Saturday, December 12, 2009
My Trip To Olongapo City November 14-16, 2009
SJS '57 Mini Reunion
by Dorothy Mae Bennett
Part One - The Journey
It's been years since I visited the place where I had most of my schooling. The short but fulfilling trip was quite worth the effort. The scenes brought back memories, although there's been much change, traces of the past were still vivid.
The journey to Olongapo started at one of the bus stations of the ever famous, one and only, Victory Liner. The only bus station that used to be was in Caloocan, at the outskirts of Manila. Now, they are at different areas. I boarded at the Pasay City station and I was amazed to see a modern air-conditioned bus with a flat screen TV for the passengers' delight. Was I in US or Philippines? Thank goodness, I chose the public transportation as opposed to a private vehicle for a perfect flashback experience, (good excuse for my having diminishing funds and no vehicle). Luckily, I got the front seat, perfect for picture taking.
The whole trip was a very wet one.The storm Ondoy (international name Ketsana) just passed, leaving horrible, devastating disaster at most areas, and the rumor of a second storm Pepeng (international name Parma) ushered me into the Philippines.. This trip showed rice fields on each side of the Pampamga highway submerged by deep muddy flood that depicted passing through a bridge on the ocean. Some houses and business places along the way were also submerged. Despite all these, "Singing In The Rain" or "Raindrops Falling On My Head" were surely appropriate songs. Snack stop was at Dinalupihan, Bataan. Much to my hesitance, I had to choose from an American or Filipino delicacy, quite a variety of them, and I chose putokutsinta glazed with shredded coconut (placed in a seemingly clean plastic container), instead of homemade cheeseburger or hotdog. Hmmm, yum yum, bahala na! Worries set aside, it was a relief! We went through the zigzag enjoyably, still rainy, till the final destination of Ulo Ng Apo. You can't beat the traffic where there are no cabs. I was confused trying to remember the past site. It was like looking for a needle in a haystack.
Part Two - The Reunion
This is the highlight of this trip!. The Reunion portion of the trip may be divided into five different categories namely: Reunion Night, Driving Tour, School Campus, Church In Campus, and Future Venue.
After being met by my new "in-laws" at the only bus station in Olongapo, I was dropped off at St. Jude Family Hospital, an establishment of our classmate, Dr. Mariano (Ning) Ridon. Upon arrival, Ning's family and a former classmate from Iba, Zambales, Teofila Millado-Abdon were more than ready to meet me and vice versa. Soon, we went to Pista Sa Nayon Restaurant, owned and managed by Judith, Ning's beautiful, charming, and classy wife. Former classmates Felicidad dela Cruz-Sionzon and Norma Laje were picked up to join us. The food was excellent, authentic, delightful, and super delicious. I had the exotic mango shakes one after another, alternated occaionally by pineapple shakes. Yumm, Yumm good! I hate to put it down. The dinner was followed by karaoke singing, dancing, chika-chika, and more snacks and desserts, until bedtime. Each member of the Ridon family was an excellent performer in singing and dancing. Felicidad was in the mood to sing and dance too, as well as her daughter. I never thought Teofila and Norma were also "game". Exchanging gifts was part of this event Thanks to everyone!
Bedtime turned out to be a "catching up" slumber party. Teofila and I with my entourage dwelled in one of the suites of the Pista Sa Barrio Inn which was adjacent to the restaurant. What a convenience! Wow! The hot shower was refreshing. I felt right at home!
Breakfast time was again a nourishing experience. How could I ever think of going back home (to US)?! The tropical atmosphere around the restaurant and the inn was carefully, distinctively, and creatively designed.
Sightseeing soon began with Ning himself on the steering wheel. What a privilege and honor! Once again, Felicidad and Norma were picked up and I got to see their respective houses. Each of them handed us some munching delicacies again. After the Kalaklan Bridge, the first site to see was my former house which was used to be #2CBMU (Camp Battalion Motor Unit) otherwise known as Upper Kalaklan. The house was replaced by a motel/hotel unit owned either by Korean or Chinese on the upper half lot area while on the lower half area, the terrace garden was replaced by ravine. Oh well, what can I say? I wish I could buy it back. There are more houses above. There is still a slanted road going to these houses, that is now eroded by heavy rains through the years. The next sites were the beaches, monkey and bat hills, and the cemetery on the hill. Along this vicinity are affluent houses, developed remnants of the US Naval Base which turned into commercial and residential domains. The old Cubi Point is now a Pilot Training Center used mainly by the Koreans. It is an international airport serving only Asia. Shopping at the duty free Freeport Exchange brought back momories of the shopping spree I had as a youngster. Not failing to mention, the beaches are now commercialized recreational areas. What happened to the Half Moon Beach we used to go to and sing the song "Moonlight Bay"? Remember? "We were sailing along" .....?
The hills where the bats and monkeys roam are terrific sights. These lovely creatures seemed harmless and naturally as well as instinctively entertaining. They are motivated in their performances by human presence. The bats squeal as loud as they can for joy. The monkeys exhibit funny gestures. Word of caution though - never have food around you. Other animal places are the Zoobic Safari and the Butterfly Garden, the details of which will be reserved for the future trip.
Other Points of Interest are the Kalaklan Bridge, the Ulo Ng Apo statue at the Rotunda, the famous "covered" Olongapo Market, the City Hall, the Rizal Triangle, and the St. Joseph School (now college) with much upgraded church in the campus. The Asinan Elementary School where I had my intermediate schooling is no longer existent. There are more to see which prompt me to plan my next visit, God willing.
Yes, there is an intention to visit again, perhaps another reunion, and the venue if I remember right will be at the Ridon Mansion located at the Kalayaan section of the SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority). Ok, Ning? This palatioal abode is perfect tor the SJSAA'57 members.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
First September BD celebrant
On September 3, the first birthday celebrant of SJSAA'57 is Sonia Rodriguez-Santos. Hurricane Gustav just came by to greet her but she was so bold that she wanted to go to the beach as she remembered her trip during the Philippine Reunion last March. See the picture on the right. "Watch Out! The skies are gray" However the light shines on her as always. Happy Birthday to our vivacious, lively, generous and wholesome classmate, Sonia dearest.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
2008 SJSAA '57 Philippine Reunion Hosts
A Tribute To Our SJS 2008 Philippine Reunion Batch 57 Hosts
SJS’s 60th Year Grand Alumni Homecoming Part I
Dr. Mariano Ridon And Family
Mariano Ridon, M.D. ,(Batch 57), was born on August 19, 1941, in San Vicente, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. He completed his primary education, graduated as first Honor, at Tapinac Elementary School in Olongapo City, Zambales, Philippines. His secondary education was completed at St. Joseph School, Olongapo City, Zambales in 1957, graduated as valedictorian. Collegiate education was at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, graduated with a degree of Doctor Of Medcine in 1965 with specialties in OB-Gynecology as well as Family Medicine.
After his schooling, he had a very active life in his career and in several civic organizations, obtaining honor recognitions and awards namely:
* Most Outstanding President Physician - Phil. Medical Association, Olongapo City Medical Society 1979-1981
* Most Outstanding Olongapeno Fiesta Chairman 1986
* Most Outstanding Hospital Director - UST Medical Alumni Association - during 1990 UST Grand Alumni
Homecoming
* Most Outstanding President and Chapter - Philippine Hospital Association - Olongapo and Zambales Council
1993, 1994. 1995
* Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM)
* Top Ten Nominees in Medicine 1996
* Dept. of Education - National Category - Ulirang Ama - Ulirang Pamilya 1997 Award
* Chairman - SJS Grand Alumni Homecoming - 1998 - 50th Year Anniversary
He has been the owner and Medical Director of St. Jude Family Hospital in Olongapo City, Zambales, Philippines since obtaining his medical degree up to the present time. He also has been the President of Judimar Enterprises.
He is married to Judith Pantaleon Gonzalez of Castillejos, Zambales, with whom he has seven children (2 boys and 5 girls), all are SJS alumni. His children are:
Maricel G. Ridon, M. D.
Meredith G. Ridon-Rodriguez, R. N.
Madeline G. Ridon-Tolentino, M. D.
Mariane G. Ridon-Barredo, Hospital Administration Masters Degree
Marion G. Ridon, M. D.
Maricar G. Ridon, B. S, in Physiotherapy
Reynante G. Ridon (deceased)
Sons-in-law:
Dino R. Rodriguez - Pol. Science Degree
Marvin M. Tolentino, M. D. (ENT)
Grandsons: Maron and Paulo
Sunday, August 10, 2008
US Reunion Souvenir Program10/08 Posting - Memorable Three Mentors
The 2008 SJS Faculty celebrities
We, the SJSAA 57 express our gratitude to the following teachers who have imparted a great legacy in our lives. They were our mentors for integrity, forbearance, perseverance, enthusiasm in education, and strong determination.
The sister of our very own Batch57 member, Mrs. Marita Daluz-Webster, Sis Lucia is celebrating her golden jubilee of sisterhood this year. She left behind her loving family to join the Franciscan sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in 1956. She had taught many children in different states. She was called “The Flying Nun” due to the fact that she would go to whoever needs her help wherever they may be.
Sister Lucia was one of the first graduates of St. Joseph School (1949). After high school graduation, she entered the University of the Philippines where she obtain her Bachelor of Education Degree in 1953. Subsequently, she became a faculty member of SJS (1953-1956). She continued her education and completed her Masters Degree in Administration and became a principal in other schools. Later on, she became the superintendent of the Catholic Schools in El Paso, Texas. She retired from her work in 2007 but she will always be there for her family and her many friends. In June 2008, she celebrated her Golden Jubilee as a dedicated nun. This joyous celebration of life was attended by relatives and faithful friends. She did follow her dream. She did answer THE CALL.
Another Jubilarian is Mrs. Trinidad Macugay-Guerrero. She was born in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. She completed her secondary education at the Jose Abad Santos High School which was under Arellano University during those times. She then completed her Bachelors Degree in Education at the Far Eastern University in Manila, Philippines. She taught at SJS 1952 to 1958 mainly Home Economics and Physical Education. She left SJS after the graduation of Batch 58 to come to US. Whereas the Batch 58 is celebrating their golden jubilee, so is she. She got married in 1959 and continued her studies. Although she didn’t complete her masters degree in Education, she obtained a certificate on bookkeeping which became her livelihood later. After her husband passed away in 1676, she continued to work until 1986. At 84 she is in good health, loves gardening, and drives her most favorite car 2006 Jaguar. She is happy to see her former students during this reunion.
Another sister of our very own Batch 57 member Dr. Mariano Ridon, Mrs. Felipa Ridon-Strominger was born in Ilocos Sur, Philippines. During her primary and intermediate school years, at Candelaria, Zambales she was promoted twice and skipped grade three and grade five. She completed her secondary education at Naval Reservation Junior College in Olongapo City, Zambales, Philippines as third honor. Fresh from high school and even before attending college, she was called to teach at various schools due to lack of teachers. Her brother Dr. Mariano Ridon was among her students then. She eventually completed her Bachelors Degree in Education at the University of Santo Tomas majoring in English. She taught at SJS 1954 to 1963. She got married in 1965 and had a son. They settled in different states where she taught at some of them. She and her husband stayed in the Philippines for about ten years at one time. While there, she helped the US Navy dependents in their struggle to pass the GED. She is finally settled at Las Vegas, Nevada where she has been for the last 14 years. She still mourns for her husband who passed away in May of this year.
For more detailed biography, please visit :
http://sjsaa57-olongapo-ph.org/jte10x10/ and http://sjsaa57ocph.blogspot.com/
Submitted by Dorothy Mae Bennett, M.D. Batch ‘57
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
My Love Storyby Maria Concepcion dela Rosa-Wolff
'57
When I was just a ‘lil girl (I still am),
A haughty girl of thirteen
Love to me was nothing
And I considered it an ordinary thing.
I liked one “because he’s handsome”
And another “because he’s gallant”
Nothing mattered provided he’s cute
Even if he be the dumbest mute.
But when I turned sixteen
And I met a boy of seventeen
So fascinated was I to him
That I didn’t know what world I was in.
This went on and on
until I was eighteen
Love to me then was something
Which was such a wonderful thing!
I liked the way he combed his hair
Just to sniff his YSL pomade when he was near
was already ‘heaven’ to me.
I ooh’d and aah’d at his daily white attire
Perfectly worn with utmost care..
He was an Atenean from Davao
A perfect gentleman at all times
It was love at first sight
For the both of us from day one.
But our destiny wasn’t meant to be
For fate intervened along the way
My strict brother got in the way
When Paul professed his love for me.
A Beta Sigman in UP
He took law to heart
Became a successful lawyer and professor
A long-time court judge soon after that.
We parted ways when we graduated
He went back to Davao and I to Manila
But distance could not keep us apart
I constantly thought of him and he of me.
We crossed paths several years later
and over lunch told our own stories
He said he was going to prove himself worthy
and woo me back after his bar
Only to find out I had gotten married
on the day he was to take it.
He waited much too long, he said,
something he regretted
for the rest of his life
Drinking his wine with shaky hands,
He related sadly that while he was a success
Things would have been different
Had it been the two of us together.
And I was too proud to call him,
or write him, I said,
For fear of being misjudged wrongly.
Pride, oh, foolish pride
See what you had gotten us into
A love lost, forever gone.
And now, I could not help but think
Of how my life would have been with him
Four lovely, chinky-eyed kids …
All of us happily playing
in our backyard of orchards and roses
in beautiful, scenic Davao.
‘First love never ever dies,’ so they say
And that has been true for me
And maybe for each one of you, too.
So go tell your children and loved ones,
When love beckons the first time,
Make it happen, don’t wait
Follow your heart and have no regrets,
You may never have another chance
Your chance of a lifetime
of true happiness and bliss.
- - oo --
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