Inspirational: from Positive Minds

"The most beautiful people you'll ever meet aren't always the ones who catch your eyes first. No, the most beautiful are the ones that can never be figured out. The one you could talk with for many hours and still have a million things to ask. The people who have mind so lovely and special, you can help but fall in love with them." ~Positive Minds

Henry Steele Commager - history

"For a people to be without history, or to be ignorant of its history, is as for a man to be without memory - condemned forever to make the same discoveries that have been made in the past, invent the same techniques, wrestle with the same problems, commit the same errors; and condemned, too, to forfeit the rich pleasures of recollection. Indeed, just as it is difficult to imagine history without civilization, so it is difficult to imagine civilization without history." ~Henry Steele Commager(1965), American Historian

Claro M. Recto, Jr and Sr. Quotes

"Dust is our origin and destiny, that painful and bitter thought it is, we have to vow in humble submission and forthwith repeat with Jesus in Gethsemane, "Thy WILL be done, not as I will but Thou Wilt." ~Claro M. Recto

"Nationalism is nourished by a sense of history. It is of its essence to know profoundly the past, so that we may be in complete openness with the men who made that history and in intimate communion with their thoughts, their deeds and their noble lives." ~Claro M. Recto, Jr (8 February 1890-1960 - National Historical Commission of the Philippines)

"Sentimentalism and emotionalism should not play a part in international relations. It is folly to expect any nation to ever sacrifice its welfare and security to pure idealism or to sentimental attachments. As Filipinos, we must look out for ourselves, because no one else will. That is the essence of our independence.” ~Senator Claro M. Recto

"The sad fate of one who accepts the military protection of another is that he has no one to protect him from his protector." ~Claro M. Recto 

"To this day the colonial in the Philippines is not over. Many of our countrymen, deluded by a flag, the name republic, a foreign office at home and embassies abroad, a seat in the United Nations, and other visible symbols of sovereignty, consider themselves free and independent, unaware that we are in many ways tied and fettered, politically, militarily, economically and culturally. This self delusion is one of the greatest stumbling blocks to the full realization of Filipino nationalism and the ultimate attainment of complete and real sovereignty." ~Claro M. Recto

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Bruce Villafuerte Rivera Quotes

REST IN PEACE ATTY. BRUCE V. RIVERA 😢 

 

"Clearly, the greater tragedy than ignorance is the laziness to know the truth. Sadly, most of the better thinkers on the other side suffer from this malaise." ~Bruce V. Rivera

"I know I can never be a parent. But if I was a parent, I will never let my child fight for things I believe in. Not even if he or she believed it too. For as long as he or she is a child, I should fight for him." ~Atty. Bruce V. Rivera, July 2017

"I live in the Philippines not Metro Manila." ~Bruce Villafuerte Rivera, GRPundit, November 30, 2016 GRPundit

"Ordinary citizens who cannot afford to control a media company, influence people, create powerful organizations or lobby to hate. But we can feel their pulse. They are no longer buying all the information you were once feeding them." ~Bruce Villafuerte Rivera, November 30, 2016 GRPundit

"The revolutionary warriors in the past who fought for their ideology acted like freedom soldiers." ~Atty Bruce V. Rivera

"The rich do not feel the gains of this administration because to the bubble of Metro Manila, it is all discomfort. They will not feel the drop in criminality kasi walang snatcher sa Forbes Park. They will not feel efficient governance kasi may pumipila sa kanila para kumuha ng lisensya sa LTO. They will not feel the good effects of lowered corruption kasi kahit nung una, priority sila sa infrastructure. They will not notice how ordinary citizens feel special because they are now the ones who are taken in the same genus as ordinary citizens." ~Bruce Villafuerte Rivera, November 30, 2016, GRPundit

"We deserve the nation we have. Even if we are in the midst of the pandemic and we should be thanking the heavens, our wounds are not as huge as the others, we just would not stop with our self-interests." ~Bruce V. Rivera, May 9, 2020

"When the administrators of an educational institution allow its student to carry a placard saying that someone is a murderer or a dictator, it places that child in a situation where she is being made to accuse someone of being a bad person or even a criminal. Something that the child cannot substantiate because she or he cannot file a case in a court of law personally and has to be represented by the parents. Why give the burden of accusing someone as a dictator or a murderer to a child when it should be the adults doing it. How can it escape someone's logic not to think that if indeed PRD is the evil man they accuse him to be, it would put that child's life in danger. How can adults allow children to fight their wars? How can parents even allow their children enter an institution that reckless?" ~Attorney Bruce V. Rivera, 20 July 2017

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Dr. Delmar Topinio Taclibon - sovereign nation

"From 1898 to 1946, is inscribed in World History as an epoch of the United States of America’s Hegemony in the Philippines; from 1946 to 2016, the American Empire extended their colonial control and command over our leaders and people until such time that a “Moro/Indio” President emerged and reverberated the naked truth to the whole wide world about the atrocities, human rights violations and exploitations done to us by our supposed protector and big brother – which is a fallacy leading to hoax. Enough is enough; we should now be free from the bondage of foreign oppression and so from the trammels of our development as a sovereign nation. Now we are free!" ~Dr. Delmar Topinio Taclibon, Ph D (Oct 30, 2016)

Stanley Abram KARNOW - bewildered identity

"The United States of America should be blamed for remoulding the Filipinos in their own ‘Image’ and depriving them of their ‘Soul’ – an experience that have left the ‘Bewildered’ about their ‘Identity.’ “They (Filipinos) are Asian People not Asian in the eyes of their fellow Asians. Not Western in the eyes of the West.” ~Stanley Abram KARNOW, In Our Image: America’s Empire in the Philippines

Van Ybiernas Quotes

"Rizal's role in history is his efforts to endow the country with a firm sense of nationhood. The retraction, if genuine, will NOT change that." ~Van Ybiernas, on Rizal Course: Using Rizal's life, works and writings TO STRENGTHEN THE FILIPINO YOUTH'S NATIONALISM. November 28, 2016

"True historians are fair, not blind." ~Van Ybiernas, 28 November 2016

"Truth cannot be suppressed, especially in this day and age where access to information is dispersed and uncontrollable. ... do not let the loud voices of the vociferous drown out your own voice. Do not out-shout them. There is no need to shout back. But do not let them drown out your own voice. .......In time, all of our voices will be heard." ~Van Ybiernas, FB, November 28, 2016 on the topic of Rizal

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A THOUGHT TO PONDER: Self-control by Nelson Mandela

"He had caused me to violate my self-control and I considered that a defeat at the hands of my opponent." ~Nelson Mandela from Long Walk to Freedom, talking about a prison warder, 1994, LivingTheLegacy

Josh Cyganik - respect

"I am not a hero. I was raised to respect the people who came before you, to help others out who don’t have much." ~Josh Cyganik (, a Union Pacific railroad inspector) On A guy heard teens laughing at a 75-year-old man's house. Source: Bright Side, FB

Jim Dongiapon - IMPOSED TRUTH

"The reason why foreigners have a hard time understanding our President and the situation of our country is that we have a lot of spin doctors here who feed the imposed truth to the international media." ~Jim Dongiapon, FB on mainstream media

Carlos Munda Quotes

"Duterte's message of a public servant actually serving the public resonates, not just among Filipinos, but with every woking-class person anywhere in the world. Because it is a concept that they understand – an honest day’s pay for an honest day’s work. The President has always said that he will do what he has been paid to do, which is to fix the problems of the Philippines. He never wanted to run, but since the people elected him, then he will just have to faithfully perform the job of the President of the Philippines." ~Carlos Munda, MindaNation: Duterte is one of us, that’s why we love him (And they hate him, because he will never be like them), 10 September 2016

Sadly this pragmatic, no-nonsense approach to leadership can never be understood nor appreciated by those who are used to sophistication and finesse. For them appearance is worth more than substance and Duterte’s crass behavior is a sure sign of low-breeding, stupidity, ignorance, and a thousand other snide remarks that all add up to one thing – he is not sosyal enough to suit their tastes." ~Carlos Munda, MindaNation: Duterte is one of us, that’s why we love him (And they hate him, because he will never be like them), 10 September 2016

"There is a time to fight, and a time to build. Now is the time to build. We have already won the war – no matter what ...... - WE WON THE WAR. Now it’s time we secure peace." ~Carlos Munda, MindaNation, 8 January 2017

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Charles Englund Quotes

"I am fine with the Church making general moral statements but the moment the religious start choosing political sides, and encouraging people to take sides, is when things break down. Let us not forget that one of the supposed aspirations of a modern democracy is that of a secular State." ~Charles Englund

"No matter how blunt the sword, you still have a war to fight." ~Charles Englund, January 10, 2017

"Nobody seems to recognize that the root of the divide is more due to different political priorities. Why are we always talking at cross purposes? Because at the top of your list are EJKs and the burial of Marcos at Libingan. At the top of my list is a move toward efficient and effective government, one that is sincere in its service to the people. I am for tax reform, higher fiscal spending and opening up to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). I believe what Lee Kuan Yew said about the Philippines is true: that the US-style setup of government has failed us even before Marcos tried to change it, and I believe we should move to a parliamentary and federalist system. We need to break up our huge archipelagic country into more manageable and governable federal states. I am concerned that the corruption we have always seen in Philippine politics may have links to drugs—narcopolitics, in other words. I am for peace in Mindanao and a tough stance on terrorists and outlaws. I feel all these things are closer to happening with this administration. Duterte gets all of this and is the best chance we have had since...forever." ~Charles Englund, FB, 2016

"The refreshing realization is that we now have a president who believes the Filipino is worth investing in, and spending on. Duterte will sign the laws to deliver the much needed services, which is what government should do. He will spend. Such a big contrast to the former occupant of Malacanang who vetoed, underspent, and focused on the short term." ~Charles England, 5 August 2017

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Alexander von Humboldt - worldview

"The most dangerous worldview is the worldview of those who have not viewed the world." ~Alexander von Humboldt

Yukio Mishima - dignity of life

"We tend to suffer from the illusion that we are capable of dying for a belief or theory. ... that even in merciless death, a futile death that knows neither flower nor fruit has dignity as the death of a human being. If we value so highly the dignity of life, how can we not also value the dignity of death? No death may be called futile." ~Yukio Mishima on Hagakure : The Samurai Ethic and Modern Japan (1977)

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Immaterial treasures

“With a keen appreciation for the immaterial treasures that bring us closer to God, let us continue to pursue an agenda for genuine change that will be for the best interest of our people. I hope that we cherish with fondness, love and gratitude the spiritual inheritance left by our ancestors and loved ones on their special day." ~Rodrigo Roa Duterte, President of the Philippines, November 1, 2016

Susan Boyle - anonymity

“When you’re famous, you give up your anonymity. It comes with the territory really." ~Susan Boyle on her new album A Wonderful World, November 25, 2016

Steve Wentworth Quotes

"Never laugh at anyone's misfortune, because one day, you may find yourself in exactly the same situation." ~Steve Wentworth

"Some of the most generous people have no money. Some of the wisest people have no education. Some of the kindest people were hurt the most." ~Steve Wentworth

"Why do some people hurt you and then act like you hurt them? ~Steve Wentworth

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J.A. Shedd - Thanksgiving

"He who thanks but with the lips Thanks but in part;
The full, the true Thanksgiving Comes from the heart."
~J.A. Shedd

Rocky Gonzalez Quotes

"From being washed out and threadbare because of corruption, PDu30 and his administration weave new and positive stories into our collective national experience. We are the thread that will limn the Philippine tapestry with brighter images and themes." ~Rocky Gonzalez, MindaNation (November 24, 2016)

"The moral fabric of society has been well worn by the personal interests, greed and politics of the people who are supposed to guide and protect us like the government, the military and police, and the church." ~Rocky Gonzalez, 24 November 2016

"The present president is besieged by the woes and worries cultivated by his calloused predecessor. He must weed out the narcotics trade and their protectors, thieves in every level and branch of government, corruption, apathy and a degenerated sense of sovereignty. He cuts through every single one of these obstacles with a strong link to the past but with a clear view of tomorrow. These difficulties which beset him may be too much for one man to handle but he chooses to do it." ~Rocky Gonzales, 28 December 2016, Duterte: A Present President, Huftington Post

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John Griffith - signs and sounds

"But especially he loved to run in the dim twilight of the summer midnights, listening to the subdued and sleepy murmurs of the forest, reading signs and sounds as a man may read a book, and seeking for the mysterious something that called -- called, waking or sleeping, at all times, for him to come." ~from THE CALL OF THE WILD (1903) by John Griffith

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Mankind

"The only animal that harbors hate is mankind." ~A.D. Williams

Perfecto Yasay Quotes

RIP, June 12, 2020

"A 'politician' is one who immediately decides to talk for hours about an issue without even thinking while a 'diplomat' thinks for hours to decide not to say anything." ~Perfecto Yasay, Secretary of Foreign Affairs

"I am honored and humbled in dedicating my life as part of the (incoming) Rodrigo R. Duterte Administration to make change a liberating reality and in shaping a brighter future for our country and people." ~Perfecto Yasay, 18 June 2016

"In pursuing an independent foreign policy it is our duty to uphold the Constitution that mandates the renunciation of war as an instrument of national policy, adherence to the generally accepted principles of international law, peace, equality, justice, freedom and amity with all nations." ~Perfecto Yasay, 18 June 2016

"Journalists who distort the truth to malign, kill and destroy are the worst kind of assassins, murderers and terrorists!" ~Perfecto Yasay (February 2018)

"Let us not be bound by outside standards, concerns or objectives in pursuing the paramount national interest within the context of our democracy, independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, even as we respect every country's right to self determination in accordance with their national interests." ~Perfecto Yasay, 18 June 2016

"We must protect the fundamental right of the people not to be deprived of life, liberty and property without due process. In our commitment to defend their sanctity as God's most wondrous creation, we must be firm in swiftly dismantling and eliminating by every possible means under the rule of law, the harsh conditions and structures that breed inequality and suffering in derogation of their dignity as human beings." ~Perfecto Yasay, 18 June 2016

BIO

Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Philippines

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Carl von Clausewitz - special calling

“Every special calling in life, if it is to be followed with success, requires peculiar qualifications of understanding and soul,” ~Carl von Clausewitz in his opus On War.
(Being accepted in Leiden University’s MA in International Relations will further sharpen my understanding of the theoria and praxis of international politics. The courses I have taken at LUC, as well as at University of California, Los Angeles.)

MANNY PACQUIAO Quotes

"In the midst of all circumstances, we put our trust in you. We humbly pray that your peace and righteousness will reign over our country." ~Manny Pacquiao

"No matter how busy your holiday season may be, you can rest your heart in knowing that God remains in control and works according to His plan." ~Manny Pacquiao (December 7, 2016)

"No matter where life takes you... don't forget where you came from." ~Manny Pacquiao

"Strength of mind overcomes weakness of body." ~from Manny Pacquiao

"The problem in our country is beyond our expectation, beyond our imagination. This illegal drug [problem] is really bad. Government officials, elected officials are involved." ~Sen. Manny Pacquiao

"Use your smile to change the world, don't let the world change your smile." ~Manny Pacquiao

“We cannot over-emphasize the role of civil servants in nation building. They are our partners in instituting growth and development.“ ~Manny Pacquiao, 14 August 2017, ILO Convention 151

MANNY PACQUIAO in Las Vegas

"He is like a sponge... picks up knowledge and common sense by osmosis." ~Dennis Garcia on Manny Pacquiao (Fight against Jessi Vargas, in Las Vegas, November 6, 2016)

"Manny Pacquiao's win is an example of hardwork, faith in God and unadulterated Filipino courage. Great example for those who aspire!" ~Senator Richard Gordon, November 6, 2016

Manny Pacquiao in OXFORD UNIVERSITY

“Being poor does not mean one must die poor." ~Manny Pacquiao

"Believe in the loyalty of family and believe in the Almighty.” ~Manny Pacquiao

"Hard work and persistence will set you free from the shackles of poverty. But it is faith that will take you to the very top. Never lose faith in what you can do as a human being. " ~Manny Pacquiao

"I am a fighter not just because it is my profession. I was a fighter long before I first set foot in a boxing ring. All my life, I have fought to live. Every single day in my youth, I fought for survival.” ~Manny Pacquiao

“I do not fault anyone who views me as singularly ill-equipped for this role. Instead, I ask: Is there anyone more knowledgeable than this humble civil servant about the hardships incident to the way of life of majority of our people? Who among my colleagues has faced poverty face-to-face from birth? Whose life’s work has it been to battle illiteracy?” ~Manny Pacquiao

"I know what I should speak about, something very few among you can claim to know about: my education, certainly non-traditional, non-formal, largely unstructured. I will call it my education in the Open University of Life.” ~Manny Pacquiao

"I may not have financial acuity. I may not be historically fluent. I may not even be socially adept. But I am philosophically rooted in my personal adversities, which morally bind me to the general struggle of our people.” ~Manny Pacquiao, Oxford University, Nov 7, 2018

“If you ignore the odds against you…and as you are taught here at this magnificent institution – never, ever quit. Think of David and Goliath. Look at me. I am not very big and I never had five smooth stones to throw at any obstacle, but determination is a power tool. I won a lot fights." ~Manny Pacquiao

“In crafting effective laws, there is no better guide than the pulse of the masses." ~Manny Pacquiao, Oxford University, Nov 7, 2018

"Miracles do happen. Dreams do come true… You, with your education, determination and faith, you can change the world.” ~Manny Pacquiao

"Yet, through the ashes of destruction, the Filipino always manages to rise up and fight another day." ~Manny Pacquiao
👊

CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY

"As an athlete, I become agitated when I do not improve in terms of speed, style, and stamina. 
I keep pushing myself beyond my limits. I apply the same principles in' public service. As a lifelong learner, I must keep improving myself and I must not stop learning. That way, 
I remain relevant to my people and the world who deserve the best of Manny Pacquiao, inside and outside the ring.

For as long as I exist, I will keep showing up for life. I will continue to be a learner and always strive to be a teacher by imparting my hard-earned lessons to others.

Each one of you in this room can change the world. Have faith, persevere. Find your passion and heed your calling. I urge you, as the Roman poet Horace did: Carpe Diem -- seize the day.
And above all, FIGHT."

~Senator Manny Pacquiao, Speech at Cambridge University (lifted from Mike F. Waldorf post, FB)


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W. T. Purkiser - thanksgiving

"Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of thanksgiving." ~W.T. Purkiser