LUCKY 13

Thirteen might be considered an unlucky number. But for the 36 participants of the 1986 Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program, led by their National Leader Virgilio “Gil” de los Reyes, Youth Leader Romeo Glenn Sumido, and Assistant Youth Leader Ma. Carmen Torres, 13 felt lucky because we were chosen as the Philippine youth leaders, representing the country at an important historical juncture. We were the EDSA youth, eager to tell our counterparts in the ASEAN and Japan region of what happened in the 1986 People Power Revolution and to convey, by our words and deeds, the new democratic spirit permeating the land. Reflecting the signs of the times, our Philippine national presentation on board the ship ended with the contingent singing Bayan Ko with raised fists and the EDSA anthem, Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo, with so much heart.

The 1986 SSEAYP journey occupied 59 days, from September 29 to November 26. The Nippon Maru cruised from Tokyo, Japan to Manila, Philippines – the first port of call. It was then followed by stops in the capital cities of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia; Malaysia (where we had 2 ports of call: Penang and Kuala Lumpur); Singapore; and Thailand before heading back to Japan where the trip concluded.

What was memorable in the 1986 program? A lot would say the Philippine country program, which was totally atypical, for it showed the stark realities of Philippine society. For example, part of the PY’s Manila itinerary included a drive through the Smokey Mountain’s garbage dump site and a tour of Malacañang Museum to see Imelda’s famous shoe collection. We had a candle lit dinner reception at the Coconut Palace, not because it was romantic, but because there was no electricity then.  What a contrast!

While heading back to Japan, we met a strong typhoon in the open seas and this caused a one-day delay in our arrival at Tokyo. Because of this, however, the PY’s witnessed a spectacular lava display coming from Mt. Mihara volcanic eruption as Nippon Maru sailed off the coast of Okinawa that evening.  

Aren’t we so lucky that SSEAYP gifted us with an extraordinary experience, made special with local and international friendships forged in this program? Thank you SSEAYP.  The 86 PYs will forever be in your debt. 

Miel Reyes
Batch 1986