Speaking at the gathering, Anakpawis Representative Rafael Mariano said of Ka Roda, “Hindi matatawaran ang nagpapatuloy na papel ni Ka Roda sa pagsigla ng kilusang manggagawa at mala-manggagawa sa ating bansa. Kung pag-uusapan ang pagpupundar ng KMU at Piston, hindi mawawaglit ang bahagi ni Ka Roda” (Ka Roda’s continuing role in strengthening the movements of workers and the semi-proletariat in our country cannot be downplayed. If we are to talk about planting the seeds of KMU and Piston, we cannot miss Ka Roda’s part.)
Anakpawis Rep. Rafael Mariano sings “Patak ng Ulan” in a tribute to Medardo Roda. (Photo by Ronalyn Olea)
Mariano said that even during the “storm in the national democratic movement”, Ka Roda stood by the principles of national democracy and struggled against the reformists who peddled right and left opportunism and urban insurrection.
Warm, cheerful
Soluta described Ka Roda, “Hindi nauubusan ng kuwento, magiliw.” (He would never run out of stories, he is cheerful). He even recalled one of Ka Roda’s favorite jokes.
Araullo said that despite debates between Piston and Bayan regarding certain tactical campaigns, Ka Roda remained warm and cheerful. She said Ka Roda does not take political contradictions personally.
During the entire program, Ka Roda sat in front of the stage. Many times, he would comment on the speeches.
When Soluta said he is cheerful, Ka Roda quickly added, “Madaldal” (Talkative.)
When a member of Tambisan sa Sining, KMU’s cultural group, was explaining their songs, Ka Roda jokingly said, “Kanta na” (Just sing it). Tambisan sa Sining sang “Walang Hanggang Paalam” and “Aanhin”.
While Mariano was singing “Patak ng Ulan”, the man sitting next to him asked him if he, too, is a good singer. Ka Roda replied, “Oo nama.” (Of course).
After the People’s Chorale sang two of his favorite love songs, “Moon River” and “Around the World”, Ka Roda said, “’Sumulong Ka, Anakpawis!’ naman”
Mariano recited Ka Roda’s favorite lines, “Public office is a public trust.” “Sovereignty resides in the people…”
Ka Roda quickly added, “…and all government authority emanates from them.” Ka Roda memorized certain sections of the Philippine Constitution, citing these whenever arguing with the authorities.
Ka Roda’s spirit has remained the same even as he is now confined to a wheel chair. He suffered two strokes in 2002 and 2003.
Outpouring of love
Members of the Concerned Drivers and Operators for Reforms (CONDOR), the Piston chapter in the Bicol region, sang to him “Sarong Banggi”.
Southern Tagalog activists performed a poem about the drivers’ plight.
Four women members of the People’s Chorale serenaded Ka Roda with songs, “Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka” and “Kung Tayo’y Matanda Na.”
Sison also sang to him an Ilocano folk song via the video.
Ka Roda’s grand daughters Rica, Nica and Bea offered two songs to their grandfather.
When asked to deliver a speech, Ka Roda said, this time, seriously, “Kung makakatayo uli ako, maglilingkod pa rin ako sa drayber at mamamayang Pilipino” (If I could stand again, I would still serve drivers and the Filipino people.)
Undoubtedly, he is the most loved driver. His love for others, too, is boundless. (Bulatlat.com)
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