Balagtasan -- Lalaki o Babae: Sino ang mas Malakas?

Lalaki o Babae: Sino ang mas Malakas?

LAKANDIWA:

Magandang umaga sa inyong lahat!

Sa araw na ito’y tatlo kami, sa inyo ay haharap.

Ako, na inyong magiting na lakandiwa

At ang kasama ko pang dalawa.

Ang isa ay babaeng manunula.

At ang isa nama’y lalaking makata.

Kapuwa nilang itatangging sila’y mahina

Bagkus mga kalakasan, kanilang iwiwika.

Isa-isa natin silang kilalanin at kilatisin

Kaya masigabong palakpakan, sila ay salubungin.

BABAE:

Hello! Kumusta kayo, mga Mare!

Ako nga pala ang hindi ordinaryong babae

Dahil kakayahan ko ay napakarami,

Kasingdami ng chicks ng inyong mga kumpare.

At hindi lang iyon, ako’y katangi-tangi

Sapagkat matris ko’y kayang magparami ng lahi

Hindi katulad ng aking katunggali

Lalaki ngang naturingan, hindi naman responsible.

LALAKI:

Sandali! Sandali, magandang binibini

Sirang-sira na ako kahit wala pa akong sinasabi

Ganyan ba talaga ang iyong… inyong ugali?

Totoo naman ang iyong mga sinabi,

Na kakayahan mo ay napakarami…

Ang tanong… kasama ba ang pagiging Marites at judgmental?

Ooops! Huwag mo nang sagutin dahil isa lang ang sumatotal…

Palagi namang tama kayong mga babae,

At kaming mga lalaki naman ang palaging mali.

BABAE:

Tama! Tama! Kami naman talaga ang tama.

Wala naman kayong ginawang tama!

Kapakanan lang ninyo ang iniisip ninyo

Nagbibisyo kayo! Nambabae kayo!

Madalas, kaming babae ang biktima ninyo.

Hindi kayo marunong makuntento.

Malaking porsyento sa inyo ang madalas matukso.

LALAKI:

Andami mong sinabi, mali naman.

Mahihihina talaga kayong kababaihan

Hindi nag-iisip bago ang mga salita ay bitawan.

Tukso? Kami pa ngayon ang madalas matukso?

Sigurado na ba kayo?

Nais ko lamang ipaalala sa inyo,

Na si Eba ang unang kumagat ng mansanas

Sino ang nagpatalo sa panunukso ng ahas?

Kayong mga babae ay sadyang mahihina

Sa tukso, kayo’y mabilis na nahahalina

Kaya paratang ninyo sa amin, aking tinutulan

Sapagkat mas maraming matitinong kalalakihan.

BABAE:

Talaga ba, Ginoo? Ikaw yata ay nahihibang

Kung iisa-isahin ko, isang araw ay kulang 

Upang masasamang gawain niyo’y mabunyag

Tandaan ninyo, kababaihan ay hindi mga bulag

Instinct namin ay hindi kailanman pumapaltos

Pang-amoy nami’y daig pa ang sniffing dog

Kaya kahit hindi kayo umamin, alam na namin.

LALAKI:

Hindi totoo iyan, mahal kong mga babae

Hindi lahat ng lalaki, ganiyan ang ugali

Oo, may iilang kagaya ng iyong sinasabi,

Pero huwag mong lahatin at huwag mo na akong isali.

BABAE:

Hoy, lalaki! Ikaw at sampu ang iyong kauri,

Ito ang tandaan mo— mahina man kami—

Sa pisikal, oo, pero sa intelektwal ay hindi

Hindi mo ako mabibilog

Hindi mo ako maitataob.

LALAKI:

Wala naman akong planong gawin iyan

Sapagkat minamahal ko ang kababaihan

Itinataas, dinadakila, at sinusuportahan

Saka inuunawa ang mga kahinaan.

BABAE:

Hoy! Isang ulit pa na ang salitang iyan ay marinig ko

Titirisin na kita, gaya ng mga kutong uhaw sa dugo.

LAKANDIWA:

Teka! Saglit lang! Kalma lang…

Bawal dito ang sakitan

Ikaw, babae, manatili sa kahinahunan

At ikaw naman lalaki, salitang iyan ay iwasan.

Mga babae ay hindi mahihina—

Matatag sila. Malalakas sila. 

LALAKI: 

Lalaki ka ngang talaga, aming lakandiwa.

Tama ang iyong tinuran na malalakas sila

Oo, malalakas silang kumuda---

Kaya nga, pakikinig sa kanila’y nakakasawa.

BABAE: 

Hayan! Hayan! Ang isda, sa bibig nahuhuli

Nagsasawa na kayo sa iisang putahe.

Ang paulit-ulit na ulam ay nakakasawa nga naman

Kaya tumitikim ng ibang katawan, este ng ibang laman.

LALAKI:

Siyempre, nakakasawa naman talaga

Kung ang ulam ay palagi na lang nilaga

Minsan, masarap ang kare-kare o mechado

Minsan, trip namin ang afritada at igado.

BABAE:

Minsan naman adobo ang gusto ninyo

Hindi na talaga kayo makuntento!

LALAKI:

Natural! Ayaw naming palaging adobo

Dahil ang adobo ay katulad ninyo---

Na madalas ay may toyo.

BABAE:

Naku! Nanggigil na ako sa ‘yo!

Kapag ako ay tinoyo ngayon, sigurado…

LAKANDIWA: 

Ooops! Bago mauwi sa hiwalayan, este sa away

Nais ko nang putulin ang balagtasan nang matiwasay

Ayaw kong sa dalawang ito ako ay madamay

Kaya, kayong madla na ang humusga kung sino ang pasaway

Este kung sino sa kanilang dalawa ang inyong papanigan—

Ang kababaihan ba o ang kalalakihan.

Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat!

Nawa’y may napulot kayong aral sa kanilang mga banat. 

BABAE: 

Sandaaaali! Bakit ka ba nagmamadali?

Porke’t lalaki ka, sa kaniya ka kumakampi

Hindi pa tapos ang aming pagtutunggali.

Hindi pa nga umiinit ang aming debate.

LALAKI: 

Hindi ko kailangang magpakampi, Binibini

Malakas ako, katulad ng karamihang lalaki

Sa mga pagsubok hindi basta-basta tumitiklop

Sa puso at isipan ko, walang lugar ang takot. 

Kaya kung nais mo itong ituloy, hindi ako uurong

Ladies first. Tumalak ka na o kaya’y magtanong.

BABAE: 

Talaga! Kaming mga babae ang dapat nauuna

At wala na dapat pumapangalawa at umeeksena.

LALAKI:

Hayan ka na naman… Kung ano-ano ang tinatalakay

Tumbukin mo na ang iyong argumento at iyong pakay

Ang pagiging paligoy-ligoy ninyo ay isang kahinaan

Oras ay talagang naaaksaya dahil sa inyong kadaldalan. 

BABAE:

Bubuntalin na talaga kita. Hindi kami mahihina

Oo, noong sinakop tayo ng mga banyaga

Mga babaeng katulad ko ang madalas nilang biktima

Hindi lang iyon, hindi pa kami lubos na malaya

Kinahon ninyo kami sa tahanan bilang ina, asawa

Limitadong papel ang aming ginampanan at nakuha

Pero ngayon, kami ngayon ay bumabangon na

Salamat kina Tandang Sora, Gabriela, at iba pa

Hindi na kami paaapi, palulupig nang basta-basta

Maaari niyo na kaming isabak ngayon sa giyera.

LALAKI:

Kahanga-hanga naman talaga ang inyong halaga

Sa anomang larangan, kayo ay namamayagpag talaga

Subalit, ako ay may naalala, sana ay iyo ring naaalala

Noong dekada otsenta, namayagpag kayong mga Eba

Tutal naman nabanggit mo ang mga banyaga

Na sumakop at nagpahirap noon sa ating bansa

Kaya aking itutuloy, at ako ay may itatanong

Huwag mo sanang itanggi, at huwag kang uurong.

BABAE: 

Sige! Ngayon pa ba ako uurong?

Bakit hindi mo na itanong?

LALAKI:

Okey! Noong 80’s nauso ang mga Japayuki

Kahinaan ba iyon o kalakasan ninyong mga babae?

BABAE:

Huh? Itinatanong mo ba iyan bilang insulto?

O nais mo lang na ang paksa ay iliko?

LALAKI:

Wala kayong inuurungan, iyan ang sinabi mo

Kaya anoman ang layunin ko, sagutin mo ako.

BABAE:

Oo na! Marami noon ang sumubok sa Japan

Subalit wala kang karapatang sila ay husgahan

Ang pagiging Japayuki ay marangal na trabaho

Malay mo, Japayuki rin pala dati ang lola mo

Kahanga-hanga silang mga nakaranas niyon

Maituturing na katapangan at kalakasan iyon

Sapagkat ang mangibang-bansa ay hindi palaging paldo

Hindi palaging tagumpay, marami rin ang nabibigo.

LALAKI:

Totoo naman iyan. Ako ay sumasang-ayon sa iyo

Kaya nga dapat kayong mga babae-- pambahay lang kayo

Kasi ang mga babaeng OFW ay madalas maabuso

Nagpapakita kasi kayo roon ng kahinaan ninyo

Kaya sa halip na magtagumpay, nabibigo sa buhay

Mabuti na lang, kaming lalaki ang inyong karamay.

BABAE:

Asus! Huwag mo akong daanin sa ganyan

Wala ka namang pinanghahawakang katibayan

Na ang mga babae ay madalas na masadlak sa kabiguan

Kahit sino sa atin ay maaari iyang pagdaanan

Ang kababaihan ay tunay na may katatagan

Sa pagbubuntis pa lang, tapos na ang laban.

Kaya ba ninyong magdala ng sanggol sa sinapupunan?

Kayo ba ninyong lumobo ang tiyan nang siyam na buwan?

Minsan nga, hindi niyo pa maibigay ang aming pinaglilihian.

At minsan pa nga, hindi niyo kami maunawaan

Habang namimilipit kami sa sakit dahil sa dalaw na buwanan

Hindi niyo talaga kami maiintindihan

Hanggang ang tingin ninyo sa amin ay isang parausan

Hanggang ang papel namin ay tao-tauhan

At hanggang ang halaga namin ay gaya ng basahan.

Hindi talaga ninyo makikita ang aming kalakasan

Hanggang hindi ninyo tinatanggap ang inyong kahinaan

Hindi talaga ninyo aaming, minsan, mahina rin kayo

Dahil kayo—kayong mga lalaki—ay sadyang machismo

Feeling malakas, feeling matatag, feeling macho

Tingnan niyo naman kami hindi lamang bilang babae

Tingnan ninyo kami-- bilang tao na may maibabahagi

Sa mundo ng mga lalaki, kaya rin naming maghari.

LALAKI:

Kanina, tanggap ko na-- kami talaga ang mali

Kaya, sige, sa mundo kayo na sana ang maghari

Nang matigil na ang pagigiyera ng mga pinunong lalaki

Sa tingin ko, digmaan ay hindi ninyo ipinagmamalaki

Kaya, sige, mga kamay ko’y itataas, noo’y aking iyuyuko

Paghanga ko sa kababaihan, mag-uumapaw pa lalo

Ang ating pamayanan, bansa, kahit pa buong mundo

Ay kaya ninyong pamunuan nang mahusay at matino

Kaya ngayong araw, idinideklara ko ang aking pagsuko

Mga babae, hindi kayo mahihina… malalakas kayo

Katulad namin kayo--- malakas, matalino, may puso.

Happy Women’s Month sa inyo!

LAKANDIWA:

Hayan! Natutuwa ako kayo ay nagkasundo

Kahanga-hanga ang iyong pagsuko, Ginoo

Tandaan mo, hindi kahinaan ang pagsuko

Kaya tanggapin mo ang aking pagsaludo.

At sa iyo rin, binibini, paghanga ko’y sumasaiyo

At sa lahat ng mga babaeng narito---

Maraming salamat dahil binubuo ninyo ang ating mundo.

Mabuhay kayo!

Lalaki o Babae: Sino ang mas Malakas?

LAKANDIWA:

Magandang umaga sa inyong lahat!

Sa araw na ito’y tatlo kami, sa inyo ay haharap.

Ako, na inyong magiting na lakandiwa

At ang kasama ko pang dalawa.

Ang isa ay babaeng manunula.

At ang isa nama’y lalaking makata.

Kapuwa nilang itatangging sila’y mahina

Bagkus mga kalakasan, kanilang iwiwika.

Isa-isa natin silang kilalanin at kilatisin

Kaya masigabong palakpakan, sila ay salubungin.

BABAE:

Hello! Kumusta kayo, mga Mare!

Ako nga pala ang hindi ordinaryong babae

Dahil kakayahan ko ay napakarami,

Kasingdami ng chicks ng inyong mga kumpare.

At hindi lang iyon, ako’y katangi-tangi

Sapagkat matris ko’y kayang magparami ng lahi

Hindi katulad ng aking katunggali

Lalaki ngang naturingan, hindi naman responsible.

LALAKI:

Sandali! Sandali, magandang binibini

Sirang-sira na ako kahit wala pa akong sinasabi

Ganyan ba talaga ang iyong… inyong ugali?

Totoo naman ang iyong mga sinabi,

Na kakayahan mo ay napakarami…

Ang tanong… kasama ba ang pagiging Marites at judgmental?

Ooops! Huwag mo nang sagutin dahil isa lang ang sumatotal…

Palagi namang tama kayong mga babae,

At kaming mga lalaki naman ang palaging mali.

BABAE:

Tama! Tama! Kami naman talaga ang tama.

Wala naman kayong ginawang tama!

Kapakanan lang ninyo ang iniisip ninyo

Nagbibisyo kayo! Nambabae kayo!

Madalas, kaming babae ang biktima ninyo.

Hindi kayo marunong makuntento.

Malaking porsyento sa inyo ang madalas matukso.

LALAKI:

Andami mong sinabi, mali naman.

Mahihihina talaga kayong kababaihan

Hindi nag-iisip bago ang mga salita ay bitawan.

Tukso? Kami pa ngayon ang madalas matukso?

Sigurado na ba kayo?

Nais ko lamang ipaalala sa inyo,

Na si Eba ang unang kumagat ng mansanas

Sino ang nagpatalo sa panunukso ng ahas?

Kayong mga babae ay sadyang mahihina

Sa tukso, kayo’y mabilis na nahahalina

Kaya paratang ninyo sa amin, aking tinutulan

Sapagkat mas maraming matitinong kalalakihan.

BABAE:

Talaga ba, Ginoo? Ikaw yata ay nahihibang

Kung iisa-isahin ko, isang araw ay kulang 

Upang masasamang gawain niyo’y mabunyag

Tandaan ninyo, kababaihan ay hindi mga bulag

Instinct namin ay hindi kailanman pumapaltos

Pang-amoy nami’y daig pa ang sniffing dog

Kaya kahit hindi kayo umamin, alam na namin.

LALAKI:

Hindi totoo iyan, mahal kong mga babae

Hindi lahat ng lalaki, ganiyan ang ugali

Oo, may iilang kagaya ng iyong sinasabi,

Pero huwag mong lahatin at huwag mo na akong isali.

BABAE:

Hoy, lalaki! Ikaw at sampu ang iyong kauri,

Ito ang tandaan mo— mahina man kami—

Sa pisikal, oo, pero sa intelektwal ay hindi

Hindi mo ako mabibilog

Hindi mo ako maitataob.

LALAKI:

Wala naman akong planong gawin iyan

Sapagkat minamahal ko ang kababaihan

Itinataas, dinadakila, at sinusuportahan

Saka inuunawa ang mga kahinaan.

BABAE:

Hoy! Isang ulit pa na ang salitang iyan ay marinig ko

Titirisin na kita, gaya ng mga kutong uhaw sa dugo.

LAKANDIWA:

Teka! Saglit lang! Kalma lang…

Bawal dito ang sakitan

Ikaw, babae, manatili sa kahinahunan

At ikaw naman lalaki, salitang iyan ay iwasan.

Mga babae ay hindi mahihina—

Matatag sila. Malalakas sila. 

LALAKI: 

Lalaki ka ngang talaga, aming lakandiwa.

Tama ang iyong tinuran na malalakas sila

Oo, malalakas silang kumuda---

Kaya nga, pakikinig sa kanila’y nakakasawa.

BABAE: 

Hayan! Hayan! Ang isda, sa bibig nahuhuli

Nagsasawa na kayo sa iisang putahe.

Ang paulit-ulit na ulam ay nakakasawa nga naman

Kaya tumitikim ng ibang katawan, este ng ibang laman.

LALAKI:

Siyempre, nakakasawa naman talaga

Kung ang ulam ay palagi na lang nilaga

Minsan, masarap ang kare-kare o mechado

Minsan, trip namin ang afritada at igado.

BABAE:

Minsan naman adobo ang gusto ninyo

Hindi na talaga kayo makuntento!

LALAKI:

Natural! Ayaw naming palaging adobo

Dahil ang adobo ay katulad ninyo---

Na madalas ay may toyo.

BABAE:

Naku! Nanggigil na ako sa ‘yo!

Kapag ako ay tinoyo ngayon, sigurado…

LAKANDIWA: 

Ooops! Bago mauwi sa hiwalayan, este sa away

Nais ko nang putulin ang balagtasan nang matiwasay

Ayaw kong sa dalawang ito ako ay madamay

Kaya, kayong madla na ang humusga kung sino ang pasaway

Este kung sino sa kanilang dalawa ang inyong papanigan—

Ang kababaihan ba o ang kalalakihan.

Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat!

Nawa’y may napulot kayong aral sa kanilang mga banat. 

BABAE: 

Sandaaaali! Bakit ka ba nagmamadali?

Porke’t lalaki ka, sa kaniya ka kumakampi

Hindi pa tapos ang aming pagtutunggali.

Hindi pa nga umiinit ang aming debate.

LALAKI: 

Hindi ko kailangang magpakampi, Binibini

Malakas ako, katulad ng karamihang lalaki

Sa mga pagsubok hindi basta-basta tumitiklop

Sa puso at isipan ko, walang lugar ang takot. 

Kaya kung nais mo itong ituloy, hindi ako uurong

Ladies first. Tumalak ka na o kaya’y magtanong.

BABAE: 

Talaga! Kaming mga babae ang dapat nauuna

At wala na dapat pumapangalawa at umeeksena.

LALAKI:

Hayan ka na naman… Kung ano-ano ang tinatalakay

Tumbukin mo na ang iyong argumento at iyong pakay

Ang pagiging paligoy-ligoy ninyo ay isang kahinaan

Oras ay talagang naaaksaya dahil sa inyong kadaldalan. 

BABAE:

Bubuntalin na talaga kita. Hindi kami mahihina

Oo, noong sinakop tayo ng mga banyaga

Mga babaeng katulad ko ang madalas nilang biktima

Hindi lang iyon, hindi pa kami lubos na malaya

Kinahon ninyo kami sa tahanan bilang ina, asawa

Limitadong papel ang aming ginampanan at nakuha

Pero ngayon, kami ngayon ay bumabangon na

Salamat kina Tandang Sora, Gabriela, at iba pa

Hindi na kami paaapi, palulupig nang basta-basta

Maaari niyo na kaming isabak ngayon sa giyera.

LALAKI:

Kahanga-hanga naman talaga ang inyong halaga

Sa anomang larangan, kayo ay namamayagpag talaga

Subalit, ako ay may naalala, sana ay iyo ring naaalala

Noong dekada otsenta, namayagpag kayong mga Eba

Tutal naman nabanggit mo ang mga banyaga

Na sumakop at nagpahirap noon sa ating bansa

Kaya aking itutuloy, at ako ay may itatanong

Huwag mo sanang itanggi, at huwag kang uurong.

BABAE: 

Sige! Ngayon pa ba ako uurong?

Bakit hindi mo na itanong?

LALAKI:

Okey! Noong 80’s nauso ang mga Japayuki

Kahinaan ba iyon o kalakasan ninyong mga babae?

BABAE:

Huh? Itinatanong mo ba iyan bilang insulto?

O nais mo lang na ang paksa ay iliko?

LALAKI:

Wala kayong inuurungan, iyan ang sinabi mo

Kaya anoman ang layunin ko, sagutin mo ako.

BABAE:

Oo na! Marami noon ang sumubok sa Japan

Subalit wala kang karapatang sila ay husgahan

Ang pagiging Japayuki ay marangal na trabaho

Malay mo, Japayuki rin pala dati ang lola mo

Kahanga-hanga silang mga nakaranas niyon

Maituturing na katapangan at kalakasan iyon

Sapagkat ang mangibang-bansa ay hindi palaging paldo

Hindi palaging tagumpay, marami rin ang nabibigo.

LALAKI:

Totoo naman iyan. Ako ay sumasang-ayon sa iyo

Kaya nga dapat kayong mga babae-- pambahay lang kayo

Kasi ang mga babaeng OFW ay madalas maabuso

Nagpapakita kasi kayo roon ng kahinaan ninyo

Kaya sa halip na magtagumpay, nabibigo sa buhay

Mabuti na lang, kaming lalaki ang inyong karamay.

BABAE:

Asus! Huwag mo akong daanin sa ganyan

Wala ka namang pinanghahawakang katibayan

Na ang mga babae ay madalas na masadlak sa kabiguan

Kahit sino sa atin ay maaari iyang pagdaanan

Ang kababaihan ay tunay na may katatagan

Sa pagbubuntis pa lang, tapos na ang laban.

Kaya ba ninyong magdala ng sanggol sa sinapupunan?

Kayo ba ninyong lumobo ang tiyan nang siyam na buwan?

Minsan nga, hindi niyo pa maibigay ang aming pinaglilihian.

At minsan pa nga, hindi niyo kami maunawaan

Habang namimilipit kami sa sakit dahil sa dalaw na buwanan

Hindi niyo talaga kami maiintindihan

Hanggang ang tingin ninyo sa amin ay isang parausan

Hanggang ang papel namin ay tao-tauhan

At hanggang ang halaga namin ay gaya ng basahan.

Hindi talaga ninyo makikita ang aming kalakasan

Hanggang hindi ninyo tinatanggap ang inyong kahinaan

Hindi talaga ninyo aaming, minsan, mahina rin kayo

Dahil kayo—kayong mga lalaki—ay sadyang machismo

Feeling malakas, feeling matatag, feeling macho

Tingnan niyo naman kami hindi lamang bilang babae

Tingnan ninyo kami-- bilang tao na may maibabahagi

Sa mundo ng mga lalaki, kaya rin naming maghari.

LALAKI:

Kanina, tanggap ko na-- kami talaga ang mali

Kaya, sige, sa mundo kayo na sana ang maghari

Nang matigil na ang pagigiyera ng mga pinunong lalaki

Sa tingin ko, digmaan ay hindi ninyo ipinagmamalaki

Kaya, sige, mga kamay ko’y itataas, noo’y aking iyuyuko

Paghanga ko sa kababaihan, mag-uumapaw pa lalo

Ang ating pamayanan, bansa, kahit pa buong mundo

Ay kaya ninyong pamunuan nang mahusay at matino

Kaya ngayong araw, idinideklara ko ang aking pagsuko

Mga babae, hindi kayo mahihina… malalakas kayo

Katulad namin kayo--- malakas, matalino, may puso.

Happy Women’s Month sa inyo!

LAKANDIWA:

Hayan! Natutuwa ako kayo ay nagkasundo

Kahanga-hanga ang iyong pagsuko, Ginoo

Tandaan mo, hindi kahinaan ang pagsuko

Kaya tanggapin mo ang aking pagsaludo.

At sa iyo rin, binibini, paghanga ko’y sumasaiyo

At sa lahat ng mga babaeng narito---

Maraming salamat dahil binubuo ninyo ang ating mundo.

Mabuhay kayo!

My Journal - April 2009

April 1, 2009

At 4:30, I was already wide awake. And at 5:00, Mama and I left the house. It was 6:30 when we arrived at East Avenue Medical Center. We were so early, hence we just waited for so long to be called. It was 10:00 when Mama was first called. But most of the time was waiting.

At 2:00, we left the Eye Center. My number was asked so that we will be notified with the follow-up. There is no good news, except for the tentative schedule of Mama's cornea transplant after Holy Week.

It was past 3:30 when we got home. I was exhausted and sleepy. Thus, I took a nap. And when I got up, I notified Mj and Auntie Vangie. The latter replied late.

Padi Glenn Texted me at past 7:00. He regarded me; thus, I told him my financial problem. Then, he stated that he started training in the rural bank. He also promised to lend me money for my incremental budget in Legazpi.

When the couple arrived, Jano uttered the news. Ate Ginalyn wanted me to work in Eastland, as well. My brother says, "Wag ka na mag-teacher." I did not say "no" or "yes." But I was glad for that opportunity.
:
-1
April 2, 2009

After breakfast, I did some dusting, watering the plants, and sweeping.

At 9:00, I texted Leo and Ate Che. I asked them if they could lend me money. Both did not reply immediately. And Ate Che's reply arrived at 4:00. She said that if Ate Salve would pay her, I would be given by her.

Mj was so 'makulit.' She texted me from time to time. She was implying for my visit. I hated it. I did not reply with some of her messages.

At 2:00, I watched a movie on DVD. I just took a nap for a half hour before I finished it.

I have learned from Mj that her brother had arrived from Bulan, and Ilek and Nicole were with him. I did not commit to visiting them because it would be hard for us to be altogether in a very small house.

April 3, 2009

After treating Mama with breakfast, I lie down again. I tried to sleep, but I failed because Mama and Flor were so noisy.

I prepared my paraphernalia after breakfast. Then, I read my reviewer. I think I was ready for the exams.

At 4:30, I left Bautista.

In my in-law's house, they were watching Nicole's video, where she's giving a speech. I felt envious a bit, but I know Hanna and Zildjian would be academic achievers, like Nicole.

April 4, 2009

At 6:00, I was awakened by the alarm clock's tone. Mj and I got up immediately. She treated me to breakfast. She also packed fried fish and longganisa for my lunch. Good thing, there were leftovers. She did not want me to starve.

At past 6:30, I left Rancho. At past 8:00, I purchased a ticket to Daraga. I saw Pablo on the bus, where I rode in.

The trip was so slow due to the impediments, such as road construction, many vehicles, and so on. I was worried so much that Padi Glenn would wait for so long for my arrival. In fact, he talked to Ate Salve and asked if we could share a house with her, Tina, and Fortin. Ate Salve permitted us.

At 11:00, I was already in Legazpi. They were disturbed by my late arrival. Yet it seemed okay.

I asked God to gave me a tight sleep for tomorrow's exams. I also wished for wisdom and sound mind.

April 5, 2009

At 4:00, we were already awake. We had a hard breakfast. We were done at past 5:00.

Before we left the transient house, Padi Glenn led a prayer. He asked God to give us wisdom and make us pass the licensure examination.

I was very cool at that time. I was very confident that I could make it because I knew it's God's will. However, when we got to our school assignment, I shivered. It must not linger on me; thus, I tried to be calm.

At 6:30, we were filling out PRC's paper. And at 8:00, the examination began. I found General Education hard. But Prof Ed was harder. The questions were situational. They were very far from the questions in my reviewer. They were all confusing. I just took extra care in choosing answers. But almost of my answers were products of so-called educated guess.

Padi Glenn, Tina, and I dined in Jollibee near Divine Word College. I paid for Padi Glenn's food because he also did some of my needs, such as food, coffee, and Lipovitan. He did it while I was on the trip.

At 2;30, Field of Specialization (Business Technology) examinations started. I found it semi-hard. It was due to the presence of computer-related questions, especially those beyond my knowledge. But all in all, I was confident and satisfied in those exams.

I did it early. I just re-read it while waiting for Padi Glenn. I changed some of my answers. I also shaded evenly with my answers.

At 5:00, we were already home. We talked and laughed about what happened during examinations. We all agreed that the LET was very difficult. We doubted ourselves.

At 6:35. We went to Gaisano Mall. We just window-shopped, except Ate Salve. I wanted to but brief, but I was penniless. Instead, I only looked at the prices of different brands.

At 11:00, it was when the lights were turned off. We all fell asleep. Good thing, the owner of the house, I Mean, the dwellers, sleep over to another house. We have privacy.

April 6, 2009

At 6:00, we all got up. And at past 7:00, we left the house to catch the early Queen's Express' trip to Bulan. We were lucky to see immediately the bus at the terminal.

At 8:15, the bus drove forward. Ate Salve shopped first.

Auntie Vangie texted me. It was her reply to my quote I sent her earlier. She asked me my whereabout and about the exams yesterday. I told her that I would be in Bulan first, due to financial shortage. Then I did not keep the truth about the hardship I met in the examination. Yet she was still hopeful and wishful for my success.

It was 11;30 am when I got home. I was starving.

Papay Benson asked about my exams, as well as Aileen and Kuya Jape. But only the former, who was very excited to know the result, asked me if I could pass. He also regarded the garments factory of Espinosa Family and its status, and Tito Sam and Tito Zaldo. But he forgot to regard Mama. It hurts me. She was neglected or forgotten.

After dishwashing, I went upstairs to rest. I took a nap before I took a bath. I just text-conversed with Sharon ang my cousin—Klyn, who also took LET yesterday.

At past 4:00, I was using Aileen's computer. I also watched TV. It was 7:00.

In the dining table, I conversed with Mama Leling. She asked about Mama's status and my recent exams. I never failed from my expectations.

After dishwashing, I spent a few hours from TV-viewing. And at past 8:00, I went upstairs to start catching sleep. However, after a few minutes, Ate Salve texted me. She said that Ate Che was waiting for us tonight for her blowout. It was confirmed by Ate Che herself. Thus, I immediately changed clothes, texted Padi Glenn and left. I however gave respect to Mama Leling.

Padi Glenn replied. He could not join us; I still went on. I knew Ate Salve would be there.

When I got to Ate Che's new house, I mean, for lease house, I congratulated her Grade Six son. Then I met her husband. Minutes later, Ate Salve and her husband arrived.

We dined a healthy 'handa' there. There was wine on the side. It was my first time tasting red wine, which I found bitter. I thought it was sweet and grapey taste.

I joined the four men in drinking Jim Beam, a black label brandy, after taking a cup of wine. However I was out-of-place, and I almost threw up when I tasted the imported liquor. Thus, after 30 minutes of being with them in silence, I left them.

It was not a remarkable night for me. I never felt welcome. But the host and hostess were nice. I just did not know how to belong to myself.

I saw Kuya Bambi in a group of drinkers. I joined them when I confirmed that no one was awake to open the door for me. I did not drink, just listened to them and their conversations.

It was past 12:00 midnight when we went home.

April 7, 2009

Is wept at bit at the 'buladan,' but later on, Aileen implied that I must leave it to the hired sun-driers of 'palay.' I instead helped with other ways.

At 10:00, I cooked. While doing so, I was texting.

After dishwashing, I have learned from Epr that he has been in Sucat recently and he would be back on April 15. I asked why he did not notify me. He did not response about it. I knew he was aloof.

I took a nap after taking a bath. Later I pursued reading my journal dated February 28 to March 30. I also reminisced about the past.

At 5:00, I did marketing. I also did the cooking. It was 6:30 when I finished.

Before I supped, I saved the photos and videos in the digicam of Ate Ningning to Aileen's PC.

At 9:00, I was upstairs. I slept early.

April 8, 2009

At past 6:00, I greeted Daba a 'Happy Birthday!' I expected an invitation from her. However, she told me that she's in Pampanga at that moment. It was okay! There is next time.

I did laundry at 7:00. I finished it at past 8:00.

At 9:00, I went to Papay Benson's 'kamalig' and stayed there until 11:00. I just procrastinated, but I washed the dishes when I got back home.

At 12:30, I was ordered by Ate Ningning to canvass for the freezer's prices. I accomplished it immediately. Thus, I have started cooking biko.' It was 2:30 when I finished.

Minutes later, I borrowed Ate Ningning digicam and did some 'saving' and picture-taking. I also used PC until 5 pm.

Next is watering my bonsai tree and Aileen's plants and helping Ate Ningning cleansing the freezer. I then washed her window grills.

I rested early. It was after I ate dinner.

April 9, 2009

I helped with doing household chores after I had coffee. Then I prepared my stuff. I packed rice and other 'pasalubong.'

Before 9:00, I have done marketing. Before I cooked, I watered the plants that Aileen and I would leave for two weeks.

At 2:00, we left for the bus terminal. I was very disappointed because Papay Benson gave me only P200. But I thanked God instead for I could go back to Antipolo.

At past 3:00, the bus we rode in Moved forward. Ia sked God to guide our way.

Being with Aileen and her two kids was a blessing. I could eat well, unlike when I was all alone.

Our trip was very well. The traffic was favorable.

April 10, 2009

It was past 4:00 am when the Goldline bus arrived in Pasay. Kuya Japi was already there to fetch Aileen. Later he took me to Cubao, where I rode jeepney to Masinag. He gave me P100. He thanked me, as well.

At 6:00, I reached my in-law's house. I have gotten so much 'pasalubong.' So, I was not ashamed to knock on the door.

I slept until nine o' clock and took a nap again after lunch.

At past 7:00, a woman named Let called me. She' Ronas cousin. She's in need of a housemaid. I asked for the qualifications and other important things. I was forced to buy load so I could ask for Ate Salve's recommendation.

After texting Ate Salve, I texted Bernadette and Padi Glenn. They texted me earlier.

I have learned from Padi Glenn that he's going to stay in San Jacinto, Masbate for good on Monday. It is due to the job he accepted in a rural bank. For that, I asked him if I could have the teaching job he was supposed to do if he did not pass in the rural bank. He gave me his brother's numbers.

I texted Sir Randy immediately. His reply was immediate, as well. I have learned that the starting salary is only P3,000. Though the salary is quite disappointing, I still was interested.

After a few exchanges of text messages, Sir Randy promised me help and notice as soon as possible, as he talks to the owner of the school.

Ate Salve promised me, as well, to help me find sa housemaid. I thanked her beforehand.

April 11, 2009

I thought of going to Bautista early, but Mj stopped me. So, I postponed it. Besides, it was very hot outside. It is better if I stay.

Espinosa's residence was full-packed at past 12 noon. Immaculate family was there, too. Though, I still took a nap.

Later I watched my kids on their tantrums.

At 5:00, Mj's effort of postponing my departure failed. Hanna and I left their house. I brought Hanna with me because I have learned from Mj that my in-laws would be in Boso-Boso tomorrow. Zildjian wanted to come with us. He cried and clung to me. Thus, Mj came with us until we got a tricycle ride.

At 5;45, we were already in Bautista. Gie and Courtney were not there. Jano was busy preparing for jamming with Chriz, Tonton, and others in Auntie Belen's unfinished house. He gave me permission to watch DVD. So, I did it at 6:30.

I watched 'High School Musical 3' and 'Hot Rod' consecutively. I also watched 'Juno.'

April 12, 2009

I waited for Mj and my in-laws to arrive. She said they were going to Boso-Boso today, but they did not come.

After lunch, Jano and his visitors—Chriz and Tonton left. We had privacy. We could take a rest and do whatever we want freely.

At 4:00, I swept at the yards. Hanna helped me.

I pitied Hanna because we do not have merienda. I could not even buy her biscuit. She was also asking for milk, but I could not treat her. Our 'baon; is good only for two 'timpla.'

Mama needs milk, as well. The P500 that I borrowed from her was only P200 as of that day, I used up the P300. I did not know how to pay it back.

April 13, 20009

At 7:00, I got up to feed Mama. Later I started doing the laundry. It was before Hanna woke up. At 10:30, I was done it. But there was a hindrance. Hanna must eat breakfast. I spoon-fed her first.

Right after hanging the clothes that I washed, I started cooking. I also watered the plants.

At 4:00, I cleaned the refrigerator, as requested by Jano. I made sure that it was well done. Jano is a meticulous person. He might not like it.

He did not compliment my work when he arrived. Instead, he complained why I did not sauté the sardines in either papaya or camote tops. I kept my silence. But I was very irritated. He did not know that there's no vegetables available.

April 14, 2009

After feeding Mama, I swept in the yard. I was then annoyed by Flor Rhina because she delayed the dishwashing. I just kept my silence.

Then I watered the plants and did some cleaning in the kitchen. Later I went downhill to look for some veggies. I found nothing. I also decided that some other day I would clean under the cashew trees so that I could harvest more.

I cooked early because we only had bread for breakfast. At 11:00, we had our lunch.

Hanna asked for milk again. She also wanted to go home. She says, "Uwi mo na ako kay Mama." I pitied her. So, at 4:00, I gave her boiled monggo. I just put sugar on it. She liked it.

Flor Rhina irked me at past 7:00. It was due to her irresponsibility. I could not hold my temper anymore. Thus, I spoke it out. She was so annoying.

April 15, 2009

I slept back when I got up at 6:00 because I had a sleepless night. However, I have a dream that stayed on my mind. It was about a baby with an unusual face. I knew God did not give us another child.

At past 7:00, I did kitchen work. Later I cooked rice and paksiw na bangus for Mama-and-Flor's lunch.

At 10:00, Hanna and I left Bautista. I would leave Hanna to Mj before I go to East Avenue Medical Center. I just had lunch at my in-law's house.

At past 1:00, I was already at the eye center. And at 2:00, I was given requests for Mama's x-ray, ECG, and lab tests.

On the way to Anonas, I notified Auntie Vangie about the repeat of the tests of Mama. She did not disagree with the idea. She just condemned Jano who did not give even food allowance when Mama and I left the house. I just told her the truth. However, I defended Jano at the end, telling Auntie Vangie the pregnancy of Gie. I implied that it was the reason why Jano did not extend any amount for Mama.

"Sus! Kaya nmn pla... O cge gwn n ung dpat gwin," she says. Then she told me to see her tomorrow at their house.

Before I took a ride to Antipolo, I went to a place in Anona where bonsai trees are so wonderful and numerous. I envied them and craved to have a few of them.

I decided to stay at my in-law's house so that I could save money. Instead of going home to Bautista I preferred to sleep over at Espinosa's residence.

I texted Jano about it. He said, "Okay!" and "Txt u c Auntie." I did not respond to that. I already did.

My head was in terrible pain. It was gone later after I had hot coffee.

Mj confirmed that she has menstrual period today. It means the dream that I had last night was the opposite of reality. I thanked God.

April 16, 2009

Before 6:00, I was already wide-awake. I was still sleepy, but I must leave early so that I could catch Auntie Vangie.

At 6:30, I left Antipolo City. It was 8:00 when I got to Auntie Vangie's house. I waited for a few minutes to her, I just talked to their maids whole anticipating.

It was 8;30 when she and I conversed while having breakfast. Reggie was there, too. We talked about Mama, Jano, and other matters.

At past 9:00, I left their house with P2,500 and groceries for Mama and my kids.

I bought Alaska filled milk worth P250,50 for my kids and vitamins for Mama before I took a ride to Antipolo. I then dropped by at my in-law's house at 11:00 to give the milk, P50 to Mj. Hanna was very happy with the Stik-O that Auntie Vangie gave them. She did not cry when I left. She waved goodbye happily instead.

Mama was eating her lunch when I got home. I gladly related to her my 'lakad.' She was surprised to know that I have been to Tandang Sora. And since Flor Rhina was present, I have not said everything that I wanted to say. It was 5:00 when we talked deeply. We had a nice talk. We also had a connivance for something helpful for every one of us.

April 17, 2009

I had a sleepless night again. I did not know why. I just could not sleep back after I got up to pee. Hot weather and pests (mosquitoes and dog's lice) contributed, as well to this. However, I still managed to get up after Jano left. It was 6:00.

Mama and I left for St. Camillus at 6:30, We were too early. We just waited there for so long.

While waiting, I bought load and texted Taiwan. I asked for financial help. He did not reply.

At past 9:30, Mama has undergone chest X-ray, ECG, and other laboratory tests. We were determined to keep it secret to Jano until Taiwan gives.

Jano did not speak about Mama's needs to be tested. He has been laidback since Auntie Vangie was financing her expenses.

April 18, 2009

After treating Mama breakfast, I did gardenworks. Auntie Lida came over after a while. She was entertained by Mama.

At past 8:00, I went to Veterans and bought groceries and purchased LPG. When I got home, I watched TV. Saturday TV programs were so nice. They made me deep-seated.

I wanted to start cleaning at the 'kasuyan,' but I wanted to do it when Flor Rhina leaves. She did at past 4:30.

At 5:00, I packed and organized Flor's clothes and stuff. It did not annoy me. It instead gladdened me that she has decided to be employed. She would be responsible in life.

Jano did not get home.

I asked God of Mama's total healing.

April 19, 2009

At 6:30, Jano arrived. My sleep was disturbed. I tried to sleep back after Mama and I had breakfast, but I could not sleep. Thus, I washed the dishes instead. And later I went downhill. I cleaned at the 'kasuyan.'

At 10:30, I was preparing our lunch. Later, Klyn, my cute cousin, texted me. After exchanges of regards, I asked her if she could help me find a teaching job at the school where she teaches. It so happened that she was told to look for applicants. I was interested so I asked her a few questions until I ran out of load. I have asked at least the salary. She says, "P5,000, starting" and 'With free boarding house."

I told this news to Mj. I asked her if Tita Lo has printer. If there is, I would be there today. But they do not have.

After lunch, I made a rough draft of my resume, Then, I took a nap at 2:00. I could not sleep well due to Jano. He was awake. He was making noises.

He left at past 4:00. He gave me P100 for water.

At 6:30, I bought load. I later text Klyn. We agreed that she would talk to the school owner first. Thus, I do not have to leave tomorrow.

April 20, 2009

I greeted Padi Glenn minutes after I got up. It's his 28th birthday today. He thanked me.

After breakfast, I started the laundry. It was 'tambak.' Flor Rhina's and Jano's dirty clothes added to it. But it was okay. I was doing it with gladness.

At past 9:30, I did marketing. I was then amid my laundry activities. And at past 10:00, I was done washing. Without resting, I cooked lunch.

At 2:00, I took a nap. But before that I conversed first with Epr via text. He said he was in Sucat to date. He regarded me and I have learned that he was going to look for a job here in the metro. I then wished for our luck.

At 5:30, I was sweeping in the yard. Mama tried to stop me. She said that I need a rest.

Mj texted me this afternoon. In her second text, she says, "Nga pala, pg free k n sau muna c Hnna, hrap pakainin at pa2lugin e. Gs2 puro milk. Ok lng b?"

I knew it was because of Nicole's bullying and tight budget in my in-law's residence. Her reasons were secondary.

I wanted to get her, but it was yet untimely. I explained to Mj that Hanna would not have an attendant when Mama and I left. I promised her that when the cashew starts to produce ripe fruits, I will get her, even the three of them.

Jano told me at 7:00 that if I want to leave Mj can stay here for Mama. I did not say anything. I like it if he says, "Dito muna sina Mj."

April 21, 2009

I was awake when Jano left at six. I tried to sleep again but I failed. I got up at 7 am when Mama rose up. We took hot drink after a while.

Nine, Diyang came over. Mama and I conversed with her. I also showed her my reviewers.

She's still the same. She wanted to know everything about one person. Thus, I kept my feet on the ground.

Past 3 pm, I claimed the x-ray, ECG, and lab test results of Mama at St. Camillus Medical Center. Mama and I agreed upon another lie.

Before six-thirty, Jano was home. Mama told him that we're going to East Ave. Medical Center tomorrow for the test results. She said we borrowed P1,000 from Calove because Auntie Vangie was still in Hong Kong. The fabrication was accepted. He then said that our indebtedness was already paid, which gladdened me. At least, Mama's burden was lessened.

I turned off the tv early. It was 9 pm.

April 22, 2009

At 4:45 am, I was already wide awake. I prepared for our trip today—including our 'baon.' And at past 6 am, Mama and I left home. Jano left minutes before us.

Past 8, we're already at East Avenue Medical Center. We were accommodated earlier. However the waiting was too long. There were so many processes.

At 4 pm, Mama's health was cleared. She passed the x-ray, ECG, and lab tests. I was very glad. However, when I gave the clearance to the optha department, it was interchanged with disappointment. We've learned that the estimated operation bill was P20,000. Auntie Vangie might feel the same way, too.

The optha department asked for my cell number, so that they could notify me for the schedule of operation. It was another disappointment. I thought they could schedule it that day.

Past six, when we got home. I was exhausted, yet I had to do household chores, especially cooking.

Randy texted me. He just regarded me. He has no good news. Yet it was not worth anticipating. I would rather wait for my cousin's (Klyn) news.

April 23, 2009

After treating Mama with milk and bread, I slept again. It was when I got up. It could have been longer if Mama did not wake me up. I was still sleepy when I did some household chores.

So at 2 pm, I took a nap. I still wanted to sleep, but I could not. I had to do some productive stuff.

While having merienda, I started cleaning the plate racks.

Quarter to seven, Dr. Gay-ya of ED/Cornea Department of East Avenue Medical Center texted me. She scheduled Mama tomorrow for the finalization of her cornea transplant.

When Jano arrived at 9 pm, I told him about our 'lakad' tomorrow. He asked, before I asked, if we have money. He gave us budget.

April 24, 2009

I got up before six and prepared for leaving. I waited for Mama to get up. She has sleepless night last night, so I let her sleep again.

At EAMC, we waited until 10:30. The opthalmologists meet and had a conference. It was past eleven when Mama was accommodated. We were oriented of estimated bill and possible follow-up checkups after the operation. Mama and I promised that we would comply with these.

After our lunch, we were told to come back on Monday. But before that, we were given a tentative schedule of operation, which is on April 29.

I texted Auntie Vangie about the P20K budget. She said that she could only give us P10K because it's only the amount left from P25K. The P15K was used since December. She also demanded Jano's help.

When I texted Taiwan, he replied "Wla p kmi pera. Mtagal p shod namin."

I knew the amount would be provided soon. Though Auntie Vangie said she only could offer P10k. I knew she could provide the whole amount. But I still have to tell it to Jano. He has to contribute anyhow.

When he arrived, he asked about our 'lakad' abruptly. I told him the need of P10,000 to fil the lacking of P10,000 of Auntie Vangie. He wanted me to solicit from Mama's siblings, which I disagreed completely, by not minding him.

April 25, 2009

Six-thirty when I got up. Later I cleansed Mama's left eye, as what Dr. Gay-ya instructed me to do. Then I started the laundry. Jano's dirty clothes were greater than the last time. But it was okay for I would use the washing machine today.

At 10 am, I was done washing clothes. I later faced the kitchen. I did dishwashing and cooking lunch.

Jano and Gie arrived at 8 pm. I knew she was here to do laundry tomorrow. But I already did! They must reward me.

April 26, 2009

After breakfast and after treating Mama her breakfast, I swept outside and did some weeding and gardening.

I was not yet done when my mag-iina was dropped by my in-laws, who were going to Boso-Boso. Their surprise arrival gladdened me. I missed my kids so much. They sure missed me, too.

Before I went to Veterans to do marketing, Auntie Vangie texted me. She asked me what Jano and I have talked about. I could reply it after I consulted Jano, who said he has no money yet and promises to shoulder the expenses of maintenance. Auntie got mad. Instead she suggested to try asking Lola Alice for financial help, which was Jano's plan.

Auntie Vangie told me to go to Sauyo tomorrow. I agreed and opened up my plan of leaving Mama there until Wednesday morning, since Mama must not be tired in commuting. Her next reply was an invitation. She told me to bring Mama at their house after the checkup tomorrow. It was favorable to Mama and me.

I was about to text Auntie Belen after that. However the cp number was saved on Jano's phone, which was blocked. It was saved on his phone, not on my sim. I only got Auntie Belen's landline number.

Since I have saved {500 from the P2,500 given by Auntie Vangie, I gave P100 to Mj. I was saving it for any unplanned or surprise expenses, like job application.

Two-thirty, my mag-iina as fetched by my in-laws. They completed my day! I enjoyed the short time with them.

I took a nap at past 3 pm. I just could not sleep tightly because Jano and his friends were practicing their musical instruments at Auntie Belen's unfinished house.

I was forced to sleep early because the electric service was cut at past 9 pm. However at 12 mn, when it was resumed, I failed to fall asleep or to sleep again.

April 27, 2009

I was still very sleepy when Jano tapped my shoulder. He asked something. It was 6 am. I prepared for leaving. I also helped Mama in her preparation. She was very slow that I have done kitchen works even before she got dressed.

At 7:30, we left home. Nine, we were already at the Eye Center. We have to wait too long because the doctors were in the conference room.

Twelve-thirty, the checkup was done. Mama and I were disappointed that Dr. Nepomuceno moved the schedule of Mama's operation to May 5. Thus I notified Auntie Vangie about it.

Mama decided to go to Sauyo after I texted Auntie Vangie and at 2 pm we were already there. We were accommodated by Lola Alice and Tita Merly.

At 5:30 pm, Mj texted me. She says, "Ei, msta? S haus n kyo? Pwd b jn muna c Hnna? Lgi lng kc nssaktan d2. Nhhirapan nq. Kht ngaun wik lng n2."

Immediately, I told her that I will fetch our daughter tomorrow even though Mama's decision to stay with Lola Alice was not yet final.

It was past 7:30 when I told Mama the text of Mary Jane. So she finalized her decision, since Lola Alice wanted her to stay. She pitied Hanna, too.

I texted Jano to leave the key in a certain spot because I have told him earlier that we were going home tomorrow. He did not reply.

April 28, 2009

Past six, after having hot coffee and hot pandesal, I left Sauyo. Lola Alice gave me P90. I knew Mama's alright and would be okay there.

At 8, I was already at my in-laws' house. Hanna was ready to leave. She was bathed and dressed. And after bailing Zildjian with cheap chocolate balls, Hanna and I left.

I bought Hanna Nido Fortified milk in 350 g box. I wanted her to gain weight within a week.

Past nine when we arrived home. I looked for the key, but it was not in a certain place that I told Jano. I wondered why. He possibly did not received my text message. He might not like my presence in this house, as well. Thus, I broke the padlock.

Hanna was starving. After I gave her milk, she says, "Gutom na ako." I gave her biscuits after. Few hours later, she told me to cook. Mj confirmed that there was a crisis in their house to date.

We took a nap at 12 noon. It was 2:30 pm when I got up to watch tv.

Four o' clock, Mj sent this to me: "Lam u pkiramdam q prang wla aq aswa. Naiinis aq. Prang d n tyo ok." I was not able to reply because I ran out of load. But if do have, I would just laugh at her. She can't understand the situation.

Diyang came in at 4:30 pm. She looked for Mama. Then she started the talk. She told me about the family feud between Antolin and Flores. I was very surprised to the fact that Kuya Rex is battling through black magic against another black magic or Latin prayers of Family Antolin. It was unbelievable for me. She also claimed that what happened to Mama was caused by Antolin, which I disagreed.

I promised her to give used clothes so that she could start working again. She left at 6:30 pm.

Jano texted me twice. He used Sun number. He asked about what happened to our lakad. He did not know that we were here.

I thought, he is not going to be home, but then at 9:30, he arrived. But it was okay. I was ready.

April 29, 2009

Seven-thirty when I got up. After Hanna and I had breakfast, I did some gardening.

When Jano woke up, I started to feel uneasiness. I did not know what to do. He gave me P100 for water. Thus I have got something to work on. I cleansed the drum. I waited for the water supply truck to arrive. However it did not arrive. I was then told to buy coconut and gabi. I looked for them, but I have not found one.

Past 12 noon, I tended Hanna to sleep. I took a nap, too, but after a while I decided to get up and look for clothes that I will give to Diyang. Before I could finish it, Hanna rose up. I fed her so that she would not join.

At 3 pm, I was done. I then watched tv.

Jano left at 4:30 pm. He told me to use my money in buying viand. He would pay me on Sunday. I felt glad that he is concerned naman pala.

At 7 pm, Taiwan gave me load. For that, I have told him about Mama. Then I texted Mj. I told her that her text message yesterday made me laugh. Then I asked her to understand me because we could not be together yet in the verge of that situation.

April 30, 2009

It was raining since last night, thus sleeping up-to-sawa was suggestive. However I had to get up early. I exercised using two bottles of 1.5 soft drinks, filled with water.

Before lunch, Hanna and I watched 'Lion King' on DVD. And when she was sleeping at past 12 noon, I played 'Train Wreck: My Life as an Idiot.' I did not finish watching it because I had to nap. It was 3 pm when I got up.

Mj texted me, saying "Ok lng b kung syo muna c Hnna? Khit pgktpos ng operation Mama u. Sunduin u n lng ulit d2." I committed after I have learned that Hanna is often hurt by either Nicole or Zildjian whenever she was there. I then told her the advantage of Hanna's stay, which is the time for sleep. Hanna could sleep and every afternoon. It might help her gain weight.

Diyang came in at 5:30. I immediately gave her the used clothes. She chose on them, then we talked. She was thankful for my deed. She told me, as well, about her Indian national chat mate. On the course of our conversation, I have infused some of my values, and I have given her words of wisdom, encouragement, and advice. One of the advices I gave her was about the importance of every centavo that she would earn.

Past 7 pm, when she left. It was also the time I cooked viand for dinner.

At 8:30, Mj texted me. She says, "Tma ba n mainis aq, mgtampo dhil gn2 tyo? Plgi n lng gn2... Pkrmdm q npk'useless q. Sori kung nssbi q 2."

I was irritated by it, thus I replied. "Naku! Maling-mali k! Wla k s timing! M2log k n lng."

Then she responded, "Prang gs2 q n mg'gve up. Cge gudnyt."

I did not reply anymore.

I did not understand her. Why she was acting weird this very moment? If she's tired of being with her parents, so I am. I'm tired of this state. But as of now, I can't do nothing, but to take care of Mama. She must be thankful that I have had time to take care of our daughter.

Past 9:30, Jano and his mag-iina arrived. I knew that they us I got ready would come home. The house was organized by me beforehand.

Sina Passerine at Siloy

 

Sina Passerine at Siloy

Mahilig umawit ang magkaibigang sina Passerine at Siloy. Pakanta-kanta sila habang naghahanap ng pagkain.

Si Passerine na isang maliit na ibon at may makulay na balahibo. Itim ang ulo at balikat niya. Pula ang dibdib niya. May asul at puti naman sa ilalim ng buntot at tiyan.

Si Siloy naman ay halos itim ang buong katawan, maliban sa bahagyang puting marka sa kaniyang balakang o buntot. Pero higit na mas malaki siya kaysa kay Passerine.

Magkaiba man ang kulay ng kanilang mga balahibo, magkatulad naman sila ng misyon— ang  pangalagaan ang mga kagubatan sa Cebu.

Si Passerine ang nagpaparami ng mga halaman at puno. Siya ang mahusay sa polinasyon. Lumilipad siya papunta sa bulaklak para kumain ng nektar o maliit na prutas. Habang kumakain, dinidikit niya sa tuka, ulo, at balahibo ang mga pulbos ng bulaklak. Kapag lumipat siya sa ibang bulaklak, naipapasa niya ang mga pulbos, na nagreresulta sa pagkabuo ng bunga at buto ng halaman.

Si Siloy naman ang nangangalaga sa paglago ng mga halaman at puno sa kagubatan. Mahusay siya sa pagkontrol ng pesteng insekto. Ginagawa niyang pagkain ang mga ito. Mas marami siyang makakain, mas malaki ang pag-asang lumaki, mamunga, at dumami ang mga halaman at puno.

Isang araw, habang namamahinga at umaawit ang magkaibigan, nakarinig sila ng malakas na pagsabog. Agad nilang hinanap iyon upang alamin ang nangyari.

Sa di-kalayuan, nakita nila ang mga dambuhalang makinarya. Winasak ng mga ito ang malaking bahagi ng kagubatan.

“Ano’ng gagawin natin, Siloy? Sinisira nila ang tirahan nating mga hayop,” tanong ni Passerine.

“Wala na tayong magagawa. Mga makinarya at tao ang kalaban natin,” tugon ni Siloy.

“May magagawa tayo. May boses tayo.”

“Ano? Aawitan natin sila para tumigil?” natatawang tanong ni Siloy.

“Hindi.” Naiinis na lumipad si Passerine. “Sumunod ka sa akin.”

Tahimik na sumunod si Siloy kay Passerine hanggang sa marating nila ang santuwaryo ng mga ibon.

“Mag-iingat kayo! Minimina nila ang tahanan natin,” ilang beses na babala ni Passerine.

Nataranta ang mga kapuwa-ibon. “Ano’ng gagawin natin?” tanong ng mga ito.

“Bumaba kayo sa kapatagan. Ipagbigay-alam ninyo sa mga kinauukulan ang masamang gawain nila sa lugar natin. Dali!” utos ni Passerine.

Agad na naunawaan at nagsitalima ang iba-ibang uri ng ibon.

“Mag-iingat kayo,” pahabol ni Siloy.

Napadapo sa sanga ng malaking puno ng molave sina Passerine at Siloy.

“Magagawa kaya nila ang utos mo?” tanong ni Siloy.

“Oo. May magagawa tayong lahat,” sabi ni Passerine saka lumipad.

Tinipon ng magkaibigan ang mga hayop. At sa pamamagitan ng kanilang pag-awit, naipahayag nila ang kanilang plano.

“Tumindig tayo, mga kaibigan. Halina’t magkaisa’t iligtas ang ating kagubatan. Ipakita ang lakas ng boses ng pagkakaisa. Sabay-sabay nating ipaalam sa mga tao ang tamang gawa!” sabay na awit ng magkaibigan.

Nakiawit na rin ang iba pang mga hayop bago kumilos ang mga ito.

Mabilis na nakarating sa minahan ang ibang mga hayop. Isa-isa nilang sinalakay ang mga minero. Nanuklaw ang mga ahas. Nanuwag ang mga usa. Nangagat ang mga bayawak. Nanuka ang mga ibon.

Ilang saglit pa ang lumipas, nagtakbuhan palayo ang mga tao. Iniwan ng mga ito ang kani-kanilang makinarya.

“Tumindig tayo, mga kaibigan. Halina’t magkaisa’t iligtas ang ating kagubatan. Ipakita ang lakas ng boses ng pagkakaisa. Sabay-sabay nating ipaalam sa mga tao ang tamang gawa!” muling awit ng mga ibon at hayop nang nagawa nilang palayasin sa gubat ang mga tao.

Pasalubong

 

 

Pasalubong

 

 

           Nasa sala ang mag-asawang Chris at Evelyn dahil dumating si Tiya Menchie.

 

Evelyn: Kumusta sina Papang at Mamang? Siguro gusto nilang sumama sa iyo sa pagpunta rito.

 

Menchie: Tama ka, Ate Evelyn. Anila, gusto nilang magbakasyon dito kahit one week.

 

Chris: Sana sinama mo na.

 

                Dumating sina Apple at Griffin. Napahinto silang dalawa nang makita ang bisita.

 

Chris: Mga anak, magmano kayo sa Tiya Menchie ninyo. Siya ang bunsong kapatid ko.

 

                Nahihiyang lumapit ang magkapatid kay Tiya Menchie, saka nagmano.

 

Menchie: Bless you! Ang lalaki na nila, Ate Evelyn at Kuya Chris. Parang kailan lang.

 

Apple: Tita, ano’ng pasalubong ninyo sa amin?

 

                Marahang hinila ng ina si Apple.

 

Evelyn: Hindi ganyan, Apple, ha? May pasalubong o wala, dapat masaya kayo sa pagbisita niya o ninoman.

               

Apple: (Napayuko muna siya, saka tumingin sa tiya.) Sorry po, Tiya Menchie.

 

Menchie: Okey lang `yon. (Ngumiti siya.)

 

Evelyn: Sige, mga anak, doon na kayo. Pumunta kayo sa kusina. May dalang mga durian at mangosteen ang Tiya Menchie ninyo.

 

                Namilog ang mga mata ng magkapatid. Nagpasalamat sial, saka mabilis na tumakbo patungo sa kusina. Nagngitian na lang ang tatlong naiwan.

Paggalang sa Ideya ng Iba

Paggalang sa Ideya ng Iba

 

Pagbibigay at paghingi ng ideya sa iba

Ay dapat may kalakip na paggalang, `di ba?

Gaya ng pagpapasalamat sa kanila

Galing sa pus, `di ngiting-aso ang kagaya

At kung ideya nila’y hindi mo gusting talaga

Lagi mong isipin ang mararamdaman nila

Ayaw mo man ay magpasalamat pa rin sa kanila

Nang  maramdaman nilang ikaw ay nagpapahalaga

Ganyang pagtanggap ang ialay sa kapuwa.

 

Sa pagmamalasakit nila, nagbigay sila ng ideya

Ang makatulong sa iyo, ang tanging hangad nila.

 

Iyong tanggapin at igalang amh suhestiyong mabisa

`Di naman kapahamakan ang iyong mapapala

Ekis man dahil may napili ka nang mas maganda

`Yan ay hindi mahalaga, kundi iyong pagpapahalaga

Ang ideya ng iba ay igalang mo sa tuwina.

Mga Kaibigang Nagmamahal sa Kalikasan

 

Mga Kaibigang Nagmamahal sa Kalikasan

 

Ako’y may kaibigan-- siya si Maw-Maw

Ugali niya’y parang nakakatakot na halimaw

Mga halaman ay dinudurog na tila mga kaaway

Takot na takot naman sa mga prutas at gulay.

 

Kaibigan ko rin si Maak, na anak-mayaman

Katulad ng kaharian ang kaniyang tirahan

Kaya sa pag-aaksaya, siya ay number one

Tubig at kuryente, `di pinanghihinayangan.

 

May isa pa akong itinuturing na kaibigan

‘Trasha’ ang kaniyang tunay na pangalan

Gaya ng basura-- mabahong pakinggan

Basura niya’y tinatapon lang kung saan-saan.

 

Masasamang ugali at gawi ay aking puputulin

Tuturuan din na ang kalikasa’y dapat mahalin

Paninira, pag-aaksaya, at pagkakalat, tanggalin

Sa puso nila—pagmamahal ang panatilihin.

Liwanag ng Kabutihan

 

Liwanag ng Kabutihan

 

Isang gabi, nagbabasa si Marc sa may gilid ng kalsada. Nanggagaling ang liwanag sa solar lights sa poste roon. Ilang sandali ang lumipas, may humintong sasakyan sa tapat niya.

“Bata, ang sipag mo namang magbasa. Kahanga-hanga ka,” sabi ng drayber ng sasakyan.

“Salamat po, Kuya. Wala po kasi kaming kuryente sa bahay kaya madalas dito ako nagbabasa, nag-aaral, at gumagawa ng assignment,” paliwanag ni Marc.

“Bihira ang katulad mo.”

Nagpatuloy si Marc sa pagbabasa pagkatapos niyang ngitian ang lalaki. Hindi niya napansin ang pagbaba nito mula sa sasakyan.

“Dahil sa determinasyon mong makapag-aral kahit sa ganitong paraan, gusto kong mag-abot ng kaunting tulong para sa pag-aaral mo,” sabi nito, sabay abot sa lilibuhing pera.

Hindi agad iyon inabot ni Marc dahil sa pagtataka. “Pero~” Napakamot na lamang siya sa ulo, saka nagpasalamat.

“Puwede kang makabili ng solar lamp para sa bahay mo na gawin ang mga assignment mo.”

Biglang umaliwalas ang mukha ni Marc. “Tama po, Kuya! Maraming salamat po ulit!”

“O, sige na, tutuloy na ako. At kung ano pa ang kailangan mo sa eskuwelahan mo, puntahan mo na lang ako sa bahay ko.” Inabot ng lalaki ang isang tarheta.

Saglit na binasa iyon ni Marc. Naunawaan niya ang ibig sabihin niyon. Alam niyang calling card iyon dahil may mga phone numbers, email address, at home address. “Naku, malaking tulong na po itong binigay ninyo.”

“Maliit na bagay lang iyan kumpara sa inspirasyong naidudulot mo sa iba, gaya ko. Sobra akong humanga sa `yo kaya deserve mong tulungan.”

Maluha-luha si Marc habang nagpapaalam sa estranghero.

“Kyler Dequino. Siya si Kuya Kyler,” sabi niya nang mabasa iyon sa tarheta. “Ang bait niya.”

Kinabukasan, nagpabili si Marc ng solar lamp sa kaniyang ina. Kinagabihan, tuwang-tuwa siya, gayundin ang kaniyang mga kapatid dahil maliwanag na sa kanilang bahay. Hindi na niya kailangang pumunta sa may tabing kalsada para mag-aral doon.

“Nanay, gusto kong magpasalamat kay Kuya Kyler. Paano po ba sumulat ng liham pasasalamat?” tanong niya sa ina, isang umaga.

Natawa muna ang kaniyang ina. “Alam mo namang hindi ako marunong magbasa at magsulat, `di ba? Paturo ka na lang uli kay Marjorie.”

“Ay, tama! Sa kaniya na lang po uli ako magpapatulong sa pag-research.”

“Bakit hindi na lang ikaw? Gamitin mo ang natitirang pera sa computer shop.”

“Huwag na po. Sayang po. Hindi naman po ako magtatagal. Gusto ko lang makakuha ng ideya.”

Pagpunta ni Marc sa bahay ng kanilang kapitbahay na si Marjorie, abala ito sa mga gawaing-bahay. Gayunpaman, tinulungan pa rin siya nito.

“Salamat, Ate Marjorie, sa mga ito!” ani Marc habang hawak ang dalawang papel. “Pinag-print mo pa talaga ako kahit busy ka.”

“Sus! Maliit na bagay. Basta para sa pag-aaral mo, suportado kita.”

Nagpalitan sila ng matatamis na ngiti bago umuwi si Marc. Subalit naglaho ang ngiti sa kaniyang mga labi nang mabasa ang nilalaman ng dalawang papel.

“Balangkas at dayagram lang pala ito ng pagsulat ng liham pasasalamat,” sabi niya, sabay kamot sa ulo. “Walang halimbawa? Paano ako makakasulat?”

Dahil sa paulit-ulit na pagbasa ni Marc sa mga iyon, unti-unting lumilinaw sa kaniya ang gagawin. Kaya pagkalipas ng tigsasampung minutong pagbabasa sa bawat papel, sinisimulan na niya ang pagsusulat ng liham pasasalamat.

“Ang galing! Nakasulat na ako. Mahalaga pala ang balangkas at dayagram,” bulalas niya. Iwinagayway pa niya ang liham.

Bago inilagay ni Marc sa sobre ang liham, binasa niya muna iyon. 

 

 

                    Pebrero 10, 2026

 

Kuya Kyler,

         Magandang araw sa iyo!

        Kumusta ka na po?  Kung ako ang tatanungin mo, mabuti naman ang kalagayan ko.

       Sumulat ako para magpasalamat sa perang binigay mo sa akin. Gusto ko ring ibalita sa iyo na nakabili na ako ng solar lamp. Nagagamit ko na ito, at mas komportable na ang pag-aaral ko sa bahay. Hindi ko na kailangang pumunta sa tabing kalsada.

       Siyanga pala, may natitira pang sangkapat ng kabuuang halagang ibinigay mo. Ang kalahati nito ay plano kong ibili ng mga school supplies. At ang tatlong-ikalima sa natitirang kalahati ay ilalagay ko sa aking alkansiya. At ang dalawang-ikalima naman ay ipinambaon ko noong Lunes. Nabigyan ko rin ng tiglilimang biskwit ang mga kapatid ko.

      Huwag kang mag-alala, Kuya Kyler, iingatan ko ang solar lamp, at mag-aaral pa ako nang mabuti. At sana patuloy kang biyayaan ng Diyos dahil mabuti kang tao.

             Maraming salamat pong muli.

                                                                                                                                                                         Marc,

                Pagkatapos itinupi niya ang liham sa tatlong bahagi, kaya nang isuksok niya iyon sa sobre ay naging sangkatlo. Kasyang-kasya! Isinunod niya ang paglalagay ng mga address sa harapan ng sobre.

                “Ay, hala! Nasa kabilang kanto lang itong Langka Street,” sabi niya. “Ihahatid ko na lang doon para personal ko siyang mapasalamatan at mabalitaan.”

Gayon nga ang ginawa ni Marc. At madali niyang nahanap ang bahay ni Kyler dahil maraming beses na siyang napadaan doon. Subalit, pagdating doon, kasambahay lang ang nakausap niya.

Sabi nito, nasa outreach program sa Cagayan Valley si Kyler, at sa makalawa pa babalik.

“Pakiabot na lang po kay Kuya Kyler. Salamat po, Ate!” Magkahalong lungkot at saya ang naramdaman niya. Malungkot siya dahil posibleng hindi maibigay ang liham niya. Masaya naman siya dahil may mga matulunging tao, katulad ni Kuya Kyler.

Umalis si Marc na puno ng pasasalamat at pag-asa, determinado na mag-aral nang mabuti upang balang araw ay makapagbigay rin siya ng liwanag ng kabutihan sa iba.

Indarapatra at Sulayman

Indarapatra at Sulayman

Noong unang panahon, ang malaking pulo ng Mindanao ay halos nakalutang sa katubigan, at wala halos makikitang kapatagan. Umaabot hanggang sa mabababang bahagi ng lupa ang dagat, kaya tanging ang kabundukan lamang ang natatanaw. Maraming taong naninirahan at namumuhay ng payapa at sagana sa mga kabundukan, ngunit bigla silang binulabog ng apat na nakakatakot na halimaw. Nilapa at nilamon ng mga ito ang bawat taong mahuhuli o madadaklot. Nasira rin ang mga kabundukan at kagubatan.

 

Winasak ni Kurita—ang nakikilabot at dambuhalang halimaw na maraming paa-- ang mga kabahayan. Takot na takot ang mga tao na lumabas at mangisda sapagkat naninirahan ito sa lupa at bahagi ng dagat, subalit mas gusto nitong manirahan sa bundok, kung saan ay may mga rattan.

 

Winasak din ni Tarabusaw-- isang pangit na nilalang na may anyong tao—ang mga lupain, at nilamon ang mga tao. Takot na takot ang mga tao na pumunta at umakyat sa Bundok Matutun sapagkat doon naninirahan ang halimaw na ito.

 

Wala namang nakaliligtas kay Pah-- isang dambuhalang ibon, na kayang takpan ang araw kapag lumipad ito, na nagdudulot ng kadiliman sa lupa. Naninirahan at nangigitlog ito sa Bundok Bita, subalit walang makalapit dito, dahil, bukod sa kasinglaki ng isang bahay ang itlog nito, tinutuka at kinakain nito ang sinomang makita. Ang tanging kaligtasan ng mga tao ay ang pagtatago sa mga yungib.

 

Nangwasak at naghasik ng lagim din si Malanog-- isa ring nakakikilabot na ibong may pitong ulo, na kayang tumingin sa lahat ng direksiyon nang sabay-sabay. Mula sa Bundok Gurayn, tanaw na tanaw nito ang Bundok Gurayn, kaya madali nitong atakehin ang mga tao.

Nagdulot din ng pangamba sa malalayong lupain ang tungkol sa pangangambala ng apat na halimaw.  Nabalitaan nila ang matinding kamatayan ng mga tao at pagkawasak ng kapaligiran. Abot-langit ang kalungkutan ng lahat ng bansa dahil sa sinapit ng Mindanao.

 

Samantala sa malayong lupain, kung saan sumusikat ang ginintuang araw, namumuhay nang payapa at masagana ang isang napakalaking lungsod. Pinaghaharian iyon ni Haring Indarapatra.

 

Isang araw, ipinatawag ni Haring Indarapatra ang kaniyang kapatid na si Sulayman. “Batid kong nabalitaan mo rin ang nangyari sa Mindanao. Nais kong tulungan natin silang magapi ang apat na halimaw, na nagpapasakit sa kanila.”

 

“Kahabag-habag ang sinasapit ng mga tao at kapaligiran sa Mindanao, mahal kong hari. Tinatanggap ko ang iyong hamon,” tugon ni Sulayman. “Sa lalong madaling panahon, tutungo ako roon upang ipaghiganti ko ang kanilang lupain.”

 

Bago umalis si Sulayman, binigyan ni siya ni Haring Indapatra ng singsing at espada.

 

“Gabayan ka nawa ng singsing at espadang ito sa iyong paglalakbay at pakikipaglaban sa mga halimaw,” sabi ng kapatid. “At mamaya, pag-alis mo, magtatanim ako ng munting puno sa tabi ng bintana sa aking silid upang malaman ko ang iyong kapalaran. Kung magtatagumpay ka, mananatiling buhay ang puno, pero kung matutuyo ito, ikalulungkot ko.”

 

“Magtitiwala ako sa proteksiyong ibibigay ng iyong mga handog, mahal kong kapatid,” tugon ni Sulayman, na walang bahid ng pangamba at pag-aalinlangan. “Asahan mong makalalaya ang mga taga-Mindanao.”

 

Noon din, nilisan ni Sulayman ang kaharian, sa pamamagitan ng paglipad sa hangin. Dumiretso siya sa bundok ng mga rattan.

 

“Kalunos-lunos ang sinapit ng bundok na ito. Wasak na wasak ang mga tahanan, at naglaho ang mga tao.

 

Walang ano-ano’y nayanig ang bundok, at narinig ni Sulayman ang atungal ni Kurita. Nang lumitaw si Kurita, wala itong sinayang na sandal. Agad itong sumunggab upang lapain siya, ngunit mabilis na inundayan niya ito ng espada, at napatay ang halimaw.

 

Muling naglakbay si Sulayman, pagkatapos magapi si Kurita. Inakyat niya ang Bundok Matutun, kung saan nakaharap niya si Tarabusaw. Kaagad silang naglaban at nagtagisan ng lakas at bilis. Inabot ng gabi ang pakikipaglaban niya sa halimaw, ngunit napatay niya ito nang ito’y napagod.

 

Kinaumagahan, tinahak ni Sulayman ang Bundok Bita. Nasa kapunuan na siya nang biglang dumilim ang paligid dahil sa paglipad pababa ni Pah. Agad siyang pumaimbulog upang tagain ang pakpak ng halimaw na ibon.

 

Matagumpay na nautas ni Sulayman ang pakpak ng ibon, kaya bumagsak iyon sa lupa, ngunit naging dahilan iyon upang madaganan siya niyon, at ikamatay.

 

Sa mga sandaling iyon, habang nakadungaw si Haring Indarapatra, napansin niya ang biglang pagkatuyo ng puno ng buhay ni Sulayman. “Mahal kong kapatid, bakit nagpagapi ka? Ipaghihiganti kita.” Tumangis siya nang malakas habang nakakuyom ang kaniyang mga kamao, saka mabilis na pumaimbulog.

 

Pagkatapos ng paghahanap habang lumilipad, namataan ni Haring Indarapatra ang mga buto nina Kurita at Tarabusaw. Kahit paano ay natuwa siya sapagkat batid niyang si Sulayman ang tumalo sa dalawang halimaw.  

 

Nang marating naman ni Haring Indarapatra ang Bundok Bita, natagpuan niya ang patay na ibon, at sa ilalim ng pakpak nito, ang mga buto ni Sulayman. Tahimik na lamang siyang napaluha, ngunit biglang lumiwanag ang kaniyang puso, nang makita niya ang maliit na banga ng tubig sa tabi ng mga buto. “O, mahabaging langit, salamat sa biyayang ito,” pagpupuri niya. Pagkatapos niyon, ibinuhos niya ang tubig  sa mga buto.

 

Muling nabuhay si Sulayman. “Mahal kong kapatid! Maraming salamat sa tulong mo!” Nagyakapan silang magkapatid, saka nagkuwentuhan tungkol sa mga nangyari. Nagplano rin sila para sa mga susunod na hakbangin.

 

Pinabalik ni Indarapatra si Sulayman sa kanilang kaharian, ngunit nagpatuloy siya sa paglalakbay.

 

“Anoman ang kahihitnan ng aking paglalakbay, inihahabilin ko sa iyo ang ating kaharian,” bilin ng hari sa kapatid.

 

“Mag-iingat ka,” sabi ni Sulayman bago lumipad pabalik.

 

Naglakbay si Indarapatra hanggang sa Bundok Gurayn. Doon, natagpuan niya ang halimaw na ibon, na may pitong ulo. Taglay nito ang kakayahang Makita siya saanman siya dumako, ngunit nakahihigit ang bilis niya at talas ng kaniyang espada. Naputol niya ang bawat ulo ng halimaw, kaya bumagsak ito.

 

Sa kabila ng tagumpay, nakaramdam ng kalungkutan si Indarapatra dahil wala siyang mamalas na buhay na tao. Gayunpaman, nag-ikot-ikot siya sa paligid, bakasakaling may matanaw siyang tao, na nakaligtas sa paghahari ng mga halimaw.

 

Pagkatapos ng mahaba-habang paglalakbay, natanaw niya sa kakahuyan ang isang magandang dalaga, ngunit naglaho ito sa butas sa lupa.

 

Dahil sa matinding pagod, nagpapahinga si Indarapatra sa ilalim ng puno. Pagmulat niya, nakakita siya ng palayok na may bigas at apoy. “Tamang-tama ito dahil sadyang kumakalam na ang aking sikmura.” Agad niyang isinaing ang bigas.

 

Bago iyon maluto, may matandang babaeng lumapit sa kaniya. “Ginoo, iilan na lamang ang nabubuhay sa lupaing ito, at nagtago sila sa isang yungib sa ilalim ng lupa.”

 

“Ligtas na ang lupaing ito. Nagapi na namin ng kapatid kong si Sulayman ang apat na halimaw,” masayang balita ni Indarapatra. Hiniling din niya sa matanda na samahan siya nito sa yungib upang makilala ang mga nakaligtas.

 

Sa yungib, kung saan naroon ang pinuno ng nayon at ang ilang nakaligtas, isinalaysay ni Indarapatra ang mga pangyayari. Pinasalamatan siya ng mga ito.

 

Ipinakilala sa kaniya ng pinuno ng nayon ang anak nitong babae.

 

“Magandang araw, binibini!” bati ni Indarapatra, saka nagpakilala. “Ikaw ang nakita ko kanina.”

 

Ngumiti at tumango lamang ang dalaga.

 

“Dahil sa iyong kabayanihan, nais kong maikasal kayo ng aking anak. Isinasalin ko na rin sa iyon ang paghahari sa lupaing ito sapagkat ako ay may katandaan na,” sabi nito. 

 

Malugod na tinanggap ni Indarapatra ang lahat, gayundin ng dalaga. At hindi lumipas ang isang araw, ikinasal siya sa dalaga. Lumabas na rin ang lahat ng nabubuhay na tao mula sa kani-kanilang pinagtataguang lungga, at bumalik sa mga tahanan.

 

Unti-unti, nanumbalik ang kapayapaan at kasaganaan sa lupain ng Mindanao. Umatras din ang dagat at muling lumitaw ang mabababang lupain, kaya nagkaroon ng malalawak na kapatagan upang mapagtamnan ng mga tao.

Balagtasan: Kapistahan at Pambansang Pistang Opisyal: Alin ang Higit na Mahalaga sa Mamamayan?

 

 Kapistahan at Pambansang Pistang Opisyal: Alin ang Higit na Mahalaga sa Mamamayan?

 

Lakandiwa:

Magandang araw sa inyong lahat, aking mga kababayan!

Dalawang magiting na mambabalagtas, nasa inyong harapan.

Pagtatalunan ang pambansang pistang opisyal at kapistahan,

Kung alin ang mas mahalaga at kapaki-pakinabang sa mamamayan.

 

Pambansang Pistang Opisyal:

Ang pambansang pistang opisyal ang mas mahalaga, mga kaibigan.

Mga manggagawa, trabahador, at empleyado, ako’y papanigan

Dahil ito na nga’y araw ng pahinga sa trabaho, sila pa’y babayaran

Kung papasok pa sila, ang kanilang suweldo ay madodoble naman.

 

Kapistahan:

May punto ka naman, katoto, ngunit ito’y sadyang may kababawan

Kung suweldo at pahinga lamang ang iyong habol at inaabangan,

Walang halaga iyan kung ikukumpara sa aking ipinaglalaban—

Ang kapistahan, gaya ng Ati-Atihan, ay higit na mahalagang ipagdiwang.

 

Pambansang Pistang Opisyal:

Hindi mababaw ang aking argumento, kundi ang iyong saradong isipan

Sa pambansang pistang opisyal, ang bawat Pilipino ay nagdiriwang

Kapag Rizal at Bonifacio Day, inaalala natin ang kanilang kagitingan

Tuwing Araw ng Kagitingan ---demokrasya, kalayaan, at kapayapaan.

 

Kapistahan:

Ang kapistahan naman ay nagiging tradisyon, kultura, at kaugalian

Naipapasa ito mula sa matatanda hanggang sa mga kabataan

Ang mga pamanang sayaw, awit, at pagkain ay pinagsasaluhan

Hindi man pambansa, subalit ito’y mas makulay, masaya’t makabuluhan.

 

Pambansang Pistang Opisyal:

Hindi lahat ng mga Pilipino ay niyayakap ang inyong kapistahan

Sapagkat magkakaiba ang ating relihiyon at sinasampalatayaan

Samantalang ang pistang opisyal ay walang sekta—pangkalahatan

Maging mga estudyante ay may natututuhan tungkol sa kasaysayan.

 

Kapistahan:

Hindi man kasaysayan, pero patron na santo ay pinasasasalamatan

Kung gayon, aking panig ay di-hamak na karapat-dapat paniwalaan

At ang argumento mo ay walang bigat, saka walang kahalagahan

Mabuti pa’y tanggapin mo nang dumayo ka rin minsan sa pistahan.

 

Pambansang Pistang Opisyal:

Oo na! Oo na! Aamin kong dumayo ako minsan sa isang pistang-bayan

Ngunit itatanggi kong walang saysay ang aking mga talasalitaan

Ikaw, ikaw itong mga binibigkas ay hindi lohikal at hindi makatotohanan

Kaya huwag mo akong husgahan, baka ako’y magsiwalat `pag napilitan.

 

Lakandiwa:

Sandali! Pakiwari ko’y dalawang magkatunggali ay nagkakainitan

Tandaan lamang, ating paksa ay huwag lalayuan at huwag iiwanan

Nang sa gayon, ang inyong mga argumento ay malayang mabitawan

Ituloy na natin ang palitan ng kuro-kuro nang may kahinahunan.

 

Kapistahan:

Akong namulat sa mga pistahan ay may respeto at paggalang

Hindi katulad sa iba riyan na kahit sa matanda’y walang pitagan

Kung manalita at mangatuwiran, daig pa ang matalas na sundang

Akala naman niya’y ako ay titiklop sa laban o siya ay aking uurungan.

 

Pambansang Pistang Opisyal:

Bakit hindi ka humarap sa akin at sabihin ang mga iyan nang harapan?

Kung ako nga ang iyong pinatutungkulan, wala akong panahon diyan

Ating balikan ang paksang pinagtatalunan nang ito na ay matuldukan

At natitiyak ko namang ang mga madla sa akin sila magpapalapakan.

 

Kapistahan:

Huwag mo silang pangungunahan dahil hindi pa kita inaatrasan

Nagkakatipon diyan ang aking pamilya, mga kamag-anak, at mga kaibigan

Ganyan kami kung magsuportahan--- matatag, buong-buo ang samahan

Katulad tuwing kami ay nagdiriwang ng pista—tila may bayanihan.

 

Pambansang Pistang Opisyal:

Samakatuwid, nakakatawa ka. Niyaya mo pa ang kapitbahayan

Kawawa ka naman, ni sa katiting, wala kang kalaban-laban

Tuwing pistang opisyal, buong bansa kami kung magdiwang

Kaya ang kakampi ko ay hindi lang bayan, kundi sambayanan.

 

Kapistahan:

O, sige, huwag tayo ritong magkampi-kampihan o magbilangan

Tingnan na lamang natin sa mga libro, babasahin, at sanggunian

Mga kapistahan sa Pilipinas iyong makikita at masisilayan

Kahit sa indeks at apendiks ng libro, salitang ‘pista’ ay nariyan.

 

Pambansang Pistang Opisyal:

Wala ka sa pambansang pista opisyal, nasa kaledaryo lang naman

Nakapula ang karamihan, ang iba nama’y inaanunsiyo nang biglaan

Tinatingala ng balana, na animo’y isang haring makapangyarihan

Minsan pa nga, nagkakaroon ng long weekend sa isang buwan.

 

Kapistahan:

Ang kapistahan, kahit wala sa kalendaryo, ay masaya naman

Dahil may sayawan, kantahan, paligsahan, kainan-- may suman

Mga bisita nami’y talagang naliligayahan, kami’y babalik-balikan

Kaya daig pa ang holiday, na sa kultura ay walang kinalaman.

 

 

Pambansang Pistang Opisyal:

Meron naman kung iyong pang-unawa lang ay lalawakan

At ang nakasisiguro ako, ito ay tungkol sa ating kasaysayan,

Gaya ng “Araw ng mga Bayani” at ang “Araw ng Kalayaan.”

Huwag mong itangging ang panig na ito’y may kabuluhan.

 

Lakandiwa:

Magaling kayong pareho! At pareho kayong may pinatunayan.

Bagaman di-magkatulad ang inyong mga pinaniniwalaan

At magkatulad kayong may paninindigan at pinaninindigan

Ay aking ibibigay sa madla ang kapangyarihang kayo ay husgahan.