Abundant Blessings
Planting Rice
By Romeo Honorio
Planting …
9000 years ago, along the Yangtze River in China
Domesticated leafy grass, named Oryza Sativa
Dominant crop planted in the farmlands of Asia
Staple food from Batanes, Manila to Zamboanga
Carefully planted in levelled and flooded paddy
Back, arms, knees - movement in great harmony
Roots must be mud-covered, so strong and free
Elements of pure art, depicting nature’s mystery
When grains turned golden, comes harvesting
Same back, arms, knees – in different rhythm
Bone-dry paddy echoes harvesters’ humming
Whistles and melodies in harmony so untiring
End products are unique, enticing and many
Sweet scented cake, star menu of the party
Seaweed-encased, portioned, sticky sushi
Then a sip of that clear and silk-smooth saki
Filipinos also roast, brew to a great tasting coffee
Noodle, comfort-food ingredient and allergen free
Pop wheat, corn and Oryza we stack in the pantry
To a plant-based milk formula, amazingly so tasty
Have more of it, though, will surely attract
Ms. Diabetes, her cousins, clan and pack
Moderation is key, keeping health on track
A reliable food, energy giving wonder crop
… Rice
By Romeo Honorio
May 15, 2025
Kath Beredo
Kath Beredo-Endaya is deeply inspired by the beauty of nature. Her artistic journey has been marked by recognition and achievements, including winning the grand prize in Sining Galing in 2003 and first place in the Agri-Leap Painting Competition in 2004. In 2006, she participated in a Guinness World Record attempt for the longest painting—a project under UNESCO’s International Mid-Decade Celebration for the Culture of Peace & Non-Violence for the Children of the World. Her paintings, influenced by lush landscapes and vibrant flora, blend natural elements with her unique artistic vision.
Kath, a former art teacher in the Philippines, has also participated in several group exhibitions both locally and abroad. Recent art exhibitions include “La mode en moi” Espace Nesle, Paris (October 2024), Filipino Artists Guild Europe Moers, Germany (November 2024), “Intercultural fashion and art exhibit” Melle, Germany (March 2025), and “La mode en moi” at the Embassy of the Philippines in The Hague, Netherlands (March 2025). Kath earned her Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of the Philippines, Diliman, in 2010. Her work has been collected both locally and internationally, allowing her to share her art with a diverse audience. Now based in Canada, Kath continues to pursue her career as a visual artist and educator, balancing both professional roles with dedication.
“Nature awakens a sense of calm and inspiration in my heart, and I aim to share that tranquil beauty with my viewers.”-Kath Beredo
Romeo Honorio
Director: Diary of Allbertans Society and Allbertans Mindfulness Society.
Contributor: Alberta Filipino Journal | Alberta Chronicle | Taliba
Author: Open Visa | Covid-19 Fundemic | Fundemic Moments
Resource person | Speaker
