Hayop si ZsaZsa Zaturnah

Hayup. Nang dahil sa dulang ito, nasira ang plano kong sumali sa Palanca sa taong ito. Nang magyaya ang isang kaibigan at kaklase nung college na manood ng dulang hindi namin napanood sa CCP noong Abril, agad kong ibinigay ang excited kong “oo.” Gayundin si Anna, na kapiling ko nang mga sandaling iyon sa Starbucks habang pinagninilaynilayan niya ang dulang ipapasa ko sana sa Palanca. May hinala na kaagad ako na masisira ang plano ko para sa darating na Linggo pero dahil komo sabik akong makita kung paano maisasabuhay sa entablado ang karakter na nakilala sa komiks, bahala na.

Nagkandaloko-loko ang schedule ko kagaya ng pagkaletse-letse ng buhay ni Ada matapos niyang lunukin ang batong galing sa kalangitan na may nakasulat na Zsazsa (para makuha ang tamang pronunciation, ipitin mo ang iyong ilong). Gumulo ang buhay ni Ada, pati na rin ang pamumuhay ng buong baryo, nang dumating ang mga Amazonistas galing sa kalawakan upang sakupin ang buong kalupaan.

Pagpasok pa lang namin sa Peta Theater, kapansin-pansin na ang kabaklaan na atmospera ng teatro dulot ng kakaibang set design. Mula sa balcony ay hindi makakaligtas kanino man ang hugis phallus na stage. Ang dancing light at mga bombilya na nakasabit sa itaas ay nagdudulot ng pakiramdam na tila ika’y nasa sayawan.

At dahil nabasa ko ang komiks na gawa-gawa ni Carlo Vergara, meron na akong mga ekspektasyon na naglalaro sa utak ko habang hinihintay na magsimula ang dula. At nabasa ko rin sa isang review na kakaiba ang musika na ginamit ni Vince de Jesus para dito. Siyempre pa, nasasabik akong makita si Eula Valdez, nga lang ay hindi pa ako nakabili ng kopya ng FHM.

Pagkakita pa lang sa mga planetang iba’t-iba ang kulay na pinapaikot ng mga naka-itim na cast habang nagsasalita si Ada ay alam ko ng magiging tapat ang dula sa original na istorya nito. Minsan, sa buhay… Sa pagbukas ng ilaw, makikita sa entablado si Ada habang inaayos ang ka-alambreng buhok ni Aling Britney.

Kapanapanabik ang mga tagpo sa komiks na bilang manonood ay hindi mo alam kung paano maitatanghal sa entablado. Kagaya na lamang kung paano mahuhulog ang malaking bato mula sa kalawakan at kung paano ito lulunukin ni Ada ng BUO. Sus, eto naman, sanay ka namang sumubo ng malaki di ba?, pang-uudyok ni Didi habang kami nama’y atat nang malaman kung paano lulunukin ang kulay pink na kulubot na bato na ga-laki ng kamao. Gawa yan sa cotton candy – bulong ni Allan (kasama k0) at ako’y napa-oo nga kasabay na halakhak nang magawang lunukin ni Ada ang bato ng BUO. Gayundin ay sumigabong ang tawanan at palakpakan nang naging si Zsazsa na si Hada, este, Ada pala.

Wow. Si Eula Valdez. Nakadamit na pang-Darna. Katawang Vicky Belo. Katawang pang-FHM. at si Didi, namangha sa pag-iba ng anyo ng kanyang kaibigan at hindi makapaniwala na si Ada’y wala ng lawit at mayroon ng totoong boobs. Wow. Si Zsazsa, nakayanang bunutin ang puno. At wow, si Zsazsa, malutong magmura. At wow, si Zsazsa, mayuming bading na nahihiya kapag kaharap ang crush niya: si Dodong. Si Dodong – na kamukha ni Dodong sa komiks. Si Dodong, na maraming bukol sa katawan. Si Dodong na muntikan nang makitaan ng puwet at kaselanan ng hubaran siya ng mga mumo – na sinagip ni Didi mula sa tuluyang pagkahubad kasabay ng paghahampas sa mga mumo habang nagmumura na ano’t mauunahan pa siya ng mga ito sa pag-angkin sa katawan ni Dodong. Sa matipunong katawan ni Dodong.

Isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit excited ang kaibigan kong si Joy na manood ng Zsazsa ay dahil paborito niya si Agot Isidro. Sa kasamaang palad, hindi si Agot ang naka-schedule na magperform bilang si Femina Suarestellar Baroux kundi si Kahlila Aguiluz. Hindi namin nakilala si Kahlila sa ayos niya. Kaiba sa itsura niya noong maging guest speaker namin siya sa Production Design sa klase ni Dennis Marasigan sa opisina ng Tanghalang Pilipino.

Kasama sa mga Amozonistas si Wilma Doesnt bilang si Dina B – na sa tuwing kumakanta ay nababasag ang salamin at sinabihang lahat ng pelikula ay flop. Si Nora A. – na pagkatapos ng singing performance ay binara ni Zsazsa ng: But did you bring drugs in the airport? Si Sharon C. – na kinomentuhan ng in fairness pumayat na siya ngayon…tigilan na kasi ang Mayonnaise. At siyempre si Vilma S. – Val..Val..why is it always Val?

Sa lahat ng cast, hindi maipagkakaila na si Didi (na ginampanan ni Tuxqs) ang higit na tumngikad dahil sa galing niya sa pagpapatawa at pag-arte. Dagdag pa rito ang makikipag-interact niya sa audience kagaya ng paghalik sa isang poging manonood (na na-shock) matapos siyang mabaril at nagpapaalam kay Ada dahil nakikita na niya ang nakakasilaw na liwanag at mga machong anghel na sumusundo sa kanya.

Sa kabila ng mga tawa, magic at labanan ay ang nag-iiwan ang marka sa manonood na si Zsazsa (o si Ada) ay isa lamang mga maraming bading na patuloy ang pakikipagsapalaran sa lipunan.

At sa kabila ng pagkasira ng schedule ko at pagkabigo na makasali sa Palanca ay hindi ko pinagsisihan ang hapong iyon sa Peta Center kung saan ay naging saksi ako sa kagila-gilalas na pakikipagsaparalan ni ZsaZsa Zaturnah.

Class Reunion

I kept on cursing yesterday while lying wide-awake on my bed. I blamed my incapability to say NO to invitations. We had a class reunion at Macri’s house in Sta. Mesa. My plan was to attend and escape after midnight. But because everybody was staying, I was forced to cancel my plan. Damn! I knew what the consequence would be because of my negligence. And so I suffered. I couldn’t sleep again after waking up at 12pm. Putang-ina kasing stereo ng roommate ko. Ever After. Fuck, I could’t do anything to stop him from playing that goddamn stereo. But then, I was able to convince myself that this sacrifice was just ephemeral.

And attending our class reunion was worth it. I never enjoyed our gathering that much.

There was Irene, our class actress. She never failed to make me laugh everytime she did her antics even in her most simple way. Her laughter was contagious. She kept on doing falsetto while having a duet with Dani. I was guffawing the whole time she did that.

Of course, Dani. He is seldom absent in group gatherings. In fact, he always serves as the group’s host for its activities. His place in Krus na Ligas is our ultimate tambayan. Mysteriously enough, he can be the most hospitalable host in the whole KNL area. I reckon, how happy might he had been after knowing that somebody has offered a place for the group to hold the semi-annual reunion. As usual, we had a debate. This time was about Da Vinci. His premise was: Dan Brown abused his power as a writer to cause doubt among millions of Christians in the world. I argued by saying that Da Vinci Code is a fictional work, therefore the writer has the power to write anything he wants. Nobody won.

The last time I saw Johanna was when we chanced upon each other in Pier 8 during Christmas break last year. We didn’t have enough time to update each other’s lives in that very brief encounter. But one thing that didn’t surprise me at all was the fact that she was even more beautiful. She said she didn’t have enough sleep. If that was the case, I would assume she was not in her real state that night when all she did was laugh, laugh and laugh. And who could have not noticed her skimpy skirt that elicited attention from everyone of us. It was her who had sent me a text message that nobody stays the same forever. Cliche but true.

Macri, this year’s host, was not bothered by our presence as she was supposed to. She hasn’t changed at all. She could have informed us that her mom arrived from the province and being strict as she was (her mom), we could have had devised a new plan for our gathering or transfered to Dani’s place. But she didn’t want to upset us.

I was looking forward to seeing Reagan’s girlfriend. But he didn’t bring her along lest Dani would criticize her. Reagan and Dani. Their closeness has gone to the point of being suspicious. They shared one plate while eating. But there is nothing to be said about that. They’re friends. And Reagan has a girlfriend. But then, you cannot blame me if I suspect something about Reagan’s disturbing demeanor like kissing us – boys – although quizically.

He grew wider. Richie. Unlike before, seeing him didn’t cause tension on me. Perhaps it’s because we had settled any misunderstandings that we had in the past. I wish I’ll grow bigger like him.

And then, there’s Dindo. The German cut lad.

And Albert, too. He’s still the same. Still chubby and tongue-tied. He never joined in the conversation. He made himself contended by listening.

Analisa. A listener.

Karen and Maureen were the unexpected guests. Karen left to Manila when we were in 2nd year high school. It was sad, really especially so that we were starting to become friends. There were rumors that one of the reasons why she left Looc was because she wanted to avoid — I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said this thing. Past is past. It’s good to see her once again.

I could sense Maureen’s coldness. It’s maybe because we’re not that close to each other.

This is somewhat unbelievable but I’m looking forward to another get together. Same as last Saturday but with more people.

It would be fun.

Metaphorical Transference

A guy jumps from a ten-storey building and lands on the floor, dead. A scientist comes and concludes that the man died because his rib cage was fractured, his skull destroyed, his bones broke, his heart stopped at this time – so and so. An artist comes and concludes that the man died because his heart broke. Both observations are valid and true.

Thanks to Mr. Bart Guingona, founder and artistic director of Actors Actors. New ideas about theater were introduced. He reminds me of the bald actor who played Puneta in Tanghalang Pilipino’s “Mass”. Review says, he’s a walking dick. Guingona excudes so much knowledge and confidence. A master of his profession.

We did script analysis. Getting into the heart of the playscript through a “close” reading of the dramatic text. Mrs. Sorken and The Man Who Couldn’t Dance. The first one is a monologue about a lady who talks about theater but doesn’t know what she’s talking about. The second is about a couple who argues about their relationship.

****
Next lecture will focus on visualization and blocking. It will be conducted by Jose Estrella of Dulaang UP.

Making the Line Straight

My debut article in Romblon Sun.

Making the Line Straight
January 2, 2006

“Are you straight?” asked a high school classmate over a get-together-cum-beer-drinking-session last November when we unexpectedly had our “class reunion” in a colleague’s boarding house somewhere in Quezon City. This was the same question posed whimsically by another friend in college during our usual waiting-for-the-professor-to-arrive session. Both incidents put me in a very awkward situation. The spotlight was on me and everyone was waiting to hear my confession. Like an accused criminal, I had to defend myself so as not to be permanently etched by embarrassment.
My first reaction was to retort and give the tormentor an accusing stare which would remind him that he’s hitting below the belt. But doing so would mean one thing: that I am guilty. As much as I would want to clarify things up, there was a gnawing fear that beyond my knowledge, I was already getting a nasty reputation from friends and foes.
Instead of blurting out my paranoia-induced punch line – why the hell are you asking me that – I heaved a sigh and summoned the courage to stress my sincerest explanation in my lamest voice. “Not having a girlfriend doesn’t mean I am what you’re thinking of.” Then I went further by stating I am what you might label as non-conformist thinker or anti-social, someone who doesn’t live to the expectation of other people and by the norm imposed by an unjust society where everything has a category. A chorus of “woo” followed and sweat of uneasiness hinted to pour from my temple.
This incident brings me to an inquiry: Do I really have to prove to them that I’m straight? What does “straight” mean, by the way? Webster tells me it’s “extending continuously in the same direction without curving” and something that is “not crooked.” Fine. I admit, I don’t walk straight. Somebody has told me I have a bad posture. I slouch when I sit. Of course, this kind of association, you might say, is somewhat out of context when it is used to mean something else. Especially when it connotes gender.
But come to think of it. A married man, who once engaged in adultery, can be asked with the same question but elicit no offense. “Pare, straight na ‘ko,” would be the meek response, which is tantamount to saying “Normal na ‘ko.”
The tormentor’s question perhaps stems from a common, but nonetheless misconstrued, observation that I, being a male who’s disengaged from boys-related activities like basketball, butt-spotting and porno-watching among others, am abnormal. This observation does not come as a surprise to me. I’m aware that some people I know carry such impression towards me but being a non-conformist myself, I am not affected by the accusations hurled behind my back, for I am confident of my sexuality.
To answer my friend’s query would require a whole night and more beers for which he would surely repel. For the very least, I suggest he goes through my education background and discover himself how was it possible for an ordinary individual to be able to finish college with flying colors. In this aspect, I have been true to the meaning of the word “straight.”
As much as I hate to say this, he is my inspiration for writing this down. Why in hell should I be labeled as the non-straight individual when in fact he should be there? Never in my life have I gone astray; never bartered my studies with peers and vices, thus in a normal period of time, I was able to graduate with the desired course from the country’s most prestigious university. To study in a university like UP is no mean feat considering the fact that my family could hardly support me financially.
It is disappointing to note that some people tend to judge a person through his physical appearance or through the way he acts. This usually boils down to one thing: in a soceity where everything is labeled, nobody is exempted.
If I would be asked the same question again, I would answer it with a big YES.

Published in Romblon Sun

A Teaching Dream

A Teaching Dream
January 18, 2006

I have always wanted to be a teacher. Back in my childhood years, I already had the makings of a teacher. As far as I can recall, I would invite every child from the neighborhood to join the “school” I had formed myself. The makeshift school was strategically located under the shield of a big mango tree at the back of our house. It didn’t have a blackboard but I provided each of my students with a piece of banana leaf which served as the paper and a stick – stolen from my ate’s broom – as the pen. The class was composed of at least three to five pupils of who were still illiterate. As soon as I banged the bell – yes, we even had one! – I would transform into a stern, authoritative teacher with an old notebook in my hand. Nobody would dare make a noise for I would surely expel him/her from the class or receive no ribbon at all.
When old folks asked me what I wanted to be when I grow up, I would instantly answer, “Teacher po.” Every relative was hopeful that somebody in the clan would become a teacher someday. I was too loyal to that ambition I did not even consider other possible professions.
Fast forward. Manila, circa ’05. I have just finished college. After graduation, I immediately applied in several companies in Makati. I wanted very much to work in a multinational firm. The experience to be gained along with the hefty salary it brought desperately compelled me to work there. Two months have passed — I was still waiting in vain. I would sometimes find myself sulking in my bed, cursing for the sad fate I was having. Shallow as it may seem, but there came a point when I almost ended my desperation by cutting my wrist. The thought of putting myself in the tabloid gave me the creep so I ended up throwing the razor blade away and wailed silently.
Right from the start, I always get what I want so the frustration of not getting a job plus the expectations of other people really pushed me to the edge. Luckily, I didn’t fall off. A constant self-reminder that luck would soon find me was a helpful tactic for not giving up.
At last, I landed in a multinational company that edits legal transcripts from the US. Although my education wasn’t really in line with the job, I still accepted it. Better have it than stay a bummer for the rest of my life. You see, even a UP graduate finds it hard to get a job! After hurdling the two-month long training, I was as expectant as everyone else in the office to get regularized after six months. But a better opportunity came along. I decided to resign before the onset of 2006.
During the exit interview, I was summoned by the president to his office. He investigated the reason for leaving the company. As much as I wanted to be transparent, I didn’t want to offend him by telling that the company wasn’t giving me the compensation I deserve. Right, I’m thankful to the company for the knowledge and experience it’s giving me but hey, I have an obligation to support my family. With the measly salary I was getting, I could hardly buy my personal needs. Not even a cell phone! I have already accepted a position in another company so it was quite a futile attempt to dissuade me from leaving.
Few days after my resignation, actually on my way home to the province, an officemate happily informed me she would be a full-time teacher come June. The news seemed to bring back an old, familiar ambition which has been shrouded by loftier dreams. Deep inside me, I could still feel that ambition throbbing. While waiting for my officemate’s reply at the top of M/V Virgin Mary, I started contemplating for the possibility of taking a detour in my career path. What if I apply for a teaching position at Romblon State College? What if I pursue my plan of conducting a research while teaching there? So many what-ifs came to mind. The supposed vacation was not as restful as I imagined it to be. I was bugged by the thought of not coming back to Manila and serve my province instead, through teaching.
When I brought the issue to my sister – who at the same time, my mother – she gave me a puzzled look and probed, “Bakit?” as if, judging from her facial _expression; she detested the idea so much. My other elder sister even asked if I was not feeling well. You see, almost everybody regarded that idea a pathetic one. For why should I choose to sleep on the floor when I’m given the opportunity to lie in the bed – an elegant one! But then, I am as idealistic as a fresh grad can be. My education in UP motivated me to serve my fellow kababayan.
Present time. 28th floor, Philam building, Makati. I am now a research analyst in an international company, loaded with research materials to work on, having a free coffee from time to time and still manage to chat with a friend online. An hour ago, I read my officemate’s e-mail. She was already notified of her position by the university. I replied by saying I have the same plans as hers, but not now.
Not yet.
I did not choose to work in the corporate world because my passion for teaching has faded or because I want to be rich much more than I want to be a teacher. For now, I choose this career because I need to build myself a stable future. It is tough especially when your heart burns with idealism but your mind dictates otherwise.
I still want to be a teacher. I’m still hopeful to make my childhood dream a reality.
As much as I could, I will hold on to my promise to return and serve my province as long as the passion to teach is there. I will try, yes, I will try not to be blinded by the opportunities that will come my way.
I make this promise not in the same way a politician does.
Welcome me someday, my dear Romblon, for I will be home again to serve you.

Published in Romblon Sun

Valentine, So What?

Valentine, So What?
February 3, 2006

You might have sensed it. My bitterness. Wency Cornejo’s “Habang May Buhay” is currently playing on the stereo. Friends repeatedly ask me what am I gonna do on the 14th. Some pals suggest I should attend lovapalooza at Roxas Boulevard. John Lloyd-Bea-Sam’s theatrical trailer constantly reminds me of the special occasion lovers have this month. You’re playing dumb if you don’t know what it is. Although the whole Metro Manila is not painted red nor everyone wears clothes with heart motif, the air is almost filled with love. And this makes me sick.

You might say, go and get a girlfriend to celebrate Valentine. I would say, I’m used to celebrating Valentine’s alone. You might think, poor guy. I proudly say, I’m lucky.
Why? Because I don’t have to spend a penny to buy bouquet of roses to responsibly express my love to my other half. Shallow reason? Not at all. I just don’t feel it. Besides, I’m a self-proclaimed cynic — when it comes to love. So never give me lines like “You complete me,” “I will offer you the sun and the moon” and other mushy love quotes.

Rejection does that to you. I call it puppy love. That feeling usually comes during the early stage of adolescence. You admire someone who’s a member of the opposite sex. Maybe because you like her eyes or maybe because you love the way she laughs or struts, or it could be simply because she reminds you of your cute puppy who died few days ago. Mine occurred when I was in high school. First year, to be exact. She’s not that beautiful. Her simplicity struck me at the first sight. I can still remember how I reacted every time she glanced my way. As if on cue, I looked elsewhere and pretended I didn’t see her. But the feeling of infatuation was ephemeral. It only lasted for a while. Or because I really never tried to voice out my feelings for her. Well, you can’t expect that for a guy who’s never vocal with his emotion. Oh, did I say rejection made me cynical? No, not really. You see, I was not actually rejected by my first crush. A simple attention from her would have been enough to sustain my infatuation. Then came one day when I had to convince myself “we’re not really meant to be together.” She admired somebody else. I didn’t cry, of course. I just burned the letters I planned to give her while writing the name of her crush on a piece of paper. I planned to send that paper out to an albularyo to have the guy’s butt itch like hell.

Mean.

But love can be like that, they say. You do sacrifices just to win the heart of somebody you love. You can be very selfish and insensitive. Well, cannot comment on that. I have never been in love. Ask me what it feels when you receive a text message that proclaims love, I can hardly give you an answer. But ironically, I can be a ‘love adviser’ to friends who usually find solace in my company every time their hearts break. Mysteriously, my advices are often regarded as that of a psychologist’s. Joe D’ Mango in the making? Think again. I’m no better than a painter who teaches medicine. But you know that a fire is hot even if you don’t touch the flame. Still – lovers would say you can never get the real feeling of being in love not unless you have been into it. Sure. But don’t suggest I should go fall in love.

Nah. I am no candidate for Bachelor For Life. Not just ready to commit in a long-term relationship. Yet. If you ask me until when will I celebrate Valentine’s Day alone, I’m not certain still. Perhaps, Cupid has no plans of aiming his arrow to my contemptuous heart.

So February 14 is a special day to celebrate love. A greeting to family and dear friends would be enough to express my love to them. Watching “Close to You” would also be a nice alternative to celebrate it.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a date on the 14th. You’re not alone. If you want, we can organize a party. Let’s call it “I-decide-to-remain-single” event. Interesting, is it not?

Published in Romblon Sun

Kung Pa’no Masiraan ng Bait

Unang subok ko sa ‘pamumulitika.’

Kung Paano Masiraan ng Bait
March 2006

Subukan mong isipin ito: inutusan kang buhatin ang mga bato nang isa-isa at ilipat sa isang lugar; at kapag nailipat na ang lahat ng bato, kukunin mong isa-isa at ililipat pabalik. Gagawin mo iyon maghapon sa ilalim ng sikat ng araw. Mayroon ka din namang pahinga kada tatlong oras. Kapag tumunog ang senyal, titigil ka sa paglilipat at tatayo nang tuwid – hindi gagalaw, sa loob ng tatlong minuto. Ano sa palagay mo ang mangyayari sa ‘yo pagkatapos ng isang buwan?
Tama. Dadalhin ka sa mental hospital. Magsasalita ka ng walang kausap. Pero sina Horst at Max, nakayanan nila sa loob ng tatlong buwan. Lipat ng bato araw-araw. Pahinga ng tatlong minuto. Sa ilalim ng sikat ng araw. Isipin mo pa lang, nakakabaliw na. Kung ikaw ang nasa lugar nilang dalawa, hindi malayong masiraan ka ng bait.
Isa lamang sina Horst at Max sa libo-libong kalalakihan na nagdusa sa kamay ng mga Nazi sa concentration camp. Matagal na panahon na iyon. Bago pa sumapit ang World War II. Pero muling naisabuhay ang nakakahabag na kalagayan sa Berlin, kapanahunan ni Hitler, ng mga estudyanteng magsisipagtapos sa Philippine High School for the Arts.
Una kong natunghayan ang pagtatanghal ng nasabing paaralan noong 2004 para sa dulang “R’meo luvs Dew-lhiet” na hango sa klasikong romansa ni Shakespeare. Tungkol sa jologs na pag-iibigan ng mga kabataan na nauwi sa trahedya. Si Juliet ay nagmumura at malakas manigarilyo si Romeo! Bukod sa bulgar pero nakakaaliw na diyalogo, kahanga-hanga ang husay sa pag-arte ng mga estudyanteng nagsiganap. Noong nakaraang taon, sa pamamagitan ng aking propesor na marketing director sa CCP, nalaman ko na magkakaroon ulit ng pagtatanghal ang nasabing paaralan. Isang pagkakataon na hindi ko pinalampas. Muli ay humanga ako sa kanilang galing. At sa ikatlong pagkakataon, sumaludo ako sa pagtatanghal nila para sa taong ito. “Kung Pa’no Masiraan ng Bait.” Koleksyon ng mga dulang tumatalakay sa kabaliwan ng lipunan – isang probinsyanang titser na pumunta sa Maynila upang asikasuhin ang kanyang promosyon na nakasumpong ng kabiguan; Filipino immigrant sa US na hindi kinilala ng kapwa Pilipino; aswang na na-inlove sa normal na tao; babaeng gustong makitawag na napagkamalang baliw; at dalawang estrangherong nakulong sa concentration camp. Sa pamamagitan ng hindi matawarang husay nga mga nagsiganap; mainam na paggamit ng ilaw at mahusay na disenyo ng entablado, matagumpay na nailahad ng dula ang nais nitong iparating sa manonood.
Imposibleng hindi ka sampalin ng realisasyon o batukan ng kamalayan kapag napanood mo ang dula. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit sa lahat ng uri ng sining – literatura, pelikula, arkitektura, sayaw, sining biswal, at teatro – teatro ang pinakagusto ko. Naimumulat kasi nito ang manonood sa mga kaganapan sa lipunan: opresyon, hindi pagkakapantay-pantay at iba pang katiwaliang nangyayari. Nakalulungkot nga lang isipin na kaunti lamang ang tumatangkilik sa uring ito ng sining. Sa CCP, kapansin-pansin na ang mga manonood ay kinabibilangan ng mga elitista, art patrons, educators at yaong mga may pagpapahalaga sa sining. Kung dagsaan man ang nanonood para sa isang pagtatanghal asahan mong sila’y mga estudyante na ni-required upang manood. Mas pipiliin ng ordinaryong tao na manood ng sine kaysa manood ng dula. Kunsabagay, mas mura ang sine kumpara sa dula na nagkakahalaga mula P200 hanggang P400. Gayunpaman, balewala ang pera sa hindi pangkaraniwang karanasang naidudulot ng teatro. Walang depinisyon ang pakiramdam habang kampante kang nakaupo’t nakatuon ang atensyon sa entablado.
Isa ang teatro sa mga pinakamatandang uri ng sining na ang kasaysayan ay matutunton pa sa kapanahunang ng Griyego. Ang mga dula nina Aristophanes, Sophocles, Euripides at Aeschylus ay buhay pa hanggang ngayon. Paulit-ulit na tinatanghal ang mga dakilang gawa nina Shakespeare, Homer, Dante, Hugo at marami pang iba. Sa teatro’y malayang naipapahayag ang mga subersibong ideya na kung isasapelikula ay puwedeng ipagbawal ng pamahalaan. Sa teatro’y walang daya, lahat ng nakikita ay totoo, walang camera trick. Sa teatro’y hindi puwedeng sumigaw ng “Cut!” ang mga ‘natamaan’ ng liberal na pagtatanghal. Sa teatro’y maaaring kalabanin ang mga inutil na pulitiko sa paraang nakakaaliw. Puwede silang murahin ng mga kasali sa dula. Dahil ang teatro – lalo na kapag ipinalabas sa mga sentrong kultural at institusyon – ay hindi sakop ng banning.
Noong isang lingo, pagkatapos mapanood ang dula, na-inspire ako na gumawa ng sarili kong dula. At nakagawa ako. Naipabasa ko na iyon sa mga kaibigan ko at naibigay na nila ang komentong nais marinig ng manunulat. Pero hangga’t hindi pa naitatanghal ang dula, hindi pa buo ang papel na ginagampanan nito. Kung mabibigyan ng pagkakataon, balak kong itanghal ang dula sa lalawigang ito.
Ano kaya ang magiging reaksyon ng mga kababayan ko kapag narinig nila ang linyang katulad nito: “Kilala tayo sa marmol pero tingnan mo, wala tayong istrukturang gawa sa marmol. Hindi tayo nakikinabang ng sarili nating produkto. Wala tayong sariling identidad. Walang kultura.”
Huwag, mga kababayan ko, huwag husgahan ang linyang nasa itaas sapagkat bahagi lamang iyan ng isang kabuuan. Hindi mo masasabi kung gaano kalaki ang yelo kung ang nakikita mo lamang ay ang bahaging nakalitaw sa ibabaw ng tubig. Isang kaibigan at kababayang mula sa UP ang nagtanong (pagkatapos basahin ang dula ko) kung sino ang dapat sisihin sa kalagayan ng probinsya natin.
Alam niyo kung sino, tiyak ako doon. Ang hindi ko lang tiyak ay kung ano ang magiging reaksyon ng mga taong dapat sisihin sa pagkalugmok ng lalawigang ito kapag may naglakas-loob na isiwalat ang katiwaliang nangyayari rito sa pamamagitan ng teatro. Kapag may pumutak, may nagalit, may nagmura; matagumpay na naisagawa ng teatro ang pangunahing papel nito – ang magpakita ng realidad.
Subukan mong isipin ito: malaki ang magagawa ng teatro sa pagsalba ng lalawigang ito.
Umuunlad ang Romblon – huwag mong isipin na totoo ito baka masiraan ka ng ulo.

Published in Romblon Sun

Ang Daan Papuntang Looc

Isang artikulong pinag-isipan kong maigi kong dapat ko bang isumite sa provincial newspaper namin. Naisip ko kasi na baka magalit ang mga pinuno ng bayan ko dahil sa gusto kong puntuhin pero sa bandang huli’y naisip ko na may karapatan akong magsabi ng niloloob ko.

Ang Daan Patungong Looc
April 11, 2006

Isang kaibigan ang nagbiro kung kailan ko daw balak na siya’y imbitahan upang magbakasyon sa probinsya ko. Pabiro ko rin siyang sinagot na, “Saka na, kapag maayos na ang daan papunta sa amin.” Idinagdag ko na baka pagsisihan niya lamang ang araw na nanatili siya sa lalawigan kinalakhan ko. Hindi ko matatanggap na mag-iiwan sa kanya ng negatibong impresyon ang pagdalaw niya sa lupang tinubuan ko.
Hindi. Hindi ko ikinakahiya ang lalawigang ito. Hindi lang talaga ako handa sa magiging reaksyon ng simumang ipapasyal ko rito. Isa pa, kung magdadala ako ng bisita rito, saan ko naman siya maaaring ipasyal? Wala akong alam na beach na may magandang buhanginan o pasyalan na puwede niyang hangaan. Walang piyestang nakakaengganyong daluhan o tradisyong nakakaaliw kuhanan ng larawan.
Sayang. Hindi niya masasaksihan ang daang gawa sa marmol. O bahay na yari sa marmol. Kung mayroon man. Ang kaso, wala. At wala akong maisip na puwedeng ipagmalaki sa kanya. Maliban na lang siguro sa magiliw na pagtanggap ng mga kababayan kong handang magdulot ng pinakamainam na pakikitungo sa kapwa. Bukod diyan, wala na akong puwedeng maipagmalaki.
Nakakalungkot pero totoo. At marahil hindi lamang ako ang nakakaramdam ng ganitong klaseng pagkabahala. Reality bites, ‘ika nga. Masakit tanggapin. Nakakakulo ng dugo. Ang mas nakakalungkot, wala akong magawa upang mapabuti ang sitwasyon – sa ngayon.
Sa isang banda, hindi naman masamang maipagmalaki ang lalawigang ito. Dahil dito ipinanganak ang National Artist for Literature na si N.V.M. Gonzales bago lumipat ang pamilya nila sa Mindoro; ang political figure na si Roilo Golez; ang manunulat na si Butch Dalisay, Jr. at marami pang iba na nagtagumpay sa pinili nilang larangan.
Gayundin, sa lalawigang ito – sa isla ng Banton – natagpuan ang pinakamatandang tela sa buong Pilipinas na ngayon ay naka-display sa isang museum sa Estados Unidos. Maaari ring ipagmalaki sa lahat na sa probinsyang ito’y dalisay ang hangin, malinis ang dagat, sariwa ang pagkain at simpatiko ang mga tao. Na dito’y malakas ang signal ng Smart at Globe; na may channel ng MTV at HBO; na maraming souvenirs na maaaring pagpilian – hugis kalapating marmol, hugis pusong marmol, key chain na marmol, almires na marmol, kung ano-ano pang anik-anik na marmol.
At kung tutuusin, mainam ang heograpikal na kinalalagyan ng probinsya ng Romblon. Hindi madalas daanan ng bagyo. Sa katunaya’y nagiging taguan ng mga barko tuwing may bagyo. Nasa pinagitnang bahagi ng Pilipinas. Nasa pinakapuso ng mapa ng bansa. Malapit sa Boracay. Ilang oras lamang ang biyahe patungong Mindoro.
Dito’y wala ring NPA. Kapag piyesta’y nagpapatalbugan ang mga reyna at grandiyoso ang fireworks display – lalo na kapag eleksyon.
Mga mainam na dahilan upang ipagmalaki ang probinsyang ito.
Pero hindi ko pa rin iimbitahan ang kaibigan kong gustong magbakasyon dito. Saka na lang, kapag tuluyan nang naayos ang daan patungo sa bayan namin. Sa ngayon, pasasalubungan ko na lang muna siya ng marmol.

To be published in Romblon Sun

Ama Namin

Isa pa sa mga dulang hindi ko matapos-tapos.

AMA NAMIN

Sa isang waiting shed. Gabi. May mangilan-ngilang taong dumaraan.
Nakaupo sa isang sulok si Dong, 23 years old, naka-t-shirt at jeans, naninigarilyo. May tatambay na isang matandang lalaki, mag-aabang ng sasakyan.

Tutunog ang cellphone ni Dong. Kukunin niya iyon at babasahin ang mensaheng dumating. Mapapailing.

DONG
(Sa lalaki) Manong, anong oras na po.

Itataas ng mama ang braso. Lalapit si Dong at titingnan ang relo ng mama.

DONG
Hindi ho ba advance ‘yang relo niyo, Manong?

Iiling ang lalaki.

DONG
O baka naman po late. Ng 10 minutes o kaya ng five minutes.

Naiiritang titingnan ng lalaki si Dong.

DONG
Matatagalan ho kasi ‘yong hinihintay ko eh. Matrapik daw kasi sa Quezon Ave. kunsabagay, Biyernes nga ngayon kaya medyo matrapik. Ako din, nung minsang pumunta ako sa Philcoa, halos dalawang oras akong na-stuck sa sinasakyan kong dyip sa España. Wala naman akong magawa kundi hintayin ang mabagal na pag-usad ng mga sasakyan. Kahit matagal, kahit nagmamadali ako. Pagdating ko sa Philcoa, wala na’ng naghihintay sa ‘kin. Bumalik na lang ako. Nakakaloko pero pag-uwi ko, wala ng trapik, ang bilis kong nakarating sa bahay.
(Itatapon ang upos ng sigarilyo. Dudukot ng sigarilyo sa bulsa. Aalukin ang lalaki.)
Kayo po?

Iiling ang lalaki.

DONG
Mabuti ho’t tumanggi kayo. Nag-iisa na lang pala ‘to. (Kakapa sa bulsa.)
Tanga. Wala pala akong dalang lighter. (May hahanapin)
Meron po ba kayong posporo o lighter?

Iiling ang lalaki.

DONG
Wala po bang nagtitinda ng sigarilyo dito?

Magkikibit-balikat ang lalaki.

DONG
Napansin ko nga po. (Mapapangiti)
(Mapapansin ang itinapong upos ng sigarilyo. Pupulutin)
Baka puwede pa. (Sisindihan ang sigarilyo gamit ang upos.)
Tsamba. Ayos.
(Itatapon ang upos at aapakan.)
Siguro kung kasama ko erpat ko, ‘di niya ‘ko papayagang gawin ‘yun. Siyempre, di ko rin naman siguro gagawin ‘yun kung andito siya. O kung ginawa ko man siguro, sesermunan niya ako. Pagagalitan. Ipapaliwanag niya sa ‘kin kung bakit mali ang ginawa ko at kung paano siya naging tama. Makikinig lang ako. Hindi ako kikibo. Itatapon ko ‘tong sigarilyo at aakbayan niya ‘ko.
“Dong, alam mong masama, ba’t mo pa ginagawa? Gusto mo bang magaya sa ‘kin?”
Iiling ako. Mapapangiti siya. Sasabihan na naman niya ako ng ‘mabait na bata.’
(Iiling at mapapangiti)
Parang bata, di po ba? Yung batang supot pa. Yung batang kailangang gabayan ng magulang at kailangang turuan kung ano ang tama. Nakakahiya mang aminin pero ako yun. Pero hindi po ako supot. Nakakahiya po yun di ba? Me bulbol ka na, supot ka pa. bago pa man ako tinubuan ng bulbol, pinatuli na ‘ko ni erpat.
“Nak, ‘lika nga dito.”
“Bakit po, Dad?”
“Hubarin mo’ng shorts mo.”
“Po?”
“Sabi ko, hubarin mo’ng shorts mo. Me titingnan lan ako.”
Hindi ako makatanggi sa kanya. Tingin niya pa lang, nangangaluntoy na’ng junior ko. Eh wala naming tao sa bahay namin nung oras na ‘yun kaya binaba ko shorts ko. Tiningnan niya. Hinawakan. Parang doktor na nag-i-inspeksyon kung me problema ang bahaging iyon ng katawan ko. Sinukat sa pamamagitan ng kanyang hintuturo.
“Puwede na. bukas, punta tayo kay Dr. Bacalla.”
“Bakit po, me sakit po ba ako, Dad?”
“Wala. Ipapatuli kita.”
Kumunot nook o.
“Umupo ka dito sa tabi ko. Dong, lalaki ka. Lalaki ka kagaya ko. Alam mo ba ang pagkakaiba natin sa babae?”
Umiling ako. Hindi ko talaga alam kung ano’ng kaibahan. Ang natatandaan kong itinuro ng teacher ko sa science class, yung sperm cell daw galing sa male species ay lumalangoy papuntang eggcells tapos mabubuo yung baby. Ganun kasimple.
“Yung mga babae, meron silang dede, tayo wala. Meron silang vagina, wala tayo pero meron tayong penis. Yung penis natin, kailangang operahan para pumogi para di dyahe sa girls kapag nag-aano na.”
Hindi ko pa rin maintindihan. Pero di ako bobo. Honor student ako mula kindergarten hanggang highschool.

Pentalogo

Eto pa.

PENTALOGUE

Characters:
ANDOY – Poet, writer. Problematic ang buhay pag-ibig.
MARCO – May colo-rectal cancer. Umaasenso sa career.
TONY – Happy-go-lucky. Promiscuous. Mayaman.
LLOYD – May pamilya. Naghihikahos.
BRIX – Doktor na naging nurse. Pupuntang States.

Unang Tagpo
Sa isang bar sa Malate. Gabi.
Nasa kalagitnaan na ng inuman.

TONY
Di ba nga, hindi niya tayo pinansin kinabukasan dahil pinagalitan siya ng dad niya?

MARCO
Eh sino ba namang tarantado ang naglagay ng tamod dun sa magazine?

BRIX
Anong nilagay? Pare, aksidente ‘yun.

TONY
Aha defensive ka. Baka naman ikaw ang naglagay.

BRIX
Pare, kilala niyo ‘ko. Malibog ako’t tarantado pero di ako sinungaling.

MARCO
Yun na nga eh. Masyado kang malibog kaya’t hindi kataka-takang ikaw ang salarin.

TONY
At sino naman kaya ang gagawa nun bukod sa ‘yo?
(Kay Marco) Pero pare, malakas talaga hinala ko na si Brix yun.

MARCO
I agree.

BRIX
Bakit ako?

TONY
Bakit hindi? Sino nga ulit yung pasaway na binatilyong nag-introduce sa ‘tin ng 8th wonder of the world?

LLOYD
8th wonder? Ba’t di ko alam ‘yon?

TONY
Pare, matanda ka na nga. Sige para i-refresh ang iyong lumalabong memorya, 8th wonder of the world ang taguri natin sa contours sa legs ni Ms. Echague na madalas sinisilipan ng wonder boy natin, na dahil sa kabutihang loob niya ay walang pag-aalinlangang shinare sa ‘tin.

MARCO
Bravo Brix. Bravo! Teka, yun din ba ang dahilan kung bakit laging nawawala si Brix sa klase only to find out na nandun lang pala sa CR at gumagawa ng tiyanak?

TONY
Mismo! See? Kaya’t hindi niyo ko masisisi kung lalong tumibay ang paniniwala ko na si Brix “the wonder boy” ang naglagay ng tamod dun sa magazine.

BRIX
Nonsense. Yan ang tinatawag na a priori statement. Pagbibintang na walang basehan.

TONY
Okay, guys, raise your hand kung sumasang-ayon kayo na hindi niya tamod ang nasa centerfold ng Penthouse magazine.

MARCO
Na pinuslit pa ni Matthew sa cabinet ng dad niya.

Magkakatinginan ang lahat, maliban kay Andoy.
Magtataas ng kamay si Andoy.
Mapapangiti si Brix. Maba-bad trip si Tony.

TONY
(Kay Andoy) Pare, you really believe he was innocent?

ANDOY
(Sa waiter) Beer pa, please.

TONY
(Mapapahiya) See, I told you.

BRIX
Oo na. Panalo na naman kayo. Hindi kailanman mananalo ang isa sa apat. Imposible. Majority wins. Always.

MARCO
Awat na. Baka may umiyak na naman mamaya. Mahirap pa namang patahanin yan.

LLOYD
Hindi nga. Umiiyak pala si Brix pag nalalasing?

MARCO
Uhuh. At kung anu-ano ang lumalabas sa bibig niya. Bukod dun sa suka ha. Sinasabi ko sa ‘yo pare, mga mababahong lihim. Kaya ‘yang si Brix wala ng maililihim pa sa ‘kin.

Tawanan.

TONY
(Kay Brix) Nakailang beer ka na?

BRIX
Di pa nangangalahati sa maximum.

Sasabad si Andoy sa usapan.

ANDOY
(Kay Brix) Anong oras flight mo bukas?

Magiging seryoso ang apat. Magkakatinginan.

BRIX
(Kay Tony) Bakit mo tinatanong?

Halatang mapipikon si Andoy sa di pagsagot ni Brix sa tanong niya.

TONY
Mahirap na. Baka magsuka ka na naman sa kotse ko. Yuck. (Kikiligin sa pandiriri) Baho pa naman ng suka mo.

BRIX
Ha’mo, magta-taxi ako pauwi kaya safe ang kotse mo ngayong gabi. Tsaka kung gusto mo, ngayon pa lang, quit na ‘ko. Madali akong kausap.

LLOYD
(Kukuha ng beer at itatapat sa puwesto ni Brix) Sa ‘kin ka na lang sumabay.

MARCO
Uy, interesadong malaman kung ano ang lumalabas sa bibig ni Brix kapag nalalasing nang husto. I tell you, pare, marami kang madidiskubre.

BRIX
Ulol.

TONY
Lloyd, seryoso ka? Kelan ka pa nagka-kotse?

LLOYD
Actually, kanina lang. Pinasa na ni erpat sa ‘kin. Nagsawa na kasi siya sa pagmamaneho. Di naman kailangan ng paborito niyang anak tsaka di magta-tiyaga ang utol ko sa ganung uri ng kotse kaya sa ‘kin napunta.

TONYMe pambili ka naman ba ng gas? Baka mamaya, kalawangin lang ang makina niyan sa garahe niyo. Masasayang lang.

LLOYD
Ha’mo, benta ko sa ‘yo pag tumaas ulit ang gasolina’t di ko na makayanang bumili. Mura lang ‘yon. ‘Ala pang isang daang libo. Tsaka ano ba naman sa ‘yo ‘yung isandaang libo. Barya lang yan.

MARCO
Ano ka ba, Tony. Huwag mo ngang ipamukha sa kanya na pulubi siya’t mayaman ka. (Kay Lloyd) Tsaka pare, don’t think na magkakainteres si Tony sa kotse mo, Lloyd.

Tawanan. Tatayo si Andoy. Tatahimik ang grupo.

ANDOY
CR lang ako.

Pagkaalis ni Andoy.

MARCO
Anong problema nun?

TONY
Baka masyadong na-carried away sa nobelang sinusulat niya. Parang hindi na kayo nasanay.

MARCO
Baka nalulungkot dahil aalis ka, Brix.

Katahimikan.

TONY
Pero sa totoo lang (Yayakapin si Brix at hahalikan sa pisngi) mami-miss kita.

BRIX
(Mabibigla at magkukunwang nandidiri) Yuck. That was disgusting. (Pupunasan ang pisnging hinalikan ni Tony) Sabi ko na nga ba eh. Me gusto ka sa ‘kin. Aminin mo na, pare. Tutal naman aalis na rin ako.

TONY
Tarantado! Kung papatol man ako sa lalaki, sisiguraduhin kong hindi sa ‘yo. (Magbabakla-baklaan) Kung ikaw din lang, di bale na. Tse.

Tawanan.

MARCO
Ulitin mo nga, pare.

TONY Ang alin?

MARCO
Yung pag-tse mo.

TONY
Hindi na. Wala ng take-two.

BRIX
Pero si Sonia, kahit alam mong niloko ka, binalikan mo pa rin. Bakit ‘kamo? Kasi you were hoping na maaayos ang relasyon niyo. Ngayon, ang tanong, me nangyari ba?

TONY
Out of context na yang banat mo. Malayo na sa usapan.

Darating si Andoy. Katahimikan.
Magri-ring ang cellphone ni Marco.

MARCO
(Sa barkada) Excuse me.
Yes. O. Andito, with friends. No. Okay lang ako, really. Sure. Never. Don’t worry. These guys are harmless. Sure. Okay. Adios. I love you.

BRIX
Bago na naman yon, ha, Marc? Wow, chick boy.

TONY
Right. Chick boy talaga ‘yan. Puwede sa chick, puwede sa boy.

Tawanan.

MARCO
Pa’no mo nahulaan, pare? Don’t tell me chick boy ka rin.

Tawanan ulit.

TONY
Gusto mong malaman? Tara sa CR. One time lang.

Magugulat ang lahat. Seryosong titingnan ni Tony si Marco. Mako-conscious naman ang huli.

TONY
Wanna come?

Susulsulan ni Brix si Marco.

BRIX
Grab this rare opportunity, pare. Ipakita mo kung ano ka talaga.

Medyo makakabawi si Marco sa tensyon.

MARCO
(Kay Brix) Eh kung ikaw kaya, tutal naman nabanggit mo sa ‘kin before that you’re willing to be sucked by a guy.

BRIX
Ay laglagan na ‘to.

ANDOY
(Sa isang mahinanong boses) Tang-ina. Magsitigil kayo.

LLOYD
Ayan, napagalitan tuloy kayo.

MARCO
Sorry. Tao lang.

ANDOY
(Kay Brix) Ilang taon kontrata mo sa ‘Tate?

BRIX
Tatlo pero depende pa rin ‘yon sa ‘kin. Kung sakaling magustuhan ko, puwede kong i-extend. I can even apply for residency after two years time. Sabi ni utol, ipitesyon ko daw siya.

LLOYD
Three years, ang tagal nun. Sulat ka pare ha. O tumawag ka paminsan-minsan. Tsaka kung sinumpong ka ng kabaitan, padalhan mo rin kami ng State products.

MARCO
(Kay Brix) Ops, bago ko makalimutan, you ought to give me something.

BRIX
Ano yun?

MARCO
‘Yung keepsake na hinihingi ko sa ‘yo. Yung pinangako mong ibibigay.

BRIX
(Mag-iisip) Shit, I forgot, pare.

LLOYD
Hmm. Ano yang keepsake yan?

MARCO
Sa ‘min na lang ‘yon.

TONY
Hmm.. I feel something fishy.

MARCO
Nadale mo. Fishy talaga.

LLOYD
Share niyo naman. Ang lagay ba eh siya lang ang bibigyan mo ng keepsake, Brix.
Unfair ‘yun.

TONY
Hulaan ko kung ano ‘yang keepsake na ‘yan.

MARCO
You’ll never guess it.

TONY
‘Pag nahulaan ko, CR tayo.

MARCO
(Magba-bad finger sign kay Tony)

LLOYD
Awat na. Baka mamaya kung saan pa pupunta ‘yang away niyong ‘yan.

TONY
Marco and I never quarrel. Di ba, pare?

Tatango nang may pag-alinlangan si Marco.

BRIX
Oh, shit. Muntik ko nang makalimutan. Pupunta pa pala ako sa Fairview.

ANDOY
Alas onse pa lang.

BRIX
Ten ang usapan namin ni Tita. And seriously, di pa ‘ko nakakapag-empake.

TONY
So are you excusing yourself now?

BRIX
Wala akong choice. 7 am flight ko tomorrow. Kailangang nasa airport na ‘ko by 5.

ANDOY
If that’s the case, kailangan mo nang umalis.

TONY
I have this feeling na nag-a-alibi lang ang wonder boy natin. What do you think, guys, papakawalan ba natin siya?

BRIX
You have to.

TONY
Pa’no kung hindi kami pumayag?

BRIXIkaw lang ang hindi papayag.

TONY
Ows? Guys, ang lagay ba eh hahayaan lang natin ‘tong mokong na ‘to na umalis basta-basta?

MARCO
Hindi puwede.

LLOYD
(Magkikibti-balikat)

Titingin si Tony kay Andoy.
Iiling lamang si Andoy.

TONY
Pa’no ba ‘yan? Every body here doesn’t want to let you go.

BRIX
I insist. I really have to go. Naghihintay sa kin si Auntie.

Tatawagin ni Tony ang waiter. May ibubulong dito. Tatango ang waiter. Mapapangiti si Tony. Aalis ang waiter.
Tutunggain ni Brix ang laman ng beer, tatayo. Pero pipigilan siya ni Tony.

TONY
We have a surprise for you.

BRIX
Ibigay niyo na.

TONY
Nasa second floor eh. Kuhanin mo.

Nagtatanong ang mga matang susulyap sa apat si Brix. Ngingitian siya ni Marco. Iiwas ng tingin si Lloyd. Walang ekspresyon na hihithit ng sigarilyo si Andoy.

TONY
Let’s go.

Tatayo ang apat. Aalalayan ni Tony si Brix. Papalag ang huli. Hihigpit ang hawak ni Tony sa braso ni Brix.
Ilaw.

Ikalawang Tagpo
Sa tumatakbong kotse. Si Lloyd ang nagda-drive. Nasa front seat si Marco. Nasa likuran naman sina Tony at Andoy.
Kapansin-pansin ang katahimikan. Naka-sunglasses sina Marco at Tony. Nakaputi silang lahat.

LLOYD
Sa’n tayo?

Walang tutugon.

LLOYD