`This discussion thread is proof that any statements about the Philippines must consider the source. Vera Cruz, I would bet a substantial amount that you are less than 45 years old. This means that you were taught history from textbooks that were written just as Imelda Marcos ordered them rewritten. You are just as polarized towards a Filipino point of view as other contributors are towards a Spanish or American point of view. If you have been to Mactan where Magellen landed then you have seen the three historical markers there (if they haven't been removed). The Spanish marker states ``This is where Magellen discovered the Philippines``. The American marker states, ``This is where Magellen landed in the Philippines``. The third marker is from the Philippine Historical Society stating, ``This is where Magellen invaded the Philippines``.  I am an American but I was raised most of my life in the Philippines. I speak several dialects fluently. My education is completely Filipino. I lived in Basilan, Zamboanga, Davao, Tacloban, Ormoc, Cebu, Naga, Legaspi, Manila, Tagatay, Cavite, Paranaque,Angeles and Baguio.   I worked for many companies. I started the GM dealership network, designed the PCMP, Metro Manila Taxi Program and was on the team that convinced the World Bank to come to the Philippines. Cplleges still use case studies about some of my marketing plans for San Miguel, Coke and Colgate. I developed the Filipino Labor Export Program and took the first major skilled labor crew to the Middle East. I worked on many economic development programs for President Marcos.  I am 59 and I was alive during a time when some of the key players of the Philippines after WWII were still around. I had the opportunity not only to meet them but to document their stories.  So, am I right about your age? Can you deterine my name? Could you please tell me what you know about Harry Stonehill? Where does the Filipino nickname ``Boy`` came from? Where did the family name ``Cruze`` originate? Can you define five distinct Filipino sociological characteristics like ``utang na laoob``?   Not to single you out but your comment adds nothing to the accurracy of Filipino history and it detracts from the credibility of other Filipino contributors.     `