How the Lasallian Family marched to Ayala? (Update 2)

Delegates from De La Salle University - Dasmariñas blocked while on their way to Ayala

By Christopher Alcantara, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent

Lasallian March. Students, faculty, and administrators clamored for transparency and accountability in the streets of Ayala (Karla Peralta for DLSP Media Bureau )

Delegates from Lasallian Family have been active in inter-faith rallies, yet the Makati demonstration last 29 February proved to be a feat for them as an estimated 500 participants from different La Salle schools marched with the rest of the nation in upholding justice and restoring integrity, being the change "we want to see."

Ready for Battle

With the message of Lozada still fresh in Lasallians’ minds a day after his Kamalayan forum, the Lasallian community was more determined to fight for truth.

In the morning, dozens of concerned individuals flocked the Lasallain Truth Center at the Central Plaza in De La Salle University -Manila (DLSU-M) to avail of green ribbons that symbolize hope for our nation. Others who were going to attend the rally later that afternoon bought advocacy shirts and donated to the ARMSP sanctuary fund to express their unwavering support for Lozada’s “deep desire to speak the truth”, as in the words of Br. Armin Luistro FSC, President of De La Salle Philippines.

De La Salle Philippines (DLSP), in cooperation with other representatives and organizations in the different La Salle schools, also gave out guidelines for the Inter-faith prayer rally, citing a change in the assembly place that was previously slated at The Columns along Ayala Avenue.

Wadel Cabrera III, Institutional Advocacy Coordinator of the DLSU – Manila Center for Social Concern and Action (COSCA), along with personnel and volunteers from the Lasallian Pastoral Office (LSPO), relayed final reminders and instructions to the vigilant group of students, administrators and personnel. He reminded everyone that the primary concern of the Lasallian community is upholding truth and justice.

Two buses were made available for the two Taft-based La Salle campuses. The first bus, filled with students and administrators from De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde, left at around 1:15 PM, with the DLSU – Manila contingent following at exactly 1:30 PM.

On the other hand, students and personnel from La Salle Green Hills (LSGH) and De La Salle Zobel also joined the rally.

Hindrances

While on their way to Makati, two buses hailing from De La Salle University - Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) were blocked by police officers from Philippine National Police (PNP). The policemen just inspecting if bad elements were mixed in the crowd. But few minutes after, they were allowed to pass by the express way.

Steve Salibay, a Lasallian Partner and the present director of Lasallian Animation and Formation Team (LAFT), recounted the events that transpired that afternoon.

Apparently, the buses with contingents from DLSU-D and De La Salle - Health and Sciences Institute (DLS-HSI) were harassed by police on three different occasions during their journey, Salibay said.

The vehicles were stopped by policemen on Molino road, the crossing going to Daang Hari and the crossing at SM Bacoor, as part of what the police referred to as 'traffic standard operating procedure'.

During these checks, the drivers of the buses were asked to show their licenses and car registrations, even though they were the only ones being 'held'. Br. Mario Dacanay FSC, who accompanied the students and personnel, clarified with the policemen regarding their violation, to which the officials replied that there was none. He negotiated with the officers, who finally let their vehicles pass through an intersection to Daang Hari after one whole hour.

According to Salibay, the most fearful part of their journey was when a Tamaraw FX tried to harass the contingent by intentionally blocking their buses. Afraid that violence might ensue between the bus and FX drivers, they decided to turn around, intending to hold their prayer rally at the Imus Cathedral.

Salibay furthered their buses were blocked by an armored car, prohibiting any access. So they decided to head back to DLSU-D where they held their prayers and discussions in front of their chapel.

Salibay stated that even though they were not able to reach Makati, they considered themselves part of the Inter-faith gathering. "We were part and one with those who were denied of our right to free assembly. We were in unity with those who wanted the truth to come out yet were refused to be given the right of way of the road we supposedly paid with our taxes."

The delegates from De La Salle Lipa, meanwhile, arrived at Ayala earlier.

The March begins

The Lasallian Family, along with the other member schools of the Catholic Educators Association of the Philippines (CEAP), converged at Don Bosco Makati Parish Church before marching to Ayala Avenue.

The CEAP member schools convened at the parish, with the La Salle contingent headed by Vanes Abella of the Lasallian Youth Commission (LYC) and Levi Albania of LJPC. The organizers repeated that their call centered on a more transparent and accountable government, and not on destabilizing it by ousting any government official.

Because of this, they assured that no political personalities would speak during the prayer rally [however, former Presidents Corazon Aquino and Joseph Estrada later delivered their messages].

Above all, students, administrators and religious educators were urged to be more vigilant in addressing issues concerning the nation.

Along with the other Catholic schools from all over the metro, the Lasallian Family began their march from Don Bosco to Paseo De Roxas, barricaded by concerned civilians and the religious.

As encouraged by the organizers, banners and streamers were only limited to messages that advocate for truth, justice and integrity. Along the way, Bishop Teodoro Bacani also expressed his support to the cause by marching with the students who believe in what Lozada is fighting for.

Gina de Venecia and company. The wife of Joe de Venecia marched with concerned citizens along Ayala. () Karla Peralta for DLSP Media Bureau).

Clenched fist. Protesters raised their clenched fists as they demand transparency and accountability (Karla Peralta for DLSP Media Bureau).


Law Makers. Members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines joined the protesters. in search of the truth.
(Karla Peralta for DLSP Media Bureau)

On call. Police forces are designated in the Inter-faith rally zone (Karla Peralta for DLSP Media Bureau).

Related link:

1. Br. Ceci's multiply

Inter-faith personalities: Protest is for the youth

By Paul Darwynn Garilao, DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent

Well-known personalities who attended the inter-faith rally held in Makati last 29 February opined that the massive protests do not only call to uphold the truth or to call President GMA to resign but to prepare a good future for the young citizens – a big part of which comprised the rally’s estimated 80,000 participants.

Henry Kahn, one of the organizers and an alumnus of De La Salle University - Manila (DLSU-M), said, “What we are doing [protest] today is really for the youth. They (youth) are the one who should take over the country and they should lead it. But let us lead it now correctly with values, with morality, with righteousness, with goodness.”

Darlene Custodio, a representative from General Santos, said: “the future that we are trying to fill is the future of our generation and the generation of our kids.” Custodio, who is an alumnae of DLSU – M, added,” it is important to make sure that we dictate our political destiny. We don’t actually let all these anomalies go.”

Guillermo Luz, executive director of Makati Business Club, advised the young people “to go for the truth, always ask for the facts, and act on them.” Luz furthered: “Our future is at stake and we must act on that. We are the future. We must move. If we are going to sit back and do nothing, nothing will happen in this country. Stick for the fact, look out the truth…”

Critical mass

Young people, who were considered part of the critical mass during the inter-faith gathering, came from different political and non-political organizations.

In the past weeks, young citizens who participate in rallies felt their rights are being infringed because of the series of harassments they faced. In Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), students caused to panic because of “bomb scare” last 29 February. When the gate of the university was locked for bomb inspection, the PUP students were able to move inside the campus to support Jun Lozada.

Even young people from La Salle schools felt the infringement. While on their way to Makati inter-faith rally, students and faculty were blocked while on their way to Ayala.

Other students and personnel from La Salle schools who stormed the rally came from DLSU-M, De La Salle - College of St. Benilde, De La Salle Santiago Zobel, De La Salle Araneta University, and De La Salle Lipa. Braganza, a member of Tapat Political Party, estimated that the number of participants from DLSU- Manila reached 300. Total delegates from La Salle schools reached around 500 participants (See related link here).

It will not end here…

Alvin Peters, chairperson of National Union Students of the Philippines (NUSP), said the Makati gathering is not the last demonstration, in which the youth will participate. He said that there are series of forums and protests prepared by the Youth Act NOW! in cooperation with other groups who share the same advocacy.

On 2 March, University of Sto. Thomas, the school of Lozada, will sponsor a Mass. There will also be a caravan for truth forum that will roll out in different universities.

“Kailangan suriin (ang mga isyu), mula doon ay kumilos. Hindi dapat magwalang bahala (Inspect issues, then act We should not take the events for granted),” Alvin ended.

Photo by Karla Peralta for DLSP Media Bureau

Green Archers, Blue Eagles exhibition game moved to 16 March (Update 3)

by Paul Darwynn Garilao, DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent
Update 3

The Green Archers and Blue Eagles basketball game at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City has been postponed to 16 March as requested by the coliseum's management because of the huge crowds expected to watch the friendly game and the Game 7 of the All-Filipino Cup between the Purefoods Giants and the Sta. Lucia Realtors, both supposed to be held on 2 March, Sunday.

The proceeds of the game dubbed as La Salle at Ateneo: Magkasangga para sa Katotohanan will go to the AMRSP Sanctuary Fund, a fund managed by the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines (AMRSP) for witnesses like, but not limited to, Jun Lozada.


Those who are interested to watch may reserve tickets through info@delasalle.ph (first-come, first-served basis).

Tickets prices are as follows:

Patron - 350.00

Lower box - 300.00

Upper A - 120.00

Upper B - 70.00

General Admission - 25.00

Lozada to speak in Kamalayan

ZTE deal whistle blower Jun Lozada will speak in Kamalayan, a monthly activity at De La Salle University-Manila, on 28 February at the Amphi Theater DLSU-M.

Graphics by Chris Alcantara, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent

AMRSP Statement on the Jun Lozada Case

Association of Major Religious Superiors of the Philippines (AMRSP) Statement on the Jun Lozada Case

“…and the Truth shall set you free!”

We thank God for having been given the rare privilege of taking an active part in the triumph of
truth over lies in a culture of fear and moral bankruptcy. We believe Jun Lozada is only an example of what is happening in our government institutions.

We humbly recognize that God, in His mysterious ways had made us His instrument in enabling Jun Lozada to come out with his historic revelation to the Press and to the Senate: we consider him a modern David confronting a Goliath.

Being with him these past days is a genuine spiritual experience – getting to know a man who
embodies what is best in the Filipino. We saw his courage unfolding before our eyes as he tried
to overcome his fears and apprehensions leading to his testimony before the Senate in unparalleled authenticity, courage, honesty, humility and unfailing courtesy.

As he spoke we began to realize with growing horror and increasing indignation the extent of
corruption that is systemic in our government bureaucracy and its toll on our suffering people who could actually live in well-being if the resources of this country were truly used for their good.

We recognize the important role of the media people in this critical moment of our country. We commend them for the support they have given to Jun Lozada and for their unrelenting pursuance of the truth.

It is unthinkable for us to imagine that this basic heroic act, that is putting Jun and his family not only in danger but in a state of dislocation that sees no immediate end, would be in vain.

We cannot go back to “business as usual.” We commit ourselves to pursue a crusade for TRUTH. We call on all sectors of society especially the Church to join us in this commitment.

Let us heed the call of the CBCP for communal action”

“Truth hurts. Truth reveals. But the truth must be served. The truth will set our country free.
Only the truth - not lies and deceit will set us free. This truth challenges us now to communal
action.”

Lasallians help carry out mass during 22nd People Power Anniversary

By Paul Darwynn Garilao, DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent
Update 2

Students and administrators from De La Salle University – Manila (DLSU-M) helped in organizing and carrying out the Mass for Truth and Accountability in commemoration of the EDSA People Power Revolution held at Baclaran Church last 25 February.

The Lasallian Pastoral Office and Committee on National Issues and Concerns are two groups from DLSU-M that helped in managing the logistics for the mass. Meanwhile, Dean of Student Affairs Voltaire Mistades, Student Publications Director Fritzie Paz de Vera, and Student Council President Noey Arcinue served as readers and commentators during the Mass. The DLSU Chorale rendered hymns.

In his homily delivered in Filipino, Fr. Joey Echano recalled the walkout staged by computer technicians who were then forced to manipulate the Snap Elections of 1986. The walkout was a springboard that jumpstarted the call for People Power I. But 22 years after, Fr. Joey said the country is still succumbed to truth decay. “Malala na masyado ang truth decay, kailangan natin ang katotohanan upang umunlad, (The truth decay is worst, we need to uphold the truth to succeed),” he said.

Fr. Joey furthered: “Kailangan ng katotohanan upang tayo ay umunlad. Walang tunay na kaunlaran kung walang katotohanan, [We need the truth to progress. There is no real progress if there is not truth]," Echano said. Aside from the ZTE controversy, the Baclaran priest challenged the public to also scrutinize other issues that the Arroyo Administration has been allegedly involved: Fertilizer Scam, Hello Garci issue, and other government transactions that are violating the constitution.

ZTE controversy whistle blower Joey Lozada, who spoke at the last part of the mass, turned sentimental as he shared his memories during EDSA Revolution. He urged the citizens to tell the truth, serve only the truth, and fight for the truth.

Some De La Salle Brothers who attended the Mass were DLSP and DLSU-M President Br. Armin Luistro FSC, La Salle Academy President Br. Dennis Magbanua FSC, De La Salle - College of St. Benilde President Br. Vic Franco FSC, and Br. Mike Valenzuela FSC.

The Truth will set you free. The fourth mass held at Baclaran commemorated the People Power Revolt (DLSP/Paul Darwynn Garilao).

Hot off the press. Wherever he goes, Jun Lozada is always followed by the Media (Donelle Gan, The La Sallian EIC 2005-06).

Clenched Fist. Participants of the Mass sang the Bayan Ko, a theme song during the EDSA Revolt (Donelle Gan).

Puppet. Outside the church, demonstrators show their disgust against the government through these graphics (DLSP/Paul Garilao).

Meanwhile, Dino de Leon, president of DLSU-M Debate Society, spoke to a crowd of young activists in Mendiola before the mass in Baclaran. Some student leaders from DLSU-M and De La Salle Araneta University participated in the rallies at Mendiola.

Related links:

Aquino Lozada lead “Mass for Truth and Accountability” (inquirer.net)

Thirsting for truth: A homily delivered by Fr. Danny Pilario, CM on 24 February 2008

THIRSTING FOR TRUTH: Mass for Truth, Accountability and Justice
Homily for the Third Sunday of Lent
John 4: 5-42: The Samaritan Woman
February 24, 2008
Adamson University, Manila

OF WATER, MOUNTAINS AND HUSBANDS

When I was asked to deliver this homily, I immediately read the Gospel for today. I was a bit frustrated. The reading is not only long; it also appears irrelevant. I asked myself how a seemingly harmless story of Jesus and a woman talking about water, mountains and husbands can be relevant to the current wave of disgust, anger and frustration growing among our people. I read it a second time and saw how it painfully strikes at the heart of the events that are happening in our midst. The story of the woman of Samaria is the story of us all – (1) the story of Jun Lozada; (2) the story of the woman in Malacañang; (3) also my story and yours.

PROBINSIYANONG INTSIK AND THE SAMARITAN WOMAN

Simulan natin kay Jun Lozada. Jun, nais ko sanang magpaalam kung maari ko pang dagdagan ang mga pangalang ibinigay na nila sa ‘yo. Hindi ka lang ‘probinsiyanong Intsik’ o katulad ng ‘crying lady’. Sa umagang ito ikaw ay magiging isang ‘Samaritan woman’. Forgive my cross-gender and cross-cultural references. Pero parang magkatapat na rin ang pakahulugan ng babaeng taga-Samaria at probinsiyanong Intsik. For the self-righteous Jews of Jesus’ time, Samaritans were mere ‘provincials’. Jerusalem was the center. Samaria was marginally far-off. But it was not only the geographical location. Samaritans also belonged to a disgusting breed that a good Jew needed to avoid. Kung buhay na si Apostol noon, matagal na silang na-deport!
But how did Jun become the Samaritan woman? Let me cite three ways.

First, the Samaritan woman was no saint. May tinatago siya sa kanyang buhay. Kung baga, ayaw niya ring mag-testify. Kung kaya tanghali siyang pumunta sa balon dahil wala pang mga tao doon! Wala pa doon ang mga tsismosa. Dahil sino ba sa atin ang nais na maging pulutan ng iba ang ating sariling buhay? Ganoon din si Jun. Kaya nga dumating siya sa oras na dapat wala ang media. Salamat na rin sa advice ni Atienza – dahil tulad ni Jun, may tinatago din siguro siya kahit sinasabi niyang tumutulong lang naman siya (tumutulong magtago).

Isa sa mga sinasabi ngayon ay ganito: “Bakit ba kayo naniniwala kay Lozada? Kasabwat din naman yan ah?” Jun, para sa akin, mas mabuti na lang kasabwat ka, dahil kung hindi ay sasabihin na naman nila, “wala namang alam yan eh, dahil hindi naman namin yan kasama.” And that is the storyline they are pursuing in the Ombudsman hearing: that you have left early on in the negotiation; that is why you do not know how it reached $329M. But above all, I thank God that you are not a ‘saint’ – that you had wallowed with them in the dark. It was the experience of that darkness that disposed you for the light. It must be really cold in Hongkong that you began to long for warmth. It must have been so lonely that you longed for home. It must have been so arid that you started to ask for water. Then, unexpectedly, you were led to the well. There, a man was waiting. Hindi po ‘yon si Atutubo! This brings me to my second point.

The Samaritan woman was thirsty but she did not really expect to see a man by the well. She was quite suspicious of Jews, much more of men. Her experience with the men in her life wasn’t good at all. Yet unlike other men, Jesus was so respectful of her. So, she had no choice but to listen. Without her knowing it, she began to pour out her emotions, lay open her whole life and her thirst.

Jun, you very well know at what point during these recent weeks you met that man at the well; the God who was so gentle with you that you had no choice but to open up and tell the truth. Since you acknowledged your thirst, God was able to pour the living water. Thank God you accepted your weakness, he was able to heal. Woe to those who pretend to be strong! (they call it ‘strong Republic’, ‘strong economic growth’); for them, no healing can happen. That well-staged ‘unity walk’ which was supposed to project a ‘strong cabinet’ was more a sign of a sad and threatened existence. For behind the smiles and seemingly confident strides of a blazing red outfit flanked by men in black was actually deep fear and panic.

Third, after that refreshing encounter by the well, the woman from Samaria was so fired up that she went out to tell others. That was not easy. People would now know the truth of her life: that she had five husbands and that the one she was living with at the moment was not one of them. The people would doubt her credibility. The enemies of Jesus could threaten her life. She would put to risk the safety and honor of her family. But she could not be stopped. What began as water in the well had turned to consuming fire. Jun, more than all of us here, you deeply know what this means.

SAMARITAN WOMAN AND THE WOMAN AT THE PALACE

I think the woman in Malacañang also came to the well. She was also confronted by Jesus. She was also told to go back and bring her husband along. For Jesus has even more questions for him. I can only imagine what she answered. Perhaps: “Nasa Hongkong pa po; nagpapa-accupuncture.” No one can really tell how she responded to the Lord’s questions for her in the depths of her conscience. That is between her and the Lord. We respect that.

But God’s voice can also be heard through the events of our nation’s life under her rule. Since the Garci controversy, we have already asked so many questions. If we believe that God speaks through his people, then GMA has not answered God yet. Unlike Jun or the Samaritan woman, the President walked away from the well. She refused to be accountable.

When the Garci tapes came out, she confessed on nationwide television, “I am sorry!” We thought it was truth coming out. But no; it was a carefully staged act. Because days after, she also said, “I did not do anything wrong.” We were asking then: so what was she sorry for? Soon, she unleashed all legal, administrative and military arsenal at her disposal – the ‘no permit, no rally’ policy, calibrated pre-emptive response and EO 464 – all in a week’s time. The clamor for truth and accountability in the impeachment process was drowned by promises of pork barrel disbursements and cash gifts. Garci could not be found, only to surface later as an ‘honorable’ candidate in the subsequent election! Only in the Philippines! The generals implicated in the tape were promoted; one even became the Chief of Staff. While those who wanted to tell the opposite side of the story like Gudani and Balutan, Lim and Querubin were either sacked or jailed! Gloria turned away from the man by the well.

Another chance came with the exposé of the fertilizer scam. Again, she let the opportunity pass her by. Sayang! Knowing that we have a government system that can trace the whereabouts and track the conversations of people it considers its enemies, we are expected to believe that Bolante could not be found? This government does not only steal from us; it grossly insults our intelligence as well!

Then God spoke to her again when the whole world was so concerned with the extrajudicial killings. But just the same, Gloria turned a deaf ear. Whatever happened to the findings of the Melo Commission? Did anyone of you know? How in the world can the President praise in front of the whole nation (in an official act like the State of the Nation address) the man directly implicated as responsible for these killings by the Commission she herself has created?

Then came a louder call from God: the ZTE Broadband deal. Now, she has really grown numb and callous. Everything has been done to drown God’s voice: from fake London seminars to a joy ride to Calamba and Dasmariñas; from forced affidavits to a 500,000-peso loan with neither collaterals nor signatures. The President has once more turned away from the man at the well.

I don’t know if Malacañang is listening to us today. I guess they are since cameras and sensors are all over Metro Manila. While others may cry foul at state surveillance, today I won’t really mind if they monitor us. Much better so that I can say what is in my heart directly to the heart of the palace.

“Madame President, I know that your heart still has a small space for unsolicited advice. Let me say this: God’s voice could not be drowned forever. We cannot just walk out on him every time he talks to us at our own wells. If you always turn a deaf ear, his messages might soon be seen as writings on the Malacañang walls. By then, I am afraid it might be too late for you.

Our people thirst for truth. They want you to be accountable and take responsibility. When I say ‘our people’, I do not mean the politicians – both from the opposition and the administration – nor the thoughtless and rapacious oligarchs who have made a mess of this country. I think the Lord does not so much listen to politicians. I am not even sure if He listens to bishops and priests. But He will always hear the cry of the poor. I mean the really poor who have nothing to eat tonight. This is what he promised, our responsorial psalm says.

So, Madame President, the more you exchange cash in paper bags in order to prop up your regime, the hungrier the poor become. In my ministry as a priest, I could no longer count how many times have I been called to bless beautiful children and infants in their improvised coffins, some even made of cardboard. If you ask why they died, their parents have a single refrain: “no money for the hospital”. Mrs. President, the more billions you and your men get from commissions, the more cardboard coffins we will see. Can your conscience tolerate this?

Let us no longer use their hunger and poverty to evade political accountability as you and your advisers have been doing. Huwag na po natin gamitin ang mga mahihirap. That you are concerned with putting food at the poor’s tables; that is why you have no time to waste on political noise. This is not political noise; this is about political accountability. For as our bishops already said: ‘Those who govern have the obligation to answer to the governed.’ Leaders who can’t be accountable should go. I repeat: they should go! For they are not worth the name.”

SAMARITAN WOMAN IN US

In the end, we know that there is also a Samaritan in all of us. The man named Jesus also appears at our own wells at some crossroads of our lives. And he also challenges us—as he did the Samaritan woman, Jun Lozada or the President—to stand up for truth, to speak for it whenever and wherever we are. A friend who is a young mother told me yesterday, that while she was reading the newspaper and watching her 5-month old child sleep, she said to herself, “I should come out and do something… anything… except be quiet and indifferent. For, in the future, I would like my child to know that I stood up for her today.”

I hope to see her in this church this morning.
Maybe this is the same reason why you are here today.
God bless us all. God bless our country!

Daniel Franklin Pilario, C.M.
Dean, St. Vincent School of Theology
221 Tandang Sora Ave., Quezon City

Adamson + Jun Lozada: Speak the truth

'Jun, ang buong Adamson ay nasa likod mo!' - Fr. Gregg

By Jay Calleja, DLSP Media Bureau Chief
Update 2

At least 1,000 truth seekers trooped to St. Vincent de Paul Parish along San Marcelino Street, Ermita, Manila to pray together for the triumph of truth and to show their support for NBN-ZTE star witness Jun Lozada in a service presided by Adamson University President Fr. Gregg Bañaga, Jr., CM on 24 February.

The mass is the 3rd installment of a series dubbed 'Misa para sa Katotohanan', after Eucharistic celebrations held at La Salle Green Hills (17 February) and Ateneo de Manila University (18 February). The schedule of masses and activities in the following days include:

25 February/3 pm/Mass at Baclaran Church
27 February/3 pm/Ecumenical service at St. Paul's University - Manila
29 February/4 pm/Protest action at Ayala Avenue
2 March/10 am/Mass at University of Sto. Tomas
9 March/10 am/Mass at De La Salle University - Manila

Representatives of the member-schools of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) and the South Manila Inter-Institutional Consortium (SMIIC) were also present.

Samaritan woman

Fr. Danny Pilario, CM's homily here

In his homily, Fr. Danny Pilario, CM added to the seemingly growing list of pseudonyms and nicknames related to the NBN-ZTE scandal being mentioned in media by calling Jun Lozada a 'Samaritan woman', citing similarities between the life stories of the engineer and the lady from Samaria mentioned in the Gospel - with both far from being saints, their unexpected encounters with God and the 'consuming fire' they experienced soon after.

Other nicknames that have caught the Nation's attention of late include 'probinsyanong Intsik', 'big boy' and 'George'.

In a sermon that did not mince words, Fr. Danny, Dean of the St. Vincent School of Theology, declared 'This government does not only steal from us, it grossly insults our intelligence as well!' This was said in the context of the apparent inability of the government to track Jocjoc Bolante, a government official implicated in another scandal dubbed the 'fertilizer scam', even with superior technology at its disposal that can, among others, tap into phone conversations. The priest from the Congregation of the Mission (CM) also warned the beleaguered president: 'God’s voice could not be drowned forever. We cannot just walk out on him every time he talks to us at our own wells. If you always turn a deaf ear, his messages might soon be seen as writings on the Malacañang walls. By then, I am afraid it might be too late for you.'

As an end to another stinging rebuke from a member of the clergy, he reminded the faithful that 'there is also a Samaritan in all of us...Jesus also appears at our own wells at some crossroads of our lives... and challenges us to stand up for truth, to speak for it whenever and wherever we are.' He shared the related sentiments of a friend that sprung while watching her 5-month old child sleep - 'I should come out and do something… anything… except be quiet and indifferent. For, in the future, I would like my child to know that I stood up for her today.'

Nothing but the TRUTH: Adamson University students participate in a communal action for truth (DLSP/Jay Calleja)

Seat of truth: Br. Armin Luistro FSC (blurred), Brother President of DLSU-M and DLSP, and NBN-ZTE star witness Jun Lozada exchange brief remarks as they share a pew with former president Corazon Aquino and Association of Major Religious Superiors of the Philippines (AMRSP) co-chair Sr. Mary John Mananzan, OSB. (DLSP/Jay Calleja)

Carrying on: Br. Mike Valenzuela FSC, former lead convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission Ging Deles with other members of the civil society pray with the community. (DLSP/Jay Calleja)

Daughters of Charity: Sr. Corazon Manalo DC, DLSP National Mission Council member, with other members of the Daughters of Charity congregation. (DLSP/Jay Calleja)

Adamson in green: Members of the Adamson University community wear green ribbons, the pins that have now taken the symbolism of a Nation's search for truth. (DLSP/Jay Calleja)

Exterminate who?: Artistic forms of protest have turned to t-shirts bearing slogans such as this, a take on Sec. Neri's alleged instruction to Jun Lozada to 'moderate their greed'. (DLSP/Jay Calleja)

Catholic schools in Taft Ave. stage noise barrage

by Paul Darwynn Garilao, DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent

More than 200 protesters from De La Salle University - Manila (DLSU-M), De La Salle College of St. Benilde, and St. Scholastica College (SSC) staged a noise barrage last 22 February along Taft Ave. in support of upholding the truth and "stamping out corruption in the government".

Dubbed as Busina para sa Katotohanan, the participants produced different sounds from beating drums to blowing whistles. Moreover, they also convinced the motorists to blew their horns.

While the DLSU-M participants gathered in front of their campus, those who came from DLS CSB and SSC stretched a line from Jolibee-Taft to Tapa King in Estrada St.

Noise Barrage. Protesters convinced the motorists to blow their horns (DLSP/Paul Garilao)

Candle lighting ceremony. Participants paraded their candles and banners in front of DLSU-M (DLSP/Paul Garilao).

The protesters who are composed of students, faculty, personnel, and church officials gathered for a prayer vigil right after the noise barrage. Similar to what happened in La Sale Green Hllls last Sunday, the participants recited the Lasallian prayer and sang Bayan Ko.

Meanwhile, series of noise barrage were also held in University of Sto Tomas in Espana and Ateneo de Manila University in Katipunan, QUezon City. A noise barrage was also organized in

University of St. La Salle (USLS) dubbed as Busina nga naga pangita sang kamatuoran (Busina Para sa Katotohanan).

ANG PANAWAGAN NG PAMILYANG LASALYANO NG DASMARIÑAS, CAVITE

21 February 2008 DLSU-D Pebrero 18, 2008 ANG PANAWAGAN NG PAMILYANG LASALYANO NG DASMARIÑAS, CAVITE Tayo ngayon ay nalalagay sa panahon ng kaguluhan, korupsyon at kawalan ng katapatan mula sa pinakamataas na antas ng ating gobyerno. Ang mapayapa, demokratiko at tapat na paghahanap sa katotohanan at hustisya ng sambayanang Pilipino ay sistematikong sinusugpo, hinahadlangan o di kaya’y binabaluktot upang mapanatiling nasa kadiliman ang taumbayan. Ang hinaing at panawagan sa katotohanan at hustisya ay hindi bulong lamang ng iilan sa kawalan. Ngayon, ay lalo pang dumarami ang mga sektor ng lipunan na kumikilos upang mailabas ang katotohanan at makamit ang hustisya. Kasama ng mga tapat na opisyal ng gobyerno at ang mga grupo mula sa iba’t-ibang sektor ng lipunan (ang mga relihiyoso, kabataan, estudyante, guro, manggagawa at mga naisasantabi tulad ng mga maralitang taga-lungsod at iba pa), kaming mga miyembro ng Pamilyang Lasalyano sa Dasmariñas, Cavite, gabay ng mga dakilang aral ni San Juan Bautista De La Salle at mga Prinsipyong Gabay ng Pamilyang Lasalyano, ay nakikiisa sa panawagan para sa katotohanan, katapatan, at pananagutan ng mga tiwaling opisyal sa pamahalaan. Kami ay nananawagan sa: 1) Kataas-taasang Hukuman upang agarang resolbahin ang isyu ukol sa temporary restraining order na ipinataw nito upang ipahinto ang pag-imbita kay Kalihim Neri na magsalita sa Senado ukol sa mga nalalaman nito sa ZTE – NBN Deal; 2) Senado na ipagpatuloy ang pagdinig sa ZTE – NBN Deal at iba pang mga anomalyang kinasasangkutan ng rehimen ni Gloria Macapagal – Arroyo upang malaman at panagutin ang mga tiwaling opisyal na nagkasala sa sambayanang Pilipino; 3) Sambayanang Pilipino na sumama at makilahok sa mga mapayapa at demokratikong pagkilos, mobilisasyon at pagbubuklod-buklod hanggang sa makamit natin ang matagal na nating minimithi: katotohanan; hustisya; maka-tao, makabayan at maka-Diyos na panunungkulan. KATOTOHANAN AT HUSTISYA PARA SA KAPAYAPAAN MAMULAT, MAKIISA AT KUMILOS! • Social Transformation through Advocacy and Reforms (STAR) Committee • Faculty Association (FA) • University Student Council (USC) • Council of Student Organizations (CSO) • Kabalikat ng DLSU-D (KND) – (DLSU-D employees association) • Parents of La Salle Cavite (POLCA)

DLSAU turns 62: One Green, One Dream, La Salle Araneta Hataw Na

by Tinig News Agency

De La Salle Araneta University (DLSAU) reached another milestone as it celebrated its 62nd year of existence last January 26 – 31, 2008. This year’s theme: One Green, One Dream La Salle Araneta Hataw Na.

The DLSAU community engaged in traditional and con­temporary activities during the entire celebration.

The weeklong festivity start­ed on January 26, 2008 through a mass celebration held at the university cha­pel with Rev. Fr. Salvador Curuchet as the mass celebrant. The formal opening of the exhibit then followed.

The exhibit featured the lives of the university’s two great founders Dr. Salvador Z. Araneta and St. John Baptist De La Salle. Br. Ricky P. Laguda, University Presi­dent, led the ribbon cutting ceremony.

The celebration of the Teach­ers’ Day took place at the Golden Pa­vilion after the mass. The Supreme Student Council and SAMPISAN­AN (of the College Department) and the Supreme Student Govern­ment (of the Basic Education Department) spearheaded the 2008 Teachers Day celebration.

One of the highlights of the Teachers’ Day celebration was the Wellness Program wherein some students from the Basic Education Department (BED), who underwent training through their Technol­ogy and Livelihood Economics subject, pampered the teachers.

The BED conducted their Family Day on January 27.

The Foundation week celebration also featured a two-day variety show on Jan. 28-29 entitled The “Kant-Sayawan”. The “Kant-Sayawan” music and dance fest held band and dance competitions both for the high school and for college levels.

The Parade and Review and the Presentation of Spon­sors were held in the morning of the fourth day at the university parade grounds. Fifteen young men and women were presented as sponsors of the Cadet Offi­cers. Dr. Ernesto Adalem, Chair­man of the Board of Trustees
of Schools, served as the Guest Speaker.

The fifth day of fes­tivity started with a parade of students and faculty from the BED and College Department. The parade started at the DL­SAU main gate, went around Bagong Lote, Caloocan, and ended at the university pa­rade ground to commence the field demonstration that fea­tured different dance presenta­tions from selected students.

At 9:00AM, Janu­ary 31 the commemoration of Dr. Salvador Araneta’s 106th Birthday was held. The trib­ute commenced through a mass celebration followed by the Wreath Laying and Gun Salute held at the university covered walk where Dr. Ara­neta’s monument is located.

A memorial lecture then followed at the Rizal Hall. After the memorial lec­ture, a Testimonial Lunch took place at the DLSAU Pavilion. Administrators, faculty and staff attended the said program. Sev­eral awards were given including the first President’s Award for Excellence, which was award­ed to Dr. Roberto Z. Calica.

In the evening, the Rock and Fashion Concert was held at the university Golden Pavil­ion. The event showcased per­formances from guests and home grown bands. A fashion show also took place featuring the DLSAU students donning clothes from the Bratt Apparel. The students’ night followed.

La Salle College Antipolo holds dinner for scholarship fund

Antipolo, Rizal - The La Salle College Antipolo (LSCA) sponsored Dinner for a Cause, a fund raising activity that aims to provide Lasallian education to young people of Rizal, held last 15 February at the St. La Salle Hall.

The beneficiaries of the scholarship fund are the Br. Francis Cody scholars, athletic and academic scholars, as well as students from Night High school.

Hotel and Restaurant Management students from LSCA served the food, which costs 1,500 per plate. Meanwhile student artists from Night High school , Guitar Music Ministry (high school students), and Wind and String Company (high school and grade school students) rendered special performances to the crowd.

Among those who graced the dinner were students, personnel, local politicians, and church leaders.

The activity also culminated LSCA's celebration of its foundation week with the theme Celebrating Oneness in 22 years.

With reports from Br. Marco Macatangay FSC, LSCA Vice Chancellor for Missions
Photo by Nonoi Maralit, DLSP Media Bureau Correspondent

National Survey: DLS-CSB graduates get hired fast

Mary Tan, The Benildean Reporter

Based on the national survey done by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) ranked second highest among 35 other colleges in terms of employability rate.

DLS-CSB Special Assistant to the President Mr. Neil Pariñas said, “Based on the presentation of the Secretary of Labor and Employment last 2005, the graduates of the University of the Philippines get hired the fastest in one to two months time. DLS-CSB graduates get hired faster second.”

“DOLE and CHED required us to do a survey among the graduates of DLS-CSB from school year 2000-2001 to 2003-2004, which we submitted to them. Among those graduates, 633 of them complied,” he shared.

Survey Says

Based on the survey, 31% of the total respondents are officials, executives, managers, or supervisors, and 43% of them have a median annual salary of 210,000 pesos. As Pariñas said, “Most of the people who answered the survey are fresh graduates, but their salaries are already high.”

When the respondents were asked which personal and academic background made them employable, most answered factors like personality, competencies learned in school, and the reputation of DLS-CSB. “So even the employers have trust in our school,” Pariñas added.

Also, the employability rate of DLS-CSB students is not dependent on the place of residence, civil status, age and year graduated. 78% of the respondents are very satisfied with their jobs and 43% say that their first jobs are related to their course in DLS-CSB.

Final Words

"I think it is about knowing what you want in life and pursuing it. Control the things in your control, and pray for the things beyond your control." Pariñas said. "It’s about knowing your purpose. If you’re given the opportunity, you have to give your best. In the long process, it’s not about money but your own happiness."

Pariñas compared DLS-CSB to a flashlight. “The flashlight has a dispersed light when turned on. But when the light concentrated, it becomes laser that can be used to operate on people or even cut through metal. DLS-CSB is currently a flashlight, and we must do everything we can in order to concentrate that light and become a laser.” He added that "We have the resources; all you have to do is to do well—to give your best, and we can shine."

Lasallian brothers fight for truth, justice

By Rap Sta. Cruz, The Benildean Reporter

The District Justice and Peace Commission of the Philippine Lasallian Family and Solidarity Philippines held a prayer rally in front of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Taft campus last February 7, as support to Rodolfo Noel Lozada Jr’s courage in revealing the anomalies involving high government officials.

Several Church groups, student representatives, administrators and employees also joined the candle-lighting ceremony for truth and accountability.

Nation of liars?

“My real, real concern is we have really become a nation of liars and we have become very comfortable,” De La Salle Philippines President Br. Armin Luistro FSC said. “I’m not talking of little white lies; I am talking of a national consciousness that has become very used to and comfortable with other people’s lies.”

Students' role

Br. Victor Franco FSC, DLS-CSB President, said that he wants to increase the awareness and involvement of students in national issues. “We would certainly want to make sure that all Benildean students know the issues of the day, understand them and make their own choices,” he said.

“There are people who are willing to stand up for the truth. If people like Jun Lozada can do it, then we all need to do it as a sign of hope for the people,” Br. Vic added. He also encourages the students to find the role that they have in helping our country achieve true democracy.

Call for action

Solidarity Philippines calls on the Filipino faithful to make use of the Lenten Season as a time for critical reflection.

A statement released by the group said that “We vow to continue to pray and act in solidarity with the Filipino people in demanding the Arroyo administration to account for all its acts of corruption and violence that have subordinated the common good to their own good.”

Benildeans triumph at SEA Games

By Wilfred Jotojot and Jay Palces, The Benildean reporters

In the midst of strong competition against fellow neighboring countries, two Benildeans took home medals during the 24th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games held last December 6 to 16 at Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand .

In her field of taekwondo, Kirstie Elaine Alora bagged the silver medal in the women's 59kg category.

The 18-year old featherweight withstood tough competition amidst rumors of game-fixing before and during the tournament proper.

“Sa Thailand, sobrang kabado ako kasi nababalita na maraming dayaan na nangyayari. Kabado rin ako kasi baka ako ‘yung mapiling dayain, pero hindi ko na masyado inisip ‘yun. Nag-focus lang talaga ako, “ Alora said.

After disposing her opponents from Laos and Thailand, the 2005 Manila SEA games gold medalist entered into a finals rematch against long-time rival Hoai Thu Nguyen Thi of Vietnam.

Both jins were already familiar with each other’s game as they have fought twice in different occasions. In their first meeting, Alora crushed Thi for the gold during the 2005 SEA Games. However, Thi got back at the Filipina during the 2008 Olympic Games’ Asian qualifying stage to deny her of a stint at the Beijing Olympics.

Unfortunately, it was Thi who emerged victorious and defeated Alora, 5-3 for the gold medal in Thailand. Despite of the loss, Alora maintained that the match was fairly officiated and that the Vietnamese did improve her game.

The Export Management major started to play the sport when she was only six years old and has come a long way since then.

Since joining the national team when she was in third year high school, the featherweight has also appeared in other international tournaments like the World Championships, Asian Championships and Asian Games.

She did not have a hard time in choosing De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), also known for its excellent sports programs, as her college.

“Marami akong friends sa taekwondo na nag-aaral dito tapos nandito rin ‘yung gusto kong course [Export Management],” the Laguna native explained.

Alora could only thank the Benildean community and coaches Roberto Cruz and Stephen Fernandez for her victory.

The first dan black belter promises to further hone her skills as she prepares for her first National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) tournament and to achieve her dreams of becoming a world and Olympic champion someday.

Team Philippines finished sixth, their worst in history, in the 10-country bi-annual tourney pitting the best athletes in Southeast Asia. They collected a total of 42 golds, 90 silvers and 96 bronzes.

Alora will now see action in the NCAA as the DLS-CSB taekwondo team, last season’s champions, will defend their crown against other high caliber squads in the NCAA as the taekwondo games will be staged here at DLS-CSB on February 24.

Gerodias glitters in dance sport

Dearlie Gerodias also brought home pride to the Benildean community after winning one bronze and two silver medals in the dance sport category at Wongchawalitkul University, Thailand.

“Overwhelmed ako kasi second time ko na ‘tong nanalo sa SEA Games at na-retain ‘yung title namin,’ said Gerodias.

The fourth year, taking up Computer Applications, was first known for her stellar performance at the 23rd SEA Games, wherein she won silver for the Latin American Dance Paso category.

After winning the said tournament, many other competitions came her way and she kept on winning that’s why pressure was on her side when the 24^th SEA Games was coming near.

A cross training was done for her and her partner, John Erolle Melencio, to double their there flexibility and to build up their stamina in the upcoming competition.

“We did gymnastics and pilates tapos for our stamina, me and my partner did swimming and jogging tapos five dances everyday,” said Gerodias.

Gerodias performed in three dances—Paso Doble, Jive and Samba—where she got a medal for each performance. She won her first silver in Paso Doble, one of her favorite dances, her second silver in Jive, and a bronze in Samba.

The feat helped place Philippines as 6th overall in the dance sport field.

Thailand was one of the countries who started the dance sport, they are the one that introduced it and the Philippines started ten years after, which is why they were the greatest competition by the Philippines.

In every dance sport competition, the judges are given only one minute and thirty seconds to judge and rank the six dancing couples in the dance floor. Every couple should give their best within that time limit.

“Dancing from the heart. Iyon ‘yung wala ‘yung ibang kalaban namin. They were very technical sa bawat dance moves kaya nakikita mo na walang masyadong emotion,” remarked Gerodias.

Training is the key to every competition but still, pressure was overcoming her because the 2nd trimester finals in the College coincided with the competition proper.

“It was a lot of hard work kasi during that time, I was taking up major subjects tapos finals week pa and ang daming final project deadlines,” Gerodias recalled.

All her hard work and training paid off after collecting a total of three medals.

A competition like SEA Games is not just contending with other nations; it is a chance for the athletes to represent the best of what their country has to offer. That is why winning in this kind of competition is an overwhelming opportunity and honor for us Filipinos.

Br. Felipe testifies before Senate

Lasallian Family continues support for Lozada

by Chris Alcantara, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent
Update 2

Br. Felipe Belleza, Jr. FSC, Brother President of La Salle Green Hills (LSGH), testified during the resumption of the hearing on the National Broadband Network (NBN) - ZTE controversy and the alleged abduction of star witness Jun Lozada at the Philippine Senate on 18 February.

The 'Brothers at La Salle Green Hills have been providing sanctuary to the Lozada family because of their urgent need. The Lozadas went to us because there was an imminent threat to their lives.', according to Br. Felipe. He also presented a chronology of events related to Lozada's arrival at LSGH on 5 February. [Related article here] 'I am executing this statement to attest to the truth, and request that it form part of the records of this investigation.', said the Ilonggo, as noted by Inquirer.net.

Students, faculty, staff, Brothers and administrators from De La Salle University – Manila (DLSU–M) and De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde (DLS–CSB) showed their support for Lozada and Br. Felipe, arriving together at the Senate a few minutes after 9 am. While engaged in a conversation with the NBN-ZTE whistleblower, Pam Belen, a DLSU-Manila student leader, gave him a green ribbon pin to wear during the hearing. The green ribbon pin signifies support for Lozada and the fight for truth.

Back at DLSU-M, the Center for Social Action and Concern (COSCA) and the Lasallian Pastoral Office (LSPO) led the community in prayer by holding a rosary vigil for the duration of the hearing.

Photo by Francis Garucho, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent

Related links:

1. For the rundown of accounts, refer to the following link.
2. Prayer warriors giving strength to Lozada.

"Reclaiming our humanity", a mass for Jun Lozada

"RECLAIMING OUR HUMANITY" by Fr. Manoling Francisco, SJ


A Homily delivered during the Mass for Mr. Jun Lozada
St. Benilde Gym, La Salle Green Hills
17 February 2008

On this Second Sunday of Lent, during which we are asked to reflect on the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ, I wish to touch on three themes that have to do with our moral transformation as a people: first, Ascertaining Credibility; second, Rediscovering our Humanity; and third, Witnessing to the Truth. In so doing, I hope to invite all of you to reflect more deeply on how we, as a nation, might respond to the present political crisis in which our identity and ethos, our convictions and integrity, in fact, who we are as a people, are at stake.

I. ASCERTAINING CREDIBILITY

Jun, as Sen. Miriam Santiago has grilled you to ascertain your credibility (or was it to undermine your credibility?), allow me to raise some important questions to consider in the very process of discerning your credibility.

Allow me to do so by drawing on my own counseling experience. Very often, a young rape victim initially suppresses his or her awful and painful story, indeed wills to forget it, in the hope that by forgetting, he or she can pretend it never happened. But very often, too, there comes a point when concealing the truth becomes unbearable, and the desperate attempts to supposedly preserve life and sanity become increasingly untenable.

At this point the victim of abuse decides to seek help. But even after having taken this step, the victim, devastated and confused, will tell his or her story with much hesitation and trepidation. It should be easy to imagine why. In telling the truth, one risks casting shame on himself or herself, subjecting oneself to intense scrutiny and skepticism, and jeopardizing one's safety and those of his or her loved ones, especially when one dares to go up against an older or more powerful person.

Similarly, it is easy to imagine why Jun would initially refuse to challenge the might of Malacanang. Who in his or her right mind would accuse Malacanang of crimes against our people and implicate the First Family in a sordid tale of greed and corruption, knowing that by doing so, one endangers one's life and the lives of his or her loved ones?

We are, after all, living in dangerous times, where the government has not hesitated to use everything in its power to keep itself in power, where it has yet to explain and solve the numerous cases of extra-judicial killings. But Jun is in his right mind. His story rings true especially in the face of the perils that he has had to face. And by his courage, Jun has also shown that it is not only that he is in his right mind; his heart is also in the right place. Hence, my personal verdict: Jun, I believe that you are a credible witness.

And if hundreds have gathered here this morning, it is probably because they also believe in you. Mga kapatid, naniniwala ba kayo kay Jun Lozada? Naniniwala ba kayo sa kanyang testimonya? Kung gayon, palakpakan po natin ang Probinsyanong Intsik, si Mr. Jun Lozada.Jun, we hope that by our presence here, you may find some consolation. Pope Benedict XVI writes that "con-solatio" or consolation means "being with the other in his or her solitude, so that it ceases to be solitude." Jun, be assured that your solitude is no longer isolation as we profess our solidarity with you. Hindi ka nag-iisa. We are committed to stay the course and to do our best to protect you and your family and the truth you have proclaimed.

II. REDISCOVERING OUR HUMANITY

What makes Jun a credible witness to us? I think Jun is credible not simply by virtue of his being an eyewitness to the unmitigated greed of some of our public officials. Perhaps more importantly, Jun is credible because he has witnessed to us what it means to be truly human.Which leads me to my second theme: What does it mean to be human? How might we rediscover our humanity?

Allow me to quote Pope Benedict XVI, who in his latest encyclical, Spe Salvi, has written: "the capacity to accept suffering for the sake of goodness, truth and justice is an essential criterion of humanity, because if my own well-being and safety are ultimately more important than truth and justice, then the power of the stronger prevails, then violence and untruth reign supreme. Truth and justice must stand above my comfort and physical well-being, or else my life becomes a lie. . .for this, we need witnesses-martyrs...We need them if we are to prefer goodness to comfort, even in the little choices we face each day."Our Holy Father concludes, "the capacity to suffer for the sake of the truth is the measure of humanity."

Isn't this the reason we emulate our martyrs: Jose Rizal, Gomburza, Evelio Javier, Macli-ing Dulag, Cesar Climaco and Ninoy Aquino? They have borne witness for us what it means to be truly human-to be able to suffer for the sake of others and for the sake of the truth.I remember Cory recalling a conversation she had with Ninoy while they were in exile in Boston. Cory asked Ninoy what he thought might happen to him once he set foot in Manila.

Ninoy said there were three possibilities: one, that he would be rearrested and detained once more in Fort Bonifacio; two, that he would be held under house arrest; and three, that he would be assassinated. "Then why go home?" Cory asked. To which Ninoy answered: "Because I cannot allow myself to die a senseless death, such as being run over by a taxi cab in New York. I have to go home and convince Ferdinand Marcos to set our people free."Witnessing to one's deepest convictions, notwithstanding the consequences, is the measure of our humanity. Proclaiming the truth to others, whatever the cost, is the mark of authentic humanity. Jun, we know you have feared for your life and continue to do so. But in transcending your fears for yourself and your family, you have reclaimed your humanity. And your courage and humility, despite harassment and calumniation by government forces, embolden us to retrieve and reclaim our humanity tarnished by our cowardice and complicity with sin in the world.

You have inspired us to be true to ourselves and to submit to and serve the truth that transcends all of us.

III. WITNESSING TO THE TRUTH

This leads us to our third and last theme: witnessing to the truth. In his encyclical, Pacem in Terris, Pope John XXIII exhorts that it is the fundamental duty of the government to uphold the truth: "A political society is to be considered well-ordered, beneficial and in keeping with human dignity if it grounded on truth."

Moreover, the encyclical explains that unless a society is anchored on the truth, there can be no authentic justice, charity and freedom. Every government is therefore obliged to serve the truth if it is to truly serve the people. Its moral credibility and authority over a people is based on the extent of its defense of and submission to the truth. Insofar as a government is remiss in upholding the truth, insofar as a government actively suppresses the truth, it loses its authority vested upon it by the people. At this juncture, allow me to raise a delicate question: At what point does an administration lose its moral authority over its constituents?

First, a clear tipping point is the surfacing of hard evidence signifying undeniable complicity of certain government officials in corruption and injustice, evidence that can be substantiated in court. Hence, during the Marcos Regime, the manipulation of Snap Election results as attested to by the tabulators who walked out of the PICC was clear evidence of the administration's disregard for and manipulation of the collective will of the people in order to remain in power.

During the Erap Administration, the testimony of Clarissa Ocampo, claiming that Pres. Erap had falsified Equitable Bank documents by signing as Jose Velarde, was the smoking gun that triggered the rage of our people. Allow me to respond to the same question by pursue an alternative track of argument: an administration loses it moral authority over its people when it fails in its fundamental duty to uphold the truth, when it is constituted by an ethos of falsehood.

When a pattern of negligence in investigating the truth, suppressing the truth and harassing those who proclaim the truth is reasonably established, then a government, in principle, loses its right to rule over and represent the people.

Regarding negligence: Do the unresolved cases, such as the the failed automation of the national elections, the fertilizer scam, the extra-judicial killings, and the "Hello, Garci" scandal, constitute negligence on the part of the GMA Administation to probe and ferret out the truth? Regarding covering-up the truth: Does the abduction of Jun Lozada and the twisting and manipulation of his narrative by Malacanang's minions constitute concealment of the truth? Was the padlocking of the office of Asst. Gov't Counsel Gonzales who testified before the Senate regarding the North Rail project anomaly an instance of covering-up the truth?

Regarding the suppression of the truth: Does the issuance and implementation of E.O. 464, which prevents government officials from testifying in Senate hearings without Malacanang's permission, constitute suppression of the truth? Was the prevention of AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Senga and six other officers from testifying before the Senate with regard the "Hello, Garci" scandal tantamount to a suppression of the truth?

Was disallowing Brig. Gen. Quevedo, Lt. Col Capuyan and Lt. Col. Sumayo from appearing before the Lower House an instance of hindering the truth from surfacing?And regarding harassment of those who proclaim the truth: Are the abduction of Jun Lozada and the decision to court-marshall Gen. Gudani and Col. Balutan for disregarding Malacanang's order not to testify before the Senate examples of punishing those who come forth to tell the truth?

By conflating one's responses to all these questions does one arrive not at hard evidence showing culpapility on the part of some government officials, but a ghestalt, an image which nonetheless demands our assessment and judgment. I invite all of you then to consider these two methods of evaluating and judging the moral credibility of any government, the moral credibility of our present government. Allow me to end with a few words about an Ignatian virtue, familiaritas cum Deo. To become familiar with God involves the illumination of the intellect, coming to know who God is and what God wills. But it also involves the conversion of the affect, the reconfiguration of the heart.

Becoming familiar with God entails trasforming and conforming my thinking, my feeling and my doing in accordance to the Lord's, which can only be the work of grace. Familiarity with God thus entail rejoicing in what God delights-the truth; abhoring what God detests-falsehood; being pained by what breaks the heart of God-the persecution of truth-seekers. Familiary with God means sharing the passion of God for the truth and the pathos of God whenever the truth and the bearers of truth are overcome by the forces of the lie.

On this Second Sunday of Lent, as we contemplate the transfiguration of Jesus Christ on Mount Horeb, we pray that our hearts and minds be so transfigured and so conformed to the mind, heart and will of the Jesus, our way, our life, and our truth. May the Lord bless and protect you, Jun, and your family. May the Lord bless and guide us all into the way of truth. Amen.

Photo by Francis Garucho, DLSP Media Bureau Student Correspondent