The Distinctive MALAHAY Family by Galileo Oral Malahay Lim

Introduction: Unraveling the Enigmatic Origins of the Malahay Family Name

The Malahay family name carries an intriguing history, intricately woven through the life of a single individual. I consider myself fortunate to have personally heard two versions of this captivating story from my uncles, Reverend Walter Malahay and Reverend Chris Malahay. Each uncle offered a unique account, shedding light on the origins of our family name from their individual perspectives and adding a personal touch to the narrative. However, despite their contributions, the story remains veiled in mystery, leaving a profound sense of intrigue and unanswered questions that deepen its allure.

The information I present here draws from the recollections of my two uncles, Reverend Walter Malahay and his younger brother, Reverend Chris Malahay. While both have shared the tale of Francisco Malahay, there are variations in their retellings. Nonetheless, I place greater trust in the narrative provided by Reverend Walter Malahay, being the eldest among eight siblings and having resided with our family until his passing in 2000. In contrast, Reverend Chris Malahay lived in the United States and only made sporadic visits, occurring approximately once every decade. It was during one of Reverend Chris Malahay's visits that I had the opportunity to engage him in a conversation about Francisco Malahay. It was during this exchange that he disclosed everything he had heard from his father, Reverend Enrique Malahay, who also happened to be my grandfather.

Walter Malahay’s Version

The father of Francisco Malahay, whose given name was unknown to Uncle Walter, originated from Bohol. His surname was Himoya or Gimoya. He had gained notoriety as a wanted criminal by the Spanish authorities, prompting him to flee Bohol and eventually reach Negros Island. Initially, he settled in a village located in what is now known as Vallehermoso. However, once news of a wanted man named Himoya reached the authorities in Vallehermoso, he deemed it necessary to relocate once again, ultimately finding a new home in Guihulngan.

Blessed with a natural talent for farming, Francisco Malahay's father flourished, acquiring extensive tracts of land that stretched from the tranquil shorelines to the seemingly infinite mountains. As he wandered through his vast property on foot, he often found himself overcome by the sheer vastness and repetitive nature of his surroundings. The overwhelming monotony left him with an intense sensation of profound boredom, prompting him to coin the term “Malaay.” This word, which conveys a sense of tedium, ennui, and weariness, perfectly encapsulated his state of mind. Aware of his status as a wanted individual, he made a conscious decision to adopt “Malaay” as his surname, thereby cementing his unique identity in the world.

When the Spanish authorities undertook a census of the inhabitants of Guihulngan, they approached Francisco's father and inquired about his family name. He promptly replied, “Malaay.” However, due to the language barrier or perhaps a miscommunication, the Spanish official misunderstood and responded, “Ah, Malahay.” Surprisingly, Francisco's father found himself drawn to the new pronunciation and decided to embrace it as his permanent surname. And so, the origin of the Malahay surname came into being, stemming from this fortuitous encounter and linguistic twist. When Francisco was born, he already carried the surname Malahay. Therefore, anyone who bears the family name Malahay is considered a relative by blood.

Papa Waltz, or Reverend Walter Malahay as we fondly called him, was a cherished figure in our family. However, he failed to elaborate about the specifics surrounding the circumstances of Francisco Malahay's father's passing.

Chris Malahay’s Version

The root of the Malahay surname is truly distinctive, as it traces back to the singular individual named Francisco Malahay, whose ancestral lineage remains shrouded in uncertainty. The narratives surrounding Francisco Malahay have been passed down solely through oral tradition, lacking tangible evidence to validate their accuracy.

According to the narratives shared by Reverend Chris Malahay, Francisco's origins can be traced back to Bohol. His original surname was Himoya or Gimoya. Interestingly, Francisco had a twin brother whose name remains unknown to the Malahay family. It is believed that a conflict between the two brothers led Francisco to make the decision to leave Bohol behind. He initially settled in Cebu for a brief period before crossing the strait to Negros Island. Ultimately, Francisco established his new residence in a village known as Patun-an, which was a part of San Carlos.

Due to his strong inclination towards farming, Francisco was able to accumulate extensive tracts of land, eventually attaining considerable wealth and earning the moniker “Don Eco.” His affluence and reputation quickly spread, gaining recognition not only among the local community but also reaching the ears of people in neighboring areas. In due course, news of his success somehow reached his estranged twin brother.

Possibly driven by a mix of jealousy and a desire to reconcile, Francisco's twin brother decided to seek him out in Negros. However, unbeknownst to his twin brother, Francisco harbored deep-seated resentment towards him. Upon receiving news of his twin brother's impending visit, Francisco's emotions overwhelmed him, prompting an immediate departure from Patun-an. He journeyed south and eventually settled in Guihulngan, severing any chance of a reunion between the estranged sibling.

During this part of the story, Uncle Chris did not provide any explanation as to why Francisco's twin brother did not follow him to Guihulngan. Unfortunately, this vital information continues to elude us, leaving a significant gap in the narrative. It seems that the reason behind his brother's decision will forever remain a mystery, enveloped in the shadows of the past.

Before I continue with my story, it's important to acknowledge the significant difference between the accounts of Francisco Malahay's life as shared by Papa Waltz (Reverend Walter Malahay) and Papa Ando (Reverend Chris Malahay). Sadly, with the passing of both of these beloved individuals, there is no way to bridge or resolve the disparity between their recollections.

From Farming to Fortune: The Rise of “Cabeza Eco“

Again, with Francisco's unwavering passion for farming, he tirelessly cultivated the land, expanding his agricultural empire to encompass vast tracts of land that stretched as far as the eyes could see. Through his dedication and expertise, he transformed barren fields into fertile landscapes teeming with life.

As the fruits of Francisco's labor flourished, so did his wealth and influence. The villagers could not help but admire his success and the remarkable transformation he had brought to their community. Francisco became a prominent figure, renowned for his agricultural prowess and commitment to sustainable practices.

In recognition of his achievements, the people affectionately bestowed upon him the title of “Cabeza Eco,” a term that encapsulated his role as the ecological leader of the village. Francisco's eco-friendly farming methods had not only yielded bountiful harvests but also contributed to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of the community.

Under Francisco's guidance, the village thrived. He shared his knowledge freely with fellow farmers, encouraging them to adopt sustainable techniques and embrace the importance of ecological balance. His generosity extended beyond the boundaries of his land, as he actively participated in community projects, promoting education and advocating for environmental conservation.

As Cabeza Eco, Francisco's influence reached far beyond the village. He became a source of inspiration for other farming communities, who sought to emulate his success and adopt his environmentally friendly practices. Francisco's dedication to sustainable farming and his ability to amass vast lands had transformed him into an emblem of prosperity and stewardship.

Despite the adoration and popularity he garnered, Francisco remained humble and grounded. He recognized that his achievements were not solely his own but the result of the collective efforts of the community. With his wealth and influence, he continued to invest in the well-being of the villagers, supporting local businesses and initiatives that aimed to uplift the entire community.

Francisco's story serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion, hard work, and sustainable practices. His journey from a humble farmer to Cabeza Eco not only brought prosperity to his own life but also improved the lives of those around him. Through his unwavering commitment to farming and environmental stewardship, Francisco left a lasting legacy that would inspire generations to come.

During one of his visits to oversee his sprawling properties, Francis had a serendipitous encounter with a young girl named Norberta Campos from a humble village in Jimalalud. Their connection was instant, and it didn't take much time for their hearts to intertwine. In the blink of an eye, Francis and Norberta found themselves united in the sacred bond of marriage, embarking on a beautiful journey of love, companionship, and shared dreams.

According to the stories passed down by my two uncles, Norberta Campos was said to be the granddaughter of the indigenous King of Negros, affectionately known as “Manongsong.” Although this lineage adds a fascinating layer to Norberta's background, exploring the intricacies of this tale would require a separate and extensive narrative, which I'm unable to fully elaborate on at this moment.

Francisco and Norberta were blessed with a beautiful family, raising ten children together. Among them, my beloved grandfather, Reverend Enrique Malahay, held the special place of being the youngest. However, it's important to acknowledge that before Francisco met Norberta, he had a child with another woman outside of wedlock. This child, although the eldest among Francisco's offspring, was not able to bear the esteemed name of Malahay due to the prevailing societal conventions of that time. Instead, the child carried the mother's family name, Montejar, as was customary in such circumstances.

My two uncles, particularly Papa Waltz, shared captivating stories about Francisco and certain members of his family. One intriguing tale revolved around Francisco's remarkable skill in bolo fighting, which earned him great admiration among many. Another remarkable aspect was the superhuman strength exhibited by the brothers Dorotheo Malahay, the eldest, and Enrique Malahay, the youngest. However, for now, I will shift the focus to recounting how Francisco and his family embraced the Protestant faith.

Conversion to Protestantism

The journey of the Malahay family's conversion to Protestantism originated with brothers Victorino, Restituto, and Enrique. This account differed from the narrative shared by Papa Ando, introducing a fresh perspective. However, the version presented by Papa Waltz found support in the testimony of Judge Jose Malahay Estacion, Jr., who was the son of Victorino Malahay. Furthermore, the Estacion family still possesses tangible evidence that validates this version of events.

Francisco Malahay, a devout Catholic believer, had made a firm decision to groom Victorino, Restituto, and Enrique for the priesthood. The three brothers embarked on a transformative journey, traveling to Iloilo to immerse themselves in seminary life and pursue their religious studies. Little did they know that their time at the seminary would lead them on a path of profound discovery.

While residing within the seminary's walls, a remarkable opportunity presented itself to the brothers. They managed to acquire a precious treasure—a Bible written in the sacred language of Latin. This was a rare find, considering the limited access they had to such texts. Fortunately, Victorino, the eldest of the three, possessed the knowledge and ability to read and understand Latin.

As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, Victorino eagerly delved into the pages of the Latin Bible. It was within these sacred words that he encountered a passage contradicting the teachings they had received from the friars. This revelation shook the foundation of their beliefs, causing a deep introspection and a yearning for truth.

Driven by their newfound understanding and an unwavering conviction, the brothers made a life-altering decision. Secretly, Victorino, Restituto, and Enrique decided to leave the confines of the seminary, taking the Latin Bible with them as a symbol of their newfound spiritual journey.

Today, that very Bible, a testament to their courageous pursuit of truth, finds its place of honor in the library of Judge Jose Malahay Estacion, Jr., who is the grandson of Victorino. It stands as a tangible reminder of the veracity of Papa Waltz's cherished account. Although I was filled with curiosity and a desire to touch the Bible, which is carefully wrapped in cellophane, Manong Toto (Judge Jose Malahay Estacion, Jr.) kindly advised against it, emphasizing the delicate and fragile nature of this precious artifact.

In 1901, when the Hibbard Institute, which later became Silliman University, was established, Restituto and Enrique approached their father with an earnest plea. They longed for the opportunity to attend the school and dedicate themselves to the art of woodworking. Their passion for craftsmanship burned within them, and they saw the institute as a gateway to honing their skills.

Meanwhile, Victorino, their elder brother, found himself entrusted with the esteemed position of Juez de Paz, or Justice of the Peace, in Guihulngan. This appointment came as a result of his exceptional command over both Spanish and Latin. His linguistic prowess and understanding of these languages granted him a position of authority and responsibility within the community. Restituto and Enrique, too, were proficient in Spanish, allowing them to engage in meaningful conversations. However, their fluency in Latin was not as polished as Victorino's, though they still possessed a basic understanding.

Despite his initial concerns, Francisco ultimately gave in to the heartfelt request of his two sons, Restituto and Enrique. However, he did so with a stern warning that resonated deeply with them. Francisco, a devout Catholic, emphasized the importance of remaining steadfast in their faith and cautioned them against becoming “Erejes,” or heretics upon knowing that the school was run by Protestant missionaries. He made it clear that such a path would not be tolerated, going so far as to evoke the chilling imagery of slashing their throats should they become heretics.

With their father's words echoing in their minds, Restituto and Enrique embarked on their journey to Dumaguete, carrying a mix of determination and trepidation in their hearts. They understood the weight of their father's warning and the love that lay behind it. It was a delicate balance they sought—to pursue their passion for woodworking while staying true to their Catholic roots.

As they set foot in Dumaguete, the brothers were filled with a sense of both excitement and responsibility. They knew that their choices would not only shape their own lives but also impact their relationship with their family and their faith. The path ahead was filled with challenges, but Restituto and Enrique carried with them the lessons and values instilled by their father, determined to navigate their journey with integrity and devotion.

Soon enough, Enrique formed a strong bond with Dr. Hibbard, one of the esteemed professors at the institute. Dr. Hibbard's presence in Enrique's life extended beyond the classroom walls. After school, he would visit Enrique, offering guidance and tutoring him in various subjects, including English. However, Dr. Hibbard's influence didn't stop there. He also took the opportunity to share the Gospel with Enrique, imparting spiritual teachings and insights.

Despite Dr. Hibbard's sincere efforts, it seemed that Enrique's heart was not yet receptive to the Gospel message. As the words entered one ear, they seemed to pass through the other, leaving little impact on him. While appreciative of Dr. Hibbard's presence and guidance, Enrique's focus remained primarily on his academic pursuits, with the spiritual teachings taking a backseat.

Their interactions became a testament to the complexities of belief and the varying paths individuals take on their spiritual journeys. Dr. Hibbard's unwavering dedication to sharing the Gospel contrasted with Enrique's current state of receptivity. Nevertheless, their relationship continued to evolve, with Dr. Hibbard offering his wisdom and support, hoping that one day Enrique's heart would open to the spiritual teachings shared with him.

One fateful day, Restituto was struck down by the dreaded typhoid fever, an illness that was considered incurable during that time. As his health deteriorated, the weight of uncertainty and despair settled upon him and Enrique. However, in their darkest hour, a ray of hope emerged in the form of Mrs. Laura Hibbard, a compassionate soul who extended her care and support to Restituto.

With unwavering dedication, Mrs. Hibbard tended to Restituto, providing him with gentle care and nurturing. Day after day, she remained by his side, offering comfort and assistance, even as the disease persisted for a grueling six months. Her selfless acts of love and kindness left an indelible mark on Restituto's heart.

Moved by Mrs. Hibbard's tender and unwavering devotion, Restituto's heart softened. In this vulnerable state, he found solace and a newfound understanding of the Gospel message that had been shared with him by Dr. Hibbard. Embracing the depth of Mrs. Hibbard's care, Restituto made a profound decision—he accepted the Gospel and willingly entered the waters of baptism.

Enrique, Restituto's younger brother, witnessed the incredible transformation that took place before his eyes. He observed the genuine love and compassion displayed by Mrs. Hibbard, witnessing how her caring touch had brought about a miraculous recovery for his elder brother. This powerful display of love and the undeniable impact of the Gospel message on Restituto's life ignited a fire within Enrique's own heart.

Inspired and convinced of the truthfulness of the message, Enrique too made the life-altering decision to embrace the Gospel and step into the waters of baptism. The combined experiences of witnessing his brother's recovery and the profound love demonstrated by Mrs. Hibbard became catalysts for his own spiritual transformation.

This remarkable chain of events, fueled by the healing power of love and the unwavering faith of the Hibbard family, forever changed the lives of Restituto and Enrique. Their acceptance of the Gospel and their baptism marked the beginning of a new chapter—a shared journey of faith and devotion that would shape their lives and guide them on a path of spiritual enlightenment.

First Ministers of the Gospel of Negros and Siquijor Islands

To put it simply, Restituto and Enrique embarked on an incredible journey that led them to become ordained ministers, carrying the Gospel to the people of Negros Island and Siquijor. Restituto took on the important task of spreading the message of Christianity to the various villages in Guihulngan, while Enrique began his ministry in Siquijor. However, as time went on, Enrique's role expanded to include planting churches in different towns across Negros Oriental and Occidental, with a special focus on San Carlos and Escalante in the northern part of Negros Island.

With unwavering passion and devotion, Restituto and Enrique embraced their calling as ministers, tirelessly sharing the teachings of the Gospel and inspiring others to embrace their faith. Restituto's work in Guihulngan allowed him to reach people from all walks of life, bringing the light of Christianity to each village he visited. Witnessing his dedication and the positive impact he had on the lives of others, it became clear that Restituto's mission was making a difference.

Meanwhile, Enrique's ministry expanded beyond the shores of Siquijor, as he took on the responsibility of establishing churches in various towns throughout Negros Oriental and Occidental. His efforts were focused on San Carlos and Escalante, where he played a crucial role in laying the foundation for communities of believers to flourish.

Together, Restituto and Enrique worked tirelessly, sharing the love and teachings of the Gospel, bringing hope and unity to the communities they served. Their commitment to their calling and the genuine care they showed for others left a lasting impact on the region.

Today, their legacy continues to shine brightly, as the churches they planted thrive and serve as beacons of faith in Negros Island and Siquijor. The lives they touched and the communities they helped establish stand as a testament to the transformative power of their ministry. Restituto and Enrique's story serves as an inspiration to all who seek to follow their passion and make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Sidenote

When the school year finally came to an end, Restituto and Enrique faced a difficult decision. They knew that returning home to Guihulngan would likely result in their father's anger and disappointment. So, instead of going straight home, they decided to head to San Carlos and stayed for some time with their cousins, hoping to evade their father's ire for a little while.

However, as time passed, they realized that they couldn't stay away from their family forever. The moment of reckoning was approaching, and they had to find a way to face their father's wrath. It was then that Victorino, a person highly respected by their father for his intelligence, stepped in to help. Through his intervention, Victorino managed to soften their father's heart and spare them from his anger.

Grateful for Victorino's intervention, Restituto and Enrique saw an opportunity to share with him the incredible teachings of the Gospel that had transformed their own lives. With open hearts, Victorino listened to their words and soon found himself captivated by the message they shared. His own conversion became a testament to the profound impact Restituto and Enrique's faith had on those around them.

As Victorino embraced his newfound faith, the ripple effect of their journey continued to spread within their family. The transformative power of the Gospel reached their father, Francisco, and touched his heart as well. The Malahay family, once divided in their beliefs, now found unity and strength in their shared commitment to Christianity.

The ancestral home of the Malahays became a gathering place for fellow believers, a sanctuary where they could come together to worship, learn, and support one another. The bonds of their newfound faith deepened, strengthening their resolve and inspiring them to live out their beliefs.

Following their graduation in 1905, Restituto took on the role of resident pastor in Guihulngan, serving as a shepherd to his community. His dedication and love for his congregation shone through in every sermon, visit, and act of kindness. Meanwhile, Enrique pursued further studies at Ellinwood Bible School in Manila, eager to broaden his understanding and prepare himself for an even greater service to God and others. It was there that he met his future wife, Maria Lubguban Yabo from Siquijor, who was then the principal and music director of Manila Normal school.

During one summer vacation, Restituto and Enrique extended a warm invitation to Dr. Hibbard, the influential figure who had played a significant role in their spiritual journey. Excited to meet the person who had shaped their lives so profoundly, Francisco, their father, approached Dr. Hibbard with a mischievous smile. Lightly tapping Dr. Hibbard's stomach, Francisco jokingly exclaimed in Spanish, “So, you are the chief heretic!”

This playful interaction between Francisco and Dr. Hibbard spoke volumes about the transformation that had taken place within the Malahay family. What had once been apprehension and skepticism had given way to a deep understanding and acceptance of the Gospel message. Their exchange illustrated a newfound sense of camaraderie and lightheartedness, a reflection of the bond that had formed between Francisco and Dr. Hibbard.

The journey of the Malahay family continued to unfold, shaped by conversions, devotion, and the power of love. Their story serves as a reminder that faith has the remarkable ability to bridge divides, heal wounds, and bring families together in ways they never thought possible.

To God be the glory!