PHILIPPINE SEAFARERS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME, ROTTERDAM Joint Issue NO: 112 September - December 2001 Misuari revives war, vows to pursue Moro independence NUR MISUARI has finally gone back The Army said Misuari’s impending renegade official would flee across the to the hills and his faction of the Moro removal as governor of the Autonomous sea to Malaysia, an Army spokesperson National Liberation Front (MNLF) has Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) said “If we see his boat we will sink it.” reverted to its original position of had provoked Misuari to take up arms. There are reports, however, that fighting for an independent Islamic state, Misuari’s aide Abdurahman Jamasali Misuari has already fled to Malaysia. a top-ranking MNLF official said. said they staged the attacks to prevent Some 4,000 soldiers are pursuing Misuari the holding of ARMM polls on Nov. 26. and his 400 to 600 fighters through the The attack in the morning of November towns of Panamao, Indanan and Patikul. 19 on the headquarters of the Army’s In the meantime, as a massive counter- The Navy has stationed gun ships in 104th Infantry Brigade in Jolo was just offensive and the hunt for Misuari Mindanao Sea to prevent the rebels from the start of the MNLF’s renewed continued, the death toll rose to over a fleeing to Malaysia struggle for a separate Bangsa Moro hundred, and about 10,000 residents state, said Ibrahim Omar, chair of the have been displaced by the fighting. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo MNLF’s information committee. “This ordered that rebellion charges be filed will spread all over Mindanao as we Military officials made it clear that they against Misuari. Interior Secretary Joey pursue our struggle for independence,” intended to get Misuari dead or alive. he said. Amid reports that the 60 year-old cont’d on page 10

Macapagal-Arroyo to United Nations: End Poverty, End Terrorism BUSH GIVES HELP TO FIGHT ABU SAYYAF

rebel group that engages in kidnapping guarantees for agricultural exports worth for ransom. Bush called the assistance $150 million, food aid of up to $40 “an extension of the US-led war against million and a $200-million credit line terrorism in Afghanistan.” through the US Overseas Private THE UNITED STATES government Investment Corp. Bush said he would offered troops to help fight Abu Sayyaf At a press briefing afterward, the two also ask Congress to free up $29 million terrorists in Mindanao, but President leaders reaffirmed their commitment to to help ease poverty, boost economic Arroyo declined the offer, saying the cooperate in the fight against terrorism in growth and combat corruption in the Armed Forces of the Philippines can deal their own way “no matter how long and cont’d on page 10 with the Muslim extremist group. wherever it takes.” In a joint statement, Bush said the US would provide some Meeting with Mrs. Arroyo at the Oval $100 million “in security assistance” to Inside Office in the White House, US President help the Arroyo administration combat Special: George W. Bush pledged instead military the Abu Sayyaf. On top of the military and economic aid to boost the assistance, Bush said he would ask Season’s government’s campaign against the Abu Congress to provide the Philippines Greetings Sayyaf bandits in Mindanao, a Muslim with over $1 billion in trade benefits and Parola Joint Issue no. 112 - September - December 2001 - Page 1 EDITORIAL .... about this issue TERRORISM: THE CAUSE AND THE REMEDY THIS DOUBLE ISSUE of Parola straddles two profoundly contrasting periods. On the one The whole world has been radically changed in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks in hand, there is the panic, anxiety the US. Even the international maritime industry has not been exempt from the severe and gloom of the months of consequences of those attacks. Filipino seafarers, especially those working on cruise September and October 2001, ships, have become unknowing victims of the war began on September 11. Many of which will be forever remembered them lost their jobs, and the prospects of their re-employment are not so good. with sadness all over the world. The terror attacks in the US and How should seafarers make sense of all these unfolding developments which, in one the bombing of Afghanistan are way or another, have affected their work, their families back home, and their personal the notorious global landmarks of lives? this period. On the other hand, We at PSAP will not presume to give any definite answer to this question. However, there is the period of November what we can do is share to our readers a practical insight which could certainly help all of and December 2001, whose us understand the underlying message of recent events. The insight comes from Sri Sri hallmark is the celebration of the Ravi Shankar, a wise and gentle voice from India. Here it is: joyful Yuletide in the entire Christian world and the peaceful The act which is only destructive and inflicts suffering both on oneself and others is observance of Ramadan in the terrorism. In such an act, human values are lost in the process of achieving a goal. Muslim world. We would like to reflect the mood of these two Some of the factors that lead to terrorism are: periods in this special issue of * Frustration and desperation to achieve a goal Parola, always keeping in mind * Confused emotion that the period of hope came after, * Shortsightedness and Impulsive action and therefore overcame, the period * Belief in a non-verifiable concept of heaven and merit; a childish concept of God of despair. This means that we can favoring some and angry at others, thereby undermining the omniscience and be both courageous and cheerful as omnipotence of the Divine. we bid farewell to a passing year and welcome the bright promise of Terrorism induces fear and psychosis in all, increases poverty, suffering and loss of life with no apparent gains. Instead of solutions the terrorist looks for destruction as an 2002. answer. If you simply criticize without giving a solution, know that this criticism comes from the same seed as terrorism! Parola expresses its gratitude to those who contributed especially to Although there are certain qualities you can appreciate in a terrorist such as: this issue. Ambassador Eloy Bello * Fearlessness III, a true and tested friend of the * Commitment to a goal Filipino migrant community in the * Sacrifice Netherlands, had taken time out to you will have to learn from them things that you should never do: send his Christmas greetings to all * Valuing some ideas and concepts more than life. Filipino seafarers. Onno de Zwart, * Having a narrow perspective of life and dishonoring its diversity. who is definitely the person to reckon with in the Municipal The Remedy for terrorism is: Health Service of Rotterdam, has * Inculcate a broader perspective of life — value life more than race, religion and written for Parola’s health column. nationality. You will find his tips for our * Educate people in human values - friendliness, compassion, cooperation and caring. * Teach methods to release stress and tension. marinong kababayan visiting * Cultivate confidence in achieving noble aims by peaceful and nonviolent means. Rotterdam very useful indeed. And * Create spiritual upliftment which can weed out destructive tendencies. then, there is a spiritual reflection from super Sailing Chaplain Rey Question: Can it be that terrorism need not be only physical violence, but also cultural or Eliseo. Have you really ever economical? pondered on the question: “What Sri Sri: Yes. Solution for economic violence - “Think globally, buy locally.” Solution for does Christmas mean to me?” cultural violence - “Broaden your vision, deepen your roots.” Question: How does one cope with the aftermath of terrorism? The Board, the Staff and the Sri Sri: Faith and prayer. When disaster happens, anger is inevitable. To take Volunteers of PSAP wish you all a precautions that one does not react wisdom is needed, not emotional outbursts. One very Merry Christmas and a truly mistake cannot be corrected by another mistake. Strive for multi-cultural and multi- prosperous and peaceful New religious education and spiritual upliftment to reach every part of the globe. For the world Year! will not be safe even if a small pocket of people are left ignorant.

Parola Joint Issue no.112 - September - December 2001 - Page 2 Senate finalizes draft bill on Supreme Court rules plunder law Baldoz asked the CLA to set a grace absentee voting, GMA assures its constitutional period until Dec. 1 pending the issuance passage of new POEA procedures to adopt the new policies, as well as sufficient Sen. Edgardo Angara, chairman of the The Supreme Court voted to uphold the information dissemination among OFWs. Senate committee on suffrage and country’s anti-plunder law-junking The POEA chief stressed the “need to electoral reforms, declared a “dramatic Joseph Estrada’s petition for lack of inform departing workers of the revised breakthrough” in the quest of some six merit and effectively ensuring that the CLA regulations to guide them in their million overseas Filipinos to vote in deposed President spend Christmas in decision to work in Taiwan based on national elections. This came after a jail. fully disclosed terms and conditions of technical panel convened by the employment. committee had finalized a draft bill that With a vote of 10 against the petition, would finally give flesh to the provision four in favor, and one abstention, the After Hong Kong, Taiwan is the largest of the 1986 Constitution for absentee high court removed all legal obstacles to voting. destination of OFWs in the Asia Pacific, the prosecution of Estrada, his son and with some 80,000 Filipinos working in former San Juan mayor Jinggoy Estrada, He said that his committee would the dominantly Chinese country. and his lawyer Edward Serapio for conduct public hearings on the bill here (PDI 14 Nov 2001) and abroad to see how the measure could allegedly stealing more than four billion be further improved and refined. The pesos from the nation’s coffers. Plunder draft bill empowers all overseas Filipinos is a non-bailable offense and is Morality, anti-prostitution law of voting age to register and vote for punishable by life imprisonment or president, vice president, senators and death. best antidote vs AIDS: Macapagal party-list representatives. However, those who have acquired foreign Estrada’s petition had challenged the President Macapagal-Arroyo said the citizenship are disqualified from voting. constitutionality of the anti-plunder law, best antidotes against HIV-AIDS are a arguing that some of its provisions were “high level of morality and a law against The panel decided not to include local vague. The court found that the law was prostitution.” elective posts, including congressman, in not vague as Estrada claimed, and did absentee voting as it would make the not violate his right to due process, Ms Macapagal made her prescription scheme more complicated. paving the way for the Sandiganbayan to during an Asean sharing of experiences go ahead with the trial. on how to best address the problem “the Registration can be done by mail or scourge of mankind” called HIV-AIDS. personally through the embassies and Asked how he would resume his normal The Philippines has adopted the Asean consulates where overseas Filipinos are life if he is able to post bail, Estrada said, Declaration on HIV-AIDS during the based. Canvassing will be done in Manila “I will start writing my memoirs with the although there is a proposal to pilot-test two-day Asean summit in Brunei, help of a professional writer.” the canvassing in selected areas abroad. endorsing the second phase of the Asean The draft bill prohibits personal (Phil Daily Inquirer 20 Nov 2001) program from 2001 to 2004. campaigning abroad. “There was a sharing of best experiences RP urges Taiwan Meanwhile President Gloria Macapagal- and I said in our country, the best way to to defer law for OFWs Arroyo assured the passage of the laws address AIDS is to have a high level of on absentee voting and dual citizenship morality and not to have prostitutes,” The Philippine Government has asked aimed to benefit millions of overseas Ms Macapagal told her audience. Filipin os, particularly in the United the Taiwan Council of Labor Affairs (CLA) to defer the application of its new States. She said Indonesian president Megawati employment laws to overseas Filipino was impressed that she plans to also Macapagal said she expects the workers in the territory. The revised enact a law against prostitution in proposals on absentee voting and dual laws of the CLA Taiwan provide that Indonesia. citizenship to be passed into law by the manpower agencies can deduct as much middle of 2002. as 4,000 New Taiwan dollars from the Ms. Macapagal took part in the Asean wages of its foreign employees for food summit where the member countries The President encouraged Filipinos and accommodation. Philippine abroad to be more “politically active” on signed a joint declaration on counter- Overseas Employment Administration issues concerning their homeland. terrorism and enhance trade and (POEA) head Rosalinda Baldoz said the (Philippine STAR 10 & 21 Oct 2001; Phil economic activities in the region. new policy has not yet been Daily Inquirer 15 Nov 2001) (PDI 6 Nov 2001) disseminated in the Philippines. Parola Joint Issue no. 112 - September - December 2001 - Page 3 PSAP’s Autumn Offering: Singing Peace

Gary Granada, a well-known Filipino singer and composer, came to visit on October 21, to celebrate “Singing Peace”, one of PSAP’s 20th anniversary projects. Together with PSAP friends, Gary shared an evening of song and fun with the seafaring community in Holland. The event coincides with the Sailing Chaplains Conference in Rotterdam, where Nonoy Ty of the Staff participated actively.

Parola Joint Issue no.112 - September - December 2001 - Page 4 Parola Joint Issue no. 112 - September - December 2001 - Page 5 RP seafarers face job loss due to US practice in a selected number of Presidential Spokesman Rigoberto Tiglao war on Afghanistan countries to enable a comparative said that the President ordered that the analysis to be made of the legal required signature be cut in half or even The Department of Foreign Affairs protection afforded to non-nationals/non- lower. Tiglao said the President learned (DFA) said the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks domiciled seafarers in relation to of the red tape extending up to on the US and the US air strikes on nationals of the flag state concerned. It Malacañang during the briefing given to Afghanistan have resulted in the job loss will also look into the conditions of her and the Cabinet by Labor Secretary of many of the country’s OFWs. The most affected, the DFA noted, are the employment of nationals and non- Patricia Sto. Tomas. Sto. Tomas sea-based OFWs. nationals/non-domiciled seafarers under reportedly cited as one problem the first registers, second registers and other requirement of 76 signatures before a This is because the tourism industry, international registers. Filipino seaman could be deployed in a particularly the cruising industry, had ship abroad. been severely affected by the Sept. 11 The study is being carried out as part of attacks, said DFA spokesperson an initiative to determine the impact, at “The President was surprised to find out Victoriano M. Lecaros. “Unfortunately, ship level, of the accelerating pace of that there is an office at Malacañang that most of the crew members of these ships internationalization in the shipping has to approve certain documents,” he are Filipinos working as waiters and industry in recent years. This process said. He added that the President was chefs,” se said, adding that many even has been manifested through changes in puzzled why so many signatures were employ Filipino employees exclusively the ownership and the management of required. because most can speak English. ships, establishment of new registers, Leisure travel via cruise ships used to be technological developments and crews Acting on the directive of the President, a popular activity among tourists in the consisting of seafarers from different Presidential Management Staff Secretary US. But since the Sept. 11 attacks, most cultures and with different languages. Vicky Garchitorena said Malacañang of the cruise ships based in Florida, approval would no longer be required for Singapore and Hong Kong have stopped The world’s fleet of merchant ships the foreign deployment of Filipino operations. comprises about 80,000 ships of 100 gt seamen. or more. There are more than 1.2 million While there are no records yet on the seafarers serving onboard these ships, Tiglao said it was also found out that at number of sea-based OFWs affected by approximately two-thirds of which are least four signatures at the education the crisis, the DFA said that reports from the Asian region. More and more department are needed by Filipino from embassies in the US confirmed most seafarers are being hired from developing seamen seeking deployment abroad. cruise ships employing OFWs have countries. Major labor supplying (Phil Star, 12 Sept 2001) ceased operation. (Business World Online, October 15, 2001) countries include the Philippines, China, India and Korea. Increasing numbers of seafarers are also being recruited from the European Commissioner warns of terror threat ILO probes impact on crews of Russian Federation and Poland. growing internationalism (Lloyd’s List, 25 Sept 2001) European Commission vice-president The International Labor Organization is and transport commissioner Loyola de conducting a survey of living and Palacio raised fears that shipping could working conditions for seafarers sailing Gloria irked at red tape for be targeted by terrorists. She said the on ships flagged under international Pinoy seamen threat, and how to counter it, was being registers in order to examine the impact reviewed by officials across the EU. The of such registers on their conditions of A Filipino seaman needs at least 76 terrorist threat called for “urgent and in employment. signatures from various government depth” consideration, she added. agencies before he could be considered The results will be used to prepare an for deployment abroad, President De Palacio said that EU bodies were ILO report, and a questionnaire has been Arroyo has learned. conducting a wide-ranging review of sent to labor ministries, maritime shipping security. “Though our top administrations, shipowners’ organizations and seafarers’ The President, who has waged an all-out priority at the moment is air safety, we organizations in all countries with war against red tape in the government, also have to review our approach to maritime activities. was aghast to learn that one of the 76 matters of safety at sea, both on board signatures needed is that from the legal ships and in port”, she said. The study will examine the law and affairs office of Malacañang. (Lloyd’s list, 15 Oct 2001)

Parola Joint Issue no.112 - September - December 2001 - Page 6 HEALTH AND SEAFARING

Health for Seafarers in Rotterdam

Onno de Zwart

Health is an important issue for seafarers. Both aboard and ashore, seafarers want to stay as healthy as possible. Over the years Parola, on many occasions, has paid serious attention to health issues.

The Municipal Health Service Rotterdam works towards a healthy Rotterdam. A healthy Rotterdam is not only for people who live there but also for people who come to visit Rotterdam. The Municipal Health Service is, therefore, active in the field of health promotion, specifically in infectious disease control, youth health care, drug policy and many other related endeavors. Working in the largest port in the world, the Rotterdam Municipal Health Service strives to contribute to the health of the seafarers who visit the city. Health promotion is a job that involves everyone and can only be done with everyone’s cooperation. It can also be a lot of fun to do health promotion together. We are, therefore, very happy to work with and support the PSAP in improving the health of seafarers.

Do you have questions on sexually-transmitted diseases and HIV? Some Tips.

Seafarers often ask a lot of important questions concerning sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and HIV/AIDS. “How can I avoid getting infected?”, “How do I use a condom?”, “What should I do when I suspect I am infected?”, “Is it all right for me to discuss my complaints with people I barely know?”, “Where do I go for proper advice or medication?”.

‘The Singing Mate’ comic book produced by the PSAP gives some general ideas about how seafarers can go about answering these questions. Of course, the best way to protect oneself from STD and HIV/AIDS is to use a condom when having vaginal or anal sex. For anal sex it is also important to use a water-based lubricant. If, for one reason or another, you engage in sex when you are on shore leave, make sure you use a condom. As they say, better safe than sorry! So when on shore, always be sure to have some condoms with you.

Sometimes, seafarers are aware that they have engaged in unprotected sex. Or, they feel there is something wrong in the area of their genitals. In some instances, they know that the discomfort they experience is a complaint that should be referred to a doctor. In all these cases it is important that a seafarer gets tested for STD, and if there is a positive finding, that he gets the necessary treatment immediately. Luckily, most STD can be treated effectively and easily with proper medication. It is also wise to get tested twice a year if one has regular sexual contact with different partners. Bear in mind that sometimes, a seafarer can have a STD without even knowing it. So with or without medical complaints, it is always a good thing for you to be tested.

In Rotterdam a seafarer can pursue any of several options for STD testing and treatment: - The port doctors. They can be contacted through the captain. - The STD Clinic of the Erasmus Medical Centre Rotterdam (Dijkzigt Hospital) at Dr Molenwaterplein 40, telephone (+31) 10-4635877. This clinic is open from Monday to Friday 08.15 - 15.15 hours. - The STD Clinic of the Port Hospital (Haven Hospital) at Haringvliet 2, telephone (+31) 10- 4043417.

One can visit both the STD clinics of the Dijkzigt and the Port Hospital without a previous referral from a captain or doctor. Testing or screening can be done anonymously and for free.

The Municipal Health Service Rotterdam has an information hotline on STD and HIV/AIDS in English: (+31) 10 4339917. This line is open 24 hours a day. You can also ask for referral assistance directly from PSAP anytime.

Love and sex: Don’t worry, be healthy

A couple would engage in sex because they love each other. Others would have sex because they want to share intimacy. Still others have sex to express or explode their lust. And still some others would have sex just to satisfy their curiosity or sense of adventure. Whatever the intention, it is important to remember that sex can lead to health problems, for both the seafarer and his partner. Sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS do not recognize the motivation or intention behind the sexual act. Engaging in unprotected sex is always a risk to your health. Thus, prevention is the best option to fight STD and HIV/AIDS. Use a condom every time you have sex. And if you already have complaints, don’t wait too long or don’t take things for granted. Please visit a doctor as soon a possible. As the song goes, don’t worry, be happy. But stay healthy!

Onno de Zwart is the head of the STD Department of the Municipal Health Service Rotterdam. In promoting a comprehensive health programme for seafarers, he is assisted by Osvaldo de Brito. Onno and his Staff wish all Filipino seafarers a Merry Christmas and good tidings for the New Year.

Parola Joint Issue no. 112 - September - December 2001 - Page 7 Life in the Spirit

WHAT CHRISTMAS MEANS TO ME

Rey P. Eliseo

Christmas comes again. The breeze becomes cooler, the at sea and bear the burden of loneliness than stay at home for streets, malls and houses become colorful, Christmas carols are Christmas and let my family go hungry.” For these seafarers, heard everywhere. Almost all Filipino seafarers I meet on board the luxury and spirit of Christmas is contrasted specifically to look forward to be with their families and loved ones during hunger and family survival, although it would still be true that Christmas. One of them said that he accepted a three-month they generally relate Christmas to a certain level of material contract starting the mid-week of September so he could be abundance. home for Christmas. “I did not care so much about the cost of the training in exchange of a three-month contract. After all, I have gathered the impression that Filipino seafarers give what is any amount of money? Money comes and goes. What different meanings to Christmas. But what should be the real matters is for me to be with my family in the celebration of the reason to celebrate Christmas? Christmas started when Jesus happiest moment of the year.” was born. The first day of Christmas was when Jesus started life by sharing with the house of the herd. Mary and Joseph For most seafarers, Christmas is the best time to be home were from a lowly economic and social class. At the time Jesus because it is the happiest moment for the family members to be was born, Mary and Joseph had no money. They could not together. One AB, or “able-body”, accounted that he spends afford a comfortable lodging, not even a crib for their newborn. only about two months every year with his family, hence he The young couple had to lay Jesus in a manger. On the would rather spend it the happiest way he could. “I wish I birthday of Jesus, the surrounding mood in the vicinity was not could be home for Christmas,” he aspired. I also recalled how a at all festive. In fact, the Christmas family shared the company seafarer’s wife recounted an abhorrent experience when her of no more than the shepherds with their sheep. Shepherds, the husband left home at an early hour on the 24th of December to poorest members of society then, were the first to come and start a new contract on board. “The manning agency has made visit Christ in the stable. Nonetheless, for the young family of a very cruel decision on my family...” she lamented. Mary, Joseph and Jesus, it was undoubtedly Christmas! Indeed, this was the fulfillment of a prophesy that God will To many of the seafarers I have asked, Christmas means a time send his own son to liberate the oppressed and to forgive and of togetherness, a time of celebration, a time of festivity. It is a save every sinner who shall call upon Him. Soon, even kings time when everybody at home and in the community puts on worshipped Jesus, and the highest magistrates who opposed his the newest pair of shoes or sandals and wears the best dress. It coming feared him. Hence, while the three Magi traveled long is a time for the whole family to go to the church and pray and far to honor and pay homage to the newborn king, Herod together. It is a time when delicious and adequate food is ordered that all male first born of a Jew must be slaughtered. prepared on every table. It is a time when every family celebrates. It is a time for everyone to give and to receive. It is The story of Jesus’ birth gives us the reason to celebrate a time when everybody greets each one with the sweetest Christmas. It even gives us the reason why Christmas should be smiles. part of our schedules. In this sense, Christmas is understood both as an act and a hope. Christmas celebration is the I was going through my training in Safety of Life at Sea commemoration of the act of coming of the Savior to bring (SOLAS) sometime in October last year when I met a fellow justice to the oppressed, liberation to the poor and forgiveness Filipino seafarer who was so restless he wanted to finish the to sinners. Christmas is a moment of festivity and abundance for training as soon as possible. Everyday, I saw his wife and anyone who believes that he or she is being emancipated from children in his Nissan van fetching him to the training school oppression, poverty and sin. For those who witness tyranny, and back home. I had a chance to talk to him and I learned that deprivation and sinfulness, Christmas is a moment of humility, he just arrived for home vacation and was about to leave for repentance, forgiveness and sharing. Christmas is a promise of another nine-month contract onboard. “So you could not be hope for liberty to the enslaved, abundance to the deprived, home for Christmas?” I asked. He answered: “You know absolution to sinners, and reunion for those who have been cast Chaplain, if only I have money, then everyday is Christmas.” I away. To people who believe in the story of Christmas, was dumbfounded at his reply for some time. To this guy, wherever they are, everyday, every moment could be an Christmas is equivalent to having money. It made me wonder occasion for Christmas. if there were also other seafarers who would likely equate the values of Christmas with money or material abundance. Merry Christmas to all!

I have met many Filipino seafarers onboard who were not able to go home for Christmas. Many of them felt that staying Rey P. Eliseo, who hails from Davao, is a Sailing Chaplain, onboard was preferable, rather than being home for Christmas a vocation with the Apostleship of the Sea which he has but with nothing to give their family. Their reasoning is justified generously shared with Filipino seafarers for the past two years. by a different logic. One of them said: “I would rather be away Sail with Chaplain Rey in his forthcoming articles in Parola. Parola Joint Issue no.112 - September - December 2001 - Page 8 ISUMBONG MO KAY ATTORNEY ATTY. PETER B. PAYOYO

Terrorism at Sea: the case of Captain Walang Kaluluwa

Have you heard the story of the Flying Dutchman? It’s captain with a loud laugh, who now found himself suddenly one of the classic sea stories from Holland written centuries ago alone in his ship. by one Auguste Jal. The story, which is not more than two pages long, begins with the familiar “Once upon a time... “, but From that day forward, the Flying Dutchman has sailed the then remarkably does not end with the usual “... and they lived seas, plaguing poor mariners. He can change at will the happily ever after.” This is for good reason, as you will see. appearance of his God-forsaken ship and has collected a crew as cursed as himself, all the criminals, pirates and cowards of the The story is about a ship captain who, in the author’s words, sea. feared neither God nor his Saints. One day, as his ship approached the Cape of Good Hope, a violent storm threatened *** to pass. All knew that the ship faced a very great danger, so every one implored the captain to cease with the voyage and A seaman from Ilocos Norte. let’s call him Reynaldo, wrote turn back. The Captain, however, laughed off the fears of the to tell about his experiences with a captain who seems to be a crew and passengers and sang blasphemous songs as he drank disciple of the Flying Dutchman in our story above. Since his beer and smoked his pipe. When the storm hit the hapless Reynaldo boarded the ship, the German captain treated him ship, breaking its masts and washing away its sails, the captain with contempt and ignored his needs. Unang sampa ko pa lang, became even more contemptuous, spitting on the calamity. He alam kong mainit ang dugo ni apat sa akin. Reynaldo recounts refused to make for the shelter of a near-by bay, and ordered that at one time he suffered from a painful teeth and gum the leader of the protesting crew to be flung overboard. Amidst problem, but the captain persistently ignored his requests for the raging storm and panic, the captain felt gladness and pride. medical care. Reynaldo became weaker by the day and lost weight. His problem was solved only with the help of a more Then there was quiet all around. The clouds opened and a Form enlightened soul from the shipping company, who immediately alighted on the quarter deck of the ship. The Form, which is referred Reynaldo to a dentist when their ship was docked in believed to be the Almighty God Himself, addressed the captain Cyrpus. At another time, Reynaldo was asked by his captain to and said “Captain, you are very stubborn.” The captain, rather sign a statement saying that Reynaldo had an issue with the ship than bowing or kneeling before the Form as the others did, and the captain. Reynaldo refused to sign. Later, the captain answered back “And you are a rascal! Who wants a peaceful returned Reynaldo’s seaman’s book wherein on two pages was passage? I don’t. I’m asking nothing from you, so clear out of written in red ink “Trouble Maker”. Reynaldo is now back this unless you want your brains blown out!”. The Form gave home in the Philippines, unemployed, and seeks some advice on no reply. how to legally get back at his captain to teach him a lesson.

The furious captain snatched a pistol and fired at the Form. But To a Filipino seaman, having “trouble maker” written in his the bullet turned around and pierced the captain’s hand. He then seaman’s book is equivalent to being thrown overboard during a leaped to strike the Form in the face with his fist. But his arm storm in the middle of the ocean. And for a captain, there is no dropped as though it became paralyzed. In his wild anger, the better way to destroy the career or livelihood of an ordinary captain cursed and uttered every possible abusive word against seaman than through a nasty negative official recommendation. the Form. It can very well happen that a seaman encounters a captain who The Form said to the captain: “Henceforth, you are accursed, regards himself as a god (or who acts like the devil in his dealings condemned to sail on forever without rest or anchorage or port with his crew). This is the captain who, from the viewpoint of of any kind”. The captain just groaned and smiled, but the the crew, has no compassion or sense of humane values. His Form continued “It shall forever be your watch, and you will world is all about just getting things done and finishing the not be able to sleep even if you wish to, for as soon as you voyage, so that the next one can immediately be made. He does close your eyes a sword shall pierce your body. And since it is not believe in a loving God and, for him, there is no such thing your delight to torment sailors, you shall torment them. For as a soul. In life there are only inconveniences that need to be you shall be the evil spirit of the sea. You shall traverse all overcome. Like the Flying Dutchman, he knows that as long as latitudes without respite or repose, and your ship shall bring he is the boss, his will prevails over others. He does not know misfortune to all who sight it. And on the Day of Judgment, Satan shall claim you.” “Amen to that!” shouted back the cont’d next page

Parola Joint Issue no. 112 - September - December 2001 - Page 9 ISUMBONG MO, cont’d MISUARI, from page 1 anything else, because he does not care. Lina said the government was poised to has given terrorism the freedom of file rebellion charges against Misuari to movement and impunity from effect his immediate arrest. accountability that it has enjoyed,” the How does the seaman deal with this sort President told the high-level annual of captain? Justice undersecretary Jose Calida said meeting of the 189-nation UN General the charges would be filed in Sulu. “The Assembly. The Flying Dutchman story can perhaps government will not allow any renegade shed some light on an answer. First, a government official to rebel with The Armed Forces of the Philippines seaman should assure his own survival impunity. That’s the message we are (AFP) has been battling Abu Sayyaf and should not directly challenge the sending to Governor Misuari.” Calida terrorists who style themselves as said. freedom fighters struggling for an authority of the abusive captain. When independent Islamic state in Mindanao, common sense, logic and gentle Misuari was elected ARMM governor in but engage in terrorist activities such as persuasion fail, silence becomes the 1996, shortly after the MNLF signed a mass kidnapping for ransom, killings and better part of valor. Confronting the peace treaty under which it settled for bombings. Captain can only make things worse and limited autonomy and discarded its a seaman risks being thrown overboard. dream of an Islamic state in the southern The Abu Sayyaf has also admitted links third of this largely Roman Catholic with the al-Qaeda terrorist group of Next, be patient and wait until higher archipelago. More than half the ARMM Saudi dissident Osama bin Laden. authority is able to address the captain. population still lives in poverty five Develop a strategy of informing the years later, though Misuari blames the President Arroyo said her government “boss of the boss” about the abuses, so central government for failing to deliver has been negotiating with the main that it is the bigger force who will have to on funds and political support. secessionist group, the Moro Islamic throw the captain overboard. Of course, Liberation Front. “We know the enemy a seafarer does not have to wait for God Presidential spokesman Rigoberto Tiglao and we know these are not people you confirmed that Malaysia had offered to talk to; these are people you fight,” Mrs. to mete divine justice on Captain Walang intercede, but the government would still Arroyo said. Some 7,000 battle-tested Kaluluwa. The mariner, just like what have to decide whether to accept such an soldiers have been relentlessly pursuing Reynaldo did, should expose the captain offer depending “on what help they the Abu Sayyaf bandits holding for his acts. PSAP will in turn inform really could extend”. Malaysia chairs the American missionary couple Martin and others, including the higher authorities, Committee of the Organization of Gracia Burnham and some Filipino about this captain and his whereabouts . Islamic Conference that is overseeing the hostages in the island province of implementation of the 1996 peace Basilan. The United States has indicated A Captain Walang Kaluluwa has no agreement. The OIC has withdrawn its it may provide equipment and training place in today’s maritime world. He is recognition of Misuari as leader of the for Philippine troops. not only an insult to human dignity in MNLF. general but is also a direct menace to the (PDI, 19, 20, 21, 23 November 2001) To eradicate terrorism, the President safety of shipping and a serious threat to said the international community should the marine environment. A Captain step up efforts to close the gap between the rich and the poor. “The best way to Walang Kaluluwa, with his callous Bush&GMA, from page 1 do so is for wealthy nations to buy more disregard of the so-called “human Philippines. exports from developing countries,” element”, is really a poor manager who Mrs. Arroyo said. “Developed nations almost always presides over a A small number of US military advisers should also drop subsidies for domestic have been sent to Mindanao to help substandard ship. The international industries,” she added. Philippine forces deal with the Muslim maritime community has declared war on guerrillas. such people at sea, who are also “The global trading system cannot allow terrorists. Mrs. Arroyo is currently on a 10-day developed countries to subsidize heavily working visit to the US. She said the trip their agricultural exports while the Reynaldo may not immediately obtain marks the 50th year of the US- developing countries are without the justice for the specific abuses he suffered Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty. means to help their own farmers,” she under his erstwhile captain. But rest said. She warned that a global recession assured Reynaldo, we are one small step In the UNITED NATIONS - “will be felt most deeply by those least able to endure it.” She said economic closer to humane conditions on board, President Arroyo urged wealthy members of the United Nations (UN) to growth is one way to fight poverty, but and to safer ships and cleaner seas, eliminate poverty to deprive terrorists of societies have to adopt deliberate because of your story. a haven in poor countries. policies to ensure that the income levels of the poor rise faster than those of the Tama at nagsumbong ka, Rey, kay “It is this growing disparity between the rich. Attorney. ever fewer rich and ever more poor that (Phil Star, 18 &22 Nov 2001) Parola Joint Issue no.112 - September - December 2001 - Page 10 PHILIPPINE SEAFARERS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME, ROTTERDAM PORT CALL ISSN: 1389-9465 PSAP is at your service around the clock ..... Editorial Staff Josie Pulmano Just call: Nonoy Ty Peter Payoyo (In Amsterdam) Julian Crisostomo 06 249 469 26 (In Amsterdam) Nonoy Gayoso 06 261 985 90 Parola is published bi-monthly by the Philippine Seafarers Assistance (In Groningen) Louie Estanislao 06 543 706 10 Programme(PSAP). PSAP is a non- (In Rotterdam) Felix Pulmano 06 519 368 38 stock, non-profit foundation registered in the Chamber of Commerce no. (In Rotterdam) Nonoy Ty 06 551 554 01 S127664, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

PSAP was founded in 1981 in Rotterdam with the aim to support MALIGAYANG PASKO AT MANIGONG Filipino seafarers in their struggle for better working and living conditions. BAGONG TAON PSAP's Objectives SA INYONG LAHAT To contribute to seafarers awareness about their workers and human rights. To provide support and services to seafarers To promote seafarers awareness on HIV/AIDS and other health related issues To enhance better cooperation among seafarers of various nationalities through better unders- tanding of each other culture. Addresses : PSAP Rotterdam Oostbroekweg 4, 3089 KL Rotterdam The Netherlands Tel. 010-2400930 Fax. 010-2400932 E-mail. [email protected]

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Parola Joint Issue no.112 - September - December 2001 - Page 12