To the Via Times’s Readers

By: Bob Boyer

 

In a note “To The Reader” at the beginning of my 2010 book, “Sundays in Manila,” I explain why I wrote it. That explanation is the same for the articles I have written for many years for “VayaTimes.”

“My object in writing this book is to offer a traveler’s appreciation of the Philippines and its people from my personal experiences during three (later four) separate visits to the country, including teaching in Manila for a semester in 1998. My hope is that the book will be both useful and interesting to American readers, including Filipino Americans, and that it may make worthwhile—perhaps diverting—reading for Filipinos.”

What I didn’t say then, but should have, is that writing about the Philippines has been greatly rewarding to me. For starters I was privileged to visit the Philippines, primarily but not exclusively Manila, on four occasions.

I went there first in 1994 with colleagues from the Green Bay area on an “immersion experience,” a chance for a varied group, mostly educators but with an interesting mix from the arts community. That visit led to my college, St. Norbert College, establishing a faculty exchange with the University of the Philippines Diliman, a fortunate arrangement for several years. Professor Gemino (Jimmy) Abad came to SNC, and I went to UPD in 1998—the Centennial Celebration year of the Philippines.

I returned to the Philippines in 2004 to do additional research for “Sundays in Manila,” especially focusing on Corregidor and Bataan. My last visit was in 2010, to help prepare—and celebrate— the publication of “Sundays.” And to gather more information for the articles I was now writing for “VayaTimes.” A special bonus of that trip was being accompanies by my older brother, a fellow traveler and adventurer. One of our highlights was visiting Palawan, especially, Puerta Princessa. We met the mayor, who was something of a Filipino version of Robin Hood, robbing the rich to give to the poor.

I subsequently continued writing my monthly column, “Philippines.” I’ve relied on my memories and notes from the visits, with help from the friends I had made there. My first mentors, Butch and Beng Dalisay, and a few others, have continued to provide helpful firsthand information and insights. And I have become further acquainted with the world-class Filipino news media.

There has never been a time when I have had to look far to find an intriguing subject. Most recently I have been inspired by the work of Maria Ressa, editor of the online newspaper “Rappler.” I have written frequently about her in this column, including last month. She, of course, in 2022 became the first Filipino to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

I am deeply grateful to Veronica Leighton and the fondly remembered Joe Mauricio. I very much enjoy reading their columns that welcome readers into each edition. I’ve had the pleasure—and honor—to know both of them for nearly twenty years. Particular kudos to Veronica for continuing publishing and writing since Joe’s death. When Veronica tells we are amazing, she is speaking from personal experience.

Finally, thanks to you the readers. And, while this is my final article for “VayaTimes,” you can still reach me at Robert. boyer@snc.edu.