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The spirit of the Lord is with me

because He has appointed me to teach the less fortunate

the Good News of the Lord.

He has sent me to tell the prisoners

that they will be free,

and to the blind, that they will see,

to give comfort

to the oppressed,

and to reveal the redemption of the Lord.

Since when have you been with the Tribune?

Just recently,

less than a year.

Last I've heard you were in an ad agency.

I've already resigned from there.

I transferred to a PR office of an American company.

I can't imagine you as a PR.

Me too.

I still wonder how I was able to stay long.

The truth is,

if I hadn't resigned, I would have been terminated.

Why?

I often argue with my clients.

Your job now might be more suitable for you.

You majored in Journalism, right?

Well...

I don't earn much

but I like the work better.

As I was saying,

my article

is about nuns who are involved in politics.

In our congregation, Nick, we can choose our assignment

depending on our interest and skill.

What do you do here?

Yes, I am one of the guidance counselors here.

Why? What are the usual problems of the people here?

Different cases, there are runaways,

there are those separated from their spouse...

All women?

All women.

What else?

There are those beaten up by their parents,

unwed mothers... Magdalene...

That's what we call unwed mothers.

Why, did Mary Magdalene conceive a child?

Never mind, don't answer that.

Let me go back.

What's your opinion in

the socio-political involvement of nuns and priests?

Nick, I've already answered that.

One more thing, I don't know much about that,

so I'm not entitled to give my opinion.

Are you saying you're not interested?

I did not say that.

You're interested too.

In that case, what is your opinion?

Why are you insisting that question?

So I can get the opinions of those uninvolved.

Because I feel

the majority are not involved. Right?

Depends on how you define involvement.

What's your definition?

Like my work here at Caritas.

Isn't this involvement, too?

Our support to the residents here.

They are victims, too.

Victims of what? - Of the society.

That's why you can't blame them

if their lives won't have any purpose.

They need help.

They are asking for help.

We can't turn our backs on them.

Sister, I need to talk to you.

What time is it?

I don't know,

but they just played the National Anthem in the radio.

Let's talk tomorrow, Gigi.

I need to talk to you now, Sister.

I'm going crazy! I can't take it anymore.

Please, even for a few minutes.

Just a few minutes.

Don't open it.

I don't want to see light.

You're smoking again.

It's okay with me,

but you know we have rules here.

Don't you know it's bad for your baby?

How many times should you be told

you should not be taking care of yourself only.

Damn it, Sister!

I came here to ask for help,

not to hear your sermon.

I'm going crazy! I'm going to kill myself soon.

Why are you worried about my smoking?

I'm sorry, Gigi.

I'm sorry, too, Sister.

I'm sorry, but we're both tired.

I'm scared, Sister.

Let's have a seat.

I was already lying down a while ago.

I was thinking about this baby.

It's already four months old and growing everyday.

If you think that way, it will be harder for you.

Your problem will worsen.

It would have been better

if I had killed this baby before it was too late.

I should have gotten an abortion.

Gigi, we have talked about this many times.

You decided not to have an abortion.

I made a mistake, Sister.

I can't do it.

It's embarrassing, the baby will not have a father.

Don't worry, he will come back.

That's what you always tell me.

To comfort me.

But you know that he won't come back.

If he will return I won't be here.

Sister, I don't want to have a child. I can't do it.

You can do it. You are strong, Gigi.

It's easy to say that

because you're not the one who's suffering.

Suffering is a trial.

How do you know?

You have not suffered.

It's true, I have not experienced sufferings.

But it doesn't mean I don't feel your sufferings now.

Why are you interviewing me?

Sister Stella, you already have a reputation.

Reputation? Is it good or bad?

Controversial, Sister.

But I am also interviewing other nuns and priests.

What is that for?

This is for the Tribune, Sister.

I am making a series of articles

about the changes that are happening in the Church.

That is too general, Mr. Fajardo.

I hope you can be more specific.

Please call me Nick, Sister.

I'll call you Nick in one condition.

Don't talk to me as if I'm old.

Okay, I'll also try to be more specific.

Okay, shoot. What do you want to know?

What do you do here?

We are organizing Christian communities

in depressed areas such as this.

We try to give meaning to the Gospel

in the everyday lives of the poor.

So they will be aware of its true meaning.

What is its true meaning?

That it is not Christ's will that they remain poor.

That they have rights as a man.

Like what?

That they have a right to a decent life.

Like here in Barrio Aguho.

Residents are asking why they do not have supply of water.

They don't have a toilet.

They don't have a water pump.

Many get sick but they don't have money to buy medicines.

While there are many hotel and building constructions

around them.

Projects of the government.

What kind of organizing do you do here?

Basically, we are a support group.

But we also aid the women so they can help their husbands.

That's important.

Because Barrio Aguho is not an ordinary squatters' area.

It's a factory town.

The problems of the people

are rooted in their work in the factory.

In other words,

labor problem.

Hey, Stella.

Just a second, Gigi.

How are you?

Still the same.

Are you still a nun?

Of course.

I thought you're already into a bakery business.

It was just lent to me by a neighbor.

She has a vow that if she helps a nun,

she will get pregnant.

How are the other sisters here?

Still the same.

Is Juaning here?

She's here.

She'll surely be surprised when she sees you.

It's good to be surprised once in a while.

It slows down aging.

How are you?

Tell me what's happening outside.

If not, I will surely grow old.

Aren't strikes prohibited?

Juaning, the strike ban has already been lifted.

Strikes are already allowed today.

Although there are many laws which suppress this freedom.

But strikes remain the weapon of the workers

against the oppression of the management.

They have already appealed to them.

They have already laid out their grievances.

What did the owner say?

He won't face us.

He is an important man.

He is running several businesses.

The only ones we talk to

are the diffident manager of the factory

and his lawyers.

But what can they do? They are just puppets.

They are not afraid to threaten the workers

because they have a big time backer.

They don't believe that the union can go on strike.

What will happen now?

The workers will go on strike.

That's why I'm here.

I've gone to everyone I know.

Asking for donations for the strike fund.

You might be able to help us.

Even if it's not monetary.

It can be food or clothing.

The nuns here might want to join the strike.

I know that if there are nuns or priests in the picket line,

the scabs have second thoughts.

We have something to donate,

but I'm not sure if the nuns will join the strike.

And I want to remind you, Stella.

Social action is the line of work of our congregation

but even that has its limits.

And let's not forget what the Pope has said.

Let's not involve ourselves with politics.

I'm sorry, if I could only do what you're doing.

Why don't you try?

You will not know until you try.

Isn't it difficult?

Only in the beginning.

I'm also like that when I left here.

When you volunteered to go to Isabela?

Yes, I was always afraid I will not be successful

in organizing the people there.

They might not listen to me.

Then I met Sister Marie.

Who?

The nun from the other congregation.

She's old but not narrow-minded.

You haven't told me that.

We became close

before she was transferred to another assignment.

She told me something I'll never forget.

She said, the people should not be listening to you.

You should be the one to listen to them.

Good, it got published.

Wouldn't we get into trouble with boss?

Because of this?

I was able to get graver articles published,

what more with this?

Problem is, are your interviewees

aware of what might happen to them?

Especially this Sister Stella Bautista.

She speaks like an activist.

She doesn't sound like a nun.

Don't they just like that?

Serve others, as they say.

To be martyrs.

And they have no other choice.

What do you mean, they have no choice?

If they will not go down from their haven

and socialize with the masses,

the masses will socialize with the communists.

You're kidding.

Give them a chance.

They are just bothered

because of the many changes in the Church.

That's also confusing.

It's really confusing,

especially when you don't know

if you're going to say mass or go to the mountains.

Or if you're going to pray or join the struggle.

Why don't you pursue that in the second part of your series?

But it will be more interesting

if you will concentrate on the nuns.

It's possible.

But this time, I hope your article will be balanced.

Why?

When have I written unbalanced articles?

The one you wrote on your ex-girlfriend.

What's wrong with that?

Just because you think she is not fighting like her namesake,

you've shown that her being a nun is worthless.

That's true.

The nuns who are still locked up in the convent

are hopeless.

Do you really think that

or you're just still mad at her?

That's over.

Over? Or are you still disappointed?

I'm disappointed not because of that.

Imagine if the likes of Stella are the ones involved

in the socio-political work of the Church.

They will be more effective in convincing the masses.

Why, because she's pretty?

It is really insulting for a man to be left by his girlfriend

just to enter the convent.

Stop it.

She's really pretty.

Why? When did Christ say that only ugly women can be nuns?

See, you're still mad at her until now.

Have you read it?

Sorry if you were hurt by what I wrote.

That's your opinion.

I can't do anything about it.

I'm sorry, Stella.

I still can't accept that you're already a nun.

You will be better off

if we don't talk about it.

I still wanted to say something.

What's that?

Aren't we going to sit down?

I've wanted to tell you this for a long time now.

You know when you first entered the convent,

I planned on kidnapping you.

I'm not kidding.

Do you remember my friend Mooching?

We planned it.

We borrowed a jeep.

Then we waited for you.

Every Friday, you went home to your cousin's house.

We waited for a long time.

But you didn't go home that time.

If you had only went out, we would have eloped.

Nick, let's not talk about...

I had another plan.

I will march into the convent and make a scandal.

But my friends told me I'm overacting already.

If you really didn't want me anymore,

why would I force you?

So I thought

it will be better if I just forget you.

So I married someone else.

But she also left me.

Since when?

It's been a year now.

How about your child?

He's with her.

I understand your situation,

but we can't do anything... - That's what I also told myself.

I don't know.

Can I ask one more question?

What's that?

Why did you enter the convent?

I wanted to help others.

Oh, I see.

You don't believe me?

No. - Why?

It's hard to believe.

I think you were just confused that time.

We were always quarreling about that.

You're confused about the city.

You were confused about your parents.

About me because I was questioning my religion.

Did you enter the convent to run away from the chaos?

No, I entered the convent to find solution to the chaos.

Did you find it?

You should have told me properly.

You know, that's what made me really disappointed.

You were so informal.

You kept it a secret.

It was not a secret. I thought it over.

You didn't tell me you were entering the convent.

You didn't even break up with me.

I didn't know how to break up with you

without hurting you.

I didn't want to hurt you.

What you did was worse. You kept it from me.

I didn't tell my father as well.

Because you were all against it.

If I had told, you would surely stop me.

Not only will I stop you.

I will even tie you up and lock you inside the room.

It hurts to be dumped by your girlfriend

and be replaced by... wow!

Let me ask you Stella,

what does Christ have that I don't?

Just remember, there should be no altercation.

No one should hurl at them.

If anyone should cause trouble,

we should not get carried away.

Just hold those placards.

Don't use them as a weapon.

Let's not give them reason to break up our picket.

Nes, if someone loses temper, stop him.

Okay.

Soledad, are the cartons ready?

I will have them ready.

Ask donation from everyone who pass by. - I will.

Even from the manager, okay?

Okay, let's start our picket. Get the picket moving.

Position the placards alternately.

We are on strike! We are on strike!

What will you do now?

Your husbands are on strike now.

You should work harder.

Sister, even when there was no strike yet

we were already doing double work.

What you mean is

you'll also need to spend less.

Oh no, then that means we won't eat now.

Probably.

How are you?

What are you doing here?

Is Sister Stella here?

She's at the factory. She joined the strike.

Can I look for her there?

Sure, I'll go with you.

Don't you want to have breakfast or coffee perhaps?

No, thank you. I'll only be here for awhile.

Wait for me. I'll just change clothes.

Sister, are you joining the strike?

No, I'm just visiting Sister Stella.

Does she always go there?

No, Sister. The strike started just this morning.

Faster, Roger, they have started the strike.

Bring that down.

Is the white one for the tent?

Yes, Sister.

What's this?

Republic Oil, greedy!

We are on strike! We are on strike!

Ka Dencio, Sister and the others are here.

Nes, Ka Sidring, Sister and the others are here.

We are on strike! We are on strike!

Republic Oil, greedy! Greedy!

Your streamer is red with anger, Sister.

It's your son's idea.

It's just fitting, right Father?

Of course, in a struggle,

the brighter the red, the better.

Wouldn't it cause us trouble?

This is a strike.

Yes, but it's better to be careful.

Right, Ka Dencio?

Don't worry. If the manager learns

that a nun helped in making that,

for sure, he will grant our demands.

If not, the Church will kick him out.

Correct.

We are on strike! We are on strike!

Sister, you have reinforcements.

Hey, Stella.

You visited, as you said. - Good morning, Sister.

Good morning, Sisters.

It's good you were able to come.

She's also Sister Stella,

but her last name is Legaspi.

Sister, this is Ka Dencio, president of the union.

Ka Sidring is our vice. - How are you Sister?

Soledad, is our treasurer. How are you, Sister?

And that's...

Nes.

That's Nes.

And that's Roger.

He is the youngest son of Ka Dencio.

He is the secretary of the union.

All the officials are present.

We are on strike! We are on strike!

Comrades, here comes the bodyguards of the manager!

Puppet! Puppet!

Looks like there is an altercation.

Puppet! Puppet!

There's the manager!

Comrades!

Let's calm down.

Let's be peaceful.

Do not be swayed by their provocations.

Moving picket.

Sister, join us.

Roger, the placards.

Here, Sister.

Let's go.

We are on strike! We are on strike!

What have I gotten myself into?

Just relax. It's the first day on strike.

It is normal to have tension.

What shall I do?

Just follow what I do.

We are on strike! We are on strike!

Comrades, hold on for a second.

Just a second.

Do not lay a hand on the car.

Let's scorn them a little.

If it will enter, do not block it.

The picket should not be like this.

Before, we would lie down on the ground to block it.

I agree! Let's lie down.

Hold on, comrades.

Listen to me.

Let's abide by the law.

If we block it, they might file charges against us.

Now, they can enter and leave the factory as they please.

We should be legal.

Yes, legal.

But what good is this picket then?

To show them our unity.

Let them pass. Let them pass.

We are on strike! We are on strike!

Puppets! Puppets!

That's enough. That's enough.

Didn't we talk about this already?

This should not happen again.

If you want our strike to succeed

we should have discipline.

If not, all our struggles will be put to waste.

Okay, moving picket.

Go on.

We are on strike! We are on strike!

The picket is no use.

The manager was able to enter the factory in his car.

Where are your other children?

They have their own families.

One of them is staying in Parafiaque.

The other one is in Marikina.

What are their jobs?

None. Like me, they just help out their husbands.

It's good that Ka Dencio allows you to join the strike.

Who else will be helping out, but his own family?

God has mercy, but man has to work.

Right, Sister? - How about -

What if there's no more money?

Then the strike will have to stop.

You are asking too many questions.

You're making Auring tired.

That's alright, Sister.

I'm glad she's interested in our situation.

To answer your question,

it may happen, or it may not.

They can find a way to continue with the strike.

Aren't we a burden to them?

We are adding to their expenses. I feel uneasy.

Why will you feel uneasy?

They are not being forced.

They are used to hardships and they can sacrifice.

And it's enough for them to know

that even the nuns are helping them out.

Where is this?

In Pasig.

Resty took some pictures for the Labor Day issue.

When did he take this?

Just this morning.

She's your Stella, right?

It's her.

Why aren't you happy?

I thought you were frustrated with her

because she's not involved.

Now that she joined the strike

you're apprehensive.

This is dubious.

She probably has some problems

that's why she got involved.

How did you know she has problems?

I just know, she has problems.

I felt it the last time we talked.

Are you sure?

I know Stella.

We were in a relationship for several years

before she entered the convent.

She is easily influenced.

Her radical namesake might be influencing her.

That's why you're worried?

Of course.

You know the situation,

the nuns and priests who get involved are being watched.

If Stella gets involved,

for sure, she's not aware what she has gotten into.

How many years have you not seen each other?

What has that got to do with this?

Answer me.

How many years have you not seen Stella?

I last saw her two years ago with a nun.

Did you talk?

No.

Besides that, you haven't seen each other

since she entered the convent?

No.

How many years is that?

Nine.

Do you think, in a span of nine years

a person will not change?

I know her. I know Stella.

Okay, as you say.

Soledad, why?

We need you in the picket area.

We received a tip.

There will be scabs.

A police escort will go inside the factory.

Is Ka Dencio there?

They are all there.

They asked me to fetch you.

Stella, don't go home yet. We need you.

How about Sister Carmen?

She has some things to do

and I will be the lone nun in the strike area.

How about Juaning?

I told her I won't be long.

Don't worry about her.

You can easily convince her.

Okay, Soledad, we will just change clothes.

Okay.

We heard there were scabs.

We should block them.

What if they have police escorts?

Then there will be an altercation.

Are you ready to get beaten up?

Damn that manager!

Comrades!

Comrades!

Just a few reminders.

Listen to me for a while.

We should not make the police angry at us.

Nes, your group at the gate.

You're in charge of moving picket.

But be quiet.

No one will shout.

Roger, your group should barricade here in front.

You should link arms.

We should lie in the streets instead.

Ka Sidring, we already talked about that.

In the past, that's what we do when there's a strike.

So no scab can enter the factory.

Even if they hit us,

use water cannons against us,

TU“ US OVER.

Ka Sidring, we're not yet sure

if there are really scabs arriving.

If those are trucks,

or vehicles of the factory,

or the manager is arriving,

we should let them enter.

But if there are scabs,

I will be the first one to lie down here.

That's right!

Let's link arms.

Let's link arms together.

No one should let go.

Ka Dencio, we might not need this barricade.

Moving picket is enough.

Soledad's tip might not be true.

Never mind.

It's better that, in one way or another,

we're ready.

It's Sister!

You're dressed for the strike.

Ka Dencio, where's our post?

Let's all go there in front.

The police should see you first.

Give way to the nuns.

Good morning, Sister!

Let's position ourselves here.

I think the police will come from there.

What do you think would happen, Mang Dencio?

I don't know.

Nothing may happen-

or they may be an altercation.

Especially if both sides would be provoked.

What will I do now?

Say a little prayer.

Be brave.

And always smile.

Mang Dencio, here they come.

Are you their leader?

I'm the president of the Republic Oil labor union.

Do you have a permit to strike?

What is your role here, Sister?

We're helping them.

You're helping them?

Yes. Isn't that right, Sister?

What?

Captain is asking us what our role is.

What is the role of a Christian?

Isn't it to help the poor and the oppressed?

Whatever we do

to the poorest brother of Christ,

we also do for Christ.

Wait a minute, Sister.

You know, Sister,

I'm a Catechist.

And his wife is a member

of the Catholic Women's League.

He is a devout Catholic,

and he doesn't want to commit a sin against the Church.

However, he only receives orders.

They were asked to go to the strike area

because they got reports

that there are outside elements

who plan to mess with the strike.

And who are these outside elements?

You and your namesake? - Perhaps!

My namesake said...

I mean, Sister Stella said

that they have an agreement now.

It's vague to me.

But the police should be

a few meters away

from the strike area.

Then, what happened?

Then they went away after a while.

They just left two people behind

to ensure the safety of the laborers.

Stella, what did you gain from that experience?

Did you learn any lesson from that?

I don't know if you can call it a lesson, Sister.

But what I can't forget

is the way they took care of us.

They were the ones in need

but they always look after us.

What is in there,

aside from the strike?

What I saw is different, Gigi.

The poverty that I read and heard about,

it really exists.

What do you want to say now?

Are you leaving this place?

That's not what I meant.

You already told me before

that it's easy for me to talk

because I haven't experienced poverty.

Then what?

You'll just stay there?

Would you believe me, Gigi,

if I tell you that

I'm also at a loss like you?

What will happen to me

if you leave this place?

Gigi, you know I'm not always here.

That you can talk to me.

Help yourself.

Let's help each other.

Sister, I beg you please.

What will I do

if you will leave me here?

Gigi, help yourself.

Let's help each other.

Can I ask you a favor?

What is it?

There are nuns here before.

Where are they now?

Nuns?

Yes, there were two of them.

Both are called Sister Stella.

Why are you looking for them?

I interviewed them before.

Someone told me they were here.

Are you a journalist? - Yes, Sir.

I work for the Tribune.

They are not here anymore.

Where are they now?

I don't know.

They were just here briefly.

Okay, thank you.

Just tell them if ever they come back

that Nick Fajardo came to see them.

Okay, I'll tell them.

When did your strike begin?

Almost a week ago.

Okay, then.

Roger, go see Sister Stella at Agnus Dei.

Ask her if she knows Nick Fajardo.

He asked too many questions.

He could be an agent of the management.

Yes, I will.

Add this to your strike fund.

You cannot blame them

if the situation is tense.

They doubt those they don't know.

They may be infiltrators.

Your network is good.

The situation calls for it.

What brought you here?

Interview, Sister. - Again?

This is only the second time, Sister.

You mean there's another one?

Why don't you write about the strike instead?

Why? Did something happen?

What do you mean?

An altercation or someone was shot?

Does someone need to get shot?

Not necessarily.

But if there was altercation

it is definitely a bigger story.

Why is it like that?

Because the publisher is also a capitalist.

As much as possible,

the strike should not have any publicity

so as not to influence other workers.

But if it's a big story,

the publisher cannot do anything

if there's a big story or not.

If the workers want to go on strike

the publisher cannot do anything.

Wait a minute, Sister.

Let's talk about that later.

I can also write about that.

But I have to finish my series of articles.

Still about nuns and priests?

About nuns only.

Why are you so interested in our lives?

Maybe you're guilty on what you wrote about my namesake.

That's why you're curious on how we think.

You're thinking that

when you find out,

this will help you in your problem.

Isn't that so?

Have you ever doubted your vocation, Sister?

As a nun?

I know what you want to know.

If it's doubt on what I do now,

it already happened.

But on being a nun,

believe it or not, Nick,

it hasn't happened yet.

You're really decided to enter the convent?

Yes.

In fact, it's easier to decide.

What's difficult is to stick to your decision

especially if there are already trials.

Like the harassment you mentioned

when you were still in Isabela?

That's one.

What really happened, Sister?

If I tell you the story

will you promise me that it will be published?

Yes.

In the Tribune?

Let's try.

If the harassment that you're saying

is the harassment I'm thinking about,

it would be a long story.

Let's put it this way,

in places like Isabela,

or here where many are poor and oppressed,

the oppression against the oppressed

keeps the oppressors in power.

Did you understand what I said?

Just a little.

But I also want to ask something related to that.

What's that?

Are you a communist, Sister?

Do you mean you went to the strike

just to give me those photos?

No.

I'm just writing a follow-up story there.

You also have a follow-up story here.

Isn't it too obvious?

The truth is, I really want to see you.

Do you want to know why?

You don't want to know.

The truth is

I'm just curious.

You said before

you're not interested in those issues.

Then I saw that.

Aren't you happy?

In your article in the Tribune

you attacked nuns who only pray and do counseling.

I was bothered by my conscience.

Attack?

You've already acquired the language of the strikers.

It's not an attack.

A nudge?

Are we going to argue again?

I did not come here for that.

Sorry, Nick, I'm temperamental these past few days.

Why?

Maybe I'm just tired.

Are you going to leave this place?

Why do you ask?

Nothing, didn't I tell you I was curious?

Where would I go?

At the strike area.

Is it bad if I do that?

You're thinking of it.

Think harder.

It may not suit you.

How can you be so sure?

Maybe. I said maybe.

Nick, please bear in mind I'm no longer the Stella you know.

You have no right to judge me.

I'm no longer your girlfriend.

I know.

I already accepted that.

Even if it still hurts.

But maybe

I can still give you reminders

as a friend.

Sister, once I gave birth,

if I don't like the child

I can give it for adoption, can't I?

If that would be your decision, we can't do anything.

I don't like the tone of your voice.

Why, Gigi?

It's as if I don't care about my child.

I don't mean that.

Have you ever been pregnant, Sister?

Do you know how it feels to be pregnant?

It's difficult.

You're always tired.

Your breasts are aching.

It's hard to disembowel.

In the morning, when you wake up,

you always feel like vomiting.

When I think about it,

it enters my mind

that when this one comes out

we'll have the same twisted fate.

It would be better if we die now.

You're just upset, Gigi.

This will go nowhere.

You just don't have anything to say.

Isn't that the truth, Sister?

How would someone like you advise someone like me?

I know what you want to happen.

You just want to make me angry.

Then why don't you get mad?

Maybe you want to get angry now, Sister.

You're just restraining yourself because you're a nun.

Would you stop it, Gigi?

Because it's a sin to God.

Why don't you be like me?

I get angry. I curse. I get pregnant.

I commit sins to God.

Your God is the reason why I'm like this.

I'm kind, am I not?

Why has He forsaken me?

Why did He let my family renounce me?

Gigi, you're too dramatic!

I can't take her anymore, Sister.

I've already done everything.

I can't help her anymore.

I'm only human.

I might not be able to restrain myself.

Maybe it would be better for her if I'm not here anymore.

I understand you, Stella, but -

Why go there?

There are other assignments that -

you can choose from.

You can teach.

I can, Sister, but it's different from what I do here.

For now, I will allow you but -

I still have to consult this with our provincial.

You know that, Sister.

I would just like to remind you.

If you join them -

we will not be responsible to you anymore.

I've already prepared myself for that, Sister.

MAY 1 LABOR DAY

Worker -

You create the resources of the country.

You have long been suppressed by violence.

Let us unite and fight oppression.

Even if we have to lose a thousand lives.

For as long as this will bring us

the freedom that we have long cherished.

The time has come! The time has come, comrades!

Let us show the strength of our unity.

The time has come! The time has come, comrades!

That our country achieves genuine freedom.

Freedom!

Freedom!

Comrades!

We, the workers,

operate the machines.

We run the factory.

We increase capital.

But what's happening?

We who plant -

- and cook -

die of hunger.

We who construct tall buildings -

live in shanties.

We who create resources -

- are mired in poverty.

Today -

Labor Day,

let us bear in our minds

and in our hearts

that we can't change our condition

and our society will not change

if we will just sit down in one corner -

- and weep.

We, the workers, are the ones

who can change our fate.

If we will not act,

who will act for us?

If not now,

then when?

Is the news true?

About your article?

It isn't here. Damn, why did you remove it?

Nick, I did not remove it.

I worked on it for several nights -

only to go to waste, damn!

Before you curse me, listen to me first.

Why didn't you tell me that your magazine don't publish those articles?

Nick, would you stop it?

Would you sit down first?

The problem with you -

you don't listen to my suggestions.

I told you to write a balanced article -

two kinds of nun, two points of view.

But even if you did not listen to me

I let it through.

That's your article.

The truth is, we have already published 5000 copies.

But someone showed it to Boss.

You know some employees meddle with everything here.

Boss immediately killed your masterpiece.

Damn!

Just like that?

It depends -

On what?

It depends on you.

It can still come out.

Rewrite it.

Tone down.

Make a love story out of it?

I said tone down, not debase it.

That's the same!

In other words, you won't.

If you give up, you lose.

We lose.

Why? Are we fighting for something?

If you want to get even, that's the only way.

Will you rewrite it?

For the next issue?

We have simple lives here.

Before, if you eat five times a day,

here, you'll only eat to survive.

Is that why we don't depend on the congregation?

Yes, here we will rely on our own strength.

How's that? We don't even have jobs.

We don't run out of donations.

Our two fellow nuns have part-time office work.

They also send us money sometimes.

It may not be on a regular basis but it's enough.

What's that?

The house is being pelted with stones.

Who's that?

Let's take a look - Take ca re.

It's Roger.

Let's bring him inside.

Look!

Get it!

NUN THIEF SUBVERSIVE

I'm on my way home from the strike area.

Three men blocked my way.

Did you recognize them?

No, Sister, their faces were covered.

I'm sure they were outsiders.

How can you be so sure if you did not see them?

I'm sure, Sister.

If I recognize them, I'll get back at them!

Calm down. Let's talk to your father first.

Why don't they file charges?

Even if they want to, who will they sue?

They don't have any evidence against the company.

What do you want me to do?

The enemy is strong, Nick

They can do anything to neutralize the strike.

But Ka Dencio doesn't want to fight them.

He said there are other means of struggle.

That's why I'm here.

I want you to write everything that happened about the strike.

Especially what happened to Roger last night.

If I write about that, the situation will get worse.

More people might get hurt.

No!

They believe that when the case is published,

the company would be more careful.

They are prepared for whatever might happen.

What do you get from meddling in other people's problems?

You will just put yourself in danger!

Nick, why do you talk to me that way?

Do you have a problem?

I don't have a problem. You have!

Stella, sorry, if the situation is intense,

we should not act recklessly.

I can write about the issues of the strike.

But in Roger's case, it's difficult.

I'm afraid of what might happen to the workers.

To you.

It's better to exercise caution.

Or else, everything might go to waste.

They know what they're doing.

So if they don't act now,

everything they're fighting for would be worthless.

Is that what the radical Stella teaches you?

What are you really? Guardian angels?

Nick, you used to tell me in the past,

light up a candle rather than curse the darkness.

That's what I'm doing now.

It's hard to say a lot of cliches when you're still young.

When you grow old, they are hurled back at you.

If they're cliches to you now, to me they're not.

The problem with you is you're too self-righteous.

It's easy for you to talk because you're a typical do-gooder.

Typical nun who comes and goes, helps once in a while.

When you get sick and tired of the strike

you will go back to your comfortable life in the convent,

sleep in soft mattresses,

and eat three square meals a day.

If you don't want to help, don't criticize those who want to help!

Damn it!

Sorry, Sister.

I can't understand him.

It's as if I didn't do anything right.

Even before I became a nun, that's what we usually argue about.

He treats me as if I'm just a small child.

Maybe that's how he also treated his wife so she left him.

Do not put all the blame on him.

Probably he also has a lot of problems.

That's exactly my point.

If he has a lot of problems, why does he take them against me?

Who else would he talk to?

Isn't it the truth?

Perhaps you might get mad at me.

I really don't know.

I'm just new here but I feel like I have changed a lot.

Don't be too hard on yourself.

What do you mean?

Look, someone gave you the flak.

I can't stand you anymore.

Just take it as a little reminder.

It might help you someday.

Especially if I'm not here anymore.

Why? Where are you going?

I might need to go to Davao for a week.

Why? What's the problem?

I received a letter from Sister Marie.

The situation is serious in their place.

Three peasants were killed.

It's not clear what happened.

She will join a fact-finding mission next week

in the mountains.

Are you going to go there, too?

No.

She just needs to leave me a few important tasks before she goes.

What will happen now?

Sister Carmen and I would be the only ones left here.

Perhaps I may not withstand it.

Perhaps! Perhaps! You always say perhaps!

Maybe you're rig ht.

You may not withstand it.

But when will you know?

How about the strike?

You really have a lot of questions in life.

Sister Stella, even if we and Carmen are not here

they will continue with the strike.

Are you insane?

If your previous article did not make it, what more with that?

This is different. Why don't we try.

You don't even know how I will write it?

You don't need to write it.

I already know how it will turn out.

You're angry so I'm sure it will come out angry.

It's a strike. How many times will I tell you to just rewrite your article?

I know, tone it down. - Correct!

The article is already dead. It has been buried.

No matter how I stroke it, it will not come back from the grave anymore.

Who benefited from that?

You? Me? Three people from the printing press?

Why do you write? To be read by many or for yourself only?

Both, but if you will force me to write just to please a few people -

it would be better if I would not continue writing.

You're so stubborn! You should bang your head on the wall.

I know why you just want to write about the strike.

To release your pent-up emotions.

What do you mean?

Sister Stella is still the problem, isn't she?

Do you think you can win her back and make her leave the convent?

You were not able to do anything when she was not yet a nun,

what more now?

Stella has nothing to do with this.

Who are you fooling? Look at yourself, you look like a mad dog.

You should be ashamed of yourself.

Not just a woman, but a nun at that'.!

Are you finished?

What I just want is -

for you to be practical, accept your limitations.

Limitations?

We cannot publish delicate issues like that.

At least in the Tribune, I don't know with the tabloids.

So, what now?

If you will force me to publish

whatever delicate things you plan to write about,

if I defended you before, now I cannot do that anymore.

Is that clear?

It's not clear.

Where are you going?

I will look for a wall where I can bang my head!

Tribune... We're already closed!

That's right! We don't recognize their union

because they only have a few members.

They just cause trouble.

We have more than 200 employees but how many joined the strike?

It did not even reach two dozens.

The others can't go to the factory because of the picket.

They're being harassed and intimidated.

What I've heard is

the picketers are the ones being harassed.

What do you mean?

One of the workers was beaten up a few days ago.

A son of a union official, do you know this?

I don't know anything about that.

The strikers suspect that

some thugs from the company were responsible.

That's a lie!

Maybe they just concoct that story to put the company in a bad light.

If it's true, a fellow worker might have done that

who is not a member of the union.

Because they're mad at the picketers.

They don't earn and their families are hungry.

There were reports that there are goons going around the picket line.

We don't have goons.

Maybe they brought in the goons to sow terror.

There were even reports about scabs.

We don't have scabs.

We obey the law. Everything we do is legal.

Not everything that is legal is just.

That crooked reasoning is what they always use against us.

Maybe because subversive elements have infiltrated their ranks.

Subversive?

Their uneducated officials

who join seminars outside and picks up a lot of nonsense.

Add to them those who meddle with affairs which they should not meddle with.

Who are they?

The nuns! - Nuns?

The nuns who manipulate our workers!

Good evening, Sister.

Nick, what are you doing here?

I'm writing an article about the strike.

Why did you change your mind?

Don't ask

Maybe you're just being forced to.

You might blame yourself for that later.

Stella, Sister, can we be friends again?

Comrades, those who want to drink coffee, it's now ready!

Do you want coffee?

Thanks.

Thank you.

I'll go with you.

No, it's safe here. This is my territory. Take care.

Go ahead.

Carmen, you're still awake.

I was waiting for you. You have a letter here from Caritas.

It's important.

When did it arrive?

Just today.

I would have given it to you earlier but no one would be left here.

Don't take this badly, Stella.

But the congregation did not agree with your work at Barrio Aguho.

For them, whatever your problem here at Caritas, you should face it.

But I believe I've already finished my work here.

You will not be the one to decide on that.

How about Gigi?

Ever since you left here, she hasn't talked to anyone.

She's always alone, in misery. That child has a big problem.

Would she still talk to me?

Maybe she's just waiting for you.

Aside from Gigi, Sister, is there another reason?

I know what you want to know.

You're right.

I didn't defend your case to the provincial.

Because I feel you did not have enough time

to think about your decision.

Maybe you'll admit that

there was a sudden turn of events in your life during the previous weeks.

Gigi, your namesake,

even that journalist you used to talk to,

and now the strike.

Up to where would it take you, Stella? To politics?

Sister, do you mean I just let myself go with the flow?

I don't decide on my own?

I know the decision of the congregation is against your will.

But don't forget that before anything else, you're a nun!

Is that all, Sister?

Thank you.

How are you?

I'm fine. When did you arrive?

Just today.

Would you stay here again?

Yes.

But you're not happy here.

Gigi, I admit I'm not happy here.

While I still have my own problem,

I don't want to do counseling.

I'm like a blind woman guiding another blind person.

No, Sister, you're the only one who can comfort me.

More than everything, you're the one I need.

Why don't you try to ask help from the others?

What for?

Nothing will happen, anyway.

I did not tell you, Sister.

Maybe it's time for you to know.

Before I went here, I had two abortions.

My boyfriend just forced me to. I don't want to.

I want to have a child.

I want to have a child with him and possibly get married.

When I got pregnant again,

he was forced to bring me here.

Because our abortionist didn't want to do it anymore.

She said it would be dangerous for me to have another abortion.

Does he still love you?

I think so.

He agreed to live in with me as long as we won't have a baby.

But I was the one who did not adhere to our agreement.

Let's confront him. Do you want us to confront him?

I don't know. I don't know, Sister.

Go ahead, Sister. I will now take a rest.

Thank you.

Okay, let's talk again later.

Sister, sorry for everything I have done to you.

I did not mean them.

Okay, Gigi, take a rest now.

What are your plans now?

I don't know.

You need a rest. You might get sick.

Why don't you ask for a vacation? Maybe they'll grant you one.

I don't want to, Nick. I don't need a vacation.

I need to go to Barrio Aguho to talk to Stella.

She still doesn't know this.

They don't want you to go there anymore.

But I can't accept that, Nick.

I don't want to stay here anymore.

If they will force me, I'd rather leave this completely.

For a sister or not,

there comes a time in a person's life when one needs to make a decision.

Not for one's congregation,

not for one's family, or for anyone else.

But for one's self.

There's still hope.

I can talk to the provincial.

She's okay.

She might agree to give you a trial period here in Barrio Aguho.

But the decision for me to go back to Caritas came from the provincial.

That's what Juaning told you, but I believe it's not true.

It seems like she was just influenced by the old nuns around her.

That's also what happened to my case and several others.

They don't want nuns in the streets.

But where else can you find true Christians now but in the streets?

I think we share the same beliefs.

Maybe that's why I'm confused.

As if my world has turned upside down.

For several years, I've been quiet and contented.

But now I have too many questions.

Only the dead don't ask questions.

Perhaps.

Before, when they ask me why I decided to be a nun

I can answer at once.

Now, I'm the one who asks myself why I really did.

It's hard to answer that.

What do you think would happen to me?

It's difficult to answer that, too.

But I can tell you what I want to happen.

Continue being a nun.

You have all the qualities of a nun in our congregation.

It seems like I can do more outside the convent.

Like helping the labor union?

That's one.

Look at me, I help the union and I'm still a nun.

We should administer your case with the provincial.

If ever they allow you to, someone will replace me.

When are you going to leave?

I'm not sure but it would be soon.

When will you come back?

I just need to talk to Sister Marie.

Look at her. She grew old as a nun but she still goes anywhere.

They're just strict because you're still new at organizing.

In one way or another, the Church can still change.

It also adjusts to the sign of the times.

When you're a nun, you can fight for your ideas.

Except if you have another problem.

Problem?

Nick. Does he like you?

Perhaps.

I'm sure.

But that's not the problem.

The problem is if you also like him.

Do you like him, too?

I don't know.

Don't worry.

Once I became the provincial,

or cardinal, no, I'm ambitious.

If I get voted as Pope,

we will change the rules of the church.

You can get married,

or go to the mountains if you like.

But you'll still be a nun in the streets until you die.

You were fired?

No, I did not give them the honor to fire me. I resigned.

If they don't like me, I don't like them, too.

How about you? When will you resign?

Resign?

You told me something about that before.

You said that if they forced you to stay at Caritas

you might resign from here.

Yes, I remember saying that.

Have you thought about it?

I'm still thinking about it.

It's difficult, Nick.

Why?

I've been here in the convent for nine years.

If I come out now, I'm like a fish taken out of the water

which cannot breathe and would like to go back to where I came from.

Think about it, Nick. If I weren't a nun,

I would now be in the province with a small business.

Or I might have a job here with a small income.

But it's okay as long as I'm happy.

If you weren't a nun, we could have been together.

You will go now?

You're right on time.

I wouldn't have wanted to leave while there's a strike.

But Ka Dencio and the rest understood that my trip is very important.

I will miss you.

If you have a problem, write me a letter.

Even about him.

If about him, I don't know.

But I don't think about him right now.

Don't hide it. It really happens.

You know that our lives are abnormal.

Even in normal things like the love of a man for a woman

the situation's still abnormal.

Give my regards to Sister Marie.

I will.

Take ca re. - You, too.

If you love him, follow your heart.

There are other ways to serve God.

There's no complication

in your life before.

You're at peace,

the sky is bright,

the road is straight and even

in your life then.

But every heart on a journey

gets to a crossroad.

Now that you're here,

you need to decide.

Which road will your heart take?

Where will you be happy?

Where will you fail?

Where will you go?

It's easy to follow

the wind and the wave.

You'll hope for a prayer

that will guide your feelings.

But where will the wind and wave lead you?

You know that every loving heart

will get to the crossroad.

Now that you're here,

you need to decide.

Which road will your heart take?

Where will you be happy?

Where will you fail?

Where will you go?

I didn't expect the strike will last this long.

Our comrades have low morale now.

We don't have funds anymore.

Nes may be right.

Why? What did he say?

If we will stop the strike,

the management will employ us again.

What did you tell him?

I did not reply.

I can't think of anything to say.

Ka Dencio, our comrades have low morale now

but I think many of them still believe what you are fighting for.

Are you sure, Sister?

I was able to talk to Ka Sidring earlier.

They tell you that I did not do anything, that I'm useless.

No, Ka Dencio, they did not say anything like that.

They don't need to say it anymore. It's true.

If they want to, they can replace me.

Even if you're not with them, they will continue with the strike.

That's right! I taught them not to depend on a leader.

Rely on your own strengths.

It's good they learned something.

But if you will add your leadership experience to our strengths.

They can handle that even without me.

You don't believe in what you're saying, Father!

Damn it!

Why do you know more than I do?

What is happening to you?

They are reasonable.

If we give up now, our long struggle might have just gone to waste.

I know you, Dencio. You're a man with principle.

Can I feed you with my principle?

Look at you.

Before, you always convince me that it is right.

Now, I understand it.

Do you think we're not suffering?

If we can bear it, what more with you?

And don't forget, if not for you -

What happened?

Ka Dencio, it's the same men we usually see aboard a jeep.

They were going around our place for several nights now.

Comrades -

The management is exhausting all means

to scare us and surrender all what's left of our dignity.

Not only as workers, but as human beings as well.

Would we let them succeed with their crooked ways?

No!

Would we let them treat us like animals that they can lash on to?

No!

The time has come for us to show them our strength.

Let's demand for our rights.

Long live the working class!

Ma buhay!

Long live the strike!

Ma buhay!

We are on strike! We are on strike!

Comrades!

Don't let the truck pass through!

Comrades, let's link arms!

Move out! Let the truck pass through!

He said let's move out and let the truck pass through.

Would you agree, comrades?

No!

Run them over!

Let's lie on the streets!

Get up!

You bastards!

Damn you!

Damn you!

You don't want to obey us?

Damn!

You! Back out!

Damn you! Subversives!

Move out fast!

We did not start the altercation.

You were there, Mr. Fajardo. You saw what really happened.

Maybe that's the only way we can show

that our patience also has its limits.

That's right! But what does the law state?

Don't block the ingress and egress of the products?

That's why we're on strike - to stop production.

What will happen if the products continue to come in and out of the factory?

It may be against the law and illegal,

but not everything that is legal is just.

The management is ready to negotiate.

Stop the destruction, the altercation.

What's important is that we can work again.

If they really want us to go to work,

then they should give us what we're asking for, no more, no less.

Women are different now.

If they look at the women then as housewives only,

now we should also fight for their rights.

We're also workers, aren't we?

Aren't the workers the ones who create the nation's resources?

If that's the case,

why are we always oppressed?

With the high cost of goods nowadays,

their previous income is not enough.

It is just right to increase their wages.

They should give us first all our demands

before we will meet with them.

They should stop their strike first

before we can talk.

And get rid of the subversive nuns who manipulate my workers!

No one is manipulating his workers.

If his management is satisfactory,

no amount of manipulation can affect his workers!

I'm a Catholic, Mr. Fajardo,

but if the nuns and priests today are being used by the communists,

then it would be better to change my religion.

If he is a Catholic, Nick,

it is better if he would change his religion.

I don't want to hear that we believe in the same God.

We will not stop, Nick,

no matter what happens.

We will go on with the strike.

Who's there?

Good evening!

Good evening, Aling Auring!

Can I talk to you for a moment?

Come inside!

It's okay. It will just be for a moment.

Why?

I will just go to the strike area.

It's late at night and it's raining hard.

Sleep now. I'll go back immediately.

Take care!

I did not hear what they were talking about.

It was raining very hard.

Dencio said they would go here.

They were not here.

Roger and I were here all night.

Have you reported this to the police?

Yes, they have already gotten our statement -

from mother, me, and the officials of the union.

They said they will investigate.

What happened to Nes?

He also did not come home.

Nick, help us find them.

Have it published in the newspaper.

I know a colonel.

He might help us.

Colonel? Can he help us?

If you want, the lawyer of your federation.

It's better if I can consult with him.

I'll go with you.

Leave him there.

Let her be.

Ka Dencio, what did they do to you?

They said let's stop the strike.

I told them I can't do anything.

It's the will of the people.

They hit me repeatedly.

They even burned me with a cigarette.

They said our lives are all in danger.

What about Nes?

That traitor!

That's why he's pushing for a negotiation -

that son of a bitch has a plan.

Damn him!

Don't talk anymore, Ka Dencio.

Sister, we will continue with the strike.

We will continue no matter what happens.

Damn this old man!

We will continue!

You haven't learned your lesson.

Maybe he's a masochist.

What will you do to him?

Get the nun away from him.

What will you do to him?

Damn you! Puppets!

Stop it! Stop it!

Damn you! Damn you! Puppets!

Stop it! Stop it!

Damn you! Puppets!

You know what I can advise you?

Do not meddle with anything you should not meddle with.

Do not meddle in other people's problems.

Did you understand what I said?

Answer him!

You have a low IQ.

I thought you're a journalist.

Do not meddle in other people's problems.

In other words, stay away from this.

Take this.

Come on, take this.

Take this.

You're uncooperative.

My boss said take this.

Finish that up. That's expensive.

Damn you!

Don't!

You animals!

Damn you! Cowards!

She's a nun!

A nun?

If she's a nun, why isn't she in convent?

Why does she curse?

Damn!

She doesn't do what a nun does.

Is she really a nun?

I don't think so.

Why does she go alone with a man?

Are you a virgin, Sister?

Are you really a nun, Sister?

Can I taste you, Sister?

Come on.

Can I taste you?

You're playing hard to get.

You're really playing hard to get.

Next time, I don't want you to go with your boyfriend.

I feel jealous.

Stop it! Let's go!

Wait first.

Those two will learn their lesson.

Take the old man outside.

Are we going to kill this one?

Not yet.

Play with him first before killing him.

Take that out!

We are on strike! We are on strike!

My head hurts.

You're tired.

My head seems ready to explode.

You're tired. You need to take a long rest.

Where's Ka Dencio?

Sleep now, Stella.

Don't think of anything anymore.

You're now responsible for your own good.

Sleep. Don't worry.

God has mercy.

Where's Nick?

Sleep now, Stella.

Sleep now.

How is she?

Her fever is high. She's now asleep.

What is your plan now?

I will report it.

In the mainstream media.

I will write it.

Think hard of the consequences, Mr. Fajardo.

You might be in greater danger because of that.

I'm a writer, Sister.

That's my job.

I cannot just forget what happened.

Ka Dencio might have already been killed.

I know that there are many things now that

we cannot disregard especially in places like Barrio Aguho.

I'm not stopping you from what you should do.

We have our own responsibilities but -

do you need to sacrifice other people's lives

in order for you to do your duty?

Aling Auring, do you think it would be better

for everyone's safety

for you to stop the strike?

I know what you're thinking of, Nick,

and I thank you for your concern.

But whatever happened to him,

I know Dencio would like us to continue what he started.

But you're in danger.

If you continue with the strike, many might end up dead.

Right now, they're already killing us.

Maybe you're thinking that I already abandoned you and Carmen.

The truth is

I immediately planned to go back after talking to Marie,

but she requested me to stay and wait for her for some more days

until she came back from their fact-finding mission.

I did not expect what happened.

Days became weeks.

The fact-finding mission returned without Marie.

She's missing.

One night, when they were on their way back to their station,

several armed men were following them.

She got separated from her companions.

God has mercy.

He will not let anything bad happen to someone like Marie.

She left several tasks here

so I cannot go back there immediately.

It's different if you became close

to the people that you should really help.

You feel as if you're becoming closer to God.

I hope that's what you also feel

while you're together with Ka Dencids group.

When?

Last night.

How did you know?

Soledad called me earlier.

How are you?

I was up all night.

When I got home yesterday I could not sleep.

I just wrote all night.

All day and all night, I just wrote.

About that?

I'm done.

I finished it quickly.

It's the first time that I was able to do that.

I already submitted it.

What would Aling Auring do?

They will continue with the strike.

Let's go back to Barrio Aguho, Nick.

It's dangerous there, Stella.

I know.

Let's wait for some days until the tension eases up.

If we would act, it should be now.

Aren't you afraid?

Of course, I'm afraid.

That's what they want us to feel, isn't it?

So that whatever cruel things they do, we'll just keep quiet.

We'll hide in one corner like a dog hiding its tail.

My father's principles are intact.

If he ever doubted once, that's on his ability to lead the union.

But he never doubted the ability of the union

to fight the oppression of those capitalists!

Why don't we file charges?

Sister and I can stand as witnesses.

Why?

For your father.

They should pay for what they have done.

Shouldn't Nes be responsible for this, too?

He will not show here anymore.

He's gone.

Why?

Maybe those who used him -

do not have any use for him anymore.

What are you going to do now?

We will continue with the strike.

We cannot do anything anymore.

You heard what my mother said.

Right now, they're already killing us.

It's better to die fighting than not do anything at all.

When Dencio was still alive,

before you even formed your union,

we used to talk about

organizing the workers.

In fact, we usually argue about this.

For me then,

as long as you eat everyday,

you eat to survive,

you're neither hungry

nor full,

as long as your children can eat and study,

that's enough.

I believe that's what life really is.

There are rich people and there are poor ones.

There are bosses and there are servants.

Dencio believed otherwise.

It's not right that there are those who enjoy the wealth -

while others are suffering.

It's just right, he said,

that those who worked hard to earn this wealth

should also have their share.

I told him that

what is important

is that we continue to live.

We live quietly and peacefully.

But I slowly realized

that my husband was right.

Because if you will just keep quiet

they would even get what little wealth you have.

And this will happen if you will not learn how to fight.

I'm sad today

because I lost my husband

and my partner in life.

Like what my children feel upon the loss of their father.

But despite this sadness

I felt happy when I saw you still together

to continue with this strike.

I became happier

when I saw that many came here to support the strike.

We know you are all here

to condole with us,

that we are not alone in our sorrow.

Dencio might be dead but the strike is very much alive!

Long live Ka Dencio!

Mflbuhqy!

Long live the working class!

Mflbuhqy!

I would now like to call

one of those who support us in our strike.

They would like to hear your thoughts.

Before Ka Dencio died,

I saw the fresh marks of the torture they did to him.

I felt that his body cannot stand it anymore

but his spirit is still very strong.

The very same strength which led him

to organize the union

and fight for your rights together

and not give up this strike.

Whatever happens,

I can feel that -

this gives us strength

to go on with our just strike.

I cannot forgive the torture

and the murder of Ka Dencio by unknown men.

I know,

because I experienced the cruelty that they can do.

I was intimidated,

and I am still intimidated by what they can still do.

But if we would let us be cowed by fear,

if we will give up now,

it is as if we have given up our right to live with honor,

as if we have given up our future.

I have heard several times,

I was reminded several times that I am just a nun.

A nun who should not meddle with things she doesn't know anything about.

But before anything else,

I'm also a human being.

I'm also a Christian.

And as a Christian, I know and we all know

that we are right.

That what we are doing is right.

That what we are fighting for is right.

And if Christ were here,

I'm sure He would be with us in this struggle.

Justice for Ka Dencio!

Justice!

Long live the strike!

Mflbuhqy!

Long live the working class!

Mflbuhqy!

We are on strike! We are on strike!

Sister Stella wrote me again.

She condoled with us.

She's sad.

She's praying,

not only for Ka Dencio,

but to all the victims of a harsh system of society.

Victims like Gigi then,

who suffered and was not able to bear it anymore.

And victims like Ka Dencio,

who died fighting for his beliefs.

I replied to her.

I told her I still have a lot of things to learn.

I need to know a lot of things about the present situation.

About what needs to be done.

But I am here now,

in the midst of the events.

I learned and understood a few additional things,

but I continue to study and learn.

Not just someone who only watches,

but shares the burden of those who cannot fight back,

unites with the struggle of those who are oppressed,

helping to the best of my abilities.

Ka Dencio said when he was still alive,

if we will not act,

who will act?

If not now,

then when?

What love

can be greater

than my love for you, my country?

In anguish and in comfort,

in joy and in sorrow,

lam always with you.

If the golden grain

waves its leaves,

Fm beside you in the fields, my country.

If the soil is barren

and you cannot cry,

I will give you water.

If the flower blooms,

I will make a necklace for you, my country.

If the storm and winds hit us,

I have a safe nipa hut.

Is there a love more splendid

than my love for you, my country?

No more, nothing.

No more, nothing.

No more, nothing.

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