A Model Parishioner

If I remember it correctly, it was March 12, 1996 when Barangay 170, our barangay, welcomed La Muerte de San Jose (The Death of St Joseph) statue. During those times, the statue would stay overnight in the barangay before it is brought back to church and then moved to another barangay. This was part of the parish's 9-day preparation to celebrate the Solemnity of St Joseph on March 19.  The statue stayed in the porch of the Barangay Chairman's house facing Rotonda (roundabout). 

That evening, I joined my mother and other residents in saying prayers before the revered statue. I wasn't able to stay overnight because I have my thesis oral defense the following day.

The next day, as I was waiting for a jeepney in Rotonda, I walked past where the statue was located. No one was keeping vigil before the statue, except Tita Laling. She was dozing off. I approached and asked for her blessing. She told me that she was looking after the statue. I felt bad leaving her alone, but I explained to her my defense that afternoon and she understood. Days later, she was a proud aunt singing my praises for successfully completing my defense.

This was not the only instance that I saw Tita Laling's dedication to the Church. In my early teens, I would join her in attending Mass during first Saturdays. Together with her confreres in the Daughters of Mary Immaculate (DMI), she would serve as one of the collectors during Mass. She was also active in the Catholic Women's League (CWL). There were no airs and graces in Tita Laling. She used to tell me that all she wants was to serve. 

She would greet parishioners regardless if they were clergy or laity, presidents of parish organizations or ordinary members. I think, her humility and benevolence has made her earn the respect of her peers. I was happy when she became Regent of DMI (1986-87) and President of CWL (early 2000s). She wasn't bothered with the role she has to perform in church. For me, she was a model parishioner. 

A few days ago, the parish lost one of its humble members. It happened at a time when churches have suspended public celebration of the Mass and closed its doors due to the Coronavirus. Indeed, it is a challenging time for all of us who look forward to receive the Eucharist at least every weekend. It is a time of tribulation for those of us who see the parish as "home next to home". It's tempting to lose faith, isn't it? When these things come to mind, I think of Tita Laling alone in the presence of La Muerte de San Jose. Amidst the hustle and bustle in Rotonda 24 years ago, there was my aunt, at peace in the presence of the statue of the dying St Joseph being consoled by Jesus and Mary. 

Tita Laling, thank you for being such a loving aunt to me and my siblings. You have been such a strong pillar for the Christian community of Gagalangin. Pray that we will remain steadfast in faith. Rest now in God's healing presence, united with Mary Immaculate and St Joseph! We love you.

To my cousins, nephews, nieces, and their families, my heart goes out to you during this time of sorrow.

Tito Ponso

He was a respected resident in the neighborhood, no wonder he was elected for a number of years as a barangay councilor. He was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus as well as the Special Minister of Holy Communion. He was our family dentist. he was my uncle, the late Dr Alfonso "Tito Ponso" Esquillo Sr.

I enjoyed the conversations I had with Tito Ponso, be it the parish, politics, or the nitty-gritty of serving in the barangay. When I was elected Barangay Kagawad in 1997, I learned a lot from such seasoned kagawad. Listening to his explanation of legislation in simple terms, I thought to myself "Dapat nag-abogado si Tito Ponso!" (Tito Ponso should have been a lawyer!). Unfortunately, some of his sensible proposals for the barangay fell on ears that have become deaf due to partisan politics.

He was also a man of prayer. When all barangay officials of Manila gathered in Baguio City for a training seminar, we councilors from Barangay 170 stayed in 1 room. In the morning, while other roommates were busy fixing themselves or watching the television, Tito Ponso was sat in one corner reading his prayer book. On the lighter side, when our seminar was over and we had plenty of time before boarding for Manila, he persuaded us to go visit places in the Pine City such as Mines View Park, Burnham Park, etc.

A silent type of person, he was a great family man. Together with his wife Tita Laling, they looked after their children and grandchildren. At home, I would see him either cooking or bringing/fetching a grandchild to/from school. I would bump into him in the bakery across the road on a few early mornings to buy hot pan de sal. I have also felt a fatherly concern from him when he personally corrected me about a misdemeanor. 

What touched me most about Tito Ponso was how he cared for Tita Laling, especially in her old age. In my latest visit to them, she was already bedridden. And Tito Ponso was there by her side, tending to her. In spite of his own illness, he was her strength. The words of the marriage vows - "For better or for worse, in sickness and in health..." - ring a bell. 

His passing away last Tuesday came as a shock. He will be sorely missed. His life and lessons always to be cherished.  Salamat po, Tito Ponso. May God bless your kind soul.

My heart goes out to Tita Laling, cousins, nephews and nieces in this time of bereavement.

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!

Baby Time

Last Monday was Nidz's birthday so I thought of booking some days off from the office just to be with her and Chiara. I was off Friday last week (until this Monday) so Nidz has a time for herself doing some shopping while I was at home looking after the baby. Having put the baby to sleep, I decided to do some household chores and some editing (I was expecting some work to be e-mailed to me then). As I was editing, I was praying hard that Chiara won't suddenly wake up (She does sometimes have a rather short nap in the day.). Article 1 went through the editing mill smoothly plus some feedback 'session' with one of our staff writers. "Jolly good!" I told myself having finished those so I decided to proceed to Article 2. As I was in the middle of doing it, I heard a familiar sound emanating from the room next to where I was working. It was Chiara crying with all her might. I attempted to give her the pacifier, but to no avail. No choice, but to carry her.

I tried my best to put her on my lap, holding her with my left hand and typing with my right hand. At first she would behave, but having sensed that I was engrossed with another thing, she would cry (She hates computers except when you log on to YouTube and let her listen to "Old MacDonald had a farm".). So I would have to stand and bring her  near the window and point to her the Maternity Unit of the City Hospital saying: "D'yan ka pinanganak." (That's where you were born). We'll then come back to the desk in the hope that she'll let me finish what I'm doing. I managed though after several sit-stand-sit moments. But there's that breaking point when I would need to turn the computer off.

I still remembered what Nidz was telling me when she was pregnant about how life would be more challenging when the baby arrives. I keep on telling her that it would be exciting!

Indeed it is more challenging. Sleeping patterns for me and my better half has been affected (A cousin who also had a child once told me to forget sleep.). Eating meals too can sometimes be on your own. Things that you could spend so much time on like chatting and surfing the net now have to be done sparingly.

Times have changed, but no complaints though. Here's a much, much, much important one to look after. Spending more time with her (and her mom, of course!) and going that extra mile is absolutely bliss! Whenever she smiles at you, your heart will truly melt. This experience is being shared by fellow parishioners (including the cloistered Poor Clare sisters) who saw her last Sunday.

As for me and Nidz, we stood there ever thankful and blessed parents as can be.

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Speaking about being thankful, I am very grateful for all the love and dedication Nidz has unconditionally showered on our little angel. She has become, for me, a Super Mom on all counts.

Well done, Labs! Here's to a long and meaningful life together!

I love you and Chiara very, very, very much!

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Happy Golden Wedding Anniversary to Tito Ponso and Tita Laling Esquillo on Sunday, 8th March! Spending 50 years together is indeed an achievement! Well done to you both!

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On the 10th of March we begin our Novena in honour of St Joseph whose feast is on the 19th. Since becoming a dad, I now begin to relate more myself with this great man often asking his prayers that I too may look after my wife and child with that same love he had when he took care of Mama Mary and Jesus.