ON SEPTEMBER 21 this year, I would have existed for six decades and six years and so I take this opportunity to write about my "checkered" life's ordeals, stops, frustrations and everything. I could say I have given much as I have, sharing with others who have less, knowing fully well, I, too, had occasions to beg sans palms outstretched and used every cell in my brain to come up with articles gratuitously remunerated and which proceeds I used to raise a big brood of dependent souls.
Now on my more than six decades of challenging existence, I give ample thanks to Him who so patiently co-piloted my arduous journey, to several benefactors who graciously gave at my mere presence at their gates and to my siblings Perry and Mely, the former unselfishly handing me some amounts to tide me over, proclaiming albeit silently, that I am not heavy, cuz I am his brother, and to Mely and her supportive husband, now Councilor Eddie, who both understand my predicament whenever I visited them on Sundays.
I have benefactors in Mayor Boking Morales and Jun Magbalot, the latter silently chastising me whenever the contents of my columns do not suit his countenance, and of course, the former, who carried me in my direst need, although sometimes he plays very elusive as the wilest deer. He once quippied: I want to be a river to my people and so he makes it a point that funds are ready for solicitors every week.
I owe Sun.Star Pampanga, thru GM Jun Sula and head honcho, Levi P. Laus, much gratitude for the trust they bestowed me in allowing a space for my column every Monday and Friday. The mental exercise in meeting deadlines allow me to make use of whatever creative matter is left in my brain which is, according to Mayor Boking, housed inside a large head.
My thanks also go to Mayors Ed Pamintuan and Romy Pecson for their warm and instant recognition of my work and their generous words of encouragement. Ditto with Dr. Oscar R. Aurelio and wife May who, according to her, both do a regular reading of my columns.
Another reader I'd like to thank is Alex Dy Reyes, that incisive former HR officer at Tipco and now a regular businessman. To all my readers, including the erudite Rosan Paquia, Mabalacat City hall administrator (including his brother Robert who reads me from California!) and LGOO Naty Dungca who is moving elsewhere to a new post, maraming salamat. All of you have made my travel easier and hassle-free! Thanks also to Engr. Bien Mateo of SM and mall managers for their accommodations.
Of course, I have to mention of the Peso Mabalacat staff who've stuck with me through these years (they have no choice, anyway, ha ha): Virgie Miranda, Alma Pontillas, Emmit Jarin, Jay Pereña and Irish Mendoza. All of them acknowledge my still being their Chief Coordinator. They have to bear with me as I have perhaps more years to linger on before they say: Good riddance!