In light of what is transpiring in the Philippines at the moment, I am posting this article instead of the one I originally intended entitled, "The First Filipino Americans." At present, our mother country faces yet another trial. The newly instated President Arroyo declared Manila in a "state of rebellion." For most of us here in abroad, our comprehension hardly scratches the surface on the gravity of the matter. At the same time, I think Filipinos bear strong ties to their motherland more than most other immigrants. No matter how long they have been residing abroad, despite the fact they've changed citizenship, there is still great concern for the country from whence they came.
The young democratic government seems vulnerable and fragile at the moment. However, do not underestimate the power of prayers. If there ever was someone who wants proof if prayers are answered, they have only to come to the Philippines or read on our modern history of the People Power.
During my stay in the Philippines from 1988 to 1994, I've seen how a great many trials from the 1990 Earthquake, to the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo, the devastating flood of Ormoc and the consistent and dismaying circus of the politicians, have never failed to turn the Filipino people to prayers. There is a great air of spirituality and an amazing display of humanity in the nation amid strife. As an observer and sometimes outsider, I felt this as if it were a tangible thing. My heritage aside, I am a great admirer of the Filipinos for their resiliency and optimism. "Bahala na ang Diyos," or "God will provide" is a phrase often said and basically sums up the faith of the people.
Now, for the first time since the Philippines regained her freedom form the dictator, there has been violence, as we have not seen before. The politicians whom the people had entrusted their well-being have once again betrayed them by prioritizing their own personal interest and self-aggrandizement. Be concerned, but pray. For recent developments have shown how Filipinos once again turn stones into bread. Yes, there is something good that came out of this. The religious sects that have been previously divided in our country are unifying under the present state of chaos. Eddie Villanueva of the Jesus Is Lord movement has been attending mass given by Cardinal Sin. Born Agains, Protestants, and Catholics congregated at a mass together at the Edsa Shrine and held a prayer rally at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.
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