Carl Elliot

Kids,


Let me tell you this: I want you to embrace the Kapampangan and Filipino Culture as you grow up. Its not because I am 75 percent Kapampangan and 100 percent Filipino, but because the culture is very rich and colorful. The legends told, the music played, the rhythms danced and the talents showed are endless. You should be proud of your roots.


It was December 3, 2011 when your Aunt Fenella treated us for a Kapampangan musical play entitled Kalaryot. 

The folklore was set during the Filipino-American War in the country specifically in the province of Pampanga. The American Major James Elliot and his wife had a son named Carl Elliot. But the Kapampangan soldiers invaded the camp of Major Elliot and  took Carl Elliot. One of the soldiers adopted Carl Elliot, which they soon called KALARYOT. Kalaryot grew up like a true Kapampangan man. Major Elliot on the other hand thought that his son was killed by the Kapampangan rebels. 

The one in costume is the guy who played Major James Elliot--He's a very good actor, very natural and realistic. 

Because of the war, the parents who adopted Kalaryot were killed by the Americans. During the same day, his girlfriend was also killed. Kalaryot, because of his anger, planned for a revenge against the enemies until he became infamous for the Americans. Because of this, Major Elliot wanted Kalaryot's head. Guess what, the Americans succeeded. Kalaryot was beheaded. Major Elliot, little did he know that Kalaryot is also Carl Elliot, his son. He was regretful that he was the one who killed his only son. 


Kids, to be honest, I am clueless about this folklore. When I got home, I asked your great grandmother if they knew something about this. She told me that when she was little the term Kalaryot was used by their parents to scare them. Kalaryot is indeed a man with no head. If you read this and it scared you, you are allowed to sleep in our room tonight with your mom. *winks*


But, as I've said, this is just an urban legend and you have nothing to fear about. But if this is a true story, remain to be proud and enjoy the freedom that we have all because of the courageous Filipino soldiers who fought for our country. With that, be courageous as well and do not fear anything. The Bible says in 1 John 4:18 that perfect love cast out all fears...and that is God's love and my love for you.


I love you kids. Goodnight and Sweet dreams. 


Love, 


Your Dad


P.S. Kalaryot has a "sidekick" named Damian. He is our favorite character because of his humor--the stereotype sidekick!