At Peace

 

(My father and former web columnist has passed away on 29 April 2025. I am sharing with you the eulogy I delivered during the final viewing of his remains in Edmond, Oklahoma, USA on 3 May 2025.)

Each of us has lost a father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend in our beloved Mario. And as he lay asleep in the blessed hope of the Resurrection, I remember how he told us when we were kids to respect someone who is asleep: Kung ayaw mong matulog, magpatulog ka. I once disobeyed this house rule and was smacked accordingly.

As Papa lays asleep, let us allow him to sleep in peace. To do this, I am reminded of some advice he once told me: rise to the occasion. In those moments of unforgiveness, we rise to forgive. In times of despair, we rise to hope. In times of need, we rise to reach out.

I have not received any sign from Papa since his passing, but listening to your stories and relating with you, I realize that you are his signs for me. Recently, Emmy Garon, wife of the late Bob Garon, wrote to say that she will never, ever forget Papa. He did something which he never expected will save thousands and thousands of lives who were addicted to drugs. To this day, what he implemented in DARE is now the official method of rehabilitation in the Philippines. 

Papa has made a difference in our lives. We too are called to make a difference in the lives of the people around us. Doing so, Papa would be at peace.

Thank you, Gio and Marcia, for welcoming Papa into your home. Thank you, Tita Meddy and Tito Teddy, for being there for Papa when he was so ill. You stayed by his side as long as he needed you. Thank you, Gio’s friends for accepting Papa as part of your families. He spent the last years of his life enjoying the warmth and love that you showered him. I am pretty much sure that he will put a good word for you all when he meets the Lord.

We just recited a Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Before Papa passed away, Tita Meddy prayed this beautiful devotion with some of the family around him. Tito Teddy told me that when the fourth decade was recited, Papa’s countenance became peaceful. The next time you recite the Chaplet, please remember Papa in your prayers.

On behalf of my siblings and our families, as well as the Valdes-Albano Clan, thank you for being with us in these difficult times. God bless.