Vol. 96, No. 5, March - April 2020

Inside: MW Suan attends Overseas DisCon

Masonry in the time of the Coronavirus MW Suan visits The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 GLP backstops Anti- In This Issue

COVID-19 frontliners Editor’s Note 2 EDITORIAL BOARD Masonic Eco-Tour Park Ground-Breaking 4 In response to the crisis, the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and VW Marlon M. Castor Face Shields for Frontliners 7 Accepted Masons of the through the Disaster Relief Committee Editor In-Chief MW Suan dedicates Temple 8 chaired by MW Bro. Voltaire Gazmin, PGM, and VW Bro. Benito K.Tan as VW EDGAR S. BENTULAN Mayon Lodge No 61 Soujourns to Scotland 10 Associate Editor Vice-Chairman, donated 4000 pcs of N95 face masks to the PNP through In the seach for light 12 WB HAROLD W. SANTIAGO Bro. Guillermo Eleazar for use by the PNP manning the check points. GM leads N. Ecija Cornerstone-Laying 14 News Editor Of Masonic Wills 16 WB MARK ERIC M. CASTOR MW Suan visits Marinduque 22 Media Arts Director MW Suan attends installation of lodges 24 CONTRIBUTORS The Grand Master’s Visitors 26 Bro. Joey Villegas Bicol brethren join Quince Martires Rites 27 Bro. Erwin Lee Cervantes Isagani Lodge No. 96 28 VW Bro. Anthony Tan, PDGL Masonry In The Time Of The Corona Virus 32 VW Bro. Joselito Maghirang, PDDGM Brethren At The COVID-19 Frontlines 50 VW Bro. Ronnie Del Birut, DGL VW Bro. Benito K. Tan Brethren Joins COVID-19 Warfront 63 Sis. Maria Rita Francia R. Fornoles Pasig S & C Club Provide Relief 66 MW Suan Attends Overseas DisCon 67 The Cable Tow is the official publication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge Guam: Where Light comes 2 hours ahead 70 of Free and Accepted Masons of the Guam and the Endgame of the Philippine 81 Philippines. It is a fortnightly publication Revolution for and in the interest of the members of Primera Republica holds 1st Installation 92 the subordinate lodges in this jurisdiction, MD NCR-F holds district awards night 94 who are regular subscribers thereto. JDI institutes new Tuguegarao Bethel 96 Original articles are subjected to editing, Clark Freeport claims AnCom 2021 Hosting 99 and when published becomes the Talavera Lodge No. 273 heeds GM’s call 100 intellectual property of the publication. Montalban Lodge No. 376 makes mark vs. 102 Any article published in The Cable Tow COVID-19 efforts may be reprinted in full, or excerpts thereof reproduced, provided proper Shangrila Lodge No. 196 writes stellar year 104 attribution to the author is made, the source is given due credit, and The Cable Tow desk is furnished with a courtesy copy of the reprinted material. The publication ABOUT THE COVER: This issue’s cover holds office at the G/F Plaridel Masonic features the great luminary of nature of Temple, 1440 San Marcelino St., Ermita, Nature rising in the East over the Plaridel Masonic Temple during one of the flag- D 2801, Philippines. PAID raising ceremonies being conducted at the ADVERTISEMENTS ARE ACCEPTED GLP Complex in Malate, Manila. FOR PRINTING IN THE CABLE TOW. II Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 1 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 This issue will also feature the see some of our Craft businesses installation of officers of some lodges come to a slowdown with the Editor’s Notes who have been kind enough to send possibility of holding our Annual By VW Marlon M. Castor, PGO us their photos and write-ups of Communication on a date and venue The madness of March 2020 their events. that circumstances would allow. ***** ***** START STRONG. FINISH STRONGER. The recent enforcement of the As I write the final words on Volume Seems like a good way to end another Masonic term. Alas! This is it Enhanced Community Quarantine 96 of The Cable Tow, I offer a prayer for Volume 96 and Issue No. 5 caps most of the events that occured in most parts of the archipelago has to the GAOTU that His Divine during the term of MW Bro. Agapito S. Suan, Jr. indeed changed the way Filipinos Protection would cover the world As of press time, the number of those a considerable number of brethren live in recent days. and may He allow us never to lose confirmed cases infected with the while the paper printout has yet to faith in others as well as in ourselves. dreaded COVID-19 has breached be sent out. As we gradually cease to make contact the 1 Million mark worldwide with the rest of society towards a ***** with over 3,000 cases here in the Once again, allow me to thank those more sedentary-type of lifestyle to Philippines. who were kind enough to contribute, avoid the threat of contamination, To the brethren, I hope that most of namely: Bro. Joey Villegas, WBro. people tend to focus more internally: you enjoy reading this issue as much While ost of Metro Manila is Harold Santiago, WBro. Mark Eric towards family, towards home, and as I enjoy making it. entering the fourth week of the Castor, VW Bro. Ronnie Del Birut, towards our spiritual and emotional ECQ, I am helpless and constrained VW Bro. Bong Maghirang, Bro. well-being---aspects that we often God bless, brethren! to be confined within the comfort Edwin Lee Cervantes, VW Bro. take for granted when we conduct and safety of my home. I can’t Benito Tan, and Sis. Pang Forlones. our respective professions. VW Marlon M. Castor, PGO complain though as I have a bubbly Editor In Chief, Volume 96 1-year old daughter and a pregnant ***** Nowadays, contact becomes taboo- The Cable Tow wife keeping me company during --so our tokens and passes takes a these days of lockdown. In this issue, we will again follow the back seat and we, as a jurisdiction, travels and adventures of our Grand would find ways of acknowledging Putting this issue wasn’t easy as I Master, MW Bro. Agapito S. Suan, Jr. each other. have to do it via “remote control” as he keep in touch and communicate sourcing most of my materials from with lodges and brethren of this ***** prolific writing brethren, friends, grand jurisdiction. and of course, the internet and social It is indeed sad and tragic that this media. Thus, we will post pictures of virus would also take its toll on the institutions (yes! more lodges!), Craft. Yet despite the obstacles, Vol. 96 No. installations, and temple dedications 5 of The Cable Tow was able to come to which our Grand Master along Apart from the considerable number out with 104 interesting pages, which with members of his team, have of worthy brethren and friends that this humble writer hopes will reach graced, attended, and presided over. this pandemic has claimed, we also 2 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 3 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The ambitious project sits on a events in the and 5,000 square meter land donated Bicol Regions. by the Gapangada, Monzones. and Nocon families. Kuyang Najie G. The Masonic Museum & Library will Gapangada, Jr. and Kuyang Benjie be the repository of the 108 years of Monzones are members of Malinaw Masonry in the Province of . Masonic Lodge No. 25 while It will be open to the public and Kuyang Andrew O. Nocon and will showcase the contributions of sons, Noel Teofilo and Neil Andrew Masons from Laguna in shaping the are members of Makiling Masonic destiny not only of the province but Lodge No. 72 while the other son, of the nation in general. The Library Noah, is member of Nilad Masonic will be open to schools and scholars Lodge No. 12. from around the country and will archive and digitize the masonic The Masonic Eco-Tourism Park, books, materials, issues of The which is a first in the Philippine Cable Tow, magazines, installation Masonic jurisdiction of the will souvenirs and other materials, comprise of a District Multi-Purpose from the ten (10) lodges within the Hall, which can accommodate 1,000 District. WHEN MASONS MEET AT THE SLOPES OF MT. SAN CRISTOBAL: THE GRAND guests and will also serve as a venue MASTER MW Bro. Agapito S. Suan, Jr.LED THE LAGUNA BRETHREN IN THE for masonic and public special The DDGM has made representations CORNERSTONE-LAYING OF A MASONIC OBELISK LAST FEBRUARY 16, 2020. 1st Masonic Eco-Tourism Park breaks ground By VW Bro. Joselito Maghirang, Jr., PDDGM

Last February 16, 2020, the Grand The Masonic Landmark, nestled Master, MW Bro. Agapito S. Suan, at 320 meters above sea level at Jr. together with the District Deputy the eastern slope of the majestic Grand Master of RIV-Laguna, mountain of San Cristobal in the DDGM Najie B. Gapangada, Jr. City of San Pablo, overlooks the led the brethren of Laguna in the provinces of Laguna, , cornerstone-laying and ground- , Rizal, and breaking of the tallest Masonic Mindoro. It is bounded on the Obelisk in the Philippines which east by Mt. Banahaw and Mt. THE GRAND MASTER, MW BRO. Agapito S. Suan, Jr. and DDGM, VW BRO. Najie will be erected out of the rocks and San Cristobal, on the west by Mt. Gapangada, Jr. with the brethren of Masonic District R-IV Laguna at stones of Mt. San Cristobal. Makiling and Mt. Malarayat. the eastern slopes of Brgy. San Cristobal IN San Pablo City, LAGUNA. 4 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 5 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020

Photo of DDGM VW BRO. Najie Gapangada, Jr. coordination meeting with Ms. Celia Diaz-Laurel, UPLB-CAS DSS Professors: Prof. Zoilo D. Belano, Chair, Prof. Miguel Enrico G. Ayson, Prof. Eugene P. Crudo; JZML 202 (mother lodge of EAM WE GOT YOUR BACK ... ER, FACE: BRO. MICHAEL GEOVIL ROVERO, SENIOR WARDEN Bro. Doy Laurel): WMe Bado Silva, JZML 202, SWe Jake Forsuelo; SHL Museum & OF LODGE NO. 207, TOGETHER WITH HIS FAMILY, CREATES MUCH-NEEDED Library, Curator & Writer: Chris D. Bonoan; from the Doy Laurel Foundation: FACE SHIELDS FOR THE HEALTH WORKERS OF PANAY HEALTH CARE MPC HOSPITAL Atty Bunz Arrieta; and Special Asst. to CDL: Ms. Miriam Castillo AS ADDED PROTECTION AGAINST POSSIBLE COVID-19 CONTAMINATION. for institutional linkages with the of Masonic District RIV Laguna in University of the Philippines at Los building the tallest masonic obelisk Aklan Masonic Lodge No. 207, Masonic family rally Baños and the Salvador H. Laurel made of stones in the Philippines, behind health workers Museum and Library. Further, an the District Multi-Purpose Hall, organizing committee headed by Museum, and Library. He reminded Dr. Elvis Bedia, Atty. Roy Rebanal, the brethren that the cornerstone of Face shields for Engr. Aaron Cabrera, Toti Del the success of any masonic activity Rosari,o and District Secretary Bong are grounded on 3 important virtues: frontliners Maghirang was formed to pursue the Humility, Humility and Humility. construction of the obelisk as well Aklan Masonic Lodge No. 207, as conduct fund raising activities to The project will benefit not only the led by its Worshipful Master, WM ensure the success of the project. brethren of Laguna but will serve as Opet Mayor and its Senior Warden, a convergent point for all Masons Bro. Michael Geovil Rovero and The Grand Master, in his speech from the other Masonic Districts. It his family, backstopped efforts during the groundbreaking event is hoped that the Masonic Obelisk againts the spread of the dreaded lauded the trail-blazing and shall serve as the beacon that would COVID-19 virus by fabricating visionary leadership of Kuyang Najie reach out and bring together all and distributing homemade face in bringing together the brethren Masons even from far flung districts. shields for health workers of Panay. 6 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 7 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020

ABOVE: MW Bro. Agapito S. Suan, Jr., UNVEILING THE TEMPLE MARKER OF jose abad santos masonic lodge no. 333. THE GRAND MASTER MW Bro. Agapito S. Suan, Jr., Led in the temple dedication of the jose abad santos masonic lodge no. 333 in mabalacat It was named in honor of Chief It was during the 2nd term of WB city, pampanga LAST AUGUST 10, 2019. Justice Jose Abad Santos – Past Gozun (Past Master of Magalang Grand Master, World War II Martyr 391) that the lodge have finally and the most celebrated son of realized its dream of a having a MW Suan dedicates Pampanga. temple of its own. new Pampanga Temple By WBro Harold W. Santiago, PM

Jose Abad Santos Masonic Lodge 2019. No.333 under the leadership of WB Allan S. Gozun, PM finished their Constituted in July 1, 2000 during first Temple at Brgy. Mawaque, the term of then MW Oscar V. Bunyi Mabalacat City, Pampanga. The with VW Virgilio E. Bunao as Charter said edifice was dedicated by MW Master, JASML No.333 was the 3rd Agapito S. Suan, Jr. last 10 August Masonic Lodge in this jurisdiction the brethren of jose abad santos masonic lodge no. 333. Anno Lucis 6019, Anno Domini to be located in Pampanga. 8 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 9 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 Last February 11, 2020, a delegation jurisdiction. composed of eleven brethren from Mayon Lodge No. 61, F. & A.M. The Filipino delegation of Mayon traveled to the Scotland to attend and Lodge No. 61 composed of the visit a lodge meeting of The Lodge of following brethren: Bro. Noel E. Edinburg No. 1 at the Lodge Temple Rosal, PJGL, Bro. Eugene C. Cua, Building along 19 Hill St., Edinburg, PJGL, Bro. Jerome C. Lee, PDDGM, Scotland. Mayon Lodge No. 61 is the Bro. Dennis A. Sy-Reyes, PM, very first official visitation by a lodge Bro. Rene Waldo B. Moran, PM, hailing from the Philippine Masonic Bro. Julius D. Ovilla, Bro. Francis Mayon Lodge No. 61 brethren sojourns to ALWAYS A TREAT: AFTER ATTENDING THE MEETING OF THE LODGE OF EDINBURG Scotland By VW Bro. Benito K. Tan NO.1, THE BRETHREN OF MAYON LODGE NO. 61 WERE TREATED TO A SUMPTUOUS DINNER BY THEIR GRACIOUS HOSTS. N. Alisago, Bro. Jonathan June S. Master himself, MW Bro. William Peralta, Bro. Karlo D. Jacob, Bro. Ramsey McGhee, who himself Antonio Gari L. Zamora, and Bro. recently visted the Philippines a few Benito K. Tan (Honorary Member). weeks before. The delegation was eleated to have visited the hallowed During their visit, the Filipino grounds of Scottish Freemasonry. brethren were fortunate to have To commemorate the occasion, witnessed a proficient 3rd Degre a token was also presented to the Working under the able leadership Grand Master himself, MW Bro. of RWM Scott Harrison. After the William Ramsey McGhee meeting, the Filipino brethren were treated to a sumptuous dinner by the Scottish brethren. In token of their appreciation, the brethren presented their host with a token.

On February 13, 2020, the delegation along with their better halves were THE SCOTLAND VISTItATION TEAM OF MAYON LODGE No. 1: 11 members of treated to a tour of the Grand Lodge mayon lodge no. 61 visited our brethren in scotland last february 11, of Scotland building where they were 2020. welcomed by no less than the Grand AT THE GRAND LODGE OF SCOTLAND. 10 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 11 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 Light has fascinated the human race light can be a particles and it can be of the lessons learned in the degrees. lodge. Hence, those unworthy who since time immemorial. To the pious, a wave. Masons are thought that a brother is a have been conferred with the degrees light has significant part during traveller upon this world, he learned ultimately mingled with those worthy creation for it was then the earth was But that was not the end of the that what is seen is temporal and the brethren like wolves within the without form and darkness was upon story, because behind the science, unseen is eternal, for whatever he flock of sheep not easily recognize. the face of the deep. (Gen 1:2). For a veil of mysticism set apart those do for himself will die with him but Those unworthy whose hearts and the Psalmist, light is a manifestation who only see the temporal nature of whatever he do for the sake of others minds were not in conformity with of the Almighty Father, salvation, light from those who see it beyond shall remain and immortal. Hence, Masonic teachings, but rather filled and strength (Psalm 27:1). As to its the confine of spatial perception. To armed with symbols, every mason with misleading principles, lovers nature, it baffled the early men of the adept, initiate and philosophers endeavors to square his action of vices, vanities, and greedy for science of what light really consists light is not merely limited to a by square of righteousness and prestige and connections. Those of. Some say it is made of particles thing that illuminates our material circumscribed his passion towards unworthy perniciously sow faction while some said it was a wave, and surroundings but likewise to that all mankind until finally living a life and disharmony among the brethren where wealth, pleasure, power and until such time unnoticed the lodge prestige are no longer his desires but become polluted with corrupt enlightenment. As Masons, we long minds. for eternal peace and contentment, believing that it can only be achieved Indeed, the conferral was solemn In the in unity with the Supreme Grand with veneration to the great architect Master in the celestial lodge above of the universe, but it seems some where there is no room for tears, brethren receive a different kind of suffering and tyranny. light…received from whom?. We all masons should know that there search for The light received by the candidate is an imitated light, promising some while kneeling before the altar is kind of enlightenment, not knowing not for everyone who desires for it. it beguile us leading to abyss of The candidate must be worthy and infamy. It behoves like the one light... qualified, properly vouch for, of that a candidate or regular mason his own free will and accord, and is seeking for, however, said light sincerely well prepared to receive the did not come from God, but rather By light of illumination. Similarly, we from God’s greatest nemeses- the Bro. Erwin Lee Cervantes are forewarned of those candidates Devil. As it is written in the Bible in MA-BU-TI Masonic Lodge No. 329 driven by mercenary motives 2 Corinthians 11:14 “And no marvel City of , Masbate and those who are faint hearted for Satan himself is transformed who feared most for self-change into angel of light “ thus, it is commitment. It should be the tried incumbent upon us regular and on the height of the struggle for illuminates every corners of the and proven who is privileged to worthy mason to be steadfast in our intellectual independence during the human mind. receive it. However, due to personal obligation to guard our hollowed renaissance period it was discovered motive of some brethren whose eyes portal from unworthy, and likewise that the spectrum of light is made up During degree conferral, a candidate were blinded by glitters of earthly we should be always vigilant to of eight (8) colors by Isaac Newton, is in the journey of seeking further wealth and conceived personal gains keep our hearts and minds from the Father of Classical Physics. Then light, a kind of light that Mason’s have failed to guard the west gate, baneful wickedness permeated by lately, it was found out that light believed can never be found in the thus, many unworthy have entered in our brothers who are indeed failed has a dual nature depending on temporal realm of this world, but the hallowed ground of the masonic to be enlightened the medium it was passing through, rather in the thorough contemplation 12 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 13 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 MW Suan leads N. Ecija brethren in cornerstone- laying rites

above and below: the brethren of san leonardo masonic lodge no. 386 were happy when the grand master, mw bro. agapito s. suan, jr. led the cornerstone-laying of their upcoming masonic home.

Last February 26, 2020, the Grand Master, MW Agapito S. Suan, Jr., led the brethren of San Leonardo Masonic Lodge No. 386 of San Leonardo, in the Cornerstone-Laying Rites of their new home. Aside from the Grand Master’s entourage, also in attendance was MW Bro. Juanito P. Abergas, PGM who was born in the said town. He is also an honorary member of the lodge.

14 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 15 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 Before joining the Masonic formally put them all in writing. which is like the appendix for your Contacting your Lodge Fraternity, you were asked whether Doing so will also ease the stress of Will, containing informal directives you had already made adequate your beloved family, when a number that clarify aspects such as the Widows and orphans oftentimes provisions for your family in of difficult decisions have to be made, location of important documents, have no idea what to do or who to case of your death. Therefore, the during that very painful eventuality bank accounts, investment papers, notify in the event of your death. making of a Last Will & Testament in their lives – mourning over your memorial plans, insurance policies, One of the first things they should is an experience familiar to many passing, recurring bills, passwords to online actually do is to inform your Lodge Masons. Although the purpose was accounts, and the like. It should also because it is possible that your supposedly philosophical in nature, A typical Last Will & Testament contain your updated vital statistics lawyer, banker, and accountant are this article is more on the functional mainly contains details on for a ready and hassle-free reference, also members of the same Lodge and practical use to you as a man bequeathing your assets and especially when applying for your and may readily offer your family and Mason. If you worry that your expressing your last wishes, although Death Certificate, where certain fill- much needed assistance, perhaps in last wishes and instructions would the details of the latter are elaborated out forms require such details. Other terms of expediting paper works and be neglected, disregarded, or even optionally on a separate document directives include guardianship the like. Your Will should therefore forgotten, then it is high time to called a Letter of Instructions, of children, organizations to be include in its Letter of Instructions notified, personal messages tospecific directions to call a particular friends and family, etc. person or phone number to announce your recent passing to the It is best at this point to rest of the Masonic community. It is professionally consult your lawyer always a good idea to include more in order to ensure that your Will than just one contact person and to becomes legally binding. Philippine likewise provide each of them a copy laws require certain formalities on of your Will while you are still alive. the preparation and execution of This would make things easier for notarized Wills so as not to render your Lodge officers as well. them invalid. Note, however, that a non-notarized Will, even that which Masonic Funeral does not follow any legal format, can still be made valid as a Holographic As a Mason, you are entitled to a Will, provided it is entirely written, Masonic Funeral service during your dated, and signed by the testator’s wake or interment, but not without own handwriting. the permission and consent of your immediate family. You should Of Masonic Let us now proceed to preparing therefore specify in your Will if you a Masonic Last Will & Testament, desire to have such service given to which is actually the same as any your remains. It is important to note, Wills other Will, but with added clauses though, that your family should specific to your Masonic life. The also be informed that a Masonic Condensed from a Far Eastern Freemason article entitled, following will guide you in making Funeral service could be viewed “How to Prepare your own Masonic Last Will & Testament” those additions and appendices. by some religious denominations 16 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 17 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 as having conflicts with theirs and obituary and headstone. meticulous on the bequeathal of • I desire that should I die, that there’s a possibility that your their deceased member’s 14th degree it is my wish to be buried church or congregation could Masonic Inheritance and 33rd degree rings, which can be according to the Rites of the withhold performing its last rites on entrusted to anyone but never to be Roman Catholic Church if your remains upon learning of your The giving away of your Masonic worn unless also a member of the permitted, with Masonic Masonic association. If you sense belongings such as rings, pins, Rite. Funeral service given by any indication whatsoever that this aprons, jewels, and ritual books, the Lodge of which I am a could happen in your case, then should be one of the main inclusions Drafting Your Own member, and interred at our perhaps it is best not to request for of your Masonic Will. If you likewise family mausoleum in Manila, a Masonic Funeral, after all, in order own Masonic books and other There was once a locally-available Philippines; to spare your family the trauma, collectibles, you may specify to product called Masonic Planner, frustration and humiliation that have them donated, perhaps to your which had its own built-in Masonic • To my beloved wife, Minerva such a public denial could cause Lodge library where they would Last Will & Testament, complete Santos, I give and bequeath them, more so during their time of be kept and treasured in the same with supplemental forms for the following property to wit grief. Remember that the welfare of manner you did. Alternatively, you listing Masonic Records, Letter [enumerate here]; your family is your foremost concern may decide to have them sold or of Instructions, and Last Wishes. and should supersede all others. auctioned among Brother Masons, Unfortunately the said product went • To my esteemed and only with specific instructions of using out of print. However, based on child, Amanda Santos, I give Personal Masonic Record the proceeds for the benefit of your the guides provided in this article, and bequeath the following bereaved family. Just remember that, you can now come up with your properties to wit: [enumerate It is possible that your Brethren however you wish to dispose of your own customized Masonic Will. here]; may want to pay tribute to your Masonic heirlooms, it is important The following is an example of how legacy by highlighting your Masonic to state them clearly in your Will, for one can be modeled into a legal • To my mother Lodge achievements. In is therefore handy it would be unfortunate if such items or Notarial Will that conforms to [state name, number, and to always have an updated list of your would end up neglected somewhere Philippine standards. jurisdiction] I entrust the Masonic autobiographical portfolio or sold to strangers for far less than safekeeping of the following attached to your Will. Such list what they are really worth, whether I, Juan Santos, Filipino citizen, of my Masonic belongings would include the dates when you intrinsically or sentimentally. of legal age, married to Minerva [enumerate here and were initiated, passed, and raised, the Santos, born on the 26th day state their corresponding Lodges and other Masonic bodies It is worth mentioning at this point of January 1971, a resident of locations]; to which you belong, and your that although the Blue Lodge and Ermita, Manila, being of sound designation in such bodies. Always most other appendant organizations and disposing mind and memory, • I hereby designate Jessie include specifics such as exact dates, are not too keen on the bequeathal and not acting under undue Aguas the Executor and names, ranks, degrees, and awards. of your Masonic belongings, such is influence or intimidation from Administrator of this Last If properly presented, such a list not the case with the Scottish Rite, anyone, do hereby declare and Will & Testament, and in can be a source of great inspiration, where strict instructions are given to proclaim this instrument to be my his incapacity, I name and pride, and healing for your Brethren, the family of its members to return Last Will & Testament, in English, designate Arthur Lauria as his friends, and family. It could also be their ritual books to the Supreme the language which I am well substitute; a great resource for those drafting Council upon the death of the conversant; and I hereby declare your eulogy or preparing your owner. The Scottish Rite is likewise that: • I hereby direct that the 18 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 19 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 Executor and Administrator jurisdiction] and, if deemed beloved parents, Jose Santos difficulty. of this Last Will & Testament, necessary, to be auctioned and Maria Santos, who all or his substitute, need not among Brethren, so that any equally love her as I do; and Try outlining your own initial draft. present any bond; money made may be used to that circumstances must not You will be surprised at how easily aid and assist my bereaved deny each of them that shared it can be organized, and how the • I hereby revoke, set aside, family. custody and care at any time experience can somehow recreate and annul any and all of my whenever requested to the that intended initiatic experience other Will(s) or testamentary • It is my wish that, upon other. in Masonry, when you were asked dispositions made, executed, my death, interment and if you had already made adequate signed or published preceding memorial services be made • Finally, it is my wish that my provisions for your family in case of this Last Will & Testament. in accordance to the will and beloved daughter, Amanda your death, helping you discover and pleasure of my family, which Santos, finishes her formal realize the things that truly matter in Another working example of a includes primarily my wife, Masonic Will is the following. child, father, and mother; Even if not notarized, it can still that my remains be clad The giving away of your Masonic belongings be considered legally valid as a with my Masonic Lambskin Holographic Will, as long as it is Apron and given the humble such as rings, pins, aprons, jewels, and ritual handwritten in full, duly dated, and honor of Masonic Funeral personally signed by the testator. Rites by the Lodge and other books, should be one of the main inclusions of Masonic bodies to which your Masonic Will. If you likewise own Masonic In the Name of God, Amen! I belong; that my earthly I, Juan Santos, being of sound remains be not cremated, books and other collectibles, you may specify mind and memory, but knowing but rather entombed above the uncertainty of human life, ground, and properly sealed to have them donated, perhaps to your Lodge do now make and publish in my from violating forces; that I library where they would be kept and treasured own handwriting, my Last Will & be given my Last Sacraments Testament, that is to say: as permitted by the Roman in the same manner you did. Catholic Church to which I • I hereby declare that, upon had been baptized. and higher education; that your life, thus ultimately improving my death, all my properties she be granted and accorded how you live and making you a currently named or may be • Furthermore, it is my wish personal care and physical better man. In addition, the making named under me and my that, the custody of my one protection by my Masonic of a Masonic Last Will & Testament possession shall be distributed and only child, my beloved Brothers wherever located, so is practically an obligation, enabling to my wife, Minerva Santos daughter, Amanda Santos, that her honor and chastity you to better support your family and to my only child, if still not of legal age upon be not violated; and that even beyond your own death. Let Amanda Santos, share and my death, be entrusted to such care and protection be it therefore become your Masonic share alike; that my Masonic the care and guardianship of likewise given to her future legacy to make such plans and belongings be donated to the my beloved wife, Minerva children and children’s preparations – all for the love and custody of my mother Lodge Santos; that such custody children, most especially in benefit of your would-be widow [state name, number, and and care be shared with my times of distress and financial and orphans. 20 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 21 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020

the grand master, mw bro. agapito s. suan, jr. experienced the traditional “putungan” or crowning of island guests. beside him is bro. tonton uy, m.d., incumbent mayor of sta. ana, marinduque.

marooned with the grand master in marinduque: (clockwise from top left) mw bro. agapito s. suan, jr. together with his entourage,visited the various spots in the island on the occasion of his visit during moriones lodge no. 399 installation last march 9, 2020.

MW Suan visits the land of the Moriones

22 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 23 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020

PANGARAP LODGE no. 448 MW Suan grace MARCH 12, 2020 j. abad santos HALL, blue lodge plaridel masonic TEMPLE, installations MANILA

don antonio cosin LODGE no. 303 february 29, 2020 macajalar masonic temple, de oro city MASONIC installations, OFTEN held in public view, SOMETIMES INVITE the Grand Master as Guest of Honor and Speaker. HERE ARe some of the RECENT installations that MW Bro. Agapito S. Suan, Jr. have attended.

LABONG LODGE no. 59 NASUGBU LODGE NO. 407 february 14, 2020 MARCH 7, 2020 j. abad santos HALL, BATANGAS CITY CONVENTION plaridel masonic TEMPLE, CENTER MANILA BATANGAS CITY, BATANGAS

24 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 25 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Grand Master’s Visitors

IMPERIAL POTENTATE - JANUARY 25, 2020 TOGETHER BRETHREN: last January 4, 2020, THE BRETHREN OF Naga City TOGETHER WITH Demolays from the Bicol Chapter and THE Job’S DAUGHTERS of Bethel NO. 31 JOINED WITH THE REST OF THE BICOLANOS IN THE 123rd year Commemoration of the martyrdom of the 15 Bicol Martyrs IN Naga City. THE Quince Martirez del Bicolandia were Filipino patriots in Bicol who were executed by firing squad on January 4, 1897 for cooperating with the Katipunan during the Philippine Revolution against Spain. Eight of the 15 Bicol martyrs were Freemasons. Bicol Masonic Community join Quince Martirez Del JOB’S DAUGHTERS BETHEL NO. 2 - FEBRUARY 7, 2020 Bicolandia rites

VALENZUELA CITY LODGE, U.D. - FEBRUARY 7, 2020 PHOTOS COURTESY OF POLICE STATION 2, NAGA CPO FB PAGE 2, NAGA OF POLICE STATION COURTESY PHOTOS 26 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 27 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 Master Christian C. Rosenstock constituted the lodge after which the officers were installed. The ceremonies took place in Paniqui. They were in Public and attendance was large. In January 1926, the meeting place of Isagani Lodge No. 96 was transferred from Paniqui to Moncada, . A suitable building near the railroad station was secured for this purpose. In the middle of 1937, Isagani Lodge No. 96 transferred its stated meetings to Tarlac, Tarlac. It was also during this year under Worshipful Master Francisco M. Alejo, that the Isagani The BRETHREN OF ISAGANI LODGE NO. 96 of TARLAC POSES BEFORE THIEIR Masonic Temple was constructed to TEMPLE DURING EARLY TIMES. its present site. The lot was donated a news item PUBLISHED IN SPANISH by the late General Servillano Aquino FEATURING THE constitution of of the defunct La Regeneracion. Towards a century of Tarlac Freemasonry ISAGANI LODGE NO. 96. In 1974, the members had to tear down their dilapidated Temple and facilities to become an icon for a Isagani Lodge No. 96 construct a new one. Construction Masonic charity center of the region. By VW Bro. Anthony Tan, PDGL started under the term of Worhsipful In the year 2012 under the leadership Master Miguel Fontanilla, with of WB Tsoi Tin Chu, Isagani Lodge he lodge was named after new Lodge are 14 Master Masons the concerted efforts of the lodge Masonic Temple undergoes another the poet ISAGANI, a all of La Regeneracion Lodge No. members notably the so-called major improvements of its façade. “Magnificent 11”, composed of character in Jose P. Rizal’s 36, Tarlac, Tarlac led by Sisenando Through the years, Isagani Lodge brothers Cosmo P. Antonio, Jose Y. novel, “El Filibusterismo”. Palarca, Roman Domantay, No. 96 has been engaged in Chua, Benjamin G. Chua, Benigno TheT name initially chosen for the Procorpio Espiritu, Jose E. Licup, charitable and benevolent activities. Ng Chua, Co Ting Chu, Juan Chia, lodge by the organizers was “Central Sixto Guiang, Esteban Alberto, Juan In 1986, it started its Scholarship Benito Chua, Po Kim Hong, Que Luzon”, it being located in Tarlac Obillo, Eliseo Marques, Francisco Program, and in 1995, it launched Teng, Que Kang, and Chua Giok. which is a part of , Urrutia, Francisco F. Blanco, its annual medical and dental The new Temple was consecrated however, due to unknown reason, Arcadio Evangelista, Silvino Isla, outreach program for the depressed on April 5, 1975, it was also during they finally settled to name it Luis Morales and Go Chuy King. communities of Tarlac Province this year that the Lodge organized “ISAGANI”. and other towns of neighboring On January 27, 1925, having the Tarlac Chapter of the Order of provinces. Coincidentally, it was Under date of May 07, 1924, Grand complied with all the requirements De Molay. For more than 3 decades, also during the same year that the Master Wenceslao Trinidad signed a of the Grand Lodge, the lodge was it was only in the early years of the lodge conferred unto VW Cosmo P. dispensation to form and open a new a granted a charter, but under the new millennium that Isagani Lodge Antonio, the “Hiram Award”, which Lodge, Central Luzon U.D in the name Isagani Lodge No. 96. Masonic Temple was rehabilitated. is the highest award a Blue Lodge municipality of Paniqui, Province At present, the temple still undergoes can confer to anyone. Isagani Lodge of Tarlac. The founders of this On April 18, 1925, at 8:00 pm, Grand major improvements for the temple’s 28 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 29 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 good men better in our district obligated with our foundation of values of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth and ever remembering that there should always be Faith, Hope and Charity in all our endeavors, the members are joined together in serving our community for a more progressive and developed nation towards the next century.

THE HISTORIC ISAGANI LODGE NO. 96 MASONIC TEMPLE.

No. 96 never fails to extend a helping the lodge. During the Year 2001- hand to victims of calamities, like 2004, Reforms were initiated and the great floods that swept Central implemented by 4 energetic Masters Luzon in 1972, and the eruption of namely VW Jaisu Mariposa, PDGL, Mt. Pinatubo in 1991. During the VW Christopher Florencio Gococo, from its humble beginnings as typhoon season of 2009, our country PJGL, VW Armando T. Uy, PDDGM lodge house, a modern multi- experienced two unusual weather and VW Andy T. Po, PDDGM which level building now houses disturbances namely Typhoon brought back Isagani Lodge No. 96 The official centennary logo of isagani lodge no. 96, f. & a.m. and Ondoy and Typhoon Pepeng to its glory days. As Isagani Masonic isagani lodge no. 96, f. & a.m. its brethren. whereby putting the entire nation Lodge No. 96 continuously makes under a state of calamity which caused millions of Filipinos to lose their homes and livelihood due to heavy rains and flooding. Province of Tarlac was spared with these two destructive typhoons which called the members of Isagani Lodge no. 96 to carry out numerous relief operations for the province of Tarlac and for the more severely affected provinces of Pampanga, and Rizal. a news item in the june 1924 issue of the cable tow announcing the Isagani Lodge No. 96 main existence institution of ISAGANI LODGE NO. today relies on the support of its 96 during the term of then grand The brethren of isagani lodge no. 96, f. & a.m. of present day with the members and wisdom of its Past master, mw bro. wenceslao senior grand warden of the grand lodge of the philippines, rw bro. Masters and Senior members of trinidad. johnny t. pimentel. 30 Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason Charity & Humility: Foundations of a True Mason 31 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 The Cable Tow Vol. 96, No. 5 Mar 2020 -Apr 2020 country, the local government attempted to counter the threat by imposing a lockdown or quarantine on Metro Manila, and eventually the whole of Luzon, causing many people to go on panic-buying. Supplies of facemasks and alcohols became Masonry In The Time Of scarce. And despite the lockdown, reports of new cases and deaths The Coronavirus kept rising, possibly attributed to the fact that travelers from China SUMMARY OF THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2020 were still permitted entry in the By Philippines, for political reasons, Bro. Giovanni A. Villegas and that some infected people were his is a chronicle of crisis turn for the worse, let the BRO. GREG MACASAET iii WAS ONE actually asymptomatic and therefore progress and impact of the following logs serve as a reference OF THE FIRST MEDICAL FRONTLINERS undetected, thus further spreading Coronavirus (COVID-19) for future generation of surviving WHO FELL PREY TO COVID-19. the virus unaware. News also started Toutbreak in the Masonic community Masons on what went on during these neighboring countries. By the end to appear that the virus might as the events unfold – a global crisis very trying times in the history of our of February, the virus had already actually have been airborne, though unprecedented since World War II. Fraternity and of the whole world. infected thousands across Asia and still unconfirmed. In this age of fake It is now March 17, 2020 as I write Europe. , on March 11, news, it becomes hard to identify this down. If you are reading this at It all began New Year’s Day of 2020, 2020, declared the new outbreak to be which news are real and which are a much later date, there’s a chance when a rapid spread of pneumonia a global pandemic, with China, Iran, not. This chronicle therefore will not I may have already contracted the was already causing alar