To my Granddad, Lolo Rex, on his 100th Birthday
/My grandfather, Virgilio P. Reyes, Sr. served as Press Secretary to President Diosdado Macapagal (1963-64), Minister-Counsellor at the Philippine Mission to the UN(NYC, 1965-66) and News Editor of the Manila Chronicle(circa 1957-1959). On June 18, the De La Salle BNS Creative Writing Center sponsors a book launch of “We Remember Rex@100” for his hundredth birth anniversary on July 5 written by his loved ones and friends as well as a poetry reading by renowned Filipino poets and artists.
Virgilio P. Reyes (Photo from passport)
In foreground, Press Secretary Virgilio “Rex” Reyes leading the way to a press conference for President Diosdado Macapagal (to his left) and cabinet members, circa 1964.
I wish to identify those characteristics which he possessed which allowed him to reach those heights. Looking not only at what he did, but how he was, here are the lessons I draw from his life. that I’d like to pass on to my child.
First, you do not need to be verbose; but speak up for what you believe is right, and when you do, speak succinctly, speak with gravitas, and speak with integrity. His children and colleagues noted that Rex was soft spoken, but on the job he was, “tense, terse, taciturn,” as he gave, “body to the commentary of [the Chronicle’s] editorial bylines.” Notably, his colleagues recognized that, “[a]bove all, Rex was neither cocky nor conceited and believe you me, modesty is a rare virtue among members of media.” However, when needed, he broke the stoicism and spoke loudly. Certainly, he spoke volumes when he helped employees unionize to combat unfair labor practices at the paper, going so far as to quit his position at the paper in June of 1958.
Lesson: It is not the volume or the number of words said, it is the quality of your statements.
Second, work hard toward your goals; apply your intelligence, and the returns will abound and astound.
Rex was dedicated to his studies. As a student, he finished high school in three years, and in college once wrote as self- inspiration, “Magna cum laude or bust!” In his professional career, he worked tirelessly, coming home often after midnight from the job. Finally, he combined his intelligence with social skills to craft his career. Evidence of this convergence of diligence and intelligence manifested itself in the natural leader he became. One need not look further than the February 3, 1963 Official Presidential Week in Review where a resolution was presented “to the President, endorsing acting Press Secretary Virgilio Reyes as permanent Press Secretary on the ground that he had been a newspaperman of ‘good and long standing.’ The press photographers said that the acting Press Secretary “understands the problems of the press and enjoys the confidence of his fellow craftsmen.”
Giving interviews to foreign journalists in Malacañang
Lesson: Combine your commitment and intellect and nothing can stop you reaching what you set out to accomplish.
Third, take time to nurture a sense of humor and keep family in your thoughts and deeds.
Rex loved puns, a trait shared by the Reyes family. His sister remarked that he would first scan the morning paper for the comics. Several accounts demonstrate that while he was dedicated to his job, he always took time to make sure he showed those closest to him that he loved them. This often took the form of delivering treats such as giving his sister Neneng her favorite Toasted Almond chocolate bar, or bringing back for the family late night siopao, pancit or buchi, a box of chicken or a brick of Magnolia ice cream. He also took time to go on family outings and provide guidance to his children. Perhaps the most endearing evidence of his impact is that 45 years after his passing, he is still remembered by those who loved him.
A reflection of the lasting legacy that my grandfather left behind, shimmers in the endeavors, accomplishments, and personalities of his children who were and are driven communicators and lovers of language. I can only hope that mine can mirror his example.
Paul-Philippe Reyes, Esq., is the son of Ambassador and Mrs.Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. and is married to fellow lawyer Meghan Towers, with whom he has one daughter. They are fond of canines, the outdoors, travelling and fine and home-cooked cuisine.
