Letter to the Editor - A tribute to a true Filipino

I am an American living in the Philippines for over 18 years now. Much of what I have learned regarding Philippine history and the ins and outs of Filipino politics has come from two great journalists that have just recently passed the torch to another generation. I speak, of course, of the late great Max Soliven and Teddy Benigno. True Filipinos, I think few would dispute, in the very best sense of the word and the meaning of that term.

Often I am heartbroken over the poverty, inequity, and corruption that is destroying this (potentially) great nation. I know of no journalists who "railed against the dying of the light" more than Max or Teddy. May somehow their tribe increase. May we honor their memory and their courage by insisting that this nation be all that it can and should be, especially in the time-honored values of justice, fairness, equity, and the upholding of all true Christian and true Filipino values. Let us hope and pray and believe that it is not too late.

Sir Max was someone that all Filipinos can be proud to own as one of their own. I met him on two occasions: Once in Cebu, and once in Manila. He was gracious, witty, and never condescending. He was one of a kind and from a different era ... and it showed.

Rest in Peace, Max and Teddy. You played your part and you played it well. Now the rest of us must roll up our sleeves and do our very best to walk in the path of two warriors who have gone before... and beckon us to continue that good work. They leave us a good legacy; let's try our very best to live up to it.

Sincerely, and with all condolences to his family and friends.

Pastor Len Hummel
Director
Clearlight Christian Ministries
Cebu City