JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2019 EASTERN SAMAR NEWS SERVICE VOL 7 NO 1 & 2 este “COMMUNICATING HOPE AND TRUST IN OUR TIME.” - POPE FRANCIS Provincial candidates sign integrity pledge

BORONGAN CITY—Candidates vying for different provincial positions led the signing of an integrity pledge. The candidates started with a unity walk around Borongan prior to the covenant signing held at the Provincial Police headquarters last January 13. The activity initiated by the PNP gathered stakeholders from the academe, civil society, COMELEC, DILG, Philippine Army and the church. Former PNP Provincial Director Sr Supt Felix Diloy said that the unity walk “aims to instill awareness on the upcoming elections on May 13, and that we are united in the efforts to ensure that it will be clean, honest, fair and peaceful”. Borongan City Mayor Maria Fe Abunda, Mayor Christopher Sheen Gonzales of Guiuan and San Policarpo Vice Mayor Conrado Nicart lll, all congressional hopefuls showed their solidarity with the other candidates. Alfedo Hobayan who is running against Acting Governor Marcelo Picardal and Rep. Ben Evardone was the lone gubernatorial candidate present. The scene outside the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Cathedral In Jolo, Sulu, after two bombs exploded while Sunday mass was in progress on January 27, 2019. In what the Catholic Atty Karen Cajipo, the Provincial Election church described as “an act of terrorism” and the “most heinous desecration”, the official number of casualties reported at press time is now 118 -- 23 dead and 95 wounded. (Photo Supervisor reminded the candidates to courtesy of AFP WESTERN MINDANAO COMMAND) always remember the pledge they signed. “Integrity is doing what is right, and pledge is an oath, a promise that we have to keep, because what you do will reflect on what kind of leaders you will be”, she said. PROV’L GOV’T FAILS TO The candidates pledged to “respect the sanctity of the electoral process, avoid any form of violence, force or threat that may impair the free exercise of the people’s right of suffrage. They also promised not to offer or give PASS 2019 BUDGET By Eden Cidro On January 23 some concerned budget will be answered of the 2018 supplemental budget, bribes or gifts to corrupt the integrity of our provincial government promptly. amounting to P122 Million. democratic process”. BORONGAN CITY—The employees initiated a dialogue “Like other employees, I also SP member Cabato said that Meanwhile, the Comelec urged everyone Provincial Government is with the governor and legislators want the budget approved, “there can only be a supplemental to be mindful of the gun ban and other operating on a reenacted of the province to clear the air especially that this is an election budget if there is an approved prohibited acts during the election period. budget after the Sangguniang on the budget especially as the year, and projects need to be regular budget”. Checkpoints are now regularly conducted. Panlalawigan failed to pass the implementation of their salary implemented on time,” Cabato “Since the SP has filed a case The unity walk and integrity pledge signing P1.420Billion proposed 2019 increase is dependent on its said. in court seeking to nullify the was also held in other municipalities. (Eden budget. approval. Under a reenacted budget, an 2018 budget, approving the Cidro/Este News) Acting Vice Governor Jonas Board Member Celestino LGU can only use the previous 2018 supplemental budget is Abuda said that the Annual Cabato said that they are now year’s allocation for personal tantamount to waiving our right Investment Plan (AIP) has not studying the AIP and will be services and operating expenses. to question the 2018 budget”. even been approved. The AIP “holding marathon sessions In an earlier interview, Vice Eight members of the identifies projects and programs to fast track and scrutinize the Governor Abuda said that one Sanggunian filed criminal and to be appropriated in the annual submitted plan”. cause of the delay, is the failure administrative complaints budget. They complained that some of of the SP to constitute a quorum against acting Governor Marcelo Abuda said that the AIP was the attachments to the AIP were on regular sessions, hence no Picardal, acting Vice Gov. Jonas submitted to the SP in September not submitted on time. sessions transpire. Abuda, SP Secretary Franklin of last year, together with the The officials committed to SP Secretary Franklin Robedizo Robedizo and DBM Regional PDC resolution approving it and hasten the deliberations. “We said that they only had one Director Annabelle Echavez other documents needed. commit to hold marathon session from October 16 until for falsifying Appropriation During their session on December hearings”, SP member Cabato December 31, 2018, but this was Ordinance 18-30 or the provincial 7, the SP decided to constitute said. refuted by the board members. government’s proposed budget themselves into a committee of a He also requested the Discussions on the AIP for 2018. whole to expedite the approval of department heads to be present resumed last January 7. During The board members allege that the plan, but that was to be their last during the budget hearings so the dialogue, the SP Members they did not approve the budget Missionaries on tryke session for 2018. that questions on their proposed also explained their disapproval ordinance. THE Oikos Sisters (formally called Oikos Ptochos Tou Theou or the Poor Household of God Mission) went to Barangay San Mateo in Borongan City last January 23, 2019 to distribute schools supplies and food to poor pupils. In some instances, the sisters would navigate to remote villages by either walking—as they did in one of the remote barrios of San Julian, which is reachable by an hour ascending walk— or riding on a rickety tryke. The Oikos Sisters are just a few but their work for the poor is a crowd. (Este News) VOL 7 NO 1 & 2 2 este JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 WORLD AND NATIONAL NEWS Don’t let Jolo bombing spoil peace process— archbishop The search for peace in Mindanao martial law in effect since 2017 should not be derailed by the deadly after Islamic State militants seized bombing of a Catholic cathedral in Marawi, considered the Muslim Sulu province, a church official said capital of the largely Catholic Monday. Philippines. Jesuit Archbishop Antonio The incident also came a week Ledesma of Cagayan de Oro said after Muslims voted for the creation the peace process must continue of the new autonomous region in to pursue the end of decades of Mindanao. rebellion in the country’s restive Sulu, on the other hand, voted south. against the ratification of the “We hope that the incident will Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL). not sidetrack us to lasting peace,” Amid condemnation of the Ledesma said in a press conference attack, church officials called for after the bishops’ plenary assembly sobriety and by “conquering evil in Manila. with good”. Two explosions rocked the Jolo “As believers we must go back cathedral on Sunday that claimed to our faith on how to respond to 20 lives and wounded more than a evil deed,” said Archbishop Romulo hundred others. Valles, president of the Philippine Archbishop Antonio Ledesma (right) leads Archbishop Romulo Valles and Bishop Pablo David in prayer before a press conference in Manila Jan. The attack came despite a bishops’ conference. (CBCPNews) 28. ROY LAGARDE Faithful urged: Be bearers of CBCP plans to invite Pope ‘faith news’, not fake news Francis for 2021 Jubilee

Puerto Princesa Bishop Socrates Mesiona suggests three new year’s resolutions for the faithful, including one on being a bearer of “faith news.” KATYA SANTOS

In a homily on the first day of Gospel of today’s reading. “Like the new year, the Solemnity of the shepherds in the Gospel, let Mary, Mother of God, Puerto us all be carrier of good news, Princesa Bishop Socrates not gossip. Faith news and not Mesiona reminded faithful to false news,” he stressed. be bearers of good news and “These days, there’s so much not fake news. negativity in this world, we During the Mass held at the need more good news to uplift Puerto Princesa Cathedral, the the spirit of our brothers and prelate proposed three possible sisters,” he added. new year’s resolutions. One of The Vicar Apostolic also urged these is to “try to be bearers of the Mass attendees to be more good news” starting 2019. prayerful and kinder as new Mesiona told the faithful to year’s resolutions this 2019. emulate the shepherds in the (Katya Santos / CBCPNews)

Pope Francis meets young people at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Jan. 18, 2015. ROY LAGARDE

The Catholic hierarchy plans refused to comment whether the its potential to inspire a society to invite Pope Francis to visit the pope will accept the invitation. worthy of the goodness, dignity Philippines for the fifth centenary “What is important is that and aspirations of the Filipino of the arrival of the Christianity in there should be an invitation and people,” he said. the archipelago, a church official program already ahead of 2021,” Bishop Arturo Bastes of said Tuesday. he said. Sorsogon, head of the CBCP’s Fr. Marvin Mejia, secretary From Sri Lanka, the leader of Commission on Mission, noted general of the Philippine bishops’ the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics that this will be the “first time” JOSHUA ALDWIN FISH conference, said that the matter travelled to the Philippines in that the local Church will invite the will be discussed when prelates January 2015 as part of his second pope for a visit to the Philippines. meet for their plenary assembly in Asian pilgrimage as pope. “When Pope Francis came to the DEALER Manila over the weekend. His trip included a visit to Philippines four years ago, it was “It will be finalized there,” Mejia the survivors of super typhoon he who volunteered to come in Sabang South, said. Yolanda in Leyte and reckoned the view of the big catastrophe caused For the past seven years, the largest papal event in history with by Yolanda,” he said. church has been laying out plans around 7 million attendees in his While it is “very a seldom” that Borongan City for the 2021 Jubilee to celebrate final Mass in Manila. a pope visits a particular country the 500th anniversary of the first In a speech in Malacañang, twice, the bishop said that they mass and the first baptism in the Pope Francis praised the Filipino are keeping their fingers crossed. Philippines. Catholics’ strong faith and “Pope Francis might In 2012, the CBCP embarked on reminded them of their mission still consider to accept the a “nine-year journey for the New to spread the Gospel, noting the invitation to celebrate with Evangelization” with a different upcoming great jubilee. us the commemoration of the theme each year to prepare the “It is my hope that this introduction of Christianity to faithful for the celebration. important anniversary will point our country,” said Bastes. (Roy The CBCP official, however, to its continuing fruitfulness and Lagarde / CBCPNews) VOL 7 NO 1 & 2 NEWS FEATURE JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 este 3 Bill Penalizing ‘Overloaded’ PUVs Filed In order to protect the safety of have become a common occurrence the riding public, a lawmaker has in provinces and cities, but these filed a bill seeking to increase the have gone largely unnoticed by penalty against overloaded public authorities,” she added. utility vehicles (PUV). Under the proposed Act, the Deputy Speaker and Bulacan Department of Transportation Rep. Linabelle Villarica filed (DOTr) is mandated to consider House Bill 8504, dubbed the Anti- the measured weight of a motor Overloading Act of 2018, which vehicle plus the maximum seeks to establish “pro-active” carrying capacity. measures of road traffic fatalities for the maintenance of peace and Tougher penalties order, and public safety. PUVs caught carrying In the bill’s explanatory note, passengers beyond the registered Villarica cited the Carranglan, carrying capacity will be penalized Nueva Ecija bus tragedy in April a fine in the amount of Php50,000 2018, which claimed the lives of and one-year suspension of the 33 people on board a Leomarick franchise and the license of the Trans minibus, which was carrying driver for the 1st offense. 77 persons when its passenger For the second offense, a fine capacity was only 45, that fell into in the amount of Php250,000 a ravine. and two years suspension will be Villarica said overloading has imposed, while the third offense been known to “cause vehicles to imposes a fine in the amount of be less stable, difficult to steer, and Php1,000,000 and revocation of take longer to stop.” the franchise and the license of She also cited the passenger van the driver. accident in Kalinga province in The Land Transportation Office September 2018, which plunged (LTO), in consultation with DOTr off a cliff after the brakes of the and the Land Transportation overloaded vehicle malfunctioned Franchising and Regulatory Board, and claimed the lives of 14 people. will formulate the implementing rules and regulations of the bill Common occurrence once enacted into law. (Joel (Photo courtesy of Luzon Times) “Overloaded jeepneys and buses Cristobal/Luzon Times) Army captures E. Samar employees hit reassignment Some employees of the Eastern Samar provincial government are NPA camp in crying foul after acting Gov. Marcelo Picardal allegedly reassigned them to other offices. Helen Cadalin, a project Samar development officer, said they were surprised by the recent order, Army troopers recently the site were 2 sets of power assigning them to different offices discovered an abandoned camp generators, two M16 magazines, in the province for reasons of of alleged New People’s Army one .45 cal. magazine, a exigency of service. (NPA) in the upstream village of command switch for IED, and She said that they will question Bay-ang in San Jorge, Samar. subversive documents. the Picardal’s orders before the Civil 8th Infantry Division Farnacio urged the rebels Service Commission, Office of the commanding general Raul to lay down their arms, live Ombudsman and the Commission Farnacio said the rebel hideout a normal and peaceful life on Elections (Comelec). was tracked last Jan. 14 with the with their families and avail Among those affected by the help of Bay-ang residents. the government’s Enhanced reassignments are 11 officials and “This captured enemy Comprehensive Local employees of the Oras District encampment is a big blow to Integration Program. Hospital in Oras town, including Helen Cadalin (third from right) and other doctors and employees affected by the reassign- the CNTs and on their plan to The island of Samar remains to their chief doctor. ment allegedly on orders of acting Gov. Marcelino Picardal during a recent press conference in conduct atrocities in the region,” be one of the rebels’ strongholds Dr. Yolanda Obon, Oras District Tacloban City. (Nestor Abrematea / Visayas Times) said Farnacio. in the country. Hospital chief, said that she has operations are greatly affected According to them, the transfer It was not known when In August 2018, the rebels been transferred to a hospital in as those transferred are mostly of employees also did not pass the communist insurgents raided a police station in Balangiga even if the facility still hospital chiefs, supervisors, through the Human Resources abandoned the area and for how Lapinig, Northern Samar and has an existing head doctor. administrative personnel and even Management Office. (Nestor long it was used by the rebels carted away high powered Orbon said that hospital laundry workers. Abrematea / Visayas Times) operating in Samar. firearms. (Nestor Abrematea / Among those recovered from Visayas Times) VOL 7 NO 1 & 2 4 este JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 EDITORIAL Editorial A mission for the poor EVERYBODY loves the poor. Especially during electoral campaigns. You will know that elections are getting closer, when politicians start loving the poor— again. And that’s always where the rub is, poverty is politicized. Same is true with the ideologues, such as the communists and their many strands. The poor is their poster boy. From Karl Marx down to gun- toting NPAs who exact revolutionary taxes from poor villagers, all of them make use of the poor as their ideological come-on. Those who help the poor for the poor’s own sake are few and far between, or so it seems. But when they come, one can’t help but be inspired. Take the case of the “Mission Partners” from the Diocese of Joliet in Illinois, U.S.A. They are the ones behind the Bulig Kablas Medical Mission (BKMM) that have been going to Eastern Samar for the last 15 years now. Although the BKMM is a partnership between the Diocese of Joliet with the Diocese of Borongan and the Provincial Government of Eastern Samar, the volunteers from the Diocese of Joliet are the ones that dominate the mission. The BKMM volunteers from the Diocese of Joliet are doctors and professionals from various fields of endeavor who certainly have no other agenda but to help the poor. On the side, they also bankrolled the on-going construction of the Charity Village which is a Blad Uzi housing project for the poorest of the poor located at the outskirts of Borongan City. To boot, many of them have been silently supporting for many years now the schooling of poor students Simple and humble under the care of the Oikos Sisters. thoughts The Oikos Sisters otherwise called the Sisters of the Poor Household of God (Oikos Ptochos Tou Theou) Bishop Crispin B. Varquez, D.D. were on the sidelines at the BKMM. Unlike the commendable staff of the Social Action Center of the Diocese of Borongan and the Eastern Samar Provincial Church of the poor Hospital who were at the thick of mobilizations and AT the start of this year 2019, we look poor at this time in my life, considering Mendicancy that is practiced by certain hospital work, the sister being just too few and too within and around ourselves to find the responsibilities and powers that God tribes/groups of people makes them overtly insignificant were at the backburner of the new opportunities to live our personal has entrusted to me, I cannot help but stay dependent on the charities of other whole operations. One would see them attending to mission within our communal mission think of the reasons why such kind of people. They do not seek to get out of the Joliet volunteers or gathering mission workers to as Church. One particular invitation that poverty continue to exist. Pondering on their situation. Their children are not praying holy hours, among others. But they could we recognize is our being a Church for these reasons may direct me to possible sent to school but are taught to beg and easily be the very icon for which BKMM stands for. To the poor. ways of truly helping. thus remain perpetually dependent. The help and live the lives of the poor, these they are and do. Among the many ‘poverties’ that our 1. Corruption. The heaviest and culture of gambling, having vices and Without intending to verge into the speculative, people endure is material poverty. This saddest reason why many people are other bad habits which affect families perhaps another help that BKMM has done to the is a fact and is sometimes, though not materially poor is the dishonesty and and have effects that are passed on from people of Eastern Samar and elsewhere for the last necessarily, the root of other poverties. greed of those who are supposed to generation to generation is also a real 15 years is unconsciously encourage, inspire or teach For example, children coming from be entrusted with the distribution of reason for material poverty. onlookers about the joy of volunteerism especially materially poor families may also be the goods of the earth to its citizens. 4. Natural and Manmade calamities. when done for the poor. Realizing that helping those in academically challenged due to their As somebody puts it, “The earth has The loss of lives and properties due to need is its own regard maybe the biggest achievement lack of nutrition. Oftentimes, they even enough for everyone’s needs but not calamities is without doubt causing the of BKMM. suffer academic deprivation. Materially enough for anyone’s greed.” Corruption, victims to experience material poverty. Pope Francis has a beautiful insight on this in his poor adolescents may also experience whether violent or subtle, is stealing This is self-explanatory. message for the first World Day of the Poor in 2017. He social and emotional poverty among away the wealth of individuals as well as These are just some possible reasons said: “All the poor—as Blessed Paul VI loved to say— their peers. These are just some of communities. why the poor are always with us. belong to the Church by ‘evangelical right’ (Address examples of how material poverty may 2. Geography. Some people cannot Knowing these may direct us to possible at the Opening of the Second Session of the Second cause other ‘poverties’. get out of material poverty because of ways of truly helping. The Lord calls us Vatican Ecumenical Council, 29 September 1963), and Material poverty among our people their geographical conditions such as to be poor of heart but never to cause or require of us a fundamental option on their behalf. disturbs me. Although Jesus told His unproductive terrains or very remote condone destitution among our people. Blessed, therefore, are the open hands that embrace disciples that the poor will always be locations. Although we may see that He Himself took on a preferential option the poor and help them: they are hands that bring hope. with them, the Gospels record many they are contented where they are, but for the poor. He never despised them, Blessed are the hands that reach beyond every barrier of His gestures which were meant to we cannot deny the sufferings they instead, He reached out to help them of culture, religion and nationality, and pour the balm alleviate the sufferings of the poor. He endure for being so deprived of even the even when His accusers were watching. of consolation over the wounds of humanity. Blessed even invited the man who wanted to basic needs at times. Since, we are His followers, we must do are the open hands that ask nothing in exchange, with gain eternal life to sell all that he had 3. Cultural. Another reason for material the same. The Lord Jesus is our Head, no “ifs” or “buts” or “maybes”: they are hands that call and to give the money to the poor. poverty is the culture that either seeks we are His Body. We are a Church for the down God’s blessing upon their brothers and sisters.” As I reflect on what I can do for the to remain in poverty or creates poverty. poor! EASTERN SAMAR NEWS SERVICE Antigo este Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo, VG ESTE is published monthly by the Diocesan Commission on Mass Media and Social Communications, with editorial and business offices at the DYVW Building, Baybay Blvd., Brief history of San Julian, Eastern Samar: its beginnings Borongan City. THE parish/township of whom from time to time the 4, 1863, Libas was separated was a diocesan, Fr Pedro Editor: Photographer: San Julian owes its origin to Jesuits from Sulat gathered from Sulat politically and Badul, who was assigned in Pepe Quitorio Alren Jerome Beronio the pre-Spanish settlement at a makeshift chapel for ecclesiastically, and as Guiuan from 1865 to 1866. Associate Editor: Layout Artist: of Libas. When the Jesuits worship and the doctrina, it already had enough Tradition has it that he was Neil Tenefrancia Sky Ortigas started evangelizing were engaged in farming population and revenues to pastor of Libas from 1871 to the inhabitants on the and fishing. support a priest, was erected 1874. The seat of the parish Managing Editor : Wed Admin: eastern littorals of Samar The establishment of into a diocesan parish on was, of course, Libas, with a Sr. Marinel Velasco, LGC Nani Ramos island in early 17th century, Libas in 1781 as a village August 25, 1871 wooden church dedicated to Libas was already a small was largely the work of a Our Lady of Sorrows. In 1865, NEWS Writers: Account Executive: RJ Abonal Sr. Marinel Velasco, LGC settlement, although the Franciscan parish priest of The new parish included the whole parish and town Eden Cidro term village could not be Sulat, Fr Melchor Claver. the visitas (barrios) of had a population of 2,940, Roy Lagarde applied to it. The houses Through his efforts, a Nonoc, the patron of which and a total of 835 tributes. Medora Quirante were far removed from church was constructed, was St Pascual Baylon, It also had a escuela de Edmel Raagas each other, and the place and houses were gathered Simangan, dedicated to primer enseñanza (roughly, www.estenews.org was without streets. It was around it. He directed St John the Baptist, and a primary school) located at [email protected] simply a group of houses that the construction of a casa Pagbangbanan, placed under the parish seat. Its big church dotted near the mouth of tribunal, a cemetery, and a the protection of St Francis of bell was acquired in 1885. www.facebook.com/estenewsborongan Libas river. The inhabitants, rectory (convento). On July Assisi. The first parish priest San Julian / 7 www.twitter.com/estenewsonline VOL 7 NO 1 & 2 OPINION JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 este 5

A Thought For A Thought Balik-balay Rev. Eutiquio B. Belizar, Jr., SThD Sarah Mabansag Puno In the face of a hostile leader Fresh start, new hope, MORE LOVE! FAMILIES gather every New Year’s time a mother to his children. (and/or consenting fellow believers) Eve to bid adieu to the old year and Adena (not her real name), an “Persecution is wrong words, indefensible as they are, line and sinker, in effect, also welcome the New Year. Many solemnly only daughter in the family with five not because it is cruel, but as “mere hyperbole” uttered “for become willing consenters to pray, others shout and even jump with brothers is always praying for the cruel because it is wrong.” dramatic effect” and to stress the their Church’s and their faith’s joy to thank the Lord for the graces unity of their family. Since the death —Whately “abuse he suffered at the hands persecution? It is, in fact, difficult and blessings received and excitedly of their parents, she and her brothers of a Catholic priest” not only is not to come to this observation TO be sure, the relationship grateful for the abundance promised with their own families are not in good has never been, as the millenni- an untruthful denial of reality when considering the realities at by the New Year. And with it are terms because of their properties left als put it, “a bro-mance”. In fact, but also is an insult to human work between the current leader resolutions for a fresh start. by their parents. Before this New Year it has been hardly friendly. From intelligence. If those words of government and the Church, Every family is unique. Every Adena met a vehicular accident that the day the Philippine Catho- came out of an ordinary citizen including the Christian faith she family has its own history, present almost took her life. Though painful, lic Church protested the drug- speaking publicly, he would stands for. Though they still go to and future. Every family has unique this was a blessing in disguise. Unlike war-related killings,—many of have scarcely escaped a public Church especially during popular stories that molded and is molding many New Years of the past, this New which have remained unsolved backlash or a litigation, to say feasts of the Poong Nazareno the person of every member. Stories Year was different. Her brothers with to this day—priests, bishops, the least. But in the Philippines (Black Nazarene) and the Santo that have lessons to learn. Stories that their families visited her and they had Catholics in general have been those words are often met with Nino (the Child Jesus), it is not at the receiving end of ver- laughter, always prompting the easy to tell how evangelized the inspire and stories that can make us a joyful family reunion. An answered bal attacks from the country’s realize that our family is a gift to us prayer for Adena, a fresh start for a leader, the likes of which have spokesman to declare them as faith behind Filipinos’ lavish “mere jokes” or “hyperbole”, devotions or whether they clearly and our God has a purpose why we close and loving family again. never been known or heard be- belong to it. A youth to whom I first shared fore. “The Catholic Church is the reactions that have become by appreciate what they believe in most hypocritical institution...” now so predictable that one and are ready to defend their Ben (not his real name), an hour these stories, giving a chance to him “Your God is stupid, unlike my could anticipate them at the faith in the face of the current before the year ended, with a to express his realizations as this year God”. “There’s only one God. You evening news. attacks against it. On the other pounding heart though with fear and is the Year of the Youth, he said that cannot divide God into three, Yes, laughter and even the hand, to expect Filipino Catholics shame prayerfully walked towards the New Year is a fresh start to do what that’s silly.” “You don’t have to clapping of hands are often to defend their faith also entails door of his family that he left for years is right and to rise with humility and go to church to pay for these observed after the leader’s that they have been adequately for another woman. He with tearful determination from our weaknesses idiots”. “Pero itong mga obispo tirades against the Church. As if prepared to do so, something eyes bravely knocked. And with the that pull us down. Our family should ninyo, patayin ninyo, walang silbi yang mga gagong yan (But to add salt to injury, those words Church leaders might not be noise of welcoming the opening of be open and be supportive to members these bishops of yours, kill were most recently seemingly able to assure. Consequently the year, the door was also widely to find their way to the path towards them, those fools are useless). ratified by an 81 percent approval to ask whether or not Filipinos opened for him. With warm embrace a stronger family. Relationship should All they do is criticize.” “Kayong rating from the obviously mostly Catholics’ awkward silence and he was welcomed to his home. Indeed be given importance more than mga tambay d’yan, pag dumaan Catholic public. Inevitably one the seeming public indifference this is a fresh start for him to be good wealth. And every New Year should yang obispo ninyo, huldapa ‘yan has to ask: Are Filipino Catholics to the attacks amount to a and responsible husband, father and be a fresh start to aim for a healthy maraming pera ‘yan p***** i** so mistrustful of their Church consent to the persecution of grandfather. life for everyone in the family, healthy n’ya (You loiterers there, if your leaders that they have become their own Church could lead to bishop passes that way, rob Antonio (not his real name) was mind, body and spirit. So New Year indifferent to, if not approving other questions, like: Do they not crying when the noise ushered in the is a NEW HOPE for a happier and a him, the S*********** has plenty of, them being pilloried verbally constitute a big statement on the of money).” [Laughter.] New Year. He thanked the Lord for healthier family life. and their faith attacked? Have real status of their faith formation, That the presidential the wonderful years he had with his A retired teacher concluded our so many Filipino Catholics or the lack of it? Or do they not spokesman often defends these who support their leader hook, show the depth of their fear of wife for 40 years who left him a week conversation by saying, “New Year is Leader / 7 before the New Year. He had mixed loving pa more.”Yes, New Year, new emotions, grief because of loss of a life, means letting unconditional love loved one and happy that the long reign in our families. We can’t forgive agony of his wife because of a serious and accept back a sinner without kidney disease has ended and she is loving more. We can’t be caring, Points to Ponder now rested in the loving hands of patient and understanding without her Creator. The New Year is a new loving more. We can’t be generous, Atty. Ceferino Baquilod, Jr. beginning for him to be a father same considerate and sensitive to the needs Making Noise for the New Year Fresh / 7 SINCE time immemorial, complain when we are wronged. government services’. Filipinos have always welcomed We have the right to ask Social media is a the new year with a variety questions and be enlightened potent platform where we can Voice of the Voiceless of noises. From firecrackers when things get dubious or make a lot of noise. Of course to fireworks, from blowing convoluted. We have the right to we are aware of paid trolls Fr. Fernando Navidad Egargo, Ph.D whistles and paper trumpets know the truth. hired purposely to invent and to banging pans, and dragging disseminate fake news. But empty cans, all these and more New Year’s Resolution with more reason that we Promoting the Culture of Life are what we see and experience Part of our New Year tradition should come together and fight everytime new year comes. The is making new year’s resolutions. these rumor mongerers and JANUARY 23, 2019 is the 46th life is not a disgrace. Human life is reason for the noise, we are told, Let us include making noise purveyors of fake news. If we anniversary of the infamous Roe V. the crown of creation that gives so is to ward off evil spirits. It is in our new year’s resolutions. remain quite, uninvolved and Wade decision of the US Supreme Court. much joy to God to the point that God believed that the more noise we If everyone of us will raise indifferent, these fake news and That day, it became legal to kill an baby did not think twice when He decided make, the less bad luck we get our voice and complain to the lies eventually appear as though in the womb of the mother. That baby to enter human history. Therefore, for the new year. proper authorities whenever they are true. Consequently, could have turned 46 years old this year. only a non-believer would fail to Since noise drives away evil we are violated or when we people believe in them and But as we know, that baby and millions appreciate the beauty and dignity spirits, we must make noise see wrong or injustice being are misled and misguided. more after him would become victims of human life. Only a non-believer not just at the onset of the new committed, maybe less evil will Our inaction emboldens and of a “culture of death” that considers would rejoice and promote a culture year but all year round. This be in our midst. Specifically, encourages these misinformers the termination of the life of an unborn of violence and death. is specially true because evil we should make noise and to spread more fake news. as something honorable and desirable. This month, many people would is so pervasive in our country report when we become aware We just celebrated the Birth of the mark the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade these days. We see a lot of evil of anomalies or corruption The Reality of Making Noise Lord. That birth is a testimony of how in various ways. Some would join the deeds, too many killings, too occurring in government offices. Despite the notion that a lot God entered human history and became March for Life, others might hold prayer many illegal drug victims and No less than our president of our complaints are generally too many corrupt officials who is encouraging us to report unwelcome, unattended or human. He created the human race and vigils at home or in their churches. were supposedly the best and corruption whenever we know worse result only in adverse embraced humanity as the greatest Let this day be observed not only as a the brightest. Even presidential of any. He has repeatedly stated consequences to complainants, expression of his love. As the Gospel public expression of our defense for the jokes have become too evil. that he is against corruption we should remain patient and of St. John says, “God so loved the world dignity of human life. Let this also be a Among the latest of these and he has promised to purge persistent. As they say, patience that He gave his only begotten Son” (John personal commitment and prayer to be jokes being Duterte’s detailed our government of corrupt is a virtue and persistence pays. 3:16). Human life is special; human life able to recognize the goodness of God in narrative on how he fingered officials. I know, some of us To be fair, there are complaints is precious. Every human life, therefore, every human being. Let us pray for and their maidservant when he was might have serious doubts that are addressed properly and is loveable and deserves to be loved work towards a culture that celebrates younger. in our minds regarding this, immediately. Others however and protected. In the Book of Psalms life. By celebrating life, we honor and Making noise is standing up especially because many of this end up high up in the air and (Psalm 8), King David is humbled by the please God. for what is right and making administration’s officials are may remain there forever grandeur of the universe and yet placed Here in the Philippines, we are slowly sure one’s voice is heard. It is involved in corruption. Be that unless ‘luck’ comes around the human race at the center: being fed with an evil misinformation raising concerns and informing as it may, we still should make and blows them to the right claiming that some form of life are the public of what needs to noise. As a matter of fact, we direction. It is a fact that in this “What is man that you are mindful of him, dispensable, that there are “others” be addressed for the good of should make our noise louder. administration, a lot of those and a son of man that you care for him? who do not deserve another day. But everyone. We should make We should utilize whatever is who made noise against blatant Yet you have made him little less than a as believers we have a response to noise whenever our rights are available to us legally. We should legal infractions like extra god, that false claim. Life is precious. Let trampled upon. We should call the president’s hotline, judicial killings and corruption crowned him with glory and honor” us protect it from the moment of make noise when our faith or 8888, the number dedicated were effectively silenced by conception to natural death. the very core of what we believe to ‘complaints against fixers, false prosecution, incarceration Human life is not an accident. I wish all of you a Blessed and Healthy in is under attack. We should scalawag officials and poor and ‘neutralization’. The latter Human life is not a burden. Human 2019, full of God’s goodness and care. Noise / 7 ESAMELCO ESAMELCO’s 41ST FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY Activities: 1. Fun Run/Walk, Zumba; 2. Holy Mass; 3. Battle of the Band Competititon VOL 7 NO 1 & 2 JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 este 7 San Julian / 4 Leader / 5 When commerce in Samar island improved the transfer became effective on August 14, what their government leader can do if they do well as by the local and worldwide media fixed in the late 19th century, the priest and the 1887 . not go his way? on the sex and authority abuses within her people recognized that the location of the Nonoc, the new poblacion, was It is good that several bishops did not let, and walls. Even if this imaging is both unjust and town placed it at an economic disadvantage. renamed San Julian, after the friar, Fr will not let, the chief executive’s very serious woefully incomplete, any reaction that could be In 1886, during the incumbency of Don Julian Diaz, the last resident priest of attacks go unanswered. But we the Church seen as an arrant and arrogant defensiveness Granizo Calim as gobernadorcillo, when the Libas and the first resident one in Nonoc. must first be clear as to what we wish to will only serve the cause of the persecutor and town had a total of 3,645 population, and the Itsfirst gobernardocillo was Don Francisco achieve by any response being contemplated his persecution. I find the words of the Master people were already part of the inter-town Villarazo. Since Nonoc had not a single street, and made public. Are those objectives aimed himself very compelling: “If the world hates commerce, Fr Julian Diaz, the parish priest, one of the first projects of the parishioners at defending the faith or merely at expressing you, know that it has hated me before it hated proposed that the poblacionbe transferred was the opening of streets And in compliance an emotional tit-for-tat? As to the latter, no one you” (Jn 15:18). to the visita of Nonoc largely for economic with the usual requirements of a poblacion, should ignore the fact that the chief executive That persecution could come from baptized reasons. Reads a document: Fr Diaz led in the construction of a parish has shown himself to be a master counter Catholics is particularly painful. But this is not R.C.P. Fr. Julian Diaz propuso que el pueblo church of stone (traditionally dated 1890), puncher in that he easily returns criticisms a first in the history of the Church; there are se trasladase al sitio se encontraba la Visita a church plaza, a casa tribunal (roughly, hurled his way with worse criticisms or enough instances in previous ages to indicate de Nonoc, como asi se hizo por las siguentes municipal building), a convento, a cemetery actions against his critics. He has a huge and that ours is not a unique situation. It is, however, deep arsenal of anger and mud on the Church a constant challenge and invitation for the razones: (1888), and a primary school (escuela de and her leaders that he keeps digging up to the Church in the Philippines to a serious and 1. Que “Libas” era y es un lugar bastante primer enseñanza). delight or approval of his minions. We should continuous examination of conscience and to a apartado del transito para los pueblos Meanwhile, Libas reverted to the status not aim to counter anger with anger. Paul re-appropriation of the truth that conversion, inmediatos de Borongan y Sulat, mientras of visita, populated by those Libasnons who the Apostle’s words should lead us: “Do not like charity, must begin and continue at home. que trasladando al lugar antes mentionado chose to remain in the settlement. Before the be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with In the final analysis, despite the pain and the de Nonoc, tendria facil y rapida comunicacion end of the Spanish regime, one more visita was good” (Rom 12:21). gloomy state of Church-state relations, it is son los mismos, y tendria ademas un aumento added to the pueblo (township) San Julian, It could be helpful if Church leaders listen also true that we are staring at an opportunity notable de negocios debido por frecuentes namely, Nena, which was already known for attentively to what our people are saying in in the face. Before us is an opportunity at an viajeros que van y vienen de pueblos its agricultural products. Originally known continuously approving of such a leader who “imitatio Christi”, an imitation of the Master. inmediatos. as Bulauan, its creation into a visita in 1893 constantly sends their Church such vicious It is an opportunity to take up a beatitude: 2. Que los que tienen todos sus intereses was recommended by the Gobernardor attacks. They may not necessarily be saying “Blessed are you when they revile you and en Libas no podian ser perjudicados el Politico-Militar, Don Ricardo Nouvilas, who that they are abandoning their faith. Nor do persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against que los mismos trasladaron al lugar antes named it after his beloved daughter Nena. they reflect a negative understanding of what you, falsely, on my account. Rejoice and be glad, mentionado, puesto que se pasa per via (Simangan became part of Sulat.) the Church or her leaders really are; but they for your reward is great in heaven, for so they maritima y no dista mas que dos millas poco At the same time, another barrio could reflect an image of the Church as it is persecuted the prophets who were before o menos. (probably Lunang) was made, and re-named painted, however unfairly, by their leader, as you” (Mt 5:11-12). Having been seconded by the majority San Antonio, after the name of a well-loved of the principales (town’s leading men), pastor of San Julian, but its existence was the proposition for the transfer of short-lived, not only because the place Noise / 5 the poblacion, after much deliberation, was was sparsely populated, but also because is more often applied to small time drug Church and priests have become main targets locally approved on April 7. 1886. With the many of its inhabitants transferred to the users, pushers, etc, who need to be silenced of demolition jobs. stamp of approval by the governor general in poblacion. In 1909, San Isidro was separated and not make noise regarding their suppliers The unceasing attack and mockery of Manila, with the assistance of the Gobernador from Pagbabangnan, and became and and coddlers. The big fishes have remained the Catholic Church by the President is Politico-Militar Don Pelayo Echacon y Lopez, independent visita.* uncaught and they continue to do business as unprecedented. But this should not dampen usual. Hence, drug proliferation has pervaded our resolve, as Catholics and Christians, and worsened. Arguably, one of the most to bring to front or uncover the truth. To Fresh / 5 effective and threatening noisemakers is the do otherwise would be to allow lies and of others without loving more. And loving common denominator. A family is a gift Catholic church. Priests have used the pulpit falsehoods to prevail. As believers of Jesus, more includes praying more for the family. from God to every person. And every in preaching to churchgoers basic tenets of we need to stand up and make noise and be Thanking God for the gift of family and lifting family is for God. A family in spite of its right and wrong, specially as they relate to heard of how we feel about the atrocities scripture. Some have used main stream and being hurled against our faith. it to God for graces and blessings to sustain imperfection is a vehicle of a person to social media to clarify facts or inform the Despite all these blasphemies and it and for His guidance for His holy will for heaven. public of what is real, specially in the light of all degradations, there are those of us who each and every member of the family. May this 2019 lead us all towards our the misinformation campaigns from sectors firmly believe that one day, in His time, God Every family has its unique story but true destination by living a new life with attempting to advance falsities and half truths will reign supreme in the hearts of everyone all families inspite of diversities have a new hope and more love. to justify their conduct or behaviour. It is including the antiChrist, and things will be therfore easy to understand why the Catholic better for all of us. Thanks to our Donors / Benefactors for this issue BORONGAN Marlyn Dadulla SULAT GUIUAN SABANG Marlon – Aileen Arago Donors: Mary Jane G. Gapud Donors: Benefactors: Donors: Donors: Adelaida Uy Mr. & Mrs. Alfredo Cabato, Jr. Hon. & Mrs. Jun M. Gecomo & Alexius & Renzy Abella Anastacia Bustillo Aida Anasarias Adorers of the Blessed Sacrament Mr. & Mrs. German Silvero and Children Alyson Store Bec Lucy Distuinguido Elena Lobederio Allan – Cleofe Baquilod Children Ma. Nida L. Baldado& children Fe Navales & Children Marcelos Restotel Joshua Emmanuel & Ella Celada Angel Dulfo Mr. & Mrs. Robert Rosales Rex Peter & Roselle Marvi Felisa Malindog & Family Mr. & Dra. Reynaldo Miflores & Children Gemma G. Apita Bea & Joyce Ampong Mrs. Blys C. Blanco Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie S. Kier Andrei Gloria Marvin Rosales Benito Alfeo B. Cabato, Jr. Myrna P. Guasis- KAHLUCZI Campomanes& Children Mr. & Mrs. Raul Romanca & Benefactors: Multi Link Celma & Fauato Yaras Convenient Store Brielle Angelina de Paz Perla Balagapo Delia Bianez Neuro Medical Clinic Benefactors: Mr. & Mrs. Leo Ecleo Anonymous Tracy Lou Obon Dr. & Mrs. Rolando C. Solidon Oscar – Noraliza Tañada Catalina J. Operario Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Abletes Dra. Pilita B. Sinagbuhan Mr. & Mrs. Armando Apita Duanie Paperprint Gen. Merchandise Ralph Justine C. Amoyo Edel A. Aboga-a Mr. Marvin Corral Edgardo Juaban Mr. & Mrs. Cris Lim Ed de Guzman Rebecca Picardal Elizabeth Aclo- Balita Mr.Eden Sumeguin & Family Francis Vic, Shery Jane &Louraine Mr. & Mrs. Gary Peter Gazo Edgar Andor Regalado & Erna Opeña Evelyn A. Opimo Mrs. Myrna Isaig & family Jane Guitieres Aira Antonette, Kaye Vicenta Elsie Cargando Rogen Alegre & Children Ida M. Evardone Mr. & Mrs Edgar Balbuena Mr. & Mrs. Antonio Lomero Feliza,Edward Francis Ang Emie Lauresta Rommel/ Gina Robredillo Josephine C. Limbo Ms. Analyn Servano Mr. & Mrs. Aurelio Magalona & Erlinda A. Langomes Ronnil Jim A. Ladiao Leonarda Padriquela Ms. Analita Pelicano Family Benefactors: Erna Ester A. Cabus Rosaleo & Clariza Promeda Ma. Bibian C. Yaput Patrocenia Canites Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Cunanan Antonio & Lilibeth Cidro Evelyn Norma Padrilan Sarah C. Geroy Matilde C. Palileo William Kessler Algo Mr. & Mrs. Dante Badar Ari Lloyd & Clementine Floria Montes Teresa L. Abelgas Mr. & Mrs. Dante R. Sumbilla Mr. & Mrs. Renato Gaytos Arlu & Risa Lei Iñigo Evardone Tony & Becky Campomanes Mr. & Mrs. David Jasojaso & MERCEDES Mr. & Mrs. Rey Sabido Brent Gaillian M. Dagandan Jesse Escoto family Mr. & Mrs. Ronquillo Salvedia Carl Niño D. Amoso, Charlie & Judith A. Eljira ORAS Rebecca C. Pitogo Benefactors: Mr. & Mrs. Rufino Garado Charles Matthew Lea L. Cardona Roxanne D. Sumbilla Mr. and Mrs Claro Ramiro M. Mr. Nilo Naing Glenda Casillano Lilia Peviar Benefactors: Teresita B. Lusico Garado and children Mrs. Alma Mabansag Jeric Paul Afable Mano Lando& Ate Flor Aquino Judge Margie MutiaPalaña Winefreda C. Acong Mr. and Mrs Rogelio S. Tanqui-on Mrs. Beatriz Egargo Kit Edgar Balein Marife Bencito Mrs. Aida S. Isaig Zita D. Acampado and children Mrs. Charito Estudillo Dario Wilmer Penaranda Mark Christian M. Salamida Mrs. Aquilina Lomuntad Mr. and Mrs Alberto Eder and Mrs. Concordia Lumain Michael Ambil Mary Jane Anasarias Mrs. Corazon N. Senofa SAN JULIAN children Mrs. Erma Arias Princess Lexi P. Acala Mother Gemma A. Silvero, MSH Mrs. Delia N. Jongco Mr. and Mrs Francisco Lacbayen Mrs. Epifania de Vera Mr. & Mrs. Fernando Cantilang Mr. & Mrs. Edilberto Cardona Mrs. Lydia Mutia Donors: Jr. and son Mrs. Eva Diaz Ida Seso Ms. Celita Agus Mrs. Virginia M. Raagas Marianita Ruiz Mr. and Mrs Dondear Naputo Mrs. Gregoria Calumpiano Leonila Anir Noel C. Discar Paz Nicart and children Mrs. Luz Perez Tabernilla Modesta Campomanes Patricio Balsacao TAFT Mr. and Mrs Franco Abarollo Mrs. Mary Grace Soraya Duran Mr. & Mrs. Adriano Aldea Roessi Mae Arat Benefactors: Mr. and Mrs Antonio Gajelan and Mrs. Mila Obias Mr. & Mrs. Arnaldo Amosco, Jr. Rowena Pantaleon Donors: Mr. & Mrs. Alejandro Ambal children Mrs. Pilar Arceño Mr. & Mrs. Leo Esquierdo Ruby Ann C. Balbin Mrs. Dionisia C. Donozo Mr. & Mrs. Gervacio Amboy Ms. Nikka Kaye Quirante Mrs. Princilla Badoc Mr. & Mrs. Moises Germudo Ruth Arre Mr. & Mrs. Ambrocio Chicano Mr. & Mrs. Gloria A. Mercado Mr. and Mrs Alfredo M. Estor Sr Mrs. Resalina Abogadie Mr. & Mrs. Renato Wong Ruth Straka Mr. & Mrs. Fidel Vista Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Lisaca & Family Ms. Rosario Abrigo Mr. Revilla Cantano Mr. & Mrs. Romeo Devora Water Avenue c/o Ms. Belma Mabao Mr. & Mrs. Rodrigo Ceblano Mr. & Mrs. Noe L. Pomentil Ms. Almera C. Regis Mrs. Riza Lozada Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Bingco WHEELERS APARTELLE Mr. & Mrs. Yvenn J. Casinillo Mr. and Mrs Leo Duran Mrs. Rosemarie Amistoso Mr. & Mrs. Michael Nerves Wilma Caspe Tavera Benefactors: Ms. Elvira Amoyan Mrs. Delia Caballegan Mrs. Veronica Miflores Mr. & Mrs. Allan Waniwan Zeny Rivera Eugenia Campo Ms. Gilda Doligon Mr. and Mrs Remberto Orocay Family Nelia Alvero & Family Mr. & Mrs. Pascual A. Docena Sean Marpit G. Ty Macapugas Pablo Cabugawan Tita Beato Benefactors: Mrs. Agnes P. Gale Zoila M. Cajipo Niño and Nikko Agda Violeta L. Sison Yolanda Morte Antonieta C. Ana Mrs. Elisa S. Chicano Mr. and Mrs Marlito Padrigano Arnulfo & Doris Cajegas Mrs. Flores Lebrilla GENERAL MACARTHUR Melba Abringe Catering Serivices SALCEDO Aileen Singson Mrs. Jovita Dotingco Anonymous SULANGAN Antonio & Becky Campomanes Mrs. Lydia Adel Donors: Benefactors: Benefactors: Eastern Polymedic Mrs. Lydia Caspe Dr. & Mrs. Arnel Salamida LLORENTE Marcia C. Alde Ellen Grace Abude Mrs. Milagros Busa Mr. & Mrs. Gerwen Baldicañas Fe D. Macawile Masmar D. Delista Fiscal & Mrs. Carlos A. Catubao Gina P. Delgado Mrs. Natividad Macahig Mr. & Mrs. Salvador Anaba-ab Donors: Manager Zaldy & Atty Noemi Ian Carl C. Amoyo Mrs. Paz Q. Adel Mr. & Mrs. Marcelito Gajol Dra. Bernadette Galacan Catubao Tan Jonie Allan & Elena & Florens Dulfo Mr. & Mrs. Rico Eldefonso Amores Mr. & Mrs. Ismael Bernard Kho Nancy Alde

Josephine Rivera dela Rosa Dominga Dolio Vice Mayor Joel Baldo & Edsel Ian & Karen Bormate Luisa Payuyao Ms. Conception Balbaboco children Jesseth L. Adora Marilou G. Castillo VOL 7 NO 1 & 2 8 este JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 Vignettes on Bulig Kablas Medical Mission Bulig Kablas Medical Mission (BKMM) is a tripartite initiative of the Diocese of Joliet in Illinois, USA, the Diocese of Borongan and the Provincial Government of Eastern Samar. Now on its 15th year, this mission diversifies into building houses for the poorest of the poor, serving the dental needs of prisoners and attending to various medical needs of the poor of Eastern Samar that are gathered at the Eastern Samar Provincial Hospital in Borongan. The following are the postings of Mr. Bruce Carlson in the Facebook “Partnership in Mission”.

January 28, 2019 the construction team noticed the water events; first the visit to a selected village first week and reflect on the coming week coming out of the local well had a greenish where we will have games with the kids. I remember the great conversations I have Our first working day in Borongan. As is tint to it. A sample of the water was sent to Then we host the lunch program and feed had with the missioners. Sure we talk about the tradition we go to the hospital for the hospital for a analysis. It was the things the kids and give food packs to the families. the various task we perform during the daily Mass. Next was the welcoming in the water that was making everyone sick. The medical team is busy with surgeries and day. Medical talks about the surgeries and orientation. This is where all of the Another comment is how the Philippines a host of people coming to the clinic. The challenges they face. Construction updates outreach team is preparing for the weekend us on the progress of the duplex they are activities; the Saturday night Mass and kids building, on the houses that are being presentation. Sunday evening will be the big painted. Outreach visiting various areas pool party at the hotel. We will celebrate with dental care and other programs to help those who have birthdays in February. Rich people receive dignity, painting of the mural. and I went to prison to check out the set up But sometimes it’s the sharing you have for the dental team. The prison (District Jail with the missioners on what mission means in Dolores, Eastern Samar) has 80 inmates and how heir faith is involved. It starts off They will start with the most in need and simply with what happened during the day, work to the ones just in need of. but then someone brings up something that happened that touched them. Something February 3, 2019 deeper that just doing a task. Something that touched their heart, something that We are half way through the Philippines reminded them that there is a God. Or when Mission to Borongan. It has been a challenging one of the reading tries directly into an event mission with travel and licensing, but we during the mission. We make the connection have worked our way through everything so and suddenly you drop into the sense of God, far. Once we got going on Monday everyone faith and share what is in your heart. took up their responsibilities and we got We have two and a half days of work left down to business. Surgeries are going well. before we start to close down the mission. Construction is well on its way to completing But I wonder what stories will be told. the duplex we are building this year. Outreach What faith will be shared? Mission is great, The members of the mission team from the Diocese of Joliet as they render a number at the closing program of BKMM held in the evening of January 7, 2019. (Photo courtesy of Bruce Carlson) and the dental team are very busy going to the spirit is flowing. What stories will we different places to care for the people. The tell back home of our faith and how will it partnerships of the mission give their people tolerate the pain of tooth extraction, weekends are a time for everyone to get out inspire others to come on mission? welcome message and introductions. their patience in waiting, and their heart felt into the local area and see the people and February 7, 2019 With the welcomes complete we start on thanks when they receive our various tasks. The hospital is in setup medical care, a new mode. The medical team is putting the final home, a simple meal. touches on the ORs, recovery room, and Our missioners return patient support areas. The dental team home and look at their drove 40 kilometers to a town, I believe, worlds and typically named Taft. The construction team went rethink their lives and to Charity Village to start working on how blessed they are. this year’s construction projects. Charity They also start to see Village has changed quite a bit from last the poverty around them year. Because of quickly rising cost of and other social issues. construction materials the style of home Missioners start to see has changed from the traditional single the homeless, those who family wood structure to a more resilient have little, the child that duplex two family block construction wishes they could get home. It also cost more to build the duplex an education. Suddenly home. We worked on digging a foundation these are our brothers for a new duplex home, painting of a and sisters Jesus talked duplex, and building the rebar support about. Your world most structure. likely will change if you go on mission. January 31, 2019 February 1, 2019 Today is our fourth working day of the mission. I find it interesting to listen to the It’s Friday! We have missioners comment about experiences made it to the end of in doing their tasks during the day. Simple the first week. Many of tasks like rinsing their toothbrush in the the missioners have said tap water, something you don’t think about how fast the first week at home. Yet, here in Borongan we can’t has gone. Each of the Photo taken at the Eastern Samar Provincial Hospital during the Bulig Kablas Medical Mission days. (Photo courtesy of Penelope Pomida) promise that the water coming from the teams has said they are tap is clean. One story shared was about busy and have much to do. The teams spirit culture. Of course, Saturday is the big event doctors being stumped as to why people is high and eager to see what the weekend of the day. Mass, dinner, and the kids putting AND so ends another mission to were getting sick in a village. Someone on will bring. We have our traditional Saturday on their skits and singing their songs. No Borongan, Philippines. We are packed matter how many times up and ready to begin the journey home. I’ve been here to see Some will head home directly and others it, it never gets old. It’s will spend time in The Philippines or a joyous time with the other locations before getting home. But Oikos. Enjoy the pictures we all spent two weeks being with the and may be think about people of Borongan. We came to help and joining us sometime in share ourselves and gifts. For two weeks the near future. we have worked and lived among the people of Borongan. We have learned and February 4, 2019 gained so much from our brothers and sisters here. We will return home to share We started our second the stories of mission with those we know week of mission today. and love. Time seems to be going We started our final day with the quicker this year. We’re ground breaking in Charity Village of the doing the same type of chapel and community center. Then it activities we have always was everyone to the hospital to pack up done, time just seems to the items used and inventory what we did be going quicker for this not use. Tonight was the farewell dinner mission. Friday will be hosted by Governor Picardal and Bishop here before we know it Crispin. We celebrated our work and and we will be saying looked to the future. We check out in the goodbye to all our friends morning and start the journey home. We in Borongan and coming should be back in Chicago around 8:30am home to be will our on Saturday. Time to begin work on new A portion of the Charity Village that is under construction located at the outskirts of Borongan City. Part of the outreach program of BKMM, this families and friends. missions and open ourselves to other project is funded by the Partnership in Mission of the Diocese of Joliet and supervised by the Oikos Sisters. (Photo courtesy of Bruce Carlson) As I look back on the opportunities.