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Philippine Independence Day Issue

Editor’s Notes: ………………………… “Happy Independence Day, !” ……………………. Eddie Zamora

Featured Items: 1. Philippine Independence Day, A Brief History ……………………………………………………………………….. The Editor 2. I Am Proud To Be A Filipino ……………………………………………………………………….. by Nelson Lagos Ornopia, Sr. 3. Presidents Of The Philippines ……………………………………………………………..………………………………. Group Effort 4. The Philippine Flag and Its Symbols ……………………………………………………………………………………. The Internet 5. The Philippine National Anthem ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

SULADS Corner: …………………………..………………… “Sulads Is Like A Rose” ………………… by Crisophel Abayan. NEMM Patch of Weeds: …………………………………………………………………………….……………………………..………….. Jesse Colegado LIFE of a Missionary: ………………… “President of SDA Church Visits ‘Land Eternal’”………..………. Romulo M. Halasan

CLOSING: Announcements |From The Mail Bag| Prayer Requests | Acknowledgements Meet The Editors |Closing Thoughts | Miscellaneous

Happy Independence Day, Philippines!

very June 12 the Philippines celebrates its Independence Day. Having lived in America some 30 E years now I am familiar with how people celebrate Independence here—they have parades, barbecues and in the evening fireworks. When we left the Philippines years ago fireworks were banned in the country. I don’t know how it is today. It would be wonderful if celebrated Independence Day similar to or better than the usual parades, picnics, barbecues and some fireworks.

When I was a kid growing up, Independence Day was observed on July 4th, the day when the United States granted the country independence from American rule. The American flag was finally lowered from government building flagpoles and the Philippine flag was hoisted in its stead. From that day until one day in 1962 the country celebrated Independence Day on the same day the United States celebrated its own Independence Day. But on May 12, 1962 then President issued Presidential Proclamation No. 28 declaring June 12 as a special public holiday to commemorate Gen. ’s declaration of Philippine Independence from Spanish rule on June 12, 1898.

here were several firsts that took place on that day. The Filipino flag, which was made by Marcela Agoncillo, Lorenza Agoncillo and Delfina Herboza in Hong Kong was unfurled for T the first time. The Marcha Filipina composed by Julian Felipe which today has been renamed was played by the San Francisco de Malabon marching band (I used to think the of that anthem was Bayang Magiliw).

Some individuals pointed out that Spain did not recognize Aguinaldo’s declaration because on May 1, 1898 Commodore of the United States Navy defeated the Spanish Armada at the Battle of Bay, thus ending the Spanish-American War. Spain ceded the control of the islands to the Americans. America did not recognize Aguinaldo’s declaration of independence either because they now had taken control of the government. That is the reason why some dissenters spoke against the change of the date of Philippine Independence because in reality the country was still under the rule of a foreign country, the United States of America. Some patriotic Filipinos even started a rebellion against the Americans but they were

defeated. It is almost like Yoyoy Villame’s verses which said bolos and spears were no match with guns and cannons.

Some even pointed out that Andres Bonifacio, the leader of the secret revolutionary society , also declared independence from Spain on April 12, 1895. He and his men wrote on the walls of their cave hideout Viva la Independencia Filipina! (Long Live Philippine Independence!) Bonifacio then started the which ended in December 1897 when Spain agreed to a truce with the Katipuneros with a stipulation that rebel leaders, including Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, be exiled to Hong Kong.

Even today some people still don’t approve of the change of the date for the observance of Philippine Independence from July 4 to June 12. For us Christians, the real Independence Day we should be looking forward to should be the day when we could really be free from sin and the author of sin, the devil himself. “For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. Romans 8:20, 21 (NIV).

Let us celebrate the Philippine Independence Day on June 12, the date that the government has declared it to be observed, but let us look forward to that greatest Independence Day when we will have freedom from sin and everything that sin has brought to this earth.

Eddie Zamora Redlands, California

Philippine Independence Day, A Brief History

unday, June 12, 2016 the Philippines will celebrate Independence Day. June 12, 1898, was the day when Emilio Aguinaldo unfurled the Philippine flag for the first time, the S Philippine National Anthem was played for the first time by the San Francisco de Malabon marching band. The declaration independence from Spanish rule was read by the author of the 21-page document, Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista.

The 5-peso bill shows the image of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo on the front, and a depiction of the celebration when the declaration of Independence was made at Aguinaldo’s home, appears on the reverse side.

Before this event though, another person and national hero, Andres Bonifacio, the leader of the revolutionaries called Katipuneros also declared independence from Spanish rule as he drafted more members to his organization. He wrote on the walls of the cave which was his hideout “Viva la independencia Filipina” which was the goal of his secret society. He initiated the Cry of Pugad Lawin (Hawk’s Nest) which was the start of the Philippine Revolution. It ended in December 1897 at the Pact of Biak-na-Bato where the Spanish government agreed to end the war with the revolutionaries if leaders, including Gen. Aguinaldo would be exiled to Hong Kong.

An earlier 5-peso bill has Andres Bonifacio’s picture on the front and the Katipuneros’ initiation ceremony appears on the reverse side.

The Spanish government did not recognize Aguinaldo’s declaration of independence. Commodore George Dewey of the U.S. Navy sailed into Manila Bay on May 1, 1898 and defeated the Spaniards thus ending the Spanish-American War. The Spanish government ceded the Philippine Islands to American rule. Dewey brought back Gen. Aguinaldo from Hong Kong and he brought his countrymen together to make that June 12, 1898 Declaration. Commodore Dewey did not recognize Aguinaldo’s declaration of independence either because the Americans ruled the Philippines until 1946.

Some important events did take place on June 12, 1898 aside from the declaration of Independence. The first Filipino flag, made in Hong Kong by Marcela Agoncillo, Lorenza Agoncillo and Delfina Herboza was unfurled. The tune Marcha Filipina Magdalo composed by Julian Felipe was played publicly for the first time by the San Francisco de Malabon marching band. This became the Philippine National Anthem, “Lupang Hinirang.”

The United States governed the Philippines until July 4, 1946 when they finally turned over the reins of the country to Filipino officials. Before this Independence Day from the United States, Japan did occupy the Philippines and it formed a puppet government with Jose P. Laurel as president. The person recognized by the United States as president of the Philippine Commonwealth at this time was Manuel L. Quezon. American soldiers, fighting side by side with Filipino soldiers (the Filipinos were considered members of the USAFFE--United States Armed Forces in the Far East) under Gen. Douglas MacArthur fought hard to defeat the Japanese.

This is a very brief history of how the Philippine Independence Day came about, and why people have varying reasons on when it should be observed.

The Internet

(p.s. The United States offered the Filipinos the chance to gain statehood like Hawaii but the Filipino leaders preferred to have an independent country.)

I Am Proud To Be A Filipino Nelson Lagos Ornopia, Sr. (The views expressed in this article are those of the writer, not the CyberFlashes)

y given , Nelson, sounds American or of western origin, probably because my parents admired Nelson Eddy, a popular American singer and actor. But my MOrnopia is a well-known in the town of Tabogon, Northern , Philippines. In fact as appearing in Facebook the Ornopia Clan Worldwide (OCW) cofounded by Ronald Ornopia and Abby Pelaez Ornopia (whose main office is in Cebu City) boasts, as of today, 2,304 members!

Among the many reasons why I am proud to be a Filipino is because of the rich heritage we have as a people, handed down to us by our ancestors starting from the great Cebu Chieftain , who fought and killed Ferdinand Magellan, the person credited with discovering the Philippines, down to our great hero Dr. Jose Rizal, and the Katipuneros who resisted the Spanish colonizers leading to our Independence as a nation. Of course we cannot forget our valiant Filipino soldiers who fought in the battlefields of Bataan and Corregidor against the Japanese invaders!

However there are times when I feel ashamed as a Filipino when I hear of negative reports about our people especially in the government, involved in rampant graft and corruption, cheating and vote-buying, even killings during election time! Abuses are rampant in government agencies such as the Bureau of Customs, BIR, Immigration, LTO, etc. Their actions place a black mark on our country as perceived by people from other nations.

But despite these negative pictures, our country exhibits many positive and bright images which still makes me proud. Besides our rich heritage, the Philippines which has been called “The Pearl of the Orient” in our National Anthem has many historical places and beautiful tourist spots which have attracted visitors from all over the world. The volcano with the almost perfect cone—Mt. Mayon, and one of the deepest part of the ocean in the world—the Philippine Deep are both found in our beloved country!

I have faith in the resiliency of the Filipino people and I believe our country can be great again. Because of this I am Proud to be a Filipino. In fact even if I am residing in the United States and have an American passport, I still pledge allegiance to our country by becoming a dual citizen!

Presidents Of The Philippines

1. President: Emilio Aguinaldo 2. President: Manuel L. Quezon 3. President: Jose P. Laurel Vice President: Mariano Trias Vice President: Sergio Osmeña, Sr Vice President: None. Japanese Occ Term: Jan 23, 1899 - Mar23, 1901 Term: Nov 15, 1935 – Aug 1, 1944 Term: Oct 14, 1943 – Aug 17, 1945 Trivia: General of the Revolution. Trivia: During his inauguration wore Trivia: He was an avid violinist Labeled as an insurgent during the an Officer of the French Legion star Philippine-American War. & a Sash and Star of Spain

4. President: Sergio Osmeña, Sr 5. President: 6. President: Vice President: None. Vice President: Elpidio Quirino Vice President: Term: Aug 1, 1944 – May 28, 1946 Term: May 28, 1946 – Apr 15, 1948 Term: Apr 17, 1948 – Dec 30, 1953 Trivia: President of the Philippines in Trivia: Philippine Constitution was Trivia: Aug 7, 1950 decided to Exile. Was accompanied by Gen. written & signed during his term. deploy Filipino combat troops to the Douglas McArthur … Korean War. ..

7. President: 8. President: Carlos P. Garcia 9. President Diosdado Macapagal Vice President: Carlos P. Garcia Vice Pres: Diosdado Macapagal Vice President: Term: Dec 30, 1953 – Mar 17, 1957 Term: Mar 18, 1957 – Dec 30, 1961 Term: Dec 30, 1961 – Dec 30, 1965 Trivia: Guerilla fighter. Perished in a Trivia: a teacher, poet, orator, Trivia: liberalized foreign exchange plane crash along with 24 others in lawyer and a guerrilla leader and import controls. the middle of his term.

10. President: 11. President: 12. President: Fidel Ramos Vice President: Arturo Tolentino Vice President: Vice President: Term: Dec 30, 1965 – Feb 25, 1986 Term: Feb 25, 2986 – Jun 30, 1992 Term: Jun 30, 1992 – Jun 30, 1998 Trivia: 20 years reign Trivia: 1st female president of the Trivia: Only Filipino to receive the Philippines British of Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George by Queen Elizabeth II

13. President: Joseph Estrada 14. President: Gloria Arroyo 15. President: Benigno Aquino III Vice President: Gloria M. Arroyo Vice President: Teofisto Guingona Vice President: Jr then Term: Jun 30, 1998 – Jan 20, 2001 Term: Jan 20, 2001 –Jun 30, 2010 Term: Jun 30, 2010 – Jun 30, 2016 Trivia: an actor Trivia: daughter of the 9th President Trivia: 4th generation politician of the Philippines

16. President: Vice President: Term: Trivia:

The Philippine Flag and Its Symbols From the internet

he Philippine flag evolves in different designs as the time went on. Since in the Spanish era, some Filipino secret societies already use flags during their revolution. Their flags are usually a red T rectangular shape with symbols of a sun in it. In 1897, another flag was born in the design concept of Emilio Aguinaldo. This is now the very basis of the design of the present Philippine National Flag as proclaimed in 1998.

The official Philippine Flag is rectangular in form with an aspect ratio of 1:2, meaning the length of the flag is twice longer than its width. It has a horizontal band of two colours of equal size, having on top is the royal blue and red at the bottom. The left end (viewer’s left) of the flag has a white equilateral triangle (3- sides equal to the width of the flag) which inside has symbols of 3-stars at each corner and a sun having 8-rays is in the center of the triangle.

The Flag Symbols and Meaning

The blue colour of the Philippine flag is the symbol for peace, truth, and justice. The red is the symbol for patriotism and valour. The white triangle is the symbol for equality and fraternity. It also symbolizes the Katipunan, the secret Filipino society which stands against the Spanish rule. The three golden stars in the corners of the triangle, represent the three major group of islands in the Philippines, namely the , Visayas and Mindanao. The golden sun at the center of the triangle is the symbol for unity, freedom, people's democracy, and sovereignty. The sun has eight rays around it. Each ray represents one of the first eight provinces that started the 1896 Philippine revolution against Spanish colony. These provinces are Manila, , , , , , and

Placing the Flag

The Philippine National Flag has its specific orientation and placing it otherwise will create a different meaning. The orientation explained here is in reference from the observer’s view. In horizontal position the blue stripe should be over the red and the white triangle to the left end of the flag. In vertical position, the blue stripe should be at the left and the red to the right while the white triangle must be on top. These are the normal orientations of the flag in either horizontal or vertical position during peace time. However, during the state of war, the flag orientation will change having the red stripe to be positioned above the blue stripe. The white triangle however, will always stay the same on its normal orientation

Philippine National Anthem

Official Commonwealth-Era Official Filipino Version Original Spanish Version English Version Lupang Hinirang Filipinas (1899) [8][9] The Philippine Hymn (1938)[16] (1958 rev. 1960's)[3]

Bayang magiliw, Tierra adorada Land of the morning Perlas ng Silanganan Hija del sol de Oriente, Child of the sun returning Alab ng puso, Su fuego ardiente With fervor burning Sa Dibdib mo'y buhay. En ti latiendo está. Thee do our souls adore.

Lupang Hinirang, ¡Tierra de amores! Land dear and holy, Duyan ka ng magiting, Del heroísmo cuna, Cradle of noble heroes, Sa manlulupig, Los invasores Ne’er shall invaders Di ka pasisiil. No te hollarán jamás. Trample thy sacred shores.

Sa dagat at bundok, En tu azul cielo, en tus auras, Ever within thy skies and through thy Sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw, En tus montes y en tu mar clouds May dilag ang tula, Esplende y late el poema And o'er thy hills and sea At awit sa paglayang minamahal. De tu amada libertad. Do we behold the radiance, feel the throb

Of glorious liberty Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y Tu pabellón, que en las lides Tagumpay na nagniningning, La victoria iluminó, Thy banner dear to all our hearts Ang bituin at araw niya, No verá nunca apagados Its sun and stars alight, Kailan pa ma'y di magdidilim, Sus estrellas ni su sol. Oh, never shall its shining fields

Be dimmed by tyrants might! Lupa ng araw ng luwalhati't Tierra de dichas, del sol y pagsinta, amores, Beautiful land of love, o land of light, Buhay ay langit sa piling mo, En tu regazo dulce es vivir. In thine embrace 'tis rapture to lie Aming ligaya na pag may mang- Es una gloria para tus hijos, But it is glory ever, when thou art wronged aapi, Cuando te ofenden, por ti morir. For us, thy sons to suffer and die Ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo.

From Wikipedia

SULADS’ Corner: “Sulads Is Like A Rose” By Crisophel Abayan. Northeastern Mindanao Mission

ust last month we visited Barangay Upper Calabuan which is also located in Esperanza, J Agusan del Sur, the neighbor barangay of Guibonon, where we are serving (Sagabalan and Malinawon). Sir Dawis (NEMM SULADS Coordinator) instructed me to visit this village and discuss with the people the SULADS program because they have been requesting for SULADS for almost three years. My and I planned to spend a couple of days and one Sabbath day with the villagers in Upper Calabuan. This is a one day hike from the villages where we are serving. But we chose another route going there. When we arrived, some people easily recognised us even though we’re still far from the village. They were so amazed. The happy faces and warm hugs from the female adults welcomed me, and of course they welcomed my husband because some of them are his relatives.

“We really need your help, please send us SULADS teachers here in our village” a woman spoke as she ran towards me. She was almost in tears while saying those words. Then she hugged me. They didn’t know what our purpose there was, but that was the very first statement she uttered. It seemed that they really knew why we came.

The other woman said, “At last SULADS have come to help us.”

So I answered them to relieve their anxiety. “We came here to hold a meeting to explain the SULADS program, so that you will know ahead of time what things are to be done.” I meant before the next school year started, so that everything will be in order. During the Sabbath day, they requested us to give lectures, experiences, and messages throughout the day. They are very hungry for the new messages from visitors or other people like us. My husband and I granted their request while our son shared the talent God gave to him--music. He gave them messages through songs.

I always bring my hard copy of the Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle program, so I shared with them the topics entitled “My Love Journey” and “Forgiveness”. So that they could understand well, my husband used their own Higaonon dialect during his sermon. The attendance starting with the Sabbath School program until A.Y. program remained the same. It was almost dark when we finished our Sabbath services. Most of the audience were backsliders. Only two have remained faithful.

The following day, the villagers gathered together so they could hear what the SULADS program really was. We prayed and asked the Lord’s guidance and in just a short time I was able to explain everything in words they could understand. Then I asked them why they wanted SULADS. One of the old folks answered, “It’s not only that we want SULADS, we really need SULADS.” Upon hearing his answer, I was speechless. It seemed like he was just my child humbly asking for something from me. There were 25 households with 33 children who are currently enrolled in a far distant public school. Proper education is not provided in these public schools. These people crave for the kind of education that the SULADS can give. Not only because of the children do they need SULADS, most of all they need SULADS to guide them and help them to the path of eternal life.

“True forgiveness is like a rose: even if you trample it, the aroma will still come out.” This is one of the topics I presented. And for them the work of SULADS is like a rose that even if someone trampled it, the sweet smell will still come out. Why are they asking for SULADS? Because they have seen the beautiful program HEALS (Health, Education, Agriculture, Livelihood Services) to the less fortunate people of God in the jungles and mountains. The SULADS cares for people in every aspect of life, especially for their daily needs. To win them to the feet of Jesus means sacrifice, but it is worth it.

The only thing that blocks the request of the villagers in Upper Calabuan is the political misunderstanding between the current barangay captain and the previous one. During my conversation with the barangay captain, as I explained the SULADS program, he told me and my husband that it is ok to have SULADS in Upper Calabuan as long as there is a proper protocol and papers or documents. When I heard it, I was overwhelmed. I almost cried as I thanked the Lord for the positive response given by the barangay captain. May the good spirit of this barangay captain would remain unchanged.

The Calabuan village is situated on the top of the mountain. It looks like a plateau. When looking around one could only see the sky. It takes five to six hours hike to reach this place from the last point where motor vehicles can reach.

The following day, we went down. We walked very carefully because the trail is very muddy and slippery, especially since the trail is always downhill. It was almost midday, but the trail was still wet and very dangerous. We hiked the long risky trail with bare feet for better traction. My husband had to ask somebody to help him carry our son.

Along the trail, we met Talan, with his two younger sons. I took his hand and blessed him and so did my husband and son. Only a week earlier he came out from the hospital. According to him, when he was still in the hospital he asked the Lord many times for His healing hand and miracles. He had almost forgotten the Lord but when he got sick and was hospitalized, he remembered Him. “Ma’am,” he said, “I am very happy that you visited us. The messages that you

shared is like a spear. I am the man who doesn’t know what forgiveness is. I am the man who cannot forgive and forget. I am very fortunate that I personally heard those messages and I considered that I am so lucky from that very day. I’ve realized that I need to have that kind of spirit. We really need those very inspiring words every now and then, because we forget especially if nobody guides us. We don’t know how to read and write. Each of us is striving hard to learn but it is so difficult, you know, in our situation.”

I was silent until he finished. My husband answered him using their own dialect. He showed appreciation to the Datu because this man is one of the tribal leaders there. My husband inspired him more so that the change towards good would continue, especially because he is respected in his village as Datu.

“Engko (uncle),” I said, “don’t worry. God always hears and answers sincere prayers and petitions. Just believe and be faithful.” When I heard him, I felt more passion and love grow inside my heart. I cannot wait to see him serving with the SULADS. I know God’s timing is always perfect. I am praying that somehow we could build a new church building in this village. This is the new prospective SULADS mission school to be opened in God’s time.

© SULADS International, Inc. If you would like to support this mission program dedicated to taking the Gospel to the people of Mindanao, please write a check to Gospel Outreach. Mark it for the SULADS and send it to: Gospel Outreach P.O. Box 8 College Place, WA 99324 You may also donate to the SULADS using your credit card by logging on to Gospel Outreach's donation site (http://www.goaim.org/) and follow the directions. Again, mark it for SULADS. If you would prefer, you may write your check to the General Conference of SDA and mark the donation for SULADS and send it to: General Conference of SDA Donations 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904 Thank you for your support of this very important project.

Shared by Jesse Colegado

Asking Someone Out

cute and funny way to ask someone out….

A Boy: I’m invisible!

Girl: Owwwzzz? Really?

Boy: Can you see me?

Girl: Of course, yes!

Boy: 7 pm tonight?

(From Bohol-Philippines.com)

Yachts

randson: Grandpa, look at those boats... Grandpa: Nice, aren't they, son? They are called yachts. G Grandson: How do you spell it? Grandpa: You’re right, son; they’re boats.

(From Bohol-Philippines.com)

Carry Your Cross

husband, coming home from a confession, suddenly lifted his wife and carried her.

A Wife: Why, did the priest tell you to be romantic like this?

Husband: No, he told me to carry my cross!

(From Bohol-Philippines.com)

Make Filipinos Happy

he Philippine presidents were flying to Baguio.

T GMA: What if I throw a check for a million pesos out the window to make at least one Filipino happy?

CORY: But my dear, why don't you throw 2 checks for half a million each and thus make two Filipinos happy?

RAMOS: Why not throw four checks for a quarter of a million each and make four Filipinos happy?

And on it went until finally, ERAP blurts out:

"But, Madam President, why not simply throw yourself out of the window and make all the Filipinos happy?"

(From funnypinoy-jokes)

Glue Stick

ather: Hey Son! Why is your mother sitting so silent today?

FSon: Nothing Dad. She asked for lipstick and I heard "glue stick".

Father: God bless you, Son!

(From funnypinoy-jokes)

Update FB Status

ust before being hanged, the judge asked the prisoner: "Any last wish?"

JThe prisoner replied, "Yes. I want to update my Facebook status as 'DEAD'."

(From funnypinoy-jokes)

Dirty Things

ife: Honey, I want you to whisper dirty things in my ear!

W Husband: Kitchen, living room, dining room, bathroom, patio....

(From funnypinoy-jokes)

Heroes

eporter: Any similarities between Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, and Ninoy Aquino?

R Erap: All I know is that they all died during a holiday! That’s all I know.

(From funnypinoy-jokes)

Beauty Pageant

udge: What if you find out that your boyfriend has AIDS, what will you do and why?

JContestant: I’ll still love him... (everybody claps) "coz, AIDS doesn't matter! Thank you."

(From Bohol-Philippines.com)

Mottos

ir Force: "No guts, No glory!"

A Marines: "No retreat, No surrender!"

Army: "No pain, No gain!"

Not to be outdone, the Security Guards have this motto: "No ID, No entry!"

(From ipinoyworld.com)

A Full Cup of Coffee

n old Caviteno was a steward to a captain who wanted his coffee on the bridge on board a submarine every thirty minutes. That was his only job. On the way to the Abridge there were several ladders and stairways, sometimes too steep to pass through and made it impossible to deliver a full cup of coffee. Somehow this steward managed to get a full cup of coffee to his boss, every time.

His secret? To start with, he brewed a strong cup of coffee. Then he filled the captain's mug three fourths full to avoid spillage on his way up. The captain liked his coffee black, you know, and demanded a full cup every time. So on his way up to the bridge, the steward stopped by the sink and filled his mouth with water. Before entering the bridge, he spewed the water from his mouth to top off the captain's mug thus showing a full cup of coffee.

The captain did enjoy the tasty, black coffee. This is a tale the Cavitenos are very proud of, believe it or not!

Ed Babao

You Are a Filipino If,,,.

1. You point with your lips. 2. You nod upwards to greet someone 3. You collect items from hotels or restaurants "for souvenir". 4. You smile for no reason. 5. You flirt by having a foolish grin in your face while raising your eyebrows repeatedly. 6. You go to a department store and try to haggle the prices. 7. You add an unwarranted "H" to your name, e.g. "Jhun," "Bhoy," "Rhon.” 8. You put your hands together in front of you as if to make a path and stoop and say "excuse, excuse" when you pass between people or in front of the TV. 9. You like everything imported or "state-side." 10. You check the labels on clothes to see where it was made before buying. 11. You always offer food to all your visitors. 12. You say "comfort room" or CR instead of "bathroom" or “restroom.” 13. You say "for take out" instead of "to go." 14. You ask for "Colgate" instead of "toothpaste." 15. You ask for a "pentel-pen" or a "ball-pen" instead of just "pen." 16. You call laundry detergents “Tide.” 17. You order a McDonald's instead of "hamburger"(pronounced ham-boor-jer). 18. You say "Ha?" instead of "What?" 19. You say "Hoy" or “Pssst” to get someone's attention. 20. You turn around when someone yells "Hoy!" or hear “Psst!” 21. Your sneeze sounds like "ahh-ching" instead of "ahh-choo." 22. You prefer to make for phrases such as "OA" for overacting, or "TNT" for, well, you know. 23. You say "aircon" instead of "a/c" or air conditioner. 24. You say "brownout" instead of "blackout." 25. You have a portrait of "The Last Supper" hanging in your dining room. 26. You own a Karaoke System. 27. You own a piano that no one ever plays. 28. You refer to your VCR as a "beytamax". 29. You have a giant wooden fork and spoon hanging somewhere in the dining room. 31. You hang a rosary on your car's rear view mirror. 32. You order a "soft drink" instead of a "soda." 33. You refer to all other forms of monosodium glutamate as "Ajinomoto" or “Vetsin.” 34. This you'll agree with,100% ... "Goldilocks" means more to you than just a character in a fairy tale. 35. Your table cloth has a circular stain from soy sauce.

(From ipinoyworld.com)

President of the SDA Church Visits “Land Eternal”

reetings from Vanuatu!

G This week, let me share with you the President of the SDA Church, Pastor Ted Wilson’s, visit to Vanuatu. Vanuatu means “Land Eternal.” This beautiful country is unique in its scenic natural wonders and blend of cultures and heritage. This Y-shaped chain of islands is covered with green tropical forests, fertile soil and the shores’ idyllic sandy beaches are washed by the clean waters of the Pacific Ocean.

The island of Tanna is Vanuatu’s most popular adventure destination, mostly due to the fiery and always active volcano called Mount Yasur which is the most easily accessible volcano in the world. It is here that a ceremony called Nekowiar, a spectacular three-day gift-exchanging ceremony where participants attempt to outdo each other with lavish gifts, dancing with ornate make up. Vanuatu is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. Dances, ceremonies, artistic styles, status, systems of authority, animal and crop husbandry can vary from island to island and often from district to district.

On the Pentecost Island, the famous land-diving ceremony celebrates the yam harvest from April to June. Men and boys dive from wooden towers with vines tied to their ankles, hoping this would guarantee a good harvest during the following year.

Vanuatu’s coastline boasts spectacular white –sand beaches and its crystal clear waters provide world-class diving, snorkeling and game-fishing. One Sunday, we went fishing in near the beach and we caught many fish in less than one hour.

In Vanuatu’s interior, you will find everything from cascading waterfalls, wild horses and active volcanoes where from the crater rim you can gaze down on the boiling lava.

In Rah Island, a festival called ‘St. Andrew’s Festival’ is celebrated at the end of November wherein a kilometer long fishing net made from coconut leaves with more than 100 villagers march into the ocean to place the net, then at low tide gather the fish.

Inserting the long coconut frond net into the sea—St. Andrew’s Festival

Pastor Ted Wilson Visits Vanuatu The President of the SDA church visited Vanuatu a few weeks ago to help rebuild the SDA churches that were damaged by Cyclone Pam. Pastor Ted Wilson paid a courtesy visit on Friday, 29th April, to the President of Vanuatu, H.E. Baldwin Lonsdale and assured him that the Seventh-day Adventist Church will do everything it can to continue to help build up the country and be a blessing to society.

A GC delegation and Mission officials help construct the church which was destroyed by Cyclone Pam. Students from Ekipe School and community members, including their traditional Chief and warriors, were all at the building site to welcome the delegates with garlands and the presentation of traditional gifts. They were overwhelmed with the fact that all leaders from the local Mission right up to the GC world headquarters were present to help with reconstruction.

TMI or Total Membership Involvement was demonstrated by the Efate District Adventist Men who together with the Adventist Women helped build a house to replace the deteriorating home belonging to Mr. Miso Kalvataku, a Chief of Mele Village. The team took 10 weeks to complete the house, while members of Portoroki Church furnished the house, including the provision of a TV flat screen that will enable Miso and his family to watch programs through the Vanuatu Hope Channel.

Pastor Wilson meets with government officials

Speaking to the brethren at Tanna. It was raining.

The house was dedicated to the Lord by Pastor Ted Wilson in the presence of Church officers and members, as well as Mele villagers. The project represented powerful evangelism by the use of building materials and labor. An emotional Miso could hardly speak as it took him less than one minute to simply say “Thank you”. This is the biggest village in this district where there are no Adventists. Now, the village chief, as well as some villagers, wants to become an Adventists. Pastor Ted also visited Tanna Province.

The rain failed to stop hundreds of faithful Church members, including the elderly and even mothers cradling their babies, from meeting Pastor Ted Wilson and his delegation at Lamanu Stadium, Lenakal, Tanna. A local brass band put up a great performance as it led the procession after a safe arrival at Whitegrass Airport. Colorful umbrellas dotted the field and children.

Also Pastor Ted visited the beautiful academy in Aore. “I must admit this is one of the most beautiful secondary schools I have ever visited,” Pastor Ted Wilson said to Aore Adventist Academy students. His delegation, welcomed by warriors/dancers at the wharf after being ferried by a Police Patrol boat from Luganville to Aore Island. He witnessed coconut climbing and husking before enjoying fresh coconut drinks.

Speaking to the students at Aore Adventist Academy. Coconuts presented as gifts by brethren.

A small plane being readied to take Pastor Wilson to Mota. Port Vila, the capital city.

The work of the Seventh-day Adventist church is rapidly expanding in this part of the world. People who were cannibals before have become Adventists and are helping in the spreading of the gospel message. Please continue to pray for the work of the Adventists in Vanuatu.

Romy Halasan Port Vila, Vanuatu

Romulo “Romy” M. Halasan, (BSBA’86) writes today from Montego Bay, Jamaica. He is a member of the Seventh-day Adventist world church leadership, a father of 3 young adult sons, a husband and a person who gets to travel to different corners of the world as a Regional Director for the General Conference Auditing Services. His travels provide him with a unique perspective of how the work is going in these areas and we are so blessed to be able to experience these travels second-hand through him. If you have any comments or questions, feel free to reach him at [email protected]

At Northern California this week… Do you know who these alumni members are?

Condolences

The CyberFlashes editors together with MVC Alumni and friends express our heartfelt condolences to the Mostrales family on the passing of their mother, Larina Nomus Mostrales. She was 89 years old.

Funeral Schedule: Viewing: June 15, 2016, Wednesday, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Glen Abbey Mortuary Chapel, 3838 Bonita Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91902 Funeral Service: June 16, 2016, Thursday, 9:00 AM San Diego FilAm SDA Church, 3602 Bonita Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91910 Interment: Glen Abbey Memorial Park, 3838 Bonita Rd., Chula Vista CA 91902 (Note: the San Diego SDA Church is next door to the Glen Abbey Cemetery)

Reception to follow at the VIP Oriental Buffet Restaurant 542 Broadway, Chula Vista, California

Alumni Calendar

When What Where Point of Contact July 29-31, Illinois Chapter Weekend Getaway Wisconsin Dells. River Nora Munda, Leslie 2016 (sign up! 8 families already signed up!) cruise, hiking, swimming… Rosendo, Vicki Ybanez

July 30, 2016 Heritage Singers 45th Anniversary @7PM Reunion Concert (Advertised in their FB 4000 E. Ontario Center See Heritage Singers on site as the last reunion concert they will Pkwy Ontario, CA. Facebook. be having) Aug 4-7, 2016 MVCSN’s Zoarkes’91 Silver Anniversary Northern California Annaliza Wilensky & Reunion Alison Sabanal

Aug 19-21, All Filipinos of Southwestern Union Conf Lone Star Camp, Pastor Rolando Baysa 2016 FAMMANA Convention Athens, TX [email protected]

MVC-SN Golden Jubilee MVC Campus, Bukidnon Devaney M. Bayeta, president of MVCSN Anniversary Reunion alumni association date tbd Many classes are planning on coming (home base chapter)

Announcement from MVCiana: MVCiana is a budding museum of historical MVC items. Its MVC Yearbook collection is almost complete except for two: Orchid 1960 and Orchid 1999. If you have a copy and are willing to donate it to MVCiana, please contact MVCiana curator Kenji Madriaga. Thanks.

Prayer Request for Healing

Connie Asumbrado- Jonathan Navales, Roxie Pido, Maquio, Lola Ellen Sigue, Sammy Galarpe, his son & Demi Garduque, Oseas Zamora grandkids Elmar Bingcang, Pastor Rudy Bermudez, Galileo Villaflores, Pastor Salvador Israel

Prayer for the Bereaved Family

Larina Nomus Mostrales Alvin Romanes, Eng. Eugenio Porteza, Serge Batiller, Carmelita Arit-Correces, Jonathan Serenata. Guillermo Maglinte, Chita Penola-Flores, Rachel Sacala,

Meet The Editors

This week’s issue of Cyberflashes is coordinated by Eddie Zamora. Next week’s will be by Melodie Mae K. Inapan in collaboration with the other editors. Please direct all entries to her or to any of the editors.

NAME: EMAIL ADDRESS: Eddie Zamora ezamora594 at aol dot com Evelyn Porteza-Tabingo etabingo at gmail dot com Jessie Colegado Cyberflashes at gmail dot com Joy Caballero-Gadia watermankids at yahoo dot com Lily EscaraLare Lily_lare at yahoo dot com dot ph Melodie Mae Karaan-Inapan melodieinapan at yahoo dot com Raylene Rodrigo-Baumgart raylene.baumgart at gmail dot com

Acknowledgement

Special thanks to those who helped make this week’s issue of CyberFlashes: Nelson Ornopia Sr, Jessie Colegado, Romy Halasan, SULADS & Gospel Outreach and to all of those who contributed!

You Are Invited To Contribute Your Thoughts on the upcoming issues of CF

Topic Deadline Editor Fathers’ Day – tribute and stories 15-Jun Any Editor Work Education @ MVC – where & how? 20-Jun Joy Caballero-Gadia Anything on MVC 1-Jul Evelyn Porteza Tabingo Life's Journeys – alumni life experience story 10-Jul Raylene Rodrigo Baumgart Answered Prayers 20-Jul Lily Escara Lare

Closing Thoughts

Mi Ultimo Adios (My Last Farewell) Jose P. Rizal

Farewell, my adored Land, region of the sun caressed, Pearl of the Orient Sea, our Eden lost, With gladness I give you my Life, sad and repressed; And were it more brilliant, more fresh and at its best, I would still give it to you for your welfare at most......

My idolized Country, for whom I most gravely pine, Dear Philippines, to my last goodbye, oh, harken There I leave all: my parents, loves of mine, I'll go where there are no slaves, tyrants or hangmen Where faith does not kill and where God alone does reign.

Farewell, parents, brothers, beloved by me, Friends of my childhood, in the home distressed; Give thanks that now I rest from the wearisome day; Farewell, sweet stranger, my friend, who brightened my way; Farewell, to all I love. To die is to rest.

Taken From the Internet (First stanza and last two stanzas)