By: Jason Maghanoy
I heard of the larger than life, and at times controversial figure in the Filipino community. The political prisoner. The dynamic writer, charmer and leader, committed to helping Filipino’s build a strong cultural identity in Canada. When I visit my aunt’s house I would see the accolades hanging on the wall: awards for his journalism and leadership through Balita; achievement awards; photos with MP’s, councillors, presidents, and prime ministers.
He was a strong voice for Filipino’s everywhere. He was challenging.
And I admired him very much.
The Ruben that I knew was the man humbled by a tragic accident that took away his ability to walk and speak. I did not know the legend. I knew the quiet, but joyful, and very devoted partner to my aunt, Tess Cusipag. Ruben was confined to a wheelchair. And when I visited he would laugh and say hello. I would hug him and ask how he was and he would always give me a thumbs up.
Still. I knew that underneath his verbal and physical limitations, the same mind was there. The same dynamic mind that wrote provocative articles in Balita designed to challenge the community to strive for something better.
Like Ruben, I am a writer. I write stories, articles and plays. I have seen my work published in magazines, in book form, and I have seen my plays performed across Canada, Tokyo, and upcoming this fall, in New York City. I started writing for Balita early in my writing career. And when I did, Ruben let me know what he thought of my work with simple gestures. A yes and a thumbs up when I endorsed Jack Layton and the New Democrats in the Federal Election.
A stern no and shaking of his head when I wrote a hopeful congratulations to George W. Bush after he won his first presidential election.
A frustrated sigh when I defended the war in Iraq, only to approve later on when I realized I was wrong and wrote two anti-war plays about the conflict, both of which were published. And yes, Ruben and Tess bought multiple copies of my book to support me.
Writing for Balita helped me develop my craft as a writer. It helped me find my voice as an artist. It helped me find out what I was about.
I was grateful for the opportunity. And for Ruben’s trust that my voice would be a positive addition to his publication.
I loved the Ruben that I knew.
And this takes me to Tess Cusipag.
Her strength in taking care of Ruben for so many years was simply amazing. But at the same time I am not surprised. They had a true partnership, one built on love, creativity, and a passion for helping strengthen the Filipino Community by challenging it. Pushing it. And demanding more.
I am proud that Tess is continuing the legacy of Balita.
It’s a lot of work.
And she is a special woman.
There’s something about losing someone that’s so…
You miss them. You love them even more. But at the same time they find a place for themselves in your heart. They stay there. You feel them. And in the end, you’re never really alone.
Thank you for everything Uncle Ruben. You are in my heart.
And I am a part of your great legacy.****