June 30,2012
5th USTMD70 class e-magazine
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!
Lighted kites at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
THE FATHER OF JUNE 12
In 2005, the Boston Filipino people marked the 108th anniversary of Philippine Independence with a family picnic at Hanscom AFB, Bedford, MA..The rain did not dampen the enthusiasm of the family picnic which was held in the Hanscom AFB picnic grounds. More than 50 Filipinos came together to celebrate the Philippine Independence Day. This was the first Philippine Independence Day picnic in greater Boston since 1998.
Before 1962, the Philippines celebrated its independence day on the same date as the Americans do, on July 4 each year. The change in the date of our independence day was proclaimed on May 17, 1962 by then President Diosdado Macapagal. The first observance of the new date was in June 12 of the same year.
Professor Gabriel Fabella
The man who worked tirelessly and almost single-handedly for the change in our independence date from July 4 to June 12 is a Romblomanon and relative–the late UP Professor and former Romblon Assemblyman Gabriel F. Fabella (Tang Ambe). He was the Head of the UP Department of History and President of the Philippine Historical Association at that time.
The proposed change in Philippine independence date which Prof. Fabella started in 1955 was not a popular idea. His co-professors at the state university laughed off at his proposal.But he continued his advocacy through the media and in his public speeches.
He finally won the fight in 1962 when President Macapagal issued Proclamation No. 28 declaring June 12 as Philippine Independence Day. President Macapagal may have signed the initiative but Tang Ambe fired the opening salvo in 1954 and tirelessly fought and campaigned for June 12 as the country’s proper Independence Day.
Something happened between the successful Philippine Revolution against Spain (1898) and the subsequent American conquest of the Philippines (1899-1903).
On June 12, 1898, General Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed the independence of the Filipinos in Kawit, Cavite. During that day, there was the reading of the Independence Proclamation. This was followed by the the unfurling of the Filipino flag for the first time, accompanied by the playing of Julian Felipe’s National Anthem for the first time and highlighted by the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Historian Esteban A. de Ocampo clarified that Philippine independence was not declared 
or proclaimed on July 4, 1946. What happened was merely a recognition of Philippine independence proclained on June 12, 1898.
The Man From Romblon
Born on March 18, 1898, Tang Ambe was the 10th of 13 children of a poor couple from Banton, Romblon. In spite of poverty, he managed to finish not only his primary and secondary schooling but also his tertiary education. Through hard work and perseverance, he gradually realized his dreams, proving that not even poverty is a hindrance to anyone’s success if determination is present in a goal-oriented individual.
He was the first-ever Bantoanon to finish three degrees (BSE, BA, and HSTC) from UP in just three years (1917-1920), an MA History degree holder (1931), lawyer (1934), UP professor (1923-1934; 1946-1963) and assemblyman of Romblon (1935-1938).
At 37, he became so popular when he defeated the so-called “Dean of the Lower House” and traditional politician Leonardo Festin Sr as Romblon representative in the First National Assembly under the Commonwealth. Leonardo Festin Sr (Papa Nardo) was my paternal grandfather. A leading Nacionalista party member of Manuel L. Quezon, my grandfather was known to be undefeated in Romblon and had served for seven consecutive terms (1916-1935). Tang Ambe said that he challenged Papa Nardo because he felt that no one should hold an elected political position for that long. He did not give any reason why holding an elected position for long was objectionable. Manuel Quezon was so confident of Papa’s winning that he asked Papa to stay in Manila to help his projects. So Papa stayed in Manila and did not set foot in Romblon to campaign. To Quezon’s dismay, Papa lost to a neophyte lawyer whose rigorous campaign and charisma gained tremendous support from the electorate. When Papa learned of his defeat, he broke into tears. Tang Ambe served one term (1935-1938) and was replaced in the next election by Papa who campaigned tirelessly to regain his former position. Tang Ambe abandoned politics and returned to teaching but remained an active member of the Nacionalista Party.
Photo below: President Manuel Quezon signing papers aboard a ship.
L-R:unknown, unknown, Secretary of Justice Jose Yulo,President Manuel Quezon, House Speaker Quintin Paredes, unknown, Romblon Representative Leonardo Festin Sr.
Tang Ambe was an academician. Many still know the several schools he founded and owned shortly after the war not only in Romblon but also in Mindoro and Batangas. Before his retirement in 1963, he served as both chair of the UP Department of History and acting director of UP Clark Air Base (1958-1960). He mentored the most successful student, President Ferdinand Marcos, who used to study far into the late hours under him during his pre-Law days at UP.
He was a historian. He wrote about a hundred articles in various scholarly magazines Even until now, the Philippine Historical Society reveres him as one of its founding members and its first president who served four terms starting 1955
On Jan. 29, 1982, the old and sick professor finally joined his Creator on his way to Manila from Canada. As we observe our independence this month, it is but fitting and proper to honor this “Father of June 12” of ours by remembering his greatest legacy to this country he loved so much.
Sadly, Macapagal claimed that it was the fulfillment of his very own idea. It can be said that the late president had selfishly claimed the full credit. As the then incumbent president, he turned into reality the lifelong goal of an academician. In other words, he merely acted upon the idea of someone. Fabella did not receive any credit except being mentioned in several newspapers and dubbed by his contemporary scholars the “Father of June 12.” The injustice done by Macapagal to Fabella’s role may be explained by the fact that the latter was a member of Partido Nacionalista, the rival of the President”s Partido Liberal. (Excerpted from the Philippine Inquirer and Wikepdia).
The Picnic
The picnic started with a solemn Independence Day Mass celebrated by Fr. Celestino Pascual, Spiritual Director of the Filipino Apostolate. His homily of the Parable of the Widow’s Offering was well-received. Jesus praised the woman who gave a lowly penny into the alms box and said that this woman gave more than all the others, who gave a much bigger alms, because, in her generosity to God, she gave all that she had.
To be eligible for door prizes, one had to correctly answer this question:
Who said the following?
First, “Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains
and slavery? Forbid it. Almighty God! I know not what course others may take but as for me give me liberty, or give me death. ” Second, ” I have always loved my poor country, and I am sure that I shall love her until death, if by chance men are unjust to me; and I shall enjoy the happy life, contented in the thought that all that I have suffered, my past, my present and my future, my life, my loves, my pleasures, I have sacrificed all of these for love of her. Happen what may, I shall die blessing her and desiring the dawn of her redemption.” Answers at the end of the article.
Rpse, the gatekeeper, carefully tallied the registration fee payments of the guests. Johnny, Manny and Tony M dutifully minded the grills and the picnic tables. The rest took the opportunity to catch up with the latest news in the Filipino community. They traded jokes typical in a picnic excursion. In addition, they met and welcomed the new Filipinos to MA. Over lunch on a mantled picnic table, they chatted heartily and exchanged stories about almost any topic under the sun.There were lots of delicious food, ranging from the familiar to the exotic to satisfy any appetite. True to Filipino tradition, the prominently displayed lechon with the apple in the mouth was the centerpiece. As expected, people had extra helpings of the exotic “cambing calderetta,” a favorite goat dish with Filipinos, analogous to the lamb. Of course, a picnic would not be complete without the freshly-grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. The juicy watermelon added a touch of summer to the festive occasion. In the background, popular Filipino folk music in various dialects nostalgically brought back memories of life in the old country. A few obligatory flies swooped in to share in the celebration….and become our unwelcome guests. It was a real, honest-to-goodness picnic!
The picnic was sponsored by PAMANA, Inc., an umbrella organization comprised of the following organizations:Iskwelahang Pilipino, Filipino Apostolate of the Archdiocese of Boston, Filipino American Assocation of Greater Boston (FAGB), Fil-Am Arts, Kapatiran sa Massachusetts (KASAMA), Philippine Dance Company (PDCO), Dance Philippines,
Pilipino-American Golfers Association of New England, Pilipino-American Association of New England (PAMAS), Philippine Nurses Association of New England (PNANE),
Philippine Medical Association of New England (PMANE), New England Society of Phil-Am Health Professionals (NESPHP), The Holy Infant Jesus (Sto. Nino) Prayer Group of New England, Couples/Singles for Christ (CFC/SFC), Bagong Kulturang Pinoy (BKP),Kawit 1898-1998, P.O.W.E.R., Central Massachusetts Filipino American Association (CMFAA),
Filipino Young Professionals (FYP-Boston),Filipino-American Charitable Trust of NH (FACT-NH), Springfield Filipino Association, Fil-Am Friendship Society of New Hampshire,
PAGASA, Fil-Am Association of Newport, Rhode Island, HOPE Foundation, RI. (25 in all).
The organizers met several times to plan the picnic. The picnic was made possible with the generous donation of $250.00 from the Filipino Apostolate and a $50.00 donation from PAMAS. The proposed games were walking/jogging, basketball, tug of war, chess and playing Cards. There was an excellent bike and walking route in Hanscom.
PAMANA President Bill reiterated his immense appreciation to all who were involved before, during and after the anticipation/preparation of the 108th Philippine Independence Day Commemoration.
It was an enjoyable way to spend a rainy Saturday. There was so much food that some brought home left-overs. In the end, people bade one another good-bye with promises to be back next year for another fun-filled Philippine Independence Day family picnic. In celebrating our day of freedom, we look back to honor the men and women who fought and died to make our country free and independent. Mabuhay and Pilipinas!
Originally published in PinoyAdsCentral.com; Answers: Patrick Henry and Jose Rizal.
Mini F sitting second from the left in the second row in a Philippine Independence picnic.
THE OWL
We were excitedly watching Our Owl as we were eating an early dinner tonight. (paksiw na talilong “mullet” and adobong pusit “squid”)
He/She was perched on the tree right behind the eating area of our kitchen,
then flew down to the swimming pool deck railing, looking for his own dinner.
He curiously watched me take his/her pictures through the picture window.
Seems very friendly, and not scared.
We are happy that he/she keeps coming back to our backyard,
this time even chose a tree closest to our house.
He/She has made our backyard his/her home/refuge during spring and summer.
One very beautiful Owl! Another one of God’s Wonderful Creations!
– that can cheer and lighten up anyone’s heart! And gives anyone a Smile!
Alice and Ando
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From Lew and JunB
How do PEOPLE RISE above their life’s quotidian VICISSITUDES?
What QUINTESSENTIALLY HOLDS them together in one piece?
Wherefrom do they draw the FIBER not to snap under existential pressure? Lew
Jun B’s reply:
Where do we find the strength, the sanity to stay alive living everyday in this
chaotic, stressful, confusing world?
I believed that Minnie is right…..Faith in God, that is alone powerful, my
friend, to sustain not only the physical, emotional but also the spiritual makeup
of man and if you add Hope, this gives an additional perspective in the life of
a human being, believing that tomorrow will be a better day and today is just
a temporary bump in the road of life. Another is the resiliency and the ability
of the human being to come to terms with reality . All and more give the will
and strength to live for another day. The past also adds to the strength of
character and the undying will, determination and hope that tomorrow will
always be a better than yesterday….. 2 cents–jb
Cenegenics
Ever heard of the term cenegenics? It is age management medicine that purportedly helps control the aging process and all that comes with it; the declining health, loss of muscle mass, decreased energy, low sex drive, memory loss and a host of other events. There is a continuing interest on how to defy aging, especially now that since the turn of the century, people are living much longer – 30 – 40 years longer, and life expectancy increasing by two to five years per decade especially in developed countries. To achieve this and gain more longevity and feel young despite developing those wrinkles on your face and then live agelessly ( I think of Hugh Hefner marrying a woman 60 years younger) requires revitalizing every cell in the human body and preventing the degradation and the decay of powerhouse inside them which we call mitochondria. How can one keep those small cellular powerhouses humming so that you can prolong and enjoy life. It may not give you a well-chiseled six pack abs like the 72-year-old Dr. Jeffrey Like, the “face” of cenegenics, but it may make you act like you have found and drank from the fountain of youth.
Ed Quiros
My Hometown: Guagua, Pampanga
A Chinese couple and their son were accused of killing a British citizen in China.The son’s name is Bo Guagua.
In our history book by Zaide,Chinese merchants settled in our town Guagua.Could it be the name is Chinese origin? The old folks call it Wawa for short, my theory was that came from the people with no teeth The Pampanga river tributaries includes our town , a convenience which made way for a large market place where fishermen brought on their catch.It also helped irrigating the farmlands.There is probably more business activity in
our town more than any other part of the province.It should have been the provincial capital.We have 3 movie theaters, one bowling alley.2 small college,one Chinese school ,one private school and one trade school. We have a lumber company, and ice maker plant. Railways transportation from Manila passes by our town.Being that the waterways was the life blood of the town,. I thought it really started as agua like water which then evolved to it’s present name Guagua. Does any of our Chinese classmates who speak and learned Chinese help on this? Is Guagua Chinese or Spanish origin?
Thanks if you can help.
Joe L.
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April Birthday celebrants.Sylvia Chua, Augusto Juguilon,
May Birthday Celebrants: Evelyn Gonzales (10th), Ramon Abragan (11), Angie Miguel – Aguirre(12th), Art Racelis (14th), Myrlie Larena (15th), Boy Samala (16th), Lito Durante (17th), Bee Bulaclac, Bing Orlino, Gloria Tablang, Ofie Ramoso, Robbie Diaz, Gally Grajo, Mon Domingo, Brenda Caparros, Roy Gonzales, Roland Singson, Rene Grabato, Elsa De Guzman, Roy Gonzales, Rey Lazaro.
June Birthday celebrants:Ruby Batan, Carol Manahan, Pete Calope (18th), Ping Duran (19th), Riz Galit (20th), Mini Festin (20th), Norma Dy, (22nd), Jimmy Cabatingan (23rd), Leddy Dizon (26th(, Mon Matignas (27th)
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MONET’S LA VISIT 5/2012
L-R: Eloy Banes, unknown, Monet, Carol M.
Our Teacher: Dr. Leonor Rivera Calimlim and her daughters
She looks great at age 85. Her self confidence and strong personality give the impression of arrogance. Having known her more closely as a friend here in Rochester , I can tell you that she is quite a remarkably kind , loving and humble person. She sought us , (her former students, )and befriended us , invited us to their home , phoned us ,every now and then . They came to our humble apartments and dined with us . Attended our children’s birthday parties. Ed , and others, were beneficiaries . I learned from her, not only Pharmacology.I learned from her, by her example (and motherly advise),about living and loving.
Lynne
L-R: Ted, Lynne, Dr. Calimlim and spouse
Kira Margallo Hofer
She is Kira Isabel Margallo Hofer 7 year old first grade student and loves tosing and dance. Good soccer player, gymnast and swimmer.She attends at St. Geralds Catholic School in Omaha, Nebraska where her momFarah teaches Spanish and Arts. She is also a Psychologist. Except for her lighter color, she is Farah’s clone.
Sibling bonding: Ariana and David Calope
DEATH OF A CEMETERY DOCUMENTARY FILM July 17, 2012
Would like to invite everyone especially our classmates in the Dallas, Texas area and vicinity to the Asian Film Festival of Dallas on July 16-21. There are two Filipino films being previewed, one of them is Jeanie’s “Death of a Cemetery”, the other “Give Up Tomorrow” by Marty Syjuco. Thank you and God Bless.
Yet
Hi there!
This is Cayetano “Yet” (Grace) Dizon’s daughter writing – Jeanie Duque Dizon. I am the director of a documentary feature film entitled DEATH OF A CEMETERY.
We are holding our OFFICIAL WORLD PREMIERE at the Asian Film Festival of Dallas this summer, and I would like to invite you to our screening. Because our movie is a human rights film, we feel it is important that it reach as many audiences as possible.
A little about our film:
In Manila North Cemetery in the Philippines, 3000 people live amongst the dead. Gravekeepers grow gardens around tombs; chefs cook up hearty fare in crypt-side restaurants; and children play basketball in between school and funerals. Though more peaceful than other shantytowns, it is rife with conflict. A teenage boy must undergo an exorcism lest forever be possessed by spirits, and the government wants to evict all the residents. Will the community survive against modern forces, or is this the death of a cemetery?
DEATH OF A CEMETERY is a moving account of life in a place of death. Much like Marc Singer’s “Dark Days”, our documentary shines a light on urban dispossession and meditates on homelessness from a compelling existential angle. But despite the macabre setting of a graveyard, the documentary focuses on the dignity of the people rather than the strangeness of the place and highlights humanity amidst bleak circumstances. Although it is Filipino in time and place, all viewers can connect with the lengths residents will go to provide for their families.
Philippine novelist Miguel Syjuco narrates and British “supergroup” BEAK (which includes Geoff Barrow of Portishead) provides an intriguing soundtrack.
Please feel free to spread the word to as many in the Texas Filipino and Asian community as you can. Our film is in the documentary competition, and we hope to pack the theater!
Here are the details of the screening:
DEATH OF A CEMETERY
OFFICIAL WORLD PREMIERE
ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL OF DALLAS 2012
Screening on Tuesday, July 17 @ 4:00pm
Magnolia Landmark Theater
West Village
3699 McKinney Avenue, Suite 100
Dallas, TX 95204
(214) 764 – 9106
Tickets will be available at the Asian Film Festival of Dallas website:
or at the Magnolia Landmark Theater website:
In the meantime, please feel free to watch the trailer and read the back story behind the documentary at our website:
Thank you! We really appreciate your support. Hope to see you there!
All best,
Jeanie Duque Dizon
Director
Jeanie Duque Dizon
Director
BEHIND THE SCENES BY YET
The film took three months to shoot. They have thought about making it for a few years but the camera and video equipment were too prohibitive (cost) and heavy to transport and they did not want to rent local equipment. Then in 2009 Canon came out with an affordable digital SLR that could do 1080 high definition videos, which started a trend. And that’s what they used Canon digital SLRs. Nowadays even high profile directors and producers make their trailers using the new I PAD, how neat and affordable. It probably cost about $20,000 which is minuscule nowadays. Most of the labor help was gratis from Grace’s brothers Cesar, Gonzalo and Francisco. Phil, Jeanie’s husband is from Bristol, U.K. and has worked on documentaries for BBC, Discovery channel, MTV and now TNT and TNN so he had plenty of background experience. He also knew the British group Beak> and got permission to use their music for the background score. I did most of the translation from Tagalog to English (gratis) which took a solid month. The only problem encountered was the last days of filming Phil got “Dengue fever” and was admitted at Medical City in Ortigas Avenue. It was a mild case treated with hydration and monitoring the CBC. He got well in a week although they had to spend the Christmas holidays there for him to recuperate. He said every time Francisco visited, the whole floor stood in attention! He probably got the “royal” treatment because of Francisco. BTW the parents of Manuel Syjuco are friends of the family.
Editor note: Dr. Francisco Duque is the Philippine Secretary of Health
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10 Simple Things for Physicians to do to Improve Patient Satisfaction
1. Acknowledge everyone in the patient’s room(not just the patient).
2. Introduce yourself to the patient( in your own words). Consider
business cards.
3. Shake patient’s hand ( if appropriate).
4. Sit ( or perch) at the patient’s bedside.
5. Use the words ” comfort & concern” in your sentences as much as
possible.
6. Don’t leave the room without sharing a “plan” with patient.
7. Go back into the room to notify the patient of any discharge or
changes in care.
8. Smile.
9. Ask, “what questions do you have? vs. ” do you have any questions?”
10. Hardwire these simple actions ——do it on every patient!!
Baptist Leadership Group. (contributed by Joe D. L)
New York Physical Therapists
MY Dear Classmates and Friends:
This letter is an announcement for New York area residents and practitioners for your kind consideration for self and patients referral in the field of rehabilitation, sports injuries, prevention, fitness program, golf-specific rehab, post CVA and post-operative evaluations and treatments.
Our son Christopher and wife Ruxandra are graduates at the Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons with degrees of Doctor of Physical Therapy. They are now proud founders and owners of the :
Progressive Movement Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab
39 E 78th St. # 302 and 304
New York, New York 10075
Tel: 212- 452-1340
Chris is Board Certified- Clinical Specialist in Sports PT, TPI Certified Golf Fitness Instructor ( Level 2 Medical Professional), Certified Emergency First responder, Certified Kinesio tape Practitioner. His undergraduate studies was at the University of Minnesota with a degree of Kinesiology. He is involved with the US Ski and Snow Boarding Team ( Medical Team) Winter Dew Tour, Freestyle World Cup Europe, Snowboard World Cup Europe, ING NY Marathon finisher and medical volunteer and Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. He is an average golfer and Eastern South Dakota State Tennis Doubles Champion as a senior in High School.
Ruxandra’s Speciality is in Pediatric PT including Neurological ( Brain and Spinal cord trauma ). She holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Biology at the Stony Brook University in New York. She is an avid runner and qualified for the New York marathon this November.
Thank you very much.
Sincerely Yours,
Lucio N. ( Boy Maga) Margallo 11 M
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Schedule of Activities
Keuka Lake Weekend
1. August 3, 2012
Healing Mass- 8 PM – Fr. Tayag
St. Anne’s Church
Rochester , NY.
(optional )
2 . Wine tasting – Keuka Wine Trail – 10AM
( optional)
3. Other Options;Visit Blueberry Farm ,Glenn Curtiss Museum , Hammondsport , Corning Glass Museum , Shopping downtown Corning .
Shopping at Geneva prime outlets
Fish , swim , cruise the Lake .
Watkins Glen
Amish Flee Market Wind mill
4. August 4, 2012-Saturday
Class Reunion Med 70
3PM -Till ?
Picnic Keuka Lake House
Dance and sing until you drop .
Night fishing ,or night swimming
5 . Sunday Mass Schedule, August 5,
St Michael Church
Penn, Yan , NY
7AM. and 9:30 AM
St. Mary’s Church
Bath, NY 9 AM
St. Gabriel Church
11AM
Hammondsport , NY
6, August 5, Sunday Class Reunion Continues
Brunch -10 AM
7.Blueberry Farm- owned by Abonados from Long Island
Pick your own blueberries , veggie or buy .
Sunday Mass – 1 PM-Fr Tony from LI
Lunch to follow
8. For those staying .
Leave for Canada
Niagara falls , American and Canadian side
Casino ( optional )
Chinatown , Toronto
Email your preferences for optional events
Mariano 143@ aol. Com
Please let us know if we can assist with accommodations , golf, tennis , etc
We are looking forward to a fun weekend .
Lynne
MAX’ MIDWEST LONG DRIVE
Max and Magnum in a stopover in a rest stop in Oklahoma
April 5, Wednesday
I will be driving with my son to Chicago this weekend taking the I 40 route across New
Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma, then up on I 44 to Missouri, then I 55 to Illinois.
My third long drive this route. Hope I don’t encounter the tornadoes. Back in Jan 2005,
Got hit with blizzards on the way to California pulling a trailer with my SUV
It was scary driving. Will be flying back to LA on April 23.
April 7, Saturday
Keeping you posted, right now on I 40 driving towards Tulsa. It’s 3pm Sat LA time. Left Last night at 8 pm. My son Marvin drove all night while I slept. It was full moon and pleasant weather Last night. Mostly desert scenes in Nevada and Arizona till Flagstaff where there are plenty Of evergreen trees due to the mountains. New Mexico Was again mostly desert like terrain,Texas was similar, come Oklahoma, the scenery changed with everything spring green. Common to Texas and Oklahoma was the plentiful cattle from the ranches visible along the way. Just stopped at a rest area in Oklahoma. The best I have seen so far! Very clean, free coffee And looks like hotel lobby. Fred I’ve never taken a round trip this route before. First time one way From Chicago to San Francisco to give my mom a tour was back in 1 976. S he flew home to Manila and us to Chicago. The car we drove was a Cadillac El Dorado that a company called Wilson drive away hired me to drive to California. Next trip was in 1986 when me and a driver Took my 1982 MBenz 300SD to LA for container shipping to Manila. The most recent trip was Last Summer when my band got hired by the UERM to play in Chicago. Drove with two band mate
One is TNT and couldn’t fly plus I had to bring some of the band gear to Chicago. It was one way driving for me. We’l likely book a hotel tonight in Springfield Mo. Just passed by lots of windmills in Oklahoma. There were some in Texas too.
April 8, Sunday
’twas great weather all day til we reached Oklahoma City when sky became dark late afternoon and then it began to rain. Good thing no tornadoes showed up and rains stopped by the time We got to Tulsa. Not to Phoenix as Pete was saying, he must be thinking of Glen Campbell’s song when we were students. Anyway, finally arrived at our Hotel in Springfield Mo, last and only Stopover to our destination, Chicago. Will go to Easter Mass tomorrow at St Joseph’s Church At 8am. it’s midnight now! gotta get some sleep. Turtle and dog both asleep, too tired maybe. Son still awake.
Max
April 8 Easter sunday afternoon
Now on 1 55 three hours away from
Chicago. It’s flat Midwest terrain with the Expressway running straight as an arrow most
Of the time unlike in Missouri where the terrain was hilly. It’s however springtime and everything is green. You’re right the turtle and dog did bond specially the bulldog. Bulldogs
are a special breed they look ferocious but very humanoid this dog spent
Half the night sleeping on my bed and other half with Marvin.
Had to pay extra 10 bucks just for pet accommodation.
Max
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To all classmates,
I would like to encourage voluntary donations to our “slush fund” and send your support to Mini. The “slush fund” was initiated by Jun B for the benefit of our own needy classmates who qualify (medical or otherwise like Gus Rodriguez) decided by Mini et al. Unlike the UST Class 70 EAF which is for the benefit of our country, this one hit’s us closest to home our own classmates. Everyone is getting “mature” and medical issues start creeping up amongs us so please be kind and send your checks to Mini. You or I could be next !!
God bless,
Yet
Ed note: $500 was taken from the slush fund in May 2012 for Gus Rodriguez who recently underwent brain surgery. Total donation so far to the slush fund: $2300.00.
A class 70 account for the slush fund was opened by Mini at the Hanscom AFB
Credit Union, Bedford, MA 01730
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The list below shows the donors to the UST TAC. Anyone who is not in it and gave a donation to our Thomasian Alumni Center (TAC), please let me know. The donors’ names will be inscribed on the wall of the TAC. Roger Liboon is still accepting donations to the TAC. The TAC will be our second home in RP and will help us in our alumni issues. Each donor gave $200.00 except USTMD70 Philippines which gave $400.00. Many, many thanks to our classmates for donating to our Ruby Legacy to UST. Without UST, we will not be what we are.
Socorro Aggabao-Talosig
Zeny Andaya-Maddela
Leyte Asuncion-Saldana
Max Basco
Antonio Bernas
Joseph Bumatay
Luz Bunuan-Cuaresma
Charlie and May Capati
Edgardo Capitulo
Crisale Cosas
Patricia Cruz-Tayao
Norma Cunanan-Salceda
Miguel De Castro
Nieves De Guzman
Manny DeSagun
Roberto Diaz
Armando Dijamco
Cayetano Dizon
Lydia Dizon-Jazmines
Ramon Domingo
Luz Duque-Hammerschaimb
Lolita Echaluse-Chiong
Herminia Festin-Navato
Rechilda Flores-Orlino
Mila Galang-Gonzales
Rizalin Galit-Fllickinger
Agripino Gonzales
Evelyn Gonzales-Abola
Eleanor and Ismael Holipas
Alice Lachenal-Dijamco
Myrlie Larena-Casco
Jose Leoncio
Roger Liboon
Marietta Lozada-Galvez
Mirla Manito-Hugo
Lucio Margallo
Jesusa Navarro-Romero
Viictoria Pingul-Petrillo
Rodolfo Polintan
Dante Ragasa
Esperanza Ragon-Tolosa
Ofelia Ramoso-Mangubat
Lourdes Ramos-Polintan
Efren Regio
Harry Salceda
Rolando Singson
Esperanza Tinio-Kabatay
James Zipagan
UST MD 70 — $400.00
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Dear classmates:
Recently our nation was hit by Typhoon Sendong (aka Typhoon Washi) a “mega tropical storm” which resulted in severe flash flooding and catastrophic damage to Cagayan De Oro and Iligan City. We lost about 1100 people with about 143,000 left homeless as a result of the flooding. Overall 338,000 were affected in 13 provinces. Our class responded well to this crisis. Through the prodding of our classmate Deng Sitjar, countless phone calls by everyone, our President Max Basco was able to raise over $10,000 in about six weeks, handed over to Monet Abragan & Phebe Lim-Tan the former from Iligan City and the latter from CDO. The allocation of those funds were detailed by both Max and Monet in separate emails with accompanying pictures. We would like to thank everyone for their generous contributions to this cause. After this fund raising campaign Deng Sitjar felt we should move forwards and establish an ongoing fund collection for future “catastrophic events” in our homeland the Philippines. We will dedicate this fund towards helping victims in times of crisis and catastrophe who need the most relief and below are our guidelines for this VISION, our purpose for this MISSION, and our GOALS we want to achieve. Everything we decide will be communicated with the current Presidents in the US (Max) and RP (Monet), and we welcome everybody’s feedback on anything that can help our cause. In the absence of a major disaster or catastrophe, we will aim towards the promotion of health and improvement of life through various agencies via our donations.
Our proposal to class members and friends is a voluntary contribution of $50 per annum, depending on your level of comfort. A volunteer board consisting of Linda Aguilar Mariano, Ledy Dizon- Jasminez, Yet Dizon, Gally Grajo, Phebe Lim-Tan and Puring Cruz-De Los Santos will oversee the collection and distribution of funds. It will be called USTMD Class 70 Emergency Assistance Fund (USTMD EAF) and this will be our legacy that we will promote and continue over time. Initial chairman is Yet Dizon, and treasurer is Puring. Please send your donations to Puring Cruz- De Los Santos, 2101 E 39th Street, Sterling, Illinois 61081. Questions can be directed to me Yet Dizon (478) 335-1403 or to Puring (815) 716-3753.
Guidelines For Release Of Emergency Funds:
1. When: a major calamity has been declared by the Philippine Government as a national disaster.
2. Where: in resettlement areas of a region where a classmate lives who will then serve as our liason officer. In areas where a classmate doesn’t live, the current Class President can
appoint a liason officer (a classmate) who can serve as one. Caveat: one time per region.
3. What: something that will benefit a significant amount of victims like permanent structures: a) water tanks b) schools c) medical structures (hospitals & clinics)
In a given year where there is no disaster in the Philippines, (thank God for that) we suggest releasing $1,000 per year to one of the following:
a) Medical-Surgical Mission led by a classmate who is active in Medical Missions. 2-3 Medical Missions will be entertained for the following year.
b) Donation to an existing immunization clinic that is under supervision of one of our classmate.
Recommendations made not included above will be decided by the board.
Note: Classmates in charge of the above will have to apply a year in advance for assistance. Such application then be reviewed by the board and monies released upon approval.
Addendum:
Annual disbursement: 70-80% of the total collection.
20-30% will be kept for future, major class projects.
Again please note all contributions are entirely voluntary!
Respectfully Submitted:
Cayetano T. Dizon
A business checking account for EAF has been opened with JP Morgan Chase Bank as follows:
Title: USTMD70 EAF (Emergency Assistance Fund)
Signatories: Phebe and Puring
Total donation as of today, the 8th day of June: $3055.00
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Evelyn’s stop over in LA
Carol, Evelyn, JunB
As soon as Carol, Connie (my wife) and me had dropped Monet and Ruby off in LAX on their way back to Manila, we went to meet Evelyn A in
her hotel. She is passing by California to Australia where she will perform her APOstolic duties for a month. . The temperature is only 60 deg.,
an unusually chilly nite at this time of the month. The conversations become animated as soon as we settled down. Memories of the
days gone past was recalled between Carol and Evelyn with me contributing bits and pieces to the conversations. Politics in the Philippines
life philosophies and retirement prospect are brought into the forum capped by pictures taken inside the restaurant. We said goodbye’s to each
other after a while then as we reached home my cell phone rang. Evelyn’s camera was inadvertently left in my car. We drove back and once
again we saw @ other and promised that we will see @ other again….jb
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Max, Puring and Deng in an Emergency Assistance Fund (EAF) meeting (sponsored
by Deng) in Reel Restaurant, Oakbrook, IL 4/2012
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Seated L-R: Rita, Carol and Nareng Soon
Standing: Boy, Tony, Harry, Norma, Jessie and Espie
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Remember the 2 young Filipino Docs Abraham Tacang and Paul Lim UP graduates and friends and neighbor of our dear classmate Dr.Gil Marasigan.
Thru the request of Jun B and Gil to our USTMD70 group, they landed a 6 week preceptorship in General Internal Medicine, Critical Care, ER, ICU, Nephrology and Hematology/Oncology in the small mid western of town of Mitchell, South Dakota. The intention was to gather vast clinical and didactic experiences available in preparation for their application and interviews for the residency matching program.
Drs Abe and Paul extend their BIG BIG thanks and appreciation to our class for all the encouragement and support. Indeed they are professionals, very respectful and humble. I have NO doubt for their role in medicine as they pursue their residency and practice.
I am happy to inform you that:
1. Dr. Abraham Tacang will start his Internal Medicine Residency at the Monmouth Medical Center in New Jersey this coming June.
2. Dr. Paul Lim will start his Residency in Pediatrics at the Geisenger Medical Center in Philadelphia this coming June.
My best regards.
Lucio Boy Maga Margallo 11
Drs. Abraham Tacang and Paul Lim with Boy Maga in his clinic in South Dakota
Gally’s 65th birthday bash, May 2012
, NAPLES, FLA
Malou, Gally and JR
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Guests: David Tan Ekiong and wife
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front row: Mary A, Monet, Gally, Butch, Balbino, Charlie C
Back row: Vicente Go, Ed C, JoBum, Jun B
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L-R: Ruby Abragan, Angie Dingcong, Norma Dy, Mary Aguinaldo
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L-R: Mary Aguinaldo, Jobum, Ed C. Jun B, Gally
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Pelican Bay: L-R: seated: Monet, Bally, JunB, Balbino Perez, Ed C, Vicente Go
Standing: Roy, JoBum, Butch
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L-R: Charlie C, Butch G, JunB, Gally, Ed C
Standing: Monet, Roy
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L-R: seated: Norma D, Mary Aguinaldo, Butch Gozo, Jun B
Standing: Charlie C, Balbino Perez, Carol M, Gally, Angie Dingcong, Ed C, Mila G
The long awaited trip to Naples got its gear going this weekend after Monet touched down in LA.The salvo’s of golf balls filled the morning skies of Sta Anita. The bonding between me ,JB and Monet got sealed after a very exciting and satisfying round of golf. Meeting these guys in a familiar venue, with the same purpose in mind was fulfilling. After just playing with Monet in Veterans GC, here he is teeing it up in LA. We owe the email group in making all these events come to fruition. It just made Class 70 inextricable and committed to each other. Pack up guys. On we go.Hello,Naples. Open your bank GG.
The long awaited trip finally came to fruition. The tree which GG planted and nurtured
started blooming and bore fruits for USTMD70’s consumption. As the west headed to LAX on their way to Naples, I could sense that the party has kicked it’s gear.It was a jovial meeting between me, JB, Monet and their better half as we headed to Florida. The bloviating ,ribbing and gasconading started simmering , the air electrifying , and you could just imagine what the final salvo could be. The bond which has already been sealed from school and kept in-check by the e-mail group felt more imposing as we shared our moments in Atlanta. Then, touch down, Naples, Florida. The atmosphere was eerie as the denizen’s of Naples shankered down in their own abode, as if handing down the entire Naples to the visitors. Actually, someone quipped ( not me ) that maybe the reason why GG asked us to join him, is to boost the population and economy of Naples. He,he,he. After a long furlough at the airport ,Butch plane landed. Shortly after, the host, Roy,Mila and Carol came to pick us up. Rented vans convoyed the streets of Naples. I can recall Immukalle, sounds like visayan word to me ( Imu ang kalye ). It was close to midnight, worn out and hungry, we were treated ( as Mila expressed ) at the best restaurant in the area…..Big M.
Gloated, we were driven to our own places, beautifully and personally prepared by the host’s wife Ruby. Eat your heart out, Ritz Carlton……you’re no match. Soon we met the rest of the throng….Charlie n May Capati, Bino n Baby Perez, Norma Dy, Angie Dingcong and Mary Aguinaldo.A lot of pleasantries were shared.
Boys are boys and girls are girls. Each had their own agenda. Boys- golf course. Girls – shopping mall and touring. The dawn break was at the Tiburon Golf Course. The golf and the company was enjoyable and fulfilling. Roy killed us with a score of 81. But what I enjoyed most was the 19th hole. Seated on the patio ,on a round table, facing the 18 th green, ,Charlie bestowed upon us the Holy Spirit in the guise of Stella Artois.The gathering was jovial, we were once more toddlers. The topics were both riveting and emotional. Monikers were revealed. The sharing of experience, both as students and parents, led to some sweaty eyes. Butch portrayed himself as both St. Augustin and his flip side is Bumble Bee with his deadly stinger. JB’s moniker is Cobra, as he tried to mesmerize his subject before delivering the fatal blow. The communion of saints and the forgiveness of sins was broken only by the appearance of Charlie’s angel as she handed him the cheque.
After a quick shower we headed the the big house. We were forewarned that the host will not sit with us if we don’t smell fresh. The dinner was sumptuous . The group serenaded the host with a B-day song ala Mon Domingo ( without the guitar ). The night was surreal, electrifying and entertaining. The blotters, babblers, bloviators and gasconaders came out of the shadow. Of course , eavesdroppers were all over the place too. Vocabularies were enriched. I learned that Kadyut is a nice word, nindut is palatable but inuulaul ( inu- ula – ul ), as coined by JB is more exciting and compelling.
My last day in Naples was graced by the presence of the host as we played Arrow Head G.C. As the narrator, I take this opportunity to bloviate and eviscerate and more so claim the bragging right back to the west as I hit 1 over Par 73 and JB 5 over Par 77 ( as of this writing).
I’m now home safe in LA and I would like to personally thank GG and Ruby Grajo for being a gracious, amiable and warm hosts to the Class ,making the event meaningful and worth re-creating. You’re beautiful and you belong to USTMD70. Kudos to you and to the rest of the group….. Thanks for the memories. This has been a dumbfounding and galactic experience.
USTMD Class 70 , thanks for sharing.
Ed C
P.S.
If you find yourself in Naples, Florida and would like to meet GG, don’t tell the information or the operator Dr. Graa- who. Say Dr. Gray- Joe; otherwise, you get pummeled. Just exercising my fatherly instinct, guys.
The golfing buddies: L-R: Ed C, Charlie C, Balbino Perez,Roy G, Butch G, Monet A, Jun B
Tiburon Golf Course
The Ladies: L-R: May C, Mila G, Ruby Abragan, Angie Dingcong
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Lew’s bunso
Check out this accompanying video on YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnBszShBDJs&feature=youtube_gdata_player
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Monet’s visit to Sunny Los Angeles
Norma’s despedida party for Monet and Ruby:
Seated L-R: Jessie, Norma, Nareng, Espie, Concep, Carol, Ruby, unknown
Standing: L-R: Tony, Manny, Jun B, Ed, Roger L, Money, Max, Harry
Seated: JunB, Espie, Romo, unknown, Manny, Nareng, Concep,Carol
Standing: Harry, Ed, Ruby, Monet, Jessie, Tony, Max, Norma
Seated: L-R: Tony, Boyski, Carol, Rita, Nareng, Espie
Standing:Ed, Norma, Harry, JunB, Jessie, Monet, Max
Freddie C on drums, Romo with guitar
Seated: Norma, Nareng, Espie Romo, Jun B, Freddie C, Max B
Standing: Boyski, Carol, Monet, Ed C, Rita, Jessie, Tony, Harry
We May Not Always Realize
We may not always realize
That every thing we do,
Affects not only our lives
But touches others, too!
For a little bit of thoughtfulness
That shows someone you care,
Creates a ray of sunshine
For both of you to share.
Yes, every time you offer
Someone a helping hand …
Every time you show a friend
You care and understand …
Every time you have
A kind and gentle word to give …
You help someone find beauty
In this precious life we live.
For happiness brings happiness
And loving ways bring love;
And Giving is the treasure
That contentment is made of.
From Carol Manahan
Tony Catipay’s dinner for Monet and Ruby
Ruby, Monet, Tony, Tony’s wife, Concep, Carol M
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Link: Health.clevelandclinic.org/2012/05/the-right-way-to-exercise-after-65/
The Right Way to Exercise After 65
Getting older doesn’t mean you have to live a sedentary lifestyle. The American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association recommend all adults over age 65 exercise.
But how much is enough? Ronan Factora, MD, a geriatrician at Cleveland Clinic, says walking just 30 minutes a day is a good place to start.
“You walk around [for] a half an hour, if you get tired take a break, but then pick it up again and then start walking some more,” Factora says. “The people who actually get the most benefit from physical activity or exercise are the ones who move from the couch to just getting up and walking around. You get the most benefit from that and you don’t even have to break a sweat.”
Factora says the 30 minutes can be broken into 10-minute increments throughout the day.
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Dennis Mariano, the son of Ted and Lynne, is shown above in a green shirt.He plays the guitar , drums and some vocals with Thunder Body , a raggae band .
THE WAY WE WERE
Rosario Fernandez (left) and Mini Festin (right) during medical internship
L-R: Romulo Par, Joey L, Florante Lomibao, Cesar Llamas, Rose C, unknown, Lew H
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I SEE THE DOG PEOPLE
I see dog people.You do too.They are in your neighborhood, parks, highways and dog shows. In our neighborhood, some religiously take their dogs for a walk. Some have pet owners have no kids. They call their dogs, their kids or family.
Dogs have names, even stray ones in RP have names if you could trace the owner. When we lived in RP, we had a dog named Jerry. We could have name him Bantay after that dog in my first book, but I thought he should be named after people. So we named him Jerry after Jerry Lewis who always made us laughed. Jerry was a puppy when given by a neighbor. He had a thick brown and white fur. He had no tail and I don’t know if he was an expensive breed or was a freak of nature.I used to pick up his fleas and ticks and no sooner I erupted with blisters on my legs and turned to sores. I learned in medical school later that there was a fancy names for those which was impetigo. I cleaned them with warm soap and water and they usually heal.
When Jerry was 4, one day he disappeared and never to be found again. Did a motor vehicle struck him and his body thrown by the river?
Did someone stole him and given as a pet for a child? These were just guesses and more plausible, though we have no proof, he was caught by those who thirst for gin and Tanduay, whenever they see dogs. Jerry was the first and last pet we ever had that I knew, unless you consider pigs and chikens as pets. We had those too. I fed the pigs with darak and water and the chickens with rice seeds.
When I came to America,my family in Quezon City got another dog. Sadly, they wrote me, he suffered the same fate, worst because my father saw a man in a jeep who swung a rope lasso on the dog and drove away. My family gave up raising dogs for good. In the city,we did not have chickens or pigs or for sure the neighbors would complain, besides we had little space for them. I surely missed provincial life then, but not as much for then I was in college, being busy at school. I spent a lot of time studying, which gave me a good excuse from doing household chores. No more pets for me of any kind.
In RP, dogs are usually given by neighbors, while in the US one has to buy them and they could be very expensive especially the pure bred.
If one don’t care, a mestizo dog will be cheaper. A pet store near where we now live is always full and have varieties of pet dogs, some very expensive.
One of the doctors in town has Toyota van exclusively used for his dogs. He owns a Maserati, a Rolls Royce,a Benz and other fancy cars..
He told me he has 8 car garage for his 8 vehicles. One of his bumper stickers shows a picture of a little dog with a caption, the Rolls Royce of dogs. I have not seen it and have no idea what kind it is. It must be expensive.
Dogs in the US are well cared for. They have special food, have to be taken to Vets for Immunizations and even for some minor ailments.
The owners don’t care. Do that CT scan, Chemotherapy, the cost does not matter. They’ll pay for it and cuddle the animal to the Vet day or night.
Grandma at the Nursing Home would have to wait for a visit. She is not as cute. Should the dog die from illness or simply old age, expect some weeping and and wailing, that they would not buy another, it’s just that, their dog was” irreplaceable”, never mind that in the same breed they all look alike. Have you seen those pictures of dogs that look like their owners? You see them too in real life. A walk in the neighborhood, you might see some poodles in tow by owners in white curls. In Winter, some dogs have a body sweater that matches the owners.
Sorry if you live in RP you don’t see this spectacle except in pictures but you would not want to imitate or your neighbors there would think you’ve lost your sanity. Here in the US it is cute , just another show of affection for one’s pet. Some people either deliberately or subconsciously buy one that looks like them. If you are here in the US, you’ve seen them too. You don’t have to go far, they live in your neighborhood.
I like Max dog Magnum. He looks menacing to kids and probably adults too.That’s one well fed dog, even travel with his owners. If he was to be in a flight, there are special cages for him for an extra fee. I’m sure Magnum makes good company better than children fightingat the backseat. I just thought it would be better if he was named after people. After all, dogs are man’s best friend who gives unconditional love which no sane person would do all the time. I would have called him Marvin or Bob. No, not Marvin his son but Lee Marvin or Bob Dole. Won’t you agree?
I see dog people and I know you do too.
Happy Fourth of July. 
JDLeoncio
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Aidan Gabrielle, Charles Dunifer’s first Philippine Grandson
or proclaimed on July 4, 1946. What happened was merely a recognition of Philippine independence proclained on June 12, 1898.
Mini F sitting second from the left in the second row in a Philippine Independence picnic.
MONET’S LA VISIT 5/2012
Evelyn’s stop over in LA
, NAPLES, FLA
Monet’s visit to Sunny Los Angeles
taboc 