Dolphy: A Beacon of Faith amidst Controversy*

In the vibrant tapestry of Filipino entertainment, few names shine as brightly as that of Rodolfo Vera Quizon, more popularly known as Dolphy. A beloved actor and comedian, Dolphy's legacy is not just defined by his roles in film and television but also by his unwavering faith and commitment to the Church, particularly during the controversies surrounding his last film, "Father Jejemon."

The Man Behind the Laughter

Dolphy was more than just a comedic genius; he was a man of deep faith. Raised in a Catholic household, he often credited his upbringing for instilling in him a sense of faith and community. Throughout his career, Dolphy maintained a close relationship with the Church, frequently participating in religious activities and charitable works. This dedication to his faith became increasingly significant during the latter part of his life, especially as he faced various challenges.

"Father Jejemon": A Controversial Farewell

"Father Jejemon," released in 2010, was a film that ignited considerable debate within the Filipino Catholic community. The movie featured Dolphy as a priest who grapples with the modern challenges of faith and morality in a rapidly changing society. While many appreciated the film's comedic approach to serious topics, it also drew sharp criticism from some Church leaders. Some Church leaders publicly called for scrutiny, stating, "The movie does not give a good reflection on the priesthood." He urged the laity to "speak up" and articulate their concerns, even after the production team had decided to cut certain objectionable scenes.

Amid the backlash, Dolphy remained committed to his faith and the Church's values. He voluntarily pushed for the removal of controversial scenes, including a particularly problematic moment involving the Holy Communion. Despite the financial implications of deleting such scenes, Dolphy emphasized, “I don't want to fight with the priests,” reflecting his deep respect for the sacredness of the sacraments. He expressed sadness over the criticism, remarking that "Father Jejemon" might be his last film, and emphasized, "Ako ay mapagmahal sa Diyos... mamamatay na nga ako, sa Diyos lang ako sasandal" ("I hold a deep love for God... even as I approach death, I shall rely solely on God").

While some criticized the film for trivializing the Eucharist, others saw an opportunity for reflection. Some noted that certain scenes could serve as reminders for both priests and laity—encouraging women to dress appropriately in church and urging priests to be more cautious in administering the sacraments. This duality of perspectives highlighted the film's capacity to spark dialogue about faith and practice, even amidst controversy.

Faith as a Foundation

Dolphy's approach to the criticism he faced during "Father Jejemon" serves as a testament to his character. He believed that faith should be a source of strength, especially during difficult times. By not only standing by his work but also using it as a platform for discussion, Dolphy embodied the essence of what it means to live a faithful life—embracing the complexities of existence while staying true to one’s values.

In his later years, Dolphy continued to exemplify his love for the Church through various charitable endeavors. He supported numerous causes, particularly those aimed at helping the marginalized and less fortunate. His commitment to service highlighted his belief that faith must be lived out through action, resonating deeply with the teachings of the Church.

A Lasting Legacy

Thank you, Dolphy, for bringing smiles to our hearts throughout your remarkable career. He passed away in July 2012, leaving behind a legacy that transcends his iconic roles. His life serves as a reminder that true faith is often tested in unexpected ways. Through the controversies surrounding "Father Jejemon," Dolphy exemplified that faith is a journey requiring courage, reflection, and a willingness to confront difficult questions.

As we remember Dolphy, we honor not only his contributions to Filipino entertainment but also his unwavering faith in the Church. His life inspires us to remain true to our beliefs, especially in the face of adversity. In a world where controversy often breeds division, Dolphy’s legacy encourages us to embrace dialogue, understanding, and, above all, a profound love for God and community

Bahay Kubo: Our Home*

We grew up in a simple barangay called "Lolomboy" in Bocaue, Bulacan. Our parents lived there since the late 1960s. After Typhoon Ondoy wreaked havoc in October 2009, we rebuilt and repaired our childhood home. Little did we know that we would later acquire another property in the nearby barangay Duhat. This decision, made in 2006, feels like divine intervention. Had we not purchased that second home, perched on higher ground, I am unsure where our family would have found refuge after the flood. God’s providence is undeniable. What’s more remarkable is that weeks before Ondoy struck, we had moved all our important documents and cherished photos to this new place without any knowledge of the coming super typhoon.

Our batch went to our house during our Integration in 2005.

Initially, our second home was envisioned as a rest house. The tranquility and cool climate of the area made it an ideal retreat. However, over time, it became our primary residence. Despite this, we never neglected our original house in Lolomboy. In fact, we visit it daily, as it remains a cherished part of our family history.

Building our second home was a family affair, a true labor of love. We didn’t hire an architect; I took on the challenge of designing it myself, presenting my plans for family approval. The result was a modern take on the traditional "bahay kubo"—a Filipino nipa hut. Constructed mainly from bamboo and topped with nipa and anahaw leaves, the home has a modern twist: a tiled floor, a sleek kitchen, a bar, a shower, and an air-conditioned bedroom. The living space is comfortable, surrounded by a lush garden, and we even built separate smaller kubos—a receiving area and a storage space. There’s also a terrace, or veranda, that feels like an extension of the home, providing a serene view of the surroundings.

The original plan for the house included two bedrooms and a large living room. However, after some discussion, my eldest sister proposed adding a small swimming pool, leading to some necessary adjustments. It may surprise many, but building a bahay kubo today is more expensive than constructing a concrete house, and it requires meticulous maintenance.

In the end, a house is just a structure. What transforms it into a home is the love, respect, and faith that nourish the family living within. Our home is a place where prayer anchors our lives, and where each member finds comfort and belonging.

Below are the graphics of the original plans for our beloved home, along with a “home vacation reflection” I wrote in 2007.

A BLESSED HOME VACATION

May 2007

Rev. Louie R. Coronel, OP

Our Thanksgiving Mass during our communal vacation in Palawan was a heartfelt expression of gratitude to God for all the graces we have received. Each day, we are blessed by God's generosity, even though we sometimes fail to recognize it. Home vacations are not merely long summer breaks; they are blessings meant to be spent with our first family. Otherwise, we miss the true purpose of this vital part of our formation. To know our roots is to understand more about ourselves. We eagerly anticipate these vacations, as they leave us physically and spiritually renewed before another year of formation begins.

This year's home vacation was particularly special for me. I did not go out without my family, except on one occasion when I visited a friend in Malolos City, whom I consider a brother. That visit further strengthened our family bonds.

At home, in addition to watching my favorite TV shows, I engaged in gardening and general house cleaning. I even took on the laundry duties. When my mother asked why I was doing the laundry, I told her that service and mission are central to our formation. To complete the package, I also ironed our clothes and washed the dishes. Saturdays became cleaning days, as they had been for me even before I became a Dominican.

It was also my first time spending vacation in our small kubo made of nipa and bamboo, located in the neighboring barangay. I found it fascinating to harvest santol, kaimito, calamansi, peppers, and mangoes, even though our land is not that large. Before the vacation ended, we planted eggplants, batao, and a flowering plant given to us by my sister. In three months, we hope to see the fruits of our labor. It was a peaceful and fulfilling experience to plant and tend the garden.

Every Friday, especially when I am home, our family visits the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Marilao, Bulacan. It is in that sacred place that I ask for God's mercy and guidance in my vocation and discernment. On Sundays, we attended Mass together as a family—something we hadn’t done before. Another blessing, indeed! I also spent some time reviewing Latin, but ultimately decided to focus on Spanish, which will be helpful for my thesis.

There’s a common description of a joyful vacation: it always feels bitin (too short). But we know there is a time for everything, and I will cherish the moments I spent with my family. At one point, I felt a bit regretful for not visiting other friends. When I mentioned this to my mother, she responded, “Di bale na, anak, nakasama ka naman namin” (That’s alright, my child, you were with us). How could I not be moved by such a touching statement from my mother?

I know that I will face many challenges again, but I am comforted by the knowledge that many are praying for me and supporting my vocation. They are all blessings, and I cannot help but be deeply grateful to God.

Rev. Louie R. Coronel, OP

A Stole from Heaven*

It’s fascinating how dreams can transport us beyond the confines of our imagination, even allowing us to encounter holy figures who have long been in the presence of the Lord. On June 7, 2010, during a challenging period of preparing for my final exams, I experienced a dream that was particularly remarkable: I met none other than Pope John Paul II, a man I had never personally encountered in my life.

Meeting him had always been a cherished wish of mine, and while I never had the opportunity in waking life, this dream felt like a precious gift. I typically don’t place much significance on dreams, but this one was distinct. I was taken aback by how vividly he appeared to me. Although I often pray to him when I pass the year-long "JPII photo exhibit" at the Angelicum in Rome, where he studied, I never anticipated such a profound encounter would unfold in my dreams.

In my dream, I saw an elderly John Paul II, clad in the iconic white papal vestments, who graciously presented me with a stole as a gift. Though no words were exchanged, an overwhelming sense of joy filled my heart. It felt as if he were offering me comfort during the rigorous demands of my academic preparations. The stole symbolizes the yoke we bear, reminding me to embrace my responsibilities and continue moving forward toward Christ, our Savior.

Thank you, Pope John Paul II. Your presence in my dream was a source of inspiration and solace, and I hold a deep affection for you in my heart.