About

 A Dream Realized: The Founding of Escudo Masonic Lodge No. 371

The story of Escudo Masonic Lodge No. 371 begins not with a gavel, but with a dream. For years, the idea of a dedicated lodge for members of the Escudo DeMolay Alumni Chapter #4 was a recurring topic of discussion. It was a vision championed by MW Rosendo C. Herrera, PGM, the Grandmaster of the Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay of the Republic of the Philippines, who first planted the seed in the early 1990s.

Nearly two decades later, in 2006, the dream rekindled. Chapter Advisor VW Felix "Boy" D. Ramos (High 12 Lodge #82) and Chapter President Bro. Tito G. Cruz (Wadih C. Saab Chapter, 1975 Pioneer) reignited the call for a full-fledged Escudo Lodge.  With renewed enthusiasm, the Chapter launched a membership drive under the theme "SPREADING THE WINGS OF ESCUDO," expanding its reach and attracting a new wave of Senior DeMolays.

By 2007, the time was ripe. With the Chapter's support, Bro. Rudolph C. Cocjin (1979, Feliciano I. Iñigo Chapter) seconded the motion to establish a lodge during a February meeting. The theme for that year, "STEADFAST AGAINST ALL ODDS," reflected the determination of the Escudo members to see their vision through.

 On May 30, 2007, Escudo DAC#4 made a pivotal move. A courtesy call to the newly installed Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines, MW Jaime Y. Gonzales, formally conveyed their intent to form a lodge and invited him to be a Charter Member. This move echoed the Grand Master's call for more DeMolay involvement in Freemasonry.

 The culmination of their efforts arrived on August 10, 2007. The Escudo Lodge U.D. was instituted at the Jose Abad Santos Hall, Grand Lodge of F & A M of the Philippines, with Grand Master MW Jaime Y. Gonzales himself presiding over the ceremony. A distinguished roster of Masons, including past Grand Masters and DeMolay leaders, were inducted as Charter Officers and Members.

 Escudo Lodge's journey didn't end there. On May 6, 2008, they were officially constituted as a regular lodge, receiving the designation Escudo Masonic Lodge No. 371.  MW Grand Master Pacifico B. Aniag, a Senior DeMolay himself, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.  In his speech, he lauded Escudo's pioneering achievement and expressed hope that it would inspire other alumni chapters.

 Escudo's Legacy: A First Among Many

Escudo Masonic Lodge No. 371 holds a unique place in Masonic history. They are not only the first DeMolay alumni chapter to establish a lodge, but also the first Senior DeMolay Chapter to achieve this feat. While the debate for "first in the country" remains good-natured banter, their accomplishment is undeniable. Escudo's story is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of brotherhood.

"The Escudo Masonic Lodge No. 371 emblem is a carefully crafted representation of the Lodge's values, heritage, and aspirations. Each element was chosen through extensive deliberation by the nine original petitioners, all Senior DeMolays, ensuring a meaningful and symbolic representation of their shared journey.

HELMET:

• The helmet is not a symbol of warfare, but rather a representation of humility and fineness of character. It reminds us that true strength lies not in aggression, but in self-control and moral fortitude.

• It also serves as a reminder of our noble heritage, both as Freemasons and as Senior DeMolays, emphasizing the importance of upholding the traditions and values passed down through generations.

• It also symbolizes the protection of our thoughts.

SHIELD:

• The shield symbolizes the strength and resolve required to uphold our Masonic obligations, tenets, and cardinal virtues.

• It represents our commitment to defending the principles of Freemasonry and protecting the integrity of the Craft.

• It represents protection of our brothers.

5-ARMED CROSS:

• This distinctive cross symbolizes the roots and beginnings of the Lodge, acknowledging its deep connection to the DeMolay Order.

• The five arms represent the five points of fellowship.

• The white pearls at the tips of the cross are a tribute to the Charter Master and the nine original petitioners, honoring their dedication and vision in establishing the Lodge.

• The substitution of a white pearl with a black pearl where one drops his working tools, signifies the highest honor. The black pearl, often considered the most precious of all pearls, symbolizes the profound respect and recognition given to those who have completed their earthly labors.

SQUARE:

• The square is a fundamental Masonic symbol, representing morality, virtue, and integrity.

• It serves as a constant reminder to square our actions by the principles of honesty, fairness, and justice in all our dealings with others.

• It represents morality.

COMPASSES:

• The compasses are another vital Masonic symbol, representing the ability to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions within due bounds towards all mankind.

• They remind us to exercise self-control, moderation, and restraint in our thoughts, words, and actions.

• They also symbolize the ability to draw a moral circle around our actions, and to keep our actions within that circle.

ALL-SEEING EYE:

• The All-Seeing Eye is a powerful symbol of the Supreme Being's omnipresence and omniscience.

• It reminds us that our actions are always observed, and that we are accountable for our choices.

• It symbolizes the sacredness of our obligations and the importance of living a life of integrity and purpose.

• It represents the constant presence of the grand architect of the universe.

The Plaridel Masonic Temple: A Beacon of Philippine Freemasonry

"Escudo Masonic Lodge No. 371 proudly holds its stated meetings within the hallowed halls of the Plaridel Masonic Temple, located at 1440 San Marcelino Street, Ermita, Manila. This iconic structure serves as the headquarters of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, and stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Freemasonry in our nation.  

A Storied Past:

• Originally constructed in 1914 as a German clubhouse, the building's history is rich and varied.  

• It transitioned through periods of use by the YMCA before being acquired by the Plaridel Temple Association in 1919.  

• In 1937, the property was entrusted to the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands, with significant improvements made under Grand Master Jose Abad Santos.  

• During World War II, the temple suffered damage during Japanese occupation and the Battle of Manila.  

• It was rebuilt in 1948, symbolizing the resilience of Freemasonry.  

• Tragically, in 2000, a fire destroyed the temple and its invaluable Masonic relics.  

• Through unwavering dedication, the temple was reconstructed and solemnly re-inaugurated in 2006.  

• In 1987 the National Historical Commission of the Philippines declared the Plaridel Masonic Temple a Historical Landmark.  

Today, the Plaridel Masonic Temple stands as a symbol of strength, perseverance, and the enduring principles of Freemasonry. It is a place of gathering, reflection, and the pursuit of Masonic light, where Escudo Lodge No. 371 and other Lodges continue to uphold the traditions of our Craft."