A few hours before Christmas Eve

This is how our Greenhome looks on the night before Christmas.




It is Christmas clutter at our greenhome that will help spread good cheer to families and friends.


It is a few hours before Christmas and am scribbling these holiday cheer from our kitchen. From where I seat, the street across our Legazpi Greenhome is empty. Not a single car is parked. The windows of the call center at the building across are closed. The blinds cover any activity going on. Guess, none. Only a couple of cars are parked in the parking area below.


Earlier, I quickly passed by Don Bosco to pick up desk calendars with artworks of Joey Velasco. (Photo of Joey Velasco besides his famous painting from http://joeyvelasco.com) Joey received the 2008 Blessed Philip Rinaldi Servant Leader award. I had written about his work in Code RED, which was publsihed last December 2007. He received the award last December 6 during the 9th Asia-Australia Congress of Past Pupils of Don Bosco program held in Pampanga.

Guess, it was really God’s plan to allow me to catch up with Fr. Armand Robleza, SBD. Earlier, from work I called and talked to Madz Nayve to make reservation for those calendars. She told me that she would just leave the calendars and extra copies of the current issue of Code RED at the reception. I knew that I wasn’t going to make it earlier at Don Bosco because of work.

Yup, I am still working through this day as I needed to get a draft proposal read by client soonest. Plus, a couple of publicity materials out for CITEM. Work cut into our planned visit to Greg’s place for the annual “Cotyfest” in honor of Tita Coty Cobangbang. We missed that event last year as Chief and I were in the States and now, we are missing it again due to work.

Anyway, back to Fr. Armand. He was preparing to leave the compound and visit his mom and family in Antipolo for noche buena. We did get to talk for a few minutes, updating him on the challenges and concern Grace and Max were having for their new baby, Zak, who has been in and out of the hospital. And we talked about our parents and their relationship with their children.

Plus, about the rush for shopping. “They have their own way of packing and preparing gifts,” says Fr. Armand. He is referring to wives and how husbands like me get out of the way of their wives during Christmas shopping.

The only shopping I did this season are the calendars by Joey Velasco and the Swatch I got for Chief last Sunday.

Happy holidays everyone!

Coffee at Chateau 1771

Earlier, Chief and I caught up with Bingo and Mila Pantaleon at Greenbelt 5. Manny Gabutina and his son, Jag, dropped us off at Greenbelt where Chief and I could have dinner. Actually, we were just tamad to cook and prepare food at home. We still had paksiw na lechon at home. But really, just tamad. Hehehe. And besides, it was a couple of days before Christmas eve and I felt tonight was the rare night Chief and I would have together this season as reunions lie ahead for the next few days.

We ended up at Le Maison in Greenbelt 5. It was a little crowded. And the “macho chops” I ordered had run out. Huh? Albert, the waiter explained that the last piece had been ordered. Huh? He gave a recommendation but I opted for calamari (friend squid). It was little too "cracked" meaning a little too breaded... that it had sharp corners and service from the corner where we sat a little to slow. But still a good place to dine. Anyway, am not a food critic. This was our second time here. Our first dining experience was last August... my birthday.

Into our dinner, we both get text messages from Bingo and Mila… asking if we were free for coffee? That was perfect timing and advised them that we were just in Le Maison having dinner. Around 9pm, both were standing in front of us.

It was great to see good friends again!

We moved to Chateau 1771 for coffee and desserts. Mila noticed that I quickly talked to Hazel, the receptionist. I actually just mentioned to her that EON had it’s Christmas party at this restaurant only last Friday and she said that she remembered me. Actually, just PR. Chateau 1771 in Greenbelt 5 and is open until 11 p.m. for dinner on Fridays and Saturdays. For inquiries, ask for Hazel but dont mention my name. You can call 729-9760 or 0917-862-6467. One day soon, I would like to taste their grilled king prawns. Photos from www.3mddigitalsolutions.com/chateau


Mila proudly showed off pictures from Unilab’s anniversary “Warrior” event. Both she and Bingo were wearing Indonesian inspired costumes. Both shared kuwentos about the parade that showcased its heritage and growth. Symbolic items like the first cash register, the first Unilab product package, etc. was passed on to the current leaders of the company.

It quickly brought back memories of how our own friendship grew since those days back in Saigon, when Chief was with McCann Erickson Vietnam and Bingo was Marketing Director of United Pharma.

Today, we hope to visit them in Jakarta next year but for now, also hope to catch up with Maribel Regino.

After coffee, Chief and I walked home while both rushed to Rockwell for last minute midnight shopping.

Waffles at Flapjacks

It is the last weekend before Christmas.

Last Saturday night, Chief was busy… busy packing and wrapping gifts for families, relatives and friends. I met up with Chief at Greenbet 1 where she bought some gift bags at National Book Store.

Later, she wanted to have merienda at Flapjacks. This restaurant in Greenblet holds beautiful memories for Chief and I, as well as my cousins, who were here from the East Coast last June 2008. Photo shows Renelle, Ben and Patrick, and their mom, Tita Nenen, and Cecile and Gil, and Fritzi Pilar.

Actually, only she had merienda, which was really a late lunch for her. She had eggs and corned beef. Me? Just waffles but my order of waffles never came as their machine “broke down.”

Chief said that waffles and pancakes was supposedly their “core competency.” And how could that happen? We got a little disappointed as the waitress, Jen, didn’t even bother to inform us that my order would be taking extra long or wouldn’t be served at all. It was until Tom, who had greeted us earlier, advised us that the waffle machine was not working and offered a replacement. Huh? Chief had nearly finished her food.

So, we paid the bill and before we could raise our complaint to the next level, Tom had offered three pancakes for free. Good PR really but they should advice Jen to be a little more sensitive to customers. After all, there were only two couples when we were there and that really is not much work. Maybe, she was rushing out through her shift to get some Xmas shopping done?

I told Tom as we were leaving, “May utang ka sa akin na waffles.” And they greeted us Merry Christmas!

Pacquiao Quick Facts

Am sure many families stayed at home last Sunday to watch Pacquiao defeat dela Joya. And with his win, even a few more parents named their babies Manny or even Pacquiao. And his success gives more meaning to Filipino pride.

Here are some quick facts about his recent win, specially, his presence on HBO.

1. According to HBO, the fight at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas generated about 1.25 million pay-per-view buys.

2. It is only the fourth time a non-heavyweight bout in the US reached at least one million. Interesting to note that Oscar De La Hoya has been in the ring in all the four fights.

3. Pacquiao will get an estimated gross amount worth $11.2 million or P548.8 million from the above earnings. Can you imagine how many poor families that amount can feed for one year?

4. Pacquiao’s previous pay-per-view high was 405,000 buys registered last April in his rematch against Juan Manuel Marquez.

5. It is his birthday on December 17! He is turning 30.

6. Guess who gave him a carrot cake decorated with a red boxing glove and a green boxing belt with the inscription "World’s No. 1 Pound-for-Pound Fighter."

7. He has the World Boxing Council (WBC) Flyweight, International Boxing Federation Super Bantamweight, WBC Super Featherweight, and WBC Lightweight world titles. And the first Asian to do it!

8. He lost to incumbent Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio, when he ran as congressman in South Cotabato’s first district in 2007. I hope he doesn’t make his presence in politics. He only be used by “trapos.”

9. His first name is Emmanuel.

10. He rode a 22-foot float for a motorcade-parade in General Santos City

Steps in Bohol

On our first day in Tagbilaran, Bohol last 31 October one of our first stops is the site of the blood compact between the Spanish king conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi and Filipino native of Bohol, Datu Sikatuna.

The blood compact between the two leaders happened in 1564 or 1565 (different dates based on which book one reads), when Spain dispatched more expeditions to set colonies in the Far East. Remember, the Spaniards were competing against the Portuguese.


One of the expeditions, led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi reached the Philippines in the beginning of 1565, and established a Spanish settlement. He tried to land Cebu but was thwarted. To make the long historical story short… he met up two chiefs of Bohol, Datu Sikatuna of Bool and Datu Sigala of Loboc. He convinced (or misled) the leaders that they came in peace.

Termed in Spanish as “pacto de sangre,” a blood compact is an ancient custom or ritual where two people drink each other's blood to seal a friendship, a pact or treaty.

And on 16 March 1565 (or 25 March?) Legazpi and Sikatuna undertook the now famous blood compact. Today, this in Bohol every year as "One Blood" festival.

For me and Chief, our “blood compact” started last 05 November 2001 when we took the steps of our lives at Ho Chi Minh City and was blessed by Fr. Pads. The compact will last until all future becomes past. But no blood involved.

The steps to Bohol are part of our 7th year blessing.

Teriyaki and Nuggets

Am home alone this weekend. Chief is spending the weekend at her home in Cavite. Me? Thesis sessions with my CFAD students tomorrow and some blogging tonight. And will watch the anniversary episode of “Bubble Gang.” Hehe.

Manny picked up Chief at our Greenhome in the heart of Legazpi Village. They dropped me off at McDonald’s Greenbelt 1 where am now having dinner. Having Chicken Nuggets and Spaghetti and Coke Zero, without ice, inside the “Hamburger Room” here at McDonald’s. But the lights are much brighter here to get some online work done.

Really would have wanted to eat at Teriyaki Boy tonight, but Chief and I have eaten there lately… most recently, last night. Like before, I got Ika Fry... really just deep-fried squid. Guess, we just miss having lunch at our favorite “Sushi Bar” a Japanese restaurant in Saigon, where one could have unlimited miso soup. At Teriyaki Boy a cup costs 40 pesos. We would rather buy the frozen soup at a Japanese store at Waltermart. Hehe.

I know I have not seen Chief’s parents for the past couple of months nor have visited my own mom for the past few weeks. Work should really not be a reason to spend time with our parents. Really do need a better work and life balance. Plus, exercise too!

But by Sunday morning, I promised to take Chief out for a date.

Happy birthday Minnie

Yesterday was the birthday of my youngest sister, Minnie. She is now living and working in Alberta, Canada. She moved out of our home in BF Paranaque to pursue a career and some independence.

In the summer of 2005, Minnie visited us in Saigon and was able to meet up with Patrick Velez. Both have not seen each other since the 70s. It was a reunion for both cousins. Maybe, next time Patrick and Minnie will meet in the Big Apple and watch the “Lion King” on Broadway.

Or maybe, Chief and I get to visit my sister in Alberta?

Until then, happy birthday loving sister!

Presence Lost in 9/11

Nearly the presence of 3,000 men, women and children were lost in 2001 when four commercial planes attacked different locations in the United States. Today, those events are called 9/11.

Chief and I were in our 1st Greenhome at Tran Nhat Duat, District 1, Ho Chi MInh City when CNN broke the news that the World Trade Center had crumbled to the ground, the Pentagon had been attacked and a third plane crashed in the fields.

We had just returned from work and couldn’t believe what was happening across the United States. We quickly thought of our cousins who were based in New York City and stayed up all night glued to CNN.

Much have been written about the men and women who died that day, specially the members of FDNY and NYPD. Documentaries and even a movie had been made in their memory. Am sure more entries in thousands of blogs on-line have paid tribute to these heroes.

Yes, the passengers American Airlines Flight 11, United Airlines Flight 175, American Airlines Flight 77 and United Airlines Flight 93 are among these heroes, together with the other men and women on the ground and the buildings struck by these planes.

They represented over 90 nationalities across the world. Even today, people, including rescue workers suffer from lung disease brought about by extended exposure to dust from the WTC rubble.

West Side Story

Last Sunday afternoon, Chief and I went to watch the local version of “West Side Story.” I really don’t remember watching the 1961 movie version with Natalie Wood
Richard Beymer and Rita Moreno. But I do remember that Fr. James Reuter, SJ had done versions of this popular Broadway production in St. Paul College, QC. I think Nano Regalado, a Mass Comm student, played Maria.

But this Sunday afternoon, Chief and I were watching this production with mom and Miguel. We had gotten four tickets, courtesy of Jeannie Javelosa. She was also taking her parents to watch this play, but unfortunately, we didn’t see her at Meralco Theatre.

Personally, I had mom go with us as she really needed to be brought out of the house and enjoy life more. Work had been tying me down lately, even on weekends and I wanted to spend more time with my mom. Dad had died in June 2001 while Chief and I were in Vietnam. Plus, spend time with Miguel too.

I had told Miguel to wear jeans as initially he was wearing shorts. Hehehe. I told him that it was a formal program, with people dressed up for the event. When we got to the lobby, I said, “Tignan mo iyon mga tao… walang naka shorts.” Really just to emphasize what I told him earlier. In fact, Cecile also asked me to wear a shirt with collar. Hehehe.


West Side Story is a musical collaboration of Leonard Bernstein (music), and Stephen Sondheim (lyrics). Did you know that it was based on William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet?

The story tells the rivalry of two gangs in Manhattan’s West Side during the mid-50s. I think it was specifically set in Hell’s Kitchen? Not sure. But my cousin, Patrick, had brought Cecile and I around that block when we were in the Big Apple last December 2007.

Won’t tell the love story of Tony (played by Christian Bautista) and Maria or the tragic ending. Ironically, some of the audience laughed towards the end as they heard the sound effect of gun shot.

Probably the most popular song out of this musical is “Maria.” I whispered to Miguel that he should take note of this song. As the musical moved forward, we heard other songs like "America," "Somewhere," "Tonight," “Cool” and "I Feel Pretty." I remember I heard Jack Nickolson hum that tune in the 2003 movie "Anger Management."

The 1957 Broadway production ran for 732 performances and earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Musical. “The Music Man” eventually went to get that award in 1957. It did win an award for choreography.

In 1961, a movie version was directed by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins. Did you know that Robbins, who directed the stage version, was fired because the movie’s budget had gone overboard? Still, the film won 10 Academy Awards including Best Picture.

This local stage version probably won’t win any awards or get a lot of praises, but it would surely help strengthen the ties between parents and children who shared the music and the story of Tony and Maria. I know Miguel will look back years from now and probably hum one of the tunes from West Side Story.

Mom's Long Weekend

It was a long weekend. Supposedly to celebrate the martyrdom of Benigno Aquino. It is sometimes hard to accept a celebration which actually not celebrated on the day it happened. But celebration or not, hardworking men and women would gladly take any holiday. And this long weekend, mom, Violet, Miguel, Chief and I went out to Angeles City, Pampanga to visit Tita Celia.

I only pushed Shaq up to around 120 kph. Couldn’t push him more as family was riding with me and there had been slight drizzle.

We arrived in Angeles City around 11am and Tita Celia was waiting out in the porch. We were all surprised to see her, as she had been bed-ridden for the past months. She had recovered very well. Praises to God!

Tita Celia’s eldest daughter, Baby, had prepared lunch. Shrimps and fried chicken and sinigang. Nothing fancy but hot and filling for everyone at the dining table.

Two of mom’s cousins had joined us for this trip. It was sort of a homecoming for the two senior ladies. All through the drive, we could hear “kapangpangan” words and I know that my mom felt extra good using her native dialect. Nobody at home really picked up to learn “kapangpangan.” And I knew she had been looking forward to this long weekend with Chief and myself.

One of them really reminds us of Love Abergas, Olwen’s mom, who at her age, looks and acts and speaks like a young teenage lady. This year she is turning a milestone. 70.

Will Chief and I get lucky to make a U.S. trip in December? Maybe?

The Biggest Laughs

Tonight, we shared the biggest laughs at Granwood Villas as friends got together to celebrate friendship and family. Cesar and Amvic Pareja. Jeanette and Resty Reyes. Matess Salviejo. Jeff Enriquez. Rommel and Madelaine Cecilio. Alain Carag. Bob Novales (minus Monch who is currently in New Jersey) Bong Lopez. And Chief and myself... plus the guest of honor, Olwen Abergas, shared laughs and cup cakes!


Photo shows Matess, Marivic and Olwen (and what is left of callos and Coke) laughing as Cesar "talks to a house" in Puerto Galera. Many years ago, we all went to Puerto Galera for a weekend. Years before the Parejas were parents.

Photo shows Jeanette and Alain laughing as they review pictures taken from Olwen's Sony digital camera.

47

Just turned 47. Wow... nearing the 50th milestone. But for this weekend, am just enjoying the fluffy linen and pillows at Makati Shnagrila Hotel, Room 1519 with Chief.

Saying Goodbye

The Velez cousins at St. Peter's Cathedral after saying goodbye to Tito Rene.


The relatives and friends of Tita Nenen also came to say goodbye to Tito Rene.

Miguel and EJ at Sonya's Garden

It was back in the mid-90s when Miguel and EJ first met up with each other. Renelle, Edgar and EJ had made a trip to the Philippines and had lunch at our home.

Fast forward to 2008 and EJ and Miguel meet up again. Now, a few pounds heavier and inches taller. Miguel is now in first year high school and EJ has probably given up collecting trains and now plays soccer? Or maybe, baseball?

Here are pictures as they goof and play around in Sonya’s Garden, where the cousins and Tita Nenen and my mom shared a sumptuous lunch.

Hidden among the hills past Tagaytay, Sonya’s Garden gives rest and quiet to many tired and hardworking professionals (like Chief and I) to enjoy the garden and the food… and the open space.

For many balikbayan families, Sonya’s Garden is a memorable place to visit and experience the cuisine of organically grown vegetables and ingredients, all served fresh everyday. Plus, bottomless dalandan juice and turon (my favorite)

While Miguel and EJ would have probably preferred McChicken... for now, they will share pasta and salad with us, Renelle, Benjamin, Patrick, Violet, Chief and I!

Cousins Presence in Tagaytay

Will soon scribble stories of our family's visit to Sonya's Garden in Tagaytay, actually, in Batangas already, last Sunday.

TIto Rene coming home

Tito Rene is coming home. On Tuesday, his ashes will be brought back by my cousins, Renelle, Benjamin and Patrick and their mom. It is a homecoming as it had been his wish to be buried here in the Philippines. Fortunately, Cecile and I still had a chance to talk to him and see him smile when we visited the US last December.

He moved on a few weeks ago. I always use the word “move on” whenever a love one passes away because I believe they really never leave us. Always around us in our minds and hearts. My dad moved on ahead, last June 2001, when Chief and I were in Vietnam.

Am often in tears when I scribble words about him as it does bring back memories of my dad. They are brothers and I guess, by now, both are looking down upon us, also smiling and maybe, excited as their sons and daughters will be sharing a few days together in Manila.

Photo taken last January 2005 during our first visit to the States. My cousins, Renelle, Ben and Patrick with their mom and dad and me! Chief took this photo.

We miss you dad and Tito Rene!

Father's Day

Today is father’s day! And special greetings to our parents, my dad, Hector Velez, who moved on last June 2001 and Chief’s dad, Edwin Gabutina, who continues to move around the Odyssey Record Bars in search of his favorite music.

Earlier, we brought Mom and Dad Gabutina to SM Bacoor for lunch and some shopping. We arrived around 11:30am and the more popular restaurants were already packed. SRO. Max’s Restaurant. Jollibee. Gerry’s Grill. Barrio Fiesta had a couple of free tables and we quickly settled down. Chief ordered grilled squid, lechon kawali (which was really nice and tender), plus boulla baise, a seafood based soup. That was good but the management refused to give us an extra soup bowl. Could have been good PR for Barrio Fiesta?

In a few minutes, the place was packed and we were enjoying our food. Service was a little slow and disorganized. Mom’s “sago and gulaman” never arrived.

Later in the afternoon, Chief and I visited dad at the cemetery. Prayed the rosary. We noticed there were a of people today. Guess, like us, families were visiting their own dads who had moved on.

Wherever you are dad, I miss you. And love you.

Dad

Yesterday was the day my dad moved on. I miss you dad.

Champion Kids

My team and thousands of kids and parents were in Aliw Theatre and Star City today for the Kiddie Crew Event of McDonald's Philippines. These kids have learned many important values in their early life as they became part of the McDonald's crew through summer. It was also a whole day of fun and prizes... and all the excitement of the rides and games inside Star City.



Photo shows the five Champion kids who will represent McDonalds in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

45 years

Happy Anniversary to Edwin and Auring Gabutina, our parents and who have been parents for 45 years to Edwin, Cecile (my wife), Manny and Minnie. Photo shows Cecile, Dad, Juluis Gabutina, Mom Gabutina and Minnie. Seen in the background is Jag Gabutina (in a white jacket)as he walks back to Shaq.

This Anniversary date was celebrated at Antonio's Grill, Tagaytay. Manny and Vangie Gabutina brought their three kids, with Jag hitching a ride with us. Mom and Dad also rode with us.


Photo shows dad and mom enjoying lunch.


Angelo and Aileen just called from Hongkong to greet their parents. Photo shows Dad talking on the phone to Angelo.

There was a slight drizzle as we arrived in Tagaytay. One really needs to arrive before 11:30am if one wants to get seats in any restaurant here.

At Antonio's Grill, we arrived with only a few guests... that there were four waiters attending to us. But by noon, the place was full and service slowed down. The food? Hmmmmm. The boys liked the chicken. I enjoyed the crispy pata but everyone agreed that the squid was "like rubber." Mahirap kainin. We wanted crispy kangkong but they didn't have it. Why? The sisig? Dencio's and Trelli's still taste better! At least soup was hot and bottomless.

Happy 45 years to mom and dad... and Manny's "Anniversary AVP" would capture the feeling and emotion we have for our parents!

Happy Mother's Day

Photo shows Chief and myself just outside Cafe Wah in New York City last December 2003. It was our first trip to the States and we were both extra excited to be traveling to this part of the world. But today, there is a different kind of excitement for all the mothers in the world.

Yup, happy mother's day to my mom, Meya Velez, and my wife, Cecile Velez! Words are not really enough to express my appreciation for the love and affection my mom and my wife have shown and showered through the years.

Though, sometimes, they can be makulit, but I guess, it is just their way of showing they care for me.

Hector and Rene Velez

Last 18 April 2008 was my dad’s birthday! He “moved on” last June 4, 2001 while Cecile and I were still living and working in Vietnam. I could never forget the last words he told me as I left that morning in April 2001. He said, “Baka di mo na ako abutan pagbalik mo.” True enough, we received an early Monday morning call at our 1st Greenhome in Tran Nhat Duat. Dad had moved on. And the next day, I was on a flight back to Manila.

Last January 2004, during our first trip to the East Coast, Cecile and I surprised my ninong, Rene Velez (dad’s eldest brother) with a visit in New Jersey. And he was indeed surprised, even close to tears. He said to me, “Akalain mo, ditto pa tayo magkikita ulit.” A few days ago, I received a text message from Patrick asking me to call New Jersey and missed calls from Renelle. Those were more than enough signs. And true enough, I called and talked to Tita Nenen and Renelle (my cousin). He, too, had moved on.

Both brothers have “moved on” to beyond life here on earth. They are probably side by side, watching me scribble these words. Hopefully, happy and smiling that both had lived a full life with their families here.

Now, our last visit to the East Coast last December 2007 was made even more memorable as it was the last time, I would see Tito Rene smile. Even though he was sick and in bed, Cecile and I, knew that he was really more than happy to see us. I also saw tears in his eyes.

Thank you for being good parents to us, all of us, from New York to Makati.

We will miss you both!

Visiting Daet, Camarines Norte

Since Saturday morning, Miguel and I have been in Daet, Camarines Norte. We arrived here around 5am, Saturday morning via a Philtranco bus which left Pasay City Friday night. Around 8 hours by bus.

We are currently staying with Robert and Cely Pilar but will be moving out Monday morning as both would be going to Manila.

Photo shows Miguel in front of the municipal town marker.

It is Miguel's first visit in my dad's hometown or his lolo's hometown. It is homecoming to Miguel's grandfather's roots. Going around the city to meet many relatives for the first time. For me, needing to attend and get updated on dad's property agrarian issues.


Our appreciation goes to Robert and Cely Pilar for the kind and warm accommodation. Photo shows us with Tito Dasoy and Tita Ludy and Robert and Cely Pilar outside the front door of their home in Daet.

Parenting in Tagaytay

Trey Novales. Miguel Pareja. What do they have in common? They are my “inaanaks” with my best friends, Bob and Monch Novales and Cesar and Marivic Pareja. And last weekend, Chief and I had witnessed and experienced how our good friends have raised their kids as we shared a weekend at Crosswinds Tagaytay. This photo above was taken by Trey. And below, he also took a picture of his mom and dad.




Photo shows Rad and Trey and their PSP. Photo was taken by Iya Pareja. Trey took fancy with my Canon “Rebel” DSLR and snapped more pictures than I actually did. Maybe, around 100 pictures. At least, I didn’t have to worry about the cost of a roll of film. I told Trey that his dad used to be a photo hobbyist himself, back in UST and the boy seemed to have picked up the hobby.



Photo taken by Trey from the second floor attic of the vacation house of Bob's brother at Crosswinds, Tagaytay.

Monch always cautioned Trey while he was holding the camera, fearing that the boy might drop or damage the camera. I didn’t worry a bit and was more glad to see Trey taking an interest in photography. I gave him so tips and directions in taking landscape pictures while Matess shared some minutes on close-up photography.

Miguel was off to Boracay for his own holiday vacation, so it was only Iya who shared the weekend of Red Dog. We were teasing Cesar as he couldn’t say the “magic words” to Miguel as he was boarding his flight to Boracay. But we were sure that Cesar shows and expresses his love in more ways and words! Photo of Cesar and Marivic Pareja with their daughter Iya taken by Trey Novales just a few minutes before we were all scheduled to go back to Manila. We decided to leave mid-afternoon as we were anticipating many other urbanites returning from a long weekend.

For Chief and myself, this weekend in Tagaytay was another eye-opener as we continue to dream about being parents one day. If CG was alive today, CG would surely have added extra smiles for this weekend!

Miguel Graduates

Photo shows Miguel waiting and teasing around with his classmates (Rayu-ta, Joffer, Sean and Luis) just an hour before the graduation of the 20th batch of Veritas Parochial School graduates. We arrived at the Church around 8am.


Still playing around with a female classmate, Jica Diego, as they wait for the big moment before the start of the graduation ceremonies. Holy Mass was scheduled to start at 9am.


His mom (and my sister) Violet takes a picture of Miguel as they wait. Violet had been waiting for this day for six years. Now, it was just less than an hour away!


The sixth grade students wait in line just and wait for the graduation march. Behind them are entries and winners of an "on the spot" painting contest organized by the parish.


Now, graduation was just a few steps away for Miguel. I took this photo as I sat on the floor, directly in front of the first row and a few steps from the altar!

Finally the big moment as Miguel receives his diploma from Fr. Martinez and his class adviser, Ma'am Cecile. Now, Miguel is official through his elementary years and ready to face the bigger challenges of high school. My mom, Meya Velez, was extra happy to see Miguel graduate. She said that she had seen Carla Velez and Geneve Velez graduate
from the same school a few years ago. Now, the girls are living in California and Miguel is the only grandchild at home. Congratulations Miguel!

Practice Parenthood

From Wednesday to Sunday last week, Chief and I were “parents” to Miguel Cuenco and Julius Gabutina, as we took the streets of Cagayan de Oro and the hot and cold springs of Camigiun. Both are our nephews. Miguel is the only son of Violet, my sister, while Julius is the eldest son of Manny and Vangie Gabutina. Photo shows Julius and Miguel at Sto. Nino Cold Spring in Camigiun Island. At first I didnt want to swim but I had to look over the two kids, while Nady, Rene, Christie and Chief enjoyed conversation and the warm summer breeze. There a lot of residents and visitors at the cold spring which was our first stop of our day-long island tour. Rental of the multi-cab is 1,800 pesos.


Must admit that it was a rare experience to be with Miguel and Julius. Somehow the parent instinct in us came out. Nady had observed that I would be the disciplinarian. More strict? Hmmm. Photo shows the boys with Chief and Christie inside the orange-colored multi-cab jeep that brought us around Camigiun Island.


We kept a close watch over them throughout the trip, specially, when they went swimming. I had to join them at the cold spring. And the hot spring and along the beach front in Mambajao. Photo shows me and Julius on the beach.

But along the coast, Rene and Nady kept the two boys company. Even playing with them.


But throughout the four days, Chief and I are sure they enjoyed the experience, learned a few things from the adults, discovered new places and food and became friends too.


Photo of everybody just outside the Seafood Restaurant where we enjoyed our first provincial lunch, after the one hour flight from Manila to Cagayan de Oro. We had grilled squid, pork adobo and the fishpen all around us!

Arrival in Cagayan de Oro

Last Wednesday morning, we arrived in Cagayan de Oro, together with Rene Bernal and Nady Nacario, my best friends from UST Graduate School. Unfortunately, another friend, Christie Que, arrived late at the airport but was able to join us Thursday morning.



For this trip, two boys joined us. Miguel Cuenco, the only son of my sister, Violet and Julius Gabutina, the eldest son of Vangie and Manny Gabutina.

And for Cecile and myself, this vacation served as practice steps for parenthood.

Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday is really one of the most important feast in the Catholic Church. For me, it is a joyous celebration of Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem before His own Passion and Death on the cross. Photo shows the fresco "Entry of Christ into Jerusalem" by painter Franz Plattner found in the Holy Cross Parish Church in Zirl, Austria Photo source is Wikipedia.

Chief and I went to St. John Bosco Church for Palm Sunday Mass. Everyone had palms and early during the Mass, the palms were blessed by the priest.

According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, palm branches have been used by all nations as an emblem of joy and victory over enemies and in Christianity as a sign of victory over the flesh.



The palms are usually taken home by the faithful and used as a sacramental. These palms are preserved in prominent places in the house. Our palm now sits above a painting in our own living room.

The vestments for the day are deep scarlet red, the color of blood, indicating the supreme sacrifice Christ was entering Jerusalem.
The palms are saved in many churches to be burned the following year as the source of ashes used in Ash Wednesday services.

Parents in Camigiun

On the 19th, Cecile and I will be traveling down to Cagayan de Oro with our friends, Rene Bernal, Nady Nacario and Christie Que. Plus, two young teens, Julius Gabutina and Miguel Cuenco. And for those four days in the south, we shall be like parents to our young nephews.

It would be our graduation gift for Miguel who is finishing his elementary years while an advanced birthday gift for Julius. For me and Cecile, it was a good chance to open the doors of communication to the two teens and expose them to more adult-oriented conversation and activity outside of their own homes.

All these are part of our parenthood steps.

Birthday Cheers

Birthday cheers to my loving wife Cecile Gabutina-Velez. While we would have wanted a really nice and out of town birthday celebration, guess, we were both too tired to get out of Manila and settled for Greek food at CYMA Restaurant at Greenbelt 2.

The servings were enough for both us. Food was reasonably priced. A little too oily. I tried out the “Moussaka” which is a traditional eggplant based dish, with layers of meat. It was baked and layered. Should have taken a photo. “Moussaka” means chilled.

Service was a little slow but warm thanks to Sandy, who used to work for Segafredo, his warm and friendly service made the dining experience more memorable. The second floor dining area a little to cramp and tight.

Plus we would hear the Greek cheer "Opa!" as we dined in the second floor.

And since it was Chief’s birthday, Sandy gave us a scoop of ice cream. Nice gesture. “Flamming Mangoes” would be been a perfect freebee. Maybe, next time.

22 years ago

22 years ago, a lot of young men and women, some just out of college, joined millions of Filipinos in EDSA to help bring down a dictatorship and bring democracy back to the Philippines.

Still many of the problems that plagued the country continue to exist today, 22 years after the first "People Power."

While I scribble these words at Starbucks, I look back to those four days in February and reflect how much change has resulted out of "people power." Yes, we all forced Marcos and his cronies out of the country, but still some of these cronies are within our midst, pretending, to be good parents wanting change for the country and their children.

I hope it won't take another 22 years to bring about change. It starts with us.

Parents at EDSA

Back in the last days of February 1986, thousands of parents, joined other Filipinos, students and clergy to help bring an end to rule of the late Ferdinand Marcos and bring a new era of democracy to the country.

22 years later, many parents, who were probably,just out of college then, feel the economic crunch (despite the strong peso) and are angered over the "moderation of greed" and excessive corruption that plagues local politics.

Will people step up and forward for change?

V-day at home

Now, am trying ti recall how Cecile and I have celebrated Valentine's Day through the years. I remember the most memorable Vday celebration was when we were back in Ho Chi Minh City where I spread out rose petals across our 3rd floor apartment in Tran Nhat Duat Street. I had made arrangements with a local Vietnamese florist (with the help of Minh Chau).

The florist brought a bundle of rose petals and she spread it from the entrance of our door, leading to the bedroom. There were also 14 long stem roses spread across our nearly 50sqm Greenhome.

I have forgotten what other gift I got Cecile.

But definitely, she got the gift of love!

Tonight, Cecile will get a couple of framed photographs from two good students, Sainah Alonzo and Kharren Cabais, which would symbolize the love we share.

Happy Valentine’s Chief!