Another happy snap

Above photo shows Egay, Butch, Mario, JazMong and Netoy. Notice JazMong so happy to see Mario...

Look-alike?

I am just kidding.... Jaz and Sydney. But definitely Jazmong is so happy to see Sydney; who dropped by on the way to work to see all of us. Thanks Jaz and Sydney for taking the time to have fellowship with us! See you soon in 2010!

Notice anything?

Who's copying whom? Leo arrived late after finishing his Scottish Rite conferrals (Congrats Bro Leo!); shown here with Netoy. Also notice both are wearing grey shirts.... just coincidence?

The brods

Photo shows, from left, Netoy, Butch, Egay, Emong, Sydney, Mario, Allan and Tino. We also called Bino and spoke to him at length.

Jojo and Aureo sents their apologies.

JoDem 2008 San Diego Get-together

Get-together organised by Netoy at Annie's residence.

Photo above shows, from left fellow College Y friends, Daisy, Magda and Emong, Irene, Netoy, Sydney, Mario, Annie, Allan and Butch.

Mom Mrs Anita J Telmo: May 7, 1917 to Nov 12, 2008

My heart is heavy to inform you that my mother, Anita J Telmo was laid to rest last Wednesday, November 19, 2008 and I am dealing with our loss one day at a time.

It was a sudden way of leaving us since she was still very alert and did all her usual activities that day. She was big a part of our family for so long (91 years and 6 months).

I was so blessed with my aunts, uncles, relatives, and friends who were here. Everything just fell into place specially when I was planning the funeral memorial service. My Pastor uncle did the committal ceremony at the grave site and he sang a lot of our gospel songs during the 3 services. We also sang a lot of familiar favorite hymns and read Bible verses.

I am truly grateful for everyone specially my sister, Arlene Telmo; who did all the flowers and my brother, Jesse Telmo; who did not want my mother to be cremated.

This is a life changing experience. Life is too short even after 91 years and 6 months.

Ecclesiastes 3

1 To everything there is a season, and a time for every matter or purpose under heaven:
2A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to pluck up what is planted,
3A time to kill and a time to heal, a time to break down and a time to build up,
4A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5A time to cast away stones and a time to gather stones together, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6A time to get and a time to lose, a time to keep and a time to cast away,
7A time to rend and a time to sew, a time to keep silence and a time to speak,
8A time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
9What profit remains for the worker from his toil?
10I have seen the painful labor and exertion and miserable business which God has given to the sons of men with which to exercise and busy themselves.
11He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men's hearts and minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.
12I know that there is nothing better for them than to be glad and to get and do good as long as they live;
13And also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor--it is the gift of God.
14I know that whatever God does, it endures forever; nothing can be added to it nor anything taken from it. And God does it so that men will [reverently] fear Him [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is].
15That which is now already has been, and that which is to be already has been; and God seeks that which has passed by [so that history repeats itself ].......

Peace,

Carol Ann Telmo-Malinis
San Leandro, Ca 94579

Our deepest condolences and prayers to Sis Carol and the Telmo family on the passing away of Mom Anita J Telmo.

DeMolay sons, Jobie daughters and Lincoln Lodge Masonic Family

9th Biennial Session DeMolay Philippines: 8 Nov 2008

Brethren and all,

The Grand Master of the Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay, Hon. Sonny Leviste, is inviting master masons to be members of the Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay of the Republic of the Philippines.

As an Active Member, you will be invested with a collar jewel, the symbol of recognition that you are part of a group of master masons who believe in the furtherance of principles and ideals of the Order of DeMolay.You will be eligible to attend to Supreme Council Sessions, serve on committees, propose measures, be heard in debate and vote in committee and general sessions.

It places you among those whose input has great influence on the projects, programs and policies that guide the Order into the future. Interested master masons who wish to be part of this noble endeavour are invited to attend the 9th Biennial Session on November 8, 2008 at 10:00 in the morning at the Philippine DeMolay Youth Center, San Marcelino, Malate Manila for the collaring and investiture.

Collar jewel, investiture fee and annual dues is Php 1,500.00.

Fraternally,

VW Jojo P. Javier
Grand Senior Councilor
Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay

http://demolayphilippines.org

Reactivation of Grand Guardian Council IOJD Philippines

Rizal Day with Bethel No 1, Olongapo City, IOJD Honored Queen Cynthia Gregorio with Jean Mackay and Aleta Ela. (Photo courtesy of Bro DAZB, Flickr)

"I am pleased to announce the reactivation of the Grand Guardian Council of the International Order of Job's Daughters (IOJD) of the Philippines.

Dignitaries from the International Supreme Council led by Sis. Marilyn Olson (Supreme Guardian), Bro Bob Clore (Associate Supreme Guardian), and Sis. Lousie Windbiel, PSG (Deputy for the Philippines) were on hand for their official Philippine visitation from October 1-5 and presided over the simple but very solemn ceremony held at the Jose Abad Santos Hall, Plaridel Masonic Temple on Friday morning, October 3, 2008.

Installed as Philippine Grand Guardian – Sis. Nina Aragon, PGG; together with Associate Grand Guardian - WB Dennis Villasenor; Vice Grand Guardian and Grand Secretary – Sis. Jean Austria, PHQ; acting Associate Vice Grand Guardian – WB Roger Zulueta.

The annual Grand Session of the Order of Job's Daughters International (Philippines) is slated in early May 2009 at Olongapo City.

Thank you and please join me in congratulating them!"

Sincerely,

Bro. Tony Limpoco

Batong Buhay Lodge No. 27

District NCR-GMakati City

For more information regarding the IOJD, please click here.

Dave Allan Z Bravo's Installation

Bro Dave Allan Z Bravo (DAZB) emailed me to share his Flickr site with 14 old photos, mostly of his installation as Master Councilor.

Photo shows above from left front (as best as I could remember, thanks DAZB for the reminder!): Dad Delio S. Reyes, Chairman of Advisory Council; Bro Cunanan, Bro Pena, Bro Stephen Mercado, Bro Dave Leonor (a batchmate in DeMolay, Nov '72), Bro Ben Bautista, Bro Ver Pena, Bro Jesse Mackay Jr. and Bro Josefino Jose.

Back row (from left to right): Bro Jesse Arquero, Bro Sonny Garcia, Bro Conrad B Velasco, Bro Gerry Caranto, Bro Allan Ramos, Bro Nestor R Domingo, Bro Jennise Arquero, and Bro Gerry Domingo.

Third back row: Bro Jojo Abad and Bro Ric Tallorin.

And front row seated is Bro MC Dave Allan Z Bravo and Chapter Sweetheart, Sis Mary May Abad.

If you can identify some of the brethren, or if I made a mistake, please leave a comment on the comment page.

Thanks Bro DAZB for the corrections and help with previously unidentified and mis-identified brothers!

Bro Mey Azucenas

You guessed it; I'm trawling thru my pictures received from various friends and relatives.

This particular one is also almost a year old. Emailed by Senior DeMolay, bro Elmer "Mey" Azucenas with wife, sis Bey; taken in Canada,where they are residing now.

Most brods become close friends and kumpadre. This is the case with bro Mey and me. He is the godfather to my daughter, Rea. I use to hang out with him and bro Menn Felarca way back. We also worked together at SRF Shop 67, where our dads are both working as well.

If you want me to feature you here, just shoot me an email preferably with your latest picture. An old DeMolay photo to share is also highly desirable. Obviously we want to see your latest photo, with or without your family; and the latest news about you. I am sure our brods and sis love to hear from you.

Almost a year ago...

... our bro Netoy sent us pictures of his Xmas 2007 in Gapo. This particular photo show (from left) his blood brother and DeMolay brod Gerry Domingo; and brods Jojo Adamos, Bado Jordan and Butch Gregorio.

I spoke to Bro Netoy over the phone just the other week; when Sis Annie was here in Oz to visit her brother, another Senior DeMolay, Bro Ireneo "Mario" Francisco. Bro Netoy said that he will be back this year to fetch Bro Gerry and family to the US. At long last!

Also note bro Butch sporting a Kapatiran 2007 shirt, which reminds me the Grand Kapatiran 2010 reunion in Gapo being planned by the brods and sis in California. This is tentatively slated for summer 2010. Hope this materializes...

Bro Anthony Deleon, TRY PMC

Dear Brod,

I know there is always a list of the roster of PMC's given out as part of the installation programs for every term. Of course, the list grows longer every term end. Maybe you can ask Bhoy Nabor to send you a copy.

I just bumped into this site and I am very pleased. Coming from a long lineage of DeMolays, I feel nostalgic seeing old pics and trivia. Keep up the good work and hope you can build up on the interest.

Fraternally yours,

Anthony Deleon PMC
TRY Chapter
Past National Vice President
Demolay Alumni Association of the Philippines

www.antonisat.blogspot.com

Posted June 9, 2008 1:10 AM UAE

Just read the above comments from Bro Anthony "Anton" Deleon, who is now working as a Senior Communications Executive in Dubai, UAE. He describes himself as a "former journalist and government employee."

I must apologise for just reading his comments. This blog was really designed for our active DeMolays and I was hoping that one of our younger DeMolays would take the reign of running this BloGazine. Fill it with the activities of the chapter and somehow update us Senior DeMolays of what is happening back in Gapo. Hence I was not checking some of the comments and hardly checking the emails. So I hope all would forgive me for the delay in responding.

I had a look at Bro Anton's blog and lifted one of his pictures. Picture shown above is with son and "future DeMolay", Chino. Picture taken by wife, Bel and post was entitled "The pursuit of happyness... Pinoy posterboys." There is also another post, "Afterglow" remembering his Papa, Bro William E. Deleon. A poignant letter of a son to his dad.

Visit his blog: Slap Happy and his other various blogs (view his complete profile for more info); that way we can be acquainted with this TRY PMC.

Thank you Bro Anton for the comments and the encouragement; like you I am also passionate about DeMolay, especially TRY. Please keep in touch.

Your brother,

Mario Baylon Jr

Dra Annie and Dianne in Sydney: Aug-Sept 2008

Bro Ireneo's kids, Kallen (Bro Mario's grandson) and Dianne, Sis Annie's daughter.

Senior DeMolays: from left, Bro Rolland Ago, Bro Ireneo Francisco, Bro Mario Baylon Jr and Bro Relly Pasco.

With Sis Annie Francsico-Sumbad, at Bro Relly's place.

Macaraeg Brothers Initiated One of Their Own

Photo shows the Macaraeg brothers Jose Sr, PM of Silverdale Lodge # 311 in Washington State; Ben, PM of Gateway Lodge # 339, Brea, CA; Daniel of Black Mountain Lodge # 854, San Diego, CA; Macario Jr of Cornerstone Lodge #659, Alhambra, CA; Aureo, PM of Peoria Lodge # 31, Peoria, Arizona; and new EA Bro Jose Sia Macaraeg Jr.

"On April 8, 2008, the Macaraeg brothers initiated one of their own into Masonry. Five brothers helped prepare and later welcome nephew and son Jose Sia Macaraeg Jr.

Participating in the very special event, Brother Dad sat in the East while Brother Uncles Ben and Oring sat in the West and South, respectively. Brother Uncle Tik was the Senior Deacon and Brother Uncle Mack Jr. occupied the Senior Steward position.

The five brothers came from five different Lodges and three Grand Lodge Jurisdictions of Arizona, California, and Washington. All the Macaraeg brothers are Senior DeMolays from Teodoro R.Yangco Chapter, with the exception of Jose Sr. who was raised in Lincoln Lodge No 34 in 1963."

Via email by Bro JD Macaraeg

Also see similar post by Bro Ollie Olano on his blog,... least Letters, Figures or Characters.

For another Macaraeg story, see Bro R M Olano's post regarding their group visitation, click here.

TRY Senior DeMolay Capt Sadsad US NAS Commander

Stock photo courtesy of NAS Whiting Field.

Former Olongapo City resident and TRY Senior DeMolay, Capt Enrique "Ric" Sadsad assumed the post of "Commanding Officer of NAS Whiting Field in a Change of Command Ceremony on Friday, August 17" a couple of years ago according to EscaRosa press.

Like most promising and talented young men from Olongapo, Bro Ric joined the US Navy in November 1977 after graduating from Olongapo City National High School (OCNHS) in 1973.

"He was already working as a helicopter technician at the Philippine Aerospace Development Corp. in Pasay City when he passed the entrance tests and joined the US Navy at age 21"; according to a blog post in the Subic Bay News by Rodney J. Jaleco - ABS-CBN North America News Bureau .

According to the same ABS-CBN news report, "I attribute a lot of where I am now to a desire to get advanced education, and I guess, just to do your job and do it well," he declares. We asked if he had a formula for success. "A lot of perseverance," he replied, "and a lot of luck"."

Another TRY Senior DeMolay following his footsteps in the US Navy is Bro Constantino Constantino, who now resides in San Diego and is based there.

Our congratulations to Bro Capt Ric Sadsad on this milestone in his US Navy career.

(To read the full articles, please click link of EscaRosa and blog post in the Subic Bay News above.)

In a follow up comment, Bro Ric said that he joined Pace Lodge No 349 of Milton, Florida just last summer [2008]. Congratulations to Bro Ric for taking the time out of his busy schedule to join Freemasonry, I am sure he will be a tremendous asset to the craft.

Bro Sherman Dantes, PMC, T. R. Yangco Chapter Passed Away 28th June 2008

Another sad news from the Philippines:

Sis Dahlia Arquero, emailed last Monday, June 30, 2008 ; that the son of Bro Boker Dantes; Bro Sherman Dantes passed away last June 28th in the Philippines.

Bro Sherman Dantes is a Past Master Councilor of Teodoro R. Yangco Chapter, Order of DeMolay.

Anyone who has more details about our brother Sherman Dantes, please email toneeramos@cox.net so that we can post it in our website.

Our deepest condolences and prayers to Bro Boker Dantes and family on the passing away of Bro Sherman Dantes.

Bro and Dad Manuel "Ba" Gregorio Drops Working Tools

In an email by Bro Netoy Domingo, he informs us that Bro Senior DeMolay and Dad Mason Manuel "Ba" Gregorio recently passed away.

Dad Manuel Gregorio is also the father of our Senior DeMolay, Bro Butch Gregorio.

While we don't have too much details, we request that you pray for and offer your condolences to Mom Gregorio and the whole Gregorio clan for the passing away of Dad Gregorio.

Email received from Mr Jose Farrales of SRF_Tiger:

"Manuel Macaraeg Gregorio (71) formerly with Shop 51 passed away on 30 June 2008 in Olongapo City. He was survived by his wife Nenita Angeles Gregorio, children Maximo (Butch) & Tessie, Marcelina (Marcy) & Eduardo Pitquen, and Manuel (Jun) Gregorio Jr., his grandchildren & greatgrandchildren. His body now lies in Lincoln Lodge #34 and funeral on Saturday, 5 July 2008."

Also continue to pray for the recovery of Bro Dave Allan Bravo's daughter, Maxine. According to Sis Joy (nee Bravo), sister of Bro Dave Allan, auntie to Maxine and Sis Joby: Maxine is back home and on the way to recovery. Really good news!

Rare and old photo

Bro Jojo Foo sent another photo. He said this one was rare because he is in it. Most of the time he take the pictures, thus he is rarely not in the photo. This was taken at the old Olongapo Boy Scout Headquarters at the back of FilAm (now the Olongapo Convention Center).

Shown, from left to right: are Bro Alex Manlutac (a DeMolay from Bataan), Jojo, PHQ Sis Brenda and Netoy.

I guess old kasi nanduon si Netoy, just kidding bro!

Jojo said:

"A picture which was rare due to the fact that I took pictures most of the time and I'm not in it. This was taken at HQ at the back of FilAm where we spent aaaaaaalot of our times (Scouting Days to DeMolay)."

Back in Time: Late 1970's

Picture above taken more than 20 years ago, showing the very close relationship among TRY DeMolays and Bethel No 1 Jobies. I can barely remember still this occassion.

The picture was shared by Bro Jojo Foo, now based in Los Angeles.

Not too sure about the exact time and occassion but looks like one of many parades that the DeMolays and Jobies go to. The jeepney owner looks like the one own by Bro Ben "Tsupao" Bautista.

While the mini car at the back belongs to Bro Jojo Foo. From memory I think it was of those minica red car that can fit seven or more DeMolays without a problem. Same goes for the "owner" of Bro Bautista.

It looks like sitting in front of the owner is Sis Annabel Adamos and Sis Annabelle Cuenco.

Looking on, at the background, close to the lodge's entrance are: (from left to right) Bro Vic Mercurio, Bro Leo "Daggy" Martinez, Bro Ruben "Pagong" Bautista, looking over the "owner" in singlet is I think Bro Gerry Domingo (the driver looks like Bro Ben Bautista) and Bro Pechie Fontillas.

At the back, among the brods sitting on the car, I can only identify Bro Sia (leaning on the car in dark shirt) and the one sitting on the hood with glasses is Bro Ruel Blanco. From left, I think that is Bro Mabini Francisco and partly hidden is Bro Sydney Albano.

If you can identify more, please leave a comment.

DeMolay Father Talk

One of several wallpapers for download at the Serafin V. Aguilar Chapter website.

"The Order of DeMolay teaches many beautiful lessons, but none more important than honor and true respect for parents. It is fitting, therefore, that before you leave this room, you should be called upon once again to stand before this altar in a few moments of special emphasis upon the virtue which has been given first place among the jewels adorning the crown of youth Filial Love.

Our Order teaches many beautiful lessons honoring womanhood and we realize our important duty to our mothers, but we, as young men, also need to recognize that other bond of Filial Love which shapes our growing years - the bond of a son with his father. Tonight, my brothers, we dedicate this evening to our fathers - men who desire and endeavor to guide and mold their sons for the responsibilities of manhood which await them.

A philosopher once said that "a son is the best assurance of immortality." It has also been inculcated that a father wants to leave the best part of himself to the world – his son. To be able to take your son by the hand when he is little; to lead him out into the spring; to show him the glories of God, the wonders of nature; to hear his confidences when he is older; to guide the way he will go; to be able to point with pride and say, "See this boy? This boy is my son!" This is passing on a part of oneself - a claim on immortality.

Growing up in a confused world, we often find it difficult to really communicate with our fathers. He doesn't seem to understand us, our society, our speech, our fads, our needs and our desires. We think him and his society wrong, and unable to help us with our problems. But, how foolish we are not to recognize the help our father is. It is this man, our dad, who is seeking to help us face our problems. Such was the very case in the founding of our Order, when Dad Frank Land saw a young boy groping for the guiding hand of a father. What our Order teaches, our fathers teach us also.

It was your father who helped you form your own spiritual beliefs and the courage to live them everyday.

As you grew older, he taught you the importance of being a gentleman. That to be a real man, you must show courtesy toward the stranger as well as toward a friend.

It was also your father who was never happier than when he was your pal. It was he who told you that to be a friend means to be tried and true, and that no man, young or old, can enjoy a higher honor than to be valued as a friend and trusted as a brother.

He too pointed the way, saying the best man is he whose word is as good as his bond, and through his actions, you have seen that it is the man who can be absolutely relied upon to fulfill his promise, who enjoys the esteem and confidence of his fellow man.

By his example you have also seen that there is more to cleanness than a clean body; that the mark of a true man is cleanness in thought, word and deed. He too has sought to prepare you to accept and carry out the responsibilities of the citizenship that awaits you. May you too know the meaning of loyalty as your father has endeavored to teach you - to be faithful under all circumstances. My Brothers, you received the crown of youth in the East - the station symbolic of the start of the day, or the start of a human life. Your journey as a wearer of that crown is one that your father has already taken. As your father, he is trying to leave the best part of himself to you, his son the most valuable gift - the knowledge of the lessons he received as a wearer of that same crown of youth. Soon your journey will come to an end and your filial bonds will lessen. Some day, you too, will be a father and then, to your mind will come the words that have served as a guide for your father:

"If we work upon marble, it will perish.
If we work upon brass, time will efface it.
If we rear temples, they will crumble to dust;
But if we work upon immortal souls,
If we imbue them with principles
With a just fear of the Creator and love of his fellow man,
We engrave upon those tablets something which will brighten all eternity."

We have no tokens for you to take home as a symbol of your father's love. As you stand before this altar you should recall the vows you took in becoming a member of our Order. The best token you can possibly give your father to show your love and appreciation is to strive always to live worthily of the vows you have assumed - promises to put into practice that which your father has endeavored to teach you.

When you go home tonight, take a moment, go to your father and show him your appreciation for all his love and care. Take his hand firmly in yours and say: "Thanks, dad, for all the help you have given me. Help me further to be a better man. Light my way as best you can. May I, with your help, and the lessons of DeMolay, Grow up to be worthy of your name.

DeMolay can ask no more of you than that you should endeavor so to live, as to be worthy of your father's name."

Moderator's Note: Since becoming a DeMolay in 1972, and consequently a Senior DeMolay and a Mason, I have never heard or come across the "Father Talk". Obviously it was designed to complement the Flower Talk, which mainly addresses the love and care of our mothers. I found this in the DeMolay Bacolod and website of Serafin V. Aguilar Chapter, Order of DeMolay, Under the Supreme Council of the Order of DeMolay of the Republic of the Philippines, Bacolod City.

Kapatiran Summer Fundraising Event: 19 July

Above picture taken last JoDem Kapatiran Reunion, 2007 in San Diego, California. Photo courtesy of Bro Jojo Foo.

It was announced recently at the Kapatiran website the upcoming Kapatiran Summer Fundraising Event, combined meeting and swimming party on Saturday, July 19, 2008 between 12:00 PM till 10:00 PM at Bro Henry and Sis Aleta (Ela) McFarland's residence at Riverside, California.

According to the announcement, "All members, relatives, friends, families, classmates are welcome... in a fun-filled day of camraderie and activities including: swimming, childrens’ games and talent contest, poker and mahjong tournaments, karaoke and dancing (with instructions)."

Also there is an "all-you-can-eat hamburgers and hotdogs. You can also bring your own veggie burgers and other food as you wish."

For more information visit the JoDem Kapatiran website by clicking here. Or by contacting or RSVP to Jun & Denden Arquero at the following email addresses: dahliaarquero@yahoo.com or junarquero@yahoo.com.

The Olongapo City JoDem Kapatiran is an organization of mostly Teodoro R Yangco Chapter Senior DeMolays and Senior members of Bethel No 1, International Order of Job's Daughters. However, according to their website all friends and supporters are also welcome to join.

Present Chairman is Bro Tonee Ramos, while the Secretary is Sis Carol Lee-Furiate. For a complete list of officers, click here.

DeMolay Ritual Translated in Filipino

Photo shows JoDeM get-together in San Diego 18 Oct 2005, left to right: Seated front Sis Brenda Rivera-Pena and Sis Ana Kim Abad-Dimalanta. Back row: Bros Nestor Domingo, Sydney Albano, Goya Gloria, Butch Escota, Egay Lorenzana, Joel Delos Santos, Dave Allan Bravo, Ver Pena, Leo Martinez and Tino Constantino.

As I was researching Philippine DeMolay history on the internet, I managed to come across the following answer to a question in the DeMolay International forum website.

It is by our own Bro Dave Allan Z Bravo, better known for his use of his initials: DAZB, sounds and much like a name for a radio station. He is one of our very popular and active PMCs, a Chevalier and a Representative DeMolay.

This reminded me of the time when TRY translated the then International Order of DeMolay English ritual in the vernacular, specifically in Pilipino (now it's spelt: Filipino to denote both the people and the language).

Here is Bro DAZB spiel re the translated ritual:

"For your information the Teodoro R. Yangco Chapter, Olongapo City, Philippines translated the whole ritual in Filipino language and was presented during the conclave in the city. There are three remaining original copies including one of which is in my possession. Looking forward to turn over it to the Supreme Council of the Philippines, for future printing and use. The reason for translating the ritual in our language is to promote our sense of nationalism and love for our the motherland, the Philippines. The translation of the ritual took a year by dedicated officers and members of T.R.Y. Chapter. Mabuhay ang ritual Pilipino."

Because it was in my time (in the 1970's) as a DeMolay, I remember participating in one of the first exemplification of the Filipino Ritual, together with Bro DAZB, and Brothers Nestor R Domingo, Conrado B Velasco and others whose faces I can clearly remember but whose names escapes me at the moment.

This achievement highlights another "feather in our cap" in Philippine DeMolay history. Unfortunately I am still in need of our Chapter history. Also I am dissapointed that even the history of Philippine DeMolay is not updated in the Philippine Supreme Council website. The history of both our chapter and Philippine DeMolay movement would definitely add the much needed Filipino identity and pride, especially for our younger Filipino DeMolays.

I will persevere and hoping that one of our readers will help me in this regard.

12th DANCON at Butuan City: 28 May - 1 June 2008

Congress Theme - "DAAP moving forward for a better DeMolay"

Artwork courtesy of and from DAAP website.

The DeMolay Alumni Association of the Philippines (DAAP) announced recently the 12th DeMolay Alumni DeMolay Congress (12th DANCON) will be held at the Balanghai Convention Center, Butuan City this coming May 28 to June 1, 2008.

Hosting the event is the DAAP of North-Western Mindanao Jurisdiction, with Agusan Valley DeMolay Alumni Chapter # 2 as lead DAAP Chapter in cooperation with Agusan Valley Chapter, Order of DeMolay, Agusan Valley Assembly # 20, Order of the Rainbow for Girls, Orient of Surigao and The Agusan Bodies, A&ASR and Agusan Valley Lodge # 160 F&AM.

The annual congress is held for the purpose of developing comradeship among members of various alumni and as well as active DeMolay Chapters in the Philippines. "As well as improve relationship among the sisters (Rainbows and Job's Daughters) and most especially between the DeMolays and Dad Masons", according to an article in the DeMolay Philippines website.

The congress expects not only DAAP Chapter members, but as well as Senior DeMolays (not DAAP members), but also active members of the Order, sisters from the Rainbows and Job's Daughters and Dad Masons representing various chapters and Lodges all over the Philippines.

The Teodoro R Yangco has an alumni DAAP chapter No 24.

For further information, see Congress schedule at The DeMolay Philippines website or click here.

DeMolay Philippines National Congress

The National Congress for DeMolay Philippines is tentatively scheduled for April 11-13, 2008 at Silang, Cavite.

The Master Councilor of T R Yangco Chapter, Bro Efraim M. Hernandez (+639294378375), thru our Senior DeMolay, Bro Bhoy Nabor, requests "any help" that we can extend to our younger brothers.

Treasurer, Bro Lorenzo De Leon (+639183263943), will accept monetary donations for the members of the chapter to attend this annual Philippine DeMolay National Congress.

(Via letter by Bro Bhoy Nabor, 22 March 2008)

Chapter Logo/artwork courtesy of Bro Rick B Sia's DeMolay Gapo Net at

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/demolaygaponet/

JoDem Kapatiran Grand Reunion: Summer 2010

"Next Kapatiran Grand Reunion Planned for Summer 2010.

Stay tuned to this website (http://www.try-bethel1.org/ ) for future announcemnts!

Anyone interested in joining the Organizing Committee please go to "contact us" (or click here) and email the webmaster (webmaster@try-bethel1.org) (just be patient for the response)."

At this early stage it is not known whether this Kapatiran Grand Reunion slated for summer 2010 will be in Olongapo City or in the U.S. Any details we will update you via this BloGazine, via the Kapatiran website or via the various email groups (one such is the Jodem_OC@yahoogroups.com.au , email us if you want to subscribe).

Order of DeMolay: 89th Year - March 1919 to March 2008

"It has been said that a day can be changed or a great moment launched by a single phone call." That is how the history of the Order of DeMolay was started in 1919. A solitary phone call for help, according to the history of the order: "Nine Boys and A Man". And for that call for help, ably answered by Bro Frank S. Land, the founder of the Order.

On March 24, the Order celebrates its 89th year of founding. Much of the celebartion will be during the Celebration of DeMolay Week, a week closest to March 24.

To millions of DeMolays and senior DeMolays, it is a time of rejoicing for an organisation that began with nine boys, guided by a man and an ideal. For Frank Marshall, the author of the DeMolay ritual, Jacques DeMolay is "an exemplar of loyalty to conscience". For Masons who knows the history of Jacques DeMolay, he is an exemplar of toleration.

For an organisation for young men to reach this milestone, it must be doing good work for the greater good of those members and former members. Countless DeMolays are a testament to this, most of whom continued the journey to Masonry: To becoming better men.

The training and experience they have gained in chapter activities have moulded them to be better young men, men and leaders in their own fields of endeavour. There is no better testament than this: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16 KJV)

T R Yangco Chapter History: 45 Years of Brotherhood

Photo shows Nov 14, 1964 T R Yangco Installation of Officers (Photo courtesy of Bro Daniel Macaraeg)

The Teodoro R Yangco Chapter was formally instituted in April 25, 1962 at the Lincoln Lodge Masonic Temple, City of Olongapo under the auspices of the International Supreme Council Order of DeMolay at Kansas City, Missouri.

It is one of the longest continous DeMolay Chapters in the history of Philippine DeMolay, save from Jose Abad Santos and Loyalty Chapters in Manila and the Emmanuel Baja Chapter in Cavite City; all of which are now under the Philippine Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay.

Today the chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month at the Lincoln Lodge Masonic Temple, Rizal Avenue (near the City Hall), Olongapo City.

Sponsoring bodies are the fine men of Lincoln Lodge #34 and the Western Luzon Bodies, Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite; whose members also serve as members of the Adviosry Council. The members of the Rebecca Parrish Chapter No 5 of the Order of the Eastern Star also supports the Chapter, as well as supporting Bethel No 1, International Order of Job's Daughters.

The first recorded Master Councilor is Bro Conrad Tiu, now a successful businessman in Olongapo City.

US Asiatic Fleet Chapter: First Known Philippine DeMolay Chapter

The U.S. Asiatic Fleet Chapter, sponsored by Service Lodge No. 95 F. & A. M. and meets at the Plaridel Masonic Temple in the early 1930's; is the first known "Philippine" DeMolay Chapter. But unfortunately its composition would have been exclusively Americans most likely initiated in the US mainland.

During that period, it was not unusual for U.S. servicemen to be detailed locally to serve for a specified time in any U.S. installations (i.e., Sangley Point in Cavite City and Subic Bay US Naval Shipyard in Olongapo City, and recently at the Clark Air Force Base in Angeles City) in the country. These servicemen may have come via cruisers and battleships, hence the chapter name "US Asiatic Fleet". The U.S. Asiatic Fleet Chapter may have been one of those roving chapters.

In witnessing the exemplification of the Degrees by the U.S. Asiatic Fleet Chapter, the Masons in attendance were impressed by the potential and the tenets of this new youth movement. Many expressed hope establishing a local chapter.

In 1946 MW Michael Goldenberg developed an abiding interest in DeMolay and it was under his leadership that the Order began to flourish. On March 23, 1946, the first local chapter was instituted in Manila. This Chapter was named after Jose Abad Santos, a Past Grand Master of Mason and Chief Justice of the Philippine Supreme Court. Sponsoring the chapter was the Philippine Bodies of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rites of Freemasonry.

MW Goldenberg reports on the 31st Annual Communication of Mason in the Philippines that following this institution was the establishment of the following chapters: M.H. del Pilar Chapter of Malolos (reactivated 1984); Emmanuel Baja Chapter of Cavite (1948, active); Batangas Chapter, also instituted were the Loyalty Chapter of Manila (1949, active); Far East Chapter of Clark Air Base of Pampanga (reactivated, 1983).

Also in the islands of Luzon, the Teodoro R. Yangco Chapter in Olongapo City was officially instituted in April 25, 1962 (still active), sponsored by Lincoln Lodge No 34 and the Western luzon Bodies, A & ASR.

In the Visayas, the first Chapter to be instituted was Catalino G. Aurelio Chapter of Bacolod City, Lapu-Lapu Chapter of Cebu City (1957), formerly Leon Kilat [now Dumaguete City (Rajah Dulamat)] Chapter of Dumaguete City (1963, active) and Graciano Lopez Jaena Chapter of Iloilo City (1965, active).

For a somewhat complete list (not updated) of DeMolay Chapters under the Philippine Supreme Council Order of DeMolay, click here. A more updated version can be found here, under the DeMolay Philippines website.

Chapter History: Have you got a copy?

Dear Brethren and Friends,

I am still looking for a copy of our Chapter's history and have emailed all my T. R. Yangco contemporaries to no avail.

If you happen to have a copy, even an old version, please email me at this site. I would appreciate it very much.

Also a list of our Past Master Councillors, which I know we have in the Lincoln Lodge Masonic Temple. Next time I come home I will take a copy.

At the moment, I don't have any news from our active brethren in Olongapo so I will be publishing some Senior DeMolays and Sister Job's Daughters from Bethel No 1 news.

We have several JoDem and Kapatiran websites and Yahoo Groups. Please feel free to join us and we would love to meet and know you!

Fraternally,

Bro Mario Baylon Jr, PMC 1975, Chev
Past Jurisdictional Master Councillor, Jurisdiction of Luzon
Moderator