Showing all posts tagged Philippines

In Blogging and the Web, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

Sunday Stamps: A Tribute to the Mother of People Power

Author sreisaatPosted on 6 Comments

In 2009, PhilPost released a limited edition series of se-tenant stamps commemorating the iconic former Philippine President Corazon C. Aquino. Known affectionately as “Tita Cory,” she was a symbol of democracy and the peaceful People Power Revolution that ousted the Marcos dictatorship.

The stamps featured a se-tenant design, this one (left) showcasing Aquino in her signature yellow dress and flashing the renowned “L” hand sign symbolizing “laban” or “fight.” This colour and gesture became an emblem of the revolution, representing the Filipinos’ determination to reclaim their freedom.

I vividly remember the days of the People Power Revolution. As a young child, I watched the older family members as their eyes were glued to the television, watching the events unfold with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. My family was huddled together, united in their support for Aquino and the democratic movement. My mum was also constantly on the phone, worried about my father who was working in Manila at that time and could not leave the city. The “laban” sign remains, for me, a powerful symbol representing our – the Filipino people’s -ongoing struggle for democracy and peaceful resistance against threats to our rights and freedoms.

The stamps were released a month after Aquino’s passing*, coinciding with the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, reflecting her deep Catholic faith. The limited edition Cory Aquino stamps were so popular that they sold out overnight. PhilPost had to reprint a second edition (not in photo) released in September 18 to satisfy the overwhelming demand, a testament to the public’s affection and respect for the late president.

*Tita Cory passed away on August 1, 2009, leaving a nation in mourning.As the first female president of the Philippines, and Time Magazine’s Woman of the Year in 1986, she led the nation through a period of great turmoil, demonstrating courage and unwavering commitment to her people. The collective grief and reverence for the Aquino family were palpable during the five-day wake, culminating in her interment at Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City, alongside her late husband, the revered Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., on August 5.

More Sunday Stamps over at Violet’s, See it on a Postcard.

In Blogging and the Web, Cambodia life, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

Jeepney: Philippines’ Rolling Masterpieces

Author sreisaatPosted on 8 Comments

For this week’s Thursday Photo Hunt, I’m presenting to you the Philippines’ iconic mode of transportation and a public art gallery on wheels: the jeepney. More than just a vehicle, the jeepney is a living, breathing masterpiece that encapsulates the Filipino spirit.

These colourful jeepneys used to be the King of the Road.

The jeepney was born from the ingenuity of Filipinos after World War II. When American troops left the Philippines, they left behind surplus military jeeps. Resourceful Filipinos transformed these vehicles into public transport, extending their frames, adding roofs, and decorating them. The name “jeepney” is a blend of “jeep” and “jitney,” a term for early American shared taxis. (Source)

Over the years, the jeepneys have evolved into a symbol of the country’s resilience and artistic flair. Adorned with intricate designs, bold colors, and often religious or pop culture themes, jeepneys are a feast for the eyes. They are  like mobile art galleries, each one a unique expression of its owner’s creativity and personality. From religious icons to comic book heroes, the decorations are as diverse as the Filipino people themselves. Today, these vehicles are more than just a means of getting around; they are rolling public art galleries that reflect the nation’s rich culture and imagination.

Riding a jeepney is an adventure in itself. As a former student and a commuter, I can attest to the thrill of squeezing into a packed jeepney with other students, enjoying discounted fares and the camaraderie of shared experiences. The music, the crowds, the constant motion, the smell – it’s a sensory overload. Passing the fare along the row, like a human conveyor belt, to the driver and back for the change, is a unique Filipino custom. And when it’s time to disembark, the simple phrase “mama, para po sa tabi” (stop here, please) is all you need to signal your stop. Beyond the ride itself, the jeepney offers a front-row seat to the daily lives of Filipinos . It’s a place to observe, to connect, and to be inspired by the vibrant spirit of the nation (read: weaving stories around the faces around me while riding the jeep home).

More jeepney photos here.

In Blogging and the Web, Cambodia life, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

Thursday Postcard Hunt: A Slice of Filipino Life on Canvas

Author sreisaatPosted on 9 Comments

This week’s postcard, a gift from the lovely Arlene over at I Love Postcrossing, is a true treasure. It features a stunning oil painting by the renowned Filipino National Artist (the first ever!), Fernando Amorsolo. The postcard, showing one of his masterpieces, is a nostalgic window into a bygone era of the Philippine countryside.

Postcard shows one of Fernando Amorsolo’s oil paintings. His works depict his love for the Philippine rural landscape and farmers/labourers.

Imagine a bustling rice harvest scene, painted with lifelike detail and bathed in warm sunlight. Women work side-by-side, tirelessly in the fields, their laughter mingling with the gentle breeze. Amidst the hardworking farmers, there’s a tender moment with one woman pausing her labour to nurse her baby. This simple act captured beautifully, speaks volumes about the heart of Filipino life. This was a time when communities came together to celebrate the fruits of their labor with feasts, music, and dance.

It’s fascinating to learn that Amorsolo’s journey to becoming a master began humbly. His mother’s embroidery helped support him, and young Fernando even sold his own watercolour postcards!

Amorsolo’s genius lies in his ability to capture the essence of Filipino. life. He was a master of light and shadow (chiaroscuro), using his signature backlighting technique to create scenes that feel almost ethereal. His works are a beautiful blend of realism and impressionism, drawing you into the heart of the painting. It’s no wonder he is nicknamed the Grand Old Man of the Philippine Art, a true National Treasure!

A big thank you to Arlene for sharing this piece of Filipino heritage with me. It’s a reminder of simpler times and the enduring beauty of our country.