Biography of Emmanuel Pelaez launched in Cebu
The authorized biography Emmanuel Pelaez, former Vice President of the Philippines, was recently launched at the popular Casa Gorordo Museum in Cebu City.
Exceptionally well-written by the much-respected political commentator and world traveler Nelson Navarro, the coffee-table book, What’s Happening to Our Country: The Life and Times of Emmanuel Pelaez, was presented to Cebuano leaders in the various fields of endeavor and life-long students of political history by the Emmanuel Pelaez Foundation in partnership with the subject’s nephew, one of Cebu’s prime movers and shakers in business Efrain Pelaez Jr.
The 340-page collector’s book is both an eye-opener of a biography and a compelling narrative woven around the Philippines’ key political figures from the time of President Elpidio Quirino up to the administration of President Corazon Aquino. It clearly defines the patriotism exhibited by the pre- President Ferdinand 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 Jr. the interesting reading illustrated by never before printed photos also expounds on “what it takes to be an effective leader who can bring about lasting change?” The ever so important theme was further discussed by guest speaker Antonio La Viña, dean of the Ateneo School of Government in Manila .
Ernesto Pelaez, trustee of the Emmanuel Pelaez Foundation and son of the erstwhile member of the Philippine Senate, Philippine Ambassador to the US and Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, disclosed that the foundation would carry on the legacy of his father by sponsoring the Emmanuel Pelaez Leadership and campaigns programs. He likewise 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 concluded.
A few days later another must read book entitled Finding God was presented to the Cebuanos at Power Books in SM City, Cebu.
Collected and edited by Cebu-born and bred and presently California-based Cecilia Manguerra-Brainard and good friend Marily Ysip-Orosa, the 152-page handy 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, illness and even infidelity, all personal accounts that led them to seek the Almighty God and eventually finding the Lord.
Brainard, a multi- awarded author and editor of 14 books and who currently teaches creative writing at the Writers Program at UCLA-Extension, sincerely hopes that the collection will draw the readers closer to God having learned that He is all knowing, and all giving.
