The tapestry of Philippine history is woven with threads of faith, conquest, resilience, and intellectual pursuit. Within this complex narrative, few figures cast as long a shadow as Miguel de Benavides y Añoza, O.P. His name is inextricably linked with the establishment of one of Asia’s most venerable institutions, yet his influence extends far beyond…
The Philippines, an archipelago brimming with diverse cultures and traditions, possesses a sonic landscape as rich and varied as its islands. Deep within this tapestry of sound lies Kulintang, a vibrant and ancient musical tradition centered around a traditional musical instrument of the Philippines that resonates with the history and spirit of its people, particularly…
The Philippines boasts a rich and complex social fabric, woven with threads of tradition, resilience, and community spirit. Central to maintaining harmony and security within this dynamic society are various figures and concepts embodying protection, guardianship, and mutual support. Among these, Sandig, Kawal, and Tanods stand out, each representing distinct yet interconnected facets of community…
Dawn of a New Era, Shadow of the Past The EDSA Revolution of February 1986 stands as a watershed moment in Philippine history. Millions of Filipinos, fueled by decades of discontent under Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s authoritarian rule, converged on Epifanio de los Santos Avenue in a stunning display of non-violent People Power. The air crackled…
Introduction Isabelo de los Reyes y Florentino, affectionately known as Don Belong, stands as one of the most complex, dynamic, and influential figures in Philippine history. His life journey traversed an astonishing array of fields, leaving an indelible mark on each. He was not merely one thing, but many: a pioneering journalist giving voice to…
Introduction: Seeds of Inequality in Paradise Before the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 and the subsequent colonization by Miguel López de Legazpi starting in 1565, the Philippine archipelago was a tapestry of diverse, self-governing communities known as barangays. Led by datus or chieftains, these societies possessed their own distinct social structures. While hierarchy existed…
I. Introduction Imagine walking through a verdant Philippine forest. Do you pause, almost instinctively, before passing a towering, ancient balete tree, whispering a quiet “tabi-tabi po” (excuse me, please pass)? Or consider the simple gesture of pagmamano, pressing an elder’s hand to one’s forehead – could this profound act of respect echo millennia of ancestral…
I. Introduction Imagine a language echoing through the highlands of Mindanao, carrying the stories, traditions, and identity of a unique Filipino community – this is the Banwaon language. It’s more than just a collection of words; it’s a living vessel holding generations of wisdom, cultural practices, and the very soul of the Banwaon people. The…
I. Introduction A Portrait of Loss Imagine wading through murky, chest-deep water, the stench of sewage and decay thick in the air. Your home, a sanctuary built with years of hard work, is submerged. Floating remnants of life – a child’s toy, a family portrait, fragments of furniture – drift past, stark symbols of disruption….