This was my last view of this little Christmas tree since I left Albay almost three weeks ago.
I’ve been carrying the recent memories of the province in myself - the laughter of the little kids, the pain and joys of rural life, and those people who touched my life. Of course, who would forget the beautiful local sceneries where I used to sprawl around?
As I take another step away from home gaining new perspectives, I will just fill my heart with hopes, optimism, and dedication on this whole new course (disregarding the city’s polluted air and brutal heat).
Whatever or whoever comes along, I would keep coming back for you, my home Albay. See you this December.
Advance Merry Christmas to all!
Zero visibility during the approach of Typhoon Reming. My family was blessed that we have a stronger house foundation located a couple of hundred away from the Basud-San Roque river.
Maximum velocity: 265kph
Philippine death toll: 720 or above (more than 300 from Bicol)
Damages: P3 billions
1. Beautifully preserved Cagsawa Ruins in Daraga withstood the strong wind velocity; 2. Ravage of typhoon ruined the well-known Cagsawa 1814 bar and restaurant near the ruins; 3. Devastated stalls selling local products near the ruins; 4. On the way to the ruins, rescuers tried to uncover possible buried bodies
5. Soccer field of Aquinas University; 6. Ginormous Boulders rolled over Brgy. Padang burying the victims; 7. Ruined dike at San Jose of Malilipot; 8. Destroyed households and livestock company building in Brgy Culliat, Daraga, Albay
9. Stripped cockpit arena in Tabaco City; 10. Blown off school roofs and cemented fence; 11. Blocked Padang-Bigaa-Arimbay road with gravel and sand; 12. Ricefield was totally covered with boulders and sand in Sto. Domingo
13. Mostly tree branches and twigs were left on the hill and its vicinity; 14. Wrecked and covered Lidong Bridge in Legazpi City; 15. Dikes were zapped in at Brgy Basud, Tabaco City; 16. We’re not in Divisoria, but in Serra Subdivision in Tabaco City
17. Whacked up doorknob at our house; 18. Finding your own way in Bacacay; 19. Strong blow of the wind caused this bus to lose control in Pawa, Tabaco City; 20. Poor dead eel in Sto. Domingo, Albay
Thousands of small spring channels – that’s what comes to my mind when I think of Malisson Spring Resort. The place will suffice your tired body with two pools of clear water.
The haven also provides you with cool activities where one can find an ample time to relax and enjoy mountains and lake view (e.g. Kawakawa Hill). To have a taste of nature, you can catch your own fresh, organic-fed tilapia through boating and fishing. Videoke machine is there to entertain dippers and tourists who would find singing a sort of relief. The resort with function hall, and open and close cottages can accomodate different occasions from simple children’s party to wedding reception.
It would be luckier than you can think of if you happen to be there during late afternoons of Fridays and Saturdays. The resort’s owner has local bands that would give sounds to calm your nerves from the stressful weekdays.
Have your quick escape into Malisson Spring Resort in Ligao City that would give a new perspective about nature.
Entrance: P40-P45
Getting at the resort: 3-kilometer ride though a well-paved road from Ligao City center; or 30-minute drive from Legazpi City
Kiddie Pool
Go boat and fish on a wide lake
Picturesque nature resort
Spoil your time singing in its bar and restaurant
Spiky decided to be in city cemetery late in the evening on November 1 just before midnight. During that time, mass was already done, most people left for their homes, and kids started to collate many candle waxes as they can. I then joined my relatives and friends for quick and short conversations, and of course, to offer sympathy. After that, Spiky had the chance to roam around a bit with my friends.
Candles in the dark made someone embrace their Undas (All Souls’ Day) moments.
Brighter lights in Cemetery. Definitely, there won’t be any momo (ghost) coming out.
Unique display of reminiscing love ones. I have never seen this before of my entire life, not until this Undas.
For my dearest Mama, I still miss you. I undoubtedly really miss you. Don’t worry about us, we’re ok here. Hugs and kisses.
For my lola, I hope you are in peace and harmony with God. I hope you are feeling happy especially together with your daughter. I miss you also.
For my friend Ace, I wish I have heard what happened to you a bit earlier. So long dude and ‘til our next jamming.
For Ondoy-Pepeng-Santi victims, I hope all of you heal inside and out, and live on in the hands of God.
My prayers for all of you this Undas and beyond.
Few days after the horrific rage of Typhoon Reming that struck Bicolandia in November 2006, stories of paranormal activities about buried victims in barrio Padang in Legazpi City had flourished at nearby places. Many feared to pass through the area as ghosts may show up waving at them, and unexplainable human forms riding at the back of their seats may be experienced by the motorists. Local residents were also haunted by these rumored sightings.
On a cold, dark night, a saleslady who just went out from her work was going home in Padang. The path several meters leading to her home was partially passable due to volcanic soil and rock deposits.
She was walking alone with no lit posts on the sidewalk until she saw an unclear white image. She began to quiver pondering that it would be a ghost. She profusely perspired but it kept moving towards her.
She cried and screamed so loudly and helplessly, “May multo, may multo!” (Ghost, Ghost!).
Thinking that she will die in the hands of a ghost, she then screamed louder, and her eyes grew bigger. No one was there to save that poor girl from predicament but herself.Then the ‘ghost’ went nearer and nearer until it spoke.
“Hoy nene, tanod ako.” (Hey lady, I’m a village patroller.) [Bwahahahahahaha x4]
How odd but she was thankfully spared from her death. “Hay, si tiyo man, nata man nakaputi ka?” (Sir, how could you? Why are you wearing white?), she asked while wiping her tears. She was then escorted by that guy to her home safely.
In this gloomy, dreadful place without enough light, all you have to do is to bring a flashlight with you (plus a lot of prayers) to counter your wild imagination.
Happy Halloween to everyone.
Peek-a-boo!
I happened to bump into Roca Monte Resort just last month without any plan as I was going to prove if there’s a horseback ride in Ligao City. Hesitant to enter, I was welcomed with a smile from a caretaker, and then I smiled back.
The resort is more than a 100-year old with dilapidated buildings, swimming pool and amusement park for kids. Locals and tourists used to travel frequently to witness the beautiful place splendidly built in parts of Albay.
In November 1987, the landfall of super typhoon Sisang (Nina) ransacked the expanse of Roca Monte. Buildings were destroyed and the river passing thru the area flooded the whole resort. It was tremendously damaged that it had to be closed down.
In case you are wondering, recovering this jewel of Albay may be possible. You have to buy the wide spot (? hectares) for millions first. The pioneer of the place, Mr. Roca Monte, who moved to USA with his family died several years ago. However, his daughter is the new owner who plans to sell the property.
Even though the place has been stripped its beauty value 22 years ago, the place has something to offer for the tourists and passers by – the amusement park and few structures can still make you say “Wow!”
Sculpture of Roca Monte installed near the road of Tabaco-Ligao route
Sad yet appealing view from the entrance area
Gift with flower design from the late Pres. Ferdinand Marcos
Elephant with a chair saddle
Dragon slide (partial view) and dwarves near the castle
Ruined Hotel
Giant mouse holding a dagger
Another destroyed building with paintings on the floor
Boy on his hands and the pumpkin-like house
Virgin Mary with farm animals by the riverside
T-rex statue
Unserviceable swimming pool
Two-story structure made of volcanic rocks from Mayon Volcano
I thought I will grow old without having this similar and worthwhile experience again.
On October 14, 2009, it was rainy and the water was high in danaw (lake) of Brgy. Tagaytay in Camalig, Albay. Without having second thought, I immediately said “Yes!”.
Then I changed clothes.
First step, I felt the coldness of brown-colored water and the mud of the lake.
Several steps, my friend got one.
I cheered, “Igwa akong duwang bibe digdi.” “I got two bibe (freshwater mussel) here.”
After an hour of series of stepping deeper into the mud, we’re not contented of what we had in the yellow sack.
I kept on observing.
Then I used my hands while submerging into the water in reaching the base. I got more.
My other friend came to help us. Then we got more.
We’re done. Then I shivered and clicked still appreciating Mayon from the distance even it was partially blocked by the clouds and Mt. Santa Cruzan.
At my dearest friend’s home, we scraped the meat out from the shell and removed the muddy part. We boiled until it was soft enough to masticate.
I asked and he replied. “Ang pagluto ka ini ay crispy fry.” “The way it is cooked is crispy frying.” It was partnered with vinegar sauce with sprinkles of black pepper, and sliced red hot chili pepper.
I grabbed the chaser. Then he said, “Mana, mapuon na kita.” “Come on, let us start.”
Then we thanked Matador for giving us warmth.
Burp!
I never thought that I would have another horseback ride this soon especially in our local province, Albay. My last ride was when I was having a good time with my classmates in Tagaytay City several years ago. After walking uphill in ‘seem-so-ordinary’ hill, Kawakawa of Ligao City, you will be able to ride Macho for just 15 pesos in field of greener grasses.
Aba, akalain mo.
That hill is so relieving especially when resting at the back of the horse and having a chit chat with Macho’s trainer, Mang Jose. You can feel the very fresh air of the hill blowing and enveloping around your tired body. The place is also great for the souls who want to find their inner peace and for those who would truly want to strengthen their bond with God.
Experience a luxurious place to venture in Albay, Philippines.
A sensational, elite tropical destination of Misibis Bay Raintree (MBR) a.k.a. luxurious island playground of the Philippines will provide globetrotters with 24-hour butler service, comforting villas, an invigorating spa, two gratifying restaurants, concocting bars, three dipping pools, relaxing surroundings, and vast selection of activities.
Greetings from the heart!
Posing vibrant smiles, demonstrating Bicol’s Ibalong-themed dance, and saying “Greetings from the heart” will absolutely welcome every guest who just arrived. Refreshing drinks and pampering spa massage upon arrival can also heighten the MBR’s home-like and 5-star hospitality.
“Spice market” restaurant entwines fine dining and ’service from the heart’ to offer the highest quality service. The restaurant also caters with Southeast Asian dishes like Angus beef sinigang, boneless crispy pata, pinangat, Bicol express pizza, chicken inasal and chicken in braised coco cream. Menu de degustacion, a synchronize serving, is something for the diners to look for because of the feeling that you are being served as kings and queens.
Embrace the moment with your friends or special someone through outdoor dining by the poolside or the shore.
A gentle touch of table design in “Spice Market” will make your dining more satisfying and meaningful.
The bites of leche flan turon dipped in vanilla cream with shreds of pili nuts and cinnamon will delightfully play inside your mouth.
Buco lychee martini is the bestseller of Sula bar that is manned by trained bartenders.
Cooking lessons with a world-class chef will entertain your kitchen curiosity as you learn Bikolnon and other gracious creations.
Witnessing the illuminating views of islands, sea, and sky can be experienced by having a sunrise coffee on hilltop.
The villas of Misibis Bay Raintree villas are proud of their modern design of wood and glass, the 300-thread count of their sheets, overlooking panoramic views of beaches, the finest amenities, and home-like atmosphere. The heart-warming place also shares you with fresh flowers and heartfelt notes placed by the bedside.
Children will surely enjoy the water splash in Kiddie Pool and keep moving their muscles on Kiddie playground.
Soak and feel the breathable ambiance of lagoon pool. MBR is also a perfect hideaway for providing a tranquil escape from the stressful life of the urban.
Inflatables and obstacle course will exhilarate your circulation while playing with your friends and family in secured sea water.
MBR has land, aquatic or aerial outdoor activities to offer - up-close views of the majestic Mayon Volcano through helicopter ride, underwater exploration via semi-submersible vessel or scuba diving, ATV riding to Mayon Volcano or nearby eco-theme park, horseback riding, and whale-shark watching in Albay Gulf or Donsol, Sorsogon. Reaching untouched caves and refreshing falls can be extended through island hopping.
Going to gym, and playing table tennis and billiards are just the few of many activities that MBR can provide. Other fun activities would be board, Wii, and PS2 games, LCD cable TV watching, and movie room. WiFi access is a plus for those who want to stay E-connected.
Getting at Misibis Bay Raintree:
Contact Information:
Since May or June of 2009, something has changed in the aerial traffic in Albay. Almost everyday especially when the sky is calmer, I see a helicopter passing by in almost the same path where it is heading. I knew that whenever I see one, passengers would always be the public officials or Philippine soldiers ready to lend their helping hands for the victims of typhoons. But there’s no storm coming. Hmmmm. What’s with that flying? What is going on? (Misibis Bay Raintree)
The 41st National Founding Anniversary of Tau Gamma Phi / Sigma was also celebrated by the brothers and sisters from different chapters of Albay and Sorsogon in the province of Albay this October 4, 2009.
What is it?
Trail the rough roads, sail the seas, and explore the wonders of Albay, Philippines. Join the 1st Albay Eco-Challenge on climate change adaptation in celebration of the 2nd anniversary of the National Conference on Climate Change Adaptation (NCCCA).
When will it be held?
October 25-26, 2009.
How to join?
Screening: Started on August 24, 2009.
Registration Fee: P150/person only
Qualifications: Teams shall be composed of 3 individuals (male/female 18-40 years old); must be mentallly physically, and environmentally fit.
Application Form: Submit accomplished registration forms together with one (1) pc. 2×2 photo and birth certificate on or before October 19, 2009 to the CIRCA Office located at Albay Provincial Capitol Annex II, Legazpi City. (Forms can be downloaded @ www.albaycirca.org)
Whom/Where to inquire?
Event Coordinator: Mr. RYAN BOTER at 09129531515, call telefax (052) 480-3649
Email: circa.albay@gmail.com
Website: www.albaycirca.org
Blogsite: albayecochallenge.multipy.com
(Photo credit: http://zeniamai.wordpress.com)
“Albay Gov. Joey Sarte Salceda said the Legazpi Oil copra crushing plant’s reopening assures a huge boost to coconut farmers’ incomes in Albay and the Bicol region, coming as it does just when coconut trees are starting to recover from the destructive impact of the 2006 typhoons (Milenyo and Reming).”
(Source: LegOil reopening to boost Albay coconut farmers’ income. Philippine Star. Last Updated September 07, 2009)
Exposing coconut meat under the sun is the simplest way to create copra. But with the unpredictable weather change in Albay, drying up this meat can also be easily done. Just with a piece of spiky wood, yero (pieces of metal), chopped bamboos, trunks of banana trees, a small dump of coconuts, a small pit, and match sticks, one can have 4 sacks of copra in less than 4 days.
A family in Tabaco City was busy preparing to produce copra. It just happened when I arrived at their house that they were removing husks using a spiky wood, breaking each coconut shell into half and carefully placing them on the floor of bamboo. A pit was already excavated, 8 ft x 4 wide and 3 1/2 ft deep.
Trunks of banana were needed to prevent the coconuts from moving away the bamboo floor.
A small opening of the pit was made in order to slide through the coconut husks. Before setting those husks on fire, a yero should be placed over the coconut shells to keep the heat to stay longer.
“Masmagayun an arog ka ining proseso ta kontrolado an init. Dagdagan mo na lang kan bunot o kahoy kung pawara na ang sulo ngani durudiretsong maluto.” (It is better to use this method because the heat can be easily controlled. Just add more husks or wood if the fire is going to fade in order to sustain constant drying up of the meat.)
“Maaraman mo na luto na pag nagkolor-gray o nagbrown-brown na ang laman. Madali ng mahulkas sa bagul o nahahale na sanang kusa.” (You’ll know that it is cooked already if the meat turned gray or slightly brown. It can be easily removed from the shell manually or it can let itself off.)
The process of drying coco meat would take 11-15 hours per day up to 3 days if good weather prevails. However, if the sky drizzles, pieces of wide metal as a roof would be highly reliable.
After the meat has become dry (now called copra), it can be collated in sacks. “Aabutun yan mga 4 na sako tapos ipabakal mi na sa centro, P8-12 kada kilo.” (It would reach 4 sacks of copra then we can sell those in central city, P17 per kilo.) If you do the math, the family would have P3,740, reasonable enough to help provide their everyday basic needs.
Whenever I see something which brings fascination, I sometimes take my niece to witness it. Like makahiya plant just outside our house was something she wanted to see. She nicely asked me, “Tito, gusto ko pumunta sa makahiya.” (Uncle, I like to go to makahiya). When I got up from my seat, she then opened her arms laterally ready for me to pick her up. I always carried her and clearly pointed out, “Oh, yung dahon lang yung gagalawin, ah?” (Oh, the leaves should only be moved, OK?). And whenever she does that, she always giggles so loudly – she was captivated. “Tito, magic!!!”
Makahiya (Sensitive Plant) is an herb well known for closing its leaves inward and sagging when touched or shaken, and re-opening within few minutes. Its thorns should be watched out for. “After 5 minutes, bubuka uli yan, baby. Balik na lang tayo mamaya, ah?” (After 5 minutes, it will reopen, baby. We’ll get back later, ok?”, I said. Then she was nodding her head with a smile.
Its flower heads can be a pale pink or purple in color. Makahiya’s leaflets fold together and the whole leaf appears limped downward in the evening. At sunrise, it opens again.
My niece was picking these flowers. I asked a few what kind of plant is that. I got a variety of answers - “Urualasdose”, “Urualasdiyes”, and “Rosas de alas diyes”. Of course, I’ve chosen what was pleasant to my ears, the latter. It is great for gardening and landscaping.
“Nata man pinangaran na arog kaan” (Why it was named as that?), I asked.
One of them explained, “An burak kaan minakipot pag alas singko nin hapon, tapos mabuka an kinaagahan, mga alas diyes nin aga. Pag alas dose nin udto, bukahun na an tapos masara naman utro pagkahapon.” (Its flower will close forming like a bud at 5pm, and then will start to bloom again in the morning at 10am, At 12 noon, it is already fully bloomed then it will close again in the afternoon.)
It has the variety of colors - pink, white, or a combination of two. Notice that its leaves moved upward closer to their stems. In this picture, the yellow flower is not of Rosas de alas diyes but it has the same open-close mechanism.
——-
Save our planet Earth, let us preserve the beauty of nature.
I made my avocado-banana con hielo right after blogging my previous post.
Ingredients: 1 pc of avocado, 2 pcs of whole banana [sliced], few crushed ice, 1 ½ tsp of sugar, 3 tbs of powdered milk, 5 tbs of water.
Together, I just mixed it all. Add few water from the faucet for additional mobility. I garnished it with flakes of biscuits, bits of jackfruit, and a bigger slice of banana. And wala!
Outside the house, I was quitely slurping it in while feeling the breeze of cool air. Isn’t it redundant, cold food in a cool weather? Not really, it felt really good right after you made a post.
(play the audio clip)
Actually, having this snack can suit your mood better when listening to this kind of music.
Hmmmmm. What a lucious taste!
I happened to stumbled upon 2 people of my friends from the past yesterday as I get my NBI Clearance and NSO Birth Certificate.
The graduate school days were too short for me as I have given up finishing the degree. I made few good friends especially Mr. Thad. Such a clever person and funny one. I never met his wife amd my goddaughter in in person but I was pleased that he hadn’t changed even in a slight manner. Still very open to me with his thoughts. “Inaabutan mo na ako sa katawan ko, ah?” (You are keeping up with my body). I laughed and said “Yeah, I gotten so big”. I never expected that my enthusiasm towards our profession would become high again because of him. He was persuading me that it is still marketable. With subbing and part-time mentoring in two colleges, he is able to fulfill his duty as a husband and a father of three. I can sense he is enjoying his work. He also shared to me he’s taking bigger opportunity than what Philippines could offer. Our meet up in a limited time were sort of a big bang to me.
After I got the receipt from NSO, I had my snacks then headed to NBI. I saw a familiar face again and familiar head. It was Roni with HIV (hair is vanishing). I gave him a startle with “Isnabun si padi.” (You are snubbing me). Then he stared at me with a poker face looking puzzled. Maybe he was thinking “who the heck are you?”. Then he smiled, giggled a bit, patted my shoulder and finally said, “Oh, nata yaon ka digdi?” (Why are you here?). I said, ”May tig-asikasu sana.” (I’m taking care of something). I can see his gestures still moves frantically but strongly suggested a feeling of being welcomed. He told to me that he resigned from his previous work in Manila (salary not enough for his family) months ago and gladly, he is staying in the province for his new work at the Department of Health Region V office. Our chit chat led to an invitation to a night out with his friends and co-workers this Friday night (happy time at Pepperland Hotel!!!). Buruyungan na naman ini! (Drinking time ‘til drunk again!)
As I was done with NBI, I decided to walk back to NSO to obtain my birth certificate. I was feeling uneasy already. I need to be there quick. Then a path appeared before me (maybe lucky). I ask the guy if I can get through with it to the other side. He said and carefully guided me, “Yes, go straight ahead, turn left, then turn right.” Here’s what I’ve been to…
A dark narrow path (if there’s no flash out from cam) with cool gush of air. Not meant for people (public) to walk on by but I insisted.
What can you expect from canal water? Black, and dirty. Filthier if there were roaches and worms. Lucky I was, it was not-overflowing.
See how narrow and dark was it? I came out there.
In a week of composing, nothing but only paper and pen, no Microsoft word for quick editing, the literary piece was created during the era (guess when?) where Marc Logan has commenced to make hilarious and funny ruckus in his news reports. Believe me or not, the piece was published!
It was about a charming, beautiful girl and her five suitors with the style of their own. Let me start with my first character, Fiona , a sugary sweet young lady. She was modest, composed, reserved, refined, smart and was the most beautiful girl in the class. One of our achievers as a beauty title holder in our school, was also a majorette, and active participant in so many extra-curricular. She was religious too and a well-spoken dame. She entertained suitors on separate occasions but she can’t stop them from lunging at the same time.
Wolly (first ant) was the most persistent one. He didn’t accept the fact that he was already ‘basted’ (dumped). He kept on pursuing, even try to hold her hands like ‘I’m begging please.”
Then there’s Erik, the second one, a handsome and humble. But I used to nickname him in my mind ‘Mr. Telephone’ who didn’t have the guts to propose in person. He was very confident though using a landline, but always subsided when in front of her.
This third ant was my best pick for the sugar. Hercules’ love was so pure and true, no hidden agenda, not a boastful person, always putting his feet on the ground, and a real man who knew how to handle his lady. Barako ini!
With no angst in courting the princess, the fourth suer, Arnold was indeed comfortable with his handsome look and ways. His has surging genuine emotions towards her and has mixed race with which he thought that he has high probability in succeeding her heart first over.
Finally, the last one, Dewey is clever, and intelligent. His love was respectful (one of the best qualities), enough for the sugar to entertain him nicely. His love for studies and her were of equal level (I don’t think so).
Then, we, the sugar, and the ants all graduated together. Wanna know you won the race?
Unfortunately, Wolly went to the other side last 2004. We dearly miss you. You were a good buddy of mine. You were not a pretentious one. Thanks for sharing your passion for music (Gandang Kupas, and Champagne Supernova, etc.), and your love for reading. Showing your affection towards your family was a noble and great thing you did.
Erik is a responsible father and husband, who lives in Tiwi, Albay. I’m so happy for you dude. He was kind to me, good in playing basketball and can be easily approached by anyone.
Hercules is a sailor and a happily married man. He is one of my best buddies, very understanding, and very down-to-earth guy? Nuarin daw kita majamming utro? Na-miss ko nang irinuman ta padi. Salamat sa tabang during our high school days, aram mo na ito.[When can we jam? I missed our drinking trip dude. Thanks for you help during our HS days, you know what it is.] Thanks also for being my confidant (somehow).
Arnold is now residing in London, pursing his passion for music, probably having a great time of his life. Salamat ta naging pingpong buddy taka kan HS. Dawa napipikon ako pagnadadaog mo ako kaidtu, cool ka lang pirmi sako. [Thanks for being a pingpong buddy during HS. Even though I was always hotheaded when I lose to you, you always treated me nicely.]
Dewey is a graduate of BS Computer Science, very dedicated to his work. Musta na ang valedictorian kan batch ta? Salamat pala ta naging sandalan taka man sa pag-adal. (How’s our valedictorian of our batch? Thanks for assisting me to learn our studies.)Thank you for sharing joys and good laughs.
Fiona is now happily involved with someone, candidly, not to one of those ants. She is successful in her career right now as a client care provider. Big thanks to you for letting me copy your preparations.
____
Notice: The article was based on real people and event. However, names of people mentioned above were created purposely.
The whole competition, Regional SCUAA 2002, was breathe-taking. It happened 7 years ago at Freedom Stadium in Pili, Camarines Sur and was hosted by Camarines Sur Polytechnic College. [Maybe that time, Camsur Watersports Complex (CWC) did not yet exist.] The stadium was spacious enough to allow competitors to play on a baseball field, athletic tracks, swimming pools and other sports areas.
The swimming team of Bicol University (BU) posed their smiles as they won the over-all event. The handsome boys and beautiful girls had eight members each that were guided and accompanied by their happy coach. They mostly farmed gold but Spiky reaped nothing at all. However, despite Spiky getting no any medal, he considered it a helluva fun of experience to hear the crowds screaming over the spot while he vehemently battled to grab the 3rd position.
Spiky dearly misses competing. Good thing he is able to have a glimpse of his memory. That brings back the feeling of touching the pool water, smelling the chlorine, seeing the unpredictable sky and hearing those loud voices.
___
The team joyously celebrated eventually. At home university, the swimming team decided to build an organization for BU swimmers - “Lusbog BU”. It was supposed to create a program for those who would want to learn to swim , in return, to support the current and incoming varsity athletes in the said sport. [I wonder what happened to that plan.]
August 18, 1973
FortBonifacio
Makati , Rizal
Ms. Maria Elena C. Aquino
25 Times St. Quezon City
My dearest Ballsy,
I write you this letter with tears in my eyes and as if steel fingers are crushing my heart because I wanted so much to be with you as you celebrate your legal emancipation. Now that you have come of age, my love, a voice tells me that I am no longer young and suddenly, I feel old.
An old poet gave this advice very long ago “when you are sad, remember the roses will bloom in December.” I want to send you bouquet of roses, big red roses from my dreamland garden. Unfortunately for the present, my roses are not in bloom, in fact they have dropped all their petals and only the thorns are left to keep me company. I do think it is fitting to send you a thicket of thorns on this memorable day!
I am very proud of you because you have inherited all the best traits of your mother. You are sensible, responsible, even-tempered and sincere with the least pretenses and affection which vehemently detest in a woman. I am sure like your mother, you will possess that rare brand of silent courage and that combination of fidelity and fortitude that will be the life vest of your man in the tragic moments of his life.
During my lonely hours of solitary confinement in FortMagsaysay, Laur, Nueva Ecija last March and April with nothing else to do but pray and daydream, with only my fond memories to keep me company, I planned a weekend barrio fiesta for you in Tarlac for your 18th birthday. I fooled myself into believing that my ordeal would end with the fiscal year. I planned to invite all your classmates and friends and their families for the weekends.
The schedule called for an early departure by bus from Manila and the first stop will be Concepcion , where lunch will be served by the pool. And after lunch, you were to visit the SantaRitaElementary School to distribute cookies and ice cream to the children of that public school where you were first enrolled.
I guess sheer nostalgia prompted me to include Santa Rita. We were only three then: Mommie, you and I. Those were the days of happy memories little responsibilities, tremendous freedom, a great future ahead and capped by a fulfillment of love. You are the first fruit of our union, the first proof of our love and the first seal of our affections.
From Concepcion we were to proceed to Luisita for the barrio fiesta. I intended to invite a friend who could roast an entire cow succulently. Swimming, pelota, dancing and eating would have been the order of the day.
Sunday morning was reserved for a trip around the Hacienda and the mill and maybe golf for some of the parents and later a picnic-lunch on Uncle Tony’s Island . Return to Manila after lunch. I am afraid this will have to remain as one of the many dreams I had in Laur.
Our future has suddenly become uncertain and our fate unknown. I am even now beginning to doubt whether I’ll ever be able to return to you and the family. Hence, I would like to ask you these special favors.
Love your mother, whose love for you, you will never be able to match. She is not the greatest mother in the world, she is your sincerest friend.
Take care of your younger sisters and brother and lavish them with the love and care I would like to continue giving them but am unable to do so.
Help Noy-noy along and pray hard that he will grow to be a real, responsible man who in later years will protect you all.
You are the model for your three younger sisters. Your responsibility is therefore great. Please endeavor to live up to our highest expectations. Be more tolerant to Pinky, more accessible to Viel, our little genius-princess, and more charitable to Krissy, our baby doll, and make up for my neglect.
Finally, forgive me, my love, for not having been an ideal, good and thoughtful father to you all as I pursued public office. I had hopes and high resolve of making up, but I am afraid my destiny will not oblige.
I seal this letter with a drop of tear and a prayer in my heart, that somehow, somewhere we shall meet again and I will finally be able to make up for all my lapses, in the kingdom where justice reigns supreme and love is eternal.
I love you,
Dad
Kawakawa Hill
Natunawan Cove
