to live, to love, to learn, to leave a legacy… and to laugh along the way
“The real, unvarnished historical facts in the South China Sea are quite different from what China has claimed them to be. Despite its name, which was given by European explorers and cartographers, the South China Sea was never the sole domain of China or of any one country,” – Justice Antonio Carpio
Since the end of the Second World War, China has been redrawing its maps, redefining borders, manufacturing historical evidence, using force to create new territorial realities, renaming islands, and seeking to impose its version of history on the waters of the region.
We honor the likes of Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Gregorio del Pilar, and Apolinario Mabini, as well as the countless modern-day heroes who have left indelible marks on our nation’s history, serving as beacons of courage, resilience, and patriotism. As we celebrate this day, it is imperative that we reflect on the significance of their sacrifices and imbibe the values they exemplified in our lives as a people.
The recent trip to Cebu and Bohol was a refreshing escape, filled with reconnections with loved ones and nature. Visits to Alhibe Farm and Balay ni Charing provided moments of tranquility and reflection amidst the urbanization of the area. Reuniting with old friends and exploring the beauty of the provinces left a heart full of gratitude and a renewed spirit for the future.
We were once upon a time grizzled warriors – fighting, bleeding, dying and surviving together through nameless battles – accomplishing remarkable feats, enduring heartbreaking losses, making silly mistakes and, as the Scout Ranger Song goes: “seeking and fighting and laughing and loving, Scout Rangers of fortune are we!”
To commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the Battle of Yultong, I am reblogging this piece on the heroism of the 10th Battalion Combat Team (10th BCT) during those crucial 2 days of non-stop fighting. The article chronicles the events that eventually gave birth to the nickname: The Fighting Filipinos. It is my hope that with stories such as these, we may be able to inculcate a sense of nationalism and a stronger pride in our country and people, particularly the youth of today.
Color My World 