Office of Barangay Affairs Iloilo City

It is truly humbling to know that my memoir, “Nobody but Jerry,” has also reached Mayor Jonathan John Khonghun of Subic Zambales.

Happy Reading, Mayor! 💙

Why the color orange

You would often meet Migo Tom, the monk of the Esplanade.

I first met him during lockdown, when everything felt quiet and slowed down. Since then, seeing him along the river has become one of those familiar, calming moments.

He is often seen walking gently or simply standing by the Esplanade, observing the river and the world passing by.

Many of us notice his bright orange robe right away. It stands out against the green trees and the calm green waters of the river.

Why the color orange?

Long ago, monks used simple cloth, often discarded fabric, dyed with natural colors from plants, roots, and bark. This created the warm shade of orange we now associate with monastic life.

Orange became a symbol of simplicity, humility, and letting go.

Letting go of excess.
Letting go of noise.
Letting go of the rush of everyday life.

So when you see Migo Tom in his orange robe along the Esplanade, it is more than just color.

It is a quiet reminder.

To slow down.
To live simply.
To just be.