My neighbors

Allow me to talk about neighbors at St. Jude Village, City of San Fernando, Pampanga.

In 1979 or forty years ago, St. Jude opened its doors to young families. Many government employees took advantage and settled there. We were one of the settlers.

We became neighbors to many government employees. One, Medy was a middle executive at the Government Service Insurance System. She was married to Joe, a drug detailman. They dearly loved their children especially their son named Caloy. Medy’s mom (Badie) was a seamstress and a cook. She endeared herself to her patrons with her happy disposition. Then, tragedy struck one after the other. Caloy was killed in a car accident. Badie and Joe died on the same week. A person of lesser stuff would have been driven to depression. But not Medy, she moved on with dignity although remembering her beloved ones by walking and bringing flowers to their graves every day. Medy remains to be an inspiration to us – a strong woman of heart and substance.

Two, Mareng Yolly was a court stenographer. Pareng Remigio (Cortez), her husband Michelle was a senior clerk at the Department of Agrarian Reform.

They have three daughters, Marian and Mari

Grace. Remy worked overseas in Saudi but had no choice but to cut short his stint. His beloved Yolly got afflicted with a spleen condition that required 24 hour care. Pareng Remy lovingly attended to the care of Mareng Yolly. Although sickly and pale, Mareng Yolly is a symbol of fulfillment cause of her husband’s love and care. Marian is gainfully employed with the United Nation’s Agency while Grace is a bank manager of Metrobank. Michelle is a homemaker with three healthy sons. Pareng Remy has shown that love knows no bounds – in sickness and in health.

Three, Pareng Dan and Mareng Lolit sent their children to school believing that education is the best legacy that they can bequeath to their children.

True enough, their children Rowena, Reggie, Ronald and Robert finished college education. Ronald is now one of the trusted men in the Department of Labor, Region III. He is also the Chairman of the Pastoral Council of our Parish of St. Jude. Ronald is my godson.

Dan and Lolit have retired – they are on the sun set of meaningful lives as parents and citizens of this great republic.

I am at peace with my neighbors. I share their success and failure. I am happy when they are.