Yesterday, I made a comment on a picture on Facebook. Nancy & Glenn Elwood, our dear friends from Kentucky were celebrating their anniversary and this is what I wrote on Nancy’s timeline:
“Stay sweet, stay strong.
The road ahead is long.
Trust the Lord all along.”
This dedication has triggered an avalanche of words about anniversary greetings. I was simply inspired to write especially that my wife and I just celebrated our 33 years anniversary.
I sat down and penned the following greetings in half an hour. Please feel free to use them. I’ll be honored if you do. I simply request that you don’t forget to acknowledge the author…your friend Gil Valenzuela.
A wife to her husband :
“I loved you and I love you still,
even if your hair becomes grey and thin.
Or nothing there is left but the shiny skin.”
A husband to his wife
“Through the years your eyes still glow.The sparks really show.Your beauty within and without are your best assets, I fell about.I love you Dear!”
Husband and wife to each other
“Yesterday it’s just you and me. We’re happy as can be.
Today, it’s us, our kids and grandkids!Look how many now are we!
Tomorrow,We may not be around. But gee! we’ve contributed some good to humankind!”
From a family member or a friend to the couple celebrating their anniversary.
“Your life together glows like a candle in the dark. Leaving in our hearts a very special mark.Your marriage is a champion that deserves every couple’s emulation”.
From a husband to his wife and vice versa
“As the years go bymy love for you is sky high.I still have the cloud-nine experience as we kiss and hold hands!”
From a husband to his wife
Through the years, I thought I knew you enough.
Yet I still discover a diamond on the rough.You never cease to amaze mewith your graceful, wonderful act of
kindness,
tenderness,
silliness,
and
loveliness.
I won’t stop loving and discovering you my dear!”
Would you give me a shout out if you like these greetings!
God bless us all. May we all have more anniversaries to celebrate!
That prideful person says: “Excuse me? I know other ways, and the best was made by me!”
Envy is deadly
Looking at his neighbor while riding his lawn mower he said; I want that house, I want that car, I want a greener lawn. The riding mower struck a tree. It overturned and underneath was he!
Anger is deadly
Murder and homicide are done out of anger.
“I felt the knife in my hands and she laughed no more.” Says Delilah’s jealous, angry and murderous lover.
Gluttony is deadly
“Super size this, double that, extra toppings, three servings of that, and one more doughnut”. All the added calories, sugar, carbs and fat make the liver and pancreas work really hard. Result; hypertension, diabetes, overweight, high cholesterol, arthritis and gout; All kinds of chronic illnesses sprout, because people eat their hearts out.
Lust is deadly
If you are a one woman man-no extra marital affair, and no pornography, you sure will be happy and so is your wifey and the whole family. But if you are a cheater, you better beware, you’d kill her heart, you’d hurt her soul, you’d hurt your kids, and before you know it they become estranged and she’d love you no more.
Greed is deadly
When money and material things become the focus of your life, no time for spiritual things, just things and things and stuff, real happiness is absent and joy is never felt. Instead you feel remised for material things are all there is.
I was 13 years old when I was introduced to the fascinating world of photography. The year was 1970 when the hype were the black and white and sepia photography. It was still the hey day of professional photographers, for they were the only ones who owned cameras –very different from today’s technological boom when everyone has their own gadgets equipped with cameras.
Consequently, there seems to be lesser need for professional shooters anymore, for anyone can take pictures of themselves. Hence, the selfie!
I learned the rudiments of photography from a man named Jose Escuadro who I fondly called “Kuya Lugo”. He taught me how to shoot, develop negatives and pictures the organic way–in the dark room.
Business was brisk at Golden Art Studio, Cabatuan City, Philippines. Rush ID and passport pictures were the daily cash generators and Kuya Lugo needed help. Our studio was the official photographer of the Governor’s office and therefore my boss had to attend to his shooting assignments. So, I was entrusted to man the studio. But I need to be trained to do the job.
After teaching me the process-from loading films,shooting, developing negatives to enlarging/printing on photo paper, Kuya Lugo made me do a lot of practice. He gave me several rolls of 35 mm films and stacks of photo printing papers to practice with. The studio was all mine and I took the liberty to experiment.
The Aha Moment!
That was when I discovered that I could shoot myself! I mounted the 35mm camera on a tripod and set it on a timer, I ran in front of the camera and sat for a pose ….5-4-3-2-1 and the shutter came off…..voila.
I took my own picture.
I did it all by myself,
just me and me alone.
No help from anyone!
Isn’t that what you call selfie?
On this self portrait, I was experimenting with lighting. I wanted to see how I look with one side of my face lit and the other shadowed like the photo of the then teen idol Tirso Cruz III I saw on the cover of Song Hits. I was quite happy with the result and my boss gave me two thumbs up for my work.
I was also Kuya Lugo’s photography assistant. He tagged me along in his shooting projects. We took pictures of graduation, capping ceremonies, ROTC programs, beauty pageants, school programs, government projects like the Pantabangan Dam, weddings, baptisms, funerals and many more.
He said I was a fast learner.
Once we had a wedding shoot. He gave me the camera to shoot the wedding ceremony. I was doing well until the groom who looked visibly worried came to my boss to inquire why in the world, a young tot is covering the most important event of his life-his wedding.
My boss assured him that I was doing a good job. I was very elated by that gesture. I felt like a mature man for the first time.
I sat with Kuya Lugo many nights a week in the dark room developing negatives and pictures. I got used to the strong chemical odor of acetic acid and sulfates. In no time I mastered the use of the three-basin baths- developer, stop bath and fixer.
Although photography did not become my profession, I grew up as an enthusiast. But there was a time I had a stint as a portrait photographer at Walmart studio. And while working there, I practiced what I discovered as a young photographer-shoot my self- aka selfie.
In Retrospect
I am very thankful that I’ve acquired a professional skill at a very young age of 13. I thought then that I was just playing alone…selfieying.
My life is blessed with both filial and extra-filial relationships. The latter gave me another dimension of social circle which is wider and greater in number.
I forged my special bond with these extra-ordinary folks some forty years ago during my college years. Being away from our blood families, we found common grounds to bind, support and encourage one another and experience joys and pains of life together while studying at Central Luzon State University. The result: We became a family!
SENSE in 1977.
We were one in our purpose of enriching our lives through rigorous and serious approach to education. We were united in our hopes of forming friendships that built and shaped us into better human beings.
SENSE- Search for Educational Nobility and Social Enrichment- is a student organization that gave us focus on two aspects of life, essential to survive and thrive the rigorous college life in CLSU and beyond. For us it was a better alternative to the Greek-lettered organizations often associated with rivalries and conflicts with other student coalitions.
Dr. Flor Amor Monta envisioned a brotherhood organization composed of individuals with wits and wisdom, hardworking and tenacious, ambitious and driven. With Rodrigo Dioso and Bobby Manansala, the initial/founding group was organized to which I belong. Dr. Monta personally chose students who demonstrated such characters. The succeeding batch of members were added through careful selection.
Fast forward 40 years later, members of SENSE had become well-accomplished in the professions they chose. Many are occupying goverment positions in the agriculture sectors. Others became educators and heads of educational institutions. Some have great success as entrepreneurs. Others found themselves shifting professions from agriculture based to medical, financial and other disciplines.
The brotherhood formed during our prime years had blossomed and bore fruits akin to that of a real family. It withstood the test of time and space. Forty years had passed and we’re still connected! Our first grand reunion on January 6-7, 2017 renewed and sealed our commitment to our organization and to each other.
In the intervening years, our relationships were fortified by webs of connections. We became – ninongs and ninangs of our siblings making us compadres and comadres. We sought one another as primary sponsors for our children’s wedding. We consulted on business dealings and employments. Some became confidants to one and another, and provided shoulders to cry on. In many instances, we either provided or received financial help. We helped members find employment. We welcomed each other warmly in our homes. We extended our families to one another widening further our social circles. We became accountable to one another providing concerned rebukes when necessary, for the betterment of a brother or sister.
This is my other family. I’m very proud of it. My brothers and sisters are spread far and wide- around the Philippines and across the globe. I have a special privilege of going to various places and have someone to welcome me with open arms. I just did that in my recent vacation. SENSE gave me a family and homes around the world! As I write this blog, I’m on my way to San Miguel, Bulacan to meet again my SENSE brothers hosted by our common friend Rupert De San Jose.
Visited Brod Antonio Co in Parañaque City with Nick Soliman, Rogelio Manabat and Norman Gabagat.
Visited Sis Mila Robeniol Galvez in Laoag, Ilocos Norte Visited Brod Samuel Robeniol in his Antipolo home.
My 34-days of vacation in the Philippines are nearing completion. These days are the most relaxed, stress-free, fun and peaceful times of my life in the last 16 years! That’s how vacation should be. What a gift! I’m very grateful.
I am dedicating my next several blogs on the highlights of this memorable vacation covering the following topics: family, friends, places I visited, food I ate, things I did, etc. Let’s start with myFamily.
Reuniting with my blood relatives after many years brought floods of tears to my eyes. But those tears are a product of joy that aided an enormous release of emotional strain. It was as if the pains of the years gone by were washed away.
Seeing my siblings, hugging and kissing them, hearing their voices, meeting their children and grandchildren revived the special feeling of belongingness.
There is a sense of pride and assurance knowing that I have a huge tribe, a thriving clan that is doing a tremendous job of proliferating our family’s existence, keeping our family traditions and continuing with zealousness our family’s faith.
This is my wife’s Family. Gilbert Olivares, wife Eva and sons: Gelmark, Kelvin and Gilbert Jr. (not in picture)
I felt my heart jumped several times when I beheld my nieces and nephews and grandchildren bearing a resemblance either of our late father and mother or a beautiful combination of both. The prominent cheekbones is a facial feature our genes carry with dominance. Our love for music is passed on with passion. The love of God and His ministries through the church is practiced with faithfulness. My Father: Igmedio Valenzuela
My Mother Basilisa Emperio
I found this precious picture of Mother and I, ca 1985 taken when I was to leave for the Sultanate of Oman.I inherited those high cheekbones from both of my parents. They are now both citizens of heaven where I am bound to…..one day, in God’s time.
“Dancing with my Sister”Babbeth, my personal assistant, driver, cook, stylist, adviser while vacationing. Thank you Ate Babbeth!
At last, after a long while, I’ll set foot in my native land again.
It’s been sixteen years since I last visited the Philippines. I was away for a long time but my roots are still deeply planted and and thriving in the land of my birth. Here are the formidable roots:
My siblings are all in the Philippines.
My sisters: (L-R) Babbeth, Gloria, Dimi, Petronia and Susana.
Manang Gloria has 3 kids: Girlie, Glenda and Jun-jun, and 5 grandkids. Ate Dimi has three girls: Ardie Lyn, Rodi Lee and Roseval. Susana has 2 boys: Arvie Jonah and Sam.
My sister Feliciana went to be with the Lord some years ago. She has 4 children: Almira, Alfredo Jr, Airene and Aimee.7 grandkids.
It will be a swell reunion when I get home. I miss them and they miss me!
My Home church is in the Philippines
I grew up in the Wesleyan Church (formerly Pilgrim Holiness). The church was my second home. There was a time when I lived in the Cabanatuan parsonage when my Ninong, the late Rev. Alfredo Guiang temporarily adopted me. I was nurtured at the Wesleyan Church from childhood and as a Christian young man. It’s through its faithful ministries that I was called to be in full time ministry. I am now serving my Lord through this church. I long to meet my brethren- the old and the new.
I wish to meet my fellow Wesleyan pastors and glean from their experiences: their hard work of evangelization and discipleship resulting to the growth of the church . I wish to congratulate them for the job well done. The Wesleyan Church in the Philippines is growing by leaps and bounds!
SENSE Grand Reunion.
My college life was influenced and impacted by a special group called SENSE. (Search for Educational Nobility and Social Enrichment). It’s the equivalent of a fraternity where lifetime brotherhood and friendships were forged. I will reunite with my SENSE family and that’s very exciting!
CLSU Grand Reunion
It was in 1981 that I exited this famous gate. I will enter this gate again in 2017. CLSU, my alma mater (nurturing mother) had shaped my life in many ways. My professional and social life were the precious gifts she gave me. When I left her portals in 1981, she gave me a key that opened many doors of opportunity. It allowed me to share my agricultural expertise, travel and live in many parts of the world. I am truly grateful.
The CLSU alumni association contacted me lately informing me of an award to be given during the February 4 homecoming. I am humbled by that gesture. For whatever it is that I have accomplished, it was God who helped me. I give back to God the glory! It’s not the recognition that beckons me home. It is the excitement of meeting the wonderful people that I had crossed path with in those prime years of my life.
I’d like also to meet my high school batchmates and teachers. Reminiscing the high school days simply makes me feel young again!
Philippine Wesleyan College, my High School Alma Mater.
Yes, my family, my friends, my church and my Alma Maters, I’ll be home soon!!!
I left my heart in the Philippines. But I was ready to sacrifice for the welfare of my new family.
When I signed a two-year contract with Oman Holdings International, I braced myself to be separated from my family for two long years. Just like many other OFWs, that’s the sacrifice I had to make.
Snail mail was the only means of communication. My wife and I promised each other to write a letter every week with my baby daughter’s pictures in her mail. I received those correspondence on Mondays. My British boss Bob Carrington would notice my hyper happy mood during those days. And he would just smile and shake his head watching me got excited opening and reading my mails. Sometimes, I would show Bob my baby’s pictures.
I watched my daughter grow in every picture I received. How I wish I was there to be a part of her life. It would be many months before I see her again and by that time she won’t be a baby anymore. I wonder how she will react when we meet again.
Professional growth was one of my consolations on being away from home. My job as an Agricultural Supervisor honed me in the areas of landscaping and irrigation installation and maintenance, and farm development. It also gave me an opportunity to mingle and work with other nationalities and learn new languages in the process. I gained a working knowledge of Arabic and Urdu which I still use to this day.
CLSU Agri Engineers : Anselmo Cudal, Samuel Robeniol, Antonio Veloso, and Gil Valenzuela hired by Oman Holdings International 1985
My brother Sammy and I trying the brand new stadium seats.
I also had an opportunity to grow in my Christian faith as I fellowshipped with other Christian expatriates. I strove to know more about my faith by regularly reading the Bible and attending a small Bible study group.
One day while on the job site at Bausher Stadium during a lunch break, Bob Carrington gave us a surprise visit. He found me and my workers having a siesta. The landscape laborers were taking a power nap while I was reading my pocket size Gideon Bible. “Why are you wasting your time reading that? Bob asked me with a grin. “Bob, I’m not wasting my time, reading the Bible is the best use of time.” I answered. ” Jesus said, man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” I’m feeding my soul and spirit. I’m very far from my family and reading the Bible gives me comfort and keeps me on track. You must also read the Bible, you also need it, it is the food for your soul, it will give answers to the questions of life.” I boldly declare to my boss. He did not respond. He just stared at me for a moment. Then we talked about work.
Several months after that conversation, and on my almost one year of working in Oman, Bob Carrington summoned me to his office. “Gil, I know you miss your family very much. Get ready, I’m sending you home in two weeks. You can now book your flight.”
At first, I didn’t know how to react to that news. I wasn’t suppose to go home until I finished my two-year contract. “Bob, are you firing me? Why? Bob gave a big laugh. “Of course not. Why will I do that when you’re one of my best man? It’s good for you and for the company if you take a break. I’m giving you one month leave with pay and a round trip ticket.”
I can’t believe what I just heard. I was simply overwhelmed by the good news. I gave my boss a big hug and a humongous “Thank You” from the bottom of my heart while I let out generous tears of joy!
While on my way out of Bob’s office he said something in a soft and serious voice. “By the way Gil, I started reading the Bible, I’m now in the book of Isaiah. Jenny and I are attending the Friday evening service at the Protestant Church in Ruwi. You’re right, I needed the Bible.”
I thought I saw some tears while Bob was saying that. “Oh, I’m very happy for you Bob.”I could not find anything else to say as I was very overwhelmed with the big waves of emotions from everything that I just heard. “God bless you Bob, and thank you again.”
I left Bob’s office mesmerized, stunned, overjoyed and very grateful. My Father God loves me. He gives pleasant surprises. He knows how to convert my tears into joy. He even uses me for His good purposes. Thank you Lord Jesus.
What a wonderful time to be reunited with my family. Little Gilda was about to turn one year old when we met again. At first she was aloof and didn’t like me. But it didn’t take too long before she got attachéd to her Dad. Blood is thick and it binds real strong. That was a swell time! But I need to go back to work and parting time broke out hearts again.
The long separation from my wife and child cannot go on any longer. It’s not God’s will for a husband and wife to be separated from each other. Somethings needed to be done.
God’s Mysterious Ways
When I went back to the Sultanate of Oman, I brought with me copies of my wife’s professional credentials. I was hoping that somehow I could get her a job in Oman, and in that way we could be together.
I heard from a friend that there was an opening for a computer operator/receptionist at Ruwi Hotel in Muscat, Oman. I called and made an appointment in behalf of my wife and a schedule for interview was set.
I took a day off to go to Ruwi Hotel. It was an unusually very pleasant day with much lower temperature. The sky was hazy with patches of heavy dark clouds in the horizon-a very untypical day in Oman.
Ruwi is an old city with narrow streets. The hotel is located at a carved out mountain side. Instead of parking at the hotel’s parking lot, I decided to find a public parking space a few blocks away to while away some time as I made it earlier than the scheduled interview.
With a Manila envelope containing Edita’s resume under my arm, I started walking towards the hotel saying a prayer for God’s intervention about my wife’s possible employment in Oman. “Lord please open a door for my wife’s employment here in Oman so that we won’t be separated anymore.”
I was walking towards Ruwi Hotel when suddenly, there was a heavy downpour. I ran to the nearest building to seek cover. I helped myself into the lobby of a building. While waiting for the rain to stop, I got curious of the pictures hanging on the walls. First, I learned that I was at Sultan Qaboos University Buildings and Grounds Project office. There were pictures and maps of what seemed as an on-going constructions of buildings in a huge area outside of Muscat. From reading, I learned that the first university in Oman will open on October 1986.
I read further that the office I bumped into is hiring maintenance engineers for buildings and grounds. My mouth opened in excitement and surprise. I quickly looked for names of people involved in the project. I found a memorandum on the bulletin board signed by Engr. Adam Brooks, Director of Sultan Qaboos University Buildings and Grounds Department.
Something in my heart urged me not waste this opportunity. After saying a short prayer, I mustered some courage to confidently approached the lady receptionist at the lobby and inquired. “Miss, is Mr. Brooks in his office today? “Yes he is,Do you have any appointment with him? The beautiful Indian lady receptionist asked me. “No, but I’m just taking a chance in case he’s available. She took the phone and called the boss. “Mr. Brooks, there is a gentleman here who wants to talk to you. He has no appointment but he’s wondering if you might be available.” “Send him in.” I heard their conversation because Mr. Brook’s office was just next door.
There was a surge of excitement in my heart. I had to calm myself down. The turn of event was a complete surprise. I was ready to sell my wife’s credentials as a secretary or receptionist. But here I was ready to present her best resume as a civil engineer where she’s very good at. God was clearly opening a door!
The receptionist ushered me into Mr. Adam Brooks’ office.
I extended my hand to greet the director with a firm handshake. “Good morning Mr. Brooks, thank you sir for letting me in!
“What can I do for you young man? He asked. Mr. Brooks was a jolly British old man judging from his demeanor. He spoke with a beautiful English accent. His bearing made me very comfortable. He did not invite me to sit. Instead, he went back to what he was was doing-polishing a tiny animal figure in a miniature lathe machine. “I think better when I’m working with my hands,” He said.
Sir, I was on my way walking to Ruwi Hotel to interview for a job for my wife. When suddenly the rain poured.”
“Isn’t that strange? This is my first time to see a heavy downpour here in Muscat and I’ve been here for five years.” Mr. Brooks interjected.
“Oh, yes sir. I believe God made it rain so I could be here. I just happened to seek cover and I found myself in your building. My wife is a civil engineer and I just read that you are hiring maintenance engineers.” It would be best if she will be hired as an engineer rather than a secretary or receptionist.” Isn’t it sir?
Mr. Brooks, here’s my wife’s resume. I’d like you to please look at it and consider her for a job in your project. I took the documents out of the wet Manila envelop. I wasted no time. I found an opening and I went right through it without hesitation.
On hearing my dialogue, Mr Brooks stopped working on his hobby. He turned off the lathe machine and proceeded to sit behind his desk. He also motioned me to sit down.
Did you say that your wife is an engineer? He took the documents I was handing him while looking and listening to me intently.
Yes sir, she is a very accomplished engineer. She was involved with some very interesting projects in the Philippines like the design oh the first ever nuclear power plant and the Light Railway Transit in Manila.
Now I really got Mr. Brook’s attention. He started perusing my wife’s documents. “And she can type 80 words per minute blinfolded? Mr. Brooks was reading the section I’ve prepared for the Ruwi Hotel job.
“Oh, yes sir. 80 words per minute blindfolded with very minimal error.” That’s very impressive? And she is a civil engineer? “Yes sir, ” I answered.
“Yes, we’re looking for civil, electrical and mechanical engineers for the maintenance of the university complex. But the problem is-the university may not want a lady engineer on the team. This is the Middle East … you know.”
You’ll not regret hiring my wife in your team. She will be a good asset.
What about you? Are you looking for a job? What do you do? No sir, I’m not looking for a job for myself. I am currently employed as an agricultural engineer at Oman Holdings International (OHI). I’m looking for a job for my wife so we can be together in Oman. OHI? Do you know Bob Carrington? Bob bids for a landscaping job at the university.
“Yes sir, I know Bob Carrington, he’s my boss!
“Mr. Brooks, please help me bring my wife to Oman by hiring her in your maintenance team.”
“I could probably pull some strings but I cannot promise any positive result. The critical part is securing a “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”
Mr. Brooks and I had a talk for almost two hours like we were old friends. He shared stories about his family, his hobbies and interests and his long years as an engineer. Tea was brought to us by his secretary. I felt so special for having been accommodated the way he did. I made sure I communicated my desire to unite my family.
Before I left, he gave me instructions to complete the application to be sent to SQU in Al Khoud.
The process took eight long months. My wife was finally hired by the SQU Buildings and Grounds Department. She was the only lady engineer on the team for all 10 years that she worked there.
My wife arrived in Oman in October 1986. Up to this time, I still marvel about that stormy day in Ruwi. God sent the rain! God’s masterful hands ordered all my steps that led me to the right place and right person that provided my wife the right job. I praise the mighty name of Jesus!When Edita arrived in Oman I took her to a Garden in Seeb that I developed and maintained.
I will tell the story of the birth of our son Gilson in the next blog issue. Thanks for reading my friends. Please share this to your family and friends. God bless you!!!
Exclaimed my conservative friend who has an opinion that a pastor like me should not set foot on the “Sin City.”
“Yes, I went to Vegas without my wife and I had a swell time.”
That made my friend even more upset and dismayed. And I had to explain myself.
“Well friend”, I said, “Do you know that you can go to the so-called “sin city” of Las Vegas, have fun, enjoy your time and be extremely encouraged and richly blessed?
“What? How?”
Find out how I did it.
Please read on.
I will tell you some interesting details of what I saw and what I did in Las Vegas. Although in doing so, I am going against the famous Vegas mantra: “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.
From the Carran airport, I took a shuttle bus instead of a taxi to go to my hotel-Gold Coast Hotel and Casino which is the venue of the CLSU 5th grand reunion. The shuttle bus is cheaper and it gave me a free tour around the city as it dropped passengers/tourists to their respective hotels. My hotel was the farthest and the last stop for the shuttle. So I got to see many other hotels including the MGM where my idol Manny Paquiao famously fought his big boxing matches.
The bus was full and from the sounds of conversations, people were very eager and couldn’t wait to let loose of themselves and enjoy their time. The travel to my hotel took us through the “Strip” area where the famous Ceasar’s Palace is prominently located- where Celine Dione performs.
We passed by the famous Bellagio where you can watch and enjoy the fountain dancing with music and spectacular display of lights . It is best to watch at night. Mandalay Bay, Hooters, and many more attractions are also located on the Strip. One cannot miss the announcements of major shows as they were prominently displayed on gigantic billboards.
Checking in at my hotel, the first thing that got my attention was the overpowering odor of cigarette smoke in the lobby. I felt like I was transported back to the 70s and 80s when smoking was allowed and legal inside an air conditioned building. And for a health junkie like me, that was a big turn off.
The huge hotel lobby is a gambling den, where you can see all kinds of electronic slot machines, gambling tables, computer monitors and a whole array of image/noise generating gambling paraphernalias. The whole setting was a picture of another world to me.
But I was determined to enjoy and make the most of my stay in Vegas.
Exploring the casino area further, I was glad to see a coffee shop, (I spotted a corner where I could sit and write my blog while sipping Starbucks grande); A huge buffet restaurant, Subway Sandwhich, and a Chinese restaurant specializing in different kinds of noodles.
Of course my eagerness was triggered not by what the city had to offer. I’m excited to meet my fellow CLSU alumni.
And what a thrill it really was to fellowship with many wonderful graduates of CLSU.
When Engr. Gerry Galinato, the Alumni Association president learned that I was attending the reunion, he assigned me to deliver the invocation in each of the meeting. Having given that assignment, I realized I must act like the reunion Chaplain. I was very glad that God is acknowledged in the gathering of CLSU alumni. I took the assignment earnestly as it was a special privilege to represent my people before our Mighty God. I asked the Holy Spirit to anoint my words and my actions as I mingled with my fellow alumni. (The text of my prayers for each session is published at the end of this article.)
The reunion started off with a sumptuous Filipino buffet. The dinner gathering was very festive as everyone came in their colorful Hawaiian attire. I must admit I ate my heart out like I’d never had Filipino food for a long time.
I have my own buffet at Mabuhay Restaurant in Chicago but it’s different when someone else did the cooking.
The second day was the general assembly meeting and before any business was conducted, I was called to do the invocation. The assembly was highlighted the sharing of success stories by three alumni: Dr. Padilla, Dr. Firma Viray and Jun Espejo.
Dr. Padilla was the founder of He is also a savvy businessman setting up
Dr. Firma Viray waIopportunity to share and pray with several people attending the grand reunion.
The young man who read the guest speaker’s address, Engr. Sonny Sicat, a son of CLSU alumnus Dr. Sicat shared his story of his recent bout with cancer and how he survived. I could not resist praying for and with my fellow cancer survivor. So in the midst of the drowning gala music, we bowed our heads and humbled ourselves before our Great Healer! I’m sure he heard us! While there was dancing and merrymaking I went around meeting and talking to my fellow alumni and their spouses. Whenever I had a chance, I held their hands and offered a prayer.
I shared a room with my fellow alumnus and former buddy in cultural group-my friend Manny Buado who was the co-emcee during the big gala night. It turned out that my good friend (and his wife- not present in the event) were leaders in their charismatic group in Toronto, Canada. We started each morning with sharing and devotional prayer.
It was a joy to be reunited with my coach Tess Galamay Shiner. She was the CLSU WATC Corp Commander back in our college days. She was the chaperone and coach of the CLSU delegation to Cebu when we competedn for the national oratorical contest.
On Sunday morning, my co-engineering alumnus and my fellow Collegian writer Dr. Carlos Carriaga invited me to attend s worship service at a nearby church then proceeded to the picnic.
During the picnic at the park, I went around talking to my co-alumni. Many of them requested to be prayed for. I said “Yes” and I did it right there laying my hand on them as I prayed.
It was a pleasure to be reunited with my batch mates (80’s graduates) Edgar and Ma. Excelsis Orden. Dr. Edgar Orden.
Now you know why I enjoyed my weekend in Vegas. I had fond memories, I was charged and inspired. I was enriched and above all, I was blessed!
The Grand Reunion Prayers:
The General Assembly
We offer to you our time together.
We invite you to be the special guest in our gathering. Because when you are present, there is peace, there is understanding, there is unity and there is harmony. When you are present, there is something good and beautiful that happens. Lord, allow us to accept the challenges that will be presented to us. Allow us to be a conduit of your blessings because you have faithfully and generously blessed lus. We pray for the continued progress of our beloved CLSU through the leadership of Dr. Abella. Bless him with renewed vision and may that vision be accomplished and come into fruition. May our Alma Mater continue to a beacon of truth and knowledge that will contribute to the prosperity of our nation.
Gala Night
Gracious God,
You brought us together tonight from far and near. You’ve provided all that we need that we may be together. You’ve raised up leaders to steer us to accomplish noble things.
Lord, tonight we celebrate your goodness, your faithfulness and your loving kindness.
Today Lord, in our general assembly, we have been inspired by the generosity of those who shared their treasures and wealth. We listened in awe as we heard stories of great success from Jun Espejo and Dr. Romeo Padilla. And we were challenged to dream big dreams as Dr. Eliseo Ruiz cast before us the vision for a “Golden Grain Tower” , and with a dream of one day seeing a Noble Laureate from among the CLSU graduates. Lord, we do not doubt that this dream could be realized, because in you nothing is impossible.
God , we continue to pray for CLSU and its leaders. I pray for Dr. Abella and his team. May you empower them to accomplish great things for CLSU. I also pray for the leaders of CLSU International Alumni Association as they continue to serve for another year. Bless them, guide them.
Tonight Lord as we gather to celebrate. May our merry-making be an expression of joy and happiness for all that you’ve done all that you will do to us.,
Note to my readers who are not from CLSU. I invite you to read on . You may not know the people I’m writing about, but their achievements and contribution to society are significant and inspiring.
My eagerness in going to Las Vegas was inspired not by what the city had to offer but by the opportunity of rubbing shoulders with some of CLSU’s great achievers. For the second time, after more than three decades, I got to see and reconnected with my fellow Central Luzon State University alumni. I am always inspired to hear their success stories. What a thrill it really was to mingle and fellowship with these wonderful CLSU graduates.
Here’s a small sampling of CLSU alumni outstanding achievements:
Drs. Edison and Nenet Cabacungan were both graduates of CLSU in 1959. They did masters and doctoral works in their respective fields-home economics and agricultural economics in the United States. They both served for more than 30 years as educators at California State University. These faithful alumni are working hard to grow the Endowment Fund to provide scholarships to the poor but smart young people.
Dr. Terry Abella is the current president of Central Luzon State University . He is a multi-awarded fellow in the field of Fisheries Science. Dr. Abella’s focus in this field of study was undivided as he pursued this scientific discipline from bachelors to masters and doctoral level. He is well published and widely cited in his line of expertise. His ability to focus is an asset that is now employed in leading CLSU to greater heights.
Engineer Gerry Galinato the president of the International Alumni Association (3rd from left) had served the State of Idaho in various capacities such as Energy Specialist, Water Resources Engineer etc. for more than 35 years. He is currently serving as Technical Engineer at Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
Dr. Eliseo Ruiz, Agricultural Engineering graduate in the 1970s was an editor-in-chief of CLSU Collegian. Dr. Ruiz was a former President of CLSU. His invention, a unique blend of organic fertilizer won several awards and recognitions around the world. His product is now being used in many Asian countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Thailand, etc. Recently, it was noticed by a British agricultural expert who designed the entire irrigation network in Kenya. After several experiments that yielded excellent results, manufacturing plants are now being setup in Africa to mass produce his very promising product.
His organic concoction was also tested in California- from Napa Valley down to San Diego and Mexico, and the results are staggering. The curious American who introduced the product to various California farms was very convinced of its potency that she plans to show it to her friend Bill Gates. Who knows what’s going to happen if the benevolent philanthropist becomes convinced of the product’s impact on global food production.
Had his invention not been registered as a commercial entity, the Philippines would have had it’s first Nobel Laureate.
Another amazing invention by a CLSU graduate was introduced to us during the reunion by a young fellow, who even after several set backs did not give up but persevered instead. Jun Espejo did not have masters nor doctorate degrees under his sleeve, but his curiosity led him to some amazing agricultural technology never tapped before. His product and method are revolutionizing the production of fruits and vegetables in the Philippines. No more waiting for five long years to produce mango crop. He was able to cut the process such that even a six-month old tree can produce fruits. His agricultural products also gave solution to vegetable production. The technology is now being adapted in several regions of the Philippines. Governors of different provinces would invite him to consult on their agricultural issues.
In the area of animal science, my former fellow Collegian writer, now a Professor VI at the College of Agriculture, Dr. Antonio Barroga takes pride in a new revolutionized swine and poultry production. He was personally involved in conducting field experiments using Dr. Eliseo Ruiz’s invention. This technology render an odorless and fly free production of swine and poultry. If you are interested in knowing more about this revolutionized method, please visit : “Livestock Odor Eraser and Flies Free Company.”
My co-engineering alumnus Dr. Francis Cuaresma found a way of extending the shelf life of mango. His technology process can make green mangoes stay green for up to two months. This breakthrough in crop handling has won awards for its economic merit. This technique will be useful in exporting the Philippine mango world-wide.
Dr. Gilbert Sigua is a USDA soil scientist who did a very important research on “Managing Water Availability and Quality to Maintain or Increase Agricultural Production, Conserve Natural Resources, and Enhance the Environment. He travels around the world consulting in the area of soil and water management and conservation. His wife Celia, my co-alumnus in Agri engineering field is in medical research.
Samuel and Diosdado Robeniol were CLSU alumni who had degrees in area of agriculture engineering and agriculture respectively. But they both shifted to other professions. The Robeniol brothers both enlisted in US military service. Samuel was in the army and Diosdado was in the navy. After Samuel completed his military service, he pursued the nursing profession. Diosdado continued his service as a civilian employee working as a maintenance crew in a naval base. The Robeniol brothers represent some number of CLSU graduates who shifted to second careers and demonstrated good success.
From employment to business is another career change that some CLSU graduates have pursued. Engr. Rodrigo Dioso ventured in establishing a call center in Ilo-ilo city. He left corporate America and went back to the Philippines to outsource employment for a health care business. His three-year-old company is poised to expand as an agreement with CLSU is bring drafted. The university will partner with Engr. Dioso in establishing a state of the art call center facility on campus. This will also serve as a training center for students preparing to become call center agents.
myJOURNEY 
