Living LIFE in Muscat

By: Nino A. Calamba, RN


Muscat, Oman – Welcoming some major turning points in one’s life is both a tough and an easy task to make. It will either make you so excited to embark on it hastily or will tend to carry you to enumerate numerous regrets why you made such a decision. Choosing whether to live and work abroad or just to stay in your home country is basically one of the most common dilemmas each and every Filipino is facing, and I was once one of them. Now, I am here miles away from family and friends, practically living alone, living the life I thought I never dreamt of.

Living in Muscat, the capital city of the Sultanate of Oman, is actually an entirely new experience for me. The place is quite some sort of a laid back metropolis, with throngs of five star hotels and resorts, which millionaires and billionaires in the world are secretly spending their holiday vacations. Almost half of the world’s races are found walking around the place and rubbing elbows in clubs and restobars. Black, white, and brown people are but common sightings in this silently rich city.

Oman as a strong member of rich Gulf countries in Middle East Asia, prides itself as one of the most livable place in the region. Muscat as an open city is home to many people who love to become carefree in their lives in the most positive way possible though. Expression of faith is also not a constraint in this part of the globe. Churches for Christians are well-built in strategic locations where faithful people can converge and say their prayers and worships. Shopping malls and supermarkets (which they exaggeratedly call as “hypermarket”) offer varied arrays of items ranging from electronics, home must-haves, personals, and food products.

Living in Muscat showed me how luxury cars are just being carelessly parked outside houses. I think Muscat is one of the cities in the world with thousands of cars ferrying the highway every day. With their wide and very long main roads, it is not impossible here for cars to run at a minimum speed of 110 kilometers per hour especially at nighttime. Almost all brands of cars can be seen in Muscat. Every corner in the city is a huge showroom for cars of different unique features and brands. If no one will object, I’d like to name this place as the car capital of the world.

One thing I observed unusual in their roads are the so-called “roundabouts”. These are literally round islands constructed in the middle of intersections, which is also evident in some other Gulf countries. For first timers, it may look like a useless barrier in between intersections, but if you will just analyze clearly, it functions the same way as a basic crossing, however with a touch of ‘art’. And mind you, these roundabouts have legal names too, just like streets.

Oman is a mountainous country, but not like in the Philippines where mountains are full of greens. In Muscat, rocky mountains are visible everywhere, some were even carved to make way for roads and some government constructions. Mountains in Muscat are all brown except for some few green bushes growing sparingly in some of its parts. However, trees and plants are growing healthily in the lower parts of the city. These trees and plants are systematically nourished by formulated water from a timed sprinkler scattered all over the city.

When in Muscat, it is not a complete stay when you were not able to visit its wonderful beaches with pristine sand and picturesque views. Beaches in Muscat and in Oman in general are must-see when you are in the Gulf region. Americans and European people are frequent visitors of such beaches, basking on the sand and frolicking under the heat of the scorching sun. Muscat beach is one of Arabian Sea’s treasure shores, where one can enjoy sand, sun, and sea at its best.

In terms of food, livestock and poultry products comes in large amounts in Muscat. Considering Oman’s geographical location in the Mediterranean Seas, fishes can also never be scarce in this place. Fishing is one of the best activities you can do when you are in Muscat. That is why most of the Omanis are fishermen. Fishes ranging from ‘tamban’ to ‘lapu-lapu’ are all freshly available in the city of Muscat.

Living in Muscat is fantastic. I got to see unusual way of life. Learn well-preserved customs and traditions. Meet and befriend people of different races and backgrounds. Enjoy awesome beaches and tourist spots. Hear amusing gossips and stories of local people as well as of some expats either making good or not so good things in Muscat, and ofcourse that surely includes stories from my very own nationality. Living my life in Muscat will tend to go on as of now, so Motley will strive to send you stories and experiences from this side of Earth! Live life full whenever, WHEREVER! See you then!

MARY, Mother of Life

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


The Archdiocesan Council of the Lay Apostolate and Integrated Movements (ACLAIM) with its President, Dr. Michael T. Manalaysay, inspired by the Holy Spirit and powered by the loving grace and intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary staged for the third time an archdiocesan grand Marian procession. This year’s grand Marian procession of the Archdiocese of Davao was once again faithfully joined by various religious and prayer communities in Davao City. The Mary Immaculate Health & Educational Foundation sponsored the “Our Lady of Salvation” together with the generous hearts of Mr. & Mrs. Emilio and Marilou Yap and Family.

The Grand Marian Celebration last May 28, 2011 with the theme: “Mary, Mother of Life” commenced with a conference at the Holy Cross of Davao College Gym. Reverend Father Luigi of the Franciscan Order discussed the essence of Mariology or the study of Mary on the life of a Christian faithful. Mary as the mother of Jesus Christ is our mother too. The love and respect given to her by Jesus must be manifested within us also. As Jesus said on His Crucifixion to his disciple, “Behold your Mother!”. We are disciples of Jesus Christ and we ought to render sincere veneration to His’ and our Mother too.

The grand Marian procession was a way of evangelizing the faithful people of the different roles of Mama Mary in the Church. These are images depicting Mother Mary’s stalwart leadership as the head of all disciples. The display of Mama Mary’s images is not a form of idol worship hence it is a way of remembering the Mother whom our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ loved so much. “It’s just like keeping a photo of our parents and loved ones in our wallets whom we hold so dearly in our hearts,” said Professor Espie Chinel Aparis, Founder & President of the Mary Immaculate Health & Educational Foundation and ACLAIM Vice-President. The veneration to the Blessed Virgin Mary is a show of love and respect to her son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

The grand Marian procession culminated with a Holy Mass at the San Pedro Cathedral with an enlightening homily from Archbishop Fernando Capalla. Some priests in the archdiocese concelebrated in the Eucharistic Celebration with Msgr. Paul A. Cuison. Msgr. Paul Cuison expressed a message of thanksgiving to the faithful people before the final blessing and said, “your participation to the grand Marian procession was so awe-inspiring! Let us all become a replica to the beauty of Mama Mary inside and out”.

Davao's POD Krew & Nike on ASAP Supahdance Off

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


It is with great pride that true blue Davaoeños are now again making their very own way to stardom by means of dancing. Davao talents always proved to be a stand-out in the national showbiz arena ever since. The likes of Erich Gonzales, Juris, Bangs Garcia, Kriselle, and many others are now permanent personalities on national television as they display their God-given talents, giving more honor and prestige to Davao City, the ‘land of promise’ where they all came from.

Now, on ABS-CBN’s ‘ASAP Rocks’ comes yet another milestone for Davaoeño talents. The ASAP Supahdance Off aired every Sunday during noontime features our very own P.O.D Krew and Nike as part of the top ten finalist fighting off to become ASAP Rocks’ supah dancers.

The P.O.D. Krew (Pride of Davao) and Jannike “NIKE” Calunsag are products of Jaz Up Danz Crew which has made dancing an avenue for young people in Davao City to build self-confidence and be able to express their creative minds and skills freely through dancing. Jaz Up Danz Crew was organized by Jhoey Zulueta, an ABS-CBN dance contest alumnus in Star Dance many years back. He is also the main choreographer of the said group.

P.O.D. Krew is a dance trio composed of Jabar Umpar, Ayana Quiros Merquita and Stephen Rey Estilo. Jabar Umpar is a former senior choreographer and fitness trainer of the UM Fitness & Wellness Centre. He graduated Bachelor of Science in Accountancy at the University of Mindanao as a working scholar, utilizing his blessed talent and skills in dancing by performing and sharing it to his fellow students at the University of Mindanao Fitness and Wellness Centre.

Equally excellent dancers, Ayana Quiros Merquita and Stephen Rey Estilo have been actively dancing with the Jaz Up Danz Crew all over Mindanao before they luckily form part of the P.O.D. Krew and eventually bagging a spot in ASAP Supahdance Off’s top ten finalist, chosen from among numerous dancers all over the country.

On the other hand, Jannike “NIKE” Calunsag performs as a dance soloist in the ASAP Supahdance Off. Two of our pride in the ASAP Supahdance, P.O.D Krew and NIKE, have already gone a long way in the dance contest. They have braved two elimination rounds and still remain strong contenders in the contest, making them part of the remaining six finalists of the ASAP Supahdance Off. They will again face the challenges next Sunday on ASAP Rocks and aim at besting other contestants in order to make all Davao people proud of their own local talents.

P.O.D Krew performed an impressive acid jazz dance during their first week on the contest, which was powered by Lady Gaga’s Bad Romance. While Nike had a remarkable performance of flawless dance acrobats on high heels, prompting celebrity judges to express their amazement of his courage to be unique in his performance and the way he looks.

During their latest performance last Sunday, P.O.D Krew interpreted a funny story on love triangle with-a-twist in their pop dance rendition. Meanwhile, Nike almost scared off the celebrity judges with his lyrical contemporary jazz dance, but was able to pull it off after successfully delivering the message with his remarkable facial expression and deep internalization of the music and lyrics as he performed. Both Nike and the POD Krew got a ‘Supah Go!’ from the judges, a slang term used by celebrity judges if they like the performance and would want the dancers to stay in the contest.

In order for them to stay in the ASAP Supahdance Off for more weeks, POD Krew and Nike need our support and assistance as fellow Davaoeños. We can vote for them by logging in at www.asap.abs-cbn.com. Click P.O.D Krew and Nike, the pride of Davao City in ASAP Supahdance Off. Watch out for them next Sunday on ASAP Rocks as they perform on another dance challenge with Hip-Hop and Ballroom Dancing!

P.S. Special thanks to Jabar Umpar for the photos!

Holiday's Summer Fun Dance Aero Marathon

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


Summer escapades still entail campaigning for healthy living with Holiday Gym & Spa. A wide array of sports and fun-filled activities were in store for all exclusive members of the premier fitness and health hub in the metro. Holiday Gym & Spa, true to its mission of propagating healthy lifestyle among Davao populace, has stood strong in its quest for fitness and health advocacies through all these years.

One of its memorable summer activities is the Fun Dance Aero Marathon, a 2-hour dance and aerobics marathon merrily participated by its enthusiastic members. The HGS Summer Fun Dance Aero Marathon 2011 served as proof of how dancing your way to fitness as the greatest step in achieving perfect health and shape.

Korn Cocjin, HGS’ senior group exercise leader and incharge of the said members-only aerobics championnat, was very energetic in welcoming both guests and participants. His wacky frolics was so infectious that fitness trainers, enthusiasts, and guests were often caught in loud laughter everytime he display his funny antics. He is one heck of a hyper driven fitness professional.

Presentors of the said dance aero marathon include: Rudy Dano for the Warm-up and beginner’s Zumba; Cielo Acosta for Latin; Rodolfo Enot for Retro Dance; Ronnie Bulanda for Hip-Hop or Funk Aerobics; Korn Cocjin for Advance Zumba; and, Dodjie Batu for Striptease, which was an apt cooldown.

Winners of the HGS Summer Fun Dance Aero Marathon 2011 were judged according to form and execution, stamina and endurance, ability to follow, physique, projection, enthusiasm, and audience impact.

Panel of judges were composed of this writer, Ms. Ana Theresa Flaviano Basilio of the Mindanao Daily Mirror, and Ms. Vicky Javier, Fitness Guru and owner of Beefit Gym and Aero.

Ms. Ivy Fernandez, Chief Operating Officer of Holiday Gym & Spa Davao and Cebu, was very supportive of such activity as the entire HGS family was eagerly participative and were all smiles in doing the things they love most – campaigning for health living!

SM Davao launches 'The Inaugural'

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


After the successful launch of “The Inaugural” coffee table book and exhibit at the SM North Edsa or SM The Block, the mother of all SM supermalls, SM City Davao now brings to Davaoenos the book that chronicles in photos and stories the campaign and victory of P-Noy as the 15th President of the Republic of the Philippines.
At the SM North Edsa last February 17, 2011, Ms. Maria V. Montelibano, the publisher of ‘The Inaugural’ welcomed to the launching distinguished guests from both political and social arena headed by no less than Vice President Jejomar Binay and First Sister Ms. Viel Aquino Dee.

The SM DAVAO launch of ‘The Inaugural’ marks the fifth stop of the exhibit’s roadshow. From SM North Edsa, ‘The Inaugural’ exhibit was fruitfully displayed and launched in SM Cebu, SM Bacolod, SM Cagayan de Oro, and now in SM Davao. The exhibit will run from May 16, 2011 up to May 21, 2011 at the mall atrium and event center. ‘The Inaugural’ coffee table book is also available for sale at the exhibit entrance.
Davao populace will have a glimpse of the stories and photographs behind the massive force of volunteerism which catapulted P-Noy to the highest position of the land. It brings with him the vigor of his father and the meekness of her mother that undoubtedly left an enigmatic inspiration for all Filipinos to always fight for freedom and democracy.

During the SM Davao launching of ‘The Inaugural’ on May 16, 2011, Davao’s ‘yellow armies’ converged at the SM Davao Atrium to welcome the famous coffee table book and exhibit. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma, graced the occasion and said a meaningful message of hope and inspiration to curb corruption in the nation as a way to eradicate poverty, echoing P-Noy’s perennial slogan “Kung Walang Corrupt, Walang Mahirap”.

Meanwhile, bringing the message of Mayor Sara Z. Duterte is the Supervising Administrative Officer and OIC of the City Planning and Development Office, Mr. Roberto P. Alabado III. Before reading Mayor Sara’s message, Mr. Alabado shared his very own story as top volunteer in the “Noynoy for President Movement” or the “Davao Noy” group while still sporting the famed P-Noy yellow baller band.

Present during ‘The Inaugural’ launching to express their continuing support for P-Noy are: Prof. Espie Chinel Aparis, Founder & President of the Mary Immaculate Health & Educational Foundation, Managing Director of University of Mindanao Fitness & Wellness Centre, and Core Group Member of Davao’s PPVR (People Power Volunteers for Reforms); Ms. Debby Go, SM Regional Operations Manager for Mindanao; Ms. Lynette Lopez, SM City Davao Mall Manager; Mr. Manuel Jesus Iñigo, Vice-Mayor Duterte’s Chief of Staff; Mr. Efren Elbabuena, Regional Director of Philippine Information Agency; Mr. Boie K. Jamisola, Master Trainer of the University of Mindanao Fitness & Wellness Centre; Davao Yellow Army; Davao Volunteers of Noynoy for President Movements; Mr. Rene Lumawag of Mindanao Times and some of Davao’s mediamen.

The launching of ‘The Inaugural’ in SM Davao is another manifestation that Davao, being a city of diverse culture and traditions, often positions itself as stalwart partner of the P-Noy administration in fighting corruption, easing poverty, and aiming for the best Filipino life for every countrymen. Latest news may tell us of contrasting views between the church and the state on certain national matters, but it doesn’t reduce into nothing the unity we Filipinos all had when we faced the ordeal of fighting for our precious freedom which led to the birth of the revered Filipino democracy, prayerfully won twenty-five years ago.

P.S. Special thanks to Ms. Apple Legario, PR Officer of SM City Davao and Mr. Joffer Aparis, Administrative Officer of the Mary Immaculate Learning Center!

Party On Jeans with Rotary Governor Nonoy Villa-Abrille

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


During the PETS-DISTAS 2011 of the Rotary International District 3860, distinguished Rotarians from all over Mindanao gathered full of zest and enthusiasm to welcome yet another Rotary year with a bang. “PETS” stands for Presidents-Elect Training Seminar, while DISTAS is a coined term for District Assembly. It is during this occasion that new leaders for the incoming Rotary year are trained to become service-oriented Rotarians striving to meet the Governor’s challenges through worthwhile service projects.

District Governor Leoncio “Nonoy” Villa-Abrille said in his message: “As we begin our journey for Rotary Year 2011-2012, let us call upon the Change Maker (Club) Presidents and other Club Officers, and the rest of us in the district (3860), to draw inspiration and guidance from Rotary International President Kalyan Banerjee as all Rotarians espouse to his annual theme – REACH WITHIN TO EMBRACE HUMANITY.”

On the fellowship night, Mindanao Rotarians all came garbed in their fascinating jazzed-up jeans and white tops at the Grand Ballroom of the posh Marco Polo Hotel Davao. Fabulous dance production numbers were rendered by the energetic Rotarians from the Rotary Club of South Digos, and from the Rotary Club of South Davao. Sessionistas Band provided upbeat music bringing the party people grooving on the dance floor, with “group dancing” led by professional dance instructors.

PETS-DISTAS 2011 Organizing Committee was chaired by Antonio “Ony” Partoza and co-chaired by Remegio “Boy” Salanatin. Event Secretariat was composed of: Jonathan “Butch” Jocom-Chairman; Virgilio “Jing” Quijada – Registration; Casilda “Sising” Aparis – Souvenir Program; Phillips “Phillips” Dumaligan – Handouts & Kits; Maximo “Max” Lozano – Hotel Accommodation. Finance Committee was being chaired by Salvacion “Sally” Baneke, with Jacob “Jake” Chua taking care of the Ads Solication, and Arthur “Art” Uy and Remegio “Boy” Salanatin for Sponsorships.

Program Committee was chaired by Scott “Scott” Nimmo, with the following members: Ismael “Maeng” Tabije – Protocol, Jose “Joe” Valenzuela – Plenary/Workshop, and William “Willy” Yong – Hall, Venue, Exhibits. The joy-filled and memorable Fellowship Night party was handled by Rodolfo “Rudy” Abellana as Chairman, with Espedita “Espie” Chinel Aparis for Entertainment, Robert “Bobby” Carabuena for Wine & Spirits, and Maria Bea “Bea” Lao for Foods & Snacks. Spouses’ Program was taken cared of Mi Li Yong and Lynda Tabije, under which Marselle Lozano and Rhoda Nimmo taking charge of the Seminar and City Tour respectively.

Saint Alexius, Man of God

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


Studying the life of Saint Alexius brought me to one simple lesson of self-sacrifice and the strength of leaving the comforts of life in order to become an instrument of generosity towards others whom no one shares kindness.

Saint Alexius, the patron saint of the congregation of the Alexian Brothers, whose dedication to the healthcare ministry helped them produced various hospitals, homecare, and medical facilities all over the world providing health and medical services to the people of God.

We are very lucky to have the Alexian Brothers here in Davao City through the Alexian Brothers Health & Wellness Centre, which caters to patients’ needs in ambulatory care and diagnostic procedures pegged at an affordable and consumer-friendly rates. The Alexian Brothers Outreach Ministry is also very active in providing free medical consultation and services to depressed areas in the city regularly.

The life and examples of Saint Alexius inspired the religious brothers of the Alexian congregation to serve God in promoting health and become an advocate to the maintenance of health and wellness among all people.

Saint Alexius was a son of a wealthy and very powerful Roman senator in the year 404. According to Syriac legend, he is a “Man of God” in Edessa, Mesopotamia, who lived by begging and shared the alms he received with other poor people.

Meanwhile, the Greek version of his legend has said that Saint Alexius was the only son of Euphemianus, a wealthy Christian Roman of the senatorial class. Saint Alexius fled his arranged marriage to follow his calling of “self-sacrifice” for God and for His less fortunate people. He disguised himself as a beggar and lived near Edessa in Syria. There he begged for alms even from his own household slaves, who have arrived in the place to look for him as ordered by his parents.

A miraculous vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary singled him out as a “Man of God”. People were already trying to mob him and ask for intercessions, but they have become notorious. In order to avoid the resultant notoriety of people, he went back to Rome.

When he arrived back in Rome, he was a change man and a beggar at this time, in which his parents failed to recognize him. Because his parents were good Christians, they took Saint Alexius in their palace and sheltered him in a dark cubbyhole beneath the stairs. He spent seventeen years living in his own home, not as the only son of the senator, but as a “guest beggar”. He spent his days unknown to his family praying and teaching catechism to children.

During his death, his family found writings on his body which told them who he really was and how he had lived his life of penance since his wedding day, ALL FOR THE LOVE OF GOD.

P.S. Greetings to my ABHWC Family, especially to the nice people of the NURSING SERVICES DEPARTMENT: Jen-Jen, Ate Meldz, Ma’am Jane, Ma’am Ging, Ate Mabel, Ma’am Anna, and Lourenz !!!

Love & Care for TALOMO BEACH

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


I can still fondly recall the childhood days I have spent in the historical Talomo Beach here in Davao City. After my grandfather, the late Benito Cabahug Aparis, together with my very gracious grandmother, the late Teodora Lejeon Chinel, brought the entire family and then later on the entire clan, here in the City of Davao from Luzon and the Visayas, I luckily became a proud Davao-born and a Talomo-Beach-bum.

As I child, I was able to etched wonderful memories in my existence vis-a-vis Talomo Beach. My friends and I always escaped from our houses and meet on the beach in the late morning to play, swim, and enjoy the sun, sand and sea the whole day through. It never fails to amuse me remembering my beloved mother fetching me from the beach with a bamboo stick during lunchtime, in which the bamboo stick would obviously be used to punish me for escaping and swimming in the sea without adult’s supervision. But that whole experience was priceless savoring the clean and clear sea and the glowing gray and black sand of Talomo Beach, while looking at the endless horizon Davao Gulf has to offer. I grew up living and loving Talomo Beach, which I could never imagine myself not looking back to those memories throughout the rest of my life.

As many years passed, Talomo Beach has become polluted because of the abuse and exploitation done by the people living in it. As the population rises, shanties and more households started sprouting like mushrooms along the beach. These realities have led to the irresponsible waste disposal of people to the sea. Plastic garbages, fecal materials, and even dead pets can be seen floating in the once pure and serene Talomo Beach. If you would try swimming, you could already feel muddy sand, which was probably caused by the discouraging formation of dirt and wastes into muds covering the original gray and black sand of Talomo Beach.

I believe it is not bad to live near the sea and find solace on the beach. But what is important is that people who are living in the coastal area, especially in Talomo Beach, must realize that they need to provide tender loving care to the sea, the sand, and to Mother Nature in general. Responsible waste management must be practiced by the villagers who opt to build their houses near the sea. For according to the Holy Bible, we must become good stewards of the awesome graces and blessings of God bestowed upon us. The sand and the sea is a great blessing, so is Talomo Beach. The Holy Bible also reiterates that “to whom much has been given, much shall be required”, which would translate to the fact that being able to find life in the beach and have a daily communion with the sea is a great gift from above, and therefore a greater challenge of being responsible in giving back love and care to the beach, the sea and the river is highly expected from those living near it.

It is inspiring, though, that a group of individuals have already started the continuing clean-up drive to save Talomo Beach, which includes the river in Ulas flowing directly to the beach. Specifically, the group of Engr. Bendor A. Calamba (former Barangay Kagawad in Barangay Talomo) has made the brave move of conducting regular clean-up drive sessions in Talomo Beach and its river. Being a District Coordinator of the Office of Congressman Karlo Nograles, Engr. Calamba is ably joined by the congressional scholars of Talomo in the implementation of the noble environmental project. Likewise, the local barangay council has also spearheaded such kind of noteworthy activity to save one of Davao’s precious gems. Hand in hand and together in unity for one common cause, the people in Talomo will surely be of great help in restoring the beauty and sanctity of the Talomo Beach.

During their latest clean-up drive session, the group of Engr. Bendor Calamba was able to successfully free quite a lenthy stretch of the Talomo Beach from plastic garbages proliferating on the seashore. The group of Engr. Calamba also conducted house-to-house information drive encouraging local villagers to become responsible of their own wastes. The villagers were also informed to be updated of the regular CENRO garbage truck collection so that they can surrender their garbages to the “garbage truck collector” rather than throwing them into the sea and into the river.

Moreover, the group of Engr. Bendor Calamba, was able to plant trees on the river banks of the Talomo river visible in the Ulas bridge, in which its water rushes through the sea of the Talomo Beach. They were also successful in cleaning the river banks from plastic garbages and other waste materials deemed harmful to the river and to mother nature as a whole.

These simple and yet remarkable endeavors of saving and restoring Talomo Beach and its river by the passionate and energetic group of Engr. Bendor Calamba serves to be both a wake-up call and an inspiration to the locals of Talomo Beach and the entire Davao populace, that we need to nurture our very own gifts of nature. The many stories that Talomo Beach has to tell the coming generations can only be well appreciated if it maintains its innate and natural beauty, which can surely be achieved through our gentle love and care. It can be said further that with humble efforts coupled with pure intentions, a bigger and a much wonderful outcome will carve its way to reaching a praiseworthy objective.

We share photographs taken by Joffer Aparis.

(Published on Mindanao Times newspaper, frontpage, May 7, 2011, Saturday issue ... However, with unintentional error on the byline)

The Blessed Pope John Paul II

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


Blessed Pope John Paul II was born on May 18, 1920 in Poland as Karol Józef Wojtyla. He has reigned as Pope of the Catholic Church for 26 years. Blessed Pope John Paul II, the most beloved Pope of all time, has been acclaimed as one of the most influential leaders of the 20th century. Catholic faithful from all over the world, especially in the Philippines, loved him so much because of his gentle and loving shepherding of his flock in the church.

As one of the most-travelled world leaders in history, he has visited a total of 129 countries during his Pontificate. One of his memorable travels was when he graced the celebration of the World Youth Day in Manila, Philippines in January 15, 1995. Millions of delegates from all over the world gathered together in celebration of peace and love, with the presence of Pope John Paul II. It was one of the most historical events in the Philippines as people from every nation, from different economic status and backgrounds, all came together in the vast Luneta Grounds to sing, shout and dance for the Lord, as inspired by His Holiness, Pope John Paul II. It was said to be the largest Christian gathering ever with the biblical theme: “As the Father has sent me, so I send you”.

Likewise, the Holy Pontiff was able to visit Davao City in the year 1981. At the Davao International Airport, Pope John Paul II was greeted by thousands of Davaoenos who were so happy to receive blessings and inspiration from His Holiness. Pope John Paul II celebrated the Holy Eucharist at the tarmac of the old Davao airport, wherein a makeshift altar was made with a canopy, which resembles a Mindanaoan boat.

Blessed Pope John Paul II was the 264th Pope according to the chronological List of Popes and the first non-Italian Pope in 455 years. When he was 58 years old, he became the youngest pope elected since Pope Pius IX in 1846, who was 54 years old when elected. Like his immediate predecessor, Pope John Paul II went away with the traditional Papal coronation and instead received an ecclesiastical investiture with the simplified Papal inauguration on October 22, 1978.
According to some historical observers, during his inauguration, when the cardinals were to kneel before him to take their vows and kiss his ring, he stood up as the Polish prelate Stefan Cardinal Wyszyński knelt down, Pope John Paul II stopped him from kissing the ring, and then hugged him.

Pope John Paul II is a remarkable linguist as well, aside from speaking his native tongue Polish, he was able to speak in various languages, namely: Italian, French, German, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Ukranian, Russian, Croatian, Esperanto, Ancient Greek, and Latin. As part of his special emphasis on the Universal Call to Holiness, he was able to beatify 1,340 people and canonize 483 saints. It is more than the combined tally of his predecessors during the last five centuries.

Pope John Paul II was proclaimed Venerable by his successor Pope Benedict XVI on December 19, 2009. He was recently beatified as Blessed Pope John Paul II on the first of May 2011, the feast day of the Divine Mercy, which he had declared himself during the canonization of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun whom the Lord gave His messages of spreading the good news about His Divine Mercy.

Pope John Paul II also was able to reach out to different churches and religions all over the world. The Church of England, which recently wed young royal couples Prince William and Princess Catherine, was referred by Pope John Paul II’s predecessor Pope Paul VI as “our beloved Sister Church”. The religion of the Church of England is called Anglican Communion, to which Pope John Paul II had a good and cherished relations. Aside from Anglican Communion, Pope John Paul II was able to reach out and establish good relations with Lutheranism, Judaism, Eastern Orthodox Church, Buddhism, and Islam.

When John Paul II became Pope in 1978, he was already an avid sportsman. During that time, at 58 years old, he was extremely healthy and active. He jogs regularly in the gardens of the Vatican. He does weight training, swimming, and hiking in the mountains. Pope John Paul II was also said to develop fondness to football.

On March 31, 2005, after developing urinary tract infection, Pope John Paul II suffered septic shock, which according to medical encyclopedia, is a widespread form of infection with a very high fever and profoundly low blood pressure. But despite of his condition, he was not taken to a hospital. Instead, he was offered medical monitoring by a team of consultants at his private residence in Vatican. This was taken as an indication by those close to him in believing that the Holy Pontiff was nearing death. By not bringing him to the hospital, it is in accordance with Pope John Paul II’s wishes to die in the Vatican. Before he died, thousands of people assembled at the St. Peter’s Square to held vigil and pray for Pope John Paul II. Upon hearing this, the dying pope was said to have stated: “I have searched for you, and now you have come to me, and I thank you.”

Pope John Paul II died on April 2, 2005. Prominent world leaders joined the world in lamenting the death of a well-loved pope, whose life was dedicated to uniting faithful people regardless of denominations. Former US President George W. Bush and his Laura paid their respects to Pope John Paul II on the 6th of April 2005, together with former US President Bill Clinton and US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice. A thick congregation of faithful people gathered at the St. Peter’s Square during the Requiem Mass offered for Pope John Paul II on April 8, 2005.

The beatification of Pope John Paul II last May 1, 2011 in time of the feast day of the Divine Mercy, was presided over by his successor Pope Benedict XVI. A vigil in preparation for the beatification was held the night before. The casket in which he was interred was exhumed and placed before the tomb of Saint Peter on April 29, 2011, two days before the beatification. Pope John Paul II’s casket was placed in front of the main altar for public veneration during the ceremony. After the ceremony, the casket was reinterred in the Chapel of St. Sebastian.

A vial containing the late Pope’s blood, taken during the final days of his life, was displayed as a relic for veneration during the beatification. The reliquary in which the vial was kept during the ceremony was carried by Sister Marie, who says she was cured after praying to the Pope, and Sister Tobiana, who nursed the Pope during his battle with illness. The beatification declared Pope John Paul II “BLESSED”.

A total of 87 international delegations were reported to have attended the beatification of Pope John Paul II, which include 22 world leaders. Five European royal families were likewise represented. The British Royal Family was represented by the Duke of Gloucester, Prince Richard, the youngest grandchild of King George V and Queen Mary. Jewish leaders were also present during the ceremony. Israel was represented by Minister without portfolio Yossi Peled.

Hundreds of thousands of Catholics from all over the world gathered for the Holy Mass in celebration of the beatification of Pope John Paul II at the Saint Peter’s Square, wherein a giant tapestry bearing the portrait of a beloved father of the church hanging at the façade of the St. Peter’s Basilica – a beacon of hope, peace and solidarity, BLESSED POPE JOHN PAUL II.

The Divine Mercy of GOD

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


“My mission will not come to an end upon my death. I will draw aside for you the veils of heaven to convince you of God’s goodness.” – from the Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska of the Most Blessed Sacrament. These words started the strong devotion to the Divine Mercy of God. From the diary of Sister Maria Faustina, a young nun then from Poland, the devotion to the Divine Mercy of God began spreading throughout the world in the 1930s.

The messages from the diary of Saint Maria Faustina is a reminder of what the Church has always taught her faithful people through the Scripture and traditions. People are reminded that God is merciful and forgiving and that as children of God, we too must show mercy and forgiveness. However, in the devotion to the Divine Mercy, a powerful new focus has been brought about by the messages of the Divine Mercy.

The devotion to the Divine Mercy provides us the message of mercy that God loves all of us despite of how great our sins are. The message tells us that God wants us to recognize that His loving mercy is greater than all our sins, in order that we will call upon God full of trust and be able to receive His mercy wholeheartedly, which we are encouraged to let it flow through us towards others. So that, everyone will come to share in God’s joy. As EWTN Devotionals puts it, “(the message of the Divine Mercy devotion) is a message we can call to mind simply by remembering the ABC: (A) Ask for His Mercy; (B) Be merciful; and, (C) Completely trust in God.”

EWTN Global Catholic Network explains that because God wants us to approach Him through our prayers every minute of our lives, we are then asking fervently for His Mercy as we repent for all our sins and as well by begging Him to shower His Mercy down upon us and of the whole world. Secondly, we would be merciful to others because God wants that upon we receive His Mercy, we would let it flow freely towards others. God wants us to extend love and forgiveness to others just as He has unconditionally done to all of us. Lastly, when we completely put our trust in God, it is a way of God wanting us to know that the graces of His Mercy are dependent upon our trust in Him. The more we trust in Jesus, the more we will receive His loving mercy.

The prayer to the Divine Mercy is being said every three o’clock in the afternoon, and it goes: “You died Jesus, but the source of life flowed out for souls and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fountain of Life, immeasurable Divine Mercy, cover the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us. O Blood and Water which flowed out from the heart of Jesus as a Fountain of Mercy for us, I trust in You! Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and the whole world. Amen. Jesus, King of Mercy, we trust in You!”

For prayer leaflets, devotionals, and prayer schedules to the Divine Mercy, the Divine Mercy prayer group of the Archdiocese of Davao can be reached through phone numbers 298-0488. Ms. Emilia Sitjar is the Divine Mercy Lay Coordinator in the Archdiocese of Davao.

P.S. I would like to give thanks to my Aunt, Dr. Casilda “Sising” Aparis, for encouraging me to grab this blessed opportunity of writing a story about the Divine Mercy of God, especially on its feast day every first of May!

Mesmerizing ENCHANTED RIVER & Marvelous TINUY-AN FALLS

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


During the Holy Week, most people always grab the opportunity to see places and have the time to reflect on the loving goodness of God for mankind. It is also the time when most people go to sought-after tourist destinations wherever in the country, or even in the world, it may be. Because it is during the Lenten season that all folks have one of the longer vacations in the entire year.

For my friends and I, we chose to see natural tourist spots found in Caraga Region – the Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, and the Tinuy-an Falls in Barangay Burboanan, Bislig City. After spending our times reflecting on the sacrifices of Jesus Christ by visiting nine churches on Holy Thursday and commemorating the Way of the Cross on Good Friday, we headed to Wow Caraga! to prepare for thanksgiving early dawn on Black Saturday.

The Enchanted River (named as such because it seems enchanted by fairies and other spirits), the more popular one because of the unstoppable uploading of pictures by friends on Facebook who have been there (whether by themselves or through an educational fieldtrip), is a 12-kilometer drive away from Hinatuan Proper. It is a river located in the mouth of an underground cave, and its stream rushes towards the seas of the Pacific Ocean. Some islands and islets can be readily found outside the Enchanted River, where one or a group can hire a pump boat to go to the island and islets and enjoy the fish cages and turtle sanctuary found in there. One island named Pangasinan White Sand literally stands by its name because its sands really resemble the sands in the Hundred Islands in Pangasinan.

What is unforgettable in the Enchanted River is the “fish-feeding” time. Authorities assigned to take care of the river have to ring a bell for several times at exactly 12 o’clock in the afternoon. This informs people to come out of the water for a while to make way for fishes to go up the water surface and eat their lunch. And when the caretaker starts to throw fish feeds like bread crumbs, small and big fishes alike competes in slurping on the water surfaces to catch their feed. The sound of slurping fishes is really audible, even if you are standing up the hill a little far from the river. This event draws people to become awestruck and starts to capture what they have witnessed on camera.

The Tinuy-an Falls is 15 kilometers away from Barangay Mangagoy in Bislig City. Like I said in the anecdote I have made in my “Tinuy-an Falls” photo album in Facebook, we passed through barrio after barrio, bridge after bridge, hill after hill, ricefield after ricefield, and one wide Lake, before we have reached the foot of the Tinuy-an Falls. When we were already down on our last slopes going to the foot of the Tinuy-an Falls, we can already hear the water falls like heavy rainfall, even if the falls itself is not yet visible. The name of the Tinuy-an falls is derived from a local term “tinuyu”, which means intentional. Therefore, if one must decide to go and see the Tinuy-an Falls, one must have the conviction and greatest of intentions.

At the foot of Tinuy-an Falls, four layers of waterfalls can be seen. The third layer is the tallest and the strongest. It is where we have enjoyed pulling ourselves on a bamboo raft we have rented for an hour to get ourselves nearer the waterfalls. There immediately below the waterfalls, we have experienced a natural massage from the water, a heavy and strong massage at that. After enjoying the water massage and diving and swimming in the third layer of the waterfalls, one can go further up the second layer through a man-made steel stairs (which is for another fee). Up there you can see the best view down below the waterfalls. You are like up in a mountain looking down on people who are swimming and enjoying.

These recent Lenten vacation me and my friends have experienced is a basketful of inspiring and enlightening situations. There were times that we almost meet accident while riding a habal-habal en route to Hinatuan after swimming at the Enchanted River. Memorable and happy moments were always printed on our minds even up to this very hour. Bloopers and funny experiences never fails to brought us into laughter everytime we remember them. But the most important thing of all, we were able to realize that God who can never be outdone in generosity and loving kindness always protects His children from harm. And lastly, we were able to strengthen our faith, that God who made heaven and earth is the source of all that is good and marvelous! We praise and thank the Lord for giving us such wonderful natural treasures in our very own land!


P.S. Thank you very much to Roy Vencent Miano and his Mama, Gladys Calo and Family, Aladhin Repollo, and Alrish Dar Joy Romero!

CARRILLON OF PRAYERS

BY: NINO A. CALAMBA, RN


In general sense, prayer is said to be the application of the mind to Divine things, it is not merely an acquisition of knowledge about them but it is making use of such knowledge as a means for a strong and unique bond with God. Praying is done by acts of praise and thanksgiving.

By praying, we acknowledge God’s power and awesome goodness, as well as our own neediness and dependence on Him. It is therefore an act implying the deepest reverence for God and inspiring us to look to Him for everything, not because the things we ask are good in itself, or advantageous to us, but mainly because we sincerely wish it as God’s gift to us His faithful children.

Prayer strengthens our faith in God and energizes our hope in His magnanimous goodness. Hence, God, to whom we pray, moves us to fervent prayer. Our knowledge of God will always inspire us to look to Him for help, and positively dispose us to receive His loving graces.

According to some prayer experts, in hearing our prayer, God does not change His will or action in our regard, but simply puts into effect what He had eternally decreed in view of our prayer. It adds that, “this He may do directly without the intervention of any secondary cause as when He imparts to us some supernatural gift, such as actual grace, or indirectly, when He bestows some natural gift.”

“When we pray, we lift our thoughts, feelings, intentions and our hearts’ desires to God. When praying, we bow our heads with respect and surrender; with submission and gratitude; and with joy and sorrow. We look up to God with faith, hope and love.” These forewords from the latest publication of the Mary Immaculate Health & Educational Foundation, the “Carrillon of Prayers”, becomes an invitation for all of us to commune with God in constant prayers.

Wikipedia says , a carillon (also spelled in Spanish as “carrillón” as in the Carrillón in the Basilica of the Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico, from which the title of the book was partly derived) is a musical instrument which is played by striking a keyboard (with keys called “batons”) with the fists and by pressing the keys of a pedal keyboard with the feet. The keys mechanically activate levers and wires that connect to metal clappers that strike the bells, allowing the performer named carillonneur, to vary the intensity of the note according to the force applied to the key. A carillon’s sound comes from numerous bells (23 bells to be exact) to produce a musical melody. The “Carrillon of Prayers” book, therefore, is like an array of musical chimes offered to God in continuing praise and thanksgiving.

“Carrillon of Prayers” book, compiled by Professor Espie Chinel Aparis, is a compendium of chimes of prayers for God. The compilation encourages us to take our worries and aches to God in prayer. It said that we must remember that we are entrusting our cares to the One who hung the stars and set the planets in motion, who is also the One who created the earth and all that is in it.

The prayer book was made out of the knowledge that some people like to pray with the help of prayer books, which likewise inspired Espie Chinel Aparis to compile her very own “prayer collection” through all the years. Ms. Aparis said that the compilation is meant to be shared to everyone who needs a ‘prayer book’ companion that they can bring with them, wherever they go.

The Carrillon of Prayers book is composed of: Daily Prayers; Prayers to the Lord Jesus Christ; Prayers to the Holy Spirit; Eucharist Prayers; Prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary; The Holy Rosary; Prayers for Protection and Spiritual Warfare Prayers; Prayers for Healing; Prayer for the Sick; Prayer in Time of Illness; Novena Prayers; Prayers of Contrition; Prayers for Abundance; Prayers for the Church, for the Pope, for Priests, Religious and for Vocations; Prayers for our Nation and for Good Governance; Prayers for Families; Prayers for Personal Intentions; Prayers for Students, Workers and Professionals; Prayers for the Environment; Prayers for Near Journey’s End and for the Faithful Departed; Christmas Prayers; and, several Prayerful Quotes.

The Carrillon of Prayers book, with Nihil Obstat by Reverend Father Gene Gilos of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and Imprimatur by Most Reverend Bishop Leonardo Y. Medroso, the Bishop of Tagbilaran, is edited by Professor Greg A. Calamba, Jr. and Bro. Boie K. Jamisola.

The Mary Immaculate Health & Educational Foundation welcomes sponsors and benefactors who may wish to become part of the propagation of the “Carrillon of Prayers” book. It is the prayerful wish of the Mary Immaculate Health & Educational Foundation that a life of prayer and constant communication to God becomes the strongest part in the day to day living of all people.

Therefore, those generous people who may wish to share their gifts in the continuing reproduction and distribution of the “Carrillon of Prayers” book and be able share this blessed prayer book to their friends and loved ones may contact the following numbers: 286-8173; 297-0937; 0922-8866745 and 0917-6927915. Email messages can also be sent to mary_imm@yahoo.com. MIHEF official facebook account is: Mary Immaculate. Proceeds of the prayer book is for the educational scholarships of less fortunate youth and children, for the community health services in depressed areas, and special projects of the Mary Immaculate Health & Educational Foundation.

“Let my prayer arise before You like incense, the raising of my hands like an evening oblation.” (Psalms 141:2)