It was a fitting way of saying farewell to a man who has served his country and people throughout his life. A gathering of flowers that filled the rooms accentuated by red and yellow roses thoughtfully arranged as symbol of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines. His comrades, internationalist friends, migrants and representatives of parties, movements and mass organizations render honor to this man who turned his back from a life of privilege to be among the people and joined them in their struggle against the enemy who keeps them shackled to a life of poverty and misery.
Testimonials to Ka Louie’s work were delivered at the official program during his wake. But there were also the narratives as they remember him in conversations. Those who attended Ka Louie’s wake and cremation came from different paths of life but brought together to render homage and gratitude to the gentle man who imparted such lessons of love and compassion, courage, respect and yes, how to carry on the revolution despite the seeming strength of the exploiters and oppressors.
A comrade from Cyprus spoke of Ka Louie’s smile, how even when he spoke of the hardships and continuing struggle of the Filipino people you will see the smile on Ka Louie’s face, a smile that signifies hope that the Filipino people’s revolution will be victorious. A smile that shows sincerity. And as one hears him speak, the smiling face comes to you and you can’t help but whisper, “Thank you, Ka Louie”!
Another foreign comrade said she felt such sadness and great loss. With Ka Louie’s passing she has lost another close friend and comrade with whom she could discuss and seek clarity on political and ideological issues. For Ka Louie is the patient comrade always ready to listen to what you have to say and answer your questions as best as he could.
A young Filipino activist did a special rap for her Tito Louie. It was a beautiful rap tribute for a man who welcomed her and her family to The Netherlands and guided her political awakening.
“I’m your child, your daughter
Who fights by your side, couldn’t ask for more
It’s crazy out here but my soul is secure
Because I carry your love, and that’s how I endure
And I hope you believe me
I’m your legacy, your cover, your remix
If that’s a hell of a challenge then so be it
Like you, I’ll rise and fight and pass on the fire!”
Like any Filipino wake, simple food was served. Kababayans made sandwiches, pasta, native delicacies, fresh and fried springrolls. Upon being thanked, they replied, “No need to thank us. This is the least we could do for Tito/Ka Louie. He always made us feel welcome. We admired his humility.“
Today, we remember and honor a man who was so much more than the titles he held or the roles he played in the public eye.
To the world, Tito Louie may have been a figure of political stature—a man who stood tall in service, guided by principles and duty. But to us, his family, he was simply our Tito Louie: a man of quiet strength, warm laughter, and a heart that never stopped giving.Despite the demands of his position, he never let go of the most important thing to him—his family. His happiest moments were not in the spotlight, but around the dinner table, sharing stories, giving hugs, or just being present. He loved deeply, gave generously, and asked for little in return.
A niece of Ka Louie spoke of her Tito Louie as family.
More than anything, he longed to return to his native soil—to walk the paths of his childhood, breathe in the familiar air, and feel truly at home. Though he may not have gotten the chance to go back in body, we believe his spirit is finally here now – at peace, and whole.
Indeed, when one hears the name Luis “Ka Louie” Jalandoni, what comes to mind is an excellent internationalist, peace negotiator, the international representative and ambassador extraordinaire of the Philippine revolutionary movement. Yes, Luis Jalandoni was all of these. But what he truly cherished most was his experience working with the toiling masses like the peasants and sacadas of Negros and the striking workers of La Tondena; standing side by side with them as they fight for the right to a decent life, to improve their situation and ensure a better future for their children. To them he was Ka Louie, a beloved comrade.
