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By Angelique Manalad, Contributor
Bob Ong’s collection of books brings tears to
our eyes—tears of laughter, that is—with his own unique
concoction of reality and humor, “Bakit Baligtad Magbasa Ang Mga
Pilipino?” Mga Kwentong Barbero ni Bob Ong [Why does the Filipino
read in reverse? Barber’s Tales from Bob Ong].
A must-read especially this coming celebration
of our national freedom, the book is a collection of short stories
and essays from different people about the Philippine culture.
Ong begins with a long, light and hearty
“introduction” about the daily routines of a regular Filipino.
Then he transports the readers to a trip back in time. He also
delves into Filipino superstitions and customs, asking the questions
we ourselves asked as children. Comparing the previous practices of
Juan de la Cruz with the present, Ong notes how changed the
Filipinos seem to be, but how somehow old problems still persist.
He entertains the readers with his comical yet
casual recounts of encounters with different faces of a Pinoy. Have
you met the nine types of jeepney drivers? What does the store Petal
Attraction sell? What would Filipinos do if ever the September 11
attack in the US happens here? Ong introduced and given answers to
this not so usual questions but you’ll find yourself knowing the
answers all along after you’ve red it here.
But that’s not all that the book offers. As
one turns its pages, different issues arise—serious issues that
our country chronically experiences. With anecdotes and opinions, he
illustrates how Juan de la Cruz sees to see himself or how he
pretend to be someone else.
Facts and insightful observations give the book
the authority to question some of the flaws of our national
character. But with much irony, Ong also notes the things that buoy
a Filipino’s pride while inciting you to ponder on what it means
to be Filipino.
Delivered in Ong’s trademark satire, the book
entertains while it preaches. He casually instills love for our
culture, pride in our traditions and traits, no matter how queer
they may seem, Ong makes you comfortable in your own skin as you
laugh along with him.
Past generations had generals and novelists for
heroes. The children of these strange times have a satirist to lead
the way. Mabuhay Bob Ong. Mabuhay Philippines.
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