Publisher International Publishers Co, 1992. http://books.google.com.ph/books?id=vQPpEa02N5kC&dq=%22an+aspect+of+the+u.s.+educational+system+was+the+selection+and+elevation+of+national+heroes.%22&source=gbs_navlinks_s


Transcript from Philippine Senate Resolution No. 121, September 16, 2008, http://www.senate.gov.ph/14th_congress/resolutions/resno121.pdf


Photo credits:

(Sakay seal): http://www.watawat.net/; https://www.facebook.com/p

hoto.php?fbid=10150100309784077&set=t.1792989548&type=1&theater

http://www.freewebs.com/philippineamericanwar/thelastholdouts.htm

103rd Anniversary of the Treacherous Death of Macario Sakay, President of the Revived Katipunan during the Fil-Am War

TODAY is the 103rd Anniversary of the Death of Gen. Macario Sakay, President of the Republic of Katagalugan (Philippines), the revived Katipunan during the Philippine-American War (1899-1914).

Gen. Sakay was deceived into giving up fighting the invaders on promises of independence for the Philippines and amnesty for him and his officers made by the American Governor-General. It turned out to be a trap as he and Col. Lucio de Vega were arrested and eventually taken from the bartolina to the gallows by the imperialist soldiers on September 13, 1907.

Reaching the platform at around 8:30 a.m., Sakay shouted at the top of his lungs:

“I face the Lord Almighty calmly but we must tell you that we are not bandits and robbers as the Americans accuse us, but members of the revolutionary force that defended our country. Long live the Philippines! Adios Filipinas!”

Original seal of President Macario Sakay/Katagalugan Republic
(with photoshop coloring/art)

Sakay's treacherous death came quite early at age 37. For more details about this valiant Filipino hero who continued the anti-colonial aspirations and revolutionary movement of Gat Andres Bonifacio, please check the following links:

Senate Resolution honoring Gen. Macario Sakay & Co.
http://blog-by-taga-ilog-news.blogspot.com/2010/09/senate-resolution-honoring-gen-macario.html

The mark of Sakay: The vilified hero of our war with America
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleid=398995

Check out the trailer of Raymond Red's Sakay film here:

Macario Sakay, heir to Bonifacio's Tagalog Republic

http://jesusabernardo.blogspot.com/2010/09/let-us-remember-heroism-today-103-years.html


***********


Photo credit (Sakay seal):

http://www.watawat.net/; https://www.facebook.com/p

hoto.php?fbid=10150100309784077&set=t.1792989548&type=1&theater

In Search of the Truth of the May 10, 2010 Philippine Automated Elections

THE recent Philippine automated elections were held on May 10, 2010, the 113rd anniversary of the murder-by-execution of the "Father of Philippine Revolution," Andres Bonifacio. A month after, on June 19, the 149th anniversary of the birth of Jose Rizal, a coalition seeking mainly to "unravel the truth surrounding the May 2010 elections" held a seven-hour forum that explained the mechanics of the AES and its failure and showed the many blatant lies perpetrated by both the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and Smartmatic-TIM. Could the apparent historical coincidences timed with important days associated with the country's two national heroes forebode of the ultimate revelation of what really happened during the Filipinos' first experience with automated polls?

       June 19, Jose Rizal B-day          -    May 10, Andres Bonifacio's Death
(2010 Coincidences w/ National Heroes' Significant Dates)

The MIGHT e2010 (Movement for Integrity in Governance and Honesty and Truth in the May 2010 Elections) forum also presented surprise witness Jonathan Manalang, the Operations Director of the technical support center of Smartmatic. Manalang, whose testimony before the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms was cut short by Makati Cong. Teddy Boy Locsin made some rather surprising revelations about the AES elections. He revealed that there was a  "superserver" located in Antel Building in Quezon which Smartmatic lied about and that excess PCOS machines were delivered to certain areas.


Illegality?

The resource persons also pointed to the glaring illegality of the automated polls. Election lawyer Araold Bayobay listed the actions and decisions committed by no less than Comelec itself in clear violation of the Poll Automation Law. Former Assemblyman Homobono severely criticized congress for its the proclamation of now-"President-elect" Noynoy Aquino despite the absence of a quorum, which he says is blatant violation of due process and the 1987 Philippine Constitution.


Conspiracy of Cheating?

Former Assemblyman Homobono Adaza and Atty. Arnold Bayobay categorically spoke of cheating at both the local and national levels. Adaza referred to documents showing the nationwide pattern of improbable zero vote results. Suspiciously, the joint congressional oversight committee on automated elections or JCOC-AE has refused to investigate the glaring anomaly.

Striking evidence of apparent fraud at the presidential level was also shown. Bayobay presented election returns from a precinct in Pampanga that showed former President Joseph Estrada as the winner, followed by Sen. Manuel Villar and now-"President-elect" Noynoy Aquino trailing as third. However, he says that the transmitted report reflected Aquino as the winner. 

Where Did Our Votes Go? forum on the truth of the Philippine

Mainstream Media Co-Optation?

The collusion of mainstream media to failure and probable cheating in the polls was also questioned. Manalang also testified to how at one point, the media was reporting on the supposed transmission Of 50 percent of the Certificates of Canvass or COC despite the fact that only 20 percent transmission was reflected in the headquarters of Smartmatic-TIM. Presidential candidate Nicanor Perlas had earlier wondered where the excess media-reported votes were coming from.

The group as a whole criticized the mainstream media for "conspiring" with both Smartmatic and the COMELEC in keeping facts away from public knowledge. According to Adaza, the mainstream organization's selection coverage of elections have worked against fomenting nationwide awareness of the conduct of the recent automated polls, hinting of the deliberate co-optation of media in electronic fraud.



The transcript of a video presentation of the forum follows:

"As we struggle to get to the truth. The truth that will give honor to each Filipino's vote."

-- Patricia Ilagan, MIGHT e2010

"We wake up one day and the votes are set and we do not even know how our votes were counted. I think we owe it to ourselves to look for the truth. And we thank you for being here in search of the truth, so that each and every one of us can make our own conclusions, but we should not let democracy be assaulted if there is any question of the 2010 elections being fraudulently conducted."

-- Sen. Jamby Madrigal


What Really Happened with your Votes?

"What really happened with your votes? what went through this election on May 10. It's anything but not perfect." 

-- Mr. Edmundo G. Casino (Philippine Computer Society, Board of  Director)


Legal and technical explanations from I.T. experts and lawyers

"... if one of those people puts something malicious in the software and is distributed to all the machines, then that one person could be responsible for change of, possibly tens of thousands of votes, maybe even hundreds of thousands across the country. That's the very danger of the situation."


"So if you can hack the memory cards, you can control an election"

_________

"The good commissioner decided... this May 10, 2010 ... that practically debunks the provision of the law with regards section 6 of Republic Act No. 9369 under the title minimum system capabilities."
________

"One, it did not minimize cheating; in fact, it opened up more windows of opportunity to cheat in manners which would be very difficult for non-IT familiar watchers to comprehend."

--Vice-Gov. Emmanuel Pinol, North Cotabato


First Automated Polls Fail

"If this goes unattended, this country goes kaput in every elections."

_________

Proof of Fraud from Known Politicians      -      Modern way Cheating
"I was surprised when he asked me if I am willing to engage his services, including those of his partners to guarantee the victory of my entire slate in the province. He further told me that they could manipulate the PCOS machines and as a matter of fact, all PCOS machines will be reprogrammed before elections to accommodate all politicians who will enlist their services"

-- Gov. Ace Barbers, Surigao del Norte

"It is easier to cheat in this elections because it is all automatic"

-- Pastor Ronald Tan, Vice-Mayoralty candidate, Tagaytay City


Those who Deny the Truth to be Heard

"It is not their right at all to hear it in my committee. The committee has the right to hear this in executive session. If he wants to speak, the cameras please go down to the parking lot and listen to him."

-- Cong. Teddy Boy Locsin


Truth that Every Filipino Deserves       -    For a Country Free of Fraud & Corruption

"We must uncover truth now. I am saying this: we must prosecute this individuals now. If it is really his desire and claim to rid this nation of corruption, start here, start with this election."

-- Pastor Ronald Tan of Tagaytay City


Uncovering the Truth

Question: "Are you guys telling us that Noynoy Aquino and Jejomar Binay are not the winners?

"To really uncover truth, now whether or not it is Noynoy or whether or not it is Erap or whether or not it is Villar, that is actually a... that's beside the point."
-- Pastor Tan


Who made the Problems

"The Problem is not about the law. It was about the implementation and the people behind."


Knowing who Really won the Elections

"Erap Estrada won. But in the election returns that was used in the canvass, it was Noynoy Aquino who won."
-- Atty. Arnold Bayobay


Leaders willing to Tell All - Know how they Made Fun on the Elections

"The Elections held on May 10, 2010 is illegal and unconstitutional. Here, you don't come out with a receipt, insert your card...ah, the ballot and you get "Congratulations." 'Congratulations, stupid.'... hehe.

"The sooner we throw this fellow out into the Mindanao Pit, the better it will be for us."

-- Ex-Cong. Homobono Adaza


Be Strong, Fight for the Truth    -    Learn the Whole Truth

"Let us build the house of this country that is founded on rock, beginning today."

-- ex-Assemblyman Adaza


[Media Complicity?]

"Nothing is changed since Martial Law, except that the people following you are more invisible and have more power because if they can control media, they can control the way you think. And we cannot allow the mainstream media to control the way we think, into thinking that this was the cleanest elections that we ever had."
-- Sen. Madrigal


Question: "The question is right behind our guests. Where did our votes go? What do I tell my family?"

The forum  held at the Manila Polo Club was attended by some 500 people that included intellectuals, civil society leaders, NGOs, academics, corporate executives, religious, student leaders, retired military and police officers, socialites and a few European diplomats.

The MIGHT e2010 coalition includes the Philippine Computer Society, Bro. Eddie Villanueva's Bangon Pilipinas, Councilor Jc de los Reyes' Ang Kapatiran Party, Anti-Trapo Movement of the Philippines, Brigada Berde, Bantay Garci 2010, Mahal Ko Bayan Ko, Center for Alternative Development Initiatives, Buklod National Political Party, Quezon City Political Coalition for Truth,  Para Sa Bansa Movement, Buklod Political Party, ATRIPPEDA.


References:


WHERE DID OUR VOTES GO? Video presentation of the MIGHT E2010 forum held June 19, 2010, at the Manila Polo Club. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhZISQHOLeQ&feature

Alave, Kristine. New coalition seeks to uncover May 10 automated poll fraud. Inquirer.net. 20 June 2010. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20100620-276637/New_coalition_seeks_to_uncover_May_10_automated_poll_fraud

Cunanan, Buddy. A ‘MIGHT e2010’ Show of Force. Manilatmes.net. 22 June 2010. http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/opinion/19985-a-might-e2010-show-of-force

Santos, Reynaldo. Check presidential votes, too, for possible cheating --watchdog. 21 June 2010. Newsbreak. http://newsbreak.com.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7932&Itemid=88889062

*Selection and Proclamation of National Heroes and Laws Honoring Filipino Historical Figures.  *From the Reference and Research Bureau Legislative Research Service, House of Congress. Site.  http://www.ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/culture-profile/culture-profile-nationalhero.php

************

Why I am Voting Joseph "Erap" Estrada

Joseph "Erap" Ejercito Estrada, the 13th President of the Philippine Republic. So unceremoniously deposed by the conspiracy of political opportunists, unpatriotic businessmen, misenlightened Church prelates, seditious military elements and stupid gullible mob during the January 2001 EDSA 2 "People  Power" coup.

Why vote for him in his renewed bid for the presidency  this coming May 10, 2010 elections? There are several very good historical, moral and practical reasons why I support him. In this evolving post in the countdown to election day, I explain my vote.

1. Erap is a Nationalist.

In September 2009 speech, Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile took to the Senate floor  in defense of the former President against the tirades of now-Senator-on-the-run-for-murder-raps Panfilo Lacson. In his  characterization of Estrada as a matter of personal privilege, he recounted the struggle of the nationalists, Estrada well included, in moving to terminate the protracted RP-US Military Bases Agreement.

Enrile describes Estrada as someone who has "proved to be a true nationalist," being part of the eleven other Senators who dared vote for the abrogation of the Bases Agreement. This came despite the strong lobbying done by the pro-Bases advocates, led by no less than President Corazon C. Aquino. The pro-Bases forces tried to push for the extension of United States military presence in the country, some 92 years after the Americans colonized the land and over four decades after the Bases Agreement was first forged. Estrada and the other anti-Bases senators were denounced as the "The Dirty Dozen" by those who had no sense to assert Filipino sovereignty; on the other, the progressive nationalist groups hailed them as "The Magnificent Twelve."

On April 19, 1988 during his 51st birthday, then-Sen. Joseph Estrada delivered his privilege speech for the abrogation of the U.S. Bases Agreement. Erap's words can still remembered for its stirring and clarion call for the nation to muster its will and courage to assert its independence and take on the path of self-sufficiency:

Let this be our finest hour as we face the judgment of history. We have become so dependent on the Americans that we have not learned to be self-sufficient. Our country has been seen as a nation of beggars, a nation of prostitutes, a nation of cheaters, a nation of domestic helpers. And if we do not assert ourselves today, we will also be known as a nation of cowards. This I cannot accept and this, we must not accept.

The role of the 12 Anti-Bases senators in heeding the sovereign call for real Philippine independence free of the military presence of its former colonizers cannot be discounted. Prior to his vote, Erap even did his laudable part in the propaganda campaign to bring the issue to a people long bathed in colonial conditioning with the movie he produced himself, "Sa Kuko ng Agila. " Co-starring former Sen. Nikki Coseteng,  the movie took potshots at the American bases in anticipation of its scheduled expiration in 1991.

Estrada stars in "Sa Kuko ng Agila"

Estrada  obviously did not do the abrogation of the neo-colonial treaty himself. Even prior to the "Magnificent 12" senators, the likes of Claro M. Recto came before in the decades-long campaign against what was then the greatest symbol and tool of continuing neo-imperialist US influence in the country. However, Estrada's use of popular cinema--with his craft, charm and connection with the masses--undoubtedly proved an effectively tool that helped crystallize the cause of Anti-Bases movement in the masses' mind and ready the Filipinos for the historic change the true patriots and nationalists have long been aspiring and working for.

(To be continued....)

__________


References

Enrile, Juan Ponce. Enrile defends Estrada. 22 September 2009. Ellen Tordesillas Blog. http://www.ellentordesillas.com/?p=7336

Erap's Famous Speech on U.S. Bases Philippines. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXXw_cRzhYo

Cory Aquino Tributes & the Edsa 2 Denial Syndrome

Companion YouTube Video here:

Cory Aquino Tributes & the Philippine StoryCory Aquino Tributes & the Philippine Story (EDSA 1, 2, & 3)




The necrological services on the fourth day of the wake of former President Corazon Aquino struck this column as disconcertingly Edsa 2 in composition and sound, no matter that the VIPs who remained in their pews represented all the Edsa revolts--Edsa 1, 2 & 3. Except for Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay, the public figures who took the podium were movers or stalwarts of the 2001 "People Power" power grab.

There were, of course, the touching and insightful anecdotes from Cory's relatives and family or private friends, but the speeches of Congressman Teddy "Boy" Locsin, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, the wife of ex-House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Arroyo party-mate lead prosecutor in Estrada's impeachment trial, Mayor Sonny Belmonte--along with the mentioned seated presence of ex-President Fidel Ramos--seemed much too much a reminder of the 2001 Edsa conspiracy. Lim, it should be recalled, was the Secretary of Local Government who deserted his Commander-in-Chief, President Joseph "Erap" Estrada, during the penultimate day of Edsa 2; meanwhile, Locsin was one of those who actively campaigned for the "withdrawal of support" against Estrada. Fidel Ramos, on the other, is the ex-President Estrada wanted investigated for the "Centennial Expo" scandal but who connived with then Vice-President Gloria Arroyo, ex-President Aquino, Jaime Cardinal Sin, and business and military elements in unseating the popularly elected leader.



Add to this were the speeches of Cory's son, Sen. Noynoy Aquino, and Locsin that seemed to suggest that Edsa 2 was not at all a blunder. In no way was the 2001 "People Power" coup d'état "--of which President Aquino was a key advocate--actually mentioned by the politicians and private and religious speakers who paid the late President a tribute on that day, or the entire wake and burial, it seemed. Actually, the Edsa 2 ousting of President Estrada described by foreign news media back then as "'a defeat for due process," as "mob rule," as "a de facto coup,'" but ridiculously hailed by the traditional local media as a triumph of "democracy and "People Power," was most conspicuously a no-mention in the Cory tribute activities, funeral and media coverage thereof. Like a scourge, a leprous part of Cory's and the nation's recent history. The omission of Edsa 2 in all references to the contributions of the female "democracy icon" to Philippine politics was an almost unwritten rule. Recollections and images of the 1986 Edsa 1 "People Power" bombarded the screens, pages, and programs of news/opinion media but there appeared nary a single reference to the divisive and counter-democratic 2001 Edsa coup.



In recounting her mother's uncanny courage, unwavering love, faith in God, and righteous determination in service of patriotic duty even in the face of military artillery, Noynoy mused how he has not yet seen her "make a mistake" ("hindi ko pa ho siya nakitang nagkamali"). In describing how his stint with Cory as one of her advisers (Press Secretary) had led him to a "moral discovery," Locsin described her as "a woman who never did wrong." Of course, the contexts of these descriptions of Cory as perfect in no way referred to Edsa 2. Noynoy's remarks are especially understandable, coming from a son in tribute to his remarkable and beloved mother.



Then again, didn't Noynoy earlier try to present her mother's apology as having been said in 'jest'? The apology was made during ex-Speaker Jose De Venecia's book launching last December 2008. It was Cory's turn to take the stage and at some point in her speech, looked at Estrada and said: "I am one of those who plead guilty in 2001. All of us make mistakes, just please forgive me."

Can something as serious as a matter of an apology over a conspiratorial ouster be possibly turned into a humor by President Aquino? Even in the supposed context of an exchange of humorous quips, it seemed out-of-character for a sincere, truthful and honest Cory to publicly make any such "joke."


I reviewed the news clip on that famous apology and, based from the late President's facial expressions and slight turn of the head away from Estrada's gaze just before she let out the fateful words of apology, it revealed either a hesitancy or a moment of unease that come from a feeling of regret or some shame. Take note that her apology came after she was diagnosed with cancer. It seemed that even for an honest and sincere person like her, it had to take the diagnosis of an often-terminal disease before the admission of guilt to a great blunder could be made. A blogger earlier wrote that people should just "ask Cory" to clarify whether it was a 'joke.' Well, she did clarify it through her spokeswoman who said that it was indeed said in "jest," "But she's not taking it back". Unless the Cory who apologized wasn't at all the Cory we knew, saying it in jest merely served as the vehicle to express what she had long wanted to tell.

For the latest Philippine news stories & videos, visit GMANews.TV

Based from the feelings of having been "betrayed," as violently expressed by the few remaining but very loud Edsa 2 forces across the blogosphere and the traditional media, President Aquino's apology has been widely read as real. Puzzlingly, a number of these same people also assert it was all a joke. It appears they're out on a damage control operation of sorts to protect their reputation as "decent" and "intelligent" people who definitely knew better than Erap's "less educated" supporters--and Cory's non-withdrawal of support for Edsa 2 was an important component of it.



Edsa 2 Amnesia or Edsa 2 Sanitizing?


Nonetheless, amidst the eulogies and media's pronounced harping on Cory's contribution in toppling Marcos, her succeeding presidency, and her campaign against the Arroyo presidency--while being almost dead silent on her role in the intervening unseating of Estrada and 2004 presidential campaign for Arroyo--the necrological services sounded not only like a silent approval of Estrada's unconstitutional ouster but also a deliberate and dishonest representation of the late President. Cory, after all, tried her best to undo her grievous and misguided support of Arroyo. Firstly, in 2005, she asked for the latter's resignation following the "Hello Garci" electoral fraud expose, befriended and supported the widow of the "defeated" presidential candidate Fernando Poe, Jr., and later, in December 2008, publicly apologized to Estrada for the 2001 "uprising."

Why are these prominent chapters of Cory's public life conspicuously missing in the tributes offered to her? Obviously, the Edsa 2 no-mention that gradually began a few years ago only means that the 2001 exercise is a discredited "People Power" movement. Still, the question is whether Cory's sustained campaign against the present administration's excesses and greed for power can stand on its own in the chapter on her post-presidency? Why, even her anti-Cha-Cha campaign during Ramos' time was hardly mentioned, if at all.



Is Cory a "democracy icon" only because of her role in ousting Marcos, restoring free elections, bringing back the system of check and balances, and helping ratify the 1987 Constitution? Or is President Aquino the "mother of democracy" because she continuously worked to preserve democracy, including through her sincere efforts to undo the damage she helped inflict on it when, in not trusting the system she herself restored, she chose the Machiavellian path and worked for Erap's ouster?

In the first place, would President Aquino have really wanted a sanitized version of her life in a book dedicated to the Filipino people? The religious, the friends, the politicians--they have all been hailing her for being "honest," "sincere," "clean," "moral," and "transparent"--traits reflected in her presidency and in her post-1992 advocacies. Shouldn't it be proper that such uncanny honesty and truthfulness, to be tempered of course by due respect, also mark the eulogies and tributes to her? Wouldn't Tita Cory have preferred to be remembered for what she truly was--unpretentious in her ways and beliefs?



A sober one may get to wonder--are they merely protecting Cory's memory, or protecting their own "reputation" and interests? A case of collective amnesia, or conspiracy of silence? A 2001 New York Times article should remind them how Edsa 2 operated outside the democratic framework:

The man they overthrew, Joseph Estrada, was a democratically elected president half way through his six-year term. The popular uprising took place when it became clear that due process ? his impeachment trial in the Senate ? would not produce the result many people hoped for: his removal by constitutional means.

Cory a "Saint"?

Unfortunately, the sanitizing, nay, sanctifying, bandwagon seems not confined to the local media. Time magazine will feature Cory Aquino once more as cover article, calling her a "Saint of Democracy." In a precursor article entitled "People Power's Philippine Saint," author Howard Chua-Eoan devoted just one sentence to the now discredited Edsa 2—but even misrepresented Aquino's role in it by claiming that "She joined crowds that led to the overthrow" of Estrada. My, my, since when has "led" become synonymous with "joined"?



A Yellow Celebration of Cory

Of course, the fourth day eventually turned multi-colored as two of the Marcos children came to the wake. The earlier days and nights of the wake also showed the broad spectral range of political forces that "Tita Cory's" death managed to unite--a trend seen from the first day of the wake until the historic funeral on August 5, 2009. Every one of every political color came, the more notable of whom was the primary victim of the 2001 conspiracy of which Cory was a party to--President Estrada who came with his cabinet members in full force, along with his wife ex-Sen. Loi and son Sen. Jinggoy. The half-sister of Arroyo, Cielo Macapagal-Salcedo, also attended the funeral mass. Even Arroyo came to the wake in the wee hours of the funeral day.

I'm proud to have been part of the historic funeral, at least part of it. We were actually late for the requiem mass but we reached Roxas Blvd. just after the cortege left Manila Cathedral. As we approached, a sea of near-yellow was coming to our direction--flocks of people in either yellow tops, ribbons, jackets, or caps emerging from the Anda Circle in Bonifacio Drive. Yellow balloons were flying to the air, as some people held or tied similar balloons to their vehicles. We witnessed the yellow and white confetti showers from a green military helicopter flying rather close to ground. For a moment there, it seemed that the spirit of the genuine and original "People Power" were upon us. Actually, I could swear it was.

From our position, in the center island across one of Metro Manila's fire trucks parked along the Manila Bay side of the boulevard, we saw people who lined the streets wave the "L" for "Laban" ("Fight") sign at each other, to those in the funeral procession, and to the VIP, participants' and media vehicles passing by both lanes. People chanted "Cory" or "Laban." We joined in the act of solidarity that felt like a combination of mourning, revelry, and militancy against the perceived enemy of democracy, Gloria Arroyo's government. I remember the media vehicles, banners representing various groups including some militant organizations, and even some Mar Roxas placards/banners that appeared like a show of irreverent politicking. At any rate, everybody just seemed one that day.

The flat-bed truck passed bedecked with beautiful yellow flowers, and in the middle was President Aquino's casket draped in the Philippine flag. Holding back my tears, I stood in silent reverence and muttered "Goodbye, Cory. You were not perfect but seemed to have always done what you think was best for the people." The honor guards looked both impressive and gallant, as befit a funeral for a well-loved former leader of the land. The Cojuangco Family bus, or one of possibly several, passed by the left lane and the "L" sign continued to be exchanged. Pervading the air was the spirit of solidarity behind Cory, her family, and the ideals she campaigned for, as much as the mixed feelings of mourning and jubilation of a public life well lived. It seemed like Edsa 1 all over again--Filipinos united for the common cause of democracy and marching behind the yellow rays of the sun, the revered color symbol of Cory's "Laban" ("Fight") for democracy.

"Laban," "Cory," "Erap"

The trip to Cory's funeral was rather long and hard, given the bad weather, but I had no intention of missing this historic and meaningful moment. I had decided to offer my humble time and presence to her in honor of our country and in recognition of her fallible but patriotic and lovingly heroic campaigns for democracy. Just a glimpse of her cortege, and being part of the crowd was enough, well enough.

Then, we got our unexpected bonus. President Estrada's vehicle approached, as we were alerted to it by others along the island. Oh, girl! Another imperfect but beloved figure! I grabbed the chance and did as others did--reached through the open window and shook the waving hand of a smiling Erap! As he passed by us, some of the small crowd in our position still chanted "Erap, Erap." I unfortunately never got to see Cory close up in person--not alive, not dead (because I chose to attend the funeral than queue for the wake's public viewing) but the case turned out differently for Estrada. Yes, I've seen him before a couple of times but always only from a distance.

It was a mixed feeling being up close to the man I never voted for--not even as Senator and Vice-President--but who became my President after I realized the fallacy of the "Erap Resign!" and eventual ouster / Edsa 2 movement. Estrada is the President I now reluctantly liken to our other national hero, Andres Bonifacio, on account of their being both pro-masa and having been victimized by a conspiracy of the elites. Of course, Erap can't compare with Bonifacio in most respects--much in the similar manner that Arroyo is far, far worse than Aguinaldo. Perhaps, it's a reflection of the times they lived in or the disastrous politico-cultural effect of America's colonization of the country. I'm not sure....

Love and Respect



The outpouring of sympathy or support for Cory was spectacular, as we soon found out after deciding to be part of the "advance party" by moving ahead of the cortege from Roxas Boulevard, to Quirino Avenue, to Osmena Avenue, and to South Superhighway until Makati. The lines of ordinary people waiting for President Aquino's cortege to pass by on the way to Manila Memorial Park were thick on both sides. Old and young people showed ardent and spontaneous feelings of love and respect. There were organized "tourists" from the provinces who carried small and big banners or placards with tribute lines for Cory.


The urban poor carried makeshift placards with touching messages, ranging from the simpler "Mahal ka Namin," and "Salamat, Cory Aquino;" to the more militant "Ipagpapatuloy po namin ang inyong ipinaglaban," and rather poignant Cory quote "'Take care of each other.' --Ina ng Bayan" or something to that effect. I remember yellow balloons also dancing in the air among the waiting crowds along the Quirino Ave. leg of the funeral procession exit, along with yellow plastics tied to one or more pedicabs and other vehicles. A low, single-sitter carriage powered by a beautiful brown horse caught much attention. I even noticed a woman grasping a dove. Some held pictures of Cory: a woman holding a big banner-size framed picture of the late President proceeded alone, as if trying to make sure that others remember Tita Cory. There were some banners and placards that bore Arroyo's name, rather indignant ones that asked for her ouster.



We ended our offering for Cory around past 2PM, turning right at Zobel Roxas Avenue in Makati. News reports later showed us the more complete picture of the funeral procession and confirmed our experience, partial though it may be, of the massive outpouring of love and sympathy for the 11th President of the Philippines. In this case, still pictures (and videos) tell it all--Filipinos united for the wake and burial of Cory Aquino.


Cory Magic Renewed

I was mildly and joyfully flabbergasted by the very massive and heartfelt outpouring of sympathy and support for President Aquino. I was initially skeptical because I knew that the "Cory Magic" had long faded away, and wasn't even able to secure Arroyo's victory in the 2004 presidential polls without the latter having needed to cheat the "Hello Garci" style. As we moved along Quirino Highway towards the Makati City part of South Superhighway, I realized that months before her death, she had managed to win back the population she alienated when she joined the rather elitist movement against a highly popular and incumbent President. The human sea of love, that included the "great unwashed," made me certain that before she bade Filipinos goodbye, Tita Cory managed to unite the forces of the two successful and one unsuccessful "People Power" exercises in Edsa.

She began the healing process some five years back with her show of touching kindness to Fernando Poe, Jr. whom she visited when he was in the throes of death. Next, Cory issued, in effect, the posthumous acknowledgement that FPJ was the genuinely elected 14th President of the Philippines when she asked her former protégé Gloria Arroyo to resign and "make the supreme sacrifice." She sealed her renewed covenant with the Filipino masses--within the context of the higher goal of preserving democracy--when she publicly voiced her apology to Estrada over her part in the big blunder of Edsa 2 soon after she was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer.


The late 2008 apology to the imperfect Estrada, the "Father of the Masses" was Cory's supreme show of statesmanship. True to form, the late President once more demonstrated her remarkable sense of humility and determination to do what is righteous, even if it meant admitting to her own wrong. In the process, Cory dared defy, and invited the cruel ridicule of, the still unrepentant Edsa 2 gullibles and conspirators--those traitors to the 1987 Constitution, conceited subverters of the spirit of Edsa 1, pretentious conspirators against genuine Philippine democracy.

Cory: Edsa1, EDSA2, Edsa 3

Some news pieces/videos carried titles to the effect of claiming that "Cory brings people back to the streets.' What is the more complete picture is that Cory was able to restore the "People Power" zeal that Edsa 2--of which she was one of the leaders--almost killed. It was her apology and subsequent friendship with Estrada that helped lead to the reunification of a country split by Edsa 2 and the unsuccessful Edsa 3 and their consequences.

To gloss over the mistakes of President Cory, if not categorically depict a persona of political infallibility, is to cover up not only her mortal blunders but her admirable efforts to correct or undo them for the sake of the nation. To deny Cory's wrongs is to deny what her actions revealed to the Filipinos--that Estrada should not have been deposed and Arroyo not have been installed as successor in 2001, and that Fernando Poe Jr. had been cheated of the Philippine presidency. To deny or even omit her misguided roles in Edsa 2 and the 2004 campaign for Arroyo is to censor factual and reported parts of Cory's history. To deny Cory's public apology over the Edsa 2 coup d'état is to misrepresent her sincere brand of patriotism, and to deceive not only one's self but, also, the entire Filipinos.

To maliciously rewrite history by glossing over or excluding the fact of Cory's sincere apology and gestures of making up with the key victims of Edsa 2--Estrada and FPJ--is to pretend that those important chapters in her life and the nation's did not happen. President Aquino realized and did not hesitate to take personal responsibility for the 2001 and 2004 conspiracies to subvert the workings of the very democracy that she restored in memory of her husband Ninoy Aquino.



The remaining unapologetic anti-Estrada forces of Edsa 2 may claim Cory as exclusively Edsa 1 in her death. That would be so far from the truth because it was her show of statewomanly humility to admit to blunders amidst her consistent patriotic yearnings that have endeared the "People Power" President back to those alienated by her role in the undemocratic January 2001 exercise. Cory herself would have corrected those eulogies and tributes that sanitized her role in Philippine politics. I'm so sure that the sincere, honest, and transparent President Cory would have asked that she be pictured for everything she has done--as Edsa 1 "People Power" heroine; as part of the Edsa 2 fallacy; and a mortal "mother of democracy" that made peace with the movers of Edsa 3, the Filipino masses.

_____________________

References:

Beech, Hannah. "Corazon Aquino 1933-2009: The Saint of Democracy." Time. 17 August 2009. http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1914872,00.html?loomia_si=t0:a16:g2:r3:c0.169565:b26885172&xid=Loomia
Calica, Aurea and Porcalla, Delon. "Cory apology to Erap dismays EDSA players." Philstar. 8 August 2009. http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleid=426412
Chua-Eoan, Howard. "People Power's Philippine Saint: Corazon Aquino." Time. 1 August 2009. http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1914125-2,00.html
"Erap, Cabinet pay last respects to Cory." GMA News. 2 August 2009. http://www.gmanews.tv/story/168869/Erap-Cabinet-pay-last-respects-to-Cory
Estrada's son lambasts Gordon on Cory apology. The
Manila Times. 26 December 2009. http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/dec/26/yehey/metro/20081226met2.html
Laurel, Herman Tiu. "Learning from CCA." The Daily Tribune. 3 August 2009. http://www.tribune.net.ph/commentary/20090803com4.html
Mydan, Seth. "Expecting Praise, Filipinos Are Criticized for Ouster." The New York Times. 5 February 2001. http://www.nytimes.com/2001/02/05/world/05FILI.html?ex=1204174800&en=835b6565116a0dd1&ei=5070
"Palace brags Gloria first in reconciling with Erap." The Daily Tribune. 24 December 2008. http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20081224hed2.html
"Saksi: Cory apologizes for taking part in People Power 2." GMA News.TV. 22 December 2008. http://www.gmanews.tv/video/33611/Saksi-Cory-apologizes-for-taking-part-in-People-Power-2
VERA Files. Cory back on Time magazine cover, dubbed 'Saint of Democracy.' 7 August 2009. http://www.verafiles.org/index.php/focus/295-cory-back-on-time-magazine-cover
Vigilia, Wendell. "Cory to Erap: Sorry for Edsa 2." Malaya. 23 December 2009. http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec23/news6.htm

Photo Credits:

ABS-CBN. www.abs-cbnnews.com
Associated Press. www.ap.org/
Corazon Aquino (1933 - 2009). Washington Post. 31 July 2009. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/gallery/2009/07/31/GA2009073103281.html?sid=ST2009073103362
Ellen Tordesillas Blog. http://www.ellentordesillas.com
http://www.geocities.com
Gomez, Jim. "Filipinos bid farewell to democracy icon Aquino." Newsvine. 2 August 2009. http://www.newsvine.com/_news/2009/08/02/3106398-aquino-mourned-at-wake-by-thousands-of-filipinos
Kapirasong Kritika Site. http://kapirasongkritika.files.wordpress.com
GMA 7 News. http://www.gmanews.tv/
Inquirer.net. http://www.inquirer.net/
Official website of President Corazon Aquino. www.coryaquino.ph
Time Magazine. http://www.time.com
Vera Files. http://www.verafiles.org/