JONG SUMANGIL(original song) HANGGANG MATAPOS

An original composition by Uncle Jong Sumangil which later recorded by the 5th Gear ...

Alchoholism, a Disease!

It was found that my uncle was drunk when the accident happened. They (together with another relative who drove the vehicle) was on their way home from a party (Christmas) that night...

When I was still in my late 20's, in one occasion, I remember uncle and I drinking together in our living room. There were other cousins and friends with us but had slowly gone home one-by-one since it was already past midnight. I did not drink that much not because I can't but because I didn't want to. Not my cup of tea. I just accompanied him until the wee hours in the morning. I just can't leave and disappoint him that night. I know, he wanted to be with me since I only visit my hometown once in a while. Sometimes, just once a year--Christmas. Good thing there was this videoke that kept me awake. Uncle was a good singer. He managed to get high scores despite his drunkenness. We just sang and drank between our conversations. The music of Matt Monro, Engelbert Humperdick and the like.... Those were his favorite singers...

Uncle have been drinking as far as I could remember. Was he an alcoholic? I don't think so because he only drinks occasionally. But when he drinks, he would really end up drunk.

A lot of individuals die each day due to heavy drinking (that end up quarelling and killing each other) or accidents caused by so much intoxication, or alcohol complications or alcoholism.

Is alcoholism a disease? If so, it is the only disease that is contracted by an act of the will. It is the only disease that requires a license to propagate it. It is the only disease that is bottled and sold. It is the only disease that is habit- forming. It is the only disease that is spread by advertising. It is the only disease that is given for a Christmas present... (Peter Ream)