Book Launchings In Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - The biography of former Philippine Vice President Emmanuel Pelaez was recently launched at Casa Gorordo Museum in Cebu City.

Written by political commentator Nelson Navarro, the coffee table book entitled What’s Happening to Our Country: The Life and Times of Emmanuel Pelaez, was presented to Cebuano civic leaders and students of political history by the Emmanuel Pelaez Foundation in partnership with his nephew, active Cebu Business leader Efrain Pelaez Jr.

The 340 pages book is both a biography and a compelling narrative woven around the key political figures from the Quirino up to the Aquino administration. It clearly defines the patriotism exhibited by   pre-Marcos political figures and serves as a worthy reminder for the need for genuine servant leadership among those seeking public office.

According to Efrain Pelaez, the book also expounds on “what it takes to be an effective leader who can bring about lasting change”. The theme was further discussed by guest speaker Antonio La Viña, dean of the Ateneo School of Government in Manila and Ernesto Pelaez, trustee of the Emmanuel Pelaez Foundation and son of the former vice-president.

He also disclosed that the foundation would carry on the legacy of his father by sponsoring the Emmanuel Pelaez Leadership and Campaigns Programs. In closing he thanked his cousin Efrain for heeding a call to wage reforms in Lapulapu City and carrying on a family history of public service. “The people are best served by passionate individuals who fight for their principles”, he said.

A few days later another book entitled Finding God was launched at the Power Books in SM City Cebu.

Collected and edited by Cecilia Manguerra Brainard and Marily Ysip Orosa, the 152 page book is an anthology that contains essays about people’s spiritual journeys. The 18 contributors courageously discuss and share different experiences that deal with death, sickness and even infidelity, all personal accounts that led them to seek the Almighty God and eventually finding Him.

Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, a multi- awarded author and editor of 14 books who currently teaches creative writing at the Writers Program at UCLA-Extension hopes that the book will draw the readers closer to God, having learned that He is all knowing, giving, powerful and is the King of all Kings.