CHAPTER 3 - UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

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You may want to read Chapter 2 first.

“ Mr. Benedict Lomiwan is hereby voted as president of the class,” the instructor announced.

It was barely his third week in the University, but everyone in class already knew who he was. It would be impossible not to! He always got the highest scores in their quizzes - even in algebra - which everyone considered “very difficult”.


It was in Algebra and English that he excelled - a deadly combination. Some students were good in Algebra but not in English, and vice versa. Only Benny, did good in both and that made him an “Exceptional” student.

He knew that by being in the Dean’s List of scholars, he would do justice to the sacrifices of his parents and Fr. Belucci.

He had enrolled in A.B Political Science as he had plans of becoming a lawyer someday. College exposed him to the various cultural minorities in the country and people were less discriminating because of ethnic origin.

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It was a cultural activity in the University and he was in his native costume - a g-string. During school days, he went to class in clothes everybody wore – warm and comfortable city clothes, and it was the first time he had to wear his native costume again. He had looked forward to it.

“Hey Benny, I’d cover myself if I were you,” someone from the crowd teased him, “half of the girls in class would be asking for a date next Monday.”

Benny just smiled and waved. He had always been proud of his heritage, even when other people had looked down upon him. He stood tall among his peers; his sinewy muscles, bulging in the right places. He had a handsome face – dark fringed eyes, sensuous lips and a slightly crooked nose that complimented his other features to perfection. He was almost naked, except for the g string around his waist and his private parts.

They started beating the gongs and Benny led his barrio mates in the “taddok” (native dance). His g-string undulated with his every movement and the crowd cheered excitedly as his group of dancers circled the plaza. It was a joyous and festive, cultural dance. When it was done, there were rivulets of sweat on Benny’s face.

“I think you need this,” a voice from behind him intoned.

He turned and stared at the most beautiful woman he had ever set eyes on. For the first time in his life, he became speechless.

“C’mon, use it,” the woman smiled reassuringly, proffering the handkerchief in her hand.

He reached out for it and wiped his face with one swift motion. His racing heartbeat slowed down a bit. “ Thanks, I’m Benny Lomiwan, Miss…” he extended a hand.

“ Call me Julie, Julia Santos,” she grasped his hand firmly.

The contact sent shivers through his spine. “Good God,” he thought to himself, “this is not me – going all weak over a woman.”

“ Your group was good,” she was saying. “I am sure, you will win the grand prize.”

“ We danced to share our culture not for anything else,” he replied with a smile.

She flashed white even teeth at him. “ Well, nice meeting you Benny, see you around,” she said, and she was gone.

Whew! what was that? He shook his head in amazement. He had never imagined himself going gaga over a woman. It was a strange feeling and he was totally taken by surprise by the new emotion. He would have wanted to know more about her. He released a long drawn sigh to calm his nerves. Well, he had to forget about her, he had more pressing priorities to think about.
************
February came. It was the coldest month of the year. He was growing accustomed to the gelid, city air. He had anticipated that it would be cold, but not these bone-freezing temperatures. If he hadn’t known better, he would have thought he was abroad and not in a tropical country. He had layers of clothing on; but still, the cold air permeated his skin and gnawed at his bones.

The University’s first semester went according to his plans. He was able to maintain his academic scholarship well into the second semester. Fr. Belucci took charge of his board and lodging in the University’s dorm for boys. He also deposited in the bank a monthly allowance for him. He knew he was lucky to have a benefactor in the person of the priest and had expressed it openly the last time the old priest hugged him goodbye.



“ Get a good education and look after your own people,” the generous and benevolent priest had said. “That would be enough payment for me.”

And that was what he wanted to do that Saturday night. He had been secretly contacted to a meeting as a Youth Representative regarding the building of a dam in the Chico river, which may pollute its clear, pristine waters . It was a clandestine meeting as powerful political forces were bent on pushing through with it. The dam- supposedly- will provide electricity for the neighboring towns.

“ Are you Benny?” his train of thought was broken.

He eyed warily a burly man accosting him.

“Yes, “ he replied.

“Come, they’re waiting,” he said and started to lead him to a parked car.

He was about to demand an ID from the man, but thought, “What the heck, if it’s time for me to go, I’ll go, no matter what I do.” and he quickly followed him.

(to be continued)

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CHAPTER 2 - UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

( If you still have not read chapter 1, do read it here.)

As soon as they arrived in Lubuagan, Guinnaban was baptized to Christianity by Fr. Belucci and named Benedict - after St. Benedict. To Guinnaban, the name symbolized hope and courage - and he liked the sound of it!

The abrupt change of environment though, had made him and his family uncomfortable. There were sad moments that they thought of going back to the simple life in the barrio. It was difficult for them to adjust to the ways of the progressively booming town. The good priest however, insisted that they stay on as he knew Benny was a brilliant boy who could pursue a much needed education for the sake of his people.

The following school year, Fr. Belucci enrolled him at the Parish secondary school.
On the very first day, Benny was already taunted by his classmates. “Hey, what’s your name?”

“Benedict” he would reply.

“Benedict? that's a fancy name, huh? Far from your ugly, Kalinga name.” then the group would roar with laughter.

“ Let’s see if you can live up to it, “ laughing, they would leave him speechless at the center of the school’s quadrangle.

They frequently picked on him and made fun of him. “Here’s the native,” they taunted and ridiculed him.

On the 5th day of school, Francis the most intelligent of the class, challenged him to a spelling contest. Benedict was reluctant to participate, as he was brought up by his parents believing that a truly brave man did not have to prove himself.

But the whole class jeered at him:" C'mon, you - from Taloctoc, let's see if you know something, " and they refused to allow him to leave the room.

Thinking that it would do no harm to anyone, he accepted the challenge and stayed. They unceremoniously pushed him beside Francis; he could see the beads of sweat mushrooming in Francis' excited face as he gleefully grinned at him.

Each of the students started yelling words for them to spell.

"pneumonia," one shouted.

"Use the chalk dumbo! Write " Francis snarled at him, "Let's see if your teeny weeny brain recognizes words."

" psychology"

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"gobbledygook"

"millennium"

"minuscule"

"sacrilegious"

There were two students assigned to both blackboards to check what they have written.

After each word, the uproar grew lesser and lesser as Benny had been able to spell the words correctly.

Unknown to them, since Benny's first day with Fr. Belucci, he was allowed to use the old priests' personal book collection. He devoured them like someone starving, and spent every free time savoring each page of the variety of books available for his perusal. He even started reading theology!

"And what is this all about?" a voice thundered from the doorway.

Everyone turned to meet Mrs. Garcia's unsmiling face. "What are you up to, now Francis?" her piercing stare made Francis wince.

"Err... we were just having a spelling contest," he was meek as a lamb in front of Mrs. Garcia.

The teacher took one long look at the board and said sternly, " the two of you, come to my office, right now." Her manner was succinct but there was a hint of pride in her tone.

Francis got most of the scolding as Mrs. Garcia was aware of his boisterous behavior at times.

"Let me finish what you started," her voice was gentler now and there was a twinkle in her eye.

"Spell liaison" , she motioned to Francis.

Francis stood at attention and proudly blurted out, " L - I - A - S - O - N" .

Mrs. Garcia - her face expressionless - nodded to Benny .

" L I A I S O N", Benny enunciated each word deliberately.

The teacher happily tapped the shoulder of Francis, " Now we have a new champion, Francis ," she strode towards Benny and intoned excitedly, " You are correct! I have high hopes we will win the championship this year. From now on, both of you should work together."

As days laboriously passed , it was evident that academically, Benny performed better than Francis - to the other one's obvious chagrin. In fact - he was the best in all categories - be it in Mathematics, English, Literature, or Music.

He had an eye and a heart for all extra-curricular and academic pursuits. He was the Grand Champion in the Math Quiz bee, the Spelling Bee and had won the Short Story Writing Contest sponsored by the English Society.

He then earned their respect and admiration. No one dared to taunt him anymore. Everyone wanted to be in his list of friends.

He graduated from St Theresa’s College as the Valedictorian of High School Class ‘ 76; with 6 medals: the gold, the leadership medal, the Insular Life gold, the Best in math, the Best in English, and was awarded "The Most Outstanding Graduate."

(TO BE CONTINUED)

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CHAPTER 1 - UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

By: Jena Isle

The mournful chant reverberated through the small four walls of the hut…” Aieeeee”.

Guinnaban - 9 at that time - was cowering in the eerie shadows. He was staring at the wrinkled woman wailing for the gaunt, pale corpse laid on the long table. The head of the corpse was at a grotesque angle, almost totally severed from his body.

“ Uma nangwa kansika anna?” ( Who have done this to you?) the woman wailed even louder.

“Aiieeeeee”….. everyone joined in and the hut became a cacophony of mournful cries.

The barrio captain motioned to the elders for a conference and they filed outside, their faces grim and murderous. Outside, a heated and frenzied debate took place.

Finally, the barrio captain raised his arm and shouted amidst the din, “ Intakkon no, umma uwayon yo, ittod tako kanida de kingwada.”( Then what are we waiting for? Let’s avenge his death.)

And so a full blown “tribal war” had began.


Guinnaban, grew amidst these bloody chaos caused by two warring tribes, who both fought for domination over the municipality. He accepted it as a way of life: the constant refuge in the deep forest even in the stillness of the night when the “enemy” had come to attack and the code of silence even when all he wanted was to protest at the top of his voice at the injustice of it all - these had become routine occurrences for him. And at age 10, he had stood as a sentinel on one of the night watches.

The “enemy” did not select their victims. Women and children were not spared by their avenging spears and bolos. Men had their heads always severed from their bodies, as a symbol of victory. The victor would bring home the grotesque, bloody head and would proudly display it like a trophy in their barrio. The warriors would dance gleefully around it till the wee hours of dawn. Head-hunting was normal and considered a warrior's noble deed.

It is for this reason that women and children did not dare venture outside their barrio’s perimeter unless escorted by warriors.

He was 12, when a Belgian, missionary priest , Fr. Carl Belucci, visited their far flung barrio. Everyone was wary of him. What did this white haired man with a long aquiline nose want with them? He was not the enemy surely but might he be a spy? No one wanted to welcome Fr. Belucci and his companions to their nipa huts.

Guinnaban could not explain what prompted him to approach the priest, “ You are not here to help us, are you?” he queried, his big round eyes - probing and curious.

“I am here not only to help, “ the priest said in his soft, mellow voice.

Guinnaban believed him. At his age, he had a keen perception of people. He can perceive just by looking at people's eyes, whether they were sincere or not; and he knew, the priest was his salvation.

From then on, Guinnaban served as the altar boy in each Holy Mass the priest celebrated. He began to listen to Fr. Belucci and learned that there is salvation for everyone, even for his enemies.

The elders however, were too far gone to forgive and forget whatever the sins of the past were, and continued with their thirst for vengeance. Some younger men, pleaded with the elders to forge a peace pact with the other tribe to end the senseless war.

They started proceedings but it seemed that their efforts were futile, there was still no vestige of reconciliation.

It was at this time that Fr. Belucci was called back to the parish church in town as it was becoming increasingly dangerous for him to stay on, in the barrio.

“Do you want to come with me?” Fr. Belucci asked Guinnaban, two days before his scheduled departure.

“You can continue serving as an altar boy and can go to school simultaneously.”

“But what about ina and ama?” Guinnaban wanted to go, but feared for the safety of his parents.

“They can come with you.” The old priest patted his head.

So on that gloomy, Monday morning, Guinnaban and his parents got what little was left of their belongings and joined Fr. Belucci in his 5 hr-trek to town.

(TO BE CONTINUED)


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BOOK 2 - CHAPTER 14: UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

Dusk was approaching and the evening lights were starting to appear like distant stars being uncovered slowly by hovering clouds. There was a slight drizzle - enough to dampen Benny's clothes.

He was wearing a light blue polo shirt and a tie which complemented well with his dark blue slacks. He was on his way to the University. He had thought, it wasn't going to rain so he did not bother to bring additional clothing.

The bright lights at the Professional School - which was the tallest building on that side of the street - came on.

On the right side of the imposing building, there was a sprinkling of various establishments- the Jollibee fast Food, the Glaxo Internet Cafe, the DJ drugstore and a series of small eateries where most students whiled their time away.

On the left side was the spacious parking lot for the University's diverse clientele.
Benny had enrolled in an evening class in Law School because he worked as a paralegal "gofer" during the day.

The money the native folks had contributed had been deposited at the Land Bank and Benny refused to touch a single centavo.

It was not his ego which came into play in this one, it was his sense of responsibility; he wanted that the hard earned money of the old folk would be able to earn them interest.

To return the money would be considered a slap to the faces of the elders. He knew the old folks were happy to know that they took active part in his education, and they did.

Their concern was heart warming that it had fed the burning desire in his heart to pursue his studies. He had to make it on his own finances or he could never claim he had succeeded. Julia stayed mum on the topic after she realized nothing could persuade him to use the money.

Benny momentarily paused in his tracks as he remembered Julia- Ah- Julia! His adorable wife was still able to arouse him so intensely. With a one year old child, he had thought the passion would fade. On the contrary, they were more ardent in making love now more than ever: exploring new erotic zones and experimenting on unique wonderful ways of expressing their ardent love for each other.

Andre was one of the most wonderful things that happened to their lives - The boy displayed initiative and courage even at his very young age. Once he toppled precariously because he was trying to pick a cat out of a bicycle's path.

Julia almost fainted when he saw the wheels of the bicycle almost on top of her son's face. The person had stopped in time to save both boy and cat. He was a precocious, adventurous tot that surprised even him and Julia.

Benny smiled inwardly as he remembered how Andre had inherited his looks but had Julia's round, dark brown eyes. He always looked forward to spending time with the two most precious persons in his life.

The evening shadows played on the contours of his face. He had noticeable lines now on his forehead and on the corners of his eyes. His wavy hair had grown longer and had curved inwardly towards his face. The fierce intensity in his eyes had now the knowing look of someone who had seen more than the ordinary at his age and time. His muscular and lean physique had not changed a bit in spite of the lessened physical activity- he no longer walked very long distances- but he jogs every morning before reporting to work.

Enrolling in the Juris Doctor Program had not been easy as there were several prerequisites he still had to finish, and finished he did. Now he had finally made it! It was the third day of classes and Benny found it to be taxing but challenging nevertheless.

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Research assignments were given everyday and he did not have ample time to do extensive research. He found Introduction to Law relatively easy with their happy-go-lucky Professor, Atty. Miranda.

In Criminal Law 1; however, they had an extremely strict disciplinarian - Atty. Lagum as their professor. He treated them like undergraduate students. Benny knew, Atty Lagum wanted to intimidate them, for what reason - he still could not fathom.

And Criminal Law 1 was his first subject that evening. The first assignment was on Evidence Gathering.

There was a string of questions to answer : "Who are the primary persons involved in the crime?" " What were their specific roles in the crime?" " Why did they act the way they did? etc, etc, " It seems like he was in a psychology class and not in a law course.

But the professor insisted that as future lawyers, they had to be familiar with the machinations of the complex human mind.

(TO BE CONTINUED)
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CHAPTER 13 - UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

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You may want to read CHAPTER 12, first.

As the night progressed, Benny was increasingly growing anxious. "You've got to get some sleep," Julia reminded him.

But he could not!

He got up every hour to scout the

camp's perimeter and talk to the men on guard.

He stood vigil with them in what seemed to be the longest night of his life.

In between this, he sat in the dark thinking of appropriate countermeasures that he could implement.

He had to act swiftly or everything would be lost forever.

He was endangering the lives of the people in his unit by staying longer in the camp.

The longer they stayed there, the more likelihood that they would be ordered "terminated" by their own rebel organization.

Surrender was not taken well by the higher-ups and Benny had now realized fully, that the real agenda of the top leaders were totally different from his own.

They wanted absolute and total control of the country. The military aid from foreign countries had started trickling in as evidenced by the new ammunitions arriving from foreign shores and this did not bode well with Benny.

Importing more guns and war ammunition denoted that the leaders had no plans of ending the "war".

He wanted it to end. He wanted to believe that "his" government was sincere in its peace offering . He would rather be under a struggling government run by his own people than a prosperous one run by foreigners. All he wanted was justice for the poor and peace and quiet for his countrymen.

They have to leave camp as soon as possible! Tomorrow it was imperative that he establish anew the lines of communication between him and the General.

He was startled when a shadow detached itself from the darkness. It was Julia.

" Let's get some sleep," she had one loving hand in his.

Her touch never failed to excite him. Just her mere presence added so much felecity and vibrancy to his life. That night; however, he did not want her to see how worried he was, that was why he made an excuse of doing the rounds.

" Yes, let's get some sleep. I have completed the rounds now," he said, and warmly draped an arm around her shoulders.

They slept in each other's arms dreaming of the peaceful, happy world their unborn child would soon have.

****
General Aman knew the danger that Benny was exposed to, so he camped not far from them and scouted the area for unusual activities.

For sure - that night - the media would be reporting the failed attempt of Ka Benny to surrender. He was now a marked man in the rebel organization.

The following day, General Aman was informed through the radio that there was a group of bandits who owned up the responsibility of disrupting the earlier attempt of Ka Benny's surrender.

Although, it was more practical to communicate directly with Ka Benny, General Aman still sought the assistance of Fr. Belucci. He knew Benny trusted the priest absolutely.

The undercover, personal emissary of Fr. Belucci scurried from Talococ to Benny's camp at least several times that day before a final arrangement was made.

The second surrender date was finally set the following morning.

There were no stones left unturned to ensure that the second attempt would proceed without snags.

There was a scouting party who double checked the area every hour and a soldier was stationed every 50 yards from each other to make sure that there were no third parties within the vicinity.

At exactly 9:47, both groups finally converged.

Once more Benny and General Aman started to walk to the center of the clearing. Everyone stood tensely and waited as the two men proceeded to meet. Cameras were whirling and there was a live feed on TV while the reporter made a commentary.

Ka Anton did not leave the responsibility to the army alone for making sure there were no instruders.

He and a small group of rebels were not watching the historical surrender; they were too busy scanning the nearby thick foliage for any sign of intruders.

There were none because outside the perimeter of the two groups, there was still another group of soldiers patrolling the area.

When General Aman and Kumander Benny finally shook hands, a loud cheer erupted from both camps.

"Kumander , welcome back," General Aman was sincere in his solicitations.

"Thanks, general," the handshake was warm and reassuring and Benny knew he could trust General Aman.

They spoke briefly but these were powerful sentences that marked a momentous event in the hearts of both rebels and soldiers.

Julia's cheeks were wet and she kept blinking the trickle of warm rivulets from her eyes.

It's just the forest wind, she thought and she walked on. She was a few steps away from Benny. Ka Dan was assigned to personally escort her.

Benny introduced her to the General when she came abreast them. It was evident the general liked Julia.

General Aman personally escorted them to the army camp and had never left their side until he was certain they were safe and sound.

It was a big , glorious victory for the government and they made sure this good news was aired in all Primtime TV programs and in the Late News. In the morning the event was in print in all newspapers around the country.

"Kumander Benny Surrenders! screamed all headlines in various native tongues.

After several days, when the government stayed true to their word, several small rebel units, followed suit after Benny's surrender.

Except for the one-week debriefing of Benny's unit in the army camp - they were set free afterwards, and were even given suitable livelihood projects to start their life anew.

The whole village of Taloctoc, was happy to have their most outstanding son back to their fold.

The families of the ex-rebels were the happiest of all, they held a celebration in honor of those who were finally in their midst.

Benny's parents cried with joy when they finally embraced their son and daughter in law. Julia's mother was a dotting grandmother soon-to-be, as she never left Julia's side.

The festivity was like Benny and Julia's nuptials all over again, except that this time, both army and former rebels stood shoulder to shoulder as comrades.

Even the circle of lookout guards outside the barrio's perimeter was composed of both uniformed and plain-clothed men.

There was tight security because they were still wary of any possible retaliation from the NPA's higher echelon of leaders.

The first thing Benny did as a freeman was to visit Fr. Belucci.

Ka Anton, now simply called Anton never left his side.

There were three army men assigned momentarily as bodyguards to ensure Benny's safety, but Anton was the best friend Benny never had in school.

Fr. Belucci had aged a lot the last time he had seen him. But he still had the same spunk and gay spirit that he so admired in him. Benny hugged the priest and he was speechless from emotion. Fr. Belucci had been a father, a confidante, a friend, a teacher and everything Benny could ask for. He remembered when he was still a young boy and how the priest had painstakingly taught him the moral values that a good person should possess.

" Back to school for you, Benny," Fr. Belucci's voice quivered when he finally spoke.

"I've got a family now to feed, Father" Benny gently reminded the good priest.

" I'll take care of that. You can pay me up to the last centavo after you have graduated and have landed a decent job."

"But...." Benny started to protest.

The priest lay a gnarled hand on Benny's arm, "This is what your people want. Each has already contributed a share. They know you have the needed qualifications to pursue a higher degree. I would have gladly shouldered all your expenses but they insisted and wanted to be part of your education. Don't let them down."

(TO BE CONTINUED)
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CHAPTER 12 - UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

You may want to read CHAPTER 11 first.

The mountains stood like mute witnesses to the drama that was about to unfold on its once pristine grounds. The mephitic stench of bloodbath that had occurred recurrently was now a necessity that they endure- a purge that has to happen to purify their mundane existence.

The three groups - Kumander Benny's , General Aman's and Ka Lito's- were slowly converging at the designated place.

Ka Lito's band of scalawags however, was a few yards ahead of the two and was intercepting both groups.

When they were more than a hundred yards away from General Aman's army, Benny ordered a full stop.

The two leaders unarmed themselves and began to walk towards the center of the clearing, as their men watched anxiously; even the forest stood still in eerie silence.

Suddenly, a shot rang piercingly through the thin air . Then another... and then another. ..

Ka Anton, saw Kumander Benny go down in a heap on the first volley of gunfire. "It's a trap. It's a trap. Take cover!" he shouted and fired aimlessly into the company of soldiers.

He was about to crawl towards Benny, when he saw him waving his hand shouting, "Retreat, retreat." Benny knew they were no match for the army's mighty artillery.

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There was bedlam! The media covering the event were busy clicking their cameras unmindful of the danger of being wounded in the crossfire.

General Aman was shouting too
"Cease fire, cease fire!" His face was a mask of anger and anxiety.

A few staccato bullets were fired by the retreating NPA rebels but they were gone within minutes.

There were no casualties on the government side.

"Who fired those first shots ?" General Aman demanded indignantly.

"We didn't, " Captain Abasolo replied. "We had assumed , it was them."

" You mean, they would shoot at their own Kumander? " the General asked the question incredulously.

"We were shot at too, General. " Lt. Carreon interjected. "Won't we be going after them? It would be easy to follow them as their leader is wounded."

" We are not savages, Lt. Carreon. I gave my word to Kumander Benny that I'll personally make sure they'll be safe and sound, and now he is wounded. Listen up," General Aman was yelling. "No one is to fire another bullet from here onwards."

He looked at his men soberly and added in a low, powerful voice , " I want you to remember this, a war can be won, not only in the battlefield - it can also be won peacefully."

"General Aman is right," Captain Abasolo seconded, " We have a bad reputation as an army of ruthless and heartless men. It's time we start proving to them that there are still good men in the military."

*********

Ka Lito and his men were watching General Aman's army from a distance.

"How come they didn't pursue them?" Ka Lito was frustrated and furious. "They should pursue them and pulverize their camp."

"Let me shoot that imbecile general," Ka Dencio was fuming too. He was an envious man, who thrived on intrigues and conflicts. He was immensely enjoying plotting the downfall of Benny - someone he considered a "lucky" bastard.

"Don't " Ka Lito restrained Ka Dencio's hand. " We're no match for them, and they'll come to know, we are the culprits. Let's go, we have succeeded in our goal."

"What goal Ka Lito?" the voice rang loud and clear . They all turned to face Ka Anton. " I'm thankful now I was not able to teach you very well in marksmanship," Ka Anton added.

Ka Lito tried to reach for his gun, "I wouldn't dare, " Ka Anton gave a quick flick of his fingers. Twelve men materialized from the thick foliage. "Disarm them." he commanded.

Ka Lito's group submitted without protest. Ka Lito grumbled and scowled but that was all he was able to do.

Ka Anton gave one last glance at General Aman's retreating army, before he trudged behind the prisoners.

They came upon Benny being treated by Julia. Luckily , the bullet had just grazed his right arm. A second scar that would be a perfect match for the already existing old one.

How much wound can a man take? Ka Anton wanted to ask Benny but he said instead, "The soldiers aren't pursuing us, Kumander" he assured Benny, " but I found these traitors ."

"You call me a traitor, hmmp... look who's talking..." Ka Lito was bursting with so much enmity.

"You're the ones betraying the ideals of our organization by surrendering. I was aiming at your heart but you're one lucky devil." he pointed an accusing finger at Benny.

Benny said nothing but looked straight into him, " They were the ones who fired the first shots..." he was nodding comprehendingly.

Ka Lito blinked and guiltily looked the other way.

"Let me do the honor of shooting this filthy scumbag," Ka Anton raised his gun.

"No, " Benny said calmly. " They should be brought to General Aman and be held liable for the trouble they had caused."

(TO BE CONTINUED)
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CHAPTER 11 - UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

You may want to read CHAPTER 10 first.

"Anyone who does not want to surrender, may leave now," Benny said as he scanned the unsmiling and anxious faces around him.

" Those who have decided to come with me, I assure you that I'll do whatever that needs to be done to ensure your safety. We can't stay here in the mountains forever. I know how you would want to go home to your families too."

There was a general murmur of agreement. Not all had their families with them, especially those with very young children. The clean mountain air and natural environment would be an ideal place for growing children, but the constant movement of the rebel troops would be too much for them to handle.

" We don't trust anyone but you Kumander. So if you say it would be fine, then we'll be coming with you." Ka Anton, Benny's most trusted aide, expressed the sentiments of those who were present.

And so the group of more than a hundred men commenced their arduous trek downhill. General Aman was to meet them halfway.

Benny thought about the NPA's higher echelon of officers. What would be the reaction of the Supreme Kumander? As of that moment, it had been kept a secret but it wouldn't be long before they would come to know about it and there would be hell to pay. He shook his head to banish the morbid misgivings.

Benny was more concerned about Julia, his unborn child, and the lives and future of the men under his command. He felt he was personally responsible for each of them.

The agreement of Benny's surrender to General Aman was made through Fr. Belucci and selected emissaries from Taloctoc.

Fr. Belucci personally requested for General Aman as he trusted him. He had known the man since he was a lanky kid in high school. Just like Benny, Henry Aman was honest, trustworthy and responsible.

The plan was that Benny and his unit would be escorted by General Aman's army from the point of convergence to the military camp, where the rebels were to surrender their arms.

Benny requested that the local media be present to record the proceedings. He did not fancy hugging the limelight, but he knew that any vital, government player who may plan to sabotage the event would think twice, because of the presence of the media. Most traditional policitians were meticulous about their public image and they took great pains in maintaining their impeccable self esteem.

The media were allowed- now and then - to broadcast events which the government considered newsworthy. The surrender of Kumander Benny - one of the most respected and revered rebel leader - would be an astounding success for the government and would be a tremendous blow to the insurgency movement in the country.

Of course, inevitable questions would soon arise as to why Benny was surrendering when he was supposedly incarcerated already by the military.

Strategists in the government knew that the whole story of Benny's escape would have to be revealed eventually, but only after his surrender.

That way the government still had the "victory".

by soldiersmediacenter

******

A few miles away from Benny's camp, Ka Lito with 5 other men were changing into army clothes.

"A job well done, Ka Dencio," Ka Lito was smiling as he donned the pilfered military uniform.

"Look how this perfectly fits me," and he guffawed with laughter. "I'm now a Major in the Army."

"Major, Captain Cerrudo, reporting for duty, sir." the smallest man said.

"You look like a chipmunk," Ka Lito roared with laughter , and the other five followed suit.

"Let's get back to business, " Ka Lito assumed his serious air of arrogance.

"Are you sure of the route they'll be taking?" he asked Ka Dencio.

"Yes, I got it from a reliable source, from the mouth of babes, comes forth the truth... " Ka Dencio's source was a naive, barrio kid whom he had sweet talked. Ka Dencio was an intelligent, misguided man who rejoiced in the misfortunes of other people. He had never met Kummander Benny up close, but he despised the popularity of the young man. Probabaly because, he should have been also a respected Kummander if he hadn't been too self-absorbed with his own ulterior motives.

"We'll have to ambush them before they reach Mangga, that way, they'll think they have been betrayed by the army."

Then they danced around in circles and stomped their feet with glee for their wicked machinations .

"I would like to see the expression on Benny's smug face, after this. Remember, we must be swift. We will just create the smoke, then leave them fighting off the fire."

*****

General Aman was giving instructions to his staff.

"Captain Abasolo, be in charge of the lead group, Lt. Carreon - the rear . At no time at all will you be using your guns. No one is to fire his gun until I personally order it. Is that clear?"

" Sir, yes sir," the men chorused.

The two media personnel were assigned three escorts and were instructed to stay behind the lead soldiers.

And so they began their silent march into the deep, unwelcoming forest.

(TO BE CONTINUED)
HOME

CHAPTER 10 - UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

You may want to read CHAPTER 9 first.

Lt. Antonio was standing before a court martial. There were only 13 people in the room. The 11 were high ranking officials, while the two were guards.

This was an event that the government wanted to conceal from the media.

" After careful deliberations, this General Court-Martial unanimously declares and hereby adjudges the accused - Lt. Rodolfo G. Antonio Jr. - guilty beyond reasonable doubt of the charge covered by Article of War of conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman. This General Court-Martial hereby imposes the following sentence upon the accused -Lt. Rodolfo Antonio Jr. - to be discharged from the military."

Maj. Gen. Henry Gorospe, president of the 11-member military tribunal, folded the crisp paper and handed it to the Judge Advocate.

Lt. Antonio's face was expressionless. There was a dreamy, peaceful look in his eyes.

Benny learned about this news through the underground's grapevine. His escape and Lt. Antonio's case had never found their way to the media's headlines. Lots of people still believed that Benny was still in the hands of the military. This the government conveniently kept silent about - not denying nor confirming.

Benny wanted to rescue Lt. Antonio but he knew it was safer for him not to keep in touch. Carting him off to the mountains would not be a good idea also, because it would be extremely difficult for Lt. Antonio, as he had grown up in the city.

Benny had a fitful sleep that night, thinking of how he could help Lt. Anotnio. In the morning, he sent a letter through a courier expressing his heartfelt gratitude for all the things he had done for him and that if he so desired to join him in the mountains, he would gladly fetch him - no matter.

Lt. Anontio's reply was brief. " I'm just one person Ka Benny, don't worry about me. I have other plans. Continue pursuing your dreams for your people."

Benny however had doubts about the path that he was pursuing now.

The NPA's leadership was slowly corroding because of misunderstandings between their own beliefs. The ideals and principles Benny once fought for were taking in a different, darker shade.

There were atrocities and senseless killings now done by the rebels themselves - not in Benny's unit- but by rebels nevertheless and the higher ranking leaders opt not to notice them - just to maintain their rank and file.

More and more undisciplined rebels, turned violent at the mere hint of hesitation by the people to give "tax" (in kind or in cash), to support the rebels' cause.

They started requesting foreign military aid too which Benny did not approve. This was an internal problem and asking for foreign intervention would endanger the country from opposing forces of powerful nations - the extreme right and the extreme left.

This made Benny started doubting the path that they were treading on. Was this the path to equality, freedom and justice that he so valiantly fought for from the start?

In his hearts of hearts , he knew the course they were following now was definitely not his dreams for his people.

There had been a peaceful call from the government for rebels to lay down their arms and return to the folds of society without any danger of prosecution. This was called the "General Amnesty". "Surrender or Die" -the message of the government was loud and clear.

" What's bothering you?" Julia caressed his nape.

Julia could still take his breath away, Benny thought, "It's nothing" he replied, taking hold of her hands and holding them tight to his chest.

"I've got good news for you," Julia said.

" Let's hear this good news," he tried to sound exultant.

"I'm pregnant, " she intoned happily.

The world seemed to come to a standstill as the unexpected news slowly sinked into Benny's consciousness. The extreme joy of the moment took his breath away and tears began to well up in his eyes. He had to inhale heavily to suck in air. He gave a long, loud whoop and carried Julia in his sinewy arms. He lifted her high up in the air and buried his face in her soft thighs. He was jubilant and overjoyed beyond words.

They were both laughing and caught up in the unadulterated happiness that they alone understood. Ina and Ama would be happy too, Benny thought.


Photo by fauxto_digit

The following week, Benny received a letter from Fr. Belucci through one of their couriers.

My Dear Benny,

It is more peaceful now that Martial Law has finally stabilized. You've been doing a good job looking after your own people. The peace pact has been unbroken even after Julia's father had passed away.

The peace pact that he established together with the other tribal elders is still respected by all tribes.

The government has also ceased pushing through with the dam project altogether, because of your bold stand. In fact, Major Abunda had been relieved from his post.

There's no longer any need to stay in the mountains. Take advantage of this peace offering and come down. This way, you could help your people more.

I heard Julia is heavy with child. Your Ama, Ina and mother in law plead with you to come down. Do this because of your child.

God bless you my son,
Fr. Belucci

(TO BE CONTINUED)

HOME

CHAPTER 9- UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

You may want to read CHAPTER 8 first

by smokejmt

Rested and invigorated, he reluctantly stood up and cast a last glance at the dissolving kaleidoscope of colors.

This was where he had always come when he wanted sometime to himself.

The rebel hideout was just a mile away.


His escape had been relatively easy because the military had underestimated his stamina.

The forest was silent except for the sounds of a nearby, bubbling stream, the gentle whisper of rustling leaves and the gaily chirping of birds.

"Tweet, tweet," he stood sill and listened to the familiar sound. "Tweet, tweet", it came again.

He imitated the sound ... "tweet, tweet."

Soon, two men materialized from the tall, verdant grass.

"We've been waiting for you, Kumander" the younger one said. "Welcome back."

" Ka Anton, you're looking good, " Benny gave him a bear hug. "Ka Dan, ..." and then he hugged the other man tightly, their eyes shimmering with unshed tears of joy. "Welcome back , Kumander, " Ka Dan said.

So, they're calling me Kumander now, Benny thought. Did they receive a message from the supreme Kumander for his promotion? He opted not to ask.

They were a few yards away, when they heard a commotion from the camp. Benny did not expect to be assailed by a problem so soon.

There in the middle of the clearing was a man who apparently wanted some attention. It was Ka Lito. Benny's heartbeat stopped momentarily as he saw who Lito was pointing at. It was Julia!

" Do you want this woman to lead us? Where is your sense of pride? You agree to be ordered around by this woman, just because she happens to be the wife of Kummander Benny? " Ka Lito was enjoying his performance to the hilt, even swaying to and fro on the balls of his feet.

Before Julia could reply, Benny sauntered to the middle of the clearing. When the people recognized him, everyone cheered. Julia ran towards him, her face brilliant with happiness.

"It's Kumander Benny!" they shouted with joy.

Benny gave her a tight hug and gently pushed her aside. He asked in his low, commanding voice, "Now what is this all about Ka Lito?"

Julia spoke loudly but calmly for everyone to hear, "He had terrorized the old folks in Mandali and threatened them if they won't give all their harvest."

"Is that what you did, Ka Lito?" Benny's voice was incredulous.

"Well, they did not want to give their share , so I had to scare them a bit," he conceded.

" Didn't we agree that intimidation and force should never be used when we asked for donations? " Benny asked Ka Lito patiently.

"The old man suffered bruises by what he did," another man shouted.

"Don't you have any moral scruples, Ka Lito? Hurting a defenseless old man? . You know the rules, Ka Lito. If you can't live by them then you have to leave the fold," Benny ordered ominously. " Right now!" There was no denying the intensity of Benny's command.

Ka Lito hesitated for a moment, Benny can perceive the struggling emotions of the man, whether to accept the order or to defy it.

Ka Lito surreptitiously looked around him, paused and then said, " Sure, I'll go, I don't fancy staying with a band of effeminate rebels pretending to be men."

He walked a few steps forward and then stopped in his tracks.

For a moment Benny thought, he was going to draw his gun, but he didn't ." Those who want to come with me and fight the war like real men, follow me," he hollered.

No one followed Ka Lito as he cursed and swore to high heavens about what a bunch of cowards they were.


by carulmare

During that night in the rebel camp - away from both their native barrios (because of the increasing government insurgency campaign )- Benny and Julia were together again in body and soul - lost in their own paradise of ecstasy and bliss..

"Remind me tomorrow to make sure the old man is doing fine, " Benny was saying to Julia referring to Ka Lito's victim.

His succeeding words were lost as they groped hungrily for each other. Everything else was forgotten.

They slept in each other's arms satiated and fulfilled - making up for the sleepless nights of their unavoidable separation.

Even the grief of Julia over her father's death has taken the backseat.

(TO BE CONTINUED)

HOME

CHAPTER 8 UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

Photos by: Starry Vincent

The patient in room 27, who was admitted for gastritis, was singing and a sizable crowd was gathering at her door. They were totally mesmerized by her golden voice. She was Nova Cardona, a budding and talented TV star.

"Hurry up," Lt. Antonio whispered to Benny.

Benny was in the military uniform of a captain. He looked dashing but deathly pale. It had been a week in the hospital but he still felt nauseous and unsteady on his feet.

There were two guards who stood at his door but their back was turned as they too were enraptured by Nova's voice; they hardly noticed the two coming out of the room.

"This way," Lt. Antonio, opted for the stairs instead of the elevators. They ascended the stairs in swift, stealthy movements and reached the ground floor in no time at all.

"I'll take it from here," Benny looked straight at his new found friend. He had never been close to Lt. Antonio in the University. But he was admired by many students whom he barely knew and Rudy Antonio was one of them. "Thanks for the help Rudy, I owe you one." Benny tightly gripped Lt. Antonio's hand.

"I can't leave you alone. You're still not safe here. C'mon, we're wasting time," Lt. Antonio protested and sprinted towards the shadows of the next building.

They were on foot as the checkpoints were still in place and they knew they had to be out off the streets before midnight, because of the curfew hours.

The Doctor's next round in the hospital would be after 6 hours and if they could make it to the army truck at the outskirts of the city, everything would be fine.

*****

It was 9 pm when the twinkling, bright lights had finally turned into pinpoints - indicating they were now at a safe distance from the city. Benny was ready to buckle. He was hyperventilating and his body felt clammy and worn out.

"Go," Lt. Antonio motioned Benny inside the truck, as he jumped into the driver's seat. " Cover yourself with the blanket. If they inspect the truck and see you, act sleepy."

But No one stopped them. They came nose to nose with army vehicles along the road and the usual honking of horns was all that happened.

There was a main checkpoint however, before they could reach the last town; Lt. Antonio was not bothered. They were relatively safe unless someone wanted to inspect the truck and recognize Benny.

It was after an hour that they came to the checkpoint. Benny had fallen into a dreamless sleep and was awakened by loud voices.

"Hello, sir," the swarthy private bellowed. "May I know what we have here?"

" I'm in a hurry, private. Will visit a relative in the next town and will have to be back before dawn."

" Sir, we have strict orders from General Layson himself, to inspect all vehicles passing through this checkpoint - even army vehicles," the private was a good soldier.

The general's order was called for because the next town was believed to be NPA infiltrated and objecting to the search would make the private more suspicious.

"Okay, but make it quick." Lt. Antonio sat rigidly at the wheels, his hand on the butt of his gun. He was hardly breathing. He was hoping Benny would be able to act convincingly.

After some interminable minutes, the loud voice of the private echoed from the back of the truck, " Have a pleasant trip , sir," he said and the signal was given to the other guard at the gate to allow the truck to pass through.

Lt. Antonio breathed a sigh of relief. But how come the private didn't find Benny?

He cruised a little farther away and finally stopped. When he checked on him, his niggling premonition was true- Benny was gone!

*******

Benny was already a hundred yards away from the checkpoint. The nap had rested him and he was moving faster now. He was used to walking long distances as in the nature of their condition, they rarely used vehicles for fear of detection.

He was lucky the bullet didn't hit any of his vital organs. The blood loss however may have cost him his life if he had not been transfused immediately with blood .

Lt. Antonio had planned his escape. They had to do it while he was still in the hospital as the top brass was demanding that he be transported ASAP to headquarters when he was well enough to walk.

Lt. Antonio could have requested that he be placed in his custody and a lot of officers would trust his judgement but they both did not want to take chances. Some scalawags in the military might want to "salvage" him. (Salvage" was a popular term during that era, in which people were summarily executed in the guise of self defense or because they allegedly attempted to escape.)

Even, Nova Cardona was such a great help. He had gained new friends from his short stay in the hospital. Rudy had always believed he was the good guy even when he learned of his recruitment to the NPA. And Nova, in spite of her growing popularity, had a childlike insouciance that made her a pleasant companion in the few days that they had their morning sun in the hospital's large garden, where they came to know each other.

He had not seen Julia for over a week and he missed her terribly but to allow her to visit was very risky as she was on the rebel's list too. He also learned from Rudy that his father -in -law died of myocardial infarction, right after he was captured. He felt extremely sad for not being able to attend his wake.

These were the thoughts that accompanied him as he finally ascended the familiar terrain. This is the NPA's stronghold and he was relatively safe. The moon was afloat and the illumination that it provided was sufficient for his accustomed feet. But he knew that the military were slowly inching their way onwards and they have to counteract this recent development.

He reached the peak just as dawn was breaking.



Sitting now at the small clearing and watching the interplay of colors, he was thinking what a lucky man he was, still alive and breathing.

The sun finally broke free from the restraining clouds that had earlier hampered its ascendance.

It now shone on him with such brilliance that gave him a certain assurance that eveything would eventually fall into place.
*****

HOME

(TO BE CONTINUED)

CHAPTER 7 UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW)

Photo by: Aussiegall

The small congregation of mourners inched their way through the muddy terrain like a laboriously moving snake. It was drizzling and dark clouds were hovering over the horizon like ominous monsters ready to gobble up anyone within its reach. A fierce storm was about to brew.

The men wore black arm bands and the women were adorned in black veils denoting the grief and sadness they were harboring in their hearts.

At the cemetery, the elders paid their respects one last time as each of them gave a brief speech about the departed's courage, bravery and moral integrity.

" Naapon katna e tago e nangwa adte amin eh mambalo ." (Nobody can ever equal the noble thing he did for us.)

" Kabuniyan, sika pay de mangala kan siya." ( God, we entrust him to you.)

Just then, a sizzle of lightning, lighted up the sky and the sonorous sound of thunder rumbled as the drizzle began to increase in intensity - even the sky was grieving.

The women wailed and chanted their cries of grief. " Aiieeeee..."

Julia's pale, stony face stood out amidst the group of women .

**********

In the city, the newspapers screamed the headlines , " NPA Rebel Leader Ka Benny Lomiwan Captured."

The article was extremely brief for a supposedly enormous triumph of the governent's campaign against insurgency. The article described how Benny was seriously wounded and captured in a skirmish between the army and the rebels.

People who read the article were skeptcial, especially that the article was accompanied by a picture of a bloodied man who was hardly recognizable and most especially that it was from the government .

The advent of Martial Law heralded the "news blackout". The few enterprising, TV , radio and print media were tightly controlled by the government - even those pirvately owned. Freedom of speech was no longer a basic right. If someone spoke against the government, then he is a rebel. A curfew was in place from 12 midnight to 5 am. People caught outside during these hours were herded off to jail. Control through military might - that was how the whole machinism of Martial Law successfully worked.

There was no longer any news about Benny, the succeeding days. Freelance journalists tried to dig up the rest of the story but the "government" was silent and the courageous ones who stubbornly persisted in searching for the truth were branded pro communist and incarcerated.

From then on, people refrained from expressing their genuine, anti -government sentiments. Life was peaceful, as long as you have convinced the government you don't belong to the other side of the fence.

********

Photo: By Larry and Linda

The breathtaking view was like a painting being slowly revealed in the sky. It deserved a Picasso, the man thought. He watched as the awesome interplay of the sun's emerging rays interacted with the nimbus clouds -producing a shimmering kaleidoscope of colors.

He was sitting in a small clearing at the highest peak of the mountain. He had always basked in the beauty of nature- the forest wind on his face, the raindrops pelting his fatigued body, the dip in the cool, refreshing springs; and just watching that awesome "painting" being unfolded infront of his very eyes had given him a renewed hope that in the end, the good will triumph and that everything will eventually fall into their designated places.

(TO BE CONTINUED)
HOME

CHAPTER 6 -UMMA AYAM SINSANA (WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

You may want to read Chapter 5 first.

It was a standoff!

"Sir, they won't budge an inch," the scrawny private reported to Major Abunda and Lieutenant Antonio.

They have been there for almost an hour and no prodding nor cajoling could convince the throng of men, women, and children of Tindayan to leave the road. Tindayan was the nearest village from where they were.

Major Abunda spoke through his handy loudspeaker, " Please disperse, we are not here to harm you or drive you away from your homes. Just let us pass through."

Photo by BitHead


There was irritation in his voice. "They had traveled through the treacherous, winding road of Kalinga for 12 hours and they could not just turn around now," Major Abunda thought to himself. They had to deliver the dam's construction materials or their arduous trip would be in vain. The task would have been simpler if their air support was sufficient and capable of accomplishing the enormous assignment. He cursed inwardly.

A hundred yards away from where Major Abunda stood, the women in their ginamat(woven clothing) - their bare feet and arms still caked with mud from the fields - had linked their arms to each other.

In front of them were the children - they were sweating profusely amidst the searing heat of the noonday sun. Most of the children were crying. Perhaps their keen child-like perception had sensed the gravity of the situation.

Photo by: toOliver2
The unarmed men , on the other hand, stood stubbornly - shoulder to shoulder - at the middle of the narrow road.

It was a "human" barricade!

For the army to be able to pass through, they would have to run them over.

There was no other way in. The verdant mountains towered on both sides of the narrow dilapidated opening.

Major Abunda consulted with his junior. " We will have to fire some guns, " he said, "just to scare them off - fire them up in the air."

Just then there was a cheer from the other side, A man with a white flag emerged from the throng.

He was unarmed.

They could see that he was instructing the women and children to take cover behind the thick foliage at the further end of the road while the unarmed men stood unmoving. and unperturbed . Benny was in the lead, waving the white flag high up in the air.

"Sir, it's Ka Benny," Lt. Antonio whispered in awe, unable to conceal his emotions . "He obviously wants to negotiate."

Major Abunda spat on the ground and cursed. "Let's go."

He stared balefully at Lt. Antonio when the latter indicated that he should leave his gun. He unceremoniously tossed the gun to the private, before he swaggered towards Benny. His lumbering frame leaving an unpleasant scent of cigarette and booze in his wake. Lt. Antonio followed him grudgingly, his growing disrespect for the major evident in his manner.

Benny met him halfway. " You can't force your way through, Major, " Benny calmly pronounced.

" Oh, the charismatic rebel! " the Major jeered, "perhaps not so much in his leadership abilities but because he is such a good looking man, more than anything else," he continued sarcastically.

Benny ignored his remark. " You have to accept defeat like a gentleman. As we speak, people from the barrio of Liba and Taloctoc are on their way," he was thinking of Julia as he said this - his beloved Julia would soon be there.

"We will pass through by hook or by crook. Yes we will," Major Abunda assured him condescendingly.

"All we want is to live in peace in the land that our forefathers tilled for decades even before you and I were born," Benny continued, like he had not been interrupted. "Leave us in peace."

Lt. Antonio, spoke for the first time, " Ka Benny, the dam will provide the electricity that we need... ," he was saying.

"That YOU need, Lt. Antonio. Let's not argue about that again."

"The government is willing to relocate them, " the general cut in irritatedly, "now allow us to get on with our job".

"Don't you see Major? You obey your orders because it is your job, but these people are here because they believe in their cause. Now that the peace pact is in place, they will have peace. They have simple needs and simple wants. They are happy with what they have right now. They consider this land holy and sacred and would be willing to die for it."

"So you won't mediate and tell them to leave peacefully," Major Abunda spat angrily.

"No, I came here to help avoid bloodshed. Think about it Major. You will be the first one to go down in Philippine history as the notorious officer who murdered hundreds of unarmed and innocent civilians. I am telling you now, they won't give in. " Benny was speaking to the Major but he was looking at Lt. Antonio.

Major Abunda's face flashed a crimson red. "Let's see, " he said and turned on his heels in rage. Lt. Antonio ran to keep up with him.

"Ka Benny is a rebel, shoot him," he commanded Lt. Antonio

Lt. Antonio looked at him agape. "We can't do that here sir, he's unarmed, and we have hundreds of witnesses. "

"Shoot them!" he roared the command to the soldiers behind him.

No one moved. The company of soldiers stood at attention - but no one moved.

Photo by: Department of Defense

The conversation that occurred in the middle of the road echoed a hundred fold due to the deathly quietness around them, and the soldiers had heard every point Benny raised. Most of them came from tribal minorities and they understood what Benny had firmly and uneqiuvocally stated.

One would not understand this, if one did not live in that part of the mountains.

They also trusted the judgment of Lt. Antonio and they were willing to stand behind his decision - court martial or no court martial! They have been under his direct command for years now and he had proven to be a competent and able leader.

Generals and Majors usually come and go!

"What are you waiting for, shoot them," the Major roared.

"Sir, we can't do that. " Lt. Antonio's face was incredulous.

Still no one obeyed the order.

Without warning, the Major grabbed his gun and fired several rounds at Benny. One bullet found its mark, and Benny went down with a painful groan.

Anxious cries came from the women and children, they surged forward like a herd gone berserk.

Lt. Antonio grappled for the gun from the Major, "Don't shoot, Don't shoot!" he shouted to the men behind them.

There was a short scuffle and the Major was finally disarmed and handcuffed.

" I place you under arrest for the attempted murder of Ka Benny," Lt. Antonio went into the litany of the Major's rights.

The Major was livid with anger but he stopped struggling. "You will all pay for this in a court martial, " he screeched at them, but no one listened to him.

Lt. Antonio summoned the medic and they ran towards Benny.

Benny was trying to sit up and was reassuring everyone he was fine, "It's just a minor wound,"

But the large amount of blood that was splattered on the dusty, dry ground told the opposite story.

Lt. Antonio knew Benny was downplaying the injury. This was to avoid inspiring the people's wrath which would have caused a confrontation between the two groups.

He knew in his heart, Benny would give up his life for his people's safety and happiness.

The medic, worriedly whispered something to Lt. Antonio.

Lt. Antonio tapped Benny lightly on the shoulder, " Well , mate, it seems, I have captured one of the regional commanders of the NPA. I will have to turn you in. You need prompt and highly specialized, medical attention ," he said nonchalantly, injecting the gaiety in his voice which he did not feel.

Lt. Antonio's admiration for Benny, was evident. "Don't worry, I'll personally take charge of you". They will have to call in the helicopter, Lt. Antonio was extremely worried.

Benny opened his eyes and smiled weakly at his former, college classmate, " Well,. you deserve it lieutenant. Turn me in, and earn the accolade. Just leave my people alone."

(TO BE CONTINUED)


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CHAPTER 5 - UMMA AYAM SINSANA ( WHERE ARE YOU NOW?)

Photo by IrisDragon

You may want to read chapter 4 first.

The zephyr breeze caressed her upturned face and diffused into the thin moisture of sweat that seeped through her skin.. She gasped, seemingly in need of air. Her eyes were closed, like a maiden in repose. She had delicate, gossamer wings on - flimsy, undulating appendages - that were gently flying her higher and higher up the clouds. She moaned and her thighs quivered as each exquisite rivulet of sensation coursed through her body.

Benny, kissed her mount of Hedon once more as another moan of pleasure escaped from her .
The building desire that Benny felt had reached its crescendo. It was more than he could bear now. His mouth on hers, he gently lowered himself into Julia. When skin touched skin - two became one - and their bodies were lost in the miasma of pleasure and ecstasy. It was like a glowing ember - at first, flickering in the dark, then increasing in intensity... growing bigger and brighter... until it became one fiery conflagration that was difficult to contain. This left them grasping and clinging hungrily for each other. They were oblivious of everything around them as they rolled and wrestled on the bamboo floor of the small hut.

Outside, a bonfire was raging. A handful of young men and women were singing the salidummay - "ay ay salidummay, salidummay, diway." ( a native chant). Their eager, brown faces looked surreal amidst the shadows of the night. The "gangsa" (gongs) have been neatly stacked in one corner of the small, corrugated plaza. The plaza was almost empty now, except for them. The arm of Morpheus seemed to be at a distance to these young people, as they laughed merrily, taunted and flirted with each other.

It was Benny and Julia's first night as husband and wife.


The taddok (native dances) and the gangsa (gongs) had opened the festivities in the morning, while a cow was butchered for that momentous occasion - complete with the native rituals that the old folks had performed. There was merrymaking all day long, with lots of "basi" native wine and rice cakes enough for the small, far -flung barrio to feast on.

Fr. Belucci wanted to conduct a formal church wedding but the increasing violence and unrest in the area had made it impossible for them to implement that plan. Instead, a native Taloctoc wedding took place, where Benny's parents finally met Julia's.

The good priest was too old to take the arduous trek to Taloctoc; but he did not protest to the native wedding as he was aware that native marriages were even more binding and respected by the people.

In Taloctoc, even at very young ages, children were betrothed to someone their parents considered suitable. When the child reached puberty, marriage was the inevitable conclusion. The word "love" never came into the picture. Love was a relative word for them. So the tradition of betrothal was usually followed without question. Benny was spared of this, because of Fr. Belucci.
***
Far from the perimeter of the eerie shadows of the bonfire, 5 men stood rigidly on guard . In spite of the festive air, their ears and eyes were alert and wary. And it was justified that they should be , for after a few minutes, a man came crashing through the thick foliage.

"Where's Ka Benny?" the man asked in one burst of bated breath.

" Calm down, what is it?"

" We have to get going, a whole battalion of soldiers will be at Tindayan tomorrow morning to start bringing materials for the dam," he could not conceal the growing desperation in his voice.

At the first loud knock, Benny knew it was time to go. He was thankful, God had given him those few, precious hours to be with his parents again and to be wed to the woman he loved most.

"They did what I predicted ," Benny said as a matter-of -fact, before the man could open his mouth.

The man vigorously nodded. "Yes, yes...it is positive, they had started their convoy now.

"Then gather the men. Let's start moving" Benny directed. He stood for a minute staring at the back of the departing man and thought, " Was this a part of my plan when I started schooling? To be the regional commander of the NPA (New People's Army)? He had never been a violent man...even now...but fate had handed him a different dish. He was lucky, Taloctoc was one of the NPA's stronghold, or he would not have been able to get married peacefully.

Photo by Jenn of Jenn Was Here

When Ka Pepe had literally forced him and Julia to go to the mountains with them on that dreadful night, he had never thought that he would be taking Ka Pepe's place. Ka Pepe had died in one bloody encounter with the army in the mountains of Benguet. From then on, the rest of the men, looked up to him for guidance and direction. He was one of the youngest in the group but his thoughts and ideas were brilliant. His tactical offensives were like that of an experienced general in the field of battle. Benny knew it was because of the countless books that he had read which gave him vital insights into many things. He was voted unanimously to take Ka Pepe's place.

The atrocities of the government coupled with the abuse of the military because of martial law had caused Benny to question the government's supposed to be - pro-people agenda. The tribal chief of Tindayan had been assassinated because of the dam project and now they were bringing in the army to drive them away from the land that they had treasured and considered their lifeline. He realized to his surprise that the NPA's idealogies were the goals he would like to achieve : equality, freedom and justice for all.

"What is it?" Julia was beside him.

He snapped out of his train of thoughts and looked into her eyes. How he loved this woman so much. He had read in books the phrases-"love at first sight" and "head over heels" but he had laughed at these then. How could a person fall in love at first glance? But he was sure now, that what he felt for Julia was not only love at first sight but a love he could not even properly, articulate in words ( and people say that he was a prolific writer!) .

They were barely together for 2 weeks, but he had been drawn like a magnet- irresistibly and undeniably- towards her. He could not imagine life without Julia- and he knew he had to marry her or he'll never be happy.

"Do you have to go now?" her voice was worried but soothing and calm.

"I'm afraid we have to," he touched her face with the tips of his finger, tracing the contours that he came to know so intimately that night.

"I love you", he said, whispering...seeking...adoring...

"I love you too," she said and kissed him fervently - almost like a prayer.

(TO BE CONTINUED)

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