Alejo Ayyafin Manao

Alejo Manao AKA Alex Manao was born in the Natonin province of the Philippines. He is one of the sons of the Natonin headhunter Chief Camarong. The actual date of birth and year is unknown due to the head hunter tribe not using calendars or dates. While missionary's were visiting the village Alejo was taken to town to study under the missionary's in town. Alejo was later drafted by the military to fight against the Japanese forces and became a 45 caliber sharp shooter. Late 1942 Alejo was later caught and held in detention by the Japanese. This event was later called the Bataan Death March. Alejo was later rescued by United States and Philippine forces. Alejo Manao was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery.

Alejo Manao acquired raw lands and became a farmer and cattle settler. Alejo Manao found him-self restless and eager to help the Igorot People of Bontoc Mountain Province. But his natural interest in public matters his solicitude for welfare for his fellowmen and his in born sense of leadership turned his attention to public affairs and public office. Helping and assisting the fellow people of Bontoc. Late 1964 Alejo Manao campaigned sleeplessly for weeks on behalf of Diosdado Macapagal re-run for presidency. With the small segment of leaders in the political world, the people of the Cordillera area stood behind Alejo Manao with respect, trust and support. With the enthusiastic and genuinely friendly attitude Alejo Manao radiates a sincere passion for delivering value and benefits to not only his people but also to his leaders that Diosdado Macapagal was the right choice. Mountain Province became an independent province on March 25, 1967. During that time Alejo Manao was also awarded the status of Grand-Knight of the Knights of Columbus which he held in high regards. At the time Bontoc was a third class municipality of Mountain Province. Alejo Manao was elected as a board member of Bontoc on April 7, 1967. Then in 1971 Alejo Manao was elected to be the Vice Governor of Mountain Province where he served the people’s matters honorably.

Alejo and Luz left Bontoc Mountain Province to visit with their daughters Teodora Manao Palma and Ruth Manao Mones who lived in the United States. While Alejo and Luz were visiting they decided to make the United Sates their home. While in the United States Alejo and Luz collected shoes and clothing to send back to the sons and daughters of Bontoc. Alejo and Abraham united again in Lancaster, California where they lived several rooms apart. The tales of natives adapting and reforming to modern day life can go on forever. Alejo was a fast learner and adapted to his surrounding quickly.

Alejo Manao died in the year of 2000 in his daughter’s home. The immediate family did not want to tell Christian Manao-Palma the favorite grandson of Alejo what had happened, but it was later revealed. Alejo Manao’s body was shipped and accompanied by his grandson back to Bontoc Mountain Province where he was laid to rest watching over the beautiful rice terraces and the people of Bontoc Mountain Province. Before the actual burial, tribes from all over the province as far as a week’s walk came to see Alejo Manao in person to pay their respects. Ancient chants and dances of all types from all different tribes were preformed. Alejo Manao’s son Glen has been following in his father’s footsteps. He shares the same vision and goal Alejo had. All being done in remembrance of a great Vice governor, board member and family member. The Palma and Manao family closed the streets in front of the well known Manao house to feed the people of Bontoc Mountain Province. A total of two wild hogs and 1 cow were butchered. Christian Manao-Palma bought all the bread in the local bakery and all the Coke in the mini store next to the chicken butcher, across the street from the Manao House.

LINKS: [http://www.slideshare.net/joelfagsao/mountain-province-facts-and-fi... Province Facts & Figures