Contents… (Hyperlinked: Hold Control and click on page number to go directly to the article)

2 AFPSI Plans Splash for 35th

Anniversary

Association to host PEACE and the UPMASA SI-MO Chapter in a musical extravaganza.

3 Conners Head AFPSI Again. This devoted couple are recycled to head the 34-year old society by popular demand.

5 Dr. Renato Rivera Leads 5th

Surgical Mission Mostly unheralded here, Dr. Rivera and his team win wide acclaim in the Philippines especially in Bohol.

7 AFPSI Conducts Science Scholarship Quiz Show XXXII (Urbano A. Dauz, MD) The celebrated annual event went smoothly this time garnering high praise from teachers, students and parents.

11 Retired Nurses Elect Officers Hardy nurses from Monroe County, IL continue to prosper.

12 Castro Founds St. Louis Knights of Rizal Chapter Concerned about the distance between two cities, Sir Juan Castro forms his own KOR Chapter.

15 Christ Philippine Missions Special College Fund Grant from a benevolent church couple boosts support for college scholars and addresses specific needs.

16 “I Shall Return” by Cosme R. Cagas Coming out Soon The historical novel will be available in hard and soft covers in the next several weeks. See cover design inside.

17 Discriminatory Experiences in Mississippi (Augustus P. Soriano, MD) This fighting IMG recounts racism and discrimination that he and his family have endured in the Deep South.

21 Profile in Courage: Augustus P. Soriano, MD (Cosme R. Cagas, MD) Behind Gus’ guts and gumption lie courage so deep and spirit so indomitable as to set his resolve ever strong and

his moral compass steadily straight north.

24 Advice to a Medical Graduate (Eusebio C. Kho, MD) Graduation is the beginning of a long climb and the graduate’s obligation does not end with patient care.

\ 26 Reflections on a Fallen Leader (Ulysses M. Carbajal, MD) A vocal critic became a friend of the late dictator Marcos.

33 A Lesson from Marcos’ Life (Ulysses M. Carbajal, MD)

The poet seeks forgiveness for his friend and keeps faith that he will perhaps see him again.

34 Haiku and Tanka Harvest by Victor P. Gendrano Objective Haiku invites different interpretations; subjective Tanka, serves as a catharctic for this poet.

35 Lost in Shangri-La by Mitchell Zuckoff Dr. David M. Conner is absolutely awed by airborne Filipinos soldiers tasked a suicidal mission.

The ILLINI

Official Publication of the Association of Filipino Physicians in Southern Illinois

Volume III, Fall-Winter, 2012

AFPSI Plans Splash

for 35TH

Anniversary

Dr. David M. Conner, AFPSI president and Elcee Cagas Conner,

Auxiliary president, speaking before members and guests at a

Chinese dinner in Carlyle, IL, immediately following the Science

Quiz Show XXXII (see related article this issue), poured out the

plans for the spring of 2013, the thirty fifth anniversary of the

association’s founding.

For the first time in its history, AFPSI will host two organizations,

the Southern Illinois-Missouri Chapter of the UPMASA and the

Philippine Economic and Cultural Endowment (PEACE, USA). At

the suggestion of Dr. Necita Lloren Roa, president of the UPMASA

chapter, the three will hold jointly a musical song and dance

extravaganza called “Singing for the Philippines” on Friday, May

24, 2013. This will be similar to the “Singing for PEACE” held by

the Philippine Economic and Cultural Endowment in St. Louis,

Missouri and in Springfield, Illinois during the infancy of the

charitable foundation wherein audience and performers alike paid for

their dinner. The income from those presentations provided seed

money for artesian wells and other water systems, the key signature

project of PEACE. This time, the three organizations will share

expenses and income equally.

On Saturday, May 25, AFPSI will hold its Annual Spring Ball, again

hosting the members of the two other organizations as guests. To

make a splash, the Auxiliary has planned for novel numbers that the

association has not presented before. Giving honor and recognition

to former AFPSI presidents will also highlight the occasion. On May

26, it will treat all attendees of the dinner-dance to free brunch,

probably at the Hokkaido restaurant in Fairview Heights. A block of

rooms have been reserved at the Hilton Gardens in O’Fallon, IL.

The horizon for AFPSI in the next few years appears bright. Cosme

R. Cagas and Elvira Salarda, co-chairs of the nominating committee

have announced that young doctors have accepted their nominations

for 2013: Evelyn Yu of Mt. Vernon, president, David Deloso of Mt.

Vernon, vice president, Emma Sunga of Rosiclare, president-

elect and Clarabel B. Criste of Marion, secretary.

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The Association of Filipino

Physicians of Southern Illinois Officers, 2011-12

David M. Conner, MD- President

Arturo Espejo, MD- Vice Pres.

Claravel B. Criste, MD- Secretary

Raydo Bugayong, Ph.D-Treasurer

Raymund Pineda, MD-Auditor

Enrico T. Farinas, MD- Bus. Man.

Virgilio Pilapil, MD- APPA Delegate

Cesar Yu, MD-Executive Director

Elvira Salarda, MD, Imm. P. Pres.

Board of Governors Calixto Aquino, MD

Ernesto Fabi, MD

Rachel Gotanco, MD

Marcos Sunga, MD

Board of Advisers

Solomon Apostol, MD

Cosme R. Cagas, MD

Urbano Dauz, MD

Virgilio Dycoco, MD

Elvira Salarda, MD

Auxiliary Officers 2011-2012 Elcee Cagas Conner -President

Erma Ofreneo-Pres.-elect

Tessie Deleste, Vice Pres.

Gina Zurliene-Secretary

Remy Bugayong- Treasurer

Kay Pineda-PRO

Raydo Bugayong, Ph.D, Imm. P. Pres.

Board of Governors Wilma Aquino

Vicky Apostol

Linda Cagas

Grace Farinas

Board of Advisers Ann Butalid

Emma Fabi

Ynna Naguit

Editorial Board Cosme R. Cagas, MD- Editor

Carlos Capati, MD

Urbano Dauz, MD

David Deloso, MD

Virgilio R. Pilapil, MD

Associate Editors

Office of the Editor

1 Bunkum Woods Drive

Fairview Heights, IL 62208

Crcagas@aol.com

Conners Head AFPSI Again

Dr. David M. Conner and Elcee Cagas Conner were inducted into office as president and

Auxiliary president, respectively, amid gaiety, rejoicing and festive song and dance at the Four

Points Sheraton Hotel in Fairview Heights, Il on May 26, 2012. Both had served the association

in the same capacity before although at different times. David is the second recycled president

following the steps of Dr. Elvira Salarda, the out-going president.

We record here mainly in pictures this happy and memorable event that prompted a member to

say it was the best Spring Ball he had ever attended.

3

For the first time in its 34-year history, AFPSI gave the Family of the Year Award-- to the Salardas. From left:

Kevin, Fredil, Vanessa (MD, UE), Erica (MD, UE), Dr. Elvira and Freddie. In presenting the award on behalf of

association, Cosme Cagas stated, “The loyalty and dedication of the Salarda family to AFPSI is second to none…”

He recalled that each and every member of this family actively participates in the Science Quiz Show, picnic and

other activities, often doing both the behind-the-scene and hands-on work. Dr. Salarda volunteered to be the first

recycled AFPSI president at a time when most anyone else would not accept the responsibility. Freddie founded and

heads the Filamis Band.

AFPSI Tango dancers

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Dr. Renato Rivera Leads 5th

Surgical Mission

Mostly unheralded in Southern Illinois and in America, Dr. Renato Rivera’s surgical missions on behalf

of AFPSI have not remained unnoticed in the Philippines especially in his home city of Tagbilaran and

the whole province of Bohol where he and his team performed their fifth mission on February, 12-18,

2011.There, the provincial government led by Governor Edgar M. Chatto, the Philippine Gift of life

headed by Dr. Ramie A. Cadag, health officials and a local hospital provide him the needed assistance,

facilities and encouragement. Patients, Bohol officials and the populace give him due acclaim and the

media ample publicity.

5

Held at the Borja Family Hospital (Drs. Jose G. Borja and Melinda R. Borja, proprietors) in Tagbilaran,

the fifth surgical team operated on 106 patients coming from Tagbilaran City and 47 towns in Bohol. The

surgical procedures included 41 thyroidectomies, 21 cleft lip/palate repairs, 25 uterine myomectomies, 11

hernia closures, 4 cholecystectomies, 3 ovariectomies/hysterectomies and 1 lymphoma removal. The

estimated cost of all the services performed amounts to $750K or P30M.

In addition to those from the Southern Illinois home base, the missioners came from Arizona, Florida,

Missouri, New Jersey and Tennessee. They included 14 surgeons and anesthesiologists and 8 nurses.

They were assisted by 52 nurse volunteers from the Borja Family Hospital.

(Dr. Rivera will appreciate donations for future missions).

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AFPSI Conducts Science Scholarship Quiz Show XXXII

Urbano A. Dauz, MD

On November 11, 2012, a slightly cloudy day but with a cool and crisp air outdoors, eighteen

high school students and their respective coaches coming from ten different high schools trickled

into the Carlyle High School gym in Carlyle, Illinois.

Meanwhile, indoors, a good number of stalwart and dedicated members of the Association of

Filipino Physicians in Southern Illinois methodically arranged and positioned the work tables of

the student participants, judges and quizmasters. Another group took care of the electronic

paraphernalia, writing boards and the refreshment section. In sharp contrast to the contentious

atmosphere that temporarily hang as a menacing cloud over the heads of the AFPSI members last

year, there was no mistaking the zeal and unity of the attendees this time around. Each member

manned their designated assignments with diligent care and skill. There was absolutely no trace

of the issues that threatened to divide the members in the past which included among other things

whether to draw or not money from the AFPSI Science Scholarship Fund, which is a restricted

fund, to help cover expenses for the yearly show and, in a larger sense, questions on what to do

with the fund in the future. Such questions have been resolved amicably and fairly sometime

back.

7

Promptly at 1:15 PM the 32nd

Annual Science Scholarship Quiz Show was underway. Acting as

emcee, Elcee Cagas Conner, AFPSI Auxiliary President, was in a zone in her usual lively and

upbeat style. She sang the Philippine National Anthem to open up the proceedings. This was

followed by the singing of the Star-Spangled Banner by Christopher Conner.

Three Rounds

After giving his welcome remarks, Dr. David Conner, incumbent president of AFPSI, read and

explained the rules of the quiz show to the panel of high school student participants and the

contest was on. Round 1 consisted of multiple choice questions with each correct answer given a

score of 2. Round 2 questions involved writing the answers as a word, phrase or number on a

paper provided. Correct answers were multiplied by 3. Dr. Erica Salarda acted as quizmaster for

Round 1 followed by Dr. Vanessa Salarda for Round 2. Both are newly graduated physicians

from the University of the East in Manila and are daughters of Fred Salarda, and Dr. Elvira

Salarda who is a practicing physician in Sparta, Illinois.

The third and final round was in scholastic bowl format complete with the use of electronic

lighted buzzers. Correct answers earned 4 points with a deduction of 2 points for each incorrect

answer. Wittingly or unwittingly, this format exposed and separated those students who are

quick with their fingers and end up giving incorrect answers from those who are more deliberate

and more often than not give correct answers. This proved to be the undoing of the first place

winner last year, Theron Smith, high school senior from Sparta, Illinois who made it to the third

round with the eight finalists. He came intent to try and post another win in his quest for a repeat

– a feat that has never been accomplished in this show yet. To his utter dismay, he ended up with

a negative score in this decisive round as with several of his fellow finalists and even failed to

land a spot among the top three. Asked for his reaction afterwards about this unfortunate turn of

events, he remarked, “I’m obviously disappointed but I was beaten fair.” Such show of

sportsmanship, among other things, is an intangible and valuable lesson in life that can be

potentially gained, learned and inculcated among the participants, whether they end up winning

or losing in this contest. They may not realize it now but it is a trait that may help shape their

character as they go through their respective lives and meet inevitable challenges ahead. Dr.

David Conner acted as the quizmaster for this round. To add to the excitement for the day, two

students tied for second place but this was quickly resolved by one beating the other giving the

correct answer to a bonus question in a sudden-death format.

The Winners

After the dust settled, so to speak, three students stood out among their peers to claim their

respective trophies and awards during the award ceremonies that promptly followed:

First prize: Nathaniel Reid – Salem Community High School - $600 and trophy donated by Dr.

and Mrs. Jose Villegas.

Second Prize: Jonathan Witte – Central Community High School - $300 and trophy donated by

Dr. & Mrs. Carlos Deleste.

8

Third Prize: Randy Pursley – Sandoval High School - $150 and trophy donated by Dr. and Mrs.

Ernesto Fabi.

9

Partial Credits

Overall, it may be an understatement to say that the success of the affair was owed in no small

measure to the efforts of Dr. Albert Butalid, Chairman of the Science Quiz Show, and his

amiable wife, Ann. They have graciously given much of their time in coordinating and laying the

pertinent groundwork for the show during the past several years including this one. Being a

practicing physician in Carlyle and also a long time resident in town, Dr. Butalid has maintained

excellent rapport and an open line of communication with the Carlyle High School

administration -- an obvious asset. Dr. Cosme R. Cagas, AFPSI and Quiz Show founder and

adviser, together with his lovely wife, Linda, was on hand to oversee the affair. A niece of Dr.

Cagas, Atty. Riafe Cagas Fernandez, UP Law ’99 and bar topnotcher the same year, together

with her parents, Engr. Rio and Mrs. Fe Cagas (listed as donors to the Quiz Show) happened to

be visiting and was promptly recruited to help with the panel of judges. She practices law in

Digos, Davao del Sur in the same office as her husband who was not with her.

After the award presentations, the AFPSI attendees proceeded to a dinner meeting at the nearby

China Pearl Restaurant and held a short business meeting to map out future plans. The weather

turned to a steady rain later in the evening partly drenching the attendees as they walked to their

cars for the drive back home. Fortuitously, the rain came late enough not to mar the arrival and

departure of the participating students and their coaches, a good sign.

And so goes another day for the AFPSI history books.

(Photos in this article were provided by Dr. Albert Butalid and Elcee Cagas Conner)

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Retired Nurses Elect

New Officers

The Retired Nurses Association of

Monroe County, Illinois elected their

officers for 2012-13. They are

(from left in photo):

Janet Stemler- President

Kathy Raitt-Treasurer

Joan Seiler- Vice President and

Historian

Barbara Wagner-Secretary and

Correspondence officer

Margaret Miller- PRO Consultant

This hardy and progressive group meets

regularly at the Ann-Briar Golf Course

in Waterloo, Illinois.

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Letters to AFPSI

Generosity without Compare

Dear Dr. Salarda,

I want to pass on my sincere thanks to the Association

of Filipino Physicians in Southern Illinois. We are glad

to attend the event with our two students and found it to

be a very rewarding experience. The students enjoyed

the format. The game show style of play made it

especially fun.

Your generosity as a group is without compare in

Southern Illinois. I cannot think of another group or

event that is giving to not only the winners but to each

and every contestant. Thank you for supporting the

students in our school that remain focused and driven

during high school.

Sincerely,

Scott Burmeister

Scholar Bowl Coach

Salem, Illinois

Attending U of I

Dear Dr. Salarda,

Thank you for the opportunity to participate in your

society’s Science Quiz Show. I appreciate your

sponsorship and giving me the scholarship. I plan to

attend the University of Illinois in the fall of 2012.

Please express my gratitude to the other members of

AFPSI.

Sincerely,

Ryan Shaffer

Second Prize and Drs. Gregorio

and Maria Macaraeg Trophy winner

Carlyle High School

,

Thanks for the opportunity to participate in your

Castro Founds St. Louis Knights of Rizal Chapter

Dr. Juan Castro, KCR, LM, archivist of the Springfield, Illinois-based Knights of Rizal

Lincolnland Chapter, wary of the distance between two cities, gathered together a group of

friends and admirers to form the KOR St. Louis Chapter.

From left, Sir Lito Capati, Sir Juan Castro,

Sir Eliodore Faypon and Sir Virgilio R. Pilapil.

Front from left: Sir Bonifacio Ceñir, KGOR immediate past area commander of the Central U.S. A. Council

from Chicago, Sir Tom Rodriquez, Sir Lito Capati, Jesus L. Celis, Sir Enrico T. Farinas,

Conrado Abinoja, Sir Cosme R. Cagas, Sir Tom Jimenez and Sir Arturo Espejo.

12

Sir Enrico T. Farinas, KCR, Lincolnland Chapter Chancellor

of Fairview Heights, IL leads the blindfolded candidates.

Sir Arturo Espejo, KCR, presiding officer of the Prefectural Tribunal of the Lincolnland

Chapter announces that the candidates have been found to be acceptable and meritorious.

On October 20, 2012 at the Eclipse Restaurant in St. Louis, Sir Lito Capati, KGOR, Central Area

Commander from Peoria Illinois, assisted by officer knights of the Lincolnland Chapter led by

Commander Sir Virgilio R. Pilapil, KGOR, and other knights from Chicago and New York

solemnly inducted into office eleven new members: 13

Juan M. Castro, MD- Chapter Founder and Commander

Conrado B. Abinoja, MD- Trustee

Joel A. Anderson- Deputy Pursuivant

Jesus I. Celis- Trustee and Auditor

Alejandro M. Datuin, Jr., MD- Vice Commander

Steven C. Erdmann- Exchequer

Eugenio G. Herbosa, DMD- Trustee

Leslie B. Jenkins- Archivist

Alfred J. Katzenberger- Chancellor

Jan P. Pallares- Pursuivant

Roger L. Schmidt- Deputy Exchequer

Sir Tom Rodriquez, KGOR, the USA Regional Commander from New York elated the knights

with a brief review of KOR activities and Sir Eliodore Faypon, former First USA Regional

Commander and now Regional Adviser from Chicago inspired them by giving his unique

perspective of Rizal’s mission.

Eugenio G. Herbosa, DMD, great grandnephew of Rizal kneels to be dubbed

a knight by Sir Virgilio Pilapil as other candidates watch and prepare themselves.

Sir Juan Castro is famous for establishing the CMA Gallery (to be renamed Museo Filipinas and

Casa de Rizal) in St. Louis featuring his Filipiniana and Rizaliana collections.

(All photos in this article are provided by Sir Enrico T. Farinas)

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Christ Philippine Missions Special College Fund

15 Back to Page 1

Richard and Camille Sexton College Fund

The scholarship program started eleven years ago with 22 students in the Philippines

receiving support from the Christ United Methodist Church of Fairview Heights, IL. The

number of recipients at all scholastic levels (elementary, HS and College) have expanded to

350 in 2012 in 10 locations in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. In 2009, at the urgings of the

Christ Church, the Christ Philippine Missions was established as a not-for-profit public

foundation and the program opened for individuals, families or organizations to “adopt-a-

scholar”. The names of Christ Church scholars and their sponsors are in the CPM blog in

Face Book (a CPM website will be developed in 2013).

The aim of the program is to support the student until graduation from college. While the

program has already graduated many since inception, it has become evident that many of our

scholars quit after high school or even during college. One of the reasons is that the

scholarship provides only a small portion of the need of the scholar and his/her family.

To help alleviate the situation, Richard and Camille Sexton of the Christ UM Church donated

to CPM a grant that will supplement the money given by the sponsors and will provide some

college scholars with their specific needs, hopefully allowing them to stay in school until

graduation.

The scholarship program started when Rev. Shane Bishop met Pastor Max Maregmen in an

UM General Conference in 1999 then requested Cosme R. Cagas to visit the latter in Ormoc

City. It has grown much since. The Aledo UM Methodist Church of Aledo, IL joined the

program in 2009, the Journey UM Church of Freeburg, IL in 2010 and the Metropolis UM in

2012. Many people both here in the US and the Philippines are doing the work of the Lord,

touching many lives and changing the world one child at a time.

“I SHALL RETURN” Coming Out Soon

The historical novel “I Shall Return” will be off the press in early 2013. It will be available in

hard and soft covers at Amazon. com, Barnes and Noble and other retail outlets.

16 Back to Page 1

Cosme R. Cagas

ggas

Discriminatory Experiences in Mississippi

Augustus P. Soriano, MD, FICS

(Read in part before the Filipino American National Historical Society, Midwest Chapter

on October 22, 2011 at the Lumiere Place Casino and Hotels, St. Louis, MO).

Dr. Augustus Soriano and friends

at the Fil-Am National Historical Society, St. Louis, October 22, 2011

1965- NAS Sailors express concern about white nightclubs even laundromats. George, a sailor

and best friend, had his car destroyed and was not able to leave the Confederate Club for dancing

with a white lady. He called me to help for which I got my nose broken, fired shots in the air and

they ran. We filed suits/countersuits, which were dismissed.

1967- I dated a white lady and when we visited her sick grandmother, she stated “You are not

going to marry that nigger.”

1976- In Neshoba County (Philadelphia), I filed suit against the medical staff and hospital for

Violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Sherman Act. The case went all the way to the

Supreme Court. We settled that I can keep my practice in Philadelphia, MS but have my

admissions at Laird Hospital in Union, MS, 12 miles from my clinic. Before the case was heard

in Federal Court someone called my house and stated that if a cross is planted it is a warning but

if it was burning it will be too late then.

-----------------------------

Someone called my house that if a white cross is planted

it is a warning but if it was burning, it will be too late…

----------------------------- 17

1977- One night I was called for a surgery consult. My wife told me to call before I left the

hospital. I passed by a friend’s house. Two hours later when I arrived home my wife was so

upset. My father with a carbine rifle and my wife with a .38 caliber pistol were looking for me.

Later I found out that someone called and said if they catch me at night, they will tie me on a

pine chair and drag me all the way to my farm.

1974- They keep me from joining the Country Club, the famous Neshoba County Fair. It is

owned and supported by tax payers, yet I was not allowed to buy a fair cabin. No blacks or

minorities are allowed to buy fair cabins at the fairgrounds.

1994- My daughter Heather was the team captain of the Philadelphia High School representing

Mississippi for the World Math Problems Competition. They took second place, yet the town

did not recognize their efforts except for Governor Ray Mabus (former Governor) who hosted

Heather and three young students who came from poor families.

2000- Heather won Miss Mississippi and only one person supported her trip to Miss America in

terms of billboards wishing her luck. The County did not support her but later changed its

attitude when two white candidates won Miss Teen USA and Miss Dixie. They had a

dinner/recognition in the county coliseum. Heather also won Miss USA Mississippi and

competed in Garn, Indiana and was treated the same way.

1976- While I was in Washington, DC for a business meeting my wife called me to come home

because someone in a pickup truck would drive so fast in our driveway and spun around and

back to the highway.

1976- To counteract the discriminatory practice, I became active in politics statewide. The local

politicians noted that the political party recognized my importance. Thence, they followed a

policy of accommodation and tolerant indifference. My work with the FBI on medical fraud and

other activities with business fraud made them decide to leave me alone. I even tested the

political water to prove that I am not someone who would just leave.

1974- When I first arrived I went to the local furniture store and was treated so badly, they would

not even sell me furniture. I had a hard time buying a clinic also in this town because of my

racial origin.

2001- I was invited to the Baptist Church for Christmas day service. My family and I went

because we enjoy singing. The next day was their Cantata and we were invited and so we went.

After Christmas a woman that belonged to the Church called my daughter Sonya and told her

“You God-damn Sorianos should go to your own Church with your own kind.” We did not ask

to go to that Church because we are Catholic. After I talked to the Pastor, he was removed for

speaking up for me and my family.

1996- My son Phillip played football all four of his high school years as a wide receiver, but as a

senior in high school he missed one practice. When the time came to recognize the senior

players, he was not among those so recognized. 18

Addendum

1978- When the Headstart Program began, white physicians in four counties including ours

would not accept the black children for medical care. They made derogatory remarks about black

children calling them “bur heads”. After a year I was paid by the Headstart Program a good

amount of money that I placed in a separate account. I spent all that money to celebrate

Christmas with all the children buying gifts and dinner with all their families, etc. The head of

the NAACP, the late Joe Lyons, spoke during the Christmas dinner almost in tears that no one

had ever done this for the black children and stated, “Dr. Soriano had a rough sailing in this

community and survived the turbulent storm.” After the white physicians realized there was

money, they took it away from me.

1984- Most county hospitals are built under the Hill Burton Act and they should provide free

services for the indigent patients but some refused to do so in many incidences. They had no sign

in the hospital or emergency room to that effect. I reported it to the Health and Human Services.

There was a statewide investigation; now there are signs in the emergency rooms that they are

under the Hill Burton Act. It became a headline in the major newspaper, the Clarion Ledger in

Jackson, MS, that the signs were due to relentless and unyielding efforts of Augustus Soriano,

M.D., the most controversial physician in Mississippi. I was interviewed by the television and

ask about being controversial. My response was simple, I told the news media “I am

controversial on things that had been proven right but I am basically conservative on things that

have yet to be proven right”. Those people remind me of a pregnant sturgeon that had spawned a

generation of radicals in the medical profession that we have to weed out. Some may consider

them as gentlemen of extraordinary guile for whom one needs no pity but they had to be weeded

out.

------------------------------

“I am controversial on things that had been proven right but I am basically

conservative on things that have yet to be proven right”

------------------------------

Things have not changed much in terms of racism toward me personally. Remember the movie

“Mississippi Burning”? That was based on the killing of civil rights workers Chaney (black),

Schwerner and Goodman (white), who were murdered and buried in the dam, where they wanted

to sell me property to build my house.

Philadelphia tried to remove racism and we just elected the first black Mayor of our town and

former Governor William Winter had pushed racism reconciliation.

My daughters Sonya and Sunny are now in California, Heather and Lisa in Atlanta, Georgia, and

my son Phillip in Meridian, Mississippi. They express they may not return to this town.

19

Conclusion

I do not generalize to condemn the citizens of this state for this is a good state to live. I have

raised six children here. And I still have the biggest practice in town. My patients, blacks, white

and Choctaw comprise my practice and they realize what the community has done to me and my

family.

These experiences, painful as they may be, will remain with me. Racism and discriminatory

practices persist. They will continue at varying degrees until our children are taught from the

cradle to respect all color and nationalities.

---------------------------------

Nowadays I take a low profile and let them think I am the village idiot

---------------------------------

Nowadays I take a low profile and let them think I am the village idiot. With all sincerity and

candor, I never follow the path of least resistance. Danger in my life looms always and I walk

everyday with the Sword of Damocles hanging over my head.

Ω

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Hating people because of their color is wrong.

And it doesn't matter which color does the hating.

It's just plain wrong.

― Muhammad Ali

Profile in Courage: Augustus P. Soriano, MD Cosme R. Cagas, MD

Of the stories of saga, travails and tribulations of FMGs (many prefer IMGs), few, if any, can

equal that of Dr. Augustus Soriano who works every day, in his own words, with “a Sword of

Damocles hanging over my head.” But if you remember that the sharp sword, suspended by a

mere horse hair, hovered over Damocles’ head only because he accepted King Dionysius’

challenge to live a life of wealth, comfort and luxury (while governing), the metaphor ends there

because Dr. Soriano chooses to live a challenging, dangerous and difficult life sans the trappings

of pleasure that the legendary Damocles enjoyed albeit temporarily.

Born in Iloilo City in 1940, Augustus attended the University of San Agustin and finished his

medical schooling at the University of Sto. Tomas. He had residency training at Mattie Hersey

Hospital in Meridian, MS and more training in general surgery at a VA Hospital in Alabama. For

ten years he served as solo practitioner in Philadelphia, MS with admitting privileges at nearby

Laird Hospital. From 1989 to the present, he has been chief of surgery at Neshoba County

Hospital. Irony of ironies! It is the same hospital and its medical staff that thirteen years before

Dr. Soriano sued for violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Sherman Act!

-------------------------------

“You are not going to marry that nigger!”

-------------------------------

The suit that reached the Supreme Court was not the beginning of his fight for human rights and

dignity. In 1965 he ended up with a broken nose in defending a friend who got in trouble for

dancing with a white girl. He was further sensitized when in 1967 the grandmother of his white

lady date told her, “You are not going to marry that nigger!”; when in 1974 a store refused to sell

him furniture; and when in the same year he was not allowed to purchase a cabin at the local

fairgrounds because he was not white. (See related article this issue).

21

The very first day that he decided to practice in Philadelphia, MS, he felt the bitter taste of

racism and discrimination when no one would sell him an office space. When he refused to leave

to practice elsewhere to exercise his basic human rights, his family was threatened that he would

be dragged in a pine chair all the way to his farm. In another occasion, his family was told that,

“If a white cross is planted, it is a warning, and if it is burning, it is too late.”

In June, 2010, an inmate in a county detention center told Dr. Soriano as he making rounds that

two white men not in prison had called him SOB and that he had to be eliminated. Gus ignored

the warning but two weeks later his Mercedes was wrecked when it accelerated to 90 mph and

lost its brakes. His attorney told Gus someone cut the wiring.

A lesser man would have simply, harshly and conveniently cursed, “The hell with them!” then

left. For sure, in the mid-1970’s America, there were hundreds of locations where Dr. Soriano

was needed, somewhere warm under the sun, in the land of the free and the home of the brave,

where he would be welcomed with open arms, and where, he and his family could live safely,

happily and comfortably. But not Gus!

Dr. Soriano goes beyond defending his and his family’s right to live and work in a place of their

choice. He also fights for the under-privileged and the down-trodden. When he discovered that

some county hospitals were not serving indigent patients properly as required by law, he reported

it to the Health and Human Services. His report instigated a statewide investigation that resulted

in better care for the poor patients. Dr. Soriano’s activities were not lost to the media that dubbed

him, “The most controversial physician in Mississippi.”

22

On knowing that the US government reneged on its promise to pay Filipino veterans who fought

for America in WWII, Dr. Soriano and the late Atty. Manny Durian of Chicago researched the

subject at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC. Their efforts along with that of other

activists eventually led to the recognition of the legitimacy of the veterans’ claim for benefits.

At the height of discrimination against FMGs in the late 1970’s, as a leader of the American

College of International Physicians (founded by Dr. Antonio Donesa), Dr. Soriano championed

the campaign for IMGs to withdraw their membership from the AMA, which later recognized

that it was discriminating against some of its members-- the FMGs. The AMA offered Dr.

Soriano to head the Committee on IMG Affairs that he declined (it was later offered to Dr.

Buscharat Ahmad who accepted it).

--------------------------------

Gus has political and leadership DNA. (His father) was a feisty labor leader…

--------------------------------

What drives Dr. Augustus Soriano to fight for what is right and to gamble his life and his

family’s well being in the process? It could be genetic: Gus has political and leadership DNA.

An avid and fighting Nacionalista, Gus’ father, the late Alfredo Soriano, was a friend and

supporter of Fernando Lopez who became vice president of the Philippines. He also helped send

Rodolfo Guanzon to law school (Guanzon later became senator). But perhaps most importantly,

Alfredo Soriano, a law graduate, served as a feisty labor leader in Iloilo.

A leader is shaped by his times. Dr. Augustus Soriano has occupied many elective and voluntary

positions in various organizations and garnered many awards for his leadership and humanitarian

work, including the title, “Ambassador of Cambodia”. But his pioneering, single-handed, and

come-what-may fight against racism and discriminatory practices in Mississippi at a critical time

defines the man. While he has not exactly smashed the barriers, by showing that he has remained

true to himself and what he believes in, at great cost, he has taken giant strides that make it much

easier for many others after him to live and practice medicine in that state. What he has done in

Mississippi has lasting implications and ramifications for men and women of all colors every-

where. Behind Gus’ guts and gumption lie courage so deep and spirit so indomitable as to set his

resolve ever strong and his moral compass steadily straight north. His story is what makes

legends, and, heroes of men. Ω

23 Back to Page 1

A man does what he must --

in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles and dangers,

and pressures --and that is the basis of all human morality.

--John F. Kennedy, in Profiles in Courage

Advice to a Medical Graduate Eusebio C. Kho, MD

Dear Aldwin:

It is graduation time there in the home country. I presume you graduated from the Ateneo School

of Medicine recently, and now have the M.D. after your name.

Congratulations!

Now is the START of your post-graduate study and the quest for specialty training you have

dreamed all your young life.

You will have no difficulty in passing the Medical Board Exam--your medical education is one

of the best. If you can, also pass the ECFMG/VQE, to get them out of the way, in case you will

later want to go abroad for further training or fellowship in your specialty.

Any hint from you as to where you will have residency? If I remember correctly, you planned to

do residency in general surgery at the PGH, as a requirement for specialty in Neuro-Surgery or

ENT (or other choice that may have formed in your inner mind since we last communicated). Let

me know if you are applying to PGH as I might be able to mention your name to the "powers

that be".

Graduation is, at one aspect, the end of formal schooling. At the other side, it is the beginning of

a long climb for that specialty cachet that you desire, for professional livelihood and service to

humanity. This latter period is hard, filled with many demands on your attention, time, sleep and

labors in the emergency room, clinical wards and the operating suites. Reserve a time period for

study, because learning in medicine or any of the medical fields is a life-long quest. Always learn

one or a few facts (in medicine, surgery, or life in general) every day. In that way, you will

progress towards the fulfillment of your career choice.

---------------------------------------------

Graduation is the end of formal schooling… the beginning of a long climb…

---------------------------------------------

I will tell you the attributes that helped me realize my dream of being a surgeon: God-given

intelligence, hard work, dedication, loyalty, discipline, courage, initiative, faith and love.

While there is the science and technology of medicine and surgery, there is always the human

factor: talk with your patient, his/her family; know the social milieu around each one of them.

Your patient is a member, first, of the family, then the relatives, and maybe laterally, co-workers,

because the patient is a member of social unit. And help change the horrible conditions that bred

poverty in our country. Help uplift society, so the low tao or the common masa will improve in

24

their total social environment. This might be too big a task for you, one person, but ally with a

group that can effect that change. In our nation, we have many organizations that aim for the

betterment of the lower strata of society, i.e., Gawad Kalinga, religious organizations (like the

Society of Jesuits of your Ateneo University, etc), your university alumni groups, and the many

foundations that promote good, salutary effects on society at the bottom line. You have had

social consciousness in your past activities, like teaching the poor kids out of school, etc.--

continue in that direction, and together with other similar actions, you will be fulfilled as a caring

Physician and Surgeon.

-----------------------------------------

Your obligation does not end with the patient…

-----------------------------------------

Your obligation as a medical caregiver does not end with the patient; it extends to society as a

whole, and may I add, to the country and humanity, as well. That is often forgotten by many of

us. And that is the more challenging aspect of being an M.D.--"see the forest, and not only the

tree!"

Whatever happens to your future and to your dream, keep faith with your inner self and with

God. May you see the dawn of your career choice in the few years that you will find to be the

most demanding in your life. Godspeed and His blessings.....

Uncle Seb

25 Back to Page1

While medicine is to be your vocation, or calling,

see to it that you have also an avocation – some intellectual pastime which

may serve to keep you in touch with the world of art, of science, or of

letters.

-- William Osler, from After Twenty-Five Years, in Aequanimitas.

Reflections on a Fallen Leader Ulysses M. Carbajal, MD, MTh

Introduction

Since my forced retirement on account of severe post- herpetic neuralgia on September 10,

2006, I have sorted intermittently my files, throwing away many materials. Only a few cards,

letters, Souvenir Programs, important Newsletters, clippings, and pictures are being saved.

Among these is a poem written a few hours after learning about Marcos' demise in October,

1989. This poem, together with an album of pictures, was handed personally to Imelda during the

night of vigil in Honolulu, HI.

Telephone Conversation. My last conversation with the former President Ferdinand Marcos had

taken place earlier, when he telephoned me in May 1989. I was then at the residence of Dr.

Rolando Atiga, family physician for the Marcos family, attending the quarterly Executive

Council meeting of the Los Angeles Alumni Chapter of the Northern Luzon Adventist College in

Artacho, Sison, Pangasinan in Glendora, CA. That was soon after the Brown Brothers had

returned from a second visit with him in Honolulu. (The Brown Brothers Chorale had been

organized in Pasay City in 1962, with Dr. Eliseo Bautista, a distinguished graduate of FEU as

President. Incidentally, this group of male singers, now known as Brown Brothers USA, will be

celebrating their 50th

Anniversary in August this year.)

"Hello, Dr. Carbajal?" It was former President Marcos speaking. I readily noted that his voice

had not changed. "Thank you for sending your three sons with the Brown Brothers to sing for

me during my birthday."

"You’re welcome, Mr. President," I said. "It is so nice to hear your voice. My sons informed

their Mom and me about your holding on exceptionally well. We'll keep on praying for your

health."

"Thank you," he answered and then quickly asked, "When will you come to visit with us?"

"Before the end of the year," I said, in a tone of uncertainty.

A Portrait from the Couple. A few days later, my wife Jovita and I received a 9 x 12 portrait,

in color, of the Marcos couple, bearing at the bottom the message, "Best wishes from Ferdinand

and Imelda," authenticated by his characteristic signature. How honored and privileged we felt

to have received this unique gift from the Marcoses! This unexpected gesture suddenly reminded

us of a few visits at Malacanan two decades before. The two most especial occasions were when

my son Ike and I went to fetch the President to speak at the Pasay City Convention Center during

the l971 Annual Convention of the Philippine Medical Association and when the First Lady

inducted the Officers of the Philippine Choral Conductors Association in l972 in the palace.

Modesty aside, it was an honor and privilege to have been elected President in both

organizations. We started thinking of the letter of thanks that we would be sending soon as well 26

as of the probable date of our future visit.

A Bleak Day. Unfortunately, because of a tight and unpredictable clinic schedule, the trip had to

be put off a few times. Then, one bleak day, the news came like a lightning bolt that the former

President of the Philippine Republic had suddenly passed away. How guilty I felt for having

failed to make good my date with him! To make up for this, I cracked my head on what to do in

order to make up for an unfulfilled commitment. And immediately, I took my pen and scribbled

the poem, “A Lesson Learned from Marcos’ Life” (see Poetry, this issue).

In the meantime, Jovita flew ahead of me to Hawaii, accompanied by Marlene Roberson, a close

family friend managing several nursing homes in Southern California, where I served as an

EENT consultant. I followed two days later, being unable to find earlier someone who could

cover for me, while out of town, in the care of patients in Glendale. This delay, however, gave

me ample time to assemble a few pictures I had previously taken of the Marcos family. A few

shots had been taken at Malacanan, at medical conventions, at cultural programs, and even at Mt.

Makiling. Moreover, Dr. Fred Quevedo, an APPA leader and an admirer of the Marcoses, loaned

me a beautiful album on the former First Family. Reprints and copies, with a few being enlarged,

were organized into a unique album. How pleased and grateful was Imelda when this album,

together with the poem, was handed to her on the evening before the funeral rites!

Recollections on Marcos

First Meeting. Although I had previously learned about his defending himself successfully in

the much-publicized “Nalundasan Murder Case,” I never had a chance of meeting him in person

until one day in 1964. I was accompanied by his cousin Aurora Edralin Jusay (Auring for short)

to see him at his office as Senate President. I was then requesting him to be our keynote speaker

during the first Refresher Courses and Convention of the MCU Medical Alumni Association,

held jointly with the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) Convention in Davao City, May,

1965.

He appeared exceptionally polite and accommodating, especially when his cousin Auring

mentioned that I was a close friend of her family. Unfortunately, his busy schedule and previous

commitments did not allow him to fly to Davao.

Appealing forHis Help. The next formal meeting with him was arranged by Senator Leonardo

Perez, of Nueva Vizcaya, soon after my defeat in the l968 PMA election in Iloilo City, when

Imelda openly supported my opponent.

"Mr. President," Senator Perez began with some trepidation, “we’re here to seek your advice and

help."

"I would be happy to do what I can," he said with a smile.

How he chuckled when the Senator and I shared him what had happened in the PMA election

because of the influence of Imelda. "Women, women!" he muttered, laughing heartily. "They 27

have their own whims and agenda!"

"But, Mr. President, my province mate, simply, would like to request that the government

refrains from intervening during the following election, which will be held in Baguio City."

And he gladly assured us that the government would not meddle with the election in Baguio as

per our request.

As expected, I won by landslide in the PMA election in 1969.

Strained Relations with the President. After being sworn into office by Vice-President

Salvador Lopez in Bacolod City in 1970, I began hearing about the President being incriminated

in graft and corruption. There were rumors on how he had "robbed someone of the golden

Buddha." But the most glaring defect during his administration was the inadequacy of health

care in the Philippines. There was mal-distribution of physicians in the country. Manila and

other major cities teemed with physicians, while far-flung areas were devoid of medical care.

Poorly equipped and undermanned, the provincial hospitals could not deliver adequate service.

(For example, my sister Magdalena, a victim of violence, lost her life as a result of lack of much

needed equipment in Bambang Emergency Hospital.) Armed with these inadequacies, I sniped at

the President during my speaking engagements in the provinces. I was encouraged to continue

lambasting the incumbent President by the rousing response of the common people, while

campaigning in 1970 to be one of the two delegates to the Constitutional Convention,

representing Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino.

But before long, I was warned that I should tone down because something might happen to me, if

the President would hear about my speeches against him. This caveat was sounded first down

south in Jolo by an officer of the Philippine Constabulary, and later up north, in Laoag, where I

had to modify the speech that had been previously delivered in Agoo, La Union, during the

annual congress of the Philippine College of Surgeons. Nonetheless, hoping that the President

would react positively, I continued to hammer on him during my visitations in the PMA

component societies.

-------------------------------------

I was warned that I should tone down because something might happen to me…

-------------------------------------

Inviting the President to Speak at the PMA Convention. A few weeks before the 64th

PMA

Annual Convention in Pasay City, I had to draft a letter of invitation to the President. "It would

be an honor to invite you as our Guest Speaker during the PMA Annual Convention in Pasay

City, May 5, 1971," was the gist of my letter. However, I secretly harbored fear and misgivings

about the invitation. Why? During the previous three years, he had declined the invitations of

our Association. Moreover, I feared he might turn down my invitation as a protest to my

negative speeches regarding his administration.

But contrary to my surmising, the President accepted the invitation. In addition, his speech-

writer (Blas Ople) made a special request for me to make a draft of what I wanted the President

to say. This amazed me beyond measure. I could not help but thank God and ask Him to guide 28

me as I drafted a speech for the President. I researched on the needs of the country, based on my

personal observations and previous reports in the newspapers, as well as from what I could

gather from knowledgeable leaders.

I zeroed in on the recognition of prevailing problems on health care and their possible solutions.

I also emphasized the importance of establishing a practical medical care system for the country,

the need for improving the hospitals and for establishing community health centers in far-flung

areas, and the challenge of encouraging new physicians to set up their practice in rural areas.

Not forgetting my specialty, I recommended the government’s co-hosting with the Philippine

Society of Ophthalmology, the International Eye Congress eight years hence. This would

eventually foster eye research in the Far East, especially in the Philippines.

Fetching the President and First Lady. With my son Ike, I drove in our old Galaxy to

Malacanan Palace to fetch the Marcoses.

"Would you like to be seated beside me?" the President offered courteously. I hesitated.

"I see, you do not like to be shot!" he said with a chuckle.

Ike drove the Galaxy behind the President's car. What a contrast! An old car behind a Cadillac!

The dramatic moment was not my valedictory address, as outgoing PMA President. It was my

children's listening attentively to the President's speech, comparing it with the draft which I had

prepared. They were delighted and even amused, I found out later, to note that the President had

consistently adhered to the prepared draft, interspersing it with occasional witty side remarks,

causing the audience, intermittently, to applaud and burst in laughter,

The Aftermath. Two days after the Convention, I received a phone call and message from

Malacanan: "Dr. Carbajal, the President was greatly impressed by your deep concern and plans

for the improvement of health care in the country. You will soon receive a formal appointment as

one of the five members of the Presidential Task Force on Health, which will prepare the ground

work for the Philippine Medical Care in the country."

I counted it a rare honor and a privilege to attend the Presidential Health Task Force meetings,

which were held regularly during weekends at the Office of the Secretary of Health, Clemente

Gatmaitan. The other members were Drs. Jesus Tamesis, Pacifico Marcos, Ricardo Alfonso, and

Joe Denoga (all future members of the Philippine Medical Care Commission).

The first move and recommendation of this Health Task Force was for the government to build

and manage a Community Health Center in each far-flung and remote district in the country,

where there was no physician practicing. The next was to encourage young specialists to estab-

lish themselves in provinces where there were no specialists, in keeping with the main objective

of the San Juan Project, which I had initiated when I was PMA President.

The ensuing trips to the various provinces revealed to me how many people were languishing in 29

poor health because of inadequate medical facilities.

A Gracious Offer. I will never forget the day when Senator Perez conveyed to me the

President's feeler on my being appointed Secretary of Health. I had by then just received the

President's message to be published in the Souvenir Program for the second Annual Conference

of the Philippine Board of Medical Specialties, of which I was President. However, because of

my stand as a Seventh-day Adventist member on proper Sabbath observance and because I knew

the various moral struggles of being employed as a high-ranking officer of the government, I

graciously declined. This situation reminded me once more of my declining Deanship at the

MCU College of Medicine the year before, based on similar grounds. (Greatly disappointed,

MCU Foundation President Filemon Tanchoco, Jr., who had openly assisted me in my campaign

for the PMA Presidency, offered the Deanship to Dr. B. Angtuaco, also a Past PMA President,

from the University of Santo Tomas.)

Another Visit at Malacanan. During the imposition of martial law, Senator Perez and I had

another appointment with the President.

"Mr. President," we disclosed rather gingerly, "the construction of the Veterans’ Medical Center

in Bayombong was completed two years ago, but is still not opened to the public. We wish to

solicit your help in activating this institution as soon as possible."

And this request was happily and readily granted. Within the next few weeks, the finishing

touches were done and soon the said medical center was in full operation.

Last Touch of His Hand. Early in 1977, a rally on education was scheduled at the International

Convention Center in Manila. The Presidents of major associations and institutions were invited

to participate. At that time, I was being groomed to be the next President of the Philippine

Hospital Association. I had given way to two others in succession ahead of me at their request,

and it was now my turn to assume leadership.

However, I was now about to finish M Div at the Far East Theological Seminary, and was

planning to continue at Andrews University Theological Seminary in Berrien Springs, MI. USA.

At any rate, I still represented the Hospital Association in the Philippine Medical Care

Commission meetings as well as in this particular rally.

For certain reasons, there was a protracted delay in the program. It seemed that the President had

some important function or guest at Malacanang and could not come on time to address the

occasion as Guest Speaker. Feeling tired of waiting and a little dismayed over the delay, I soon

found myself on my way to a side door of the Convention Center. And how surprised I was to

find out that the President was now being escorted in by body guards through the same door!

Spontaneously, I greeted him, and he returned this cordially. Then he held my right hand firmly

(almost dragging me) as we marched together toward the rostrum.

"You have to sit beside me, Dr. Carbajal," he offered congenially. 30

"Thank you, Mr. President," I replied. "I would be more at ease sitting among the audience." At

this juncture, I was suddenly reminded anew of a similar situation when he offered that I sit

beside him (and the First Lady) on the way to the PMA Convention site in Pasay City six years

before.

Last Request for the President to Consider. During my first year at the Andrews University, in

1978, I received a letter from my property-overseer in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya. He was alarmed

when somebody was suddenly claiming possession of our 3-hectare rice land, close to the

poblacion. I had previously, in the mid-60s, helped my parents in purchasing from Mr. Bustillos

this rice land, at the outskirts of Aritao. An attempt to grab this had been made years ago by the

same party; but with the intervention of the Secretary of Agriculture, Vice-President Salvador

Lopez, who had sworn me into office as PMA President, we won the case.

Now, it was obvious that an appeal had been elevated by the land-grabber at Malacanan.

Promptly, I wrote a two-paged letter to President Marcos, appealing for his help. Unfortunately,

because of the land-grabber's earlier resorting to bribery, we had already lost rights over the said

property. My letter to the President arrived too late. Nonetheless, the Agrarian Office, at the

President’s advice, assured me that the current tenants of the said rice land would continue

despite the “victory” of the land-grabber.

Compelled to Step down. Having, soon after, migrated to USA, I lost contact with President

Marcos. For a few months, I was happy to hear tips on the improvement of health care in the

country. Then troubles began to rear their ugly heads. As gleaned from Philippine newspapers,

the events that led to the President's ensuing downfall started when Benigno Aquino was shot at

the airport. This tragedy inspired Mrs. Corazon Aquino to run for the Presidency. Although she

appeared to be the winner, the COMELEC declared the incumbent President to have been "duly

re-elected."

---------------------------------

The trouble peaked with a general uprising by the people…

---------------------------------

The trouble peaked with a general uprising by the people, including priests and nuns, led and

swayed by rebelling high-ranking officers of the Army—Fidel Ramos and Ponce Enrile.

Marcos' general ordered army tanks to rush to the spot where the two opposing military leaders

were sheltered in Quezon City; but people en masse blocked the Edsa highway. The President

could have ordered the tanks to crush through the crowd to quell the rebelling officers, but his

senses of compassion and reason finally overwhelmed those of vengeance and passion.

Providentially, the President was touched, and finally condescended. He would not relish shed-

ding innocent blood. Listening to Ted Koppel during a historic "Nightline," program, I saw

and heard President Marcos, announcing the painful decision to step down and leave im-

mediately by plane either for Paoay in Ilocos Norte, or for Honolulu in Hawaii. The latter proved

to be a better and safer place for him.

31

Time for Reminiscence and Self-examination. Here in Hawaii, the self-exiled President had

ample time to re-examine the past and to reassess the recent events and his reactions. He must

have started reminiscing on his earlier contacts with the Adventist members in the Edralin-

Marcos family circle, as well as on his current observations of Adventist friends visiting with

him. (Among these visitors were Atty. and Mrs. Nilo Pineda, Dr. Gideon Medina, Dr. Eliseo

Bautista, Dr. and Mrs. Rolando Atiga, and a few other Adventist leaders.)

But the ordeal he had gone through had taken a heavy toll on his health. Even with the increased

frequency of hemodialysis, he began to slide downhill. Sensing that the end was forthcoming, he

appeared to have started walking more closely with God. I gathered this from my three sons and

25 other members of the Brown Brothers, who had prayed and sung for him in two occasions.

Based on my experience with him while in the Philippines and from the last observations of my

three sons and friends who had visited with him in Hawaii, I am inclined to think that this erring

and fallen leader had finally recognized that there is a God in heaven, who holds all events under

His control.

Many people had concentrated and still focus on the darker side of Marcos' life. On my part, I

cannot shake away the thought that, like the repentant thief on the cross, he might have, before

his last breath, repented and asked God to forgive him.

Concluding Thought

I assume that a good number of people may disagree with the aforementioned assumption.

However, may I remind them and all that God is the ultimate Judge over our actions and

motives.

In heaven, there will be found among the redeemed a few who had been labeled by church

leaders on earth as unfit for God's grace. On the other hand, a number of those whom they had

considered (judging from appearance, words, and actions while on earth) fit to enter God’s

kingdom, would not be there. What a sobering thought! Ω

32 Back to page 1

Dictatorship naturally arises out of democracy, and the most

aggravated form of tyranny and slavery out of extreme liberty.

--Plato, 428-348 BC

A Lesson from Marcos’ Life

The greatest lesson learned from Marcos’ life

Is not the winning of a pretty wife;

Much less, to win a political fight,

But more important: “Stand for what is right.”

One long year, as I moved by air and land,

I sniped at his greed and self-centered hand

As, in his quest for glory and for wealth,

He didn’t support enough the people’s health.

High-ranking men warned me my mouth to shut

Or else my light, gas, tel’phone off be cut;

But sensing he was merciful at heart,

I kept on talking, tearing him apart!

When he agreed to speak at our convention,

I wondered if my snipings he would mention;

Instead, his speech I was asked to prepare—

A chance for me my grievances to air!

Imagine my surprise—he read the speech

Penned by a critic--yes, a protocol breach--

Now challenging a leader face to face:

Forgiving, an exponent of God’s grace!

He asked me to help forge a good health plan

To ease the suffering of each countryman—

How come a critic, enemy he would use?

How then could l such offer dare refuse?

Vindictive, no! he was a friend sincere,

Approachable, yet never fazed by fear

While striving to pursue the “golden rule”

At home, church, office, palace, or at school!

He could have ordered all of his foes killed;

Their blood, his cup of glory, could have filled!

But, instead, when the hour of trial came,

He placed his people’s life above his name.

Here’s one who placed his total trust in God,

In whose veins flowed the Filipino blood;

Yet, why’s it that he has been so maligned?

How can we to his kindness be so blind?

Lord, for our lack of mercy please forgive;

E’er mindful of our neighbors, help us live;

And when at last we reach the glorious land,

May we again, perchance, meet Ferdinand.

-- Ulysses M. Carbajal, M.D.

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Haiku and Tanka Harvest, published this year, is the second book of poetry by Victor P. Gendrano,

former editor and publisher of Heritage Magazine. It is a collection of poems written and published

between 2006 and 2011.

The poet states, “Haiku is deceptively simple, but not easy to write, because of its brevity, the

conciseness, and lack of embellishments, each word is carefully chosen which together captures a

moment and evokes a mood. Much is left to the imagination of the reader to sense and experience its

emotional effect. Thus haiku invites different interpretations from different readers, depending on their

cultural backgrounds, and experiences, encompassing a variety of responses. And therein lies its

beauty. As wine, haiku ages well and is appreciated more after rereading it several times.”

Marjorie A. Buettner exudes with admiration for the author and gives a brief lesson: “Gendrano is a

multitalented… not limited only as a haiku and tanka poet… writes tanka as a welcomed change from

the form and content strictures of haiku, that is, where haiku is objective, tanka is subjective; whereas

haiku is externally visual, tanka rests in the internal, emotive world… His tanka seems to flow

naturally from his heart…a form of cathartic therapy for the poet… ”

Pamela A. Babusci, poet and editor of Moonbathing, a journal of women tanka, comments, “Haiku

and Tanka Harvest is a journey into the heart and soul of the poet. His poetic worlds are honest,

sincere, and, above all, will leave permanent footprints in the reader's heart. From loneliness,

heartache, joy and happiness, the book weaves a tapestry of his life's winding road."

This book is available at createspace.com and Amazon.com.

--Cosme R. Cagas, MD

Lost in Shangri-La by Mitchell Zuckoff, Harper Collins: New York, NY, 2011.

David M. Conner, MD

Remarkable true stories from WWII abound, but this one caught my attention. It told of a plane

crash in an extremely remote area in New Guinea, and how volunteers from the First Filipino

Regiment, Reconnaissance Battalion, Airborne, dropped into hostile territory to save them. That

is what caught my eye: Filipino Airborne in WWII? I had never heard of this, but there it was.

The training of airborne commandos was the toughest in the U.S. military at that time, so these

Filipino soldiers must have been the toughest of the tough, the elite of the elite, quite remarkable

people--and they were! I wondered why I had never heard their story before.

These Filipino Airborne included many survivors of the Bataan Death March, but also eager

volunteers from America spoiling to get in on the war. They were formed into a regiment of their

own, eventually swelling to over 7000 and pushed into two regiments. In the battle for Samar

Island in February 1945, the First Filipino Regiment was reported to have killed 1,572 Japanese

soldiers, while losing only 5 of their own. They were also involved in heavy fighting in Leyte,

although the airborne cadre was stationed back in New Guinea for advanced training and held in

reserve. They were getting impatient waiting for a mission, when they were approached about

helping to aid survivors of a plane crash so high up in the mountains of New Guinea that no

helicopter could go there, and there was no body of water large enough to let a pontoon plane

land. In short, they could go in, provide security and medical care to the survivors, but they

couldn’t get out!

The Commander that spoke to the Filipinos was very frank about the challenges they would face:

1. The area they were jumping into was in the middle of an area marked “unknown” on the

map, a lost valley with natives who knew nothing of the outside world and spoke no

known language. A pass of some sort out of the high range of mountains that surrounded

the valley was not known to exist. There were no maps of any kind, and no way for help

to arrive on the ground;

2. They would jump into an unsafe drop zone filled with swirling winds, jagged rocks, and

thick jungle;

3. They would be outnumbered at least 100 to 1 by natives who had been observed from the

air to be involved at this time in some sort of inter-tribal warfare and were, therefore,

likely hostile; and

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4. If a way could be found to take seriously wounded crash survivors out of the valley, they

could only be supplied by air drops, and if a pass out of the valley could be found, the

surrounding jungle contained dangerous wild animals, known tribes of headhunters and

cannibals, as well as an estimated 10,000 Japanese soldiers. An honest assessment would

place this rescue mission as no less than a ‘suicide’ mission. The commander was then

astonished when every member of the battalion chose to volunteer. They shouted out their

regimental motto, Bahala na!

Only ten of these brave men were chosen for the mission, including two medics: Camilo

“Rammy” Ramirez and Benjamin “Doc” Bulatao. The other eight were charged with providing

protection from hostiles and maintaining what was going to amount to a medical encampment.

One of the survivors, Margaret Hastings, was an incredibly beautiful woman of 30 who had

volunteered for the WACs, and had immediately become a darling of the press, who were

covering the story intently. With every move a contest of survival, there could be no mistakes.

Although one of the medics was injured in the drop, the two medics managed a ‘medical

miracle” by bringing back to health all of the survivors! I was struck by something Margaret

wrote in her diary at the time: When the Sergeant (Bulatao) walked into camp, there arrived to

take care of us one of the most kind and gentle men God ever put on Earth . . . I want to say right

now that when better men are born, they will undoubtedly be Filipinos.

----------------------------------

“When better men are born, they will undoubtedly be Filipinos…”

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The other paratroopers kept the natives at bay, and all ten Filipinos distinguished themselves by

their conduct. One challenge was when the handsomest soldier, Don Ruiz, discovered himself

the object of affection by Margaret, and, his Commander had to explain to him that marooned as

they were, they could not risk adding a pregnant WAC to their list of troubles, he did the pen-

ultimate sacrifice: he restrained himself!

Sergeant Roque Velasco became relatively adept at the native language, and Sergeant Alfred

Baylon became the tribes people’s favorite outsider. Other paratroopers included Custodio

Alerta, Juan “Johnny” Javonillo, Fernando Dongallo, Santiago Abrenica, and Hermenegildo

“Superman” Caoili (so called because of his muscular physique). All these were awarded Bronze

Star medals for valor, and the medics both received the Soldier’s Medal, the highest noncombat

medal.

It’s an exciting and complicated but entirely true tale, well written and researched, about some of

the forgotten heroes of the Second World War. I recommend it to anyone who is curious to know

more about this amazing group of Filipino heroes.

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