Addressing Health Issues of Senior Citizens under RA 9994

It cannot be helped that when one talks about ageing and the elderly, matters involving health are always included. Republic Act No. 9994 otherwise known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 is the third version of the senior citizens law. Since the first senior citizens act, RA 7432 and its successor RA 9257, the Philippine government has continuously sought to expand elderly benefits and privileges, and address various ageing issues especially those related to health concerns. 

Guided by the national sectoral plan, the 5-year Philippine Plan of Action for Senior Citizens (PPASC) which in turn was anchored on international instruments such as the Madrid Plan of Action, the Macau Programme of Action as well as the Shanghai Implementation Strategy, a major area of concern focuses on advancing the health and well-being of Filipino seniors.       

As such, one of the most expanded provisions of the RA9994 refers to medical benefits and health privileges of Pinoy senior citizens. While previously the most availed of discounted purchase pertained to drugs and medicines, under RA9994, the 20% senior citizens discount now applies to the discounted purchases of influenza and pneumonia vaccines for seniors. More importantly, the 20% SC discount likewise applies to essential medical supplies, devices, accessories and equipment used by seniors such as geriatric diapers, glucometers, blood pressure apparatus, wheelchairs, and walkers. Thus, it has been emphasized that commonly used assistive devices such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, and even dentures are also covered by the SC discount. 

These major additions were brought about by relevant researches and studies from partners in the academe which looked into issues of health and economics affecting Filipino elderly. As such, many details were also clarified through active policy-making and coordination by the National Coordinating and Monitoring Board (NCMB). Chaired by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the NCMB Secretariat regularly communicated and coordinated with the proper government agencies like the Department of Health (DOH), the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) formerly known as the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD). Now, it has been declared that some doctor-prescribed vitamins and minerals used to treat deteriorating health conditions of the elderly must be discounted just like many maintenance drugs. 

Another area which was greatly improved is on hospitalization benefits of seniors. Previously, this aspect was governed by the DOH through various issuances detailing computed discounts for room rates, laboratory and diagnostic tests, drugs and medicines, and even the professional fees of attending physicians. The new DOH guidelines, namely DOH Administrative Order No. 2012-0007, Series of 2012 now applies the 20% discount and the applicable 12%VAT exemption to the TOTAL hospitalization billing. Moreover, the separate availment of PhilHealth coverage has been institutionalized under the new rules. Seniors can get both their 20% SC discount and PhilHealth benefits during hospitalization.

It is also quite fortunate that the PhilHealth has been quite proactive and has been updating their rules and issuing relevant guidelines to facilitate availment of benefits especially for senior citizens. Among its improved programs and services are the “discounted” vaccines for seniors at selected Philhealth-accredited government hospitals to avoid affliction with influenza and pneumonia. Meanwhile, their “Lifetime Membership” program allows retirees and seniors to complete payment of a minimum number of months for automatic PhilHealth coverage which shall remain valid and in-effect until the senior eventually gets deceased. On the other hand, the “sponsored” program for indigent senior citizens is specifically mandated under the Mandatory Philhealth Coverage provisions of RA9994 and is being implemented in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s National Household Targeting System (DSWD-NHTS). This same database of identified indigent senior citizens has also been utilized by the DOH as the basis for their FREE influenza and pneumonia vaccines program.

And speaking of particular benefits targeting indigent senior citizens, the Social Pension Program providing a monthly stipend of P500 has been found to make such an impact in improving the quality of life of poor elderly folk. Families report that they no longer feel so burdened caring for ageing parents or relatives because of this small allowance which helps with the family’s finances. The seniors themselves say they use the money they receive to buy their maintenance drugs, go for medical check-ups, or buy some food items like milk or rice. Evidently, this ultimately redounds to improved health and well-being of senior citizens.

Other significant health or medical-related provisions under RA9994 is the establishment of a geriatric ward in every government hospital, or at the very least a special unit reserved for sick senior citizens in all medical facilities. Already there is the Eva Macapagal National Center for Geriatric Health (NCGH) located near Malacanang which specializes in geriatric care and is equipped with state-of-the art facilities and equipment. Meanwhile, a comprehensive and integrated national health program for senior citizens must also be developed by the DOH as expressly provided for under RA 9994.  Hence, their current program for “active ageing” includes the conduct of regular “fitness camps” for elderly government employees and soon-to-be retirees. 

Admittedly, there is still much to be desired for a uniform and effective implementation of RA9994. Even with greater efforts from the concerned government agencies, the cooperation of the private sector is still essential. Thus, dialogues with the business establishments and appropriate orientations/trainings to familiarize them with relevant guidelines must also be encouraged.

The same goes for the senior citizens themselves; they must be given special lectures and capability-building sessions to inform them of their rights and privileges under RA9994, and how they can avail of these benefits and privileges properly and reasonably. 

Lastly, existing mechanisms and institutional arrangements like the establishment of Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) in every city or municipality, the active engagements and participation of Regional Coordinating and Monitoring Boards (RCMBs) and Regional Inter-Agency Committee for Senior Citizens (RIASC) must be strengthened and/or improved on to ensure proper monitoring and implementation.

Footnote to the WHO Western Pacific Regional Meeting in July 2013

On July 9 to 11, 2013, the World Health Organization (WHO) Meeting on Ageing and Health for the Western Pacific Region was held in Manila. Together with representatives from the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) was tasked to present a Country Report on government policies and programs promoting elderly care and welfare in the Philippines. Other representatives from the DOH included Dr. Irma Asuncion, and DSWD’s regular partners, Dra. Elizabeth “Bambi” Caluag, and Ms. Remedies “Jing” Guerrero. Besides Atty. Germaine Trittle P. Leonin of the National Coordinating and Monitoring Board (NCMB) Secretariat, DSWD was also represented by Director Patricia Luna, Asst. Bureau Director Paz Sarino, Ms. Marlyn Moral of Social Technology Bureau and Ms. Fritzie Barrameda of Standards Bureau.   

It has been a particular advantage for the Philippines to have clear mandates in our 1987 Constitution, identifying the senior citizens as a vulnerable and marginalized sector. Moreover, provisions on Social Justice and Human Rights clearly mandates raising the quality of life for all. Other national laws like the Magna Carta of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as well as the Accessibility Law are PWD-related legislation which may be taken advantage of by our senior citizens.  

Meanwhile, the prime legal basis, Republic Act No. 9994 as the 3^rd version of the senior citizens law tries to be a comprehensive, integrated piece of legislation for addressing the needs of the senior citizens. Besides healthcare provisions, it tackles educational opportunities, continuing employment, availment of livelihood skills training, as well as social pension benefits. And, besides the relevant legislations for senior citizens like the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, our national sectoral plan - the Philippine Plan of Action for Senior Citizens (PPASC) 2012-2016, especially the area of concern “Advancing Health and Well-being” was highlighted in the Country Report. 

The DOH’s thrust of promoting “healthy living and active ageing” was also something to be proud of. A key to well-being is healthy eating and proper nutrition. Food choices and basic cooking preparations were just as important as the amount of food intake. Nutrition and proper eating is also a strategy which can be used effectively to address health issues and other diseases. Besides genetic tendencies and ageing consequences, lifestyle practices also contribute to health risks. Avoidance of vices such as smoking and alcohol drinking, and most of all drugs, was also emphasized. Being prone to certain injuries because of weakness and frailty, especially for those slowly ageing already, assistive devices and safe, age-friendly environments such as facilities and transport are important. 

As such, with the healthcare needs being a major part of the ageing policies and programs, there is a need to focus on improving the health human resources component as well - be it institutionalizing geriatrics and gerontology as part of the curricula of various disciplines and not just the medical field, or giving specialized trainings for the “non-formal” medical practitioners, such as TESDA-trained caregivers and community-based, homecare caregivers. 

It is also important that there should be a proper institutional arrangement or mechanisms in place to implement the policies and programs for senior citizens. Thus, the National Coordinating and Monitoring Board (NCMB) and its regional counterparts, the RCMBs, as well as the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) are quite significant. It was also interesting to cite that the active participation of our senior citizens groups, as organized and established federations and associations ensured the sector’s direct involvement in all matters pertaining to them. However, even as the DSWD and the DOH are able to work together and are currently coordinating well, it is still highly advisable that there be established a primary government agency which shall focus on the elderly population and all its related concerns, much like the other sectors of children, women and PWDs, for the purposed of having clear and unified policy directions, a specific budget allocation, including a dedicated workforce contingent.

Although the WHO meeting seemed mainly focused on healthcare for the elderly, most of the recommendations recognized the need for an integrated, comprehensive approach to elderly care. This includes an improved financial capability that meant continuing education, employment or livelihood opportunities, assured pension benefits, accessible and affordable health programs and services, etc. Based on the sharings of “Best Practices”, the Philippines should be proud of its government efforts and measures promoting and protecting the rights of our senior citizens. With all the recommendations about having an “integrated and comprehensive” approach to elderly care, our RA 9994 alone exactly seeks to accomplish that already.

Given the current discussions at the United Nations-level in New York, particularly the Open-ended Working Group on the proposed UN Convention on the Rights of the Elderly, a specific treaty or convention as an international human rights instrument which demands compliance is always a strong compelling basis for national governments to give attention to the needs of a particular sector. The DSWD provided essential comments and inputs to the country position the DFA hoped to advance in August 2013 in New York. The WHO, as a UN body, was requested to make a similar positive representation in New York to support this stance.

Remember Your Dreams, Young Man (For Marben)

We remember you as a curly-haired boy in pajamas
picking me up after night classes at UP Law
and within those hallowed halls you decided
what your future would be...
Remember those dreams, young man

In grade school, your teacher asked all of you
what do you want to be when you grow up,
listening to all professions named you never settled;
as sure and unblinking you replied
- to be the President of the Philippines

You always knew what you wanted
and was willing to work hard for it;
for a generation blessed with wikipedia and google,
I saw you do diligent research on the internet
as you tried to finish a paper for school

the youngest ever to learn how to drive,
you were driving around San Carlos by fifteen;
you single-handedly arranged a day-trip to Sipaway Island,
negotiating with the boatman, arranging for our packed food,
and planning the whole island itinerary

even then we knew, we had faith in you
because you made us believers in your abilities
So know that even when we make bad decisions for ourselves
it is always our choice if they remain mistakes or Life's lessons learned
Remember your dreams, young man...

GPL 7/12/2014

Changing Landscapes Part 2: Youthful Reminiscings

As we moved further north, another well-known story from my youth is the famous church at Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur. Built on top of a steep hill, it was in honor of the Virgin Mary who appeared on top of a guava tree at the same site. One of the UNESCO heritage sites of Ilocos, much of its red brick and original limestone are still intact although I noticed that the original marker has been replaced. I was told that a new parish priest removed that image of Mama Mary on a guava tree.  After that, the town of Sta. Maria experienced a succession of calamities - typhoons, floods and earthquakes. Finally some old folk persuaded the parish priest to re-install the marker, albeit a different one. And they even put the same image on the side wall of the church which was already cemented thereby marring the original façade. It has become partly unrecognizable from back when UP Los Banos Humanities class field trips used to make the annual trek to Ilocandia.

A bit of good news greeted me however, when I was informed that the current mayor has developed a decent footpath and staircase going up to the famous site of “Paddak ni Angalo”. To see this so-called footprint of the giant Angalo, one had to hike up a slippery dirt trail up the mountains. Nowadays, cemented stone steps facilitate the long climb up where one can also glimpse some waterfalls and mountain springs. But I am not sure if they have developed the spot enough to encourage swimming.

Speaking of the giant Angalo, legend also says he had a wife. The giantess, Ara was said to be buried near the coastlines of Ilocos Sur, and “Suso Beach” was named after her because from afar, the mountains form the figure of a woman with the mounds of her breasts forming the rolling hills. Sadly, the view I saw during my latest visit to Ilocos looks like a woman who just had a mastectomy. Extensive quarrying activities allowed by the local officials have destroyed this legendary image. No longer can parents regale their kids with stories and folklore that one can point out in the landscape during their long drives up.

That wasn’t the only change in the Ilocos Sur coastline that caught my eye. During the Marcos era, Imelda wanted to make local tourism as a means of self-sufficiency for each municipality. In the towns of San Esteban and Narvacan, tourist rest stops and mini-parks were established. Even if the powerful waves and rocky beach didn’t make them ideal swimming areas, picnic tables and swimming pools were available at these facilities. But I was told that these were allowed to slowly rot away – unused and unmaintained with no hope of being revived.

Coming up the great Abra river, the famous Banawang bridge comes into view. A perennial feature in various 1980s Filipino movies, this bridge has endured numerous typhoons and floods. But several reconstructions over the years can no longer sustain or ensure its safety feature and a newer bridge had to be built alongside it. Appearing as sturdy as it used to, it can only be used by light vehicles now and the buses and trucks that regularly traverse this route are compelled to use the other bridge. Still it remains a majestic structure against the backdrop of the ancient mountains and mighty river. It’s no surprise many still stop by for a foto-op or two.

In Vigan and Bantay, many of the ancestral homes I took for granted in my youth have disappeared. The very few which remained have fortunately been salvaged to serve as part of the Heritage Village. The plazas I used to play in and ride my bike have become cramped with stage platforms, basketball courts and commercial establishments. Even the church compounds now seemed smaller – with the Easter Sunday “salubong” scaffolding made of cement and metal now permanently standing in its grounds. It used to be made of bamboo and plywood. Hence every year, you never know which street corner it would be constructed on and every other barangay can have the chance to play host.

Although my sisters had visited Ilocos too at one time or another, I wondered if they saw it as I did. Did they also feel a sense of nostalgia like me? Did they even notice the big changes in these old places, or were their memories of our childhood too foggy already to remember any of the things we saw then as kids.

I hope that someday we can take this trip down memory lane again together.

Changing Landscapes: Legendary La Union

When people wonder why I proudly declare myself as a “GI” or genuine Ilocana even as I already grew up in Metro Manila, they soon find out that it’s because my parents and grandparents from both sides of the family all hail from the North. While I can understand the language and still speak a few bits and pieces of Ilocano, I only got to spend a few weeks of each year in the region when I was growing up. But one of the highlights of our summers then was the annual trek to the beach and this had to be in La Union. With its long coastline, gently sloping into the sea and its soft, gray sands, it was the perfect beach destination before heading for Baguio to cool off. Though I agonized about the long drives before, now I remember them with fondness as I keep returning every now and then and notice the big changes in the countryside. As one enters the province of La Union, you come upon a fork in the road that is the town of Rosario. This is where a right turn means you’re heading to Baguio through the Pugo-Tuba route, and a left turn means you’re heading towards Ilocos through the coastal towns of La Union. At this junction, there used to be a rest-stop, restaurant cum mini-museum. This circular structure with wide, open windows that let the cool air in especially in the summer, used to house Ilocano artifacts and traditional tools and implements that proudly introduced our Ilocano heritage. Now, all that stands is an old, dilapidated building that serves as an unintentional playground for kids, or a temporary shelter for transients, but not even used by the local government as a security outpost. I remember Rosario for its treehouse I use to climb in my youth. Today, several other La Union towns sport treehouses of their own like Agoo and Balaoan, what with their big acacia trees still standing and perfectly preserved. Through Sto. Tomas, Aringay, Bacnotan, San Juan, Agoo, Bauang and San Fernando, we could catch an occasional glimpse of the South China Sea. When I was a kid, squeals of delight would erupt in the car from my sisters and I as we intermittently get a view of the inviting blue sea. “Malapit na, malapit na tayo sa beach!” my Mom and Dad would promise us, so that we’d quiet down a bit. Nowadays, it’s quite difficult to catch even a glimpse of the beach. Too many commercial establishments have been built by the roadside thus covering one’s view as you drive by. My family is related to the Aquinos, Borjas and Gaerlans of San Juan, and we used to stay at the family beach resort, named after Lolo Mariano and Lola Pilar in Bauang, La Union. I remember MARPIL’s cottages would sometimes be occupied by uncles, aunties, and cousins but a few doors would still be rented out to vacationing foreigners. While fathers, uncles and lolos drank and had their favorite pulutan – kambing, and our mothers, aunties and lolas played mahjong at the resto-pavilion, us kids would frolic on the beach all day. For those who can remember, this same stretch of beach would be shared by neighboring resorts like Nalinac, Long Beach, and Cresta del Mar. But today, only Long Beach still exists. Since the big earthquake of 1990, the coastline seems to have moved and the long stretches of sand reaching out into the ocean have disappeared. No more areas for sunbathing or sandcastle building, or space to do an early morning jogs. Waves now lap constantly at the raised foundations of resorts, hotels and beachside restaurants. Receding tides sometimes offers a small stretch of sand, but more often than not, the sea has encroached upon the seaside spaces of my youth. During a visit to Long Beach a few years ago, I was shocked to find the seawaters so close to where we were eating. I could see and hear the evening waves crashing unto the rocks beneath the restaurant’s floorboards as if any minute the sea would just engulf us. In Bauang and San Fernando this is the reality: there is only the sea for the beach frontage itself are all gone. Meanwhile, the big, scary waves of Agoo and San Juan have become the main tourist attraction here. The same great, crashing waves which our parents warned us about and kept us from swimming in these areas are what surfing enthusiasts have come to conquer. Big business has boomed around this and surfers are now regular visitors, giving new life to the resorts and hotel industry here. Surf shops, restaurants and coffee bars have likewise emerged in the recent years. In La Union, like the rest of the Ilocos region, the old churches are a must-see. As kids, we used to hear mass either at the St. William’s Cathedral of San Fernando or the Basilica of Agoo. The latter was built during the time of Tourism Secretary Aspiras, a known Marcos crony. It got so controversial because of the church mural which included the face of Imelda and Ferdinand Marcos as well as the Aspiras couple. Nearby, across the road, there used to be a museum of sorts where proud Ilocano traditions and culture were displayed. There were religious artifacts dating back to the Spanish colonizers, some old books and documents from the American Period, and World War II memorabilia from the Japanese Occupation. Today the building is part of the local government center, and underneath stands the Senior Citizens Center. While many people flock over to Manaoag in Pangasinan, Piat in Cagayan Valley and Penafrancia in Naga City as popular pilgrimage sites, few know about Our Lady of Namacpacan in La Union. Legend has it that during a time of great drought and famine descended on La Union, an image of the Virgin Mary came to feed the starving people, hence the name “namacpacan” - which means to feed. A church was built in her honor and the spring underneath the church is said to produce miraculous healing waters. And to get so-called nourishing liquid is free, but people must bring their own bottles and containers to get some.

Ilocos 2014: A Lesson in History, Culture and Cuisine

Every year, I manage to visit my parents’ hometowns in the Ilocos region. Fortunate enough to time it with official travels, but without the privilege of a private vehicle, I am compelled to take the long bus ride consisting of at least 7 hours on the road. As in my youth, the road trip is part geography lesson, history and culture, and even a bit of a foodfest. I remember when my parents then would try to entertain us with everything they could think of – naps, food, folklore, stories from their own childhood. My Dad would speak of the old railroad that took him and his family to La Union during the evacuation from Manila in the early 1940s, the swamps in the Candaba area where he hid with fellow guerillas as they survived on Bulacan’s watermelons. It was during that time he contracted malaria and became a non-viable blood donor since. From Pampanga to Capas, Tarlac, he would point out some markers commemorating the infamous Death March. He had these horror stories of a big, black sow wearing wooden clogs, which blocked their bus during a night trip he took to Pangasinan when he was already in college, and this big tree by a mysterious bridge where many vehicular accidents happen. Through it all, we unconsciously learned about the geography of Northern Luzon and even a bit of Philippine history without realizing it. I found out why some parts of Pampanga and Bulacan flood so easily during the rainy season and why there are so many migratory birds flocking to its rice fields at certain times of the year. Nowadays, not many people realize that this area is part of the great marshlands of Candaba. I understood why vast tracks of Tarlac are planted to sugarcane and the Ilocos region is confined mostly to cultivating tobacco. I also came to know that before Dagupan boomed into the provincial capital that it is now, before World War II, it was merely composed of marshes and numerous fishponds locals took their livelihood from. And so I remember all that until now whenever I travel North. And I try to share that information with Toni since she’s from the eastern side of Northern Luzon. All she knows is the route from Bulacan to Nueva Ecija to Nueva Vizcaya to Isabela and then it’s already Cagayan Valley. In late 2013, I literally took a tour of Ilocandia – four provinces in four days. While I had taken Toni to La Union and Baguio in 2012, it was such a whirlwind trip that it didn’t leave much of an impression on her. I always promised her we’d do it right the next time. And the complete travel experience to Ilocos includes partaking of the local cuisine wherever you can find it. And yes, Virginia (tobacco), there is more to Ilocos than our longganisa. Although not much of an eater, I indulged Toni the usual travel fare on buses. Vendors climb aboard our bus offering sweet corn, pork chicharon, and gua(va)apple. From Dau, Pampanga to Tarlac City, assorted sweet treats such as pastillas and macapuno balls abound. I used to say you just know what part of Ilocandia you’re in already by the kakanins being sold. Somewhere in the Ilocano portions of Tarlac and Pangasinan, one gets offered tupig. Known for its wrapping of elongated strips of banana leaves, it’s actually made from rice flour (malagkit), grated coconut, coconut milk and brown sugar roasted over a fire. On occasion, I encountered “special” versions of this grilled delight with peanut crumbs or sesame seeds for added flavor. Being the probinsyana that she is, Toni recognizes most of the ingredients even before I realize it. In Ilocos Sur, the favorite is the gelatinous kalamay made from malagkit rice, coconut milk and that dark brown sugar in blocks known as panucha. Sweet and viscuous, it is similar to the popular tikoy of the Chinese. Oftentimes, it is contained in the bao or halved coconut shells much like the binagol of region 8. After my radio guesting in DZTP Radio Tirad Pass in Candon City, we were gifted by no less than their Mayor Singson with their famous Candon Calamay. Meanwhile, in Ilocos Norte, the tinubong is the kakanin of choice. Made from the same ingredients as the tupig, the main difference is that the malagkit, coconut milk, molasses, and grated coconut mixture is stuffed in bamboo tubes before being grilled over hot charcoals. To get to the tasty stuff inside, one must learn the trick of cracking open the bamboo tubes by hitting it against the ground or against a wall. Finally, how can anyone forget our legendary bibingka. Sticky and gelatinous like kalamay, it is now prepared with cheese grated over it. The “royal” version is extra soft and sticky that it actually melts in your mouth. From my travels to nearby Asian countries, I observed that our kakanins is a cousin to many Indonesian and Malaysian fares of similar concoctions. I am not sure if it was just a matter of culture and common heritage, or the abundance and availability of the ingredients, but one thing for sure, this type of food is both filling and satisfying as an “energy” booster for all the hard work required under the hot Asian sun. The secret also to enjoying the traditional cuisine of any locality is knowing exactly where to find it. (Remember that Dutch couple who toured the Philippines and complained about our food? Well, who would be stupid enough to ask for Vigan longganisa at a 7-11 store?!) Any Vigan Heritage Tourist who did his/her background homework would know enough that the “plaza” is the place to be. While in the olden days the plaza held some political and religious significance to be the center of any township with its proximity to the parish church and the town hall, nowadays it maintains its reputation as the “it/eat” place. And, it isn’t just about the “where”, but the “when”. Depending on what you want to eat, you also have to carefully “time” your gastronomic experience. Arriving at dawn in Ilocos Sur, Toni didn’t want to lose any time at all and wanted to partake of the traditional Ilocano breakfast. So this early, while the plaza is already hustling and bustling, the morning offering is the “singalaw”. Appearing like the classic pinapaitan, this beef-based broth is served hot with cattle innards but without the bitterness. Instead, it is seasoned profusely with Sukang Iloko. For the faint of heart and un-adventurous palate, there is Jollibee, Chow King, and a few other fast food restaurants if you want to stay with your familiar comfort foods. Otherwise, go for the other Ilocano breakfast of Vigan longganisa and eggs with fried rice. Already in the midst of the Heritage Village, we decided to visit some of the famous churches and museums before heading home to rest. While doing the Vigan tour, one can’t miss the St. Paul Cathedral and the Salcedo Plaza in front of the Provincial Capitol. But it is essential that one visits at least one of Vigan’s three popular museums. The ancestral home of Fr. Jose Burgos of the famous GomBurZa (the 3 Filipino priests executed by the Spaniards and are now considered heroes) is the only one run by the government, and although a little dilapidated compared to the others, it still introduces one to the Ilocano culture and heritage. For young kids, this small venue would prove most interesting for its dioramas – miniature depictions of life in the Ilocos. From the mini Chinese junks (trading boats), one can learn just how much trading the merchants from mainland China (and probably Taiwan) did up and down the Northern Luzon coast. It also explains why the Chinese businessmen were so integrated in Vigan high society even before, and nowhere is this more exemplified than in the Syquia Mansion (and Quirino) museum. There is also a display showing how the famous churches were built from the blood and sweat of Filipinos under the polo (forced labor) system, an example of the tobacco industry activities straight from the plantations to the curing houses where the leaves are dried, and an artist’s take on the death of the young General Gregorio del Pilar at the Battle of Tirad Pass near Candon. Successfully evading the notorious Ilocos midday heat, we waited until afternoon to visit the other museums and tourist sites. By the time we finished, it was perfect merienda time and we headed for the Empanadaan, a corner of the Burgos plaza where the classic Ilocano emapanada is made. Fresh from the hand-rolled dough to the vegetable fillings, it is now served with ground meat or longganisa and eggs as a “special” version. Large vats of oil for deep fat frying are evidence that your food gets served hot and fresh off the stove. Toni was so pleased to find that these food stands also offer ukoy. And although I am avowedly averse to taking vinegar with my food, this is one of the few times I actually enjoy it. In fact, it is the sukang iloko and the lasuna (native mini-onions) which are crucial to enjoying the Ilocano empanada. My Toni loved it so much we kept coming back for the next three days. I noticed that there are now pork barbeques being sold alongside the empanadas. These grill places stay until early evening and the unusual yet tasty combination also makes for a great dinner fare. I am told that grilled food is such a favorite amongst tourists that the Ilocanos decided to also integrate it in their tourist attractions. We were quite fortunate to be joined by my Mom on this trip, so it was she who mentioned to Toni that another popular Ilocano fare is our miki. This noodle soup of sorts is chicken-based and colored with achuete. Once again, the uniqueness lies in the special home-made dough that looks like the slightly-flattened linguine pasta. At the new must-see place “Hidden Gardens”, we tried their own version of miki which was garnished with bagnet, another meat favorite from Ilocos. As we ate an early dinner, Mama likewise hints at another meat delicacy – the ladek, our so-called version of the sisig. Bits and pieces of cooked pork formed into meat patties, ladek is wrapped in banana leaves and can be frozen in storage until ready to be eaten by simply placing over freshly cooked rice like the Bicolano pangat. While touring the Vigan Heritage Village looking over the different stores’ wares, one already gets an idea what to bring back as souvenirs and pasalubongs The classic abel blankets are a favorite as well as the burnay, the unique clay pottery still being made in the North. Recently, the chichacorn of various flavors has also become a trademark Ilocano take-home. But true-to-form, Mama once again introduced Toni to a traditional Ilocano product - the basi wine from San Ildefonso. Carrying the brandname “Gongogong”, this bottled beverage made from fermented sugarcane juice is the alcohol of choice of Ilocanos since time immemorial, and was in fact the reason for the great Basi revolt in Philippine history. Today, it has found a resurgence as a favorite pasalubong item and because of its export quality, many Ilocano emigrants and overseas workers bring these as souvenirs for friends and compatriots. And even when we’re already originally from Ilocos, we can’t help but bring back most of these goods on our annual visits as if we’re also tourists experiencing Ilocandia for the first time. For me, I find that the ever changing landscape of Ilocandia makes me see it with new eyes everytime. Besides, watching my beloved Toni enjoy the trip not only brings back my childhood, but allows me to have new memories to cherish as well.

Beginnings and Endings: My 2013

I usually do a recap of my last twelve months at the start of every year. I do it to psychologically “close” the past and look forward to the next few months. It gives me an idea of how much I accomplished for the year, and often, various trips and travels are part of its highlights. With 2011 and 2012 being so hectic, I did not expect my 2013 to be any different. I was prepared to embark on numerous travels and official trips as is my wont. However, I did not expect it to start so soon as in January. Due to some leftover work before the year ended, and of some upcoming travels I was anticipating, I had to begin travelling by second or third week of the new year. Thus, I found myself contending with the Sinulog fever in Cebu which had me scrambling for accommodations and for plane seats on the few flights which weren’t fully booked already. While I was happy to experience this popular festival in honor of the Sto. Nino for the first time, I was quite wary of the big crowds. Besides the hotels, the restaurants and malls were all so full of people. Fortunately, my official business was taking me to the distant towns of Barili and Tuburan so I was able to leave the madness in the city. I have been to Cebu numerous times already and it has always been a favorite destination of mine. It is “urbanized” enough to have the usual comforts of city-life – the malls for quick shopping sprees, the familiar fastfood restaurants for the unadventurous palate, and yet, it was near enough to the beaches and other tourist spots one can easily escape to for an enjoyable vacation. This time though I was excited about discovering Cebu province’s other areas. Although I knew both Barili and Tuburan were poor municipalities, I have heard of Cebu’s natural resources as one of its greatest secrets. And so, just as I was fortunate enough to see the town of Loon’s mangrove monkeys park in Bohol, I was able to see Barili’s four “mini” waterfalls and hydro-power plant at Mantayupan, as well as its local church which is one of the oldest parishes established by the Spanish friars. On the way back, we passed by the city of Carcar, famous for its chicharon and ampao delicacies. Accidental tourist that I am, I stumbled upon another treasure – it’s old church of St. Catherine’s and it’s perfectly preserved and renovated dispensary-periculture facility. Once a local pharmacy and mini hospital for mothers and young children during the American Occupation, it has now been turned into a local museum with an impressive display on Cebuano cultural heritage. The next day, we headed out of Cebu City in the other direction for Tuburan. Traversing the mountainous side of the province, the scenery reminded me of Tagaytay -cool and foggy. Even the fruit stands by the roadside were reminiscent of the Sta-Rosa-Silang, Cavite route. Ironically, we chose this “shortcut” to quickly get to Tuburan which was actually a coastal town on the other side of the province. It faces Negros island and serves as a small port for travelers to and from Negros Occidental. Having finished with my official business interviewing social pensioners, I ventured into its small, fledgling museum in honor of its famous son, military General Arcadio Maxilom. At the mayor’s instructions, I was also taken to see their gigantic, centuries-old tree and the freshwater spring in Molo-Bolo which empties out into the sea. I remember that these few remaining research locations were the last to conduct our social pension interviews in. They got left to me because no one else wanted them and everybody else had finished with their assignments already. So by default, the choice was made for me when I got assigned Cebu City, Barili and Tuburan. Had I not accepted, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to visit these amazing places. I understood then why we must be like the leaf sometimes – to blow with the wind and go wherever it takes us; because sometimes, when we suddenly wake up, we may find ourselves in a much better place. Before the month of January ended, I had my first out-of-the country trip which was LGBT rights-related. I was invited by the Dutch Foreign Ministry and COC Netherlands to speak at a special seminar they organized for embassy and consular representatives of European Union member countries. I was the only Filipino and only Asian there to give them an idea on how their investments and funding policies can help protect and promote the human rights of sexual minorities. I never imagined myself to be speaking before consular officers and embassy representatives of big European nations; conducting a lecture on an area of human rights that was so unpopular and unknown to some government officials and legal professionals. And so I did the only thing I knew how, something I do best - I spoke from the heart. It was a proud moment for me, but I never realized that all the SOGI rights advocacy work I was doing could have such an impact in the world, as months later the EU States accepted the European Commission designed LGBT rights “toolkit” into a full-blown, Gender and Development manual of sorts for use by European countries in their engagements with Third World nations. In the month of February, it was back to local travels for me as I did the last leg of social pension program interviews in Negros. Having finished with Bacolod in December, I now headed for Cadiz City. Although this was declared a “city”, records showed economic disparities in the area qualified some senior citizens as social pension beneficiaries because they were considered “indigent”. Amidst an ocean of sugarcane plantations, black pepper and prawn farms, Cadiz was also known for its succulent seafood. This fact failed to impress me, however, because of my food allergies. But as I headed back to Bacolod, I was able to meet up with some local LGBT friends and do a short talk for them on SOGI rights. This was quite significant because it was meant to inform them and assist in the anti-discrimination ordinance they were pushing for in the local council. It was also the last provincial lecture I would be doing for Rainbow Rights Project, that ground-breaking LGBT rights NGO I founded in 2005. While I promised to still do LGBT advocacy in my own way, I said goodbye to a “project” of mine that I never thought could influence LGBT rights advocacy in the Philippines - one that bridged the different LGBT groups across the country and truly empowered Pinoy LGBTs by educating them about their basic human rights, and familiarizing them with entitlements and protections under Philippine law. March found me taking advantage of my annual bonding time with my Mom and special leaves. As part of my continuing LGBT rights advocacy, I was called upon to go to Nepal for a regional conference on human rights and Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. I was one of only a handful of representatives from South East Asia, and this time, I spoke about the unique strategies for engaging our national governments in the promotion and protection of LGBT rights. Looking back now, I never thought I could bring my advocacy work to such international levels. While I only sought to make things better for myself and fellow LGBTs in the Philippines, I didn’t think other countries would follow suit and take the cue from Filipino LGBT advocates. 2013 was also an election year, and our LGBT party, LADLAD made another bid for a congressional seat as a partylist representation. Honored as I was to again be elected as a nominee, I had to withdraw because of the new COMELEC ruling on government employees running for public office. My changing priorities in my personal life drove me to make this very difficult decision late in 2012 although I continued to “campaign” for LADLAD in my own way. Thankful as we are for the increasing support from other sectors and partylists, I still believed it was a great opportunity for any marginalized community to have its own voice in the legislature. If only the LGBT sector finally realizes this and manages to unite for a common goal like my beloved senior citizens, instead of “sabotaging” each other with such pettiness. The middle of 2013 found me slowing down, not even taking advantage of the Holy Week and summer months exodus to the provinces. Somehow, the Fates threw me a bone and I got the chance to finally see Roxas City in Capiz and Boracay in late May. Albeit I was working and on official business, it was still a treat for my 43rd birthday. Indeed, the white sand beaches and spectacular sunsets was quite a sight. But after having been to Patar beach in Bolinao, Pangasinan and Alona beach of Panglao island in Bohol, I was no longer that impressed. On vacations, I usually turn “anti-social”, and I especially despised the crowds in Boracay. The sheer number of people seemed to shatter the essence and idea of a holiday escape. Thus, the “lazy pace” and the reasonable prices of “tourist traps” in Roxas City and Pan-ay in Capiz held more appeal for me. In June, I went back to Tuguegarao with my partner, Toni and our little Venice. It was the first time in eleven months that she had been home to see most of her family members. I was there also to meet them officially and ask their permission before we had our commitment ceremony. A true daughter of Cagayan Valley, Toni toured me in the city, showed me some local haunts, and as I requested, went with me to visit Our Lady of Piat. I have cultivated a devotion for this pilgrimage site since I noticed it keeps on answering my prayers – and Toni was one such answered prayer. When I asked Apo Baket of Piat for a new love in 2012, I didn’t expect her to play favorites and gift me with her fellow Cagayana. The next few weeks passed by uneventfully until September when I finally got to visit our Field Offices for some technical assistance and monitoring for senior citizens concerns. The very efficient senior citizens Focal Persons for regions X, XI and V were resourceful enough to provide a venue and occasion for some RA 9994 updates. The other regions had to wait for another month or so to get some technical assistance. But once I began, it started to get hectic for me all over again. October started off with the whirlwind that was the annual Elderly Filipino Week celebrations. After a special forum for DSWD Central Office retirees and consultative conference on elderly concerns at PWU, DSWD-NCR had me giving the first RA9994 training for OSCA Heads of Metro Manila - a co-sponsored activity with Makati City. This was followed by a week-long appearance in Baguio City for DSWD-CAR and Field Office I whose senior citizens Focal Persons were fortunately able to coordinate their events with my schedule. This trip was extra special since I was travelling with my sister Giselle and it was Venice’s first time in Baguio. Reliving our childhood memories, we made sure Venice also enjoyed Baguio like we once did as kids. In between, I also did talks for government offices like the Bureau of Customs and some LGUs like Muntinlupa City. Meanwhile, November was coming up and I always had to work on Toni’s birthday. So this time, I managed to time it with an official visit to Field Office II. While I did my lectures, she at least had time to visit her grandmothers and other cousins. I guess it sort of made up for the past two years, but this is really no surprise since I do official DSWD work even on MY birthday. Upon our return, I dashed off to a few more regions – namely, Davao, CARAGA and region III. Like Cebu and Cagayan de Oro, Davao City is another one of my favorite destinations. "Citi-fied” enough yet the usual tourist spots just within your grasp for some rest and relaxation. It was also a delight to travel to CDO and Davao because I had some local LGBT friends I liked to reconnect with every so often. That November, I also got the chance to do another first – see Butuan City for the first time. Before year ended, I was able to squeeze in quick visits to the Ilocos region, Cagayan de Oro, Legaspi City in Albay, and Dipolog City in region IX. Those first few days of December was a tour of all four provinces of Ilocandia – Pangasinan, La Union and Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte. What made it tolerable was that I was able to meet up with my Mom in Vigan and Toni finally got to see my hometown for a change. Somehow on official trips like these, my fatigue quickly diminishes when I begin enjoying myself in the company of loved ones. My fourth “firsts” for the year was finally reaching Zamboanga del Norte and seeing Dipolog and Dapitan. While the area is famous for its seafood as well, what I truly cherished was experiencing Rizal’s Dapitan as he lovingly wrote about it. Dakak resort was also a sight for sore eyes and really impressed me. With the Christmas travel rush slowly bearing down, I noticed the airport become more crowded and frenetic than usual. Utterly exhausted, I refused to do any more travelling and made my Bicol run the last for the 2013. While I caught part of its local food festival, I was in too much of a hurry to get back to Manila already to begin my own holiday preparations. 2013 was year for “ending” some relationships and beginning better partnerships. It also meant being confident enough to strike out on my own, being patient and relying on my own abilities. Some people tested my mettle and showed me who I really was. Some friends also showed me the value of their friendships and I realized the importance of spending time with family and loved ones. 2013 taught me what a Life is truly made of – and those are each and every significant little moments that comprise our everyday.