KA DOROY

Leafing through some old files recently, I came across a copy of a personally-written letter by former (and late) President Marcos to the late Teodoro 'Ka Doroy' Valencia, the dean of Philippine journalists, who was then critically ill at a hospital in 1987. The copy was furnished by newsman Floro Mercene, who was then arranging a birthday celebration for Ka Doroy.

I quote the note verbatim by Marcos:

"To Doroy, intuitive social philosopher whose wisdom is equalled only by wit of his writings and observations, whose comments may keep the journalistic profession tolerable, if not credible, and whose patriotism has greatly helped the moulding of a militant, committed new breed of Filipinos who are like their forebears willing to offer not only health, blood and life as well as their sacred honor. Your memorials are in the hearts of the Filipino people."

The deposed President said, "We will meet again, friend and comrade, and God, I am confident, will bless that day. May God be with you always."

A few days later, on May 4, 1987, Ka Doroy slipped away into eternity.

(Image from http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_N8MQ8O_U8tc/)