I AM 73 years old. Life expectancy for Filipino males is 66 years old. That means I am enjoying a seven year bonus and counting.
It's time to count my blessings, since it is the start of the year.
1. Every day is a bonus. When I wake up at 5 a.m., I prepare to water my plants in my little farm and feed my pets – nine dogs, ten chickens, four ducks and a native pig.
2. At 7:30, I prepare for my job as the Acting City Administrator. Apart from providing food on the table, I am happy to be consulted by the Mayor and work in harmony with chief of offices.
3. I still can ascend the stairs without cane nor any help from other persons. I can still walk one to two kilometers in the company of my friends, at least once a week (Saturday).
4. That I count on my reliable and permanent friends. This year, I lost Phillip Mendoza, a friend of more than 35 years. I still enjoy conversing with Bill Tiqui. I engage in actual discussion on law with Jesse Caguiat. I look forward to breaking bread with Fer Caylao. I enjoy the cooking of Bong Manalo on weekends. In special occasions, I meet my retired friend, Rene Romero (58 years of friendship) and Freddie Lacap (67 years of friendship). Of course, I laughed at the story telling skills of my boss, Edwin Santiago.
5. In the year 2013, we organized a group – 69ers. All the nine pioneer members are above and approaching 69 years old; hence, the monicker. Two leading members have joined their Creator – Ferdie Mangalino and Julie Duldulao. Fernando Mangalino was a labor leader and June Duldulao was a skilled gardener. I still look up to Romy Santos and Fred Julian as friends forever. Ric Trajano is not exactly healthy as his memory seems to have deserted him.
6. I am ecstatic to have enjoyed practice of law with associates – Atty. Dading Rongcal, Tony Yumul and Santi Beltran. Dading is the “diligent father of the family” who takes care of his kins and friends. Tony is willing to risk his life for friendship sake. Santi deserved to be a judge and is dispensing justice in a Zambales court.
7. Every Tuesday, Dante Gutierrez treats his friends to lunch and much more – in his house-bodega. He has enjoyed the company of the most beautiful women including beauty queens and actresses. Dante is a friend you cherish, especially when you’re “in crisis”.
8. Looking back – in the 70’s, I taught in elementary grades where Leonardo Espina, Sigfrid Fortun and Nestor Tan were my pupils. I never imagined that Espina became a general (Chief of PNP); I thought that Sigfrid would be a lawyer; but not the most sought after lawyer of the country. I am proud to claim that Nestor Tan (the President of Banco de Oro) was my student in Grade VI.
9. I was orphaned by the demise of Eligio (Yong) Ibay. He was my buddy when I still wore short pants. He was a good man and was privileged to grow up with him and his family.
10. Hector Manansala was the spouse of my auntie, Herminia. I used to visit him in California. I was recipient of his kindness and going to America is not as enjoyable anymore when he succumbed to cardiac arrest.
Every passing day, I am reminded of the events that are pleasant to recall among my friends who departed. For those of us who are left behind, we continue to bask in the sun and enjoy the continuous blessings of friendship.