Why independence, if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?

Why independence, if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?, a photo by lucas78 on Flickr.

José Protacio Mercado Rizal Alonso y Realonda (June 19, 1861 – December 30, 1896, Bagumbayan) is the Philippines' national hero. His execution by the Spaniards brought about the revolution which freed the Filipinos from 300+ years of colonization.

Rizal once said, "Why independence, if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?" Today we are commemorating his 115th death anniversary... Yet, Rizal's statement still holds true today as the Philippines struggles to achieve true freedom from present day tyrants.

I took this photo along Session road Baguio City. These Hand painted T-Shirts are works of a local Baguio artist Mr. Randy Bulayo.

Spirit of Chirstmas

Spirit of Chirstmas, a photo by lucas78 on Flickr.

An average 25 typhoons hit the Philippine Islands each year. Last December 16, few days before Christmas, "Sendong" hit our country. It was that last expected typhoon but the worse that hit this year. Sendong, so far, brought 1200 deaths in the southern Philippines. Flash floods and landslides ravaged towns in pitch darkness....

The stories are tragic....The aftermath is devastating.

Although I celebrated Christmas far from this tragedy I can't help but think of the people who died and the people who are suffering. It is a sad reality that the Philippines needs to contend with. Amazingly, everyone is responding with great resolve... Help form Filipinos including people around the world are pouring in.

Let us continue our support, help, and prayers to those affected...because at this stage anything matters.

HOPE

HOPE, a photo by lucas78 on Flickr.

The past few weeks have been controversial for my country. Our ex-President was arrested to answer to criminal charges. This is not the first time in our history where a Philippine President faced a similar fate. Although the allegations have not been proven, the news saddens a whole lot of people, including myself...It is sad to think that people in power are capable of doing such crimes over and over. People who should have been examples for our country are the ones dragging us down. I hope it stops here.

I took this photo of a street vendor in Pasig, Philippines. These vendors are the best source of news while battling the early morning Manila traffic. They weave through traffic offering fresh news, candies, cigarettes (which may be bought per piece), water, chips, HOPE....you name it!

*Headline reads: "Gloria (The ex-president) should stop all the drama."

Mayon Volcano

Mayon is an active volcano in Bicol, a region in Philippines. 'Mayon' comes from the local Bicol word 'Magayon' meaning beautiful. Mayon is known for its destructive history. In 1814 - 2,200 locals died in what is considered the most lethal eruption of the volcano. Ironic it seems.

I have seen many beautiful photographs of Mayon, but seeing it for my self made me jump for joy...being able to take a photo of it is really just a plus.