Editor’s Note: This piece placed 1st in the Short Story Category of the 2016 Chronicle Literary Awards of Adamson University. While this is a work of fiction, some details are based on the experiences of a Martial law rape victim. Images used are from the film “Ang Mga Alingawngaw sa Panahon ng Pagpapasya” (Echoes in the…
Tag: torture
Moving On from Martial Law?
“Time and pain are necessary in determining the value of our personal belongings, possessions, and things that make us alive…” That’s my Philosophy professor speaking. I was seated in the last row; as the curtain hindered the sun, we were discussing Axiology or the study of value. He gave us a clearer perspective regarding the topic…
“Bury Caesar”
Editor’s Note: This is a direct reply to a recently published article of SubSelfie.com entitled A Hero’s Burial? Dear Alaysa, I read your article detailing the events of how your family ‘suffered’ under Martial Law. It would be preposterous if I say ‘I feel your pain’ and that whatever ‘injustice’ was done is too trivial. I…
A Hero’s Burial?
The incoming president, Rodrigo Duterte, tells us that for those who suffered abuses during Martial Law: “It’s just a matter of distributing the award. So anong problema? Patay na ‘yung tao.” (So what’s the problem? The person is dead.) Well you see, Mr. President-elect, my late granduncle Dr. Johnny Escandor died under the dictatorship — his…
The PNP’s Chance at Redemption by Howie Severino
At no other time in recent memory has any group of policemen elicited as much public sympathy as the Fallen 44 SAF Commandos. In the midst of the horrific nightmare that triggered this outpouring of emotion is an opportunity. At any other time, many of us would regard the police as the least heroic, most…
Love in the Time of Martial Law
Editor’s Note: Just in case you think it’s unimportant — Moving On from Martial Law? Fe and Roger had been co-teachers in a university for quite some time, occasionally exchanging nods and “hellos” inside the campus. But it was only when Roger won his first Palanca award on his poem “Mga Duguang Plakard” (Bloodied Placards) that Fe took…
Desaparecidos: The Effects of Their Mysterious Abductions
Desaparecidos are people who vanished without a trace and against their will. The term has roots in Latin America to describe a person who has been secretly imprisoned or killed during a government’s program of political suppression. These abductions happen in the Philippines too. The Philippine Constitution guarantees protection against enforced disappearances. Any arrest or detention needs…
The Myth of ‘The Butcher’ Jovito Palparan by Dano Tingcungco
On August 12, 2014, after two years of hiding, NBI operatives finally captured retired Major General Jovito Palparan in Sta. Mesa, Manila. He now has to face charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention for the disappearance of UP students Karen Empeño and Sherlyn Cadapan in 2006. Palparan has carved a reputation as “The Butcher.” It wasn’t…
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