12 November 2007 | Vol. 7, No. 3

Hunger

by ZOSIMO QUIBILAN, JR.

Beloved General,

Sir, I remain faithful that you will still grant this request to charge. My men and I are still waiting for the enemy's attack on this promontory in Batangas, but it seems they, too, have lost their strength. Every night, we keep watch over that part of Manila, Cavite, and Laguna that is engulfed in flames. We know, as the fire gets closer, your arrival also nears.

It's been almost a year since we had a decent meal. The trees have all been felled. The grass has refused to grow back. One night, after scrounging for food nearby, I was paralyzed by the glowing headland. Lieutenant Tiago and I were blinded by the white glares of my men's eyes.

We are ready any time you require our help. This responsibility still beats in our hearts. We can still wait