Living life without honor is a tragedy bigger than death itself – Angie Reyes

Living life without honor is a tragedy bigger than death itself – Angie Reyes

“Honor, truth, justice. Honor above all else. Pride goes with it, self-respect, sense of legacy. This is very, very important to me. Sometimes, I am accused of being arrogant. I like to have plenty – a healthy sense – of self-esteem. I react to affronts on this.

There are two options available: to stonewall/fight the legal battle, or to come clean and make my own contribution to cleanse the system.

Stonewalling, I am told, would result in a long, protracted legal battle. However, past cases are not being resolved either way, kept in state of limbo. People’s memories are short and all this will eventually fade into public disinterest, and eventually oblivion. So, not to worry.

Coming clean, on the other hand, cannot be done without giving up something. I have decided to come clean, bare my heart and speak the truth. The truth can cut two ways: 1. If you are guiltless, you can embrace the truth and hope that it will protect you; 2. If you are not guiltless, speak the truth and it shall set you free.

I speak the truth not to whistle-blow or to seek neither immunity nor protection nor to escape from any form of liability. As a matter of fact, I speak the truth to accept responsibility for whatever liability I may have.

Honor is above all else. More valuable than freedom or even life itself. Therefore, honor must be guarded/defended with your life.

Living life without honor is a tragedy bigger than death itself.

Stonewalling would mean I would have to go on every day of my life or at least a large part of it under a cloud of public suspicion, at least until the case is resolved. Every day as you continue to live with the lie, you lose a little of your self-respect. And every day, as people look at you, you can read from their minds that they find you dishonorable, and you die a little. So if you stonewall – and you have the connections, resources and power to sustain it, and perhaps the thick face to endure it – that would be the preferred option. I have none of these, and so I choose the path of honor.

My honor has been attacked and damaged. I still have a lot of pride and self-respect, and I’d like to come clean to preserve whatever honor is left.

We see plenty of people walking around who have been clearly disgraced in the eyes of the people, and I do not want to join their ranks.

I think if you want to cleanse the system and for there to be justice, it should be applied equally and well. Our experience has shown that those with position and power, support and connection invariably go scot-free. I don’t have any of these.

It is unfortunate that we have a huge canvas here of which, I admit, I have been a part; unfortunately, people are now inclined to make me the face of that problem for their own various reasons.

When I participated in EDSA II, even then I anticipated that something like this would happen when I made enemies both on a personal and official level. In my long years of service, I knew that I would have to come to terms with this enmity some day.


I might not be guiltless/faultless, but I am not as evil as some would like to portray.

To my friends and those who have known me and believed in me, I honestly believe I did not let you down.

I want to assure the (PMA) cadet corps, current and future, that there are plenty of military professionals who have served and will continue to serve the country well. Do not be disheartened by this turn of events. Yours is a noble profession (of arms), and you should feel no shame. I have tried to live with integrity, loyalty, and courage.

In my 48 years of public service, I have tried to live up to the highest levels of professionalism and integrity. Whether it’s my assignment with the AFP-RSBS or with the Anti-Smuggling Task Force, I never received any offers of bribes; in fact, I returned them. In all my assignments, 39 years in the military and 9 years in four different Cabinet positions, I have never had any favorite supplier. Neither have I ever extorted money nor set any financial precondition for the approval of any contract. I can honestly say that I served honestly and well.

We are now in the situation where my honor and the family name are at stake. My family, my children, my grandchildren could say with a lot of truthfulness and pride that in the family, we value honor and integrity. Strength to live it and the courage to face up to the truth. This is the legacy I would like to leave with them.

Honor, truth, but there must be justice. And justice can be served if laws are applied evenly and well – not favoring the rich and powerful. I hope my case/situation will not be used as something that would bring closure to the issue of military corruption. The fight to reform the system and the entire country must continue; the sad part is that they are selectively targeting individuals and institutions.

I did not invent corruption. I walked into it. Perhaps my first fault was in having accepted aspects of it as a fact of life.

While I am familiar with finance, I must admit I had scant knowledge of military comptrollership. Personally, zero experience. Never been assigned as disbursement officer, etc., no stint. It’s a military field of specialization that I do not have.

No system is perfect. The AFP system needs a lot of systemic solutions…And the same might be true of some other institutions.

Tinyente pa ako, ganyan na ang sistema (i.e., “conversion” system, etc.)… I can perhaps be faulted for presuming regularity in a grossly imperfect system. As CS (chief of staff), a big landscape, presume regularity, convenient to ignore it, accept it as part of the system. It’s easy to say, institute reforms after the problems have erupted.

I joined EDSA II at great risk. Jumped into a void. Coming from a place that was high and comfortable. Without any regard for compensation or recognition or reward. I thought what I did – being loyal to the Flag and putting the national interest above all else – a right, but I was faulted for not being loyal to the commander-in-chief, that I should have stuck with him to the end, however that end might be. I stuck it out with the GMA administration for 9 years, not under the banner of loyalty; I could have deserted GMA, but I did not want to be branded as someone who abandoned his superiors…”

When we participated in many military campaigns, I would like to think that I showed courage…” – PCIJ, February 2011

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copied from kawani ng gobyerno

Spending the Week at Montevista Villas

I am here now in Montevista Villas located at Clark, Pampanga, Philippines with my colleagues at DepEd-IMCS. It is such a nice place and I enjoy bonding with my friends.

Today is the second day of our activity and the discussion is so heightened due to some feedback given by the employees.

Anyway, I will share to you one of our photos during the workshop. I wish you are here with me. Ciao.

For Sec. Reyes (The Warrior is a Child)

"Lately I've been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight
People say that I'm amazing
Strong beyond my years
But they don't see inside of me
I'm hiding all the tears"

"They don't know that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
'Cause deep inside this armor
The warrior is a child"

"Unafraid because His armor is the best
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
People say that I'm amazing
Never face retreat
But they don't see the enemies
That lay me at His feet"

"They don't know that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and and cry for just a while
'Cause deep inside this armor
the warrior is a child"

"They don't know that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and look up for a smile
'Cause deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
The Warrior is a Child"

like a child, he sought his mother to seek comfort...to unload his heart.

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taken from the internet - Kawani ng Gobyerno (Arman)

Good luck is often with the man who doesn’t include it in his plans

Whew… here I am again. Same old story, I think.

Last year, I applied for a foreign training scholarship and was one of those nominated by my department. Unfortunately, my nomination letter was signed three days late of the deadline and after I gave it to the sponsoring agency and asked one of the staff to include it in my papers I was told that my other docs were already sent to the sponsoring country. What? The most important doc (my nomination letter) was still with me and you sent my package to …. without it! Right there and then I knew I would not get that scholarship grant.

A couple of days ago I found another opportunity to apply in a foreign a training program, actually, it was my colleague who saw the details and was so kind to relay the information to me. So I called the department personnel for some pieces of information… and I was told that the program was closed ten days ago. Ahhhh. Am I destined to lose, again?

No, not this time… I told myself. I insisted that the program’s deadline would still be next month how come it was already closed? She told me to wait for she will ask her superior. So I waited… waited with a smile on my lips … anticipating for a positive response and voila! This wonderful girl told me that the deadline was extended for another day and if I have the proper documents I will be interviewed the next day. I almost fall on my sit… err… I got so excited… I faxed the docs that day and had my interview the other day.

I was speechless during the interview, if anybody would come nearer he/she would hear the sounds of my heartbeat. I was so nervous…after signing the attendance sheet I was asked to wait for a while and later I was asked to answer essay questions… what? I thought it was an interview?

So I answered essay questions that asked what the training program would do to myself and my organization. I cannot forget my answers especially the last paragraph, to wit: “Helen Keller was once asked, “What would be worst than being born blind?” she said, “Having a sight without a vision.” and I added words that the program will provide sight with vision to my department.

During the interview proper I was told to answer four major questions and some minor ones by the panel of interviewers.

After the interview I was told by the desk officer to prepare some other documents especially the nomination form. I dropped on my chair!

Tomorrow I will discuss the other details… I am so tired.

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This is a repost. I am migrating all my files from Friendster to this blog.

4th Friday at Max's through Novartis

I got prick just a minute ago and guess what my blood sugar count was? Ewwww... it's 154. Terrible!

What did I eat yesterday and this morning...grrrr...

Today is the Day!

I will share with you some details on what transpired during my morning interview at HRDS - I was then applying for an Administrative Officer V position. Three interviewers (2 from HRDS and I think 1 from the personnel dep't) subjected the 3 of us (interviewees) into Q&A portion. I am glad that I didn't feel nervous at all and I was able to convey the message clearly and I answered all the questions thrown at me. As we were about to leave the room one interviewer asked, "What will you bring with you to this company?" My answer was short and straightforward and it goes this way, "I enjoy working in an environment wherein people bounce their ideas from one another and has the flexibility to ask for help. I love give and take. That's what I will bring to this company - team work and flexibility." I am so happy with my answer.

During the evening, I attended the household meeting of Couples for Christ at the DepEd Chapel. I wasn't able to attend regularly during Thursdays but I made sure that I would never miss this day. I didn't expect to see Usec. Bacani to be there, though, I know that he's been very active during his time at the Central Office. It was during this time that the noodle's controversy was already known to all DepEd employees. I was expecting that perhaps he will state his side, etc. regarding the issue. I was wrong. Not even a single word (about the scandal)was given. I was flabbergasted to see this man coming to this little chapel telling about his health condition, sharing how his life at Innotech was and not telling or defending himself about the raps he was accused of.

I have been asking questions, why the secretary of education during that time (JAL) was not included in the preventive suspension since it was a command responsibility, and why the Office of the Ombudsman has an outright decision for DepEd's case (so fast) while other controversial issues like ZTE, Ampatuan, Gen. Garcia, etc. were left pending. What I got were more questions than answers. Tsk.tsk.tsk.

Our 11th Year Wedding Anniversary

My wife and I marked our 11th wedding anniversary in the simplest yet most meaningful way. Instead of grand gestures, we chose to celebrate where our hearts feel most at home. We dined at our favorite restaurant, AMIS in Quiapo, Manila — the place where every dish seems to carry a memory, from the comforting aroma of sizzling plates to the warm smiles of the staff who’ve come to know us over the years.After our meal, we strolled hand in hand through the lively streets, stopping by a humble fruit stall bursting with colors — golden mangoes, ruby-red apples, and bananas still warm from the afternoon sun. With our bags full and our hearts fuller, we headed home, where the real joy awaited: surprising our kids with a marathon of their favorite cable TV movies, complete with laughter echoing through the living room and the occasional pillow fight.

No fancy gifts, no glittering surprises — just pure, unfiltered fun.

Thank you, Mommy, for never giving up on me. I know I have my flaws, my moments of weakness, but you’re always there — tapping my shoulder, reminding me with quiet strength that we can always do better together. Here’s to more years of love, laughter, and the kind of togetherness no luxury can buy. Hugs and kisses. ❤️

Attended the Diabetes Education at Max's sponsored by Novartis

It was my 3rd time to attend the Diabetes Education sponsored by Novartis at Max's Robinsons, Manila, Philippines. During my first attendance the speaker talked about the N - Nutrition factor, then it was followed by E - Exercise, and this day the topic was about E - Education. On February 4 the topic would be D - Drugs. As you can see, you can form the word NEED.

The seminar was so informative as the speakers showed various strategies through video presentation and lectures. After the discussion, Q and A followed. The participants were given hand-outs and kits. Sumptuous food were also served before the usual blood sugar monitoring through glucometer. My blood sugar findings were 140, 147, and 112 during the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd week respectively.

I was so amazed by the findings. BTW the seminar is free and every diabetic patient is invited.

See you soon guys!

Changing of Places @ the Office

Movements are inevitable at the office. I will be moving forward from the original position where I occupied.

too many loads @ work

Too many deadlines at work. Hopefully I can finish them all on time. I am planning to re-enrol @ niners for IELTS review. My English comprehension has been rusty that I need to practice again to cope up with the global standards.

I am planning to apply for an scholarship at the Netherlands or in UK to further my studies. I cannot finance my studies privately so I will try if I will be accepted conditionally or unconditionally in various prestigious universities in Europe.

If I can bring my family, better, if not haaay...

Awesome Reunion at Benilda Resort and Restaurant

Wow. We had a wonderful post Christmas reunion at Benilda Resort and Restaurant at Bancuro, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. What a beautiful place. We were treated to world class facilities and awesome structures. Surely, I will visit this place again. To my colleagues at COMEHI Batch '87, thank you for bringing me to this wonderful place.

Excited to Attend a Post-Christmas Celebration with Former Classmates

Ohhhh my, I can't wait to go home to see my former friends and classmates. I am really excited. My family will soon be riding in a bus directly going to Calapan City. I was not able to attend to my mom's 80th birthday last December, I think it is a great opportunity to visit her as well. Mama will be surprised to see the kids too.

Letting Go

I just copied it from one of the articles in the internet. It was long time ago. I can't remember the source. Enjoy!
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Imagine this. In your hand is a very precious creation, so fragile, so valuable that if you keep on holding, it would either stay or fall part. But you loved this creature so much, so much that letting it
go would be like letting go of your life as well. So much that sometimes you wished it would be there forever. So much that you tend to be selfish at times so as you could make it stay for as long as you like.

Don't we all wish something "so good" could be forever? Don't we all hope that happiness is there to stay?

One person said, never ever let your heart run your life, as much as you can, always be sensible and let your mind speak for itself. Try to listen not merely on what your feelings is invoking on you as a person but more importantly listen to reason as well.

Letting go of someone doesn't necessarily mean you have to stop loving, it only means that you allow that person to find his own happiness without expecting him to come back. Letting go is not just setting the other person free (in the real sense of it), but it is also setting yourself free from all animosity, revulsion, and resentment that was long kept in your heart. You have to let go because the bitterness often puts away the strengths and
wakens the littlest hope, making our lives more miserable than ever. Worst, presenting yourself as the "most affected one" sets the nastiest impression of all time--whatta a loser!

The trick there is...always remember that if you lose someone today, it means that someone better is coming tomorrow.

If you lose love that doesn't mean that you failed in love...right? Just regard it as another mismatch of heaven! Well, you can cry of course, or whine or shout (growl even) if you have to, but make sure that after those outbursts you have washed away the hurt and the bitterness that the past has left with you (easy said than done I know!).

We can all survive with just beautiful memories of the past but real peace and happiness come only with open acceptance of what reality is today. You really don't have to forget someone you love ('cause it's hard). What we need to learn is how to accept the verdict of reality without being bitter or sorry for what we have become. I think it's better that we give off that dedication and love to someone more deserving. Hmmm..."Who could it be" is the next
interesting question to ponder.

Let go of yesterday and love will find its way back to you. And when it does, pray hard that it may be the love that will stay and last a lifetime.

= TheRe is Life aFter The Pain... just believe.