This video is must see for all Filipinos. Specially those, like me, have no recollection of the Philippines when it was the 2nd wealthiest nation in Asia, after Japan.  Citizens of other countries, like Henry Sy Sr ( a Chinese-Filipino who became one of the wealthiest man in the world) is a poor boy then from China migrated to the Philippines in search for a better future. He found his future and grew his business empire  here. He and his family kept believing in the potential of the Philippines despite criticism from other Filipinos who gave up and migrated to another country.

The Philippines was envied by other Asian nations then. Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan and South Korea don’t ring a bell during those times.

Look at how developed we were before the 2nd World War. No wonder Japan invaded us despite the fact that  Manila is supposed to be an open city.

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A view of Manila Bay, then

On Sept. 21, the Philippines will once again remember the declaration of martial law on 1972 by then President Ferdinand Marcos. This is not a political post, though, just wanna share my recollection of the Philippines circa 70s, as I remember martial law from the eyes of a small kid.

MUSIC

Tunog Maynila, in my opinion, is the golden years and the best of OPM, so far. Pinoy songs are highly appreciated then, be it rock, pop, disco or love songs. We have Boyfriends,  local version of Bee Gees. Hagibis, local version of Village People.  And we have legendary rock groups like  Juan Dela Cruz Band and Hotdogs. Not to be lef behind are VST and Co. , Cinderella, Asin, Apo Hiking Society. Known solo performers then are Sampaguita, , Mike Hanopol, Hadji Alejandro, Basil Valdez, Leah Navarro, Imelda Papin, Rico J. Puno and Claire Dela Fuente. Songs from these artists bring back good memories of the past

ANIME

Our generations’ anime are Voltes V, Mazinger Z, Daimos, Speedy Gonzales, Ballatac, Super Friends (Justice League now). Most of these cartoon shows were banned by Marcos because it affected daw the study habits of children. We also look forward to RPN 9’s Saturday Fun Machine, a marathon of cartoon show.

SPORTS

Even as a child, I was able to follow the rivalry of Crispa and Toyota of the old PBA. A golden, year, I would say of the PBA. I also recalled that Ali and Frazier fought at Araneta Coliseum dubbed as “thrilla in Manila.

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