Felipe de las Casas

(A full-length play)

Synopsis:

Felipe de las Casas is a young Mexican merchant working for his family in Manila in the Manila–Acapulco Galleon Trade toward the close of the 16th century. He leads an easy life until he is gravely wounded in a tavern fight. He recovers from his wound and learns that his friend Antonio has saved his life. At the same time, he discovers a vocation to the Franciscan Order, which he enters. A few months later, his friend Antonio dies, and Felipe is stricken with guilt for not having brought him back to the sacraments. He progresses in piety, penance, and good works but is haunted by the fear that Antonio is in hell.

In his fourth year in the Order, Felipe goes to Mexico to be ordained. His galleon is blown off course, and he finds himself in Japan. He is caught in the persecution of Christians that breaks out in 1596. He is to die by crucifixion, but not before he realizes that his fears for Antonio may have their basis in a subtle form of pride and that, on the other hand, he has been neglecting a much deeper gratitude to God Himself.

Theatre Productions:

First produced in 1983 at the Puerta de Reina Isabel, Intramuros, Manila.

Director: Nonon Padilla

Not published.