A REFLECTION OF CLASS ChE 66 in the Milestones of Life as time marches on
To The Class of '66,
We are on to the next or maybe the last chapter of our life. As we age and the time passes us by, on to the golden years, it is best to embolden our friendship that was put on hold because of our immediate priorities to our families. It is for this reason, that we need to reminisce the old days even more, first with letters and pictures then join together like the classmates of old, with a common goal.
My retirement since 2005 has been wonderful, and hopefully, you are successful in getting yours. I thank God for this gift, that we were given the chance, for the education and training for our special profession; The chance to prosper in a land of peace and plenty. While maybe, the fifty seven years since graduation, was challenging in a new strange land, we prevailed the struggles, temptations, and retreats. As the poem said above, it was not so easy. Now with the economy on the rocks, it is far arduous and difficult to get to where we are.
In retrospect, I find it compelling or my duty to give, contribute for the next generation and the global community that made my life worthwhile. To whom much is given, much is expected. - Luke 12:48. It is therefore fitting for us blessed, to organize, protect, nurture, keep faith with our beloved country, appreciate nature and the environment in whatever we can.
Bringing in the enviroment into light, we also can only hope that the alarming climate change and the ecological responses are 50 to 100 years away. But it's not 50 to 100 years away -- it's happening now in forest ecosystems through fire. The facts are unequivocal, and point to a troubling future ahead. Over 2100 fires, scorching some 900,000 acres, have set a new 2008 record for early-season wildfires in California.We are certainly in the midst of Global Warming;crisis of floods and droughts through out the planet. Skeptics, the debate is over, join our goal to STOP using fossil fuels as quickly as possible, to PLANT trees and end all destruction of natural habitat and PREPARE for what cannot now be stopped. Even small things make a difference spread over a large population. There are three levels of action: Personal, Political and to Prepare. They all require enormous personal and governmental commitment. The third, to Prepare for the impact of what cannot be stopped........
It is a premiere topic of our generation, about saving our wonderful planet earth, and also ourselves too. In my efforts to emphasize my solutions and prevention of the catastrophe ahead, I recall the quotation. "Tell people something they know already and they will thank you for it. Tell them something new and they will hate you for it." With that, I hope not to fall in the latter category. My goal is to keep everybody abreast and involved to prevent the future dim scenario in the mother country. If we do not implement the gentle methods to placate our environment, the Philippines and all areas in "the tropics with its few resources and growing population will resort to war and violence to satisfy the hunger of the populace in this climate catastrophe." What we have sown in this planet will bring forth a harsh aftermath and gone will be the pleasant existence of our past. This topic has become a moral issue. The havoc and destruction will be more than the combined effects of WWI, WWII and the 1929 depression. It is about, how the recent generations could destroy all what man has created in the past 10,000 years............ASC
We are on to the next or maybe the last chapter of our life. As we age and the time passes us by, on to the golden years, it is best to embolden our friendship that was put on hold because of our immediate priorities to our families. It is for this reason, that we need to reminisce the old days even more, first with letters and pictures then join together like the classmates of old, with a common goal.
My retirement since 2005 has been wonderful, and hopefully, you are successful in getting yours. I thank God for this gift, that we were given the chance, for the education and training for our special profession; The chance to prosper in a land of peace and plenty. While maybe, the fifty seven years since graduation, was challenging in a new strange land, we prevailed the struggles, temptations, and retreats. As the poem said above, it was not so easy. Now with the economy on the rocks, it is far arduous and difficult to get to where we are.
In retrospect, I find it compelling or my duty to give, contribute for the next generation and the global community that made my life worthwhile. To whom much is given, much is expected. - Luke 12:48. It is therefore fitting for us blessed, to organize, protect, nurture, keep faith with our beloved country, appreciate nature and the environment in whatever we can.
Bringing in the enviroment into light, we also can only hope that the alarming climate change and the ecological responses are 50 to 100 years away. But it's not 50 to 100 years away -- it's happening now in forest ecosystems through fire. The facts are unequivocal, and point to a troubling future ahead. Over 2100 fires, scorching some 900,000 acres, have set a new 2008 record for early-season wildfires in California.We are certainly in the midst of Global Warming;crisis of floods and droughts through out the planet. Skeptics, the debate is over, join our goal to STOP using fossil fuels as quickly as possible, to PLANT trees and end all destruction of natural habitat and PREPARE for what cannot now be stopped. Even small things make a difference spread over a large population. There are three levels of action: Personal, Political and to Prepare. They all require enormous personal and governmental commitment. The third, to Prepare for the impact of what cannot be stopped........
It is a premiere topic of our generation, about saving our wonderful planet earth, and also ourselves too. In my efforts to emphasize my solutions and prevention of the catastrophe ahead, I recall the quotation. "Tell people something they know already and they will thank you for it. Tell them something new and they will hate you for it." With that, I hope not to fall in the latter category. My goal is to keep everybody abreast and involved to prevent the future dim scenario in the mother country. If we do not implement the gentle methods to placate our environment, the Philippines and all areas in "the tropics with its few resources and growing population will resort to war and violence to satisfy the hunger of the populace in this climate catastrophe." What we have sown in this planet will bring forth a harsh aftermath and gone will be the pleasant existence of our past. This topic has become a moral issue. The havoc and destruction will be more than the combined effects of WWI, WWII and the 1929 depression. It is about, how the recent generations could destroy all what man has created in the past 10,000 years............ASC
A Psalm of Life
I have collected tidbits and stats from our college years from colleagues, mostly pictures depicting our field trips from Balara to Bagiuo, to our oath taking as newly registered chemical engineers, and finally to our latest pictures of today in our 60's. It did not seem much before, as I mused over the letters and e-mails, but collectively the combination of the pictures and the words became alive. Now, in my mature years, I look back to the days gone by. I relish the memories, and then marvel at how far we have gone forward the milestones and challenges. These we should be proud off to share with every classmate .......... The year 2008 makes the 42nd anniversary of our class. From this inauspicious beginnings we rose as one group of individuals in our chosen profession within the mother country and our beloved USA. We became a part of a huge extended family, no matter the miles that separate us, yet find unity in a common experience and purpose.. Forever classmates....ASC ....http://groups.google.com/group/MIT-ChE1966/web/our-class-overview
Here's another photo I found from our Baguio field trip - circa 1966. My guess is from L to R, top to bottom: Ben Asis, Lando Castillo, Nato Dimayuga, Merle Briones, Sheila Tempongko, Meny Reyes Banares, Lilia Antonio, Tony Alialy, Me, Pedro Palermo, Rosalina Dirige Corbett, Leonila Coronel, Fe Gana & Rhodora Sarmiento..OscarHThanks for then picture. This was taken in 1966. The reason I remember is because, in the picture I was in black because my grandmother died in 1966. Thanks for identifying ulit. The lady next to Fe Gana is Clarita Sarmiento. Regards, Sheila
First we were young; then we were middle age; then we are old; then we will be wonderfullSeated: 1-Alex Custodio, 2- Tony Diza, 3(back) Oliver Masil, 4-Alwayne Carino, 5-Jess Bustria, 7(back) Rudy Jose, 8-Oscar Santos, 9(back) Romy Reyes ;Standing: 1-Rick, 2-Beda Bera, 3(back) Rene Rivera, 4-Greg Alcaraz, 5-Leon Delos Santos, 7-Ismael, 8-Rudy Banares, 9-Eddie Antonio,10-Mike Bernardino. This was taken at the Balara Water Treatment works. This photo is also linked with http://picasaweb.google.com/ismael.ifurung/MITGroup Most have been posted before in MyFamily.com ; some are from Jerry Ada and from Rene Rivera............
Hello Everyone, I have an old picture taken 40 years ago. I want to bring it to date to show how we look at present. I have all faces from the old picture superimposed with the exception of Juanita Isidro. Unless I get in touch with her I will not be able to complete my project. Has anybody seen my old friend, Juanita? If you do, please send me her address so I can ask for her latest photo. I bet that you too are anxious to see how she looks this time. I can only imagine that she looks better now just like all the ladies in the picture. I tell you these girls really know how to reverse the aging process. They all age gracefully and get better over the years just like vintage wine. I am attaching the pictures THEN and NOW and you be the judge. Looking forward to hearing from you. ..............Tony A ...........................The list shows the graduates of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. The exuberance of my youth showed in the check marks after the names of candidates who took the ChE Board exams on Jan 9, 1967 and passed. It does not reflect the ability of others who took the same examination later. As engineers, we will later find out, that street smarts will be the better gauge on how we reached our individual goals in life.............................Alexander The exciting 60's brought the most change and maybe the last innocent decade of our generation 
 Ah me! the forty years since last we met Seem to me forty folios bound and set By Time, the great transcriber, on his shelves, Wherein are written the histories of ourselves. What tragedies, what comedies, are there; What joy and grief, what rapture and despair! What chronicles of triumph and defeat, Of struggle, and temptation, and retreat! What records of regrets, and doubts, and fears What pages blotted, blistered by our tears! What lovely landscapes on the margin shine, What sweet, angelic faces, what divine And holy images of love and trust, Undimmed by age, unsoiled by damp or dust!
Philippine Military Academy park, Baguio, Philippines
CLICK EACH ALBUM BELOW APO DELTA 23rd annual reunion at Brod Tony Santillan AUG 31,2014 |  Deceased ChE Class'66 Mapuans Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning's hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die. Mary Elizabeth Frye click the above Deceased....... Rest, comrades, rest and sleep! the thoughts of men shall be As sentinels to keep, your rest from danger free...... So walking here in twilight, O my friends! I hear your voices, softened by the distance, And pause, and turn to listen, as each sends his words of friendship, comfort, and assistance. Goodbye, my friends, goodbye. The appointed parting Promises a meeting ahead. Goodbye, my friends, without hand, without word, Don't be sad and don't upset your brows, - In this life to die is not new, But to live, of course, is not newer. Goodbye, my friends, goodbye It was preordained we should part And be reunited by and by. Goodbye: no handshake to endure. Let's have no sadness - furrowed brow. There's nothing new in dying now Though living is no newer.            These are some list of our Classmates who are deceased including the above 1. Josefino Dakita Josefino Sayas Dakita 2. Rodrigo Cajulis 3. Rolando Yulo Rolando Munzon Yulo 4. Fred Toreja Alfredo Catapia Toreja 5. Emanuel Celis 6. Oliver Masil................ 7. Reynaldo Cadiz     To Reynaldo Cadiz’s MIT Classmates, Thanks so much for your love, support, kindness, encouragement and generosity. Thanks for the beautiful floral arrangement that you sent. We are so grateful. We are also so thankful for your friendship with Dad. He always talked about his MIT classmates and was very proud to be a part of your lives. Love, Cora, Jose, Charmaine, Mary Jo, Caroline and the kids Please be informed that Oscar Janeo has passed away about nine or so years ago. He was with Pacific Products and transferred to Cord Chemicals, both members of the Philippine Association of Paint Manufacturers. If I am not mistaken, he even served as one of its directors sometime in the '90"s. Regards to all, Sheila Tempongko-Obedoza   Renato Dimayuga's decision to return to Pinas and work as chief of a regional hospital that handles mainly charity cases is quite admirable, especially since the salary is peanuts compared to what he can make in the US . Now that Ben has experience, perhaps he can quit his day job and plan/manage the next reunion. ...Rudy
  The brooklet came from the mountain, as sang the bard of old, Running with feet of silver over the sands of gold! Far away in the briny ocean there rolled a turbulent wave, Now singing along the sea-beach, now howling along the cave. And the brooklet has found the billow, though they flowed so far apart, And has filled with its freshness and sweetness that turbulent, bitter heart! And when the eve is born, in the blue lake the sky, o'er-reaching far, Is hollowed out, and the moon dips her horn, and twinkles many a star. Inverted in the tide stand the gray rocks, and trembling shadows throw, And the fair trees look over, side by side, and see themselves below. Sweet April! many a thought is wedded unto thee, as hearts are wed; Nor shall they fail, till, to its autumn brought, life's golden fruit is shed. ...HWL
 To The Class of '66, We are on to the next or maybe the last chapter of our life. As we age and the time passes us by, on to the golden years, it is best to embolden our friendship that was put on hold because of our immediate priorities to our families. It is for this reason, that we need to reminisce the old days even more, first with letters and pictures then join together like the classmates of old, with a common goal. My retirement since 2005 has been wonderful, and hopefully, you are successful in getting yours. I thank God for this gift, that we were given the chance, for the education and training for our special profession; The chance to prosper in a land of peace and plenty. While maybe, the forty two years since graduation, was challenging in a new strange land, we prevailed the struggles, temptations, and retreats. As the poem said above, it was not so easy. Now with the economy on the rocks, it is far arduous and difficult to get to where we are. In retrospect, I find it compelling or my duty to give, contribute for the next generation and the global community that made my life worthwhile. To whom much is given, much is expected. - Luke 12:48. It is therefore fitting for us blessed, to organize, protect, nurture, keep faith with our beloved country, appreciate nature and the environment in whatever we can. Bringing in the enviroment into light, we also can only hope that the alarming climate change and the ecological responses are 50 to 100 years away. But it's not 50 to 100 years away -- it's happening now in forest ecosystems through fire. The facts are unequivocal, and point to a troubling future ahead. Over 2100 fires, scorching some 900,000 acres, have set a new 2008 record for early-season wildfires in California.We are certainly in the midst of Global Warming;crisis of floods and droughts through out the planet. Skeptics, the debate is over, join our goal to STOP using fossil fuels as quickly as possible, to PLANT trees and end all destruction of natural habitat and PREPARE for what cannot now be stopped. Even small things make a difference spread over a large population. There are three levels of action: Personal, Political and to Prepare. They all require enormous personal and governmental commitment. The third, to Prepare for the impact of what cannot be stopped........ It is a premiere topic of our generation, about saving our wonderful planet earth, and also ourselves too. In my efforts to emphasize my solutions and prevention of the catastrophe ahead, I recall the quotation. "Tell people something they know already and they will thank you for it. Tell them something new and they will hate you for it." With that, I hope not to fall in the latter category. My goal is to keep everybody abreast and involved to prevent the future dim scenario in the mother country. If we do not implement the gentle methods to placate our environment, the Philippines and all areas in "the tropics with its few resources and growing population will resort to war and violence to satisfy the hunger of the populace in this climate catastrophe." What we have sown in this planet will bring forth a harsh aftermath and gone will be the pleasant existence of our past. This topic has become a moral issue. The havoc and destruction will be more than the combined effects of WWI, WWII and the 1929 depression. It is about, how the recent generations could destroy all what man has created in the past 10,000 years............ASC 
        Illusion! Underneath there lies The common life of every day; Only the spirit glorifies With its own tints the sober gray. In vain we look, in vain uplift Our eyes to heaven, if we are blind, we see but what we have the gift Of seeing; what we bring we find. Illusion! Underneath there lies.       Meny Banares BELOW 
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Sept. 1966: The Brothers Alpha Phi Omega (APO) Fraternity of the Delta Chapter Philippines circa 1966, from L# 1 Renato Perez, L #2 Virgilio Macalinao, L#3 - kneeling, me Alexander Custodio, 4-kneeling, Warlito Boquiren ChE66, L#5 Johnny Lee, ?,L#7 Roberto Sobrepena, L#8 hidden halfway Camilo Assuncion Standing on the far left Derige (the brother of Rosalina Corbet, Mario Templado, Rolly Calumpong, Joe Calvo, Cesar Frias, Jojie Catibog, ?, Advisor Prof. Sevilla and daughter, Bonni Tong, Alex Tiquia, Jonah Molina. More than 350,000 members have joined Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity since it's founding, at 366 college campuses here in the US alone, not counting other countries. Our mission is to prepare campus and community leaders through service. Our purpose is to develop leadership, to promote friendship and to provide service to humanity....... ASC 
45 years later, Feb 19, 2011: After the years of absence from the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity, I rejoined the fold and found the warmth of friendship. Getting reacquainted with old friends and meeting new brothers. I am in my advance years, but my youth came back amongst the Brods, which is invigorating. I am very much in good company when I say ahh youth, as the older Brods Tito Cerdan at age 84 can still hang around with us, Rey Cacabelos, and Cesar Frias, who are from earlier batches, can feel the same thing in their hearts, as emotions betray them. I intend to make a separate blog entirely for APO, ie. like my Sixties, and then place all the pictures of our Valentine excursion from Stockton, California. Rejoiced, as it was a sweet reunion too, of my long lost best buddy Brod Cesar who was also a neighbor a classmate at MIT a twin brother in our escapades on dates and trips to Tanay. We have not seen each other for 45 years. We just have to makeup for the lost years, ie. the same with Brods Rey Cacabelos, Fortune Cumigad, Jonah Molina. We give our sincere appreciation to the family of Brod Jonah and Rose for the warm, kind accommodations and specially to Marjoe and Jo Ann for the warm beds rendered. The food was excellent. You guys missed the "alimango" when Mel Gonzales of ETA chapter came in after lunch. I hope to see you again in the near future, as the warm and cordial mood pervading the celebrants and guests was uplifting to the spirit. The only thing I wish, was to remember all the names of the Brods present during the gathering like Jojo Lobusta, Jun Malan, Tony Santilan, Larry of Gamma, Oliver our youngest, Trigo from Dist7, Betcha Dist4, (Caltrans designation for areas in California of which I was in HQ Sacramento and Dist. 4 San Francisco during the 60’s /my youth) Reigel my neighbor from the Bay Area, Ferdie who was an inspirational MC, Joel Pablo, who was kind enough to share his prize, Oca Atienza a long lost acquaintance from my MIT years. Forgive my senior mind in the advent of forgetfulness, if I was not able to mention the rest of the Brods. To those who did not make it, it was a fine dignified affair at the Hilton, that continued on toward the wee hours of the AM at Brod Jonah’s place to the consternation of the neighbors. I think some of the Brods continued their celebration outside, and got shooed away by some friendly but sleepy neighbors. With all the talk, laughter, and joyous celebration, I can not wait for the next one. Till we meet again….ASC
Hi Brod El Prez Jonah Molina, the other officers of the APO Delta Chapter Overseas Alumni Association, , Committee members of the different committees and all those who in one way or another were involved in the preparation and in organizing an enjoyable and memorable valentine's day celebration, CONGRATULATIONS. Just so sad that the fun and merry making and the last miniute meeting had to be cut short by house rules and the meeting had to be continued in Brod El Prez Jonah's place. That was indeed an affair to remember and I am so glad and happy that I did not miss this wonderful occasion. The atmosphere that pervaded was so cordial that one could feel the happiness and the close comeraderie of all the attendees. The program was short but was full of fun and enjoyment and the music so enticing that even the elderly could not help but join in the fun.. Sister Betcha and the other lady sister really did a wonderful job prepaing the venue and the parlor games, bursting the balloon, blowing the balloon, the raffle, etc. were all but terriffic. Thank you all , for inviting me to this occasion. I am so happy that God has granted my prayers to give me strength to be able to endure the rigors of the gathering so I could renew acquaintances wih kabrods that I met in 2009, during my first time ever to attend a gathering of Apo Deltans since I was initiated to the Fraternity in 1952. I am afraid that Mr. Alzeimer is fast approaching on me that I may not be able to remember all of those whom I met in 2009. .It was also an opportune time to meet new ones. I could not help but remember with heartfelt gratitude and thanks that it was Brod Joel Pablo who woke me up from my deep slumber as a Deltan. It was Brod Joel who introduced me to the APO Delta Chapter Alumni Association USA and Canada.Valentine's Day celebration in Sacramento CA., in 2009. This was my first time ever to attend a gathering of APO Deltans since 1952. Thanks to Brod Jun Malan, who together with hiis wife Vangie, fetched me from San Jose, so I could attend the celebration. Also my thanks to Brod Tony and his Wife Anne, for the nice Jacket and cozy accomodation then. Thanks to Brod Ben Gacusan for taking me back home to San Jose. Brods Ben Gacusan, Sam Pitman, Enting Ellescas, who are all in the Philippines right now and were not able to join the fun, (I missed you guys), and Brod Ferdie del Rosario, dropped by my place in San Jose on their way to the reunion in September 2009, to find out if I can join them to the reunion. Much as I wanted very much to do so, my health condition at the time did not warrant my joining them.By the way, Brod Ferdie, together with wife Betcha were not only great MCs but were also a very cordial hosts. With them around one can always be at ease. I would like to acknowledge with gratitude the kind help of Brod Jojo Lobusta, whom I met only two weeks ago but had become so intimate, that we are now like friends of long ago. It was Brother Jojo, who picked me up and brought me back to San Jose and he was also my tutor in the new APO hand shake and whistle. These new tricks came in handy during the sumptous brunch gatherng at Brod Jonah and Sis Rose place.. IIt was amusing to see kabrods , the young ones, looking amazed upon hearing a whistle imanating from , the young once, an old guard of the 52s. Thanks to the proddings of my Tutor Brod Jojo. we almost slightly put the house down. It was during this time that I did have the pleasure to exchange short pleasantries with Brod Fortune Cumigad and Brod Bong Hernandez. I hope we will have a longer chit .chat next time .around. Upon arrival at Brod Johna's place,. where we were received so warmly that I felt instantly at ease, we introduced ourselves to all the Brods and Sis who were already there, I had the pleasure of meeting for the first time, ka brods who like me may likely be called "The Young Once". There was Brod Alex Custodio, who said he had been in the USA for the past 45 years without having gone back to the Philippines since then. Brod Alex was to become our room mate with Brod Jojo for the night so early morning re of the next day we did have a brief but interesting exchange of views. Brod Jonah, Sis Rose, Jomar and Jo Anne thank you so much for the cozy and wonderful accomodation. IIt was a pleasure to meet Brod Cesar Frias and his wife Cora, who, If only to emphasize the need for unity and closer comeraderie in the group,,drove all the way from Windsor, Canada to Stockton, USA, a distance of only more than three thousand miles, just to attend the Valentine's Day celebration.. Thus he said, he also proved to his darling wifey Cora that he can still drive to another gathering like this in the near future.  Brother Norie Cacabelos , whom I had the pleasure of meeting in 2009, although now maybe considered as one of the "Young Once", did compete with the "Young Ones",led by Brod Reigel and wife Mindy, in the dance floort giving the impression to all and sundry that "Hindi pa kami Laos". Though only for a brief chat I was so happy to learn from Sis Linda that your health condition has greatly improved. Carry on Brod, just do it. Am so sorry Brod Norie if my attendance deprived you and the other "Young Once" Brods the Calling as the "Most Senior" among the attendees. I did so again in 2009 when I did deprive Brod Ben Gacusan of the Calling. Pero huag kayong mainip mga Brod. You will have your time.. It was a pleasure to meet Brod Wilson Lauchang who was always there ready to assist in many ways. Brod Wilson, Jo Anne, and Brod Jojo thank you so much for taking pictures for me, Then there was Brod Larry, who dropped by and whom I had a very pleasant chit chat. I was happy to meet and talk to his wife Elsa? in the Bolinao dialect which is an adulterated Zambal dialect, her native tongue.. Sitted at our Table No 4, were myself, Brod Joel "Abu Bakar" Pablo,, Brod and Mrs Trigo Leyva, Brod Anthony Ty,his wife Fe and daughter Karissa, and Brod Oca Atiensa. The encounters of Brod Trigo as a Coast Guard which he and Brod Joel presented as a comedy skit was very amusing.and very impressive. The affair was indeed a success and once again congratulations to the Officers of the Association headed by Brod El Prez Jonah Molina and the Committees who were responsible in making the affair a resounding success. …Brod Tito Cerdan |
Brod Alex, I'm glad you enjoyed our gathering and we look forward to seeing you again. I myself had a good time mingling with brothers and sisters from Batch 1952 (Tito Cerdan) to Batch 2000 (Oliver Vergara) and those in between. It was nice to see Brod Saniel Cuison (Batch 1980) play the guitar (ala Neal Schon of Journey) and made us dance all night long. It was fun seeing the 60's brods participate in a baloon game to see who could "blow" the biggest balloon! It was nice to see Brod Cesar Frias and wife Cora, who drove over 3,000 miles from Windsor Canada and bravely climbed over the snowy Sierra mountains, experienced using tire chains, and had a flat tire on his way to Stockton, to endure all of these and still inspire us with his Unity speech. It was especially nice to see Brod Norie and wife Linda lead the line dance and made us look like amateurs. It was nice to see everyone enjoyed each other company and drank the wine (all 12 bottles) and beers - as Brod Tito Cerdan call it "agua de pataranta". It was nice to hear my batchmate, our comedian Brod Joel na "nataranta" as Abubakar and surprisingly a junior Abubakar is emerging - Brod Trigo who gave us an insight of the funny side of being a soldier in Iraq. A brave soldier indeed he is and an emerging Abubakar. It was nice to hear President Jonah speak about our fraternity and how it has shaped our lives from our college days to now. Lastly, it was nice to see everyone helped out to make the event a success. Oh what a night!!! In LFS, Brod Ferdie Hereunder are the links to the various video clips/pictures of our Valentines party at the Hilton Hotel in Stockton. Emceed by Brod Ferdie del Rosario (Batch '75C) and wife Sis Betcha (Batch '77), the 2011 Valentines Party was a complete success. From the favors and centerpieces made by Sis Betcha, to the room set-up prepped by Anne Santillan, Mindy Abueg, and Minda Abalos, set a very meaningful Valentines ambiance. The slide show, put together by Brod Wilson Lautchang (Batch '72), made us reminisce the past Valentine affairs. We were honored by the presence of Brod Tito Cerdan (1952- Charter Member), and Brod Oliver Vergara, (Batch '2000C), the oldest and youngest attendees. Brod Jojo Lobusta (Batch '88A), who took charge fetching Brod Tito, felt a great relief on learning that Brod Oliver will be attending because he will not be considered the most junior in the group and thus avoid being the"utusan". Brod Cesar Frias (Batch '62-eta) and wife Cora of Windsor, Canada travelled by car for three days and two nights just to attend the party. "No regrets" they said, because 'the party was well worth their long travel'. Brod Fortune Cumigad (Batch '64), also travelled alone continuously for 6 1/2 hours to join us. Brod Alex Custodio (Batch '64), after 45 years of hibernation, for the first time joined us in the gathering. Brod Anthony Ty (Batch '82B) and wife Fe came with their beautiful daughter Karissa. Some brods, in their eagerness to arrive early forgot to bring their party suits and had to go to the mall to buy themselves one. Brods Bong Hernandez (Batch '75C), Wilson Lautchang, Joel "Abu Bakar" Pablo (Batch '75C), and Oca Atienza (Batch 64-eta) came one day earlier and played golf in the early morning of Saturday. Brod Oca Atienza, despite his gout insisted on playing. Right after they finished the 18th hole they joined other brods to a luncheon party hosted by a brod Mel Gonzales of Eta. Brod Norie Cacabelos (Batch '61-beta) and wife Linda and the rest of the attendees enjoyed dancing to the continuous live music from the band of Brod Saniel Cuison (Batch '80B). Songs from the old sixties to the new raps filled the dance floor air. The party was not complete without the energy and laughter-filled parlor games planned and conducted by Sis Betcha del Rosario, Brod Rigel Abueg (Batch '77B) and his wife, Mindy. The Iraq experience of Brod Trigo Leyva (Batch '77B) was transformed into a hilarious skit by Brod Joel that brought the house down. Through the untiring efforts of Brod Tony Santillan (Batch '69A), Brod Jun Malan (Batch '70), and Brod Joel Pablo, we were able to come up with a Souvenir Program which will serve as our reminder that the Valentines affair is one event that brings closer camaraderie among us.
Lunchtime, Saturday and Brother Mel Gonzales Eta ’77 invited the Delta Brothers at Jonah’s place. However, after Brother Mel had saidthe grace for lunch, I had to accompany Brother Jonah to go back at his place who got a call from Jun Malan and wife Vangie. All we can think of was the sumptuous feast the Brothers were having at Mel’s while Bro. Jonah was driving on an empty stomach and I just had six roasted peanuts on the shell. I was imagining the crunchy piece of “chicaron with meat” at Brother Mel’s table when all of a sudden, I noticed that Bro. Jonah was entering the opposite ramp of the freeway – I told him ”Look out bro, the white arrow is pointing in our direction!” Perhaps it was the existing hunger or an Alzheimer’s moment that got into him. Thank God, I was able to notice it and there was no vehicle exiting the freeway or we’d be spending the Valentine Affair at the hospital. After two more unsafe lane changes accompanied with two loud honks from irate drivers, we arrived alive at Jonah’s place. What luck it was, Jun Malan told us that he forgot his suit and coat for the party thus, we have to go out again and accompany him at the mall to get one. Actually, it was a blessing in disguise - Jonah remembered that he haven’t picked up his pants in the cleaner as well. Going back at Jonah’s place, we found Brother Alex Custodio - Delta ’64 and Brother Fortune’s batchmate, Brother Jojo Lobusta ’88 who picked up Brother Tito Cerdan, Charter’52. After my lunch of pear and a packet of Sky Flakes (lost my appetite), I asked Jonah that I need to go to the hotel and get dressed. On the driveway, we saw Brother Tony Santillan who just arrived and wearing a frown – the reason why? Well, he was also missing his pants and what happened next was Jonah had to take Tony with us, drove him to the mall and pick him up after dropping me at the hotel. Hey, we found a new talent during the program – Trigo “Trigger” Leyva and yours truly, Abu Bakar! Brother Ferdie, the MC called me up for my Abu Bakar jokes during the course of the program as usual but, I wasn’t really prepared. Remembering Brother Trigo telling us his funny experiences during his training and post Iraq days the night before, I just decided to call him up on the stage and interviewed him as one of our “unsung heroes.” The whole antic turned out as a comedy act that made the Brothers and guests in the audience roared with laughter. FYI, Brother Trigo is a reserved Coast Guard and a member of the elite Delta force (like you, I am also wondering how it happened J!). One of the funniest moments came right after the party when everyone decided to go back at Brother Jonah’s place for a nightcap. Brother Oca Atienza Eta’64 – upon seeing everyone’s condition (wasted as ever), had volunteered to drive for us, a senior doing a service to the younger Brothers, thank you, Brother Oca! After staying there until 4:00 am, Brothers Rigel, Bong Anthony Ty, and yours truly went back to the hotel. Bong was surprised to find out that because he was all wasted, he wrongfully put on the wrong pair of shoes – no shoelaces. And mind you, he was ever so careful on not to step on the laces while treading the wet sidewalk! Brother Wilson couldn’t go back to sleep anymore because he was dying of laughter. Wilson suggested that he just took it with him and send it back later since we were in a hurry, but Bong said that it was an expensive pair making it mandatory to return to Brother Jonah’s place. It was Brother Alex Custodio’s shoes that Bong wore by mistake.
Muse APO DELTA 1966 MY WIFE TO THE RIGHT ST. THERESA GRADUATED CLASS 1967 BS BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH TOP HONORS ........ SUMMA CUM LAUDE Finally, it was time for us to depart. Tight handshakes and hugs were exchanged. Brother Oca couldn’t help getting misty eyed, he has to wear his Ray Bans to hide it. Sadness and happiness both can be seen on each other’s faces as we bade goodbye to the brothers at Jonah’s place. I can’t forget the tight hug that Brother Tito made – reluctantly letting you go, his eyes reddened with tears. Thanks so much to Brother Jojo Lobusta for teaching Brother Tito the “APO whistle”. It was fun watching Brother Tito sound that whistle with a nod and a wink! I miss you all my dear brothers. Brothers Cesar Frias, Alex Custodio, and Oliver Vergara, I am really honored to meet you all and I hope to see you again and let the experience remind you of what we are. It was one of the most memorable event and I felt sorry for all who missed it. Manang Linda, Brother Norie’s wife said: “This is the most alive and joyous Valentine Party that they had attended.” Lastly let us remind ourselves what brother Cesar Frias stressed in his word of wisdom – “Let unity be the main reason to keep the fraternity alive!” Always in LFS, Bro. Joel |
When you thought everything was going great and all of a sudden….kaboom!
Through the untiring efforts of Brod Tony Santillan (Batch '69A), Brod Jun Malan (Batch '70), and Brod Joel Pablo, we were able to come up with a Souvenir Program which will serve as our reminder that the Valentines affair is one event that brings closer camaraderie among us.
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ABOVE PHOTO, MY FIRST DAY IN THE US, RIGHT PHOTO ... THE IMAGE OF MY FUTURE WIFE THAT KEPT ME GOING THRU ALL .....
The Annunziata dei Catalani (late 12th-13th century). Dating from the late Norman period...above picture in.....
I am a part of all that I have met....Lord Alfred Tennyson
Regarding SS, social security carries over to other countries, but medicare does not. The petition is for medicare, which is for healthcare
  Muse APO DELTA 1966 MY WIFE TO THE RIGHT ST. THERESA GRADUATED CLASS 1967 BS BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH TOP HONORS ........ SUMMA CUM LAUDE Folsom Lake Reservoir above, about a mile as the crow flies from the house at Deerhorn Lane around September 1993 with Lorna Jereza and Marissa. Ladies never grow old, nor change, nor pass away! Your gentle voices will flow on forever, when life grows bare and tarnished with decay, above Taken May 2005 Portugal Cruise..................... ....Sweet the memory is to me........ Of a land beyond the sea, Where the waves and mountains meet, Where the merchants with their wares, And their gallant brigantines .......Sailing safely into port .....below Leonila, Clarita, Rosalina, our Cesar Jaranilla, me and Timothy in Vallejo (11/92) at Lilia Antonio's house. Dearest Friends, Please pardon my less than prompt response to your emails, but given the situation and circumstance at hand, I'm sure that you all understand. I am extremely thankful and grateful for all of your support and prayers during these trying times; all your love and compassion inspires everyone in the family to remain vigilant and strong when it is most necessary. As of the moment, Jun is steadily recovering from the aneurysm. Although he temporarily needs the aid of a trache and a gastro-intestinal tube for now, all the signs of his health hopefully is an indication that he will eventually recover from his condition. Soon, he will be transferred to Rancho Los Amigos rehab center, which is known to have a 95% success rate. When he is transferred there, it will be okay to finally visit him if you wish to do so. I will inform everyone when this time comes. On another note, I have learned of Mike Bernandino's health condition, and I offer my prayers and support for him. He will remain in my thoughts as a dear friend to my husband and myself . Once again, I want to express my love and gratitude to everyone who has offered their support and prayers to Jun, myself, and my family. They stir in the depths of my heart and are felt by Jun and the rest my family. Again, thank you very much. Lucy Dijamco ABOVE PHOTO, MY FIRST DAY IN THE US, RIGHT PHOTO ... THE IMAGE OF MY FUTURE WIFE THAT KEPT ME GOING THRU ALL ..... The Annunziata dei Catalani (late 12th-13th century). Dating from the late Norman period...above picture in..... Messina and Taormina – more beautiful places to see but what stands out is the visit to a jewelry factory of amber, corals and other stones. We were first treated to wine and juices, coffee, tea, you name it, delicious native pastries and cheeses and nuts then on to jewelry shopping. I was amazed, I thought that by now the ladies will be out of money with all the shopping in the past and also at the Ship’s stores. But nobody can resist the fine workmanship and Giorgio’s claims that their prices are cheaper than the stores in town (??) and we still get 10% discount on top of that. Anyway, buying we did and I too spent for some jewelry I really don’t need but couldn’t resist (who knows when I’ll be there again-what an excuse) and as usual had to be last to board the bus. Giorgio has this rule of me being the last on line, last in the stores and last in the WC (quite a problem in this trip, too few and have to pay at times), takes out all the fun of sharing experiences with the group, I feel left out with all the happenings. We went to the museum and stadium (?), past several more souvenir shops, ate gelato and saw another town devastated by another volcano but this time, nobody died because we were told the lava did not have sulfides in it (H2S, SO2, SO3,...Clarita......... PICTURE LEFT WAS TAKEN 40 YEARS AGO IN OAKLAND ON MY FIRST DAY IN THE USA, NEXT LEFT IS THE SINGLE MARISSA AT HOME IN QC BEFORE HER GRADUATION BALL STC 1967....BELOW WITH JUN, MARLO AND ROLLIE AT A PLAZA IN MESSINA, NEXT PICTURES DEPICTS 38 YEARS INTERVAL AND THEN THE PORT OF DUBROVNICK........06/07.............ASC I am a part of all that I have met....Lord Alfred TennysonWith all the excitements, positive and negative feelings about the med. Cruise and land tours, it turned out to be a great experience seeing all these places and to some very remarkable/holy sites. With the exemption of the euros versus the US dollars it could have been much better with regards to shopping/buying material things for "pasalubong" for love ones. We have to save some money for the Philippine reunion and I agree with Jun Dijamco and the rest of the group to postpone the reunion until February 2009 maybe Valentines day. The balikbayan fare will be cheaper by that time. What about celebrating valentines day in the Phil.? Best regards to all.... Regina Regarding SS, social security carries over to other countries, but medicare does not. The petition is for medicare, which is for healthcare of those 65 and over, (also for some special situations.) Just a reminder, if you're not aware: Everyone should apply for medicare soon as age 65 is reached, even if you do not plan to get SS benefit at 65 because you're waiting until your full benefit age. (for most of us, full benefit age is 66 or 67). If you apply for medicare later than age 65, you are charged penalties. Same goes for the medicare drug plan. You have to choose a drug plan at 65, unless you never intend to apply for one for the rest of your life. Thanks. .........Meny We have here two speeches: one made available by Alex; the other forwarded by Marlo. Thanks to both of you. This is how I see them. The first see our poverty of spirit; the second, the Filipino spirit rising. One pictures the formidable challenges confronting us; the other depicts a future seen through rose colored glasses. One forces us to a deep and hard examination of our ills; the other makes us feel good. One seeks to get to the crux of the problem; the other offers a palliative, non-sustainable by itself. One claims thousand of youths can not get jobs because they dropped out in the 5th grade; the other states college graduates are the elite few. (Lots of college graduates are either unemployed or underemployed because there are too few jobs. They have to apply for employment overseas). One concedes that to a large extend our culture is damaged, that we have lost our ethical moorings, and that our people are lazy; the other says that our mendicant culture is man-made and that in the right setting (like here in America) Filipinos are law-abiding, hardworking and even makes more than the average in the master’s country. (I agree, there are things wrong with our culture like cronyism, our tolerating corruption and beng show-offs. But our redeeming virtues more than compensate: we have strong family ties and sense of loyalty (although sometime misdirected). We are hardworking. OFWs endure the hardships of being separated from their spouses and children. And America is NOT the master’s country; it is ours as much as anybody’). Both speeches agree: we do not need a revolution. Also, that the enemy is within us; that we are now our own enemy. That we need to change. (This is in line with tutubi’s musings (as Meny puts it) and with the observations of our own Rolando Licardo). I think there is now a growing feeling for reform. I feel that after some trepidations, and enjoying a vacation of 3 or 4 years, the baby boomers will start to come to the plate and take up the yolk. Mabuhay!Ben PI based CHE66 are all eager and will love to have the reunion in PI. Meny is right in noting that the PI reunion is being push to a later and a later date. If this will keep on happening, the PI reunion will just remain a WISH! Propposed solution: A strong Executive Committee has be organized to take charge of the PI reunion since this is not an easy task. Calling CHE66 leaders: VOLUNTEER.PI based members will give their 100% support and cooperation.The Mexican Riviera Cruise is the best time to put up the Executive Committee. ...Jun Let me thank you for having found me and putting me into your loop. With Jun and Lucy Dijamco in Messina (06/07).....picture below.....The Temple of Saturn (Latin: Templum Saturni or Aedes Saturnus) is a monument to the agricultural deity Saturn, that stands at the western end of the Forum Romanum in Rome. It represents the oldest-surviving foundation in that area, having been established between 501 and 498 BC. Some sources attributes it to the King Tarquinius Superbus, others to Lucius Furius, although the latter dedication could belong to a reconstruction after the fire set by the Gauls (early 4th century BC). It was also called 'Aerarium', because the Roman national treasure was kept there. The temple marks the beginning of the Clivus Capitolinus, the old road that takes you up the hill of the Capitol. http://picasaweb.google.com/samsondelpilar/Rome2007ReunionPhotos ............ASC With Regina and Elmer Cruz....... next picture above...The white marble Arch of Septimius Severus at the northeast end of the Roman Forum is a triumphal arch erected in AD 205 to commemorate the Parthian victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his two sons, Caracalla and Geta, in the two campaigns against the Parthians of 195 and 203. After the death of Septimius Severus, his sons Caracalla and Geta were initially joint emperors. Caracalla had Geta assassinated in 212; Geta's memorials were destroyed and all images or mentions of him were removed from public buildings and monuments. Accordingly Geta's image and inscriptions referring to him were removed from the arch.........We should learn to conserve and save more energy and do more effort to do so. Americans are spoiled of all the abundance of food and energy here as compared to some other nations. Other countries are already experiencing this high cost of food and energy for a long time. Are we luckier or better of than the rest of the world? We have more freedom and security here in America as compared to somewhere else, and this is what we should teach to our counterparts in the Philippines. Best regards to all...More inputs... Rock your vote in November.. We need more security...Regina........ We should rally against the president to abort the war and not condone the attack. Israel is looking for trouble. They should make friends with their neighboring countries, instead of making war/enemies to their neighbors and the world. Millions were killed, expelled, from Germany and Europe during world war two and this should not happen again. NO MORE WARS. Let there be PEACE on EARTH. The innocent people and the soldiers are the ones who suffer the most, not the crazy president or leaders who are just pursuing their evil agenda and egos. The truth is Israel has nuclear weapons according to ex-president Jimmy Carter when he was interviewed by the press last month, that's why Israel is very vulnerable to launch an attack to Iran. We should be producing more food to eat and not nuclear weapons to kill us all. We should produce more staple foods (rice, corn, beans, fruits,vegetables, etc.)to feed all the hungry people in the world and reduce the price of food everywhere. Here in Sacramento, California (CALROSE rice) the farmers are producing good volume of rice and that is great for us here in the US. According to your email below "global rice panic", the rice eating people in Asia and north/south America are experiencing rice problem or shortage and the prices went higher or doubled. We need some inputs to all or some of the crisis in the world. We must become the change to change the world like Gandhdi said below in his proverb. We need good leaders who can lead our nation USA and also the Philippines who can lead the 80+ million people and dedicated enough to stop corruption, abuse of power, equal justice for everyone, and promote peace and order. ......Regina On May 6,2007 Sunday, our anniversary, we were lucky to be docked in Venice for 2 days. My grandson, Jose,15, arranged through the internet with the monsignor at the Basilica di San Marco to have our mass there. The monsignor was very accommodating and we were reserved a special place in the church. I heard our names mentioned three times (the mass was in Italian) and after the mass people greeted Boy and me congratulating us. During the dinner that night, the Filipino chef prepared lechon for our table and the Filipino chefs and waiters came out to greet us (special treatment talaga from our kababayans). We had 2 delicious cakes!..Sonia Mendoza Thank you very much for your concern for our country. We always emphasize forest denudation in all our seminar/workshops in ecological waste management and its adverse effects to our environment like global warming, desertification, floods, siltation of water bodies, water supply,etc. We outline the denudation since 1900 (forest cover then was 70% but Rizal already had misgivings). According to Fr. Walpole of the Ateneo and the Manila Observatory, the Philippines will have only 8% of its forest cover in 2010. The present forest cover is 12%.The DENR suspended the logging permits in the Aurora/Quezon area when the devastating flood happened in December 2004. But these permits have been given back. The loggers are back to their merry making. Enrile has been given back his permit by senatoriable Mike Defensor when he was DENR secretary, to log in the protected area of Samar . Only the loud protests of the church and community is preventing Enrile to resume logging there. The economics of our government officials is very lopsided and twisted. The communities working in the logging areas should be given incentives to work in agriculture. We cannot even have a sufficient supply of rice but communities are lured to work for logging and mining companies! Mother Earth Foundation (MEF) and other NGOs like Haribon, Miriam Peace and many others have advocated a log ban for at least 25 years and at most 50 years to give time for our forests to recover. Logging whether legal and illegal has no place in our country which has been ravaged by greedy loggers (legal and illegal). When you cut a full grown tree in the forest, you cannot replace this by 100 trees because of the diversity lost and the water-holding capacity of the full grown tree. This tree will also release all the toxic elements it has absorbed in its system.The wood and furniture industry can wait until our country has recovered its forest cover. The furniture industry can use materials other than wood in their manufacturing process. We have to “bite the bullet” if we want to survive. We can still export furniture made oother materials. If the buyer wants wood, then they can buy from other countries that can still use wood in their furniture industry. Ciao and all the best, Sonia    |
BELOW PICTURE OF ISMAEL IFURUNG, AUDIE, RENA VERGARA AND ...MAZO
Lucy and I are very glad to learn that you are interested to visit the neigbouring countries aside from PI come January. Neither Lucy nor I have visited Thailand, China, nor Vietnam; it will be a lot of fun if we can plan a joint tour in Thailand, China, and Vietnam when Angie and you will visit PI. Perhaps we can ask some of our mutual friends/classmates based in PI, like Nanding Salvador, Ed Serra, Boy and Sonia, and Sheila and Fil Villena to join us. and also, some of our classmates, based here in US. Ismael Ifurong, I know, would love to travel to PI. Alex Custodio has never been home since he came to US. Probably we can drag him and wife, Melissa, along. Yes, Marulo, he is retired too. It will add a lot of fun, if he will join.
ABOVE PICTURE OF MARLO, OSCAR AND JUN...NEXT ABOVE.. ARE POL, ISMAEL, CIP, OSCAR AND MARLO ALL IN LAS VEGAS '03 REUNION,...NEXT BELOW ARE NARCI ENCARNARCION AND WIFE.....NEXT NEXT PICTURE BELOW CIP, POL, LOURDES, ISMAEL
You have done our class a great service. The blogspot and this email group you put up together will foster greater unity, bonding, and friendship among the
I must also confess, you are also one of the familiar face and name, I only knew then. However, this adage say, "late is better than never." I am very glad and
Above .....Photo taken March 2005, amongst our MIT friends, from left to right - Fil Villena (stayed in the Phil, but comes to the US twice a year), 1966 Art (family in Phoenix, AZ and lives alone in Akron, Ohio, binata tayo dito), 1966, Efren Afuang (stayed in the Phil), 1965, Ernie Ganuelas (stayed in the Phil, but comes to the US twice a year), 1965 ,Jun Dijamco (back-and-forth Phil & US, lost count on how many times), 1966,Lucy Dijamco, our lovely classmate-in-law. 1966.......
I must admit, that I have not been very active putting my little cent here and there, but I do enjoy reading the updates & responses that Carmina and Clarita untiringly email to us, pls keep 'em coming. I am one of the remaining few, still pounding the pavement everyday for financial reasons. However, that retirement "carrot" is getting so close that I could almost taste it - perhaps in 2 years or less. ..............Art V.............
We are on to the next chapter of our life. My retirement since last year is so wonderful, and I hope you are successful in getting yours also. I thank God for the bounty we have before us, and the training for our special profession. It is not so easy now to get to this station. As the time pass us by, on to the golden years, it is best to share our friendship that was put on hold because of our immediate priorities to our respective families. It is for this reason, that we need to communicate more, even with just letters and pictures. What you did, sending that photo, rekindles memories, it is a very nice gesture. Keep them coming. I will be on the cruise next May, hopefully, I will see you and your family, like old times again in the Intramuros Quadrangle.
Take care and Best Regards,
Alexander
Below......Here's a picture of Cesar, Perlynn, Me, Rudy & Meny at Infanta and Caesar's Palace. And correction, Ismael - it's not just maids - it's two french maids.
The morning after my arrival in Manila on Jan. 19, I looked out the window of Astoria Plaza from the 26th floor curious to see what the area looks like after 35 years. At 6AM I thought I was looking at fog, at 7AM it got thicker, then I realized it is smog, so thick I can not see the train on EDSA or the streets below. It was like that for the rest of the week. Saturday, I took the ferry to Corregidor. About a half-mile into the bay I took this picture around 8:30AM. Farther out, I looked to my left, Navotas and Malabon area, and turned to my right to Cavite, what I saw is the same as in this picture, metropolitan Manila in a blanket of smog......
In Venice, many of us went to Plaza San Marco by taking the water taxis as soon as our Ship docked. Did a lot of sightseeing, was able to get inside St. Marks Cathedral and of course some shopping. But then the rain came pouring down on us and we got wet and by the next day, I lost my voice. I was hoarse but no pain or sore throat. It stayed that way until we were back in Rome, then the coughing came, sore throat and all. The tour of Venice with Giorgio started smoothly with only a few late, but everybody showed up with even two extras (I only found out because Giorgio had to rush out and buy two extra tickets). We had an extra side treat, Giorgio was able to arrange a gondola ride for 20 euros, and 36 pax bought into these, the others were free for shopping. So after the tour of the magnificent Doge Palace, a W/C stop, we proceeded to the canal site for the gondola ride. It was then that we found out we were missing Taili and Diana who had paid for the gondola ride. Ria and I had to take their seats on the last boat and Giorgio went in search for them. The place was so crowded and packed with people, there is no way one can find them if they are not in the meeting place (unfortunately not established at this point). The gondola ride was fun, felt and saw all the sites shown in the movies but our gondolier did not serenade us, in fact he was not even Italian, he was Spanish, which was just as well because we were able to communicate a little bit in Spanish. From there we proceeded to a Murano Glass Factory nearby, saw a demonstration of glass blowing / making and then we were set free in their store of all beautiful glass designs and of course jewelries. You bet we all had fun shopping. The girls were into all corners, all the good buys & tips were passed around and the guys just stood patiently watching us. Some of my classmates were proud that their wives were not into the buying frenzy so I started teasing them, heckling some maybe, but of course it was not their call, since it was their wife’s choice not to buy as they handle the purse, he, he, he. We had to rush back to the boats (bus per Giorgio) as we were running out of time. Shopping by 74 pax just takes some time. There was no time to go to the Cathedral or be shown other sights. I’m glad most of us were there the previous day. After waiting a bit for a missing couple, we finally boarded the water taxis to the Ship but still no Taili & Diana. They thankfully made it back to the Ship in time as Taili is a seasoned traveler (pro) and knows exactly what to do.....Clarita................................................
BELOW PICTURE OF ISMAEL IFURUNG, AUDIE, RENA VERGARA AND ...MAZO
Lucy and I are very glad to learn that you are interested to visit the neigbouring countries aside from PI come January. Neither Lucy nor I have visited Thailand, China, nor Vietnam; it will be a lot of fun if we can plan a joint tour in Thailand, China, and Vietnam when Angie and you will visit PI. Perhaps we can ask some of our mutual friends/classmates based in PI, like Nanding Salvador, Ed Serra, Boy and Sonia, and Sheila and Fil Villena to join us. and also, some of our classmates, based here in US. Ismael Ifurong, I know, would love to travel to PI. Alex Custodio has never been home since he came to US. Probably we can drag him and wife, Melissa, along. Yes, Marulo, he is retired too. It will add a lot of fun, if he will join.
ABOVE PICTURE OF MARLO, OSCAR AND JUN...NEXT ABOVE.. ARE POL, ISMAEL, CIP, OSCAR AND MARLO ALL IN LAS VEGAS '03 REUNION,...NEXT BELOW ARE NARCI ENCARNARCION AND WIFE.....NEXT NEXT PICTURE BELOW CIP, POL, LOURDES, ISMAEL
You have done our class a great service. The blogspot and this email group you put up together will foster greater unity, bonding, and friendship among the
I must also confess, you are also one of the familiar face and name, I only knew then. However, this adage say, "late is better than never." I am very glad and
Above .....Photo taken March 2005, amongst our MIT friends, from left to right - Fil Villena (stayed in the Phil, but comes to the US twice a year), 1966 Art (family in Phoenix, AZ and lives alone in Akron, Ohio, binata tayo dito), 1966, Efren Afuang (stayed in the Phil), 1965, Ernie Ganuelas (stayed in the Phil, but comes to the US twice a year), 1965 ,Jun Dijamco (back-and-forth Phil & US, lost count on how many times), 1966,Lucy Dijamco, our lovely classmate-in-law. 1966.......
I must admit, that I have not been very active putting my little cent here and there, but I do enjoy reading the updates & responses that Carmina and Clarita untiringly email to us, pls keep 'em coming. I am one of the remaining few, still pounding the pavement everyday for financial reasons. However, that retirement "carrot" is getting so close that I could almost taste it - perhaps in 2 years or less. ..............Art V.............
We are on to the next chapter of our life. My retirement since last year is so wonderful, and I hope you are successful in getting yours also. I thank God for the bounty we have before us, and the training for our special profession. It is not so easy now to get to this station. As the time pass us by, on to the golden years, it is best to share our friendship that was put on hold because of our immediate priorities to our respective families. It is for this reason, that we need to communicate more, even with just letters and pictures. What you did, sending that photo, rekindles memories, it is a very nice gesture. Keep them coming. I will be on the cruise next May, hopefully, I will see you and your family, like old times again in the Intramuros Quadrangle.
Take care and Best Regards,
Alexander
Below......Here's a picture of Cesar, Perlynn, Me, Rudy & Meny at Infanta and Caesar's Palace. And correction, Ismael - it's not just maids - it's two french maids.
The morning after my arrival in Manila on Jan. 19, I looked out the window of Astoria Plaza from the 26th floor curious to see what the area looks like after 35 years. At 6AM I thought I was looking at fog, at 7AM it got thicker, then I realized it is smog, so thick I can not see the train on EDSA or the streets below. It was like that for the rest of the week. Saturday, I took the ferry to Corregidor. About a half-mile into the bay I took this picture around 8:30AM. Farther out, I looked to my left, Navotas and Malabon area, and turned to my right to Cavite, what I saw is the same as in this picture, metropolitan Manila in a blanket of smog......
In Venice, many of us went to Plaza San Marco by taking the water taxis as soon as our Ship docked. Did a lot of sightseeing, was able to get inside St. Marks Cathedral and of course some shopping. But then the rain came pouring down on us and we got wet and by the next day, I lost my voice. I was hoarse but no pain or sore throat. It stayed that way until we were back in Rome, then the coughing came, sore throat and all. The tour of Venice with Giorgio started smoothly with only a few late, but everybody showed up with even two extras (I only found out because Giorgio had to rush out and buy two extra tickets). We had an extra side treat, Giorgio was able to arrange a gondola ride for 20 euros, and 36 pax bought into these, the others were free for shopping. So after the tour of the magnificent Doge Palace, a W/C stop, we proceeded to the canal site for the gondola ride. It was then that we found out we were missing Taili and Diana who had paid for the gondola ride. Ria and I had to take their seats on the last boat and Giorgio went in search for them. The place was so crowded and packed with people, there is no way one can find them if they are not in the meeting place (unfortunately not established at this point). The gondola ride was fun, felt and saw all the sites shown in the movies but our gondolier did not serenade us, in fact he was not even Italian, he was Spanish, which was just as well because we were able to communicate a little bit in Spanish. From there we proceeded to a Murano Glass Factory nearby, saw a demonstration of glass blowing / making and then we were set free in their store of all beautiful glass designs and of course jewelries. You bet we all had fun shopping. The girls were into all corners, all the good buys & tips were passed around and the guys just stood patiently watching us. Some of my classmates were proud that their wives were not into the buying frenzy so I started teasing them, heckling some maybe, but of course it was not their call, since it was their wife’s choice not to buy as they handle the purse, he, he, he. We had to rush back to the boats (bus per Giorgio) as we were running out of time. Shopping by 74 pax just takes some time. There was no time to go to the Cathedral or be shown other sights. I’m glad most of us were there the previous day. After waiting a bit for a missing couple, we finally boarded the water taxis to the Ship but still no Taili & Diana. They thankfully made it back to the Ship in time as Taili is a seasoned traveler (pro) and knows exactly what to do.....Clarita................................................
Dear Alex ,
First of all, I would like to thank you both for the unselfish support that you have shared with me on the last day of our cruise. I will never forget Florence and Livorno and the unforgettable experience about catching the last train for Livorno and the breath taking marathon to catch the train and missing the last shuttle to the ship. Alex, I hope you told Marissa the whole story of our nerve wreching trip to Florence. I thought we will be flying to Rome then to Civitavecchia to catch the ship. Thanks for answered prayers. We made it even to the dinner. Alex, you are such a kind, and patient friend. I wish I had more chance to be around you both during the cruise. Whateve time we spent together especially during Livorno breakfast was already engrave in my mind as a beautiful memory of our friendship. I had a good time during the cruise and I thought I accomplished what I had planned for this trip. I go with your idea Alex...cruise, cruise cruise. As I was looking at your pictures in Buenos Aires, I could not stop saying Wow! This is the kind of vacation I really want to have. Affordable, relaxed and can do anything at your own pace and inexpensive. I love to travel and enjoy sight seeing like you. Hope someday we can join you again. My only problem is how can I convice my husband to take the cruise again.Please keep in touch. Warm regards and God Bless, Melba and Art
Marissa & Alexander
yes i used to teach in mapua after my graduation for two years and i came to United States as a teaching assistant and stay at the same time with scholarship from the school glad to hear from my fellow classmate ....marshall.........
Lilia Antonio has retired to the Phil. At least that was the plan the last time I talked to her years ago. I'll ask Meny to look her up when she goes to the Phil this month. Art Villasol has responded to my email and he said that he can not join the Cruise but will attend the Reunion
Am still living in the Philippines, married to Romeo B. Obedoza but with no kids. Am connected with Boysen Paints and teach at MIT part time. My husband is with UPLB so he stays there most of the week and comes to Manila (in Kamuning) on weekends. We do have grandchildren from our nephews who are now married. Three nephews (those I share with Mely Matic) are now in the States. But the others are also here. I have been retired and rehired by my company (they have to retire people who reach 60 - dual citizens na kasi - senior and Philippine citizenships). So I am now a consultant for the firm but on a full time basis. Am not joining the cruise but according to Clarita, you are to come home by 2008. So maybe we can all see each other here unless of course, some of you opt to retire here or come earlier. By the way, Alex, Mommy has passed away last 2004, 10 years almost to the date that Daddy did. How about your parents? Are they still around? Regards to all,............. Sheila ..........BELOW PICTURE
Dear Friends,
ASC
On to Guam. On the night of 14-15 June most of the support ships retired, leaving a handful to continue harassing fire along the coast line. Meanwhile the Western Landing Group, commanded by Admiral Hill. As dark fell the marines could observe fires burning ashore and the glow of star shells fired by the naval ships left in the area. Shortly after 0500 the gigantic convoy moved into the transport area off the west coast of Saipan. Streaks of fire from the armada of naval support ships colored the sky and the shore was blurred in a haze of smoke and dust. As the light improved, the town of Charan Kanoa became visible.Heavy close support ships were ordered not to approach closer than 1,500 yards from the reef. Two old battleships, two cruisers, and seven destroyers were assigned the duty of last-minute preparation of the landing beaches themselves. At dawn these ships took station and shortly thereafter the two battleships commenced main battery fire at the beach defenses.
Shores of Guadalcanal. Becalmed upon the sea of Thought,
They died in their glory, surrounded by fame,
The Psalm of Life....HWLTell me not, in mournful numbers,
Life is but an empty dream! ?
For the soul is dead that slumbers,
And things are not what they seem.
Life is real! Life is earnest!
And the grave is not its goal;
Dust thou art, to dust returnest,
Was not spoken of the soul.
Not enjoyment, and not sorrow,
Is our destined end or way;
But to act, that each to-morrow
Find us farther than to-day.
Art is long, and Time is fleeting,
And our hearts, though stout and brave,
Still, like muffled drums, are beating
Funeral marches to the grave.
In the world's broad field of battle,
In the bivouac of Life,
Be not like dumb, driven cattle!
Be a hero in the strife!
Trust no Future, howe'er pleasant!
Let the dead Past bury its dead!
Act,--act in the living Present!
Heart within, and God o'erhead!
Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time;
Footprints, that perhaps another,
Sailing o'er life's solemn main,
A forlorn and shipwrecked brother,
Seeing, shall take heart again.
Let us, then, be up and doing,
With a heart for any fate;
Still achieving, still pursuing,
Learn to labor and to wait.
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