Tita Laling

When we moved back from Cavite to Tondo in 1986, it didn't take us that long to settle in our new environment. We knew quite a few people in the neighbourhood since we have often been in that place previously. Besides, our grandparents lived in that same village, Barangay 170. One of the people who made us feel welcome are the Esquillo Family, particularly the clan's matriarch, Pilar Estavillo-Esquillo.

Tita Laling, as we fondly call her, is a niece of Lolo Paul.  She, her husband Tito Ponso, and their four children live just a callejon (alley) away from our home.  She used to be a pharmacist at St Rita Hospital while Tito Ponso was the School Dentist. Both have been active parishioners of Gagalangin - Tita Laling was Regent of the Daughters of Mary Immaculate and President of the Catholic Women's League while Tito Ponso is a member of the Knights of Columbus and was a Special Minister of Holy Communion.  They were also affiliated with the Lions Clubs International.

Tita Laling and her family lived a simple life.  I must say that she didn't have any airs whatsoever.  Like my mom, she was another teacher in Humility 101.  Every time we pray the Rosary, I would notice her bowing when the 'Glory to the Father...' is said.  Her gesture struck me, making me realize that if we want to praise and honour God we have to humble ourselves. If we want God to be at the centre of our lives we need to be humble.  I have copied my aunt's example.

She once related to us a story when she participated in a group sharing (in church) and, filled with the Spirit, she said something like "Kapag ibinabababa ako ng ibang tao, itinataas ako ng Diyos." (Whenever people humiliate me, I am being exalted by God).  True, Tita Laling wasn't spared from such situations and yet she never complained.  She sought prayer; she served the community.

Apart from humility, Tita Laling is also known for her generosity.   One time, she saw Mama and told her that she had some rice (a sack perhaps).  "Hati tayo! (Let's share!), she told my mother.   We have always been welcome to their house and vice-versa.  It was fun to be in their house especially when their grandchildren started to increase.  Sometimes, we would offer to look after some of her apos.

During the Barangay election in 1997, she was a proud wife and aunt because both Tito Ponso and I won in the elections as Barangay Kagawad.  In the elections five years later, she was my first phone caller consoling me in my lost.  At first, I didn't show much appreciation for her gesture.  My pride was hurt.  And yet, she repeatedly spoke "Anak (Son), let God's will be done". It took a while before I got in touch with her again. 

When I was about to leave for the UK ten years ago, I phoned her up to say farewell.  I thought she would hang up on me, but no, she was the same loving aunt that I knew of.  So happy was she for me that she went along with Mama, my brother Gio, and my 2 nephews Guian and Luigi to accompany me to the airport.  

Every time I went home, I make it a point to visit her. The last time I did, in 2010, she was ill.  As I approached her bed, she recognised me! I am keen to see her in my next visit soon.

Looking at her life, I could see how God's enduring love guided her through the many ups and downs she has to face.  Indeed, "You cannot put a good (wo)man down"!  

Maligayang happy birthday, Tita Laling!  I'm very grateful for the love, care, and good example you showed us.  You are a source of inspiration for me to remain humble in spite of the many achievements in life; to be generous without counting the cost; to nurture one another since we are one family.  May the good Lord whom you have faithfully served bless you. May Mary, Our Lady of the Pillar, whose feast is celebrated on your natal day, intercede for you. Thank you. We love you!