'Ang Mga Anak ni San Jose,' dokumentaryo ni Kara David (Full Episode) | I-Witness

Summary

The documentary highlights the profound history of Hospicio de San Jose, the oldest orphanage in the Philippines, established during the Spanish era. It shares the stories of abandoned children, such as Kuya Beda and Kuya Tabo, who grew up in the institution, reflecting on their experiences of abandonment, care, and resilience. Through its unique 'turning cradle' system, the hospicio provided refuge to countless babies. The film underscores the enduring love and family found within, showing that no matter the origins, everyone deserves a home and care. It also emphasizes the impact of the Sisters of Charity in nurturing these children and providing them with new opportunities in life.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Hospicio de San Jose, established in 1853, is the oldest orphanage in the Philippines, named after Saint Joseph, who traveled with Mary to care for the newborn Jesus.
• 😀 The 'turning cradle,' a metal device used from 1853 to 1976, was employed to safely receive abandoned infants, marking the first home for many children.
• 😀 The turning cradle had a bell that would ring when an infant was placed inside, signaling the nuns to collect the baby left by their parents.
• 😀 Over 120 years, the turning cradle served as a safe place for abandoned infants, with detailed records of the babies' conditions and temporary names.
• 😀 From the 1970s, the majority of infants left in the turning cradle were eventually adopted by new families, though some remained in the orphanage.
• 😀 Some children, like Kuya Beda, were not adopted due to health conditions or age, but received care and love from the nuns at the orphanage.
• 😀 Kuya Beda's story highlights the unconditional care provided by the nuns, including treatment for his hydrocephalus, a condition causing fluid buildup in his brain.
• 😀 The Hospicio de San Jose provided a nurturing environment where orphans could grow and feel loved, even without biological parents.
• 😀 Some children, such as Kuya Tabo, struggled with feelings of abandonment, but found a sense of family within the orphanage, supported by the nuns.
• 😀 The orphanage has been a home for many children, including notable figures like former Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim and Father Victor Torres, who once lived there.

Q & A

What is the turning cradle and what purpose did it serve?

The turning cradle was a metal cot used from 1853 to 1976 at the Hospicio de San Jose. It served as a safe place for abandoned infants. Parents could place their babies in the cradle, and a bell would signal the sisters to retrieve the child.

How did the Hospicio de San Jose operate during its early years?

The Hospicio de San Jose, founded during the Spanish era, became a home for abandoned children. It used the turning cradle system for over a century to collect infants left by their parents, sometimes abandoned in unsafe conditions.

What were some of the challenges faced by abandoned infants placed in the turning cradle?

Some infants were left in dangerous situations, such as being placed in a shoebox or even left in the dirt. There are accounts of babies being attacked by ants or left without care in unsafe environments.

How did the sisters of the Hospicio de San Jose care for the abandoned infants?

The sisters provided immediate care for the abandoned babies, including feeding, bathing, and ensuring their health. They even performed medical procedures like draining excess fluid from infants' heads when necessary.

Why was the name 'San Jose' given to the children left at the Hospicio de San Jose?

The name 'San Jose' was given to the children by the sisters. It was not the surname of their biological parents but was chosen because of the association with Saint Joseph, who is considered the protector of children.

What is the emotional impact on children who grow up in the Hospicio de San Jose?

While many children at the Hospicio de San Jose felt loved and cared for, they still experienced sadness and longing when their friends were adopted. Some, like Kuya Beda, had emotional difficulties due to their abandonment but were still deeply attached to the place and the sisters.

What happens to children who are not adopted from the Hospicio de San Jose?

Some children, like Kuya Beda, remained in the Hospicio de San Jose for many years. They found fulfillment in contributing to the community, such as helping the sisters with chores or performing tasks like opening gates or cleaning.

What can be learned from the experiences of people like Kuya Beda and Kuya Tabo?

The stories of Kuya Beda and Kuya Tabo highlight the resilience and strength of those who grow up without biological parents but find love, care, and a sense of belonging in communities like the Hospicio de San Jose.

How has the Hospicio de San Jose adapted to modern needs?

While the turning cradle is no longer in use, the Hospicio de San Jose continues to provide a home for abandoned children. As of 2024, many children are still being cared for, with a significant number finding new families through adoption.

What role do the daughters of charity play in the lives of the children at Hospicio de San Jose?

The daughters of charity provide nurturing care to the children, offering them love, education, and emotional support. They are seen as parental figures to the children, helping them grow and find confidence in themselves.