HONOR Thy Father and Thy Mother – this Fifth Commandment was fulfilled by the sons and daughters of the late Francisco Romero and Paz Cruz. All in all, hold your breath – they have 12 children, seven of whom graduated from the premier teaching institution, Philippine Normal University.

The eldest daughter Alegria became the first teacher. She specialized in Library Science and was the longest serving librarian of the Solicitor General’s Office.

The eldest son, Rene was the second teacher. A “dyed in the wool” Capampangan, he is a retired educator of the Philippine Normal University where he served invariably as a professor, Dean of the Social Science Department, Director for Extension and International Linkages and Assistant to the President for Special Projects. On the side, he also served as Unesco's National Coordinator for the Association of School Projects (Aspet) for twelve years.

The third teacher in the family joined the Carmelite Nuns where she was elected as Mother Superior stationed in Betis, Guagua, Pampanga.

The fourth teacher in the family is a magna cum laude graduate who became a much-sought lecturer of the Department of Education and Culture especially during the time of Secretary Andrew Gonzales. He was a Values Education Supervisor of Pampanga where she left an indelible mark. She is an inspirational speaker.

The fifth teacher in the family is likewise a magna cum laude graduate. She was a beauty and brain. She is the wife of Engr. Ferdinand Caylao and the mother of Atty. Christian and Dr. Caloy, among others. She was the respected and well-loved Principal of the Pampanga High School. It is unfortunate that she succumbed to the Big C on November 15, 2021.

The sixth teacher in the family is Aida. She loved teaching that she is married to the profession. She is happy about her retirement.

The seventh teacher in the family is Aileen. She opted to run the family candy business.

The other members of this extraordinary family are:

Cecille went to the United States to pursue her American dream.

Guy was a kindly gentleman who is watching from heaven together with their parents.

Mario is connected with the Department of Trade where he is set to retire.

Ricky is on top of his career as a company executive.

The Cruz-Romero family has been awarded “Outstanding Family” by the PNU Alumni Association. They call Malpitic, San Fernando, as their place of abode. The City of San Fernando honors itself when it honors the Cruz-Romero siblings.