FOREWORD
As I start this memoir on the Feast of the Assumption of Our Blessed Mother Mary, August 15, 2004, I am about to reach the 76th Anniversary of my Birthday – Sept. 29, 2004. I do not know how many more years God, Our Father, will let me live on this earth but as I reach the age of 76 I wish to bequeath a kind of memoir as an ACT OF THANKSGIVING TO GOD.
I hope that those who will read this memoir, especially those whose names shall be mentioned, if they are still alive, will praise God for having been used by Him as channels of His bountiful blessings on me.
May this memoir, therefore, serve as my personal testimony to the loving presence of God in my life which I believe He extends to every human being in this world, regardless of race, religion or nationality, for His love is universal, unconditional and has no favorites. (Deut. 10:17; Gal. 2:6)
In mentioning these manifold blessings, I would like to simply acknowledge a series of blessings as they flowed into my life starting from my birth, though not rigidly in a chronological order.
I hope that those who will read this memoir, especially those whose names shall be mentioned, if they are still alive, will praise God for having been used by Him as channels of His bountiful blessings on me.
May this memoir, therefore, serve as my personal testimony to the loving presence of God in my life which I believe He extends to every human being in this world, regardless of race, religion or nationality, for His love is universal, unconditional and has no favorites. (Deut. 10:17; Gal. 2:6)
In mentioning these manifold blessings, I would like to simply acknowledge a series of blessings as they flowed into my life starting from my birth, though not rigidly in a chronological order.
BLESSINGS IN MY CHILDHOOD
Through my parents, Tomas Mora Cagurangan and Toribia Cammayo Birung,
God has deigned to bring me into existence and see the light of day in this world on September 29, 1928, at Cataggaman Viejo, Tuguegarao, Cagayan. Being born on the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel, my parents first thought of naming me Miguel. However, because of my ceaseless crying, they decided to rename me Salvador, having been born on a Saturday. This, I was told, stopped my crying. Later on, they got word from old folks in the community that my great-great-grandfather was called Salvador.
Both my parents were very religious. They never missed going to Mass on Sundays and Holidays of Obligation, except when they got sick. Blessed with a big family of eight children but with scarce economic resources, they managed to live a simple life, maintain a modest homestead and labored to send all of us their children to school up to the tertiary level. Through their loving care my brothers, sisters and I grew as healthy children with the necessary educational training. Through their word and example, they succeeded to instill in my heart, the virtues of honesty and courage to stand for what is right.
My father was a soldier, an enlisted man who reached the rank of Master Sgt., and later promoted to the honor of a 2nd Lieutenant upon his retirement. He was a daily Mass participant, oftentimes serving as a sacristan. People in our barangay at Cataggaman Viejo looked up to Papa for leadership. Hence, for three consecutive terms, he was elected Barangay Captain even if he did not do any campaigning for himself. He gained the love and confidence of the people through his sincere unselfish service to their needs. He especially cared for the sick and aged, applying his know-how and skill having been a “practicante” or nurse at the Philippine Constabulary. He died on Sept. 13, 1995, only 15 days short before reaching his 92nd birthday. God gave me the privilege to assist Rev. Fr. Ricardo Baccay, the parish priest of Cataggaman then, in administering to him the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick and the Viaticum. Fifteen minutes after receiving Jesus in Holy Communion, when he still managed to answer with a loud “Amen”, he expired.
All my uncles and auntie on my father’s side have already gone to the next life.
My mother was a simple housewife who labored as a market vendor in order to augment the meager earnings of my father. She was very frugal with the household expenses but when it came to the education of us her children, she sacrificed whatever treasures she had to meet the necessary expenses. I can never forget her sacrifice in June 1941 when I needed money for enrollment as a First Year High School student at the Cagayan National High School. In order to provide for my school fees, she pawned her sewing machine to a relative by affinity for twenty-five pesos. Sad to recall, when she wanted to redeem the machine, that relative simply refused to give it up at any cost. My mother could not help but just cry and pray. Her consolation came when I was given a full scholarship to study at the seminary by our then Bishop, Most Rev. Constancio Jurgens. Mama was operated on for breast cancer and was supposed to undergo “chemotherapy”. At the advise of my sister, Luz, who have had the experience to nurse cancer patients in Canada, the prescribed therapy on her was not pushed through. Instead, Ofel & I soaked her with constant prayers and gave her the greatest of all medicines regularly – Jesus in Holy Communion. She lived for several years more after her operation and outlived Papa for six years. Due to general physical weakness she succumbed on April 3, 2001 at the age of almost 92 with all of us, her children present at her bedside. God has blessed me with a mother, so loving, caring and sacrificing and whose memory will ever remain in my heart and mind until we meet again in the next life.
On my mother’s side, there is still one remaining auntie whom we usually address as “Ina Ines” (Mrs. Ines Birung Lappay). She is now about 88 years old and is experiencing the vicissitudes of old age. Due to some circumstances, my family (that is, I, my late wife, Pilar, and our children) lived with her for about six months in 1975 at her residence in Cataggaman Viejo. I am, indeed, very grateful for her hospitality in accommodating us in her home.
God has deigned to bring me into existence and see the light of day in this world on September 29, 1928, at Cataggaman Viejo, Tuguegarao, Cagayan. Being born on the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel, my parents first thought of naming me Miguel. However, because of my ceaseless crying, they decided to rename me Salvador, having been born on a Saturday. This, I was told, stopped my crying. Later on, they got word from old folks in the community that my great-great-grandfather was called Salvador.
Both my parents were very religious. They never missed going to Mass on Sundays and Holidays of Obligation, except when they got sick. Blessed with a big family of eight children but with scarce economic resources, they managed to live a simple life, maintain a modest homestead and labored to send all of us their children to school up to the tertiary level. Through their loving care my brothers, sisters and I grew as healthy children with the necessary educational training. Through their word and example, they succeeded to instill in my heart, the virtues of honesty and courage to stand for what is right.
My father was a soldier, an enlisted man who reached the rank of Master Sgt., and later promoted to the honor of a 2nd Lieutenant upon his retirement. He was a daily Mass participant, oftentimes serving as a sacristan. People in our barangay at Cataggaman Viejo looked up to Papa for leadership. Hence, for three consecutive terms, he was elected Barangay Captain even if he did not do any campaigning for himself. He gained the love and confidence of the people through his sincere unselfish service to their needs. He especially cared for the sick and aged, applying his know-how and skill having been a “practicante” or nurse at the Philippine Constabulary. He died on Sept. 13, 1995, only 15 days short before reaching his 92nd birthday. God gave me the privilege to assist Rev. Fr. Ricardo Baccay, the parish priest of Cataggaman then, in administering to him the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick and the Viaticum. Fifteen minutes after receiving Jesus in Holy Communion, when he still managed to answer with a loud “Amen”, he expired.
All my uncles and auntie on my father’s side have already gone to the next life.
My mother was a simple housewife who labored as a market vendor in order to augment the meager earnings of my father. She was very frugal with the household expenses but when it came to the education of us her children, she sacrificed whatever treasures she had to meet the necessary expenses. I can never forget her sacrifice in June 1941 when I needed money for enrollment as a First Year High School student at the Cagayan National High School. In order to provide for my school fees, she pawned her sewing machine to a relative by affinity for twenty-five pesos. Sad to recall, when she wanted to redeem the machine, that relative simply refused to give it up at any cost. My mother could not help but just cry and pray. Her consolation came when I was given a full scholarship to study at the seminary by our then Bishop, Most Rev. Constancio Jurgens. Mama was operated on for breast cancer and was supposed to undergo “chemotherapy”. At the advise of my sister, Luz, who have had the experience to nurse cancer patients in Canada, the prescribed therapy on her was not pushed through. Instead, Ofel & I soaked her with constant prayers and gave her the greatest of all medicines regularly – Jesus in Holy Communion. She lived for several years more after her operation and outlived Papa for six years. Due to general physical weakness she succumbed on April 3, 2001 at the age of almost 92 with all of us, her children present at her bedside. God has blessed me with a mother, so loving, caring and sacrificing and whose memory will ever remain in my heart and mind until we meet again in the next life.
On my mother’s side, there is still one remaining auntie whom we usually address as “Ina Ines” (Mrs. Ines Birung Lappay). She is now about 88 years old and is experiencing the vicissitudes of old age. Due to some circumstances, my family (that is, I, my late wife, Pilar, and our children) lived with her for about six months in 1975 at her residence in Cataggaman Viejo. I am, indeed, very grateful for her hospitality in accommodating us in her home.
BLESSINGS IN MY FAMILY
My parents were blessed with ten children, namely:
1. Anita – born on December 3, 1926 and died on Aug. 31, 1932
2. Salvador – born on September 29, 1928
3. Gavino – born on September 3, 1930 and died on Sept. 9, 1932
4. Luisa ( aka. Marissa Mora) – born on January 31, 1934
5. Florencio – born on October 27, 1936
6. Lourdes – born on February 20, 1938
7. Cornelio – born on December 16, 1941
8. Miguel – born on May 8, 1945 and died on Dec. 7, 2004
9. Gregorio Luis – born on August 25, 1948
10. Tito – born on January 4, 1950
In 1933 an epidemic of measles and whooping cough broke out in the town of Tuguegarao and all three of us (Anita, Salvador and Gavino) fell victims to the disease. Within a period of nine days, Anita and Gavino succumbed to this dreadful virus. God, however, enabled me to overcome the sickness and so, I was the lone survivor. Anita was barely six years old then and Gavino was about two years old. My memory tells me that Anita was a very loving sister to me and Gavino was a very handsome baby.
As of today (Aug. 15, 2004), all my other sisters and brothers are still alive. They have their respective families, except Luisa who is fondly called “Luz” or “Marissa”, who, while enjoying the state of single blessedness, has the mission to give support and assistance to anyone in the family who needs help.
Luz graduated as a nurse from the Chinese General Hospital Nursing School, She had the honor of garnering the fourth place when she took the National board exams. After some years of serving here in the Philippines, she offered her services in different hospitals in the United States and Canada where she finally ended her career. She practiced her profession until her retirement when she reached her 60th birthday. All of us in the family owe Luz a very big debt of gratitude for she constantly is present to lighten our loads with her unbounded generosity and her very happy disposition. Personally, I owe her a lot for the countless financial assistance she gave me, especially in the great responsibility of ensuring that my children finish their education at the tertiary level. I would like to give a special mention to the unlimited support she gave to my youngest son, Thomas. Practically, she treated Tom like her own son and when she succeeded in taking him to Canada, she sacrificed a lot in supporting him to finish a course in Computer Programming. Through Luz, God has shown in many ways that He is always there providing financial assistance as well as moral, emotional and psychological support.
Florencio (Enciong) finished a course in Education. After some years of teaching, he opted to serve the public at the Department of Interior & Local Government where he finally retired. He married Milagros Mabbagu and they have five children. To him the family owes the maintenance of our real estate property at Cataggaman Viejo. He has a soft heart for the poor and oftentimes would share generously whatever he has to help them. Being a person with radical views, we sometimes have conflicting viewpoints and so through Enciong, God has given me the opportunity to practice the virtue of tolerance and respect for others despite differences in opinions, views and beliefs.
Lourdes enrolled at University of Santo Tomas and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce. During her studies in Manila she stayed with me and my family at our residence in Cubao, Quezon City. She gave a helping hand in taking care of my children. After graduation, she came home to Tuguegarao, found employment at the Philippine National Bank and got married to Mr. Jose Lappay, with whom she bore four children. After her retirement at PNB, she joined her children abroad and is now gainfully employed in the government service in California, USA.
Cornelio got his training as an accountant from the Ateneo de Tuguegarao, and passed the CPA board exams. As I was then connected with the Knights of Columbus, I introduced him to Rev. Fr. George Willmann who immediately employed him as a casual worker. Recognizing his diligence and efficiency in the performance of his work, he soon became a permanent employee in the Administrative Staff of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines. As the physical health of Father Willmann was deteriorating, Cornelio readily served him, staying with him even after office hours, ever ready to respond to his call. With his first wife, Honorata Bassig, he had three children and with his second wife, Teresita Punay, he got five children. Through Cornelio God gave me an example of how one can really extend his selfless loving services even beyond the call of duty.
Miguel (Mike) obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the Cagayan Teachers College. Later on he pursued a course in Law and passed the Bar. For several years he served as a Fiscal or Prosecutor. Recently he got an appointment as Judge in the municipality of Peñablanca. Mike begot five children with his wife, Nora Limon. Now and then, he runs into some financial difficulties due to various problems, the latest of which is the delayed release of his salaries. In these instances, he humbly seeks help from the family. Often, it is my brother Gregorio (Luging) who gives him the substantial financial support and in my own little way, I also share him whatever I can give. Through Mike, God gave me the chance to be compassionate and understanding.
Gregorio (Luging) graduated from the Philippine Military Academy, Class 1971. He served in the Philippine Army and reached the rank of a Full Fledged Colonel at the time when he opted to retire. Luging married Annabelle Liban with whom he begot three children. He is now gainfully employed in a Japanese firm as General Manager. Like Luz, Luging is endowed with a very big heart. Whenever there are appeals for financial assistance from anyone in the family, he would readily find ways and means to provide the amount that is needed, giving it “gratis et amore”. Because of his desire to help those in need, he has adopted a simple style of living minimizing even his personal expenses. Through Luging God gave me another example of a person who generously gives without expecting anything in return.
Tito likewise graduated from the Philippine Military Academy, Class 1974. He joined the PNP and is now a Full Fledged Colonel, stationed at Camp Alagar, Cagayan de Oro. Being the youngest in the family, he was barely six years old when I got married. Like anyone else, there was a time when he was rather despondent and I offered to take him to live with me at my residence in Urdaneta, Pangasinan. Residing with my family for about three months, I saw how hard working he was, voluntarily tilling our backyard and planting vegetables. He is blessed with five children with Mitzi Tomampos as his wife. A man of few words, Tito nonetheless exudes a personality that is humble and gentle, commanding respect. Through Tito, God gave me an example of a person who goes about his work with a low profile, never boasting of anything, but seeing to it that everything is done rightly and promptly.
1. Anita – born on December 3, 1926 and died on Aug. 31, 1932
2. Salvador – born on September 29, 1928
3. Gavino – born on September 3, 1930 and died on Sept. 9, 1932
4. Luisa ( aka. Marissa Mora) – born on January 31, 1934
5. Florencio – born on October 27, 1936
6. Lourdes – born on February 20, 1938
7. Cornelio – born on December 16, 1941
8. Miguel – born on May 8, 1945 and died on Dec. 7, 2004
9. Gregorio Luis – born on August 25, 1948
10. Tito – born on January 4, 1950
In 1933 an epidemic of measles and whooping cough broke out in the town of Tuguegarao and all three of us (Anita, Salvador and Gavino) fell victims to the disease. Within a period of nine days, Anita and Gavino succumbed to this dreadful virus. God, however, enabled me to overcome the sickness and so, I was the lone survivor. Anita was barely six years old then and Gavino was about two years old. My memory tells me that Anita was a very loving sister to me and Gavino was a very handsome baby.
As of today (Aug. 15, 2004), all my other sisters and brothers are still alive. They have their respective families, except Luisa who is fondly called “Luz” or “Marissa”, who, while enjoying the state of single blessedness, has the mission to give support and assistance to anyone in the family who needs help.
Luz graduated as a nurse from the Chinese General Hospital Nursing School, She had the honor of garnering the fourth place when she took the National board exams. After some years of serving here in the Philippines, she offered her services in different hospitals in the United States and Canada where she finally ended her career. She practiced her profession until her retirement when she reached her 60th birthday. All of us in the family owe Luz a very big debt of gratitude for she constantly is present to lighten our loads with her unbounded generosity and her very happy disposition. Personally, I owe her a lot for the countless financial assistance she gave me, especially in the great responsibility of ensuring that my children finish their education at the tertiary level. I would like to give a special mention to the unlimited support she gave to my youngest son, Thomas. Practically, she treated Tom like her own son and when she succeeded in taking him to Canada, she sacrificed a lot in supporting him to finish a course in Computer Programming. Through Luz, God has shown in many ways that He is always there providing financial assistance as well as moral, emotional and psychological support.
Florencio (Enciong) finished a course in Education. After some years of teaching, he opted to serve the public at the Department of Interior & Local Government where he finally retired. He married Milagros Mabbagu and they have five children. To him the family owes the maintenance of our real estate property at Cataggaman Viejo. He has a soft heart for the poor and oftentimes would share generously whatever he has to help them. Being a person with radical views, we sometimes have conflicting viewpoints and so through Enciong, God has given me the opportunity to practice the virtue of tolerance and respect for others despite differences in opinions, views and beliefs.
Lourdes enrolled at University of Santo Tomas and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce. During her studies in Manila she stayed with me and my family at our residence in Cubao, Quezon City. She gave a helping hand in taking care of my children. After graduation, she came home to Tuguegarao, found employment at the Philippine National Bank and got married to Mr. Jose Lappay, with whom she bore four children. After her retirement at PNB, she joined her children abroad and is now gainfully employed in the government service in California, USA.
Cornelio got his training as an accountant from the Ateneo de Tuguegarao, and passed the CPA board exams. As I was then connected with the Knights of Columbus, I introduced him to Rev. Fr. George Willmann who immediately employed him as a casual worker. Recognizing his diligence and efficiency in the performance of his work, he soon became a permanent employee in the Administrative Staff of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines. As the physical health of Father Willmann was deteriorating, Cornelio readily served him, staying with him even after office hours, ever ready to respond to his call. With his first wife, Honorata Bassig, he had three children and with his second wife, Teresita Punay, he got five children. Through Cornelio God gave me an example of how one can really extend his selfless loving services even beyond the call of duty.
Miguel (Mike) obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the Cagayan Teachers College. Later on he pursued a course in Law and passed the Bar. For several years he served as a Fiscal or Prosecutor. Recently he got an appointment as Judge in the municipality of Peñablanca. Mike begot five children with his wife, Nora Limon. Now and then, he runs into some financial difficulties due to various problems, the latest of which is the delayed release of his salaries. In these instances, he humbly seeks help from the family. Often, it is my brother Gregorio (Luging) who gives him the substantial financial support and in my own little way, I also share him whatever I can give. Through Mike, God gave me the chance to be compassionate and understanding.
Gregorio (Luging) graduated from the Philippine Military Academy, Class 1971. He served in the Philippine Army and reached the rank of a Full Fledged Colonel at the time when he opted to retire. Luging married Annabelle Liban with whom he begot three children. He is now gainfully employed in a Japanese firm as General Manager. Like Luz, Luging is endowed with a very big heart. Whenever there are appeals for financial assistance from anyone in the family, he would readily find ways and means to provide the amount that is needed, giving it “gratis et amore”. Because of his desire to help those in need, he has adopted a simple style of living minimizing even his personal expenses. Through Luging God gave me another example of a person who generously gives without expecting anything in return.
Tito likewise graduated from the Philippine Military Academy, Class 1974. He joined the PNP and is now a Full Fledged Colonel, stationed at Camp Alagar, Cagayan de Oro. Being the youngest in the family, he was barely six years old when I got married. Like anyone else, there was a time when he was rather despondent and I offered to take him to live with me at my residence in Urdaneta, Pangasinan. Residing with my family for about three months, I saw how hard working he was, voluntarily tilling our backyard and planting vegetables. He is blessed with five children with Mitzi Tomampos as his wife. A man of few words, Tito nonetheless exudes a personality that is humble and gentle, commanding respect. Through Tito, God gave me an example of a person who goes about his work with a low profile, never boasting of anything, but seeing to it that everything is done rightly and promptly.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS A FARMER
At the outbreak of World War II, December 8, 1941, my schooling at the Cagayan National High School as a First Year Student was abruptly ended. Being the eldest son in the family, although barely thirteen years old, I had to fend for a living because my father then was in the battlefields of Bataan. Hence, I sought the help of my uncle, Dominador M. Cagurangan, who readily took me to assist them in farming. My cousin, Dicong Cagurangan, taught me how to plow, sow seeds, pasture carabaos and all the other activities that a farmer should do. I truly enjoyed the life of a farmer so much so that I even wanted to remain a farmer throughout my whole life. But God had other plans for me. One day while I was in the field pasturing carabaos I got a call from my parents to go home for an important appointment. When I reached home I was told that our parish priest, Rev. Fr. Telesforo Cordova, wanted to see me.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS A SEMINARIAN
Rev. Fr. Cordova then extended to me the invitation of His Excellency, Most Rev. Constancio Jurgens, the Bishop of Tuguegarao Diocese, to be trained at the San Jacinto Seminary for the priesthood. This was a surprise for me because I never dreamed of becoming a priest. However, I welcomed the invitation and entered the seminary, which was then housed at the Bishop’s Palace in Tuguegarao, in the year 1943. I was one of those then called the “Palacio Boys”. The Father Rector was Rev. Fr. Oscar Deltour, CICM, and among my instructors were Mr. Diosdado Chan, and Rev. Fr. Remudaro, a diocesan priest. My co-palacio boys were: Vicente Manaligod, Elpidio Durian, Cesar Tagal (now Msgr. Cesar Tagal, H.P.), Francisco Jocson (now Fr. Jocson), Ceferino Cepeda, Jose Buñag, Nestor Romero, and Cresencio Pagaddu. I enjoyed their camaraderie and although at times we had misunderstandings, we felt a bond of love uniting us in our priestly vocation.
The greatest blessing that I received during this period of my life was the loving care of Rev. Fr. Oscar Deltour, our Rector (may He rest in peace). Having been afflicted with osteomyelitis, a bone disease, he brought me by plane to Manila to be operated on. After the operation, he simply nursed me for more than two months at the Convent of the Carmelite Nuns in Gilmore, Quezon City. Indeed, God’s love for me was visibly manifested by the patience and perseverance with which Father Oscar took care of me.
I continued my studies as a seminarian at the Immaculate Conception Seminary in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. There I finished the college course of Philosophy in 1950. In this seminary, I received so many blessings of friendship and loving care from priests and seminarians. Afflicted with “osteomyelitis” for a period of eight years, in spite of two major operations, I became the recipient of much concern and sympathy. Worth mentioning were those who served me unselfishly for my medical treatment and physical needs whenever I had to be confined in bed in order to recuperate. They were Rev. Fr. Holobrady, SVD, Victorino Ligot who became the First Bishop of the Diocese of San Fernando, La Union, and Marcelo Bassig who received the distinquished papal awards of Honorary Prelate and Protonotary Apostolic and is now the Parish Priest of Iguig. During this time, I also had the privilege of communing with some seminarians who later on became outstanding prelates of the Church, namely: the late Msgr. Narciso Allag H.P.,P.A., Msgr. Vicente Catral H.P.,P.A., Msgr. Juan S. Quinto H.P., Most Rev. Diosdado Talamayan, our present Archbishop in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, Most Rev. Ramon Villena, Most Rev. Miguel Purugganan, Most Rev. Edmundo Abaya, the late Most Rev. Emiliano Dumangeng and Most Rev. Sebastian Dalis. Through all of them, God bestowed on me the blessings of a true Christian love that is manifested in words and deeds.
In the Immaculate Conception Seminary, God blessed me with a very wonderful experience which now and then comes back to my memory. I was just standing in a corner of the building and was awed by the dripping of water when I sensed that there was a very Special Someone present. I recall that I just remained still – magnetized by the Sacred Presence and experiencing within me a wonderful feeling of peace and tranquility.
In 1951, wanting to be a Religious Priest like Father Oscar, who deeply impressed me as a model priest in holiness, I manifested my desire to join the CICM (Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary). Since there was no novitiate yet in the Philippines for the CICM, I was sent to St. Francis de Sales Seminary at Lipa City to study Theology. There I had as one of my classmates His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal Vidal whose simplicity and humility inspired me a lot. Although considered as among the most outstanding students in the seminary, he maintained a low profile in dealing with us – offering his services whenever needed, especially as our organist.
In 1953, the CICM opened its Novitiate at Baguio City. Six of us, namely: Fronton Buendia, Prudencio Costales, Teofilo Pagaduan, Jose Saplala, Carolino Villanueva, and myself, finished a one year novice training under the Rectorship of Rev. Fr. George Hantson, CICM. At the end of this training, we took the vows of a Religious for one year and thus, historically, we were the first Filipinos who became members of the CICM. I then continued my studies as a third year theologian at Mirador Hill in Baguio City with the Jesuit scholastics. Somehow I did not feel at ease in my relationship with my superiors and so I opted to leave the seminary. I was advised, however, to join the diocesan clergy in Tuguegarao. So, I presented myself to Most Rev. Juan Sison, the Diocesan Administrator at that time. Bishop Sison cordially welcomed me but had to write to Rome for their approval in accepting me. Meanwhile I made a novena asking God to enlighten me regarding my vocation. After the novena, I felt that the life of a priest which I observed when I visited several parishes was not meant for me. Hence, I sought an audience with His Excellency Bishop Sison and told him my decision of not pursuing anymore the priestly vocation. He immediately accepted my decision and added: “Don’t change your decision anymore, for the world also needs good laymen. But, I just want you to know that I received today the approval of Rome for your acceptance.” With these words of His Excellency, I felt that God wanted me to serve Him as a layman.
The greatest blessing that I received during this period of my life was the loving care of Rev. Fr. Oscar Deltour, our Rector (may He rest in peace). Having been afflicted with osteomyelitis, a bone disease, he brought me by plane to Manila to be operated on. After the operation, he simply nursed me for more than two months at the Convent of the Carmelite Nuns in Gilmore, Quezon City. Indeed, God’s love for me was visibly manifested by the patience and perseverance with which Father Oscar took care of me.
I continued my studies as a seminarian at the Immaculate Conception Seminary in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. There I finished the college course of Philosophy in 1950. In this seminary, I received so many blessings of friendship and loving care from priests and seminarians. Afflicted with “osteomyelitis” for a period of eight years, in spite of two major operations, I became the recipient of much concern and sympathy. Worth mentioning were those who served me unselfishly for my medical treatment and physical needs whenever I had to be confined in bed in order to recuperate. They were Rev. Fr. Holobrady, SVD, Victorino Ligot who became the First Bishop of the Diocese of San Fernando, La Union, and Marcelo Bassig who received the distinquished papal awards of Honorary Prelate and Protonotary Apostolic and is now the Parish Priest of Iguig. During this time, I also had the privilege of communing with some seminarians who later on became outstanding prelates of the Church, namely: the late Msgr. Narciso Allag H.P.,P.A., Msgr. Vicente Catral H.P.,P.A., Msgr. Juan S. Quinto H.P., Most Rev. Diosdado Talamayan, our present Archbishop in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, Most Rev. Ramon Villena, Most Rev. Miguel Purugganan, Most Rev. Edmundo Abaya, the late Most Rev. Emiliano Dumangeng and Most Rev. Sebastian Dalis. Through all of them, God bestowed on me the blessings of a true Christian love that is manifested in words and deeds.
In the Immaculate Conception Seminary, God blessed me with a very wonderful experience which now and then comes back to my memory. I was just standing in a corner of the building and was awed by the dripping of water when I sensed that there was a very Special Someone present. I recall that I just remained still – magnetized by the Sacred Presence and experiencing within me a wonderful feeling of peace and tranquility.
In 1951, wanting to be a Religious Priest like Father Oscar, who deeply impressed me as a model priest in holiness, I manifested my desire to join the CICM (Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary). Since there was no novitiate yet in the Philippines for the CICM, I was sent to St. Francis de Sales Seminary at Lipa City to study Theology. There I had as one of my classmates His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal Vidal whose simplicity and humility inspired me a lot. Although considered as among the most outstanding students in the seminary, he maintained a low profile in dealing with us – offering his services whenever needed, especially as our organist.
In 1953, the CICM opened its Novitiate at Baguio City. Six of us, namely: Fronton Buendia, Prudencio Costales, Teofilo Pagaduan, Jose Saplala, Carolino Villanueva, and myself, finished a one year novice training under the Rectorship of Rev. Fr. George Hantson, CICM. At the end of this training, we took the vows of a Religious for one year and thus, historically, we were the first Filipinos who became members of the CICM. I then continued my studies as a third year theologian at Mirador Hill in Baguio City with the Jesuit scholastics. Somehow I did not feel at ease in my relationship with my superiors and so I opted to leave the seminary. I was advised, however, to join the diocesan clergy in Tuguegarao. So, I presented myself to Most Rev. Juan Sison, the Diocesan Administrator at that time. Bishop Sison cordially welcomed me but had to write to Rome for their approval in accepting me. Meanwhile I made a novena asking God to enlighten me regarding my vocation. After the novena, I felt that the life of a priest which I observed when I visited several parishes was not meant for me. Hence, I sought an audience with His Excellency Bishop Sison and told him my decision of not pursuing anymore the priestly vocation. He immediately accepted my decision and added: “Don’t change your decision anymore, for the world also needs good laymen. But, I just want you to know that I received today the approval of Rome for your acceptance.” With these words of His Excellency, I felt that God wanted me to serve Him as a layman.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS AN EX-SEMINARIAN
I was feeling like a stranger when I first went out into the world without wearing a cassock, which I used to wear when I went out. Fortunately, I met some ex-seminarians at the University of Santo Tomas when I enrolled to finish my bachelor’s course in Philosophy. Among them were Mr. Romeo Gatan, Mr. Wilfredo Maguigad, and Mr. Elpidio Durian. These three contemporaries of mine in the seminary helped to make me feel at home in the world. They brought me to parties and introduced me to friends and acquaintances. Gradually I got adjusted to the outside world.
The first job that was offered to me was a teaching position at Letran College in ReligionIntramuros, Manila. Having gone as far as third year theology in the seminary, I was given a load in Religion at the High School Department and Apologetics at the College Department. The pay then was just enough to provide for my basic needs.
Later on, I ventured into insurance underwriting with the Insular Life of the Philippines and into sales promotion for a Catholic Book Division of an American Book Company. While the income in these companies was quite good, it was not, however, steady – being on a commission basis according to one’s productivity. Since I already had a family to sustain, I prayed for a steady job. God, in His infinite goodness, led me to the Knights of Columbus Headquarters in Intramuros, Manila, where a brother knight introduced me to the KC Territorial Deputy, Rev. Fr. George Willmann, SJ. For a few months Father Willmann enlisted my services as a member of the staff for the CROSS Magazine, a monthly publication of the Knights of Columbus. Then on September 9, 1958, the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Incorporated (KCFAPI) was organized and they offered me the position of Office Manager. As manager I served the Association for a period of six years (l958 – l964). Being quite bored with office work I finally decided to go back to the teaching profession. Having graduated with an MBA degree from the Ateneo de Manila University, I applied at the University of the East and was taken as a full-time Instructor of Finance subjects. It was at UE where I met Dean Santiago de la Cruz, Head of the School of Business Administration. Dean de la Cruz edified me with his wholehearted dedication to work and his very effective managerial skills.
The first job that was offered to me was a teaching position at Letran College in ReligionIntramuros, Manila. Having gone as far as third year theology in the seminary, I was given a load in Religion at the High School Department and Apologetics at the College Department. The pay then was just enough to provide for my basic needs.
Later on, I ventured into insurance underwriting with the Insular Life of the Philippines and into sales promotion for a Catholic Book Division of an American Book Company. While the income in these companies was quite good, it was not, however, steady – being on a commission basis according to one’s productivity. Since I already had a family to sustain, I prayed for a steady job. God, in His infinite goodness, led me to the Knights of Columbus Headquarters in Intramuros, Manila, where a brother knight introduced me to the KC Territorial Deputy, Rev. Fr. George Willmann, SJ. For a few months Father Willmann enlisted my services as a member of the staff for the CROSS Magazine, a monthly publication of the Knights of Columbus. Then on September 9, 1958, the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Incorporated (KCFAPI) was organized and they offered me the position of Office Manager. As manager I served the Association for a period of six years (l958 – l964). Being quite bored with office work I finally decided to go back to the teaching profession. Having graduated with an MBA degree from the Ateneo de Manila University, I applied at the University of the East and was taken as a full-time Instructor of Finance subjects. It was at UE where I met Dean Santiago de la Cruz, Head of the School of Business Administration. Dean de la Cruz edified me with his wholehearted dedication to work and his very effective managerial skills.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS A FAMILY MAN
In February of 1956 a friend, Mr. Vicente Manaligod, introduced me to a lady, Miss Pilar Catriz Eufemio, an ex-nun from the Franciscan Order. As our friendship developed we decided to get married in September 1, 1956. Our conjugal union was blessed with nine children, who were born as follows:
1. Mary Josephine - May 19, 1958
2. Mary Therese - April 17, 1959
3. Mary Rose - May 27, 1960
4. Mary Anne - August 9, 1961
5. William - June 25, 1962
6. Mary Margaret - February 25, 1964
7. Mary Gemma - May 7, 1965
8. Thomas - March 7, 1967
9. Teilhard - December 9, 1969 but died on May 18, 1971
With this big family, my main concern was how to provide for their sustenance and education. Hence, while I served in different capacities in different offices and schools to earn a living, my wife then, being a Home Economics graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, augmented my earnings through dressmaking and food preservation. Economically, emotionally and spiritually we had our ups and downs in our marital life but through the grace of God, we were able to overcome all kinds of difficulties and problems.
My mother-in-law, Mrs. Rosario Catriz Eufemio, graciously offered a space for us in their residence at Cubao, Quezon City. So, we lived with her until her death in the year 1962. She was a very religious woman and even when she was already weak because of old age, she still managed to help in the caring of the children and enjoyed playing with them. When she won a piano in a lottery conducted by the Red Cross, she graciously offered it to us. God has, indeed, blessed me with a very generous mother-in-law.
I did not have the privilege of meeting the father of my wife Pilar, Ret. Col. Adolfo Eufemio who, I was told, was the Provincial PC Commander in Cavite when Pilar was born at Imus, Cavite, on January 19, 1929; that he was one of the first graduates of the Philippine Military Academy and had earned medals as a sharp shooter; that he took up law and passed the bar exams; that in the practice of law, it was more for charity than for earning an additional income as many a time, he gave free housing accommodation and sustenance to his clients especially when they came from his hometown in San Jose, Abra. He, certainly, must have been a man with a big heart, and I am indirectly blessed by his example of an unselfish life.
I thank the Lord particularly for the grace of inviting me and my wife to a Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS) in January 1977 at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. Historically, that was the first LSS conducted in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao by a group of 24 Charismatics, headed by a priest, who came all the way from New York, U.S.A. That seminar was, indeed, a turning point in my life. I consider it a “kairos” – God’s special time of letting me feel His loving presence. From a life that was simply floating without any meaning or sense of direction, my faith in the reality of God and of Jesus Christ as my Savior became alive and enabled me to turn away from my sinful ways and surrender myself entirely to the Lord. From that moment on, my wife and I dedicated our time, talents and treasure in spreading the “Good News”, especially through the Charismatic Movement. A good number of people joined us in this movement as we went from house to house to conduct prayer meetings and from parish to parish to give a Life in the Spirit Seminar. Among those who joined us was John Iringan, a student at St. Paul College who after graduation entered the seminary and was later on ordained a priest. He admitted that his vocation to the priesthood was an offshoot of his involvement in the charismatic movement. Fr. John died a few years ago – but the memory of his kindness, humility and dedication to duty is still ringing in my heart and mind.
God’s ways are, indeed, inscrutable. While my wife and I were deeply involved in the charismatic movement, He suddenly took her away from me. Arriving at home at about ten o’clock at night, after conducting a prayer meeting where Rev. Fr. Ramon Villena (now a bishop) was present, she complained of a stomach ache. Since the ache was persistent, despite some palliatives, I brought her at mid-night to a nearby Provincial hospital. After some medications, she was advised to rest. At about 3:00 AM, she asked for a bible, opened it and requested me to read a passage which she pointed. The passage is from John 6:51 which reads: “ I am the Living Bread that has come down from heaven. If anyone eats this bread he shall live forever; the bread I will give is my flesh, for the life of the world.” Although she was told to rest, she preferred to stand and walk around in the room praying the rosary. All of a sudden, at about 6:00 AM, she shouted “PAPA”, became very stiff and I was just on time to catch her in my arms as she fell. A doctor and a priest came after a few minutes, but the electro-cardiogram showed a straight line. That was November 11, 1980. Nov. 11 was also the date when her father, Adolfo, died.
After her death, my children and I recalled some of her words just a few weeks before she died “I want to die standing”; “If I die do not wear black, wear white”. And so at her funeral we all wore white.
The death of my wife (Pilar) was another “kairos” in my life. I felt that God was telling me something. Somehow I thought God wanted me to become a priest. And so I presented myself to Most Rev. Teodulfo Domingo and Most Rev. Miguel Purugganan if they would accept me to finish my studies for the priesthood and thus be ordained. They both told me to wait. Later on, Most Rev. Pedro Magugat, then the Military Vicar General, offered to ordain me as a Military Chaplain. My application was then sent to Rome for approval. Rome, however, deferred my application on the ground that I still had some children of minor age to support.
1. Mary Josephine - May 19, 1958
2. Mary Therese - April 17, 1959
3. Mary Rose - May 27, 1960
4. Mary Anne - August 9, 1961
5. William - June 25, 1962
6. Mary Margaret - February 25, 1964
7. Mary Gemma - May 7, 1965
8. Thomas - March 7, 1967
9. Teilhard - December 9, 1969 but died on May 18, 1971
With this big family, my main concern was how to provide for their sustenance and education. Hence, while I served in different capacities in different offices and schools to earn a living, my wife then, being a Home Economics graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, augmented my earnings through dressmaking and food preservation. Economically, emotionally and spiritually we had our ups and downs in our marital life but through the grace of God, we were able to overcome all kinds of difficulties and problems.
My mother-in-law, Mrs. Rosario Catriz Eufemio, graciously offered a space for us in their residence at Cubao, Quezon City. So, we lived with her until her death in the year 1962. She was a very religious woman and even when she was already weak because of old age, she still managed to help in the caring of the children and enjoyed playing with them. When she won a piano in a lottery conducted by the Red Cross, she graciously offered it to us. God has, indeed, blessed me with a very generous mother-in-law.
I did not have the privilege of meeting the father of my wife Pilar, Ret. Col. Adolfo Eufemio who, I was told, was the Provincial PC Commander in Cavite when Pilar was born at Imus, Cavite, on January 19, 1929; that he was one of the first graduates of the Philippine Military Academy and had earned medals as a sharp shooter; that he took up law and passed the bar exams; that in the practice of law, it was more for charity than for earning an additional income as many a time, he gave free housing accommodation and sustenance to his clients especially when they came from his hometown in San Jose, Abra. He, certainly, must have been a man with a big heart, and I am indirectly blessed by his example of an unselfish life.
I thank the Lord particularly for the grace of inviting me and my wife to a Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS) in January 1977 at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. Historically, that was the first LSS conducted in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao by a group of 24 Charismatics, headed by a priest, who came all the way from New York, U.S.A. That seminar was, indeed, a turning point in my life. I consider it a “kairos” – God’s special time of letting me feel His loving presence. From a life that was simply floating without any meaning or sense of direction, my faith in the reality of God and of Jesus Christ as my Savior became alive and enabled me to turn away from my sinful ways and surrender myself entirely to the Lord. From that moment on, my wife and I dedicated our time, talents and treasure in spreading the “Good News”, especially through the Charismatic Movement. A good number of people joined us in this movement as we went from house to house to conduct prayer meetings and from parish to parish to give a Life in the Spirit Seminar. Among those who joined us was John Iringan, a student at St. Paul College who after graduation entered the seminary and was later on ordained a priest. He admitted that his vocation to the priesthood was an offshoot of his involvement in the charismatic movement. Fr. John died a few years ago – but the memory of his kindness, humility and dedication to duty is still ringing in my heart and mind.
God’s ways are, indeed, inscrutable. While my wife and I were deeply involved in the charismatic movement, He suddenly took her away from me. Arriving at home at about ten o’clock at night, after conducting a prayer meeting where Rev. Fr. Ramon Villena (now a bishop) was present, she complained of a stomach ache. Since the ache was persistent, despite some palliatives, I brought her at mid-night to a nearby Provincial hospital. After some medications, she was advised to rest. At about 3:00 AM, she asked for a bible, opened it and requested me to read a passage which she pointed. The passage is from John 6:51 which reads: “ I am the Living Bread that has come down from heaven. If anyone eats this bread he shall live forever; the bread I will give is my flesh, for the life of the world.” Although she was told to rest, she preferred to stand and walk around in the room praying the rosary. All of a sudden, at about 6:00 AM, she shouted “PAPA”, became very stiff and I was just on time to catch her in my arms as she fell. A doctor and a priest came after a few minutes, but the electro-cardiogram showed a straight line. That was November 11, 1980. Nov. 11 was also the date when her father, Adolfo, died.
After her death, my children and I recalled some of her words just a few weeks before she died “I want to die standing”; “If I die do not wear black, wear white”. And so at her funeral we all wore white.
The death of my wife (Pilar) was another “kairos” in my life. I felt that God was telling me something. Somehow I thought God wanted me to become a priest. And so I presented myself to Most Rev. Teodulfo Domingo and Most Rev. Miguel Purugganan if they would accept me to finish my studies for the priesthood and thus be ordained. They both told me to wait. Later on, Most Rev. Pedro Magugat, then the Military Vicar General, offered to ordain me as a Military Chaplain. My application was then sent to Rome for approval. Rome, however, deferred my application on the ground that I still had some children of minor age to support.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS A SINGLE PARENT
After the funeral rites at our parish church in Cataggaman, while I was following the casket carrying the remains of Pilar to the cemetery, I found myself walking arm to arm with my eight surviving children. It then dawned on me that now I was a Single Parent. How to continue sustaining the needs of my children, materially as well as spiritually, was now my sole responsibility. I thank God that my children, each of them, were blessings to me.
Mary Josephine (Jojo), the eldest of them, found support from my sister-in-law, Miss Natividad C. Eufemio, for her studies at the Araneta University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agri-Business. Driven by a desire to help people, especially the poor, she opted to engage in Sustainable Agriculture and thus goes now from farm to farm showing people how to use organic fertilizers in their fields. She has remained single up to now and is helping financially the family of Willy, her brother. She has a spirituality of her own, based on strong convictions which she manifests in her way of life.
Mary Therese (Tet), the second born, is a bright girl. She finished a Bachelor’s Course in Accounting at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao and passed the CPA exams. She got married to Engr. Bienvenido de la Cerna. They had six children: Calvin Kay, Caitlin Mae, Cardijn Jan, Charles Nico, Carl Bien Louie, and Charibet Tria, (4 boys and 2 girls). Lately she gave birth to a seventh child, Jesus Emmanuel. I see in her, through her letters, a strong desire to turn a new leaf. Right now she is employed on a probationary basis as an accountant in a company at Cabuyao, Laguna. Through Tet, God is giving me the opportunity to manifest His grace of understanding and forgiveness.
Mary Rose, the third born, is a diligent girl. She earned a degree of Bachelor in Business Administration, Major in Accounting from St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. After graduation she found employment at Miescor through the recommendation of her uncle, Mr. Napoleon C. Eufemio. Married to Mr. Rodel Arranz, a CPA, she is blessed with three children: Roselle Gale, John Voltaire and Michelle Angelica (2 girls and 1 boy). She is a dutiful housewife and a very caring mother. Now and then, she sends me love notes through cellphone. She never fails to greet me on my birthdays and during the Christmas season. She is, indeed, a loving daughter, and I thank God for blessing me with her.
Mary Anne (Annie), the fourth born, is a very intelligent girl. She received a Scholarship Award from the Knights of Columbus Foundation of the Philippines and enrolled at St. Louis University in Baguio City. There she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry. For quite a time she was connected with a semi-government firm engaged in producing fertilizers. Now she is a consultant of some Chemical companies. Married to Engr. Ramon de la Peña, she is blessed with three boys: Raemon Alvin, Ryan Arvin and Ron Aldin. She resides with her family at a subdivision in Imus, Cavite. She is a dutiful housewife. With loving care, she caters to the needs of her husband, who has been afflicted with a kidney trouble and is still undergoing some medication after his kidney transplant. To her children, she is a disciplinarian who tends with tender loving care. She consistently sends me love notes and greetings not only on my birthday. I see in Anne, a woman who is dedicated to her profession and with foresight for the welfare of her family. I thank God for blessing me with a very responsible daughter in the person of Anne.
William (Willy), the fifth child, but the first son, is endowed with a special talent for mechanics and electronics. He finished a two-year course in Electronics at a school in Cabanatuan City where he was offered a scholarship. However, upon graduation instead of engaging in the trade of electronics, he ventured into salesmanship as a medical representative. Later on he married Rica Arguelles and begot eight children: Filipinesca (Happi), Ansherina (Hanni), Iamca (Holli), Wrilchad (Hirro), Williard (Hobbi), Miracle (Hevven), Duncan (Hex), and Fairlyn (Hershey). Unfornately, due to some conjugal problems, he is now living separately from his wife. He has taken all his children with him to live at Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. To sustain his family, he is at present dependent on subsidies coming from his brother, Tom, his auntie, Marissa (Luz), his uncle Luging, from his sisters and also from us, his parents. Through Willy, God has also given me the opportunity to extend His grace of forgiveness and understanding.
Mary Margaret (Margie), the sixth child, is gifted with an independent mind and a strong will power. She also obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. With the recommendation of her uncle, Mr. Napoleon Eufemio, she landed on a job as secretary in a Japanese firm. She was given a one-year stint to serve at the mother company in Japan. Returning to the Philippines, she was employed as a private secretary to a Madonna. Through the help of Marissa, her auntie, she obtained an immigrant visa to Canada. There, she met Mr. Jessie Basilio who became her husband. She is blessed with three girls: Jissele, Jinnette, and Jilliene. She is now a Canadian citizen together with her husband. There was a time when due to a family feud she separated from her husband. After realizing, however, the need of her children for a father’s love, she decided to be reconciled with her husband. They are now enjoying a happy family life. Margie is also responsive to the needs of others, especially to Willy’s family. Now and then, I receive letters and greetings from her, especially through the internet. With Margie, God gave me an example of a forgiving person.
Mary Gemma (Gemma), the seventh child, is a very amiable daughter. She is soft spoken but very attentive to the needs of others. She finished a Bachelor’s course in Psychology at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. After some months of employment at the Cagayan Provincial Hospital as a secretary, she opted to go to Manila and find employment there. She landed on a job in the Personnel Department of a certain manufacturing company. There she met Mr. Reggie Layug who asked for her hand in marriage. They are blessed with two boys: John Kenneth, and John Kevin. Gemma is a very loving and responsible wife. To maintain the family unity, they decided to immigrate as a family to Dubai, where Reggie is gainfully employed. Now and then I also receive love notes and greetings from her. Athough not earning anything, being a plain housewife, she has managed to share some of her savings for the financial needs of Willy’s family. Through Gemma, God has given me an example of a person who shares not out of the abundance of what she has but out of a very limited treasure, no matter how small it may be.
Thomas (Tom), the eighth child, but the second son, was born a very healthy and handsome baby. In a baby contest at Urdaneta, Pangasinan, where we migrated after his birth, he won the second prize. Being the youngest when my wife (Pilar) died, he became the recipient of much care and concern from me and his elder sisters and brother. After finishing High School at St. Louis College of Tuguegarao, he opted to enter the seminary to become a priest. Life in the seminary, however, seemed not to be according to his expectations. And so, he left the seminary. Since at the time he left, enrollment in schools were already closed, my sister Marissa offered to take him to Canada and there enrolled him in Computer Programming. After finishing the course, he landed on a job in the Bank of Montreal. Here he developed his skills in the field of computerization and was thereby given technical positions. Recently he was offered the position of a Production Analyst, which means promotion and higher pay. Tom has a winning personality. He has developed friendships with a lot of people, especially among the Cagayanos in Canada. Time and again, he has extended his helping hand to people in need. In a very big way, he has shared much of his treasure to subsidize Willy’s family. Up to now, this subsidy is being sent to Willy every month without expecting anything in return. I cannot but praise him for his unselfish generosity.
Tom got married to Ellie Magnaye, a Filipina Canadian. They are blessed with three children, two girls and one boy: Elissa Marie, Elaine Marie, and Timothy. I together with Ofel, my wife, had the privilege of living with them for about three months, when through the generosity of Marissa, my sister, we were given a visa to be a tourist to Canada in 1999. The reason for the release of our visa was the wedding of Margie and Jessie. Being with them during that short period of time was, indeed, a joy and a learning experience for Ofel and me.
I am, indeed, proud to have a son like Tom, who is very conscientious in his duties as a husband and father, and who really goes out of his way to extend his helping hand to whoever is in need.
Teilhard, the ninth child, and third son, was barely one year and a half old when he succumbed to a heavy cold that prevented him from breathing. He was simply chocked to death. I gave the name “Teilhard” to him, because it was during his conception that a friend, Rev. Fr. Antonio Portabes, gave me a book “The Phenomenon of Man” written by a famous great thinker, a Jesuit priest and a paleontologist, Fr. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. This book, in a way, helped to enlighten me, as I was going through a “crisis of faith”. I thank God for giving me Teilhard, a very lovely baby, for through him, God providentially gave me the grace to look deeper into the mystery of man and creation as a whole. It was also during his lifetime that I wrote an article, entitled: “Is Christianity a Religion of Love or a Religion of Money?” This article gained publication in a national magazine, The Free Press, and in some local newspapers, like the Cagayan Star.
Mary Josephine (Jojo), the eldest of them, found support from my sister-in-law, Miss Natividad C. Eufemio, for her studies at the Araneta University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agri-Business. Driven by a desire to help people, especially the poor, she opted to engage in Sustainable Agriculture and thus goes now from farm to farm showing people how to use organic fertilizers in their fields. She has remained single up to now and is helping financially the family of Willy, her brother. She has a spirituality of her own, based on strong convictions which she manifests in her way of life.
Mary Therese (Tet), the second born, is a bright girl. She finished a Bachelor’s Course in Accounting at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao and passed the CPA exams. She got married to Engr. Bienvenido de la Cerna. They had six children: Calvin Kay, Caitlin Mae, Cardijn Jan, Charles Nico, Carl Bien Louie, and Charibet Tria, (4 boys and 2 girls). Lately she gave birth to a seventh child, Jesus Emmanuel. I see in her, through her letters, a strong desire to turn a new leaf. Right now she is employed on a probationary basis as an accountant in a company at Cabuyao, Laguna. Through Tet, God is giving me the opportunity to manifest His grace of understanding and forgiveness.
Mary Rose, the third born, is a diligent girl. She earned a degree of Bachelor in Business Administration, Major in Accounting from St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. After graduation she found employment at Miescor through the recommendation of her uncle, Mr. Napoleon C. Eufemio. Married to Mr. Rodel Arranz, a CPA, she is blessed with three children: Roselle Gale, John Voltaire and Michelle Angelica (2 girls and 1 boy). She is a dutiful housewife and a very caring mother. Now and then, she sends me love notes through cellphone. She never fails to greet me on my birthdays and during the Christmas season. She is, indeed, a loving daughter, and I thank God for blessing me with her.
Mary Anne (Annie), the fourth born, is a very intelligent girl. She received a Scholarship Award from the Knights of Columbus Foundation of the Philippines and enrolled at St. Louis University in Baguio City. There she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry. For quite a time she was connected with a semi-government firm engaged in producing fertilizers. Now she is a consultant of some Chemical companies. Married to Engr. Ramon de la Peña, she is blessed with three boys: Raemon Alvin, Ryan Arvin and Ron Aldin. She resides with her family at a subdivision in Imus, Cavite. She is a dutiful housewife. With loving care, she caters to the needs of her husband, who has been afflicted with a kidney trouble and is still undergoing some medication after his kidney transplant. To her children, she is a disciplinarian who tends with tender loving care. She consistently sends me love notes and greetings not only on my birthday. I see in Anne, a woman who is dedicated to her profession and with foresight for the welfare of her family. I thank God for blessing me with a very responsible daughter in the person of Anne.
William (Willy), the fifth child, but the first son, is endowed with a special talent for mechanics and electronics. He finished a two-year course in Electronics at a school in Cabanatuan City where he was offered a scholarship. However, upon graduation instead of engaging in the trade of electronics, he ventured into salesmanship as a medical representative. Later on he married Rica Arguelles and begot eight children: Filipinesca (Happi), Ansherina (Hanni), Iamca (Holli), Wrilchad (Hirro), Williard (Hobbi), Miracle (Hevven), Duncan (Hex), and Fairlyn (Hershey). Unfornately, due to some conjugal problems, he is now living separately from his wife. He has taken all his children with him to live at Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. To sustain his family, he is at present dependent on subsidies coming from his brother, Tom, his auntie, Marissa (Luz), his uncle Luging, from his sisters and also from us, his parents. Through Willy, God has also given me the opportunity to extend His grace of forgiveness and understanding.
Mary Margaret (Margie), the sixth child, is gifted with an independent mind and a strong will power. She also obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. With the recommendation of her uncle, Mr. Napoleon Eufemio, she landed on a job as secretary in a Japanese firm. She was given a one-year stint to serve at the mother company in Japan. Returning to the Philippines, she was employed as a private secretary to a Madonna. Through the help of Marissa, her auntie, she obtained an immigrant visa to Canada. There, she met Mr. Jessie Basilio who became her husband. She is blessed with three girls: Jissele, Jinnette, and Jilliene. She is now a Canadian citizen together with her husband. There was a time when due to a family feud she separated from her husband. After realizing, however, the need of her children for a father’s love, she decided to be reconciled with her husband. They are now enjoying a happy family life. Margie is also responsive to the needs of others, especially to Willy’s family. Now and then, I receive letters and greetings from her, especially through the internet. With Margie, God gave me an example of a forgiving person.
Mary Gemma (Gemma), the seventh child, is a very amiable daughter. She is soft spoken but very attentive to the needs of others. She finished a Bachelor’s course in Psychology at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. After some months of employment at the Cagayan Provincial Hospital as a secretary, she opted to go to Manila and find employment there. She landed on a job in the Personnel Department of a certain manufacturing company. There she met Mr. Reggie Layug who asked for her hand in marriage. They are blessed with two boys: John Kenneth, and John Kevin. Gemma is a very loving and responsible wife. To maintain the family unity, they decided to immigrate as a family to Dubai, where Reggie is gainfully employed. Now and then I also receive love notes and greetings from her. Athough not earning anything, being a plain housewife, she has managed to share some of her savings for the financial needs of Willy’s family. Through Gemma, God has given me an example of a person who shares not out of the abundance of what she has but out of a very limited treasure, no matter how small it may be.
Thomas (Tom), the eighth child, but the second son, was born a very healthy and handsome baby. In a baby contest at Urdaneta, Pangasinan, where we migrated after his birth, he won the second prize. Being the youngest when my wife (Pilar) died, he became the recipient of much care and concern from me and his elder sisters and brother. After finishing High School at St. Louis College of Tuguegarao, he opted to enter the seminary to become a priest. Life in the seminary, however, seemed not to be according to his expectations. And so, he left the seminary. Since at the time he left, enrollment in schools were already closed, my sister Marissa offered to take him to Canada and there enrolled him in Computer Programming. After finishing the course, he landed on a job in the Bank of Montreal. Here he developed his skills in the field of computerization and was thereby given technical positions. Recently he was offered the position of a Production Analyst, which means promotion and higher pay. Tom has a winning personality. He has developed friendships with a lot of people, especially among the Cagayanos in Canada. Time and again, he has extended his helping hand to people in need. In a very big way, he has shared much of his treasure to subsidize Willy’s family. Up to now, this subsidy is being sent to Willy every month without expecting anything in return. I cannot but praise him for his unselfish generosity.
Tom got married to Ellie Magnaye, a Filipina Canadian. They are blessed with three children, two girls and one boy: Elissa Marie, Elaine Marie, and Timothy. I together with Ofel, my wife, had the privilege of living with them for about three months, when through the generosity of Marissa, my sister, we were given a visa to be a tourist to Canada in 1999. The reason for the release of our visa was the wedding of Margie and Jessie. Being with them during that short period of time was, indeed, a joy and a learning experience for Ofel and me.
I am, indeed, proud to have a son like Tom, who is very conscientious in his duties as a husband and father, and who really goes out of his way to extend his helping hand to whoever is in need.
Teilhard, the ninth child, and third son, was barely one year and a half old when he succumbed to a heavy cold that prevented him from breathing. He was simply chocked to death. I gave the name “Teilhard” to him, because it was during his conception that a friend, Rev. Fr. Antonio Portabes, gave me a book “The Phenomenon of Man” written by a famous great thinker, a Jesuit priest and a paleontologist, Fr. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. This book, in a way, helped to enlighten me, as I was going through a “crisis of faith”. I thank God for giving me Teilhard, a very lovely baby, for through him, God providentially gave me the grace to look deeper into the mystery of man and creation as a whole. It was also during his lifetime that I wrote an article, entitled: “Is Christianity a Religion of Love or a Religion of Money?” This article gained publication in a national magazine, The Free Press, and in some local newspapers, like the Cagayan Star.
BLESSINGS IN MY SECOND MARITAL LIFE
For about two years I lived the life of a single parent. I sought the advise of priests on whether or not I should remain single, enter the priesthood, or be married again. All were unanimous in admonishing me that the married state of life seems to be my vocation. When Rome denied my application to be accepted for priestly ordination, I considered this as a sign that God wanted me to embrace the married state again. I prayed for guidance in choosing my would-be life partner.
Through the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement I had the chance to meet several potential brides. When I met Miss Ofelia de la Cruz Quimosing on Feb. 19, 1982 during a wake where we both led a Bible Service for the dead, I was, indeed, attracted by her beauty and modest behavior. I also had the strong feeling that she was the one whom God meant to be my wife. I then started courting her. Even with very strong opposition on the part of her parents and sisters, with the exception of Cherry, her youngest sister, I pursued my desire to win her. We stormed heaven with our prayers, so that all obstacles would give way to our union in marriage. God’s ways are simple and truly wonderful. It was a letter from Rev. Fr. Oscar Deltour from far away Belgium that finally made the parents of Ofel give their blessing to our special relationship. Why? Because the Fr. Oscar that was like a father to me at the seminary was the same Fr. Oscar who married the parents of Ofel and who remained their spiritual father through the years. Thus, finally on December 22, 1982, with Most Rev. Teodulfo Domingo as the presider and eight other priests as concelebrants in a Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, Ofel and I administered to each other the Sacrament of Matrimony.
In asking for the hand of Ofel, foremost in my mind was the need for someone on whom I could rely for moral support in my spiritual journey towards my eternal destiny. Aware of my weaknesses and of my sinful ways in the past, I longed for someone who could edify and strengthen me in my struggles for holiness. I saw in Ofel what I longed for. Her Godliness in behavior and the sincere manifestations of her Christian faith in word and deed impressed me. I, therefore, thank God for the great blessing He gave me in the person of my wife, Ofel.
Ofel first started teaching at the Public Elementary School of Tuguegarao, being a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education graduate of the Philippine Normal College in 1965. In 1969 she obtained a scholarship on Special Education (SPED) at the University of the Philippines and graduated with a Master’s Degree in SPED in 1971. After her scholarship, she handled classes in SPED for children with behavioral problems and later on served as Guidance Counselor of Tuguegarao Central School. In 1976, after ten years in the public schools, she accepted an offer to serve at the National Labor Relations Commission, Regional Arbitration Branch No. 2, where she served in different capacities until she got her present position as Labor Arbitration Associate. While serving in the government, she makes time after office hours to also serve the church. She is active in several religious organizations and movements, like the Legion of Mary, Catholic Women League, Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement, and the PREX Secretariat. Aside from these, she is also active in civic organizations being a Board Member of the Girl Scout Cagayan Council and an officer of the Premier Tuguegarao Woman’s Club. She even finds time to serve as a Marriage Counselor to couples about to get married. Even with all these involvements, Ofel remains to be a dutiful caring wife. She ensures provisions for our everyday needs at home and also does the household chores like laundering, ironing and cleaning activities. Without her, I would not know how I could cope with life here on earth. I pray therefore, that if this be in accordance with God’s will, He will take me ahead of her to “OUR FATHER’S HOUSE”.
After journeying together as husband and wife for a period of thirteen years, Ofel and I were blessed unexpectedly with an Award from His Holiness Pope John Paul II. On December 22, 1995, our 13th Wedding Anniversary, our Archbishop, Most Rev. Diosdado A. Talamayan, DD conferred on Ofel the Papal Award of Dame of St. Sylvester, and on me the Papal Award of Knight of St. Sylvester. It is very seldom, they say, that this Award is given simultaneously to both husband and wife.
God has also blessed me with God-fearing parents-in-law. My father-in-law, Conrado Quimosing, was a very humble and quiet person. For about nine years before his death on Feb. 25, 1991 that I had the chance to know him, I found myself respecting and loving him. He found joy in making himself available to extend a helping hand to anyone in the family who needs his help. When he got sick, I witnessed him endure his bodily pains without any murmur. God blessed me with his example of patience and fortitude in bearing the cross of his sickness. My mother-in-law, Roberta de la Cruz Quimosing, is also a very religious woman. She goes to Mass everyday, missing it only when she is sick. Gifted with a “green thumb” she enjoys gardening and with her eye for beauty, she arranges her garden beautifully making it refreshing. She finds recreation in playing mahjong with chosen friends but she always makes it a point to refrain from playing throughout the whole Lenten season as an act of sacrifice. She also never tires especially when she was stronger, to gather the whole family to a get-together at least once a week so as to partake of the delicious food that she herself prepares and also to pray the rosary together as one big family. I found in her a real mother who truly cares and anticipates the needs of her children.
With Ofel as my wife, I am blessed with three sisters-in-law.
1. Imelda Lourdes (Lou) – the eldest among them was an Elementary School Teacher, handling Home Economics subjects. She got married to Dr. Henry Ridad, a retired Army General and a dentist by profession. They are blessed with one child, Louhen. They are now living in San Diego, California, USA. Before migrating to America, they used to invite us at their residence in Caritan Norte on special occasions and even when there was no occasion at all, to partake of the delicious meals that she prepares. Lou is a very good cook. She is also a very practical manager with an abundance of resourcefulness and creativity. She is very generous and shares whatever she thinks would make one happy.
2. Estela Evelyn (Evie) – more than a year younger than Ofel is a brilliant writer. Through a scholarship program she also finished a Master’s degree in Reading at the University of the Philippines. She first served as a teacher in Public Elementary Schools for some years. Later on she opted to join Ofel at National Labor Relations Commission, Region 2. She is also occupying the position of a Labor Arbitration Associate. Although she has some health problems, she has managed to involve herself in several church activities. Right now she is the Secretary of the Tuguegarao Parish Pastoral Council. During PREX Seminars, she usually handles one of the ten talks. In spite of her charming beauty she had so far eluded several suitors as she is content in enjoying the state of single blessedness. In word and deed, Evie stands out as a model of good Christian behavior.
3. Paz Rosario (Cherry), the youngest among the sisters, exudes a pleasing personality, blessed with both beauty and brains. As a BSEE graduate of PNC she also first started to serve as a Public Elementary School Teacher. Spotted to be an asset, Dr. Pura T. Liban, then a Division Supervisor, pulled her out of the classroom to be detailed at the Division Office of Cagayan. Later on, she transferred to the Department of Health and then to the Government Service Insurance System, where she decided to take advantage of the early retirement scheme that was then offered. Married to Mr. Simplicio Erick Perez, they are blessed with four children (two girls and two boys): Richelyn Anne (Chi-Anne), Raymond Shaft (Toto), John Erickson (JE), and Maria Erika Rose (Zazza). Cherry and Eric are both very enterprising and they have ventured into the business of medical supplies and equipment as well as grocery and gift items. Although faced with stiff competition, they have managed to keep alive and strong their business endeavors. Busy as they are, now and then they manage to invite us to their residence at Alimanao or to a special eatery in the city to treat us with delicious food. Cherry is a very good story teller and thus, gives joy to those listening to her. She is surely a great blessing to the family and to all who have the privilege of being touched by her life.
Lately, Chi-Anne who got married to Mr. Joel Domingo, gave birth to a baby girl (Janelle Anne Charisse) on July 25, 2004. She is the first grandchild of Cherry and Erick and is, indeed, a “bundle of joy” to all of us.
I would like to mention also two aunties of my wife, who have showered on her and her sisters so much constant care and support.
1. Miss Ermelecinda (Auntie Iging) de la Cruz was an Elementary School Teacher. Ofel tells me that being single, much of her blessings in life were generously shared especially on her and her sisters and that she greatly supported them financially in obtaining their education. At the time I met her, she was already retired from the service. Knowing her personally for the remaining eight years of her life, I was so impressed with her humility and simple life style. While she suffered a lingering sickness, I never heard a complaint from her lips. She exuded the virtue of patience and a childlike submission to the will of God for before her illness she was also a daily Mass goer.
2. Mrs. Mercedes (Auntie Ceding) de la Cruz Manuela, who will be 92 years old on December 14, 2004, was also an Elementary School Teacher. In her early forties she got married to Mr. Vicente Manuela who I learned was my Godfather in baptism. Though she has no child of her own she cared for the Manuela family when she was still strong. After undergoing surgery in 1999, she was taken by Ofel’s family to be cared and looked after. Living in the same residence, I am a witness to her being an example of a very prayerful woman. Many a time I see her lighting a candle before the images of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Blessed Mother Mary where she would spend hours of praying daily. Every morning, too, she humbly waits for us after the Mass, to receive Jesus in the Sacrament of Holy Communion. One cannot but be edified by her quiet demeanor and Godly presence.
Through the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement I had the chance to meet several potential brides. When I met Miss Ofelia de la Cruz Quimosing on Feb. 19, 1982 during a wake where we both led a Bible Service for the dead, I was, indeed, attracted by her beauty and modest behavior. I also had the strong feeling that she was the one whom God meant to be my wife. I then started courting her. Even with very strong opposition on the part of her parents and sisters, with the exception of Cherry, her youngest sister, I pursued my desire to win her. We stormed heaven with our prayers, so that all obstacles would give way to our union in marriage. God’s ways are simple and truly wonderful. It was a letter from Rev. Fr. Oscar Deltour from far away Belgium that finally made the parents of Ofel give their blessing to our special relationship. Why? Because the Fr. Oscar that was like a father to me at the seminary was the same Fr. Oscar who married the parents of Ofel and who remained their spiritual father through the years. Thus, finally on December 22, 1982, with Most Rev. Teodulfo Domingo as the presider and eight other priests as concelebrants in a Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, Ofel and I administered to each other the Sacrament of Matrimony.
In asking for the hand of Ofel, foremost in my mind was the need for someone on whom I could rely for moral support in my spiritual journey towards my eternal destiny. Aware of my weaknesses and of my sinful ways in the past, I longed for someone who could edify and strengthen me in my struggles for holiness. I saw in Ofel what I longed for. Her Godliness in behavior and the sincere manifestations of her Christian faith in word and deed impressed me. I, therefore, thank God for the great blessing He gave me in the person of my wife, Ofel.
Ofel first started teaching at the Public Elementary School of Tuguegarao, being a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education graduate of the Philippine Normal College in 1965. In 1969 she obtained a scholarship on Special Education (SPED) at the University of the Philippines and graduated with a Master’s Degree in SPED in 1971. After her scholarship, she handled classes in SPED for children with behavioral problems and later on served as Guidance Counselor of Tuguegarao Central School. In 1976, after ten years in the public schools, she accepted an offer to serve at the National Labor Relations Commission, Regional Arbitration Branch No. 2, where she served in different capacities until she got her present position as Labor Arbitration Associate. While serving in the government, she makes time after office hours to also serve the church. She is active in several religious organizations and movements, like the Legion of Mary, Catholic Women League, Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement, and the PREX Secretariat. Aside from these, she is also active in civic organizations being a Board Member of the Girl Scout Cagayan Council and an officer of the Premier Tuguegarao Woman’s Club. She even finds time to serve as a Marriage Counselor to couples about to get married. Even with all these involvements, Ofel remains to be a dutiful caring wife. She ensures provisions for our everyday needs at home and also does the household chores like laundering, ironing and cleaning activities. Without her, I would not know how I could cope with life here on earth. I pray therefore, that if this be in accordance with God’s will, He will take me ahead of her to “OUR FATHER’S HOUSE”.
After journeying together as husband and wife for a period of thirteen years, Ofel and I were blessed unexpectedly with an Award from His Holiness Pope John Paul II. On December 22, 1995, our 13th Wedding Anniversary, our Archbishop, Most Rev. Diosdado A. Talamayan, DD conferred on Ofel the Papal Award of Dame of St. Sylvester, and on me the Papal Award of Knight of St. Sylvester. It is very seldom, they say, that this Award is given simultaneously to both husband and wife.
God has also blessed me with God-fearing parents-in-law. My father-in-law, Conrado Quimosing, was a very humble and quiet person. For about nine years before his death on Feb. 25, 1991 that I had the chance to know him, I found myself respecting and loving him. He found joy in making himself available to extend a helping hand to anyone in the family who needs his help. When he got sick, I witnessed him endure his bodily pains without any murmur. God blessed me with his example of patience and fortitude in bearing the cross of his sickness. My mother-in-law, Roberta de la Cruz Quimosing, is also a very religious woman. She goes to Mass everyday, missing it only when she is sick. Gifted with a “green thumb” she enjoys gardening and with her eye for beauty, she arranges her garden beautifully making it refreshing. She finds recreation in playing mahjong with chosen friends but she always makes it a point to refrain from playing throughout the whole Lenten season as an act of sacrifice. She also never tires especially when she was stronger, to gather the whole family to a get-together at least once a week so as to partake of the delicious food that she herself prepares and also to pray the rosary together as one big family. I found in her a real mother who truly cares and anticipates the needs of her children.
With Ofel as my wife, I am blessed with three sisters-in-law.
1. Imelda Lourdes (Lou) – the eldest among them was an Elementary School Teacher, handling Home Economics subjects. She got married to Dr. Henry Ridad, a retired Army General and a dentist by profession. They are blessed with one child, Louhen. They are now living in San Diego, California, USA. Before migrating to America, they used to invite us at their residence in Caritan Norte on special occasions and even when there was no occasion at all, to partake of the delicious meals that she prepares. Lou is a very good cook. She is also a very practical manager with an abundance of resourcefulness and creativity. She is very generous and shares whatever she thinks would make one happy.
2. Estela Evelyn (Evie) – more than a year younger than Ofel is a brilliant writer. Through a scholarship program she also finished a Master’s degree in Reading at the University of the Philippines. She first served as a teacher in Public Elementary Schools for some years. Later on she opted to join Ofel at National Labor Relations Commission, Region 2. She is also occupying the position of a Labor Arbitration Associate. Although she has some health problems, she has managed to involve herself in several church activities. Right now she is the Secretary of the Tuguegarao Parish Pastoral Council. During PREX Seminars, she usually handles one of the ten talks. In spite of her charming beauty she had so far eluded several suitors as she is content in enjoying the state of single blessedness. In word and deed, Evie stands out as a model of good Christian behavior.
3. Paz Rosario (Cherry), the youngest among the sisters, exudes a pleasing personality, blessed with both beauty and brains. As a BSEE graduate of PNC she also first started to serve as a Public Elementary School Teacher. Spotted to be an asset, Dr. Pura T. Liban, then a Division Supervisor, pulled her out of the classroom to be detailed at the Division Office of Cagayan. Later on, she transferred to the Department of Health and then to the Government Service Insurance System, where she decided to take advantage of the early retirement scheme that was then offered. Married to Mr. Simplicio Erick Perez, they are blessed with four children (two girls and two boys): Richelyn Anne (Chi-Anne), Raymond Shaft (Toto), John Erickson (JE), and Maria Erika Rose (Zazza). Cherry and Eric are both very enterprising and they have ventured into the business of medical supplies and equipment as well as grocery and gift items. Although faced with stiff competition, they have managed to keep alive and strong their business endeavors. Busy as they are, now and then they manage to invite us to their residence at Alimanao or to a special eatery in the city to treat us with delicious food. Cherry is a very good story teller and thus, gives joy to those listening to her. She is surely a great blessing to the family and to all who have the privilege of being touched by her life.
Lately, Chi-Anne who got married to Mr. Joel Domingo, gave birth to a baby girl (Janelle Anne Charisse) on July 25, 2004. She is the first grandchild of Cherry and Erick and is, indeed, a “bundle of joy” to all of us.
I would like to mention also two aunties of my wife, who have showered on her and her sisters so much constant care and support.
1. Miss Ermelecinda (Auntie Iging) de la Cruz was an Elementary School Teacher. Ofel tells me that being single, much of her blessings in life were generously shared especially on her and her sisters and that she greatly supported them financially in obtaining their education. At the time I met her, she was already retired from the service. Knowing her personally for the remaining eight years of her life, I was so impressed with her humility and simple life style. While she suffered a lingering sickness, I never heard a complaint from her lips. She exuded the virtue of patience and a childlike submission to the will of God for before her illness she was also a daily Mass goer.
2. Mrs. Mercedes (Auntie Ceding) de la Cruz Manuela, who will be 92 years old on December 14, 2004, was also an Elementary School Teacher. In her early forties she got married to Mr. Vicente Manuela who I learned was my Godfather in baptism. Though she has no child of her own she cared for the Manuela family when she was still strong. After undergoing surgery in 1999, she was taken by Ofel’s family to be cared and looked after. Living in the same residence, I am a witness to her being an example of a very prayerful woman. Many a time I see her lighting a candle before the images of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Blessed Mother Mary where she would spend hours of praying daily. Every morning, too, she humbly waits for us after the Mass, to receive Jesus in the Sacrament of Holy Communion. One cannot but be edified by her quiet demeanor and Godly presence.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS AN EDUCATOR
As I mentioned earlier, I resigned from my position as Office Manager of the KCFAPI in 1964, and ventured into the teaching profession.
From 1964 to 1966, I taught at the Finance Department of the College of Business Administration of the University of the East. From Dean Santiago de la Cruz and co-professors, I learned the ropes of an effective classroom management.
At the start of school year 1966-67, Ateneo de Manila University offered me some teaching loads at the Graduate School of Business Administration. Considering this a challenge to advance in the teaching career, coupled with a very substantial increase in pay, I readily accepted the offer. Here I really had to do much research work and spent a lot of time preparing for my classes, especially because my students were mostly professionals – accountants, managers, engineers, businessmen, teachers, doctors and even priests. I thank God for blessing me with a special innate aptitude for teaching which enabled me to really help my students in developing their critical thinking and managerial skills. Some of them even when I was no longer connected with Ateneo, came to visit me and manifested their gratitude and appreciation for what they have imbibed from my teaching.
In school year 1967-68, I received another challenge – to start a new College at Urdaneta, Pangasinan, under the SVD Fathers. My role then was to be the Dean of the College Department. It was a hard decision for me to make. Some of my relatives and friends pointed to the alternative cost of losing a very prestigious position at the Graduate School of Ateneo de Manila University. But the opportunity to be of greater service to my fellowmen, and to be in a better position to engage in the task of evangelization, finally made me decide to accept the challenge. For four school years I served as College Dean of the Divine Word College of Urdaneta. Here I gained the friendship of many people – but the closest of them all were Mr. and Mrs. Felipe Chanco, who became like surrogate parents to me. They treated me like a son, and generously shared whatever they could to make me and my family enjoy life in Urdaneta. God really blessed me with their loving concern and generosity.
At the start of schoolyear 1971-72, a friend, Engr. Jose Hipolito, persuaded me to accept the College Deanship at St. Louis College of Tuguegarao. The opportunity to be near my folks and serve in my own hometown became the deciding factor in accepting the position. During my stint as College Dean, I engaged my students in extra-curricular activities. Hence, we got involved in the campaign for clean and honest elections, so much so that I was appointed Municipal Chairman of CNEA (Citizens National Electoral Assembly). Later I also accepted the challenge of CCT (Cagayan Teachers College) for my students to have a public debate on the issue of Cityhood of Tuguegarao. After the debate of the students, there was a clamor for a debate on the said issue among professionals. The late Honorable Mayor Apolonio Reyes, who was then a practicing lawyer immediately took up the cudgel and accepted the challenge to lead the professional debaters on the negative side. The Honorable Justice of the Court of Appeals, Atty. Hilarion Aquino, who was then an Executive Officer of CCT, also accepted the challenge to lead the team on the positive side. The date of the public debate was agreed upon but members of the debating teams were still to be determined. Atty. Reyes eyed on me to be a member of his team. I have never before been exposed to public debates but I readily accepted the offer, relying on my expertise to dwell on the economic aspect for a Cityhood. The debate was held as scheduled. All spaces fronting the Dupaya Stage which served as the venue were filled with eager listeners, and practically even all the streets surrounding the municipal hall were lined with people. There was no judgment on who won in the debate but both sides were wildly applauded. It was considered the “Debate of the Century”. As a kind of by-product, this debate gave a region wide publicity to the existence of St. Louis College of Tuguegarao.
Shortly before the end of Schoolyear 1971-72, Rev. Fr. Roger Tijole, the CICM School Superintendent at that time, called me to a private conference and told me that they plan to close the College Department of SLCT due to a very low enrollment – at that time there were less than 300 students. Wanting to retain my services as Dean he offered to transfer me to a bigger school, St. Louis College of San Fernando, La Union. To further persuade me, he offered to increase my salary and give me some fringe benefits like free schooling for all my children, including their textbooks and school supplies. Since my priority then as a family man was the education of my children, I consented to the proposal. Incidentally, I learned later on that the closure of SLCT College Dept. did not materialize, because the enrollment in the following school year almost doubled, far exceeding the viable number of 300.
So in school year 1971-72, I found myself in another CICM School at San Fernando, La Union, serving as Dean of the Commerce Department. My whole family came along with me and so we had to rent a house near the school for our residence. My wife then was also taken by the school to teach Home Economics. Things were going very well as we readily adjusted ourselves to the new environment. Unfortunately, on September 21, 1972, President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law. Classes in all schools throughout the country came to a sudden standstill. A few days after this standstill situation of schools, our School President, Rev. Fr. Gerard de Boeck, called us to a meeting and said : “If classes will not be resumed, this will be your last pay check.” We countered: “What about our contract?” And he replied: “The contract does not hold water any more.” We, therefore, further inquired: “Does that mean we are now free to seek employment elsewhere?” And he answered: “Yes, you are now free to be employed anywhere.”
With a big family to support, and residing in a town where we had no relatives to run to for help, I prayed to the Lord for His providential assistance for our survival for we had no savings at all and the money we had then was just enough for a one month budget. At this crucial moment I again experienced the loving care of God. Hardly a few days have elapsed after that appeal for help, Rev. Fr. Ambrosio Manaligod, SVD, the President of Divine Word College of Laoag, visited me at our residence in San Fernando, La Union. The College was in need of someone with an MBA degree to serve as Dean of the Business Administration Department. Having been informed of my qualification as an MBA degree holder, he sought to engage my services. Aside from my usual monthly remuneration, he offered to give my family free housing accommodation including light and water as well as a reimbursement of all school expenses for all my children. He even offered to repay, in full, the loan that I got from St. Louis College of San Fernando. The offer was too good for me to deny, and so I committed myself to transfer to Divine Word College of Laoag by the start of the second semester of that school year.
Fortunately, classes were resumed by the first week of October 1972, and I was now with my family in Laoag City. The whole family enjoyed our stay at Laoag City from 1972 to 1975. We were housed at a former Home Economics Building adjacent to the Cathedral. Practically everything was near our reach – the church, the school, the market and business establishments. We were readily accepted by the community and were invited to participate in social gatherings. When the Holy Spirit Academy of Loaog presented the play “The Sound of Music” to the public, I was asked to take the role of Captain Vontrap. This added to my popularity and widened the horizon of my influence in the academic community of the city.
In March of 1975, I received another call. The then Governor of Cagayan, Hon. Maria Teresa Dupaya, was scouting for someone to head a new department that will take charge of the planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating of development projects for the province of Cagayan. Cagayan was chosen as a PDAP Province and funds were offered by USA for its development projects. Due to the urgency of the need and my desire again to serve my Co-Cagayanos, I responded to the call and had to transfer again with my whole family to Tuguegarao at the end of SY 1974-75.
My stint as a Provincial Development Coordinator was short lived. The maneuverings of politicians in the higher ups caused me to tender my resignation after the expiration of the one-year contract.
So, at the start of SY 1976-77, I was back in the field of education – this time at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. Sister Nathaniel Rocero, Spc, a contemporary of mine during the Japanese occupation, introduced me to the President of SPCT, Sis. Benjamine Ponce. The college was in need of an MBA graduate to head the Dept. of Business Administration. After a perusal of my credentials, I was offered the position. Two years later (1978) SPCT opened an MBA program at the Graduate School, and I was tasked to serve as an Associate Dean of the Graduate School with the MBA program as my area of responsibility. Through this program, the opportunity was opened to several government employees as well as personnel in the private sector to obtain a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, and thus enhance their capability to be promoted to higher positions.
In 1978 SPCT presented the play “Thirteen Daughter” and I was chosen to be a member of the cast with the role of “Chun” the Chinese father of the 13 daughters. This play was a hit and considered among the best plays ever presented by SPCT.
In 1988 there was a felt need, especially among the maintenance personnel, for a lending agency that could offer them some financial assistance with a low interest rate. Together with Sis. Adel Bonzon, Spc. who was in charge of the maintenance, we proposed the formation of a Credit Cooperative. Having been engaged in the organization of cooperatives when I was connected with the Knights of Columbus Headquarters in Manila, I offered my services to orient them on the principles of cooperativism and the mechanics for organizing and managing a Cooperative. With only P3,000 as paid share capital, Sis. Ma. Angela Barrios, SPU President, (SPCT became a University in 1982) voluntarily offered a loan of P10,000 without interest, so we could start the ball rolling for a Credit Cooperative. This year, 2004, sixteen years after its establishment, SPU Multi-Purpose Cooperative has a Paid-Up Share Capital of more than ten Million.
In October of 1988, after twelve years of serving as an Educator at SPU and having reached the age of 60, with no more financial obligations for the education of my children, I opted to apply for retirement and spend the rest of my productive years in the field of evangelization.
From 1964 to 1966, I taught at the Finance Department of the College of Business Administration of the University of the East. From Dean Santiago de la Cruz and co-professors, I learned the ropes of an effective classroom management.
At the start of school year 1966-67, Ateneo de Manila University offered me some teaching loads at the Graduate School of Business Administration. Considering this a challenge to advance in the teaching career, coupled with a very substantial increase in pay, I readily accepted the offer. Here I really had to do much research work and spent a lot of time preparing for my classes, especially because my students were mostly professionals – accountants, managers, engineers, businessmen, teachers, doctors and even priests. I thank God for blessing me with a special innate aptitude for teaching which enabled me to really help my students in developing their critical thinking and managerial skills. Some of them even when I was no longer connected with Ateneo, came to visit me and manifested their gratitude and appreciation for what they have imbibed from my teaching.
In school year 1967-68, I received another challenge – to start a new College at Urdaneta, Pangasinan, under the SVD Fathers. My role then was to be the Dean of the College Department. It was a hard decision for me to make. Some of my relatives and friends pointed to the alternative cost of losing a very prestigious position at the Graduate School of Ateneo de Manila University. But the opportunity to be of greater service to my fellowmen, and to be in a better position to engage in the task of evangelization, finally made me decide to accept the challenge. For four school years I served as College Dean of the Divine Word College of Urdaneta. Here I gained the friendship of many people – but the closest of them all were Mr. and Mrs. Felipe Chanco, who became like surrogate parents to me. They treated me like a son, and generously shared whatever they could to make me and my family enjoy life in Urdaneta. God really blessed me with their loving concern and generosity.
At the start of schoolyear 1971-72, a friend, Engr. Jose Hipolito, persuaded me to accept the College Deanship at St. Louis College of Tuguegarao. The opportunity to be near my folks and serve in my own hometown became the deciding factor in accepting the position. During my stint as College Dean, I engaged my students in extra-curricular activities. Hence, we got involved in the campaign for clean and honest elections, so much so that I was appointed Municipal Chairman of CNEA (Citizens National Electoral Assembly). Later I also accepted the challenge of CCT (Cagayan Teachers College) for my students to have a public debate on the issue of Cityhood of Tuguegarao. After the debate of the students, there was a clamor for a debate on the said issue among professionals. The late Honorable Mayor Apolonio Reyes, who was then a practicing lawyer immediately took up the cudgel and accepted the challenge to lead the professional debaters on the negative side. The Honorable Justice of the Court of Appeals, Atty. Hilarion Aquino, who was then an Executive Officer of CCT, also accepted the challenge to lead the team on the positive side. The date of the public debate was agreed upon but members of the debating teams were still to be determined. Atty. Reyes eyed on me to be a member of his team. I have never before been exposed to public debates but I readily accepted the offer, relying on my expertise to dwell on the economic aspect for a Cityhood. The debate was held as scheduled. All spaces fronting the Dupaya Stage which served as the venue were filled with eager listeners, and practically even all the streets surrounding the municipal hall were lined with people. There was no judgment on who won in the debate but both sides were wildly applauded. It was considered the “Debate of the Century”. As a kind of by-product, this debate gave a region wide publicity to the existence of St. Louis College of Tuguegarao.
Shortly before the end of Schoolyear 1971-72, Rev. Fr. Roger Tijole, the CICM School Superintendent at that time, called me to a private conference and told me that they plan to close the College Department of SLCT due to a very low enrollment – at that time there were less than 300 students. Wanting to retain my services as Dean he offered to transfer me to a bigger school, St. Louis College of San Fernando, La Union. To further persuade me, he offered to increase my salary and give me some fringe benefits like free schooling for all my children, including their textbooks and school supplies. Since my priority then as a family man was the education of my children, I consented to the proposal. Incidentally, I learned later on that the closure of SLCT College Dept. did not materialize, because the enrollment in the following school year almost doubled, far exceeding the viable number of 300.
So in school year 1971-72, I found myself in another CICM School at San Fernando, La Union, serving as Dean of the Commerce Department. My whole family came along with me and so we had to rent a house near the school for our residence. My wife then was also taken by the school to teach Home Economics. Things were going very well as we readily adjusted ourselves to the new environment. Unfortunately, on September 21, 1972, President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law. Classes in all schools throughout the country came to a sudden standstill. A few days after this standstill situation of schools, our School President, Rev. Fr. Gerard de Boeck, called us to a meeting and said : “If classes will not be resumed, this will be your last pay check.” We countered: “What about our contract?” And he replied: “The contract does not hold water any more.” We, therefore, further inquired: “Does that mean we are now free to seek employment elsewhere?” And he answered: “Yes, you are now free to be employed anywhere.”
With a big family to support, and residing in a town where we had no relatives to run to for help, I prayed to the Lord for His providential assistance for our survival for we had no savings at all and the money we had then was just enough for a one month budget. At this crucial moment I again experienced the loving care of God. Hardly a few days have elapsed after that appeal for help, Rev. Fr. Ambrosio Manaligod, SVD, the President of Divine Word College of Laoag, visited me at our residence in San Fernando, La Union. The College was in need of someone with an MBA degree to serve as Dean of the Business Administration Department. Having been informed of my qualification as an MBA degree holder, he sought to engage my services. Aside from my usual monthly remuneration, he offered to give my family free housing accommodation including light and water as well as a reimbursement of all school expenses for all my children. He even offered to repay, in full, the loan that I got from St. Louis College of San Fernando. The offer was too good for me to deny, and so I committed myself to transfer to Divine Word College of Laoag by the start of the second semester of that school year.
Fortunately, classes were resumed by the first week of October 1972, and I was now with my family in Laoag City. The whole family enjoyed our stay at Laoag City from 1972 to 1975. We were housed at a former Home Economics Building adjacent to the Cathedral. Practically everything was near our reach – the church, the school, the market and business establishments. We were readily accepted by the community and were invited to participate in social gatherings. When the Holy Spirit Academy of Loaog presented the play “The Sound of Music” to the public, I was asked to take the role of Captain Vontrap. This added to my popularity and widened the horizon of my influence in the academic community of the city.
In March of 1975, I received another call. The then Governor of Cagayan, Hon. Maria Teresa Dupaya, was scouting for someone to head a new department that will take charge of the planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating of development projects for the province of Cagayan. Cagayan was chosen as a PDAP Province and funds were offered by USA for its development projects. Due to the urgency of the need and my desire again to serve my Co-Cagayanos, I responded to the call and had to transfer again with my whole family to Tuguegarao at the end of SY 1974-75.
My stint as a Provincial Development Coordinator was short lived. The maneuverings of politicians in the higher ups caused me to tender my resignation after the expiration of the one-year contract.
So, at the start of SY 1976-77, I was back in the field of education – this time at St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. Sister Nathaniel Rocero, Spc, a contemporary of mine during the Japanese occupation, introduced me to the President of SPCT, Sis. Benjamine Ponce. The college was in need of an MBA graduate to head the Dept. of Business Administration. After a perusal of my credentials, I was offered the position. Two years later (1978) SPCT opened an MBA program at the Graduate School, and I was tasked to serve as an Associate Dean of the Graduate School with the MBA program as my area of responsibility. Through this program, the opportunity was opened to several government employees as well as personnel in the private sector to obtain a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, and thus enhance their capability to be promoted to higher positions.
In 1978 SPCT presented the play “Thirteen Daughter” and I was chosen to be a member of the cast with the role of “Chun” the Chinese father of the 13 daughters. This play was a hit and considered among the best plays ever presented by SPCT.
In 1988 there was a felt need, especially among the maintenance personnel, for a lending agency that could offer them some financial assistance with a low interest rate. Together with Sis. Adel Bonzon, Spc. who was in charge of the maintenance, we proposed the formation of a Credit Cooperative. Having been engaged in the organization of cooperatives when I was connected with the Knights of Columbus Headquarters in Manila, I offered my services to orient them on the principles of cooperativism and the mechanics for organizing and managing a Cooperative. With only P3,000 as paid share capital, Sis. Ma. Angela Barrios, SPU President, (SPCT became a University in 1982) voluntarily offered a loan of P10,000 without interest, so we could start the ball rolling for a Credit Cooperative. This year, 2004, sixteen years after its establishment, SPU Multi-Purpose Cooperative has a Paid-Up Share Capital of more than ten Million.
In October of 1988, after twelve years of serving as an Educator at SPU and having reached the age of 60, with no more financial obligations for the education of my children, I opted to apply for retirement and spend the rest of my productive years in the field of evangelization.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS A GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE
Although I served for only one year at the Provincial Government of Cagayan as an Assistant/Acting Provincial Development Coordinator, I thank God for having given me the opportunity to use my managerial skills in the planning of development projects for Cagayan and in their subsequent implementation, monitoring and evaluation. In the process, my own management know-how and ability were enhanced, making me more capable of handling MBA subjects.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS A PUBLIC SERVANT
In 1980, although still connected with SPCT, I was elected to serve as a Municipal Councilor (Kagawad) in the town of Tuguegarao. Hon. Apolonio Reyes was our Mayor, Hon. Edwin Pascua was our Vice-Mayor, and my Co-Councilors were: Hon. Supremo Bautista, Hon. Victor Perez, Hon. Arnel Arugay, Hon. Plaridel Israel, Hon. Dominador Narag, Hon. Dominador Soriano, Hon. Asuncion Baculi, and Hon. Joseph Abraham. Working together as a team, we created ordinances, made budget proposals, monitored and evaluated municipal projects, and deliberated on issues affecting the welfare of the municipality as a whole. One of the projects that could be attributed to our administration was the construction of the Don Domingo Central Market.
I served as a Kagawad for a period of eight years. In 1988 I opted not to run anymore for re-election, since I felt a calling of the Lord to dedicate myself to the task of evangelization, particularly in the Catechetical Ministry, where I was commissioned by our Archbishop, His Excellency Diosdado A. Talamayan, to serve as Archdiocesan Catechetical Coordinator and Trainor.
I served as a Kagawad for a period of eight years. In 1988 I opted not to run anymore for re-election, since I felt a calling of the Lord to dedicate myself to the task of evangelization, particularly in the Catechetical Ministry, where I was commissioned by our Archbishop, His Excellency Diosdado A. Talamayan, to serve as Archdiocesan Catechetical Coordinator and Trainor.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS A PILGRIM
A long distance call from Mrs. Nora Garganera of the Executives Resources,
Inc. on Dec. 9, 1997 took me by surprise. A Pilgrimage to the Holy Land was offered to me as a Gift, having been a member of the National Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement Council, representing the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. Without much ado I accepted the offer and made myself available for the trip. The offer was, indeed, an answer to a prayer I lifted up to the Lord two years ago when I asked Him to give me an opportunity to visit the Holy Land before I breathe out my last breath.
And so, on Feb. 2, 1998 I found myself together with 30 other pilgrims raring to board the PAL flight to Bangkok and from there to Tel Aviv thru the EL-AL Israel Airlines.
For me, the pilgrimage was educational, enjoyable, exciting, enriching, and
envigorating.
Educational - What were mere pictures or imaginations before have now become realities for me. I saw for myself the places and spots where Jesus, Our Lord, lived historically. Among the most memorable for me are the following:
Bethlehem – where Jesus was born
Nazareth – where He lived for about thirty years
Jordan River – where He was baptized by St. John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-15)
Mount of Temptations – where He underwent forty days of fasting and
temptations after His baptism (Matthew 4:1-11)
Cana – where He performed His first miracle in a wedding celebration (John 2:1-11)
Capernaum – where He performed most of His miracles
Caesaria Philippi – where Simon Peter acknowledged Jesus as the
Messiah, the Son of the Living God (Mark 8:27-30)
Sea of Galilee – where He walked and calmed a storm (Matthew 8:23-27)
Tabgha – where He fed 5000 people with 5 loaves and 2 fish (Matthew 14:13-21)
Gergesa – where He healed two demon-possessed men, driving the
demons to a herd of pigs who rushed down into the Sea of Galilee and drowned
Nain – where He raised to life the dead son of a widow (Luke 7:11-17)
Jericho – where He saw the tax collector Zaccheus on a sycamore tree.
This is considered to be the oldest city in the world to have been discovered so far – the cradle of civilization as far back as 7,000 to
10,000 B.C.
Mount of Beatitudes – where He uttered the immortal words of the
Beatitudes, considered to be the basic principles of Christian Life
Mount of Olives – where He foretold the destruction of Jerusalem, taught
the Lord’s Prayer, spent the nights in prayer, and where He ascended to heaven.
Bethany – Home of Lazarus, Martha and Mary and site of Jesus’
Ascension
Jerusalem – which has been crowned as Queen of the world’s cities for 30
centuries. This is the religious capital of half of the human race. To the Jews it is the symbol of their past glories and the hope of their future. To the Moslems it is the city where the Prophet Mohammed is believed to have ascended to heaven. To the Christians it is the city of Jesus’ last ministry, the city which saw Jesus die and rise from the dead.
Western Wall (Wailing Wall) – is the holiest shrine of the Jewish world.
It is revered as the last relic of the last Temple. The Western Wall is a portion of the retaining wall that Herod built around the second temple in 20 B.C. For the Jews this is a place for national rejoicing as well as a place of worship.
Mt. Tabor – where Jesus was gloriously transfigured in the presence of
Peter, John and James
Mt. Zion – site of the Last Supper
Garden of Gethsamane – where Jesus on His last night underwent the
most sorrowful hour of his passion. It was here that we lifted up to the Lord our special petitions.
Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrows) – is deemed to be the pathway Jesus
followed in carrying the Cross from Pontius Pilate’s judgment hall, where He was condemned to death.
Calvary – believed to be the site of the crucifixion of Our Lord
Tomb of Christ – located at the foot of Calvary. It was hewn out of a
rock by Joseph of Arimathea’s family
Basilica of the Dormition – marks the site where Blessed Mother Mary
died.
Jaffa (Joppa) – meaning “beautiful”, is where Peter raised Tabitha from
the dead and where he had a vision in which God asked him to preach also to the heathens the Word of God.
Rock of Mt. Moriah – where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son,
Isaac. It marks the original site of the Temple where Jesus was presented to the Father and where He taught among the Scribes and Pharisees.
Dead Sea – considered the lowest point on the earth’s surface, it lies 1,300
feet below sea level. It is called the Dead Sea, because of the absence of any animal life in its waters. It is the most salt saturated water in the world, containing about 26 percent solids. Thus one can float on the water without making the slightest movement.
Enjoyable, - The hotels where we stayed, namely: NOF GINOSAR in Galilee,
FOUR POINTS in Tiberias, and HOLIDAY INN CROWNE in Jerusalem provided us with nutritious and delicious food as well as excellent accommodations.
Exciting, - It was, indeed, exciting to have experienced life as it was lived during the time of Jesus in a rural area – plowing, winnowing, baking, eating a typical Jewish meal under a tent, and riding on a donkey. Touching nature itself, by sailing on a boat at the Sea of Galilee, being baptized by immersion at the river Jordan and floating at the Dead Sea, were experiences that thrilled my heart.
Enriching - The orientations given by our tour guides as well as the homilies of our two chaplains, Rev. Fr. Leonardo Polinar and Rev. Fr. Peregrino Alar, filled my mind and spirit with much food for thought. The faith sharings of my co-pilgrims were likewise inspiring.
Envigorating, On several instances during this pilgrimage I felt the loving
Presence of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Thus I grew in my faith and was recharged in my commitment to serve Him wholeheartedly.
The commitment that I made to the Lord can be capsulized by four letters: E L – A L, which happens to be the name of the airline that brought us to Israel. In Hebrew EL-AL means “God Above”, but for me it means:
E – nthusiasm: Serve the Lord with enthusiasm
L – ove - Love Him even in the unlovable
A – dore – Adore Him in the Blessed Sacrament, by
attending Holy Mass daily, visiting Him at least once a week for one hour at the Blessed Sacrament, and talking to at least one person a week about Jesus, the Messiah.
L – ove – Love Him especially among the people you work
with.
This then is a Pilgrimage to remember, which I shall treasure for the rest of my life.
Coming home from the Holy Land, I brought along with me some souvenirs, like blessed olive oil, blessed water, rosaries, crucifixes and other relics which I shared with my relatives and friends. I praise God that through these sacred objects, especially the blessed olive oil and blessed water, many have experienced divine healing. To cite an example, Ate Epy Decena who has been afflicted with a skin disease in her legs for quite a long time despite many kinds of treatment, suddenly saw the scales of dead skin being removed as she anointed herself with the blessed olive oil from Jerusalem. Now and then there are still some friends asking for even a few drops of this blessed olive oil, which has been God’s instrument in extending His divine healing.
Inc. on Dec. 9, 1997 took me by surprise. A Pilgrimage to the Holy Land was offered to me as a Gift, having been a member of the National Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement Council, representing the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. Without much ado I accepted the offer and made myself available for the trip. The offer was, indeed, an answer to a prayer I lifted up to the Lord two years ago when I asked Him to give me an opportunity to visit the Holy Land before I breathe out my last breath.
And so, on Feb. 2, 1998 I found myself together with 30 other pilgrims raring to board the PAL flight to Bangkok and from there to Tel Aviv thru the EL-AL Israel Airlines.
For me, the pilgrimage was educational, enjoyable, exciting, enriching, and
envigorating.
Educational - What were mere pictures or imaginations before have now become realities for me. I saw for myself the places and spots where Jesus, Our Lord, lived historically. Among the most memorable for me are the following:
Bethlehem – where Jesus was born
Nazareth – where He lived for about thirty years
Jordan River – where He was baptized by St. John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-15)
Mount of Temptations – where He underwent forty days of fasting and
temptations after His baptism (Matthew 4:1-11)
Cana – where He performed His first miracle in a wedding celebration (John 2:1-11)
Capernaum – where He performed most of His miracles
Caesaria Philippi – where Simon Peter acknowledged Jesus as the
Messiah, the Son of the Living God (Mark 8:27-30)
Sea of Galilee – where He walked and calmed a storm (Matthew 8:23-27)
Tabgha – where He fed 5000 people with 5 loaves and 2 fish (Matthew 14:13-21)
Gergesa – where He healed two demon-possessed men, driving the
demons to a herd of pigs who rushed down into the Sea of Galilee and drowned
Nain – where He raised to life the dead son of a widow (Luke 7:11-17)
Jericho – where He saw the tax collector Zaccheus on a sycamore tree.
This is considered to be the oldest city in the world to have been discovered so far – the cradle of civilization as far back as 7,000 to
10,000 B.C.
Mount of Beatitudes – where He uttered the immortal words of the
Beatitudes, considered to be the basic principles of Christian Life
Mount of Olives – where He foretold the destruction of Jerusalem, taught
the Lord’s Prayer, spent the nights in prayer, and where He ascended to heaven.
Bethany – Home of Lazarus, Martha and Mary and site of Jesus’
Ascension
Jerusalem – which has been crowned as Queen of the world’s cities for 30
centuries. This is the religious capital of half of the human race. To the Jews it is the symbol of their past glories and the hope of their future. To the Moslems it is the city where the Prophet Mohammed is believed to have ascended to heaven. To the Christians it is the city of Jesus’ last ministry, the city which saw Jesus die and rise from the dead.
Western Wall (Wailing Wall) – is the holiest shrine of the Jewish world.
It is revered as the last relic of the last Temple. The Western Wall is a portion of the retaining wall that Herod built around the second temple in 20 B.C. For the Jews this is a place for national rejoicing as well as a place of worship.
Mt. Tabor – where Jesus was gloriously transfigured in the presence of
Peter, John and James
Mt. Zion – site of the Last Supper
Garden of Gethsamane – where Jesus on His last night underwent the
most sorrowful hour of his passion. It was here that we lifted up to the Lord our special petitions.
Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrows) – is deemed to be the pathway Jesus
followed in carrying the Cross from Pontius Pilate’s judgment hall, where He was condemned to death.
Calvary – believed to be the site of the crucifixion of Our Lord
Tomb of Christ – located at the foot of Calvary. It was hewn out of a
rock by Joseph of Arimathea’s family
Basilica of the Dormition – marks the site where Blessed Mother Mary
died.
Jaffa (Joppa) – meaning “beautiful”, is where Peter raised Tabitha from
the dead and where he had a vision in which God asked him to preach also to the heathens the Word of God.
Rock of Mt. Moriah – where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son,
Isaac. It marks the original site of the Temple where Jesus was presented to the Father and where He taught among the Scribes and Pharisees.
Dead Sea – considered the lowest point on the earth’s surface, it lies 1,300
feet below sea level. It is called the Dead Sea, because of the absence of any animal life in its waters. It is the most salt saturated water in the world, containing about 26 percent solids. Thus one can float on the water without making the slightest movement.
Enjoyable, - The hotels where we stayed, namely: NOF GINOSAR in Galilee,
FOUR POINTS in Tiberias, and HOLIDAY INN CROWNE in Jerusalem provided us with nutritious and delicious food as well as excellent accommodations.
Exciting, - It was, indeed, exciting to have experienced life as it was lived during the time of Jesus in a rural area – plowing, winnowing, baking, eating a typical Jewish meal under a tent, and riding on a donkey. Touching nature itself, by sailing on a boat at the Sea of Galilee, being baptized by immersion at the river Jordan and floating at the Dead Sea, were experiences that thrilled my heart.
Enriching - The orientations given by our tour guides as well as the homilies of our two chaplains, Rev. Fr. Leonardo Polinar and Rev. Fr. Peregrino Alar, filled my mind and spirit with much food for thought. The faith sharings of my co-pilgrims were likewise inspiring.
Envigorating, On several instances during this pilgrimage I felt the loving
Presence of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Thus I grew in my faith and was recharged in my commitment to serve Him wholeheartedly.
The commitment that I made to the Lord can be capsulized by four letters: E L – A L, which happens to be the name of the airline that brought us to Israel. In Hebrew EL-AL means “God Above”, but for me it means:
E – nthusiasm: Serve the Lord with enthusiasm
L – ove - Love Him even in the unlovable
A – dore – Adore Him in the Blessed Sacrament, by
attending Holy Mass daily, visiting Him at least once a week for one hour at the Blessed Sacrament, and talking to at least one person a week about Jesus, the Messiah.
L – ove – Love Him especially among the people you work
with.
This then is a Pilgrimage to remember, which I shall treasure for the rest of my life.
Coming home from the Holy Land, I brought along with me some souvenirs, like blessed olive oil, blessed water, rosaries, crucifixes and other relics which I shared with my relatives and friends. I praise God that through these sacred objects, especially the blessed olive oil and blessed water, many have experienced divine healing. To cite an example, Ate Epy Decena who has been afflicted with a skin disease in her legs for quite a long time despite many kinds of treatment, suddenly saw the scales of dead skin being removed as she anointed herself with the blessed olive oil from Jerusalem. Now and then there are still some friends asking for even a few drops of this blessed olive oil, which has been God’s instrument in extending His divine healing.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS A TOURIST
In the year 1999 an unexpected TOURIST VISA was granted to my wife, Ofel, and myself. It gave us the opportunity to travel to Canada and stay there for a period of three months. Through the generosity of my sister, Luz, we received two round trip tickets. The occasion that served as the reason for our visa was the forthcoming wedding of our daughter, Margie, to her bridegroom, Jessie Basilio. It was at the condominium of Tom in Toronto, however, where we were accommodated during our sojourn of three months (June – August, 1999).
God blessed us with so many joyful experiences as we traveled to several beautiful establishments and parks in Canada, and dined in many exquisite restaurants. A wonder of nature that is still very vivid in my memory is the “NIAGARA FALLS”. Here I could not but just imagine how tremendous must be God’s power in creating such a wonderful phenomenon of nature that makes a vast amount of water fall rapidly, without any let-up, day and night. Another site that stuck to my memory is the CN TOWER, which is considered the tallest building in the world with 147 stories. The experience we had in going up to the highest story and from there have an overall view of Toronto City is, indeed, unforgettable. At Montreal, Quebec we also visited the second largest Church in the world – the magnificent Oratoire of Saint Joseph.
More than all these beautiful places, however, we were blessed by the very warm hospitality that we received not only from my sister Luz and the families of our children, Tom and Margie, but also from friends and acquaintances. To mention a few of them, we enjoyed the parties tendered by Hugh Mclean, Ben and Ester Anog, Maribelle Anog, Vic and Mattie Bancud, Remy and Veron Aquino, Gloria Caronan, Jane Baquiran Ducusin, Catalino and Letty Santos, Art and Zayda Villacete, Cesar and Chit Acorda Bugayong, Ramon and Ave Manuela Claveria, Chita Babaran Lontoc, Dothy Addun, Emma Babaran, and Heran de Pala. We also enjoyed participating in the reunions of the Cagayanos in Canada which they usually held in some of the beautiful parks there.
We also enjoyed the Boat Cruise with Luz and her former classmates at the Chinese General Hospital.
One of the most beautiful spots in the Philippines is a Beach Resort at an island called “BORACAY” in the province of Aklan. Through the courtesy of MRS. REZA RELOJ TEJADA and her husband, TITO, we were given the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature in this wonderful place. Reza is the 4-year college classmate and best “amiga” of my wife, Ofel.
Reza and Tito gifted us with round trip ticket by plane, and so we found ourselves on June 26, 1997 in Banga, Aklan, the hometown of Reza.
We enjoyed being in Aklan from June 26 to 30, 1997. Aside from enjoying the white sand and the warm refreshing waters of Boracay, we had the privilege of visiting the Chapel of the Pink Sisters at New Washington, Aklan, and the Cathedral of Kalibo, Aklan. We also enjoyed a day at Lezo, Aklan, with the family of Tito, and a sumptuous dinner at the residence of Reza’s niece, Dr. Thelma de la Cruz.
Reza and Tito are blessed with a handsome and gifted son, Charles, who is now about 15 years old.
Travelling is, indeed, a very good way of learning. It gives us a personal experience of the different cultures or life styles of people, and thus broadens our perspective in understanding life in this world.
God blessed us with so many joyful experiences as we traveled to several beautiful establishments and parks in Canada, and dined in many exquisite restaurants. A wonder of nature that is still very vivid in my memory is the “NIAGARA FALLS”. Here I could not but just imagine how tremendous must be God’s power in creating such a wonderful phenomenon of nature that makes a vast amount of water fall rapidly, without any let-up, day and night. Another site that stuck to my memory is the CN TOWER, which is considered the tallest building in the world with 147 stories. The experience we had in going up to the highest story and from there have an overall view of Toronto City is, indeed, unforgettable. At Montreal, Quebec we also visited the second largest Church in the world – the magnificent Oratoire of Saint Joseph.
More than all these beautiful places, however, we were blessed by the very warm hospitality that we received not only from my sister Luz and the families of our children, Tom and Margie, but also from friends and acquaintances. To mention a few of them, we enjoyed the parties tendered by Hugh Mclean, Ben and Ester Anog, Maribelle Anog, Vic and Mattie Bancud, Remy and Veron Aquino, Gloria Caronan, Jane Baquiran Ducusin, Catalino and Letty Santos, Art and Zayda Villacete, Cesar and Chit Acorda Bugayong, Ramon and Ave Manuela Claveria, Chita Babaran Lontoc, Dothy Addun, Emma Babaran, and Heran de Pala. We also enjoyed participating in the reunions of the Cagayanos in Canada which they usually held in some of the beautiful parks there.
We also enjoyed the Boat Cruise with Luz and her former classmates at the Chinese General Hospital.
One of the most beautiful spots in the Philippines is a Beach Resort at an island called “BORACAY” in the province of Aklan. Through the courtesy of MRS. REZA RELOJ TEJADA and her husband, TITO, we were given the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature in this wonderful place. Reza is the 4-year college classmate and best “amiga” of my wife, Ofel.
Reza and Tito gifted us with round trip ticket by plane, and so we found ourselves on June 26, 1997 in Banga, Aklan, the hometown of Reza.
We enjoyed being in Aklan from June 26 to 30, 1997. Aside from enjoying the white sand and the warm refreshing waters of Boracay, we had the privilege of visiting the Chapel of the Pink Sisters at New Washington, Aklan, and the Cathedral of Kalibo, Aklan. We also enjoyed a day at Lezo, Aklan, with the family of Tito, and a sumptuous dinner at the residence of Reza’s niece, Dr. Thelma de la Cruz.
Reza and Tito are blessed with a handsome and gifted son, Charles, who is now about 15 years old.
Travelling is, indeed, a very good way of learning. It gives us a personal experience of the different cultures or life styles of people, and thus broadens our perspective in understanding life in this world.
BLESSINGS IN MY LIFE AS AN EVANGELIZER
Although I was not ordained a priest, God gave me several opportunities to serve Him in spreading the “Good News”.
1.In the CURSILLO - a short course in Christianity, I was involved in giving talks, and even in serving as Rector several times. A co-seminarian and at that time (1968-1971) a parish priest in Urdaneta, Pangasinan, Rev. Fr. Elpidio Sison, became a close friend of mine and through him I immediately gained the trust and confidence of the lay church leaders in the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan.
2.In the Christian Family Movement, I was chosen together with my wife, Pilar, as the CFM Regional Director in the province of Pangasinan. With our own example as a CFM unit in the parish of Urdaneta, we spread this movement to several parishes in the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan.
3.In the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement – Pilar and I were among those who participated in the First Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS) that was conducted in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. That was in January 31 – February 2, 1977 at the Social Hall of St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. Coming out spiritually renewed from that seminar, we spearheaded the holding of LSS in the different parishes of the Archdiocese, and conducted Prayer Meetings at the Ermita Chapel and in several houses. We then were guided by some priests as our Spiritual Directors, namely: Rev. Fr. Arnulfo Ventura (RIP), Rev. Fr. Ramon Villena, who is now the Bishop of Bayombong Diocese and Rev. Fr. Rogelio Cortez.
From 1982, Ofel became my partner in this new style of evangelization, called a Second Pentecost. Together we led a team in the conduct of LSS and Deepening Seminars and continue up to this time to lead the St. Peter’s Charismatic Prayer Group which meets every Tuesday evening. During this time, we were guided by Rev. Fr. Dante de la Cruz, Rev. Fr. Jovencio Masirag, Rt. Rev. Marcelo C. Bassig, P.A., Rev. Fr. Adalbert Barut, and Rev. Fr. Bernard Corpus, who is now our present Spiritual Director.
While deeply involved in this movement, I had a dream. It was about 4:00 0’clock in the morning when I vividly saw in my mind a horse and Someone riding on it. And then I heard a voice telling me: “You are the horse, Christ is the Rider. Go wherever I want you to go.” This dream touched me so much that I woke up and scribbled in a notebook the words I heard. Later on, I saw the significance of this dream when as a Leader of the Charismatic Movement, as the Archdiocesan Catechetical Coordinator and Trainor and as a Chair Couple with Ofel in the PREX Secretariat, I actually went from parish to parish driving a “Toyota Tamaraw” vehicle, to bring CHRIST to these different places and peoples.
Shortly after that dream, I was inspired to compose a “PERSONAL CREDO”, wording it as follows:
I believe that
God has invested in me life and several talents,
God has given me the privilege to be the manager
of these investments;
Managing these investments means:
making the best use of them,
under the particular circumstances
of my everyday life,
to serve the people I come in contact with,
so as to manifest His Goodness, His Wisdom,
and His Power.
Towards the end of my earthly life,
my performance as a manager
will be evaluated by the rate of return
of God’s investments in me.
I pray and expect
a high rate of return of God’s investments in me,
relying not on my limited capabilities,
but on the limitless support
of my Sole Proprietor, Savior and Lord
JESUS CHRIST.
4. In the Knights of Columbus – It was at the KC Loreto Council in Sampaloc, Manila, that I was initiated to the First Degree in 1956. After two years, however, together with Mr. Francisco Tantoco, Jr (now a priest with the rank of a domestic prelate) we established a new Council No. 5350 at the Holy Redeemer Redeemer Parish at Sta. Mesa, Quezon City. We named it GOMBURZA Council, in honor of the three priest martyrs, Rev. Frs. Gomez, Burgos, and Zamora. Mr. Tantoco served as the first Grand Knight. I followed suit as the second Grand Knight for two terms. I was blessed by the wholehearted support of our Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Pedro Magugat (RIP) and the very active cooperation of our Deputy Grand Knight, a priest, Rev. Fr. Romeo Pelayo (RIP), and some officers, especially, Mr. Alejandro Judan, Jr. (RIP) and Engr. Jose Hipolito.
Being connected with the KC Headquarters in Manila I oftentimes joined the KC Territorial Deputy, Rev. Fr. George Willmann in visiting KC councils in the Philippines, and also in conducting the Second and Third Degree Exemplification Ceremonies.
Later on, when already residing in Tuguegarao, I got an appointment as a District Deputy for the Vicariate of Tuguegarao. When I reached the age of 70, having been a KC member for more than 25 years, I received from the Supreme Council a Life Honorary Membership Card.
5. In the Holy Name Society (HNS) – Way back in 1977, when I was already
a Dean at SPCT, I joined the Holy Name Society, which was then headed by Atty. Pedro (Didi) Perez, Jr. Under his leadership we went from barangay to barangay in the parish of Tuguegarao conducting Religious Instruction, leading the Holy Rosary Devotion, and oftentimes culminating with the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass whenever our Chaplain, Rev. Msgr. Benjamin Lasam, was available.
Due to multifarious commitments, my participation in the meetings and activities of this Society was adversely affected for quite a long time. Now, however, under the leadership of Atty. Bartolome Baligod and Ex-Judge Cirilo Lasam, I am again gradually being involved in its program of activities.
In this society, I was greatly edified by one of its leaders, Bro. Eliseo Baylon (RIP). The virtues of humility, sincerity, generosity, patience and perseverance were exemplified in an outstanding manner by his words and deeds. When his gasoline station was operating profitably he voluntarily gave a monthly subsidy of P3,000 to the parish of Cordova, Amulung for the Catechetical Ministry of Rev. Fr. John Iringan. Due to some incidents that greatly diminished the income of his business, he was forced to stop the subsidy. Nevertheless, now and then he still managed to share generously thru the Holy Name Society and the PREX Secretariat some sizable amount of donations for the work of evangelization. Bro. Ely passed away last May 15, 2004, but the memory of his exemplary Christian life shall remain in the hearts and minds of his brother Holy Namers and friends.
6. In the Legion of Mary – In 1983, thru the invitation of Evie. my sister-in-law, Ofel and I joined the Annual Recollection of the Legion of Mary. Inspired by that spiritual exercise where Most Rev. Diosdado A. Talamayan was the Retreat Master, we were persuaded to form a new preasidium. Together with Sis. Lucita Casem and Sis. Mary Guzman, “Praesidium Mary, Queen of Peace” was formed. As active legionaries, we met regularly once a week, and being officers we participated in the monthly meetings of the Comitium “Our Lady of Lourdes”. In the year 1987 my wife, Ofel, was elected President of the Comitium and served in this position for six consecutive years.
During her term as Comitium President, I joined her in visiting praesidia, helped her in organizing annual Lenten recollections for legionaries, in preparing programs for Christmas reunions and the Acies. As a praesidium we also held the usual legion functions of outings and fellowship gatherings.
There was a time when I was elected Vice President of the Comitium. I served, however, for only a few months in this capacity, because of the many responsibilities that I had to attend to as Archdiocesan Catechetical Coordinator and Trainor which oftentimes had overlapping schedules with the Comitium meetings. I continued, however, to remain an active member of our Praesidium until the year 2002. Again due to conflicts in schedule with my work as a member of the Board of Directors of the SPU Multi-Purpose Cooperative, I had to ask to be just an auxiliary member.
As a Legionary, I had the privilege of encountering a saintly lady, Miss Eufemia Durian. She was the President of the Comitium when we joined the Legion. I was impressed by her humility and wholehearted dedication to her duties and responsibilities.
7. In the Parish Renewal Experience (PREX) Seminar - Ofel and I were among the graduates of the First PREX Seminar that was conducted in the Parish of Sts. Peter & Paul, Tuguegarao on Jan. 14-16, 1994 by a team from the Parish of the Good Shepherd, Fairview, Quezon City, headed by Rev. Msgr. Fidelis Limcaco and their Chair Couple, Kuya Rene and Ate Imelda Isidoro. Among those who assisted in this seminar and became very close friends of ours were: Kuya Guillermo A. Pecache (a retired Army General), his wife, Ate Fe Pecache, and Ate Lynnda Dilan. On several occasions we were the recipients of their hospitality. From Ate Lynnda I received a Crucifix from Rome and on my 75th birthday last year I decided to wear this cross with a necklace around my neck as an act of faith in the Reality of Our Savior Jesus Christ, and thus make amends for the time in my past life when I did not like to think or talk about Him to the extent of not going to Mass anymore, and to almost committing suicide were it not for the miracle of grace poured on me when I participated in the Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS) at SPCT on January 31, 1977.
Ofel and I were appointed by our then Parish Priest, Rev. Msgr. Marcelo C. Bassig, to serve as the PREX Chair Couple in the parish. The responsibility which is still on our shoulders up to now is to oversee and keep on going the conduct of PREX Seminars in our parish and in other parishes. After undergoing a “Trainors’ Training” at the Good Shepherd Parish, we were commissioned to conduct PREX Seminars and also Seminar Workshops for PREX Administrators and Speakers. As of this writing we have already conducted 104 PREX Classes in the parish of Tuguegarao and assisted in conducting about 170 PREX Classes in fourteen other parishes. At the 7th PREX National Convention in Baguio City on January 4-6, 2002, we were recognized as the Parish with the most number of Outreaches.
Through the PREX Seminar, God gave to Ofel and me “Mga Kuya & Ate” in Christ, who became very close to us. Deep in our hearts we do love each and everyone of them, and we shall forever treasure their love and memories. To list all their names would require a whole book. There are some, however, who stand out in generously sharing their time, talents and treasure and thus deserve a special mention.
In our outreaches, we owe a lot to Kuya Larry & Ate Nene de Leon, Kuya Roland and Ate Bless Diwa, Kuya Kiriks and Ate Nitz Capiral, Kuya Oca and Ate Tess Gannaban for providing us with transportation facilities. Likewise, we are very grateful to Ate Letty Doctolero for providing basic necessities, to Kuya Jimmy and Ate Conie de Austria for their culinary services, and to Ate Mely Molina and Ate Delia Juan for the documentation.
For PREX seminars in the parish, we have been blessed with the support of countless brothers and sisters in Christ, who consistently offer their time, talents and treasures and whatever capacity that is asked of them.. Outstanding among them are: Kuya Rudy & Ate Jean Amistad, Ate Upeng Bacuyag, Kuya Tino and Ate Linda Castillo, Kuya Charlie Adducul, Ate Puritz Licas, Ate Alice Taguba, Ate Epy Decena, Ate Santing Ferrer, Ate Esleen Marasigan, Ate Flor Caculitan, Ate Cora & Ate Jez Hipolito, Ate Pearlie Mahor, Ate Lynne Sarrail, Kuya Pete and Ate Erma Bariuan, Kuya Jun and Ate Marizon Bariuan, Kuya Vic and Ate Julie Balao, Kuya Tom and Ate Cionie de los Santos, Kuya Ed Liquigan, Kuya Larry and Ate Gigi Baculi, Kuya Abet and Ate May Coballes, Kuya Teddy and Ate Ging Lasam, Kuya Norie and Ate Fely Diaz, Kuya Bart Baligod, Kuya Ciring Lasam, Kuya Aris Salimpade, Kuya Henry Soriano, Kuya Jack Bunagan, Ate Tina Quintero, Ate Din Macutay, Ate Litz Piñera, Ate Gene Rios, Ate Beng Salamero, Kuya Pete Tumaliuan, Kuya Jimmy Amarles, Kuya Mar Talang. Kuya Archie Abreu, Kuya Roy and Ate Len Articulo, Kuya Perry Maguigad, Kuya Jerry Coballes, Kuya Efren Matammu, Kuya Tony Mallillin, Ate Flor Conel, Ate Grace Beran, Ate Grace Baquiran, Kuya Nilo and Ate Ne Aquino, Ate Myrna Pablo, Ate Ritz Caronan, Kuya Angeling and Ate Jean Savellano, Kuya Gerry Cirilo, Kuya Mar and Ate Letty Alariao, Ate Ming Ligutan, Ate Kathy Dayag, Ate Lorna Pagalilauan, Kuya Alvin Jayme and Kuya Tim Gayagoy.
Special mention is also due to the Speakers in the different PREX TALKS, namely, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Marcelo C. Bassig, P.A. our former Parish Priest, Msgr. Rodolfo F. Beltran, our present Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Baculi, Rev. Fr. Domingo Langcay, Kuya Amoy Bautista, Ate Upeng Bacuyag, Ate Shirley Baylon, Kuya Douglas Soriano, Ate Jean Amistad, Kuya Rudy Amistad, Ate Violy Santos, Ate Letty Doctolero, Ate Evelyn Quimosing, Kuya Pepe and Ate Baby Erestain, Jr. and Ate Ofel Cagurangan.
Also worth mentioning is a PREX graduate, Kuya Alex Cipriano, who after being inspired by the PREX seminar, entered the seminary and was ordained a priest last April 16, 2004.
8. In the Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao - Rev. Fr. Ricardo L. Baccay and I have been serving since 1988 as Archdiocesan Catechetical Director and Archdiocesan Catechetical Coordinator-Trainor respectively. The training I got for four summers at the Formation Institute for Religion Educators (FIRE) in Ateneo de Manila University prepared me for this great task. Rev. Fr. Joseph Roche, SJ, the Director of FIRE, has, indeed, enhanced my capability to serve in the Catechetical Ministry. After having decided to retire from St. Paul University at the age of 60, I presented myself to our Archbishop, Most Rev. Diosdado A. Talamayan, to help in the task of evangelization. He readily welcomed me and commissioned me to assist Rev. Fr. Ric Baccay in the Catechetical Ministry. Putting our minds and hearts together in this challenging task, we visited all the parishes in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, in order to assess the actual catechetical situation. Seeing the lack of an organizational set-up, the dearth of catechetical materials, and the inadequate training of a great majority of the catechists, we formulated a five-summer- training program and presented it to the Archbishop for funding. Fortunately a certain foundation in Germany gave its financial support to this program on a yearly basis. As an output of this training program we were able to:
a. organize the catechists on the vicarial level, letting them choose annually their Vicarial Officers;
b. prepare lesson plans for Catechesis in Public Schools covering all the different grades in the Elementary and Secondary levels; and
c. set up a program for a continuing regular quarterly recollection, fellowship and business meeting.
The ready-made lesson plans were later on printed in book-form and given to the catechists as guide for a systematic catechetical teaching. While they were meant originally for use in our Archdiocese, other Dioceses recognizing their value as teaching materials have purchased at cost quite a number of copies for their catechetical ministry.
In our desire to uplift the plight of our catechists, who receive a very meager remuneration, we instituted a scheme of funding that would provide an SSS and Philhealth coverage to all paid catechists who meet certain requirements. As of today, there are about 90 catechists who are enjoying these fringe benefits. Several of them have already availed of the benefits offered by the said institutions, such as salary loans and sickness, maternity, death, and retirement benefits.
Last October 14-15, 2003, the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, thru the coordinating efforts of the Archdiocesan Catechetical Staff, composed of Rev. Fr. Ric Baccay, our Archdiocesan Catechetical Director, Miss Ayleen Pagalilauan, our Secretary, and myself, hosted the Second Northern Luzon Regional Catechetical Council Congress. The theme of the Congress was: “Catechists – Towards a Participatory Church”. Our Resource Speaker was the Most Rev. Francisco Claver, Bishop of Bontoc-Lagawe. About a thousand delegates coming from 14 Dioceses, composed of priests, religious sisters, and lay catechists participated in this Congress. While the main venue was at the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat, where Rev. Msgr. Gerard Ariston Perez is the Parish Priest and at the same the Vicar Forane, all the nine parishes in the Vicariate of Itawes played hosts and gave an example of a Participatory Church through a BEC (Basic Ecclesial Community) Experience Exposure in their respective parishes. The Congress is considered as the biggest one, so far, in terms of number of delegates, in the life of the Church in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. In the holding of this Congress we owe a big debt of gratitude to the Officers of the Northern Luzon Regional Catechetical Council (NLRCC) particularly to: Most Rev. Artemio L. Rillera, SVD, DD, the Bishop Chairman, Rev. Fr. Floro B. Bautista, the Executive Secretary, and Sr. Mary Augustine C. Cuenco, OSB, the Secretary. Without their full support the Congress would not have materialized.
Rev. Fr. Ric Baccay is, indeed, a man with a vision and has the knack of knowing how to tap the resources and talents of people towards the attainment of his objectives. When we assumed the responsibility of taking charge of the Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry we worked together hand in hand towards the attainment of a One Hundred Percent Catechetical Coverage of all Public Elementary and Secondary Schools in our Archdiocese. In school year 1987-88, before we assumed office, the catechetical coverage of Public Schools in the Archdiocese was 35.67%. Last school year 2003-04, the catechetical coverage has reached 69.53%, an increase of 33.56%, or percentage wise, an increase of 94.93%.
As of this writing there are 13 out of the 40 parishes in the Archdiocese that will be awarded a Certificate of Recognition for having accomplished a One Hundred Percent Catechetical Coverage of Public Schools in their respective jurisdictions during a certain school year. They are as follows: Pamplona, Namuac, Abulug, Faire, San Gabriel, Naruangan, Sta. Teresita, Tuao, Cordova, Cataggaman, Mauanan, Claveria and Dana-ili. This means 32.50% or almost one third of the parishes in the Archdiocese have already attained the 100% Catechetical Coverage.
Our vision is, indeed, a challenging one – an uphill endeavor that requires a lot of perseverance, sacrifices and resourcefulness. But with God’s grace we are steadily moving towards our desired goal.
In the Catechetical Ministry we are blessed with the guidance and assistance of the Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (ECCCE). For the past 25 years this Commission was chaired by one of the most outstanding Prelates in the Philippines, Most Rev. Leonardo Z. Legaspi, OP, DD, Archbishop of Naga. This year (2004) the Chairmanship was turned over to a young, humble, but very dynamic and knowledgeable Bishop in the person of Most Rev. Socrates C. Villegas, DD . Through “DOCETE”, a Quarterly Catechetical Review, the ECCCE has provided us with Articles of great value in the task of evangelization.
9. In the Council of the Laity of the Philippines (CLP) – the privilege was given to me to serve as Vice President for Luzon for two terms, being a delegate of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao in my capacity as President of the Archdiocesan Council of the Laity. While serving in this National Office of the Laity, God has blessed me with living examples of holiness and unselfish dedication to the task of evangelization, particularly in the persons of the National CLP Heads, namely: Ambassador Henrietta T. de Villa, Antonio B. de los Santos, and Sonia Saldivar-Ronda.
10. In the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines (PCP II) – I also had the
privilege to represent the laity in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, being the incumbent President of the Archdiocesan Council of the Laity. This was a two months live-in Conference of all Bishops in the Philippines together with about four hundred delegates consisting of priests, religious sisters and brothers, laymen and laywomen from all dioceses, religious congregations and some Catholic Schools and Seminaries. San Carlos Seminary at Guadalupe, Makati, served as the venue for this Council, which is considered, so far, to be the greatest event in the history of the Church in the Philippines. In the discussions and in the process of formulating the Acts and Decrees of the Council God has given me the grace to participate actively, so much so that, without my knowing it, I was considered as among the Ten Most Outstanding Laymen of the Council.
11. In the Tuguegarao Parish Pastoral Council (TPPC) - As of this writing I am serving as the Executive Vice President of TPPC, having been appointed as such by our parish priest, Rev. Msgr. Rodolfo F. Beltran. Since the thrust of the Church today in the Philippines is the building of Basic Ecclesial Communities, which in essence means to be a “Participatory Church”, we have framed a Constitution and By-laws and organized ourselves towards the Vision of becoming a Community of Disciples with a preferential option for the Poor. To achieve this Vision we have committed ourselves to embark on a Renewed Integral Evangelization, by becoming a witnessing, evangelizing and sharing community, guided by the Acts and Decrees of the First Archdiocesan Pastoral Assembly (FAPA) of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, and further enlightened by the Acts and Decrees of PCP II.
Recently, this Council has played a significant role in the Quadricentennial Celebration of the Arrival of the Image of Our Lady of Piat in Cagayan and the Golden Jubilee of Her Canonical Coronation in June 21, 2004. Towards the implementation of several lined-up activities, the concerted efforts and cooperation of all the officers and members of this Council were mobilized. Despite inevitable shortcomings in the implementation, the celebration was considered a great success. All who participated in this grand celebration, who came from different places in the country as well as from abroad, did receive a special blessing from the Lord through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary.
As a consultative body, decisions of this council are still subject to the final approval of the Parish Priest, who is at the same time the President of the Council. However, the involvement of the parishioners in the church activities can be attributed to a large extent to the active support and cooperation of the Council Officers and members to the parish pastoral program. Since participation in the activities of the Parish Council is on a voluntary basis, there is a need for Christ-centered committed lay people to make it truly functional as a coordinating body of all the different religious organizations, movements, barangay pastoral councils, offices and schools who fall under its umbrella of membership and jurisdiction. I thank God that with all the spiritual inputs I have received thru retreats, seminars, conferences and the like, I have been given the grace to surrender myself entirely to God’s Holy Will and to say like St. Paul: “It is no longer I that live, but Christ Who lives in me.” (Gal. 2:20) I am still like any mortal man, with human imperfections and subject to sinful inclinations, but deep in my heart is a strong resolve to struggle against all obstacles that may hinder me from becoming what God wants me to be: A SAINT. For I do believe that this is the vocation of every human being – TO BE A SAINT – which, in other words, means to be truly united with God in love as His child and an heir in His eternal Kingdom. This is man’s destiny – the reason for his existence – as St. Augustine of Hippo, the great Doctor of the Church, has said: “ Man is created for God, and his heart is restless until it rests in God”.
1.In the CURSILLO - a short course in Christianity, I was involved in giving talks, and even in serving as Rector several times. A co-seminarian and at that time (1968-1971) a parish priest in Urdaneta, Pangasinan, Rev. Fr. Elpidio Sison, became a close friend of mine and through him I immediately gained the trust and confidence of the lay church leaders in the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan.
2.In the Christian Family Movement, I was chosen together with my wife, Pilar, as the CFM Regional Director in the province of Pangasinan. With our own example as a CFM unit in the parish of Urdaneta, we spread this movement to several parishes in the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan.
3.In the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement – Pilar and I were among those who participated in the First Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS) that was conducted in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. That was in January 31 – February 2, 1977 at the Social Hall of St. Paul College of Tuguegarao. Coming out spiritually renewed from that seminar, we spearheaded the holding of LSS in the different parishes of the Archdiocese, and conducted Prayer Meetings at the Ermita Chapel and in several houses. We then were guided by some priests as our Spiritual Directors, namely: Rev. Fr. Arnulfo Ventura (RIP), Rev. Fr. Ramon Villena, who is now the Bishop of Bayombong Diocese and Rev. Fr. Rogelio Cortez.
From 1982, Ofel became my partner in this new style of evangelization, called a Second Pentecost. Together we led a team in the conduct of LSS and Deepening Seminars and continue up to this time to lead the St. Peter’s Charismatic Prayer Group which meets every Tuesday evening. During this time, we were guided by Rev. Fr. Dante de la Cruz, Rev. Fr. Jovencio Masirag, Rt. Rev. Marcelo C. Bassig, P.A., Rev. Fr. Adalbert Barut, and Rev. Fr. Bernard Corpus, who is now our present Spiritual Director.
While deeply involved in this movement, I had a dream. It was about 4:00 0’clock in the morning when I vividly saw in my mind a horse and Someone riding on it. And then I heard a voice telling me: “You are the horse, Christ is the Rider. Go wherever I want you to go.” This dream touched me so much that I woke up and scribbled in a notebook the words I heard. Later on, I saw the significance of this dream when as a Leader of the Charismatic Movement, as the Archdiocesan Catechetical Coordinator and Trainor and as a Chair Couple with Ofel in the PREX Secretariat, I actually went from parish to parish driving a “Toyota Tamaraw” vehicle, to bring CHRIST to these different places and peoples.
Shortly after that dream, I was inspired to compose a “PERSONAL CREDO”, wording it as follows:
I believe that
God has invested in me life and several talents,
God has given me the privilege to be the manager
of these investments;
Managing these investments means:
making the best use of them,
under the particular circumstances
of my everyday life,
to serve the people I come in contact with,
so as to manifest His Goodness, His Wisdom,
and His Power.
Towards the end of my earthly life,
my performance as a manager
will be evaluated by the rate of return
of God’s investments in me.
I pray and expect
a high rate of return of God’s investments in me,
relying not on my limited capabilities,
but on the limitless support
of my Sole Proprietor, Savior and Lord
JESUS CHRIST.
4. In the Knights of Columbus – It was at the KC Loreto Council in Sampaloc, Manila, that I was initiated to the First Degree in 1956. After two years, however, together with Mr. Francisco Tantoco, Jr (now a priest with the rank of a domestic prelate) we established a new Council No. 5350 at the Holy Redeemer Redeemer Parish at Sta. Mesa, Quezon City. We named it GOMBURZA Council, in honor of the three priest martyrs, Rev. Frs. Gomez, Burgos, and Zamora. Mr. Tantoco served as the first Grand Knight. I followed suit as the second Grand Knight for two terms. I was blessed by the wholehearted support of our Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Pedro Magugat (RIP) and the very active cooperation of our Deputy Grand Knight, a priest, Rev. Fr. Romeo Pelayo (RIP), and some officers, especially, Mr. Alejandro Judan, Jr. (RIP) and Engr. Jose Hipolito.
Being connected with the KC Headquarters in Manila I oftentimes joined the KC Territorial Deputy, Rev. Fr. George Willmann in visiting KC councils in the Philippines, and also in conducting the Second and Third Degree Exemplification Ceremonies.
Later on, when already residing in Tuguegarao, I got an appointment as a District Deputy for the Vicariate of Tuguegarao. When I reached the age of 70, having been a KC member for more than 25 years, I received from the Supreme Council a Life Honorary Membership Card.
5. In the Holy Name Society (HNS) – Way back in 1977, when I was already
a Dean at SPCT, I joined the Holy Name Society, which was then headed by Atty. Pedro (Didi) Perez, Jr. Under his leadership we went from barangay to barangay in the parish of Tuguegarao conducting Religious Instruction, leading the Holy Rosary Devotion, and oftentimes culminating with the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass whenever our Chaplain, Rev. Msgr. Benjamin Lasam, was available.
Due to multifarious commitments, my participation in the meetings and activities of this Society was adversely affected for quite a long time. Now, however, under the leadership of Atty. Bartolome Baligod and Ex-Judge Cirilo Lasam, I am again gradually being involved in its program of activities.
In this society, I was greatly edified by one of its leaders, Bro. Eliseo Baylon (RIP). The virtues of humility, sincerity, generosity, patience and perseverance were exemplified in an outstanding manner by his words and deeds. When his gasoline station was operating profitably he voluntarily gave a monthly subsidy of P3,000 to the parish of Cordova, Amulung for the Catechetical Ministry of Rev. Fr. John Iringan. Due to some incidents that greatly diminished the income of his business, he was forced to stop the subsidy. Nevertheless, now and then he still managed to share generously thru the Holy Name Society and the PREX Secretariat some sizable amount of donations for the work of evangelization. Bro. Ely passed away last May 15, 2004, but the memory of his exemplary Christian life shall remain in the hearts and minds of his brother Holy Namers and friends.
6. In the Legion of Mary – In 1983, thru the invitation of Evie. my sister-in-law, Ofel and I joined the Annual Recollection of the Legion of Mary. Inspired by that spiritual exercise where Most Rev. Diosdado A. Talamayan was the Retreat Master, we were persuaded to form a new preasidium. Together with Sis. Lucita Casem and Sis. Mary Guzman, “Praesidium Mary, Queen of Peace” was formed. As active legionaries, we met regularly once a week, and being officers we participated in the monthly meetings of the Comitium “Our Lady of Lourdes”. In the year 1987 my wife, Ofel, was elected President of the Comitium and served in this position for six consecutive years.
During her term as Comitium President, I joined her in visiting praesidia, helped her in organizing annual Lenten recollections for legionaries, in preparing programs for Christmas reunions and the Acies. As a praesidium we also held the usual legion functions of outings and fellowship gatherings.
There was a time when I was elected Vice President of the Comitium. I served, however, for only a few months in this capacity, because of the many responsibilities that I had to attend to as Archdiocesan Catechetical Coordinator and Trainor which oftentimes had overlapping schedules with the Comitium meetings. I continued, however, to remain an active member of our Praesidium until the year 2002. Again due to conflicts in schedule with my work as a member of the Board of Directors of the SPU Multi-Purpose Cooperative, I had to ask to be just an auxiliary member.
As a Legionary, I had the privilege of encountering a saintly lady, Miss Eufemia Durian. She was the President of the Comitium when we joined the Legion. I was impressed by her humility and wholehearted dedication to her duties and responsibilities.
7. In the Parish Renewal Experience (PREX) Seminar - Ofel and I were among the graduates of the First PREX Seminar that was conducted in the Parish of Sts. Peter & Paul, Tuguegarao on Jan. 14-16, 1994 by a team from the Parish of the Good Shepherd, Fairview, Quezon City, headed by Rev. Msgr. Fidelis Limcaco and their Chair Couple, Kuya Rene and Ate Imelda Isidoro. Among those who assisted in this seminar and became very close friends of ours were: Kuya Guillermo A. Pecache (a retired Army General), his wife, Ate Fe Pecache, and Ate Lynnda Dilan. On several occasions we were the recipients of their hospitality. From Ate Lynnda I received a Crucifix from Rome and on my 75th birthday last year I decided to wear this cross with a necklace around my neck as an act of faith in the Reality of Our Savior Jesus Christ, and thus make amends for the time in my past life when I did not like to think or talk about Him to the extent of not going to Mass anymore, and to almost committing suicide were it not for the miracle of grace poured on me when I participated in the Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS) at SPCT on January 31, 1977.
Ofel and I were appointed by our then Parish Priest, Rev. Msgr. Marcelo C. Bassig, to serve as the PREX Chair Couple in the parish. The responsibility which is still on our shoulders up to now is to oversee and keep on going the conduct of PREX Seminars in our parish and in other parishes. After undergoing a “Trainors’ Training” at the Good Shepherd Parish, we were commissioned to conduct PREX Seminars and also Seminar Workshops for PREX Administrators and Speakers. As of this writing we have already conducted 104 PREX Classes in the parish of Tuguegarao and assisted in conducting about 170 PREX Classes in fourteen other parishes. At the 7th PREX National Convention in Baguio City on January 4-6, 2002, we were recognized as the Parish with the most number of Outreaches.
Through the PREX Seminar, God gave to Ofel and me “Mga Kuya & Ate” in Christ, who became very close to us. Deep in our hearts we do love each and everyone of them, and we shall forever treasure their love and memories. To list all their names would require a whole book. There are some, however, who stand out in generously sharing their time, talents and treasure and thus deserve a special mention.
In our outreaches, we owe a lot to Kuya Larry & Ate Nene de Leon, Kuya Roland and Ate Bless Diwa, Kuya Kiriks and Ate Nitz Capiral, Kuya Oca and Ate Tess Gannaban for providing us with transportation facilities. Likewise, we are very grateful to Ate Letty Doctolero for providing basic necessities, to Kuya Jimmy and Ate Conie de Austria for their culinary services, and to Ate Mely Molina and Ate Delia Juan for the documentation.
For PREX seminars in the parish, we have been blessed with the support of countless brothers and sisters in Christ, who consistently offer their time, talents and treasures and whatever capacity that is asked of them.. Outstanding among them are: Kuya Rudy & Ate Jean Amistad, Ate Upeng Bacuyag, Kuya Tino and Ate Linda Castillo, Kuya Charlie Adducul, Ate Puritz Licas, Ate Alice Taguba, Ate Epy Decena, Ate Santing Ferrer, Ate Esleen Marasigan, Ate Flor Caculitan, Ate Cora & Ate Jez Hipolito, Ate Pearlie Mahor, Ate Lynne Sarrail, Kuya Pete and Ate Erma Bariuan, Kuya Jun and Ate Marizon Bariuan, Kuya Vic and Ate Julie Balao, Kuya Tom and Ate Cionie de los Santos, Kuya Ed Liquigan, Kuya Larry and Ate Gigi Baculi, Kuya Abet and Ate May Coballes, Kuya Teddy and Ate Ging Lasam, Kuya Norie and Ate Fely Diaz, Kuya Bart Baligod, Kuya Ciring Lasam, Kuya Aris Salimpade, Kuya Henry Soriano, Kuya Jack Bunagan, Ate Tina Quintero, Ate Din Macutay, Ate Litz Piñera, Ate Gene Rios, Ate Beng Salamero, Kuya Pete Tumaliuan, Kuya Jimmy Amarles, Kuya Mar Talang. Kuya Archie Abreu, Kuya Roy and Ate Len Articulo, Kuya Perry Maguigad, Kuya Jerry Coballes, Kuya Efren Matammu, Kuya Tony Mallillin, Ate Flor Conel, Ate Grace Beran, Ate Grace Baquiran, Kuya Nilo and Ate Ne Aquino, Ate Myrna Pablo, Ate Ritz Caronan, Kuya Angeling and Ate Jean Savellano, Kuya Gerry Cirilo, Kuya Mar and Ate Letty Alariao, Ate Ming Ligutan, Ate Kathy Dayag, Ate Lorna Pagalilauan, Kuya Alvin Jayme and Kuya Tim Gayagoy.
Special mention is also due to the Speakers in the different PREX TALKS, namely, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Marcelo C. Bassig, P.A. our former Parish Priest, Msgr. Rodolfo F. Beltran, our present Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Baculi, Rev. Fr. Domingo Langcay, Kuya Amoy Bautista, Ate Upeng Bacuyag, Ate Shirley Baylon, Kuya Douglas Soriano, Ate Jean Amistad, Kuya Rudy Amistad, Ate Violy Santos, Ate Letty Doctolero, Ate Evelyn Quimosing, Kuya Pepe and Ate Baby Erestain, Jr. and Ate Ofel Cagurangan.
Also worth mentioning is a PREX graduate, Kuya Alex Cipriano, who after being inspired by the PREX seminar, entered the seminary and was ordained a priest last April 16, 2004.
8. In the Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao - Rev. Fr. Ricardo L. Baccay and I have been serving since 1988 as Archdiocesan Catechetical Director and Archdiocesan Catechetical Coordinator-Trainor respectively. The training I got for four summers at the Formation Institute for Religion Educators (FIRE) in Ateneo de Manila University prepared me for this great task. Rev. Fr. Joseph Roche, SJ, the Director of FIRE, has, indeed, enhanced my capability to serve in the Catechetical Ministry. After having decided to retire from St. Paul University at the age of 60, I presented myself to our Archbishop, Most Rev. Diosdado A. Talamayan, to help in the task of evangelization. He readily welcomed me and commissioned me to assist Rev. Fr. Ric Baccay in the Catechetical Ministry. Putting our minds and hearts together in this challenging task, we visited all the parishes in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, in order to assess the actual catechetical situation. Seeing the lack of an organizational set-up, the dearth of catechetical materials, and the inadequate training of a great majority of the catechists, we formulated a five-summer- training program and presented it to the Archbishop for funding. Fortunately a certain foundation in Germany gave its financial support to this program on a yearly basis. As an output of this training program we were able to:
a. organize the catechists on the vicarial level, letting them choose annually their Vicarial Officers;
b. prepare lesson plans for Catechesis in Public Schools covering all the different grades in the Elementary and Secondary levels; and
c. set up a program for a continuing regular quarterly recollection, fellowship and business meeting.
The ready-made lesson plans were later on printed in book-form and given to the catechists as guide for a systematic catechetical teaching. While they were meant originally for use in our Archdiocese, other Dioceses recognizing their value as teaching materials have purchased at cost quite a number of copies for their catechetical ministry.
In our desire to uplift the plight of our catechists, who receive a very meager remuneration, we instituted a scheme of funding that would provide an SSS and Philhealth coverage to all paid catechists who meet certain requirements. As of today, there are about 90 catechists who are enjoying these fringe benefits. Several of them have already availed of the benefits offered by the said institutions, such as salary loans and sickness, maternity, death, and retirement benefits.
Last October 14-15, 2003, the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, thru the coordinating efforts of the Archdiocesan Catechetical Staff, composed of Rev. Fr. Ric Baccay, our Archdiocesan Catechetical Director, Miss Ayleen Pagalilauan, our Secretary, and myself, hosted the Second Northern Luzon Regional Catechetical Council Congress. The theme of the Congress was: “Catechists – Towards a Participatory Church”. Our Resource Speaker was the Most Rev. Francisco Claver, Bishop of Bontoc-Lagawe. About a thousand delegates coming from 14 Dioceses, composed of priests, religious sisters, and lay catechists participated in this Congress. While the main venue was at the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat, where Rev. Msgr. Gerard Ariston Perez is the Parish Priest and at the same the Vicar Forane, all the nine parishes in the Vicariate of Itawes played hosts and gave an example of a Participatory Church through a BEC (Basic Ecclesial Community) Experience Exposure in their respective parishes. The Congress is considered as the biggest one, so far, in terms of number of delegates, in the life of the Church in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. In the holding of this Congress we owe a big debt of gratitude to the Officers of the Northern Luzon Regional Catechetical Council (NLRCC) particularly to: Most Rev. Artemio L. Rillera, SVD, DD, the Bishop Chairman, Rev. Fr. Floro B. Bautista, the Executive Secretary, and Sr. Mary Augustine C. Cuenco, OSB, the Secretary. Without their full support the Congress would not have materialized.
Rev. Fr. Ric Baccay is, indeed, a man with a vision and has the knack of knowing how to tap the resources and talents of people towards the attainment of his objectives. When we assumed the responsibility of taking charge of the Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry we worked together hand in hand towards the attainment of a One Hundred Percent Catechetical Coverage of all Public Elementary and Secondary Schools in our Archdiocese. In school year 1987-88, before we assumed office, the catechetical coverage of Public Schools in the Archdiocese was 35.67%. Last school year 2003-04, the catechetical coverage has reached 69.53%, an increase of 33.56%, or percentage wise, an increase of 94.93%.
As of this writing there are 13 out of the 40 parishes in the Archdiocese that will be awarded a Certificate of Recognition for having accomplished a One Hundred Percent Catechetical Coverage of Public Schools in their respective jurisdictions during a certain school year. They are as follows: Pamplona, Namuac, Abulug, Faire, San Gabriel, Naruangan, Sta. Teresita, Tuao, Cordova, Cataggaman, Mauanan, Claveria and Dana-ili. This means 32.50% or almost one third of the parishes in the Archdiocese have already attained the 100% Catechetical Coverage.
Our vision is, indeed, a challenging one – an uphill endeavor that requires a lot of perseverance, sacrifices and resourcefulness. But with God’s grace we are steadily moving towards our desired goal.
In the Catechetical Ministry we are blessed with the guidance and assistance of the Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (ECCCE). For the past 25 years this Commission was chaired by one of the most outstanding Prelates in the Philippines, Most Rev. Leonardo Z. Legaspi, OP, DD, Archbishop of Naga. This year (2004) the Chairmanship was turned over to a young, humble, but very dynamic and knowledgeable Bishop in the person of Most Rev. Socrates C. Villegas, DD . Through “DOCETE”, a Quarterly Catechetical Review, the ECCCE has provided us with Articles of great value in the task of evangelization.
9. In the Council of the Laity of the Philippines (CLP) – the privilege was given to me to serve as Vice President for Luzon for two terms, being a delegate of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao in my capacity as President of the Archdiocesan Council of the Laity. While serving in this National Office of the Laity, God has blessed me with living examples of holiness and unselfish dedication to the task of evangelization, particularly in the persons of the National CLP Heads, namely: Ambassador Henrietta T. de Villa, Antonio B. de los Santos, and Sonia Saldivar-Ronda.
10. In the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines (PCP II) – I also had the
privilege to represent the laity in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, being the incumbent President of the Archdiocesan Council of the Laity. This was a two months live-in Conference of all Bishops in the Philippines together with about four hundred delegates consisting of priests, religious sisters and brothers, laymen and laywomen from all dioceses, religious congregations and some Catholic Schools and Seminaries. San Carlos Seminary at Guadalupe, Makati, served as the venue for this Council, which is considered, so far, to be the greatest event in the history of the Church in the Philippines. In the discussions and in the process of formulating the Acts and Decrees of the Council God has given me the grace to participate actively, so much so that, without my knowing it, I was considered as among the Ten Most Outstanding Laymen of the Council.
11. In the Tuguegarao Parish Pastoral Council (TPPC) - As of this writing I am serving as the Executive Vice President of TPPC, having been appointed as such by our parish priest, Rev. Msgr. Rodolfo F. Beltran. Since the thrust of the Church today in the Philippines is the building of Basic Ecclesial Communities, which in essence means to be a “Participatory Church”, we have framed a Constitution and By-laws and organized ourselves towards the Vision of becoming a Community of Disciples with a preferential option for the Poor. To achieve this Vision we have committed ourselves to embark on a Renewed Integral Evangelization, by becoming a witnessing, evangelizing and sharing community, guided by the Acts and Decrees of the First Archdiocesan Pastoral Assembly (FAPA) of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, and further enlightened by the Acts and Decrees of PCP II.
Recently, this Council has played a significant role in the Quadricentennial Celebration of the Arrival of the Image of Our Lady of Piat in Cagayan and the Golden Jubilee of Her Canonical Coronation in June 21, 2004. Towards the implementation of several lined-up activities, the concerted efforts and cooperation of all the officers and members of this Council were mobilized. Despite inevitable shortcomings in the implementation, the celebration was considered a great success. All who participated in this grand celebration, who came from different places in the country as well as from abroad, did receive a special blessing from the Lord through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary.
As a consultative body, decisions of this council are still subject to the final approval of the Parish Priest, who is at the same time the President of the Council. However, the involvement of the parishioners in the church activities can be attributed to a large extent to the active support and cooperation of the Council Officers and members to the parish pastoral program. Since participation in the activities of the Parish Council is on a voluntary basis, there is a need for Christ-centered committed lay people to make it truly functional as a coordinating body of all the different religious organizations, movements, barangay pastoral councils, offices and schools who fall under its umbrella of membership and jurisdiction. I thank God that with all the spiritual inputs I have received thru retreats, seminars, conferences and the like, I have been given the grace to surrender myself entirely to God’s Holy Will and to say like St. Paul: “It is no longer I that live, but Christ Who lives in me.” (Gal. 2:20) I am still like any mortal man, with human imperfections and subject to sinful inclinations, but deep in my heart is a strong resolve to struggle against all obstacles that may hinder me from becoming what God wants me to be: A SAINT. For I do believe that this is the vocation of every human being – TO BE A SAINT – which, in other words, means to be truly united with God in love as His child and an heir in His eternal Kingdom. This is man’s destiny – the reason for his existence – as St. Augustine of Hippo, the great Doctor of the Church, has said: “ Man is created for God, and his heart is restless until it rests in God”.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
