Fidel A. Reyes is known as the author of "Aves de Rapina" (Birds of Prey), an editorial published in the revolutionary newspaper El Renacimiento (The Renaissance/Rebirth). His work bravely exposed the corruption and abuse of a powerful government official during the American colonial period in the Philippines. The editorial ignited the country's national spirit and was subject to the most sensational libel case filed by the Unites States government against the Filipino nationalist movement. Not much has been documented about the editorial's heroic author, a fact that has led Philppine historian Ambeth Ocampo to refer to him as "the forgotten Reyes".
Uncovering the life of Fidel A. Reyes reveals a timeless and inspiring story of how nationalism is able to transform the lives of ordinary men and women. It tells the tale of how a devotion to the welfare of one's country changed a pharmacist from a middle-class family in the province of Lipa, Batangas into a crusading journalist, politician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. More than just another historical biography, the story of Fidel A. Reyes contains important lessons on how to become a thriving and involved citizen today. His life reads like a guidebook with each chapter demonstrating simple yet powerful ways to transform oneself and society by following the same driving themes that defined his own life.
He has been a true inspiration and mentor to those who have had the privilege to know him. As his great granddaughter, I have seen how his immediate family cherished him for generations. Probably one of the reasons why his life has not become the subject of books was because of a deep attachment of his children and grandchildren to everything that reminded them of their Tatay (Father). He was the greatest treasure his family had known and his memory, the greatest inheritance they had ever received.
So much so that when my grandmother, Josefa Reyes-Luz ceremoniously gave me her collection of photos and clippings about her father, it seemed to make all heirloom jewelry and land titles fade in the background. What she handed me was the most valuable gift of all and she and I both agreed that it was time to share our precious Tatay with others.
Unexpectedly through the course of our little book project, what was at first intended to be a straightforward narration of his life turned into a living and breathing testimony of just how inspiring and transforming his story really was. Significant events began to take place in my life as I pieced together all the pivotal moments in his.
Unexpectedly through the course of our little book project, what was at first intended to be a straightforward narration of his life turned into a living and breathing testimony of just how inspiring and transforming his story really was. Significant events began to take place in my life as I pieced together all the pivotal moments in his.
Like most heroes, his story is set during a time of revolution. But not the large scale revolutions that have emerged time and again in the Philippines without the lasting results the nation had hoped for. This book is about a revolution that may put an end to all revolutions - a profound change in consciousness, a deeper acceptance and understanding of one’s role as citizen. It is this revolution that Fidel A. Reyes started within me and how he became a hero in a surprisingly personal way during my final years in university. He helped me win the revolution I was fighting within me against my apathy towards the poverty, injustice, and corruption in my own country.
In many ways, my great grandfather saved me and I hope my journey of change stands as a reminder of the great potential we have in each of us to become better citizens. The chapters of this book: Reconnect, Volunteer, Watchdog, Vote, Travel and Empower represent six simple steps we can take to make a difference, following in the footsteps of Filipino nationalist, Fidel A. Reyes.
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| Fidel A. Reyes, 1907 |
