Assumpta Magazine 2009 Final

Messages
OCTOBER 2009 THE OFFI CI AL NEWS MAGAZI NE OF ASSUMPTI ON ALUMNAE ASSOCI ATI ON
Assumpta
The Story of the outpouring
of Gods Love for Assumption
and the legacy of St.
Marie Eugenies Vision of
Transformative Education
Assumption
The Sacred Space
Women of Faith,
Women of Action
The AAA
Presidents
12
34
06
14
39
Contents
MESSAGES
Sr. Maria Josefna Matias, r.a. Provincial Superior
Sr. Gertrude Borres, r.a. College President
Sr. Luz Emmanuel Soriano, r.a. AAA Adviser
Millette Taada-Ocampo AAA President
REMINISCING
Retro Ride - Millette Taada-Ocampo HS 56
BEGINNINGS
AAA History
AAA Past Presidents
The Making of the Museum
FEATURING
Artist and Inventor Ching Abad Santos
COLLABORATING
Assumption Golf Tournament
BONDING
Quedarse de Velada: Still One HS 84
Golden Jubilarians HS 59
The Class of 49 - Diamond Jubilarians
Walking Through Years of Friendship - Ruby Jubilarians HS 69
Unity in Diversity - Jade Jubilarians HS 74
Now Here - Pearl Jubilarians HS 79
CALLING
50th Anniversary of Sr. Loretto Eugenia Mapa, r.a.
Double Happiness: Sr. Luz Emmanuel Soriano, r.a.
CONNECTING
Hello from North America
Watch Us Sizzle in Southern California
BOSES
Asociacion de Alumnas de la Asuncion de Filipinas en Espaa
Thabom-Thailand
TRANSITIONING
Writing Evolution, My Laptop Story
Contemplating the Unknown
TRANSFORMING
Mission Sunday
SAVORING
Milky Ways Favorites
RECALLING
A Silver Girls Memoirs HS 83
The Diamond Jubilarians of 2008 HS 48
The Ruby Years HS 68
Jade and Beyond HS 73
Pearl Girls: Proud to be Animated HS 78
PARENTING
Lessons to Learn
Twain Meet
GATHERING
Quarterly Lunches
REMEMBERING
Tribute to Cora Atayde
Dearly Departed
ASSISTING
Typhoon Ondoy : Operation Tulong
*cover pictures by Jojo Gloria
OCTOBER 2009 01 Assumpta
OCTOBER 2009 02
Messages
Assumpta
My Dear Alumnae,
A
s our Bishops invite us to enter into a year of Prayer and Work
for Peace-building and Lay Participation in Social Change, as
we face crucial times in the life of our nation, I feel it is important
for us to do so with minds and hearts intent on building a spirit of
communion and solidarity among all.
Recent events in our country have given us an experience of
the power of the SPIRIT that unites that is far greater than that
which divides.
Once again, we have the opportunity to determine our future.
In some way, the future is in our hands. Together, Laity Religious
Clergy, we need to work together drawing strength and power
from GOD in whom we are ONE.
For us ASSUMPTION TOGETHER is more than just Lay
and Religious coming and working together. More than just a
partnership, it is the face of God in the CHURCH today. It asks of
us to open our hearts and minds more and more to the reality that
we cannot live without each other. It is a mutual empowerment that
comes from Gods love for us and His confdence that together we
can make this earth a place of GLORY for Him.
Let us not disappoint God. Let us make God happy. At the
same time, let us count on one another for support and prayers!
We remain in communion of loving prayers,

Sr. Maria Josefna Matias, r.a.
Provincial Superior
Dear Alumnae,
T
oday, we celebrate the Feast of the Queenship of Mary. She
who was the humble handmaid of the Lord in her total YES
to God without counting the cost, has been given this title by the
universal Church. I believe we can learn from Mary, our Blessed
Mother what we want to highlight in the theme of this years issue:
Empowering the alumnae.
I ask, What makes for empowerment? Looking at our Blessed
Mother, one virtue stands out: HUMILITY. This, I believe, is what
makes for empowerment. It is to know where real power lies, to
whom it is bestowed, and why it is given.
I am reminded of the Assumption philosophy of education: to
allow the good to break through the rock that imprisons it, and
bring it to the light where it can blossom and shed its radiance.
Our Mother Foundress, St. Marie Eugenie of Jesus gives us
this true meaning of empowerment through this philosophy of
education, received by generations of Assumption alumnae.
God is good, and in His loving mercy, has graciously shared with
us His goodness and if we recognize this goodness in ourselves
to share with others. What your Assumption educators dared
do, through the years, was to show you the process of break-
throughs, not to be afraid the chipping-off of pride, selfishness,
and ego. In this way, we understood what humility is, and
surprisingly, we experienced the joy of Gods goodness in our
lives which we spontaneously or proactively share with others.
The discovery is to affrm that real power comes from God, and
we simply Gods human face who desire to witness to Gods
goodness in our lives.
May this be the reminder for us...being a humble handmaid of
the Lord is the basis of being an empowered Assumption alumna!
Let us turn to Mary, our Blessed Mother as we give of ourselves
to others and learn from her what could be the theme song of an
empowered Assumption alumna: MAGNIFICAT!

Always praying for you all,
Sr. Gertrude Borres, r.a.
College President
SEPTEMBER 2009 05 Assumpta
My Dear Old Girls,
I
t is often in times of great loss and sorrow that we tend to refect
upon our place in this world, our work, our role in the community.
With the recent passing from our midst of our sister, friend, and
leader of our nation, the late former President Corazon Aquino, the
theme of this issue of the Assumpta Magazine, Empowering the
alumnae, takes even greater signifcance and strikes deep into
our very existence, our sense of purpose in this world, and makes
us look long and hard at who we are and what we are called to
become and to achieve.
We think of an Assumption education as an empowering tool,
one that will equip us individually and as a community for the task
of social transformation. It is an experience that shapes our faith,
our values, our very outlook in life, and guides us during times of
trial and diffculty, when we are called upon to make sacrifces for
the greater good. We have been equipped with the knowledge and
skills needed to survive and to prosper in the secular world. More
than that, however, we have been shaped by our Assumption
education with the values that enable us to be responsible citizens
of our nation, true contributors to the good of the families and our
communities, and humble followers of Jesus Christ.
In the example of the late President and that of other alumnae
who are working in their own way to make a difference in their
communities, we see the possible. Having been educated in the
Assumption tradition, formed with Christian values and instilled
with the teachings of our foundress, St. Marie Eugenie, we are
empowered not just to succeed in the material sense, but in the
greater deeper sense of choosing right over wrong when it is the
latter that is easier, in choosing the greater good over ones own
good when it is the latter that seems sweeter; in choosing sacrifce
over convenience when it is the former that is right, however
painful it may be.
It is an empowerment to do good rather than evil, to see hope
rather than despair, to uphold the truth rather than conceal it. It is
what each Assumption alumna, by her education and tradition, has
the power to do, and more importantly the choice to do, whether
the task is to lead a nation to the path of democracy or simply to
put a smile on the face of a child where once there were tears.
My heartfelt best to Assumption alumnae everywhere. May we
always walk in Gods light and love and grace.
In Christ,
Sr. Luz Emmanuel Soriano, r.a.
OCTOBER 2009 04
Messages
Assumpta
Presidents Message
E
very year we come to this familiar and
beloved landscape. We come and
unravel memories, trying to make sense of
what has been, seeking joy in the bosom
of our alma mater and friends, celebrating
the past and present and hopeful for better
tomorrows.
Every year jubilarians renew their spirit
with slogans that embody the theme of
their celebration. Themes like PROUD
to BE, WORLD CLASS, LIFE GIVING
YEARS, THANK GOD FOR ASSUMPTION
are all heartfelt summations of what their
Assumption education has been for them.
And they are grateful, singing and dancing
with joy.
After 25, 50 and 60 long years from
high school graduation, the Old Girls have
seen much and have lived through diverse
phases of their lives. There are many stories
to tell and share. Guided by the St. Marie
Eugenies maxim of transforming society
through education, we have many alumnae
who have been empowered, blooming in
their own milieu - at home, in their careers
and workplace, and in the advocacies they
seek. This year, the Assumption Alumnae
Board has embarked on the Quarterly Lunch,
with a vision to unite, and make more vibrant
our alumnae organization.
This endeavor is to be
carried out with the
help of class/batch reps
and the immediate post
jubilarians for wider reach
and deeper involvement.
And as we rub elbows with
old schoolmates and nuns
and break bread together, we
get to know of our inspiring
graduates and guests and
reconnect with the school
spirit. We hope to nourish,
herd and empower the fertile
Assumption landscape as
they get informed of the many
worthwhile activities and
projects that the AAA supports.
This year we happily offer to our alumnae
our annual Assumpta Magazine. For the frst
time it is in full color rendering added features
in its attempt to make it better.
I am grateful for the full support of
Sister Luz our adviser, the Alumnae Board
members, the religious of the Assumption,
and the offce staff. I pray for an empowered,
vibrant and relevant AAA.
We hope to
nourish, herd
and empower the
fertile Assumption
landscape as they
get informed
of the many
worthwhile
activities and
projects that the
AAA supports.
Millette Taada Ocampo
OCTOBER 2009 05
Reminiscing
Assumpta
A RETRO RIDE
I
t was a Sunday in October and time for Old Girls Day
again. This meant going back to school to be with
classmates, nuns, and school mates to enjoy the much
awaited velada prepared by exuberant silver, gold and
other milestone jubilarians to break bread together over
comfort food of Assumption meat, sotanghon, siomai and
Assumption tarts. I donned the red, plaid, pleated skirt
and slipped the sailor-collared blouse over my head, then
fnished off by putting my necktie, recompense, white
socks and black fat shoes. Year after year we return to
Assumption in our high school uniform and become school
girls again. I faced a full length mirror and a smile spread
across my face. Memories fit, fy and hover like butterfies
and dragonfies in the meadow of my mind.
I remember the tall iron gate of Herran and Mang
Segundo, the faithful gatekeeper who lived in a little house
by the wall. I remember the gray asphalt driveway that
encircled the quadrangle with its fagpole in the middle.
This stood in front of the main building that housed the
parlor, the chapel, the refectory and dormitory. Images of
school edifces come to mind, all cream colored and just
two stories high, with wide Gothic arches and feur-de-liz
emblems on its facade. I remember those glorious acacia
trees that surrounded us, its wide spreading branches
casting motherly shadows to flter the sun and which
sometimes teased with a falling worm or two. Farther in
were the grade school and kindergarten sections and
beyond was a grotto aproned by a pond where the little
girls wandered to play and pray to Our Lady of Lourdes.
It was March when we graduated. The year went past
the era of Madonna and Abba, beyond the height of the
Bee Gees and the Beatle mania. It went all the way back
to the time of Rock and Roll when Elvis Presley was king.
Awaiting graduation rites, we neatly lined up at the portals
of the chapel, a vision of white in our gala uniforms, our
distinct lacy wide collars falling from our shoulders down to
our bodice, our frothy white veils touching our torso. With
white nurses stockings over white shoes, like modern day
vestal virgins we marched down the aisle while parents
craned their necks to catch a glimpse of their daughter
among a throng of graduates.
Solemnity, excitement and nostalgia hung in the air. And
through the ritual calling of names, handing of diplomas,
pinning coveted medals of honor and picture taking,
memories danced in my mind.Veiled nuns in deep purple
habits with what seemed like miles of rosaries hanging
from the waist clinking as they walked down the school
corridors; the brown permission tag we had to get from one
side of the teachers desk unwittingly announcing to the
whole class ones need to go to the WC; the thermos and
sandwiches everyone brought as there was no canteen. I
remember how we played bataille, Assumptions unique
ball game that came all the way from the mother house in
Paris, and how we roughed up for the warball matches. We
dreaded, detested the observation notebook with recorded
misconduct and failing grades which were seriously read in
a class assembly. And how patiently we stood in silence at
departure time while waiting for our cars.
As we sang Assumpta Est Maria, I recalled the
emphasis on religion classes taught by our nuns, fostered
by 15 minutes of adoration kneeling before the Blessed
Sacrament, the almost daily benediction, and lessons
stressing the virtues of kindness, charity, simplicity, and
fdelity to duty. We studied, played and prayed and our
teachers tried to make us see beyond our books.
It seems that teaching was a slower process then.
Instant make-overs, quick-fx diets and immediate
empowerment were then unheard of.
Inner beauty, character and refnement
were slowly ingrained and meant to
grow within us over the years. Patience
through silence and waiting; faith
through the sacraments, charity through
visits to the poor; kindness as in no
gossiping and backbiting; hope and
strength through religion, and culture
through literature and history.
Remembering that graduation
day in March was a retro ride to
the distant past, yet that Sunday in
October, dressed in red plaid skirt
paired with black fats, I looked
forward to another Old Girls Day.
I was eager to go back to school
and be with classmates, friends
and teachers. To revel and be
fascinated with the pulsating spirit
that pervades this celebration. To
dwell in a feast of memories that
comes at any age, celebrating
friendship and an education that
interiorly transformed us to womanhood and armed us to
face our struggles, demons and dreams in the dailiness of
living and moving phases of our life.
Millette Taada Ocampo
Feb. 2, 2009
I remember those glorious acacia trees that
surrounded us, its wide spreading branches casting
motherly shadows to filter the sun and which
sometimes teased with a falling worm or two.
Saint Marie Eugnie
Milleret founded
the Religious of
the Assumption
in Paris in 1839.
Her essential
vision was one
of transforming
society through
education.
At the special request of St. Pius X, a
group of English-speaking Assumption
Sisters returned to Manila in 1904.
With the group of Sisters were Mother Helen
Margaret as Superior, and Mother Rosa Maria
who subsequently spent sixty-one of her
seventy years of religious life in the Religious
of the Assumption in the Far East. The
Sisters opened the Assumption Convent in
Herran-Dakota, Malate, as an elementary and
secondary school. A College Department was
added in 1940.
World War II destroyed practically the
whole school as buildings were razed to the
ground in the liberation of Manila in 1945.
Classes resumed in quonset huts
and in a battered auditorium in
Herran. Mother Rosa Marias
unfailing courage and confdence
brought Assumption Manila back to
its feet and relaunched it towards
even broader perspectives. In
1947 reconstruction began and the
College reopened in 1948.
In 1958, the sisters opened
Assumption San Lorenzo in Makati
to ease the ever-increasing student
population on all levels. The College
was moved there in 1959.
During this time, a group of
Assumption women/alumna
kept the teachings of Marie Eugenie in their
hearts. What is it that makes character and
intelligence grow, what is it that strongly
coordinates all learning, serves as goal,
connection, reason? In a sense, it is a
philosophy, and in another, even larger sense,
it is a passion. But what passion should be
given? A passion of faith and love, a passion
for making the law of Christ a reality.
They founded the organization of an
Alumnae Association, with alumnae divided
into two groups, the Senior Alumnae with
eight board members, and the Junior group,
composed of post-war graduates, with
Zelatrices for each class. Social Service
activities were again emphasized, such as
the C.W.L., the YLAC, the White Cross, the
Damas de la Caridad, Cruzada de Amor, as
well as the Legion of Mary, visitations of and aid
extended to Welfareville, the Psychopathic and
Orthopedic hospitals, the Leprosarium and the
prisons. Annual Retreats were also sponsored
for the alumnae.
In 1965, younger Old Girls
felt there was a need to organize
more formally, and thus the terms
Assumption Alumnae Association
came into being. Younger alumnae
organized themselves under this
name with a constitution and by-
laws proposed by Gloria Litton,
elected frst president of the
organization. Then Senior and Junior
alumnae agreed there was a need
for one overall alumnae association.
Thus a formal merging was agreed
upon, elections were held under
the organizing genius of Conchita
Sunico, and the frst and formal
Alumnae Association became a reality with
Zeneida Quezon Avancena as president.
Today we honor the women who dedicated
their lives to Assumption Family. The presidents
of the Assumption Alumnae Association
continue to give sunshine to the young
assumptionistas, so that the richness of the
past can provide a roadmap for the freedom
of expression of self. Yes, the little fowers have
scattered their fragrance through the years of
service, love and passion for Assumption.
Beginnings
By Dulce Festin Baybay
W
hen Old Girls visit the Assumption
Alumnae Association offce today at
San Lorenzo Village, Makati, there is a room
called the Gallery. In that room are not only
milestone photos of the activities of the alumnae
through the decades, but also an interactive
corner where one can now watch on video the
23 past presidents of the Association recalling
their days at their Alma Mater and how it was
to be president during their time. The Gallery
also shows the various programs/projects of the
AAA then and now.
The setting up of the Gallery, a brainchild of
President Ma. Lourdes Baby Goyena Herrera
HS 76, was a daunting task, particularly in
getting together most of the past presidents of
the Association for an interview. It could not
have been done without the full support of the
Alumnae Board Members, particularly project
director Ma. Milagros Taada Ocampo and
AAA Manager Alice Tioseco whose patience
and perseverance in calling the presidents took
months in the making. But as the interviews
took place, it was a heartwarming and inspiring
time for all involved, including the cameramen of
the Assumption Colleges Department of Mass
Communication led by Ming Roxas. Even the
backdrop used for the interview was special.
This was a quilt with the picture of Mother
Foundress, St. Marie Eugenie, lent by Pinky
Valdes. What a ftting set-up as the former
presidents recalled their years as leaders of
the association, with none other than Mother
Foundress watching over them.
Each president was sent the interview
questions ahead of time, through fax and email.
As the day for the interview came, most were
hesitant as they never faced a video camera
before. The interviews lasted from 30 minutes to
more than an hour for each. For some, it was
their frst time to return to their Alma Mater after
they had served their term. For others, it was a
moment to be remembered as they reminisced
on what they felt were their contributions to
the growth of the Association. But each had
a message to give. Each had inspiring words
of wisdom to share with the present and
future Old Girls. Each showed that they had
lived St. Marie Eugenies dictum of becoming
women of faith, women of action.
A few could not be found. Some had passed
away. Here are some messages for everyone
from those who were interviewed. To better
appreciate the interviews, a must visit to the
Gallery, particularly the interactive corner, is in
order. And view how grateful tears were even
shed during the interviews.
Beginnings
1967-1968
Gloria Litton del Rio,
HS 46
First appointed
President of what was
then known as the
Junior Association.
My task was to get the
Assumption Alumnae
Association organized. We
prepared the Constitution
and By-Laws and we
got a copy of the Ateneo
constitution. We were
busy locating members.
We formed a telephone
brigade. I could not
have done it alone. We
were taught to be ladies.
We were taught how to
behave. Our motto then
was to Get It Organized!
1968-1969
Ma. Zenaida Nini
Quezon Avancena, HS
37
frst elected President
of the AAA.
Although I was in
Assumption for only 5
years, I consider it a great
grace that the Lord has
given me an Assumption
education. I have tried to
live up to be the best that
I should be. I have done
my best not to disgrace
this school that has given
me so much. You should
hold on to your religious
values, to your Catholic
Faith. We are a joyful
religion and you must
always also do what you
can for the people who
need your help. Never
turn your back on the
needy, the suffering,
the sick. Help them
willingly and joyfully. Her
interview gives the inside
story on the beginnings
of the Mother Rosa
Memorial Foundation
and the Assumpta
Technical School at San
Simon, Pampanga. She
also says that the term
Old Girls is a French
translation of a former
student. When she
graduated from high
school at the age of 16,
I was excited that I was
already known as an Old
Girl!
1969-1972
Teresita Boquer
Campos, HS46
Be the Best. Be
Humble.
1972-1974
Cecilia Hernaez Cecy
Magsaysay, HS 46
Serve with Joy!
Respond to the times. Be
less judgmental, more
accepting. Connect
people to their needs.
Visit the Assumption Alumnae Association
Gallery and experience the spreading
of Assumption education and values
through the years by the Old Girlsthe
women of faith, women of action.
1976-1978
Therese Villanueva
Vargas, HS47
1991-1992
Ma. Lourdes Brion Alba,
HS69
1992-1993
Marisa Beech Batacan,
HS56
Ask your Mother
Foundress for help. Allow
yourself to be an open
vessel. Integrate Mother
Eugenies teachings into
your life. It was during
her term that the AAA
I.D. card was introduced
and the AAA National
Convention was held in
Antipolo.
1999
Marianne Magsaysay
Pratt, HS72
Reach out. Give back.
Her term marked what
was called the Assumption
Sisterhood. The 1st Golf
Tournament also took
place during her term.
She and the offcers also
went to different provinces
to get the association
chapters started as well
as formalizing different
groups of the AAA into a
Federation.
2000-2001
Ma. Bernadette
Nanette Valmores
Olivares, HS67
Her term saw the
setting up of the Board
to Outboard that
brought together the
Assumption girls. A
Baguio Mission was
set up and a school
at St. Martin, Bulacan
was established.
2002-2005
Judy Araneta Roxas,
HS51
Reconnect with
Assumption, physically
and spiritually. During her
term, the milestone years
were increased to every
fve years. She and her
Board Members helped
rebuild the Mother Rose
Hall. She emphasized the
importance of honesty
and integrity as well as
the message of helping
people help themselves.
2005-2009
Ma. Lourdes Baby
Goyena Herrera, HS 76
We now have a Saint by
our side. Seize the grace
of the Canonization. Keep
the Faith and live that Faith
in our daily lives. Living
Assumption together
as a way of life. Her
impact flled term, which
broke barriers, marked
the bringing and getting
together 1,100 pilgrims to
Rome for the Canonization
of Mother Foundress as
well as systematizing the
AAA organization.
1993-1994
Corazon Cora
Sanchez Atayde, HS 58
Achieving inner peace is
a different kind of peace.
The mission pie was
established during her term.
This pie set up the system
for apportioning the funds
raised by the AAA.
1995-1996
Ma. Eugenia Chiqui
Barretto Server,
HS63
Come back and get
involved.
1997
Arlene May Abad
Gisbert, HS72
Communication was my
goal. Show kindness in
action. Her term saw
the computerization of
the AAA and establishing
contact with the youth.
1998
Cynthia Pascual
Zagala, HS47.
She passed away
August, 2004.
1999
Jacqueline Cheryl
Jacqui Cancio Vega,
HS71
Assumption is home.
Surrender our lives to the
Lord. She and her Board
Members established the
formula for fundraising
and giving as well as the
Mother Rosa tours.
1978-1980
Lourdes Busuego Pablo,
HS46.
She passed away
December 2006.
1980-1982
Ma. Victoria Vicky
Eugenia Pellicer
Pertierra, HS56
Let your light shine.
During her term,
assistance to teachers
in the form of cash was
given.
1983-1987
Ana Josefina Nening
Pedrosa Manahan,
HS53
During her term, she
and her Board Members
made it a point to
make the alumnae not
feel alienated. Hang on
to your prayer life. Be
responsible for your
surroundings.
1987-1989
Margarita Marge
Ansaldo Tambunting,
HS60
The Assumptionist is
a universal person. We
should be grateful for our
gift of faith.
1989-1990
Conchita Gallaga
Castillo, HS60
It was during her term
that the AAA and the
Sisters were brought
together to work as
one. She says that
Assumptionists, are
Women of Faith,
Women of God, moving
into action, found
everywhere, so work in
your own sphere.
1990-1991
Ma. Victoria Vicky
del Prado Carballo,
HS60
Be simple. Be frugal.
1974-1976
Angelina Anggie
Barrera, HS46
For the good of our own
Assumption educational
institution, go back to the
core. Prove to all that this
is gods Kingdom. We are
sisters of the poor. As
President, she was sent to
Rome for the beatifcation
of Mother Foundress.
OCTOBER 2009 10
Beginnings
Assumpta
The Making of
the Museum
T
ucked in a corner of the museum are
two photos of the members of Class 55
one, in their gala uniform for their formal
high school graduation picture; the other as
freshmen in their toga in what would then be
College Class 59.
Between the two photos is written a simple
statement: The making of the museum was, for
us, a nostalgic journey of rediscover. It made us
remember our beginning and the values lovingly
imparted to us by our nuns. Looking back, we
understand the relevance of their teachings in
our life. Assumption will always be an important
part of us.
When Sr. Gertrude Borres, president of the
Assumption College, proposed that our class
spearhead the museum project, we had no idea
that accepting the assignment would
mean ten months of a veritable emotional
roller coaster ride. With trepidation (fund
raising!) and enthusiasm (bouyed by
the indomitable Assumption spirit), we
gamely set out to do the task at hand.
The highs were many
togetherness, reminiscing and much
laughter; as well as the lows
construction delays, missed deadlines,
lost photographs, and scant memorabilia
(at least at the start). Then, on a trip to the
Antipolo campus to scour its bodega
for what we had hoped would be some
rare mementoes, we discovered steamer
trunks under layers of dust. These had
been brought by nuns who arrived here from
Europe in the 1900s.
Work then started in earnest. Angelina
Esquivel and Marcia Evangelista-Sandoval came
on board to research and write the Assumption
history, along with Angie Barrera and Chingay
Diaz-Lagdameo. To Ana Alfonso-Casas fell
the painstaking job of weaving them together.
A tribute to Mother Esperanza, the moving
spirit behind the reconstruction of Herran
and the building of the San Lorenzo campus
was contributed by Maribel Garcia-Ongpin.
Putting captions on a slew of photographs that
spanned decades seemed not only tedious
but also impossible. Claudette Guerrero-Silerio
and Consuelo Nieva-Blanch thought it would
be intimidating at frst, but they helped out and
fount it to be enjoyable after all.
We thought to feature in the museum, as
well, four generations of Assumption Alumnae.
Iding Cuaycong-Llamas extended a helping
hand in this endeavour. Tracking families and
tracing their lineage was ardous work, but
seeing the delighted smiles on the happy faces
of the families on opening dayit was well
worth it.
The gathering of memorabilia proved more
diffcult, but the Old Girls came through.
Maitet Araneta-Lopa handed over albums,
scrapbooks, photographs and souvenirs
just what we needed to get us going. Menet
Legarda-Moricca surprised us with a treasure-
trove of well-preserved photos, notebooks,
and a uniform from the 1920s. A silver cup,
used by their grandmother when she was a
boarder at the school in 1900s, was donated by
cousins Bea Bantug-Tan and Mandy Consunji-
Torres. Wistfully, Ana Casas parted with her First
Communion dress and Ana Ortigas-Olondriz
with her little rosary and missal, as did Nening
Pedrosa-Manahan with her Girl Scout uniform,
all from the late 40s. A cherished photograph
of the nuns of our generation came from Linda
Fabella-de Carolis, and from Mila von Heiland
Lane, her mothers 1936 annual. Even Ramon
Villegas, noted antique collector, lent us valuable
photographs of pre-war Assumption. A replica
of her frst Assumption plaid College uniform
of the late 40s was made under the careful
supervision of Anita Lopa-Vistan. Having worn
one herself, she remembered every detail that
went into it.
Meanwhile, the fundraising had taken a life
of its own. The High School Class of 1960,
through Marissa Bautista-Hipolito
and Chita Gallaga-Castillo, became
a benefactor class. Many alumnae
especially from our class followed
suit, giving readily and generously
to the fund. Their names are
engraved in a Donor Plaque, to be
remembered with gratitude and
appreciation for always. They helped
fulfll Sister Gertrudes dream to
put in a sacred space the story
of the outpouring of Gods love
for Assumption and the legacy
of Saint Marie Eugenies vision of
transformative education.
Our task was to make this sacred
space breathe life into the teachings and
mission of Saint Marie Eugenie to animate and
inspire us and future generations of alumnae.
Teresa Custodio, our exhibit designer, knew
intuitively what needed to be donereach into
the innermost recesses of our mind. She posed
this question, What for you is the essence of
your Assumption education that has guided you
in life?
The alumnaes response was overwhelming.
By Cora Bautista-Lopa HS 55 Coll 59
It was time to put into words what they had known and kept in
their heartsthat they are the women they are todaysteadfastly
striving to be Christ-centered, prayerful , and with a strong social
consciencebecause of their Assumption education.
When the museum opened on March 10, 2009, Saint Marie
Eugenies feastday, they came. Touched, moved, inspired
these were some of the sentiments they expressed as they viewed
the exhibit with much interest and not a small amount of nostalgia.
Suffused with good memories of school days and the nuns
who nurtured them, the words of Saint Marie Eugenie rang pure
and true and echoed in their hearts. With sudden clarity, they
recognized themselvesthis is what we were meant to be, this
is what Mother Foundress envisioned us to be, this is what we
want to become.
The museum refreshed our memories and made the distant
past, the living present.
P
AZ CHING SINGSON ABAD SANTOS
has gone a long way in her Fabric of
LifeSeries of Infnity. Ching pursued her
passion for fber art and brought it beyond form
and aesthetic into a new reality called Strands.
The past three decades of this extraordinary
artist has been dedicated to the pursuit of fiber
art, a relatively new discipline in the realm of
fine arts that is not only demanding esthetically
but physically as well. Filipino fiber artists of
today owe a lot to Ching Abad Santos, whose
exemplary works have allowed fiber art to gain
respectability in the local art scene.
In the last few years, the prolific artist
highlights the therapeutic and utilitarian
function of her art by unveiling Fabric of
Life Series to Infinity, her innovative
invention that allows the blind to detect
colors and create their own artworks.
Ching Abad Santos completed her
primary and tertiary education at the
Assumption Convent, an exclusive
school for the girls. At 18, she got
married to an architect and opted
to be a full-time housewife and
mother. During this period, Abad
Santos only managed to attend
to her art intermittently churning
out works in watercolor and
intaglio, and completing short
courses in Chinese painting
and interior design.
It took 18 years before
she was able to study art
on a full-time basis. I knew
early on that art requires
total commitment, she
says, recalling her decision to put art in
the backburner when she prioritized the
homefront. Abad Santos recalls that she
already had a clear-cut objective in mind
from the time she enrolled at the University of
the Philippines-Diliman in 1979. My goal is
to study what Philippine art really was, she
stresses. In 1981, she earned her degree in
fine arts graduating magna cum laude.
Because of her passion for change and
serendipity, her artistic ingenuity reaped
awards in the next two decades of her life.
Worth mentioning are the following: A gold
medal in the painting category of the 33rd
Annual Competition of the Art Association of
the Philippines. She also won the prestigious
Mobil Art Award with Strands that employed
thread and burlap as primary materials.
Abad Santos artistic direction through
the years was mainly guided by her desire to
unravel the native esthetics of her country. I
believe that fiber art and my use of indigenous
PAZ ABAD SANTOS
THE ARTIST
AND INVENTOR
With excerpts from article of Perry Gil S. Mallari
published January 2008 entitled Precious Strands
of Life the Fiber Art of Paz Abad Santos
Featuring
materials are very much aligned with our
national identity, she points out. Abad Santos
first finds great inspiration in the tnalak, a cloth
made of abaca fiber that is the traditional art of
the Tboli tribe of North Cotabato. She coined
her first T-boli inspired series Tnalak Evolution,
which was exhibited in 1982 and 1983.
Abad Santos nearly three decades of toil
in fiber art did not come without a cost. Her
hands, in contrast to her regal deportment,
have roughen through the years of enduring
manual strain. Her choice of material has also
proven to be unforgiving. The fibers Abad
Santos loved to work on have
accumulated on the walls of
her airway, now prompting
her to wear a mask every time
she works on a project. She
had also developed sensitivity
to resin fumes. But all these
have hardly made a dent
on the artists verve for life
and prolificacy. With artistic
energy that would be an envy
of artists half her age, Abad
Santos aims to draw artistic
inspiration from the Northern
Luzon highlands specifically
the rich textile and carving traditions of the
Kalinga and Ifugao tribes.
Ching is not only an artist but is now an
inventor. For many years, she has developed
new forms to harness the healing capabilities
of art.
She toiled on creating a system where the
blind can experience the joy of creating art, the
very core of her existence. Abad Santos indeed
was bent on sharing to the visually impaired
the bliss that artists like her experience. The
backbone of her invention is a system dubbed
as strand. It allows the blind to identify a
particular color or hue by feeling the number
and spacing of strands affixed to painted
cardboard tiles. The said tiles evolved from
thousands of prototypes she created based
on her fabric and tapestry designs. Having
mastered the codes of the strands, a blind
person can create his own composition by
pasting and juxtaposing the tiles of his choice
in a special Velcro board.
Twenty-year-old Rachelle Pilares who has
been blind since the age of fve has already
tested Abad Santos invention effective. A
number of Pilares works are
on display at Abad Santoss
studio in Quezon City. Ching
fnally received the patent for
her invention this year 2009
after waiting for two years.
Reclusive by nature, she
is quite uncomfortable with
the media attention shes
now getting because of her
invention intoning that she is
plainly happy with her art. I
am thankful that I have the
freedom to create and do
what I want, she adds.
Strand, the one element omnipresent in
all of Abad Santos creations represents her
philosophy as an artist and as an individual.
She discloses that she once had a meditation
watching a strand tied on an end of a high pole
being buffeted by the wind. The humble yarn
brought a sort of epiphany that she articulated
with the following cryptic words In whatever
way the wind may blow, a strand will lead the
way. . . that has been my life with the strands,
the telltale.
Twenty-year-old
Rachelle Pilares
who has been blind
since the age of
five has already
tested Abad Santos
invention effective.
A number of Pilares
works are on
display at Abad
Santos studio in
Quezon City. Ching
finally received
the patent for her
invention this 2009
after waiting for
two years.
Collaborating
ASSUMPTION TOGETHER
GOLF TOURNAMENT
2 February 2009
Sta Elena Golf & Country Club, Laguna
3/F Marie Eugenie Center
Assumption College
San Lorenzo Village
Makati City
Telefax: 893-8588
Phone: 817-0757 loc. 42
Email: [email protected]
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OCTOBER 2009 16
Bonding
Assumpta
O
ld Girls Day is a tradition that
Assumption has which brings together
all high school graduates as a community.
It is a day flled with different activities, held
every 3rd Sunday of October. It builds such
strong community relationships even envied
by other schools.
The day starts with the election of AAA
offcers, board members and a mass
sponsored by the Silver Jubilarians, where all
Old Girls wear the school uniform. After which
a lunch (normally consisting of the traditional
Assumption meals we had like Assumption
Tarts, Siomai and Assumption Pie) is served for
all sponsored by the AAA. Then there is the
traditional Velada which means party, reunion
or soiree..quedarse de velada - to spend the
evening.. An expression of thanksgiving, a
milestone that says where we were, where
we are now and where we are going... as
Assumption graduates.
As the Silver Jubilarians for this year, we
would like to tell our story. That we are STILL
ONE in hope, in love, in joy, in our FIAT-- Gods
will be done in our lives. Ours is a history of
heroes and icons. We witnessed revolutions of
a different kind, from fashion, music to people
power revolutions. In fact, so great was our
time that today, as a country, we cant help but
live it again.
QUEDARSE
DE VELADA
STILL ONE
By Christine Javier
With the passing of icons of our time, the
world remembered, and we do too. We
graduated with yellow ribbons in the streets
of Ayala, and watching the Moonwalker for
the frst time in MTv. It is uncanny that we
return with the same songs and colors. The
passing of Cory, our batch is again reminded
of the great times we witnessed in our country.
A history that has made us who we are today;
and with heroes we lived with, made us heroes
ourselves. This is just part of what we celebrate
in our homecoming. We celebrate because we
were there and we made a difference! We also
celebrate rekindled friendships and the life-
long ones we share.
How shall we tell such great stories? We
chose shoes as the symbol and imagery of
journeys made, and directions taken. Putting
them in our shoes, so to speak, as we lived
the stages of our lives. Showing also how,
our Assumption education helped us put
ourselves in other peoples shoes. Yet, we
never became hopeless of the impossible,
or paralyzed by shame, we never stopped
celebrating life! In that one hour, we want to
tell them who we were, who we are - most of
all, why we area mlange of shoes weve
had in our lives... and yet still one... eager for
our next pair for the journey.
We celebrate
because we were
there and we made
a difference! We
also celebrate
rekindled
friendships and
the life-long ones
we share.
HS 59
Row 1 L-R: Carmi la O, Anamer Silos, Menchu Nieva, Nanette Dionisio, Cristina Syquia, Florencia Gonzalez, Chiqui Preysler, Jeannie Carlos, Mary Rose Jacinto,
Mother Francoise Marguerite, Marilou Briones, Isabel Zulueto, Marilou Ramos
Row 2 behind Mother Francoise Marguerite: Marylin Rodriguez, Chiquita Cuyugan, Lita Delfn, Tere Escano, Nanes Marasigan, Tessie Villegas
Row 3: Emma Pio de Roda, Charito Fernandez, Leni Avelino, Nena Barreto, Baby Paraiso, Caksi Beech, Angge Fores, Ong Beech, Erna Fores, Marie del Prado,
Ton Javier, Chiching Singson, Helen Montilla, Tessie Recto, Mari Paz Montemayos, Carmita Perez, Marijon Zamora, Connie Varona, Melo Ortega, Cheli Vilar,
Marivic Meer, Ludy Zaragoza, Marlene Avelino, Nida Buencamino, Cri-Cri Lopez, Corie Lacson, Marite Mirasol, Rosie de Joya, Maricris Teves, Adring Azores,
Mariles Alvarez, Maricar Arrieta, Connie Teotico, Ana Ines Roces, Yvonne Jalbuena, Midette Quicho, Emma Domingo, Chinggay de Veyra, Victoria Hernandez,
Milette Reyes, Carmir Singh, Martina Boquer
Row 5: Merche Fernandez, Tesy da Silva, Marivic Gustilo, Desiree Salcedo, Marilen Rosado, Patricia Harrington, Marinela San Juan, Gina Aspillera, Cielo del
Castillo, Norma Lim, Jojo Kierulf, Ditas Hidalgo, Tereret Justiniani, Magdalena Bonin, Maribel Moraza, Inger Lise Odner, Marivi Eusebio, Estela Justiniani, Carmen
Salang, Madie Dacanay, Marilou Dacanay, Marilou Ruiz, Cristina Bachiller, Maricris Alegre, Pilina Berenguer, Teresita Nazareno, Cecilia Zulueta
Front: Chinggay de Veyra Utzurrum, Terry Escano Manguera, Marissa
Gonzales Serrano, Nida Buendamino Lopez, Tessie Recto Santos
Behind: Desiree Salcedo Martinez, Marite Mirasol Ballesteros, Lita Delfn,
Cri-Cri Lopez Picazo, Ludy Zaragosa Reyes, Cheli Vilar Banta, Chiching
Singson Abad Santos
Front: Xenia Esteban, Charito
Samia Ampil, Merche Fernandez,
Terry Cu-Unjieng
Behind: Marijon Zamora de
Ocampo, Norma Lim Chan
GOLDEN
JUBILARIANS
Bonding
Row 1 L-R: Chingching Singson Abad Santos, Angge Fores Henson, Mari Paz Montemayor Vanderburgh, Marivic Meer de Leon, Dala Danao-Assistant
Choreographer, Desiree Salcedo Martinez
Row 2 L-R: Leni Avelino Valencia, Norma Lim Chan, Charito Samia Ampil, Tessie Recto Santos, Estela Lopez Justiniani, Bujing Danao-Choreographer, Cheli Vilas
Banta, Jojo Kierulf Zabarte, Terry Cu-Unijieng
Row 3 L-R: Ana Ines Roces Tolentino, Nida Buencamino Lopez, Carmi la O Manese, Tessie Villegas Arcenas, Marilou Ruiz Llamas, Lucy Villa Tamjaco, Nora San
Buenaventura Robles, Jeannie Carlos Abaya, Milette Reyes, Lita Delfn, Ludy Zaragosa Reyes, Marite Mirasol Ballesteros,l Nena Baretto Ong, Editha Pena Lim,
Cri-Cri Lopez Picazo, Mary Rose Escueta Racela.
Row 1 L-R: Tessie
Recto-Santos, Marivic
Meer de Leon, Ditas
Hidalgo Xavier, Marie Rose
Jacinto Ezpeleta, Marivic
Gustilo Travis, Mari Paz
Montemayor Vanderburgh,
Charito Samia Ampil, Cri-
Cri Lopez Picazo
Row 2 L-R: Lita Delfn,
Melinda Arcenas Garcia,
Nena Baretto Ong, Marite
Mirasol Ballesteros, Gina
Aspillera Ligones, Tessie
Villegas Arcenas, Estela
Justiniani Lopez, Tesy da
Silva Cutillas, Margie Kahn
Garcia, Jojo Kierulf Zabarte
Row 1 L-R: Chiching Singson
Abad Santos, Mari Paz
Montemayor Vanderburgh, Ludy
Zaragosa Reyes
Row 2 L-R: Carmi la O Manese,
Marivic Meer de Leon, Angge
Fores Henson, Tessie Recto
Santos, Cheli Vilar Banta, Jojo
Kierulf Zabarte, Cri-Cri Lopez
Picazo, Milette Reyes, Mary
Rose Escueta Racela
Row 3 L-R: Marite Mirasol
Ballesteros, Connie Teotico
Dizon, Estela Justiniani Lopez,
Jeannie Carlos Abaya, Lita
Delfn, Desiree Salcedo
Martinez, Marilou Ruiz
Llamas, Lucy Villa Tanjangco,
Editha Pena Lim, Nora San
Buenaventura Robles, Nida
Buencamino Lopez
Bonding
L
ooking back to sixty years ago by
someone in the 8th decade of her life
might be considered quite a feat. It might
even be thought of as expecting too much to
require such a one to relate past events and
not get a potpourri of facts and fction, truth
and imagination in convoluted messed-up
reportage. But it is well to remind the doubting
Thomases that people my age recall the past
more clearly than something that happened a
few minutes before.
Sixty years ago we graduated from high
school at the Assumption Convent in Herran.
I remember standing among our group
of graduates on the stage of the school
auditorium singing our alma mater song. For
many of us, it was graduation at last for
our pre-high school years were many times
interrupted by events of the second world
war. We were two or three years behind the
standard age for a high school graduate which
made us more ready and anxious to get on
with our lives.
We dispersed to different Universities in
Manila, the provinces as well as colleges in
foreign countries. After fnishing their college
degrees, many went on to get married, raise
children and tend to ideal and not so ideal
husbands. The more ambitious ones opted
for PhDs before settling down while others
shunned the married state to enjoy their lives in
un-wedded bliss.
After college most of us lost touch with one
another becoming involved as we were, in our
own individual families. Some of us worked
in banks, became college professors, opened
a family business or worked for fathers who
had already established business empires.
THE
CLASS OF
( THE DIAMOND JUBILARIANS)
49
By Carmelita Roxas Natividad
There were also those who preferred to stay
home to pursue a profession of raising children
and managing a home. Many got involved in
rendering social services to the indigents in their
respective communities while some helped their
parish priests in the up-keep and beautifcation
of the church as well as in the various church
programs involving the parishioners
It was only after we experienced the empty
nest syndrome that we started to get in touch
again with one another perhaps to renew
interrupted bondings and enjoy the company
of peers at an age where we had become
strange and outdated in the eyes of our
children. I personally belong to a group who
meet for lunch as often as we can get together
and celebrate each others birthdays in our
respective homes or some public dining areas
of our choice.
In preparation for our Diamond Jubilee
this October, we are coming up with a
magazine featuring short stories of our lives
and accomplishments this past sixty years
with pictures of our families. Since most of
us can no longer trip the light fantastic
so to speak, as part of the entertainment
program, it has been decided that we just
walk up the stage escorted by one or two
grandchildren, take our seats on the stage
and be serenaded by a singer.
We are likewise planning our own private
celebration with a trip to Antipolo in Connie
Rufnos resort on October 13th, lunch.
Several of our classmates are coming from
different parts of the globe for the Jubilee so
that this will be our way of welcoming them
back home.
Sixty years ago we
graduated from
high school at
the Assumption
Convent
in Herran.
I remember
standing among
our group of
graduates on
the stage of
the school
auditorium
singing our alma
mater song.
Bonding
I
ts show time for the glittering rubies of High School
Class 1969!
As we prepared for the velada, we swung to the
tune of Pretty Woman, in celebration of life as fulflled
women in our chosen vocations. We rocked to
the beat of These boots were made for walking
remembering the twelve years we walked together at
the Assumption Convent, coping with the disciplinary
measures of the Assumption nuns, cramming for
quizzes and tests and, on the fun side, sneaking
out of the watchful eye of Mang Segundo to eat at
Blums Coffee Shop in old Herran! Those were fun
days when life seemed so simple and everything a
bed of roses. After all, we belonged to the Age of
Aquarius and fower power was the in thing. We
became idealists, seeking peace and harmony in a
world racked by global turmoil.
As we bade goodbye to the ivy walls of the
Assumption after graduation, we began our individual
journeys to fulfll our destinies. We were full of queries
where life would lead us to and what the future had
in store for us. Young as we were, we were charged
with an adventurous spirit, and were willing to
challenge whatever stood in our way of fulflling our
dreams. And true enough, with determination, we
found our niches in the world. Many of us became
full time mothers, others chose to pursue a career or
business while raising children, a few have remained
single. No one chose the religious life!
Forty years after high school, we come together
again to celebrate the friendships that were nurtured
through the years. Thanks to the Age of Technology,
the internet has successfully located classmates
who have been silent in the different corners of
WALKING THROUGH
YEARS OF FRIENDSHIP:
THE ASSUMPTION
HIGH SCHOOL CLASS
OF 1969
By Tess Z. Lopez
the world. Our friendships, aged by the passing
years, resonate with the happy and sad times that
have been shared through the years. Age and the
passing winds of time have developed new episodes
in our lives. A number of us have become widows,
others are now young dotting grandmothers and
many have retired from their careers. A few have left
us forever to live in eternal peace. We may not be
as physically ft as forty years ago, but the class still
holds on to a wellspring of zest and enthusiasm for
life, seeking new dreams to pursue, never holding
back to the ongoing challenges of life.
In whatever path of life my classmates have taken,
I take pride that all of them have become the ideal
woman that the Assumption education prayed
we would be. In their sphere of life and work, Class
69 has given dignity to womanhood, shared their
material and spiritual resources to their families and
workmates, taken up their crosses with strength and
patience and in a thousand ways given of themselves
for the betterment of society. Truly, this has been the
dream of our Mother Foundress! As the curtain
goes up on October 18, forty gliterring rubies of High
School Class 1969 will bring the show down in a
dance medley celebrating Life, Love and Friendship.
Bonding
G
anito kami ngayon, paano Kami noon? What
are our fondest memories of our years at the
Assumption?
The Herran campus was gracious and
sprawling, with graceful hundred year old acacia
trees, and long buildings overlooking the lagoon.
At the head, sat the Chapel. The voices of the
sisters singing their offce just before benediction.
We would escape from the monotony of classes
by commandeering the permission slip to saunter
through the corridors taking in the trees, the grass
and the birds..Playing tricks on our teachers,
volleyball tournaments, school fairs, itchy worms
from the towering trees that sent troops of victims
to the clinic for caladryl treatments. It was a glorious
life - cloistered, predictable, and familiar.
For the San Lo girls, cloistered in what our
Herran counterparts called the cement jungle, High
School included cheering during the GAL games
in La Salle Greenhills and feld trips to Luneta park.
If Herran had their great Acacia Trees, Sanlo had
the Park behind Mother Rose Hall. There were
trips to the Principals offce, to explain childish
pranks like why the black chemistry tables turned
white when our Aladdin thermos leaked during flag
ceremony prompting the Manangs to sniff out the
SMIRNOFF vodka.
Then, school year 1973-74, incoming 4th year,
Herran and San Lo merged. The move wasnt
something we looked forward to and so we dug
our heels in and went into a kind of passive
resistance, rebelling quietly and making life
difficult for our poor mistress of class Mother
Claire Cecilia The change was part of the
socio - political turmoil that prompted MARTIAL
LAW and the religious upheaval, VATICAN II,
that prompted many of our mentors to leave the
Assumption congregation. We were clueless of
course, for we were the dreamers of dreams.
Although most of us were oblivious to what
was really going on, we accepted the inevitable.
Despite the odds, we forged friendships across
all the 4 sections. Though our different lifestyle,
we were taught the same values: leadership,
compassion, simplicity, fdelity to duty, and social
awareness. Assumption instilled discipline,
and molded my character to what I am today,
independent, grounded and God-fearing.
At 50 (and, wiser), we, have taken to
reinventing ourselves physically (need we say
more?) There are the bravest among us who
continue to battle serious medical challenges.
We support them and their families with masses
and prayers. Many have made the transition
from homemakers to doting lolas. Others
have changed their civil status from married to
forever single & loving-it , and a few have been
recently widowed. At 50 (and, proud of it) all of
us have taken on more active roles in community
and government. Armed with the values we
have been taught from our childhood at the
Assumption, we initiate change wherever we
go, and continue to embrace change with
hope and compassion where ever we may be.
For we are the music makerswe are the
dreamers of dreams
HS CLASS 1974:
UNITY IN DIVERSITY
By Marie de Asis Schnabel
* Taken from The Philippine Star
W
e all went to the retreat for a reason and emerged from it with a
purpose.
It isnt just those who make decisions of national consequence that
need discernment. In the crossroads that is midlife, my classmates
and I found ourselves in a weekend of spiritual soul-searching at the
Caleruega Retreat House in Batangas as some of us grappled with
empty nests and emptiness.
Thats what former classmates are for, really to organize crazy
night-outs and sobering retreats. We even requested that two former
Religion teachers Cory Villafania and Marilen Reambillo, who are both
powerhouses of spiritual knowledge and light, facilitate the retreat for us.
I craved for enlightenment on an important
aspect of my life when I packed my bags for
the overnight retreat. Others were experiencing
a spiritual drought despite a downpour of
blessings both in their professional and private
lives. Others had an almost perfect life but
wanted to do more for others. Some were
looking at the after-life and were wondering if
they should start preparing for it (so mid-life,
we were told!).
One grateful classmate, a cancer survivor,
simply said she was in the retreat because
she wanted to remember the miracles in
her life. That particularly struck me for we all
are recipients of miracles every day of our
lives. Waking up each morning and feeling
the gentle sunlight on our face is in itself life-
altering. Others dont wake up at all. But when
we go to sleep at night, do we remember the
miracle of the previous morning?
Another grateful classmate, who was
already familiar with the retreat, said in a
choked voice she simply wanted to give
back thats why she took time away from
her family to attend the retreat and help the
newbies along the way.
Some of us were teetering on the verge of
big decisions.
This was the third overnight retreat
organized by my batch. I did not have the time
or the purpose to attend the frst two retreats.
But when the time is right, when you want the
retreat as much as it wants you, all excuses,
valid or not, melt like butter in the sun. You will
fnd time. Rather, it will fnd you.
Cory and Marilen quoted from the Bible and the teachings of St. Marie
Eugenie but they also allowed us to quote from Oprah. Some of the
best quotes came from fellow classmates, who drew from a deep well of
experience and enlightenment.
A classmate shared that when despondent people complain, God
is NOWHERE in our lives they are actually in His presence. Because
NOWHERE could just as easily mean NOW HERE. Just put a space
between W and H and it becomes, God is NOW HERE in our lives.
It was this kind of openness, this free-fowing sharing from a group of
mid-lifers that really made the retreat such a miracle.
So divine.
BEING STILL
The retreat, held amid the lush Caleruega
gardens, also kept us still, as if Gods gentle
hands steadied us on our seats the way our
teachers did in kindergarten. Because we all
need to be still in order to move inward
and forward. We need to retreat in order to
charge ahead.
Our weekend retreat treaded deeply on
humility and joyful detachment. The latter is
really detachment from that which has become
your idol (material wealth, success, career,
the perfect face and fgure, etc).
To know whether or not you are doing
something for yourself alone or for others as
well, ask yourself these questions: Why do I do
what I do? For whom do I do what I do?
DIVINE TARTS
One of the best memories every Assumption
girl has of her alma mater is what they fed
her spiritual nuggets as well as Assumption
Tarts. The Assumption Tart, a concoction
of the nuns, is a faky pie crust topped with
gooey guava jam. Our batch has christened
itself The Tarts an acknowledgement of our
sweetness (?), individuality and (occasional)
sharp edges.
After our retreat, my classmate Lisa Mapua
christened those of us who emerged from it
as the Divine Tarts. We have followed up
on our divine experience during the retreat
with a prayer meeting last week, which will be
followed by another in October. We have been
encouraging and checking on each other, we who have been privy to
the deepest prayers of the others soul.
For sure, we remain imperfect. But as we go through life together, we
know we have each other, and we know we have God. And during the
times when we feel God is nowhere, one divine tart will surely remind us
that He is, now here.
NOW HERE
By Joanne Rae M. Ramirez HS 79
GET INVOLVED
ASSUMPTION OPERATION TULONG FOR
ONDOY AND PEPENG TYPHOON VICTIMS:
Contact persons:
Pinky Valdes and Sr. Regivic
Tel # - AAA Office San Lorenzo
8943561 8943580
Donations in kind or cash are accepted.
PISO PARA SA ILOG PASIG
Texts for Piso para sa Ilog Pasig
will contribute to the funding for
a cleaner Pasig River.
Text GIVE ILOG send to 2366
for Smart, Talk N Text Globe,
TM, Sun Cellular
God has done so much for me, I want to do something for Him (St. Marie Eugenie)
T
he Religious of the Assumption, Philippines-
Thailand Province will have its frst Assumption
Together Congress on January 29, 30 and 31,
2010 with Superior General Sr. Diana Wauters
and her General Council as special guests. There
will be around 500-700 delegates from all the
Friends of the Assumption groups throughout the
Philippines and Thailand.
O
n January 29, the delegates from out of town
and Thailand will meet their host families.
The Assumption Together Traveling Exhibit of best
practices will be opened on that day.
O
n January 30, the whole morning will be
devoted to a dialogue and exchange with
Sr. Diana and her Council after which there will
be simultaneous workshops throughout the day.
In the evening, the Marie Eugenie Theater of the
Assumption will present a special performance on
Assumption Together as the theme.
O
n January 31, there will be an Assumption
Together Run where we expect around 5000
participants from Friends of the Assumption. There
will be a community mass after the run and then
the provincial delegates will go on tours of special
Assumption Together projects: The housing
project called Pusong Assumptionista (Gawad
Kalinga) in Cavite, the Antipolo campus and the
Assumpta Technical High School in San Simon,
Pampanga.

T
he objective of the Congress is for all the
delegates to experience Assumption Together
as lived by all the Friends of the Assumption in the
province and to enrich their spiritual lives as they
participate in the workshops on the teachings of
our Mother Foundress.
REMINDER
W
e wish to remind you that annual fees collected go to the funding of
the various AAA projects and qualifes member to vote for incoming
Board Member during elections. In this respect, we have taken
various steps to facilitate collection. You can send your payment through:
1. AAA Office
Offce Hours: Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm
2. At the REGISTRATION table during Old Girls Day
3. During AAA Events such as Quarterly Lunches, Class Reps
Meetings, Forums, etc.
4. Over-the-Counter bank deposit
Payee: Assumption Alumnae Association
Union Bank C/A Acct #: 034030018335
Fax or email to us your receipt with your name, year of graduation, address and
phone number. Your receipt will be sent to you via mail
a
n
n
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m
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t
ASSUMPTION GET
TOGETHER CONGRESS
DOUBLE
HAPPINESS
By Tess Lopez
T
he contrast of the green rolling hills of Antipolo against
white feecy clouds foating over clear azure skies and
multihued butterfies waltzing on a myriad of fowers was
everything that made that second day of July a picture
perfect day. In harmony with nature, everyone especially
the community of Assumption Antipolo, had a reason
to celebrate and offer a hearty thanksgiving. That day,
Mother Luz Emmanuel was to celebrate not only her 74th
birthday but also her Golden Jubilee as a Religious of the
Assumption.
Asun Zubiri and myself arrived in the Antipolo campus
an hour and a half early of the scheduled Mass at ten
oclock. We were welcomed by none other than Mother
Luz herself who was looking as youthful as I remember
her in my college days. The sparkle of youth emanating
on her face actually blended very well with the freshness
of the beautiful lilies and potted plants that flled her offce.
As time went by, her special guests arrived like Bishop
Gabriel Reyes D.D. of Antipolo, Rev. Father Ernesto
Javier SJ, Brother Rolly Dizon and a host of other priests
from the Congregation of Assumption Fathers and other
congregations.
He abides in me and I in Him was the theme carried
out in the entire Mass which has been Mother Luzs adage
in her ffty years as an Assumption religious. Everything
then revolved around this- the chosen lyrics of the songs
sang by the Sisters and choir, the First Reading from the
frst letter of Paul to the Ephesians, the responsorial psalm
of thanksgiving and lastly, the touching homily of Rev.
Father Javier paying tribute to Mother Luzs ffty years of
committed life for the Lord. Finally, before Communion,
the awaited moment of renewing her vows arrived. Like a
bride being led to the altar by her father, Mother Luz was
escorted by Mother Provincial Sister Marjo together with an
entourage of R.A.s clad in their purple habits. Before the
Bishop, priests, sisters, family and alumnae, Mother Luz
once again vowed a lifetime commitment of abiding love
and service for the Lord. You have made me for Yourself..
For You alone my God.And restless is my heart.. Till it
rests in You.
After the Mass, it was agape at the multipurpose hall.
It was a gastronomic feast with two mile long tables of
sumptuous food. There was mouthwatering crispy lechon, a
whole tender roasted calf donated by Cora Atayde, pancit,
kare-kare,dinuguan, fruit salad and many more dishes.
Dessert consisted of various native delicacies like suman,
fruits and the all time favorite of everyone - dirty ice cream.
The multipurpose hall was packed with family, friends,
priests, sisters and alumnae.
The lunch was highlighted by a video presentation on the
life of Mother Luz with a nostalgic background of 40s, 50s
and 60s songs presumably Mother Luzs favorite songs. It
was a beautiful presentation produced by her loyal offce
staff which vividly portrayed how Mother Luz has lived
her life in obedience to the will of her Lord, persevering
in all her works in unity with His Love. Then Brother Rolly
Dizon presented a surprise number with the Ramos Dizon
performers imported from the land of smiles, Bacolod City.
The talented children sang and danced numbers which
entertained the guests.
Finally when the last guest left and all the festivities
faded into the arms of a setting sun, we all had faith that
a new dawn was just around the corner to gift Mother Luz
with new beginnings. We believe that in all the struggles
and challenges that will come her way, a renewed spirit of
hope, faith and continued assurance of the warm love of
the Father will always accompany her as she abides in His
Love and His love in her.
To our dearly loved Mother Luz, we thank you for
sharing so much of yourself to us. Through this shared
love, we have truly experienced the depth of His love for us.
Salamat gid, Mother Luz! May Jesus and His Mother bless
you forever!
Calling
SR. LORETTO EUGENIA L. MAPA, r.a.
Golden Jubilee celebration at Our Lady of
Hope Catholic Church, Philadelphia, PA
Sunday, February 1, 2009 (First vows taken
on February 14, 1959 at San Lorenzo Chapel)
My motto:
That the love with which You
have loved me, may be in them
and I in them
St John s gospel
Chapter 17:26
F
ifty candles were held up by members of the
community, friends, families and old girls to
commemorate Sr. Lorys ffty years of dedication and
devotion to the extension of the Lords Kingdom. They
lined the aisle as Sr. Lory walked down the aisle with
Sr. Mary Ann Azanza. Many of her fellow sisters of the
Religious of the Assumption were in attendance. The
Most Reverend Robert P. Maginnis was the celebrant and
homilist at the mass concelebrated by Father Efren V.
Esmilla, pastor of Our Lady of Hope and the frst Filipino
priest to be ordained in the archdiocese of Philadelphia.
The other priests were Fr. Armand Garcia and Fr. Denny
Toledo, SJ, Fr. Bill Ayres, Fr. Daniel Mackle, Fr. Joseph
Logrip, and Fr. Ignatius Superano, CM. The FIAT Filipino
Apostolate Choir directed by Carlos Alconaba delighted
the congregation with their beautiful music and voices, but
to hear Sr. Lory sing Take and Receive during the Liturgy
of the Eucharist was a special treat and touching moment.
After the mass, everyone was invited to a sumptuous feast
at the Social Hall at the Church basement where more
festivities ensued.

For more pictures, please visit http://www.geocities.com/
assumptionforever/
Sr. Clare T (former Sup. Gen.), Sr. Eugenia Guadalupe, (visiting from Mexico), Sr. Sheila, Sr. Anne Joseph, Sr. Carolyn, Sr. Silvia, Sr. Benedicte, Sr. Therese Agnes, Sr. Therese Margaret,
Sr. Charlotte and Sr. Michelle.
Old Girls from New York and D.C. Chapters came for the celebration
Connecting
HELLO FROM YOUR NORTH AMERICAN
FELLOW ASSUMPTIONISTAS!
T
he Assumption Alumnae Association of BC
recently installed a new Board of Directors.
Priscilla Estrada once again sits as President
supported by the usual group of active members.
As our frst fundraising project for the new
board, we produced a very successful back to
back concert featuring our very own talent, Joey
Albert-Pacis, together with Philippine favorite,
David Pomeranz. It was a sold out concert and
everyone was impressed with the quality of
entertainment, talent and music provided by the
captivating duo. An initial donation was made to
the Maryville Foundation for the construction of
the chapel in our Pusong Asssumptionista GK
Village in Imus, Cavite.
We are also happy to report that our AAABC
chapter here in Vancouver won the bid to host
the next AAAA triennial reunion in 2011. We are
honored and excited to host this event and promise
to make it a truly memorable one.
L to R 1sr row: Joey Albert-Pacis, Pauline Estrada Gamboa, Maricelle Africa-Lim, Wennie Montano-
Santos, Cynthia Macasaet-Cruz. 2nd Row: Priscilla Limjuco-Estrada, Mariju Lopez-Larosa, Zita
Gabaldon, Marianne Montano-Santos. Back Row: Marissa Aguirre-Pena, Jojo Imperial-Mariano,
Vangie Andal-Santos. (Not in photo Bing Santos-Yatco)
Seated: Lily Tamayo Tanaka, PRO; Leni Barretto Shinn, President;
Maricel Coronel Domingo, Auditor. Standing: Consuelo Moreno
Kahn Haire, Vice-President; Josie Valdes Harris, Diding Locsin (HS
72) (member);; Secretary, Odette Aquitana Ricasa, Board Member;
and Lou Sayson Mendoza, Treasurer
WATCH US
SIZZLE IN
SOUTHERN
CALIFORNIA
By Leni Barretto Shinn, with Diding Locsin
S
outhern California chapter has a new set of offcers On
a cool day in early November 2008, AAAA-SC voted
a new Board of Directors to lead them over the next three
years. Our election was held at a lovely place Los Verdes
Golf Course in Rancho Palos Verdes, a picturesque coastal
facility managed by fellow Assumptionista, Natasha Kosloff.
Newly-elected leaders pledged to continue the work initiated
by previous AAAA-SC presidents and to carry forward the
chapters goals and objectives working together as one in
fulfllment of their duties and responsibilities.
December 14, outgoing ofcers nal event for 2006-2008
term Under outgoing chapter president Elisa Gaite Adams,
AAAA-SCs annual Christmas holiday luncheon was held at
the same beautiful Los Verdes facility. For a few members
husbands, the day began at 6 a.m. when they reported to
the greens to play their favorite sport At 11 a.m., luncheon
attendees assembled for a special Mass celebrated for us by
our beloved Bishop Oscar Azarcon Solis. On display before
the altar was a quilt of Saint Marie Eugenie handmade by
Josie Harris (see attached Photo 2). Auxiliary Bishop Solis is
not only the frst Filipino-American to be ordained a bishop in
the United States, he is also the frst bishop ordained in Our
Lady of Angels Cathedral (2004). He now heads the Ethnic
Ministries and Offce of Justice and Peace of the Archdiocese
in Los Angeles.
Throughout lunch, a lively holiday fair and silent auction
was in progress in a room that opened to the ballroom.
Luncheon attendees freely wandered in all afternoon to shop
for Assumption memorabilia, delicious home-baked foods and
jewelry items. Each AAAA-SCs annual holiday luncheon has
been different from the previous years event and yet they are
all, without exception, memorable (see attached Photo 3
Label: Christmas at Palos Verdes).
December 27, 2008, new board meets Prior to the start
of their three-year term, the newly-elected board met for an
introductory meeting. Over high tea at the Huntington Library
in Pasadena, they got to know each other better, discussed
AAAA-SCs by-laws, and developed a better understanding of
each members role and responsibilities. Everyone enjoyed a
tour of the Huntingtons celebrated exhibits, particularly the
Japanese and Chinese gardens and the art collections.
January 10, 2009, the kick-off meeting Chapter President
Leni Barretto Shinn presented her design a sturdy oak tree
as a motif to represent AAAA-SC. Its roots represented
the basic tenets of our foundation: Fidelity to Duty, Love
of Simplicity and Love of Our God and Native Land. The
main trunk represented the entire organization, consisting
of chapter members and board of directors. Four branches
represented the four committees organized to focus on AAAA-
SCs goals: charitable, religious, and educational projects.
These four committees were designated as Spiritual, Fund-
raising, Fun and Support. Kick-off meeting was well attended,
and everyone present was eager and excited to help the
organization achieve its goals (see attached Photo 4).
February 7, 2009, reception for Sister Loretto
Assumptions Southern California chapter welcomed Sister
Loretto Mapa, r.a., when she arrived in Los Angeles from
Philadelphia. She was on her way to the Philippines to
celebrate with family and friends her 50 years as a religious of
the Assumption. The L.A. reception for her was spearheaded
by chapter PRO Lily Tamayo-Tanaka, which started with a
special Mass said in Glendales Incarnation parish church by
Bishop Solis, thanks to the efforts of chapter auditor Maricel
Coronel Domingo. Enid Sevilla and Lily worked together to
produce a beautiful misalette. Chapter secretary Josie Valdes
presented a handmade quilt and scrapbook to Sr. Lory. Leni
Taken at the home of our new Filipino Ambassador
to Spain - Ms. Ana Sequera de Ugarte. Ms. Margo
Heredia was our previous president at the AAAF
(Asociacion de Alumnas de la Asuncion de Filipinas
en Espaa). This is the offcial name we have
registered here in Spain.

Seated L-R
Margo Heredia, Ana Sequera de Ugarte, Olga
Garcia, Tere Biel
Standing : Gina Africa Aboitiz
Taken in our AAAF Meeting:
Seated L-R (Offcers of the Board)
Olga Garcia, Tere Biel, Flossie Infante, Celia Teves

Standing L-R (Members of the Board)
Marisol Garcia Galatas, Peachy Tanco, Vicky Legarza,
Cynthia Blanch, Marilen Martinez, Mercedes Legarza

President: Tere Biel
Vice Pres. Olga Garcia
Treasurer: Flossie Infante
Secretary: Celia Teves
A.A.A.F. (Asociacin de Alumnas de la Asuncin de
Filipinas en Espaa)

Missing in our photo are Board Members: Ms. Hanna de
la Riva, Ms. Carmen del Prado and Ms. Sandra Padilla.
There are 13 (4 offcers and 9 Board members)
ASOCIACION DE ALUMNAS DE LA
ASUNCION DE FILIPINAS EN ESPAA
OCTOBER 2009 32
Connecting
Assumpta
brought a newly commissioned statue of MME for blessing. After the
Mass, everyone went to QQ Chinese Restaurant for some lunch and
camaraderie. Sister Loretto was pleased with the turnout including the
bright and beautiful L.A. weather. As she later e-mailed us, Every time
I think of the jubilee celebration with you, with Bishop
Solis and all of you present, it all just seemed like a
dream and I have not completely awakened!!! Thank you
so much for all that you have done and may God and St.
Marie Eugenie reward you for such good work you are all
doing in His name! It was indeed a day to remember.
April 26, 2009, Kundirana Chapters next event was
a concert featuring the Kundirana, a singing ministry from
La Salle Green Hills. The choral group performed in Palos
Verdes during their annual U.S. visit and they were hosted
by AAAA-SC Vice President Consuelo Moreno Haire. The
performance was a joint effort by Kundirana and AAAA-
SC to raise funds for the needy in the Philippines. It turned
out to be a very successful and well-attended concert. To
celebrate the event, Leni designed a beautiful souvenir
program which generated some funds for the chapter.
August 15, 2009, Assumption Day retreat AAAA-SCs
annual retreat is always an opportunity for Assumptionistas and their
families and friends to gather in spiritual contemplation for a full day.
This years retreat was held at St. Joseph Center in Alhambra, California.
We were together for breakfast, lunch, merienda
and dinner as we listened to the inspiring talks of
our retreat leader, Father Tom Allender, S.J.. Feel
free to check Father Allenders Web site: www.
lifesministry.com. Father Tom also has a link on
YouTube: www.youtube.com/lifeSministry.
AAAA-SC has its own Web site: http://aaaasc.
weebly.com/index.html Our public relations
offcer, Georgia Lily Tamayo-Tanaka, set up an
online site to help us stay in touch with what
the chapter is doing. We invite all alumnae to
visit our site and thereby join us in body, mind
and spirit! See how we honor the Assumption
with our alumnae endeavors. All of us in
AAAA-SC extend our welcome to you and
yours. Please be sure to e-mail us to arrange
for a get-together when you visit California.
Assumption forever!
T
he AAAA New York Chapters BOSES event on May 1,
2009 was a resounding success!
More than 600 guests braved the rain even at the height
of the swine fu pandemic. The AAAA DC Chapter even
chartered a bus and trekked all the way from Washington
to Manhattan to attend this event. For that one enchanted
evening, people seemed to have chosen to throw caution
to the wind and forget about their worries and the
recession to join us for the NYC premiere of Boses, a flm
about the redemption of the human spirit and the healing
power of music, directed by our very own Ellen Ongkeko-
Marfl, H.S. 77.
The evening opened with a press conference with Ellen,
Ricky Davao and the Alumnae board which was followed
by a cocktail reception. Our event was covered by the
local Filipino press in New York as well as satellite news
teams from ABS-CBN and GMA Manila.
Promptly at 6:45pm, we kicked-off our program with an
awe-inspiring rendition of The Star Spangled Banner by
Ateneo alumna Cutuy Herrera (acapella no less!), followed
by an upbeat version of Bayang Magiliw by Assumption
alumna Zelda Tangonan-Fourcade and opening remarks
by AAAA NY President Linden Martinez.
Boses screened at 7:00pm followed by video clip
messages from cast members Julian Duque (actor, child
prodigy - violin) and his real-life mentor Coke Bolipata.
The musical program opened with a solo performance
on guitar by Michael Dadap, Artistic Director of the
Childrens Orchestra Society of New York. For his second
number, he accompanied Rickys rendition of Kulay
Rosas (salinawit of the French La Vie En Rose).
Ricky then charmed
the audience with
many more 70 and
80s classics and
ended with a much
applauded O Sole
Mio. To cap off
the evening, Ricky
invited the Alumnae
board, and our guests, Ellen, Michael and our
kiddie crew to join him on stage to sing Manila! Manila!
Just hours before our NY premier, it was announced
in Manila that Boses won Best Film, Best Director, Best
Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Musical Score and Best
Breakthrough Performance by a Child Actor in the Golden
Screen Awards (local version of the Golden Globe Awards)
in Manila.
It was a 9 month journey from September 2008 to May
2009. It was truly a labor of love with a lot of hard work
and many late or even sleepless nights but once we got
there, we knew that it was all worth it. That evening, it was
all about celebrating and pure and simple FUN!
Through this event, the AAAA was able to accomplish
two major goals we set for the next three years:
To create a meaningful (and fun!) event to support our
chapters thrust of Raising Awareness and Making a
Difference and to highlight alumnae who are making a
difference anywhere in world.
We found the perfect combination in BOSES. Proceeds
from this event was shared with various groups in the
Philippines working to stop violence against children.
BOSES
By Vina Francisco 82, Gigi Jacinto-Jones 76
Connecting
ASSUMPTION
THABOM
A
ssumption-Thabom is probably unheard of to many
ASSUMPTA readers. But to some it is not anymore just
a place, it is an experience.
Thabom is located in the northeast of Thailand, close
to the Mekong River that separates Thailand and Laos.
Even on not so clear days, one can stand by the riverbank
of Chiangkhan District and see clearly the temple and
the houses on Laotian soil across the river. Assumption
is a good 20 kilometers from the Mekong River and 520
kilometers from Bangkok.
HOW DID ASSUMPTION COME TO THABOM?
Early 1997 during the Asian Educators Congress held
in Antipolo. The Thai lay representative, Mr. Chainarong
Monthienvichienchai attended with 2 RAs to represent
Assumption Thailand. At that time, he was Executive
Director of St. Johns Group of Schools in Bangkok. He
was so impressed by our work of education particularly
in Assumpta in San Simon Pampanga. It was the answer
to a long-nourished dream to have a school for the less
privileged who cannot come to St. Johns in the city.
As soon as A. Chainarong returned to Thailand, he lost
no time in presenting his report to the Board of St. Johns.
His proposal to have an Assumpta was unanimously
approved, and he was put in-charge of the project. Bishop
George Phimphisan of Udonthani Diocese had a ready
response. In his diocese, a particular parish had long been
asking for a high school so that the young people who fnish
grade school need not go out of the village which meant
added expenses and even danger.
A.Chainarong went to a place called Thabom which
was not at all indicated in the map. He liked what he saw
and felt it was THE place for the school of their dreams,
but would the Sisters be able to live there? There was
no running water, no market, no stores. But there was a
beautiful Church and a big Catholic Community. How then,
was A. Chainarong going to fnd out if the Sisters could live
in Thabom? A. Chainarongs wife, A. Chintana suggested
that they take a trip to Pakjan, in Ranong Province in the
south where the other Community of Assumption Sisters
were still carrying on the mission. After taking a seven
hour car ride, and an overnight stay, they found out for
themselves how the Sisters lived there. It convinced them
that if the Sisters could like in Pakjan, they could live in
Thabom. In Pakjan, the Sisters were living in what used to
be a small community-center renovated by the villagers
to look like a convent that is, with a little chapel added
to the side, and half of the hall divided into 6 small cells.
The sky provided rain water for drinking. Many people have
been welcomed to that little house! The sisters experienced
Gods Hand feeding them through the villagers who would
bring rice, cooked food, or just leave fruits and vegetables
outside their door or window.
By a Provincial decision in 1998, it was decided that the
Assumption sisters will leave Pakjan because the group of
coffee and fruit growers that the Sisters had help form and
followed up over the years was now able to stand on their
own, managing their own revolving funds and strengthening
their own group structure.
Although the foundation in Thabom was approved in
1998, the Sisters started the foundation only in May 2001.
In partnership with St. Johns, they started a high school,
receiving about 70 young people for SY 2001-2002. The
Sisters lived in a small house next to the Grade School
which is in the same area as the Church.
By Sr. Deanna Combong, r.a.
In 2003, St. Johns built a beautiful three-storey building
on the plot of land that had been procured for this purpose.
The Sisters moved to one part of the building which also
served as their convent. It was not until February 2006 that
the Sisters moved into their own house - the frst and only
house they call their own. After 26 years in Thailand they
fnally had their own address.
Assumption - Thabom is on its eighth year of mission.
It is eight years of a journey not only geographically, but
a journey into peoples lives, their customs and traditions,
their language and culture, their own world view. It is an
inner journey that enables them to discover the depths of
their own need for God and the zeal to make Him known
and loved , a journey marked by joy as they discover that
God is indeed among His people and that the power of
His Love alone transforms.
The students come from more than 50 villages. Although
Thabom is a Catholic community, only 10 per cent of the
students are Catholics. The rest are Buddhists. Some
of them make an hour-long trip through mountain roads
just to study here. Many parents work in the big cities as
construction or factory workers. Others work in rubber
plantations or are hired to gather corn. A few cultivate their
own felds for a living.
Assumption San Lorenzo and with the help of the Family
Council, teachers, college students and British volunteers
in their Gap Year have visited Thabom to assist in teaching
English and other needs. Regular visits from all over have
assured the Sisters of the communion that exists between
them and the rest of the Assumption family.
When the Community of three Sisters - Catalina Maria
Silva, Deanna Maria Combong and Mary Cecilia Claparols
left the Philippines in 1980 to begin the foundation in
Thailand little did they know
that the Spirit would take
them on a missionary
journey from the south to
the central region to the
northeast of Thailand. But
wherever the Spirit leads
them, they shall remember
that the frst thing they
need to do is to take off
their shoes lest they step
on peoples dreams and
forget that God was there before their arrival.
FOR HOW CAN THEY DOUBT GOD WAS HERE
BEFORE THEM?
The Sisters wake up early in the morning with the hills in
full view as they pray in their little chapel. Sometimes the
fog envelops the whole area and in December and January
the temperature takes a dip to as low as seven degrees.
Firefies twinkle in the night. They are in the company of our
Lady whose statue stands in a corner. Their Mother-Saint -
St. Marie Eugenie is by their side, the missionary cross and
Blessed Sacrament before them, the birds just outside the
windows spontaneously joining in their singing.
Unseen from the highway, unmarked in the mapwho
but God knew that the Assumption was to fnd a dwelling
in such a place? How privileged and blessed is the
Assumption to have been brought here by a God who was
already waiting for her so that He can manifest that here,
too is a place for His glory!
M
Y

L
A
P
T
O
P

S
T
O
R
Y
By MARCIA EVANGELISTA- SANDOVAL
When the
machine came
I got terrified!
How on earth
could I manage
such a complex
technology; I can
barely manage on
the cellular bit.
But I remembered
what an old
friend told me,
With a computer
you can do
anything with it
and it will not
break down.
A
lmost all of my friends have a computer.
In a once upon a time, I was a writer. I
told myself I can still type, hence I should also
have a computer. Knowing what a computer
costs I had to see how I could get one for
free. In these times of fnancial crisis its a
diffcult task to ASK! But I do have a brother,
who is generous, kind and handsome and
knows my wants O, too well! He rather
spoils me at times (not all of the time) and by
the grace of God, I can get away with murder
with him, if the winds blow well in my favor!
I sent Nesty, my brother, a letter, asking
him to give me a Christmas present, and
stated it had to be a laptop. As addendum
I told him, if he does not give me one, I will
not include him in my obituary. Laptop came
faster than lightning! Hence, I had a merry
Christmas thanks to Santa Nesty.
When the machine came I got terrifed!
How on earth could I manage such a
complex technology; I can barely manage
on the cellular bit. But I remembered what
an old friend told me, With a computer
you can do anything with it and it will not
break down.
So I fumbled, asked help around
(granddaughter Celine and my sons Robie
and Bong, who are both impatient with my
dormant grey matter). The trick, I learned
from my dear friend Ning, is to get a separate
keyboard and a mouse (not the animal kind)
And so it was that the keyboard turned out to
be simply a continuation of my old typewriter,
except this machine is much too clever and
has short cuts that works like magic!
And so it came to pass that with the laptop
I was able to reach out to friends of long ago;
touch base with a priest cousin who is now
retired and lives in Massachusetts regularly
keep up with a daughter who lives in Murcia,
Spain; get local mail from friends, sometimes
friends of friends! Having been a writer, I also
got a job writing for local culinary magazines
(who were delighted to get me in their staff);
the thrills seem endless. I still have to fnd
Richard Geres email, so I can send him my
love letters
So theres the fun you can get out of a
computer. Dont use Old Age to frighten
you; I am very old, but I will not accept it as
a handicap. To operate a computer use a bit
of intuition, use a lot of faith in yourself and
type away. You will fnd yourself terribly busy,
having great fun and most amused with your
new toy!
Transitioning
By Carmelita Roxas Natividad HS49
At our age, it
is a given that
death has become
an inevitable
occurrence among
our peers so that
our mortality
is now a reality
so glaring and
so close. This
period in our
lives compels us
to wonder what
life would be
like after death.
Is the after-life
something akin to
what we know it
to be in our world
but with the
difference that
sufferings and
human frailties do
not exist ?
CONTEMPLATING
THE UNKNOWN
M
ore than a half century ago, 75 teen age girls
graduated from the Assumption College in Herran
the high school class of 1949.. We were in the prime of
our youth anxious to start a new life as adults armed with
the motto we opted to live by -Fidelity to Duty.
Six decades later, sixteen from our class have died
and only God knows how many more are in the process
of dying. They were professionals, wives, mothers who
conducted themselves in the Christian tradition of the fear
of God and goodwill to everyman. Fidelity to duty was
indeed the component that determined their priorities in
their choices and dealings. They were Assumptionists,
(a noun I chose to use as an adjective} which to me tells
all that is right and good about how they lived their lives
through their personal Rite of Passage.
At our age, it is a given that death has become an
inevitable occurrence among our peers so that our mortality
is now a reality so glaring and so close. This period in our
lives compels us to wonder what life would be like after
death. Is the after-life something akin to what we know it to
be in our world but with the difference that sufferings and
human frailties do not exist ?
I was reared by parents steeped in religiosity and good
conduct. My growing up was in the most part done in
convents where religion was central to my education. From
this partnership of home and school ensued an individual
(me) with a very fanatical outlook of what being a roman
catholic is all about. I abided by the rules and lived my life in
the manner required by the church and would have become
just a bit short of being a saint myself if all that was needed
was a fdelity to the rites and rituals.
I would consider it my saving grace that doubts as to
the truth of what was being taught to me began to bother
my state of contentment and bliss. With the doubts came
questions so that I spent most of my mid-life seeking
answers that would somehow lay my doubts to rest. But
with the answers came more questions and soon I realized
there was no end to the quest for the process had become
evolutionary that led to higher and higher dimensions of
awareness. It soon became clear to me that to get to the
fnal answer which I consider to be Chardins Omega point,
I must reach a state of perfection that cannot be achieved
in this lifetime. Jesus Christ came down to earth as proof
that such a perfection can indeed be achieved. Heaven in
all its glory, peace and love.
I like to refer to the after-life as the Unknown To me
there is no way one can conceive what heaven is truly
all about. To some
heaven is our mansion
in the sky encrusted
with diamonds and
paved with gold. For
others it is where
our loved ones await
us behind a gated
.place manned by
a man called peter
and where God also
resides. Basically
many believers make
heaven sound like
a place very much
similar to what
we have here but
without the pain
and the sufferings
This is because we
use human tools
and experiences to
describe it.
How sad we
can only refer to the
unknown by using our
very limited human
equipments. Our
system of language
is based on human
experience so
that having never
experienced heaven,
we are wont to
use tools that cannot truly defne it. What attracted me
to the practice of Zen is its recognition that words are
human inventions that cannot apply to other dimensions
of existence That is why their meditation is a quiet silence
where even the mind is deprived of all thoughts.
So ask me what the Unknown is like, I can only
respond in soothing quiet, serene stillness within the
sounds of silence.
MISSION
SUNDAY
By Maria L. Balmaceda HS 83
I
t is Mission Sunday and I fnd myself in our old school
chapel wearing my red plaid uniform and seated next
to a nun in a deep purple habit. The chapel is bathed in
midmorning sunshine and strains of familiar mass songs
echo from the choir loft. The scene has repeatedly played
in my dreams and sometimes, even during my waking
hours. But this is not a dream. It happened for real. And
I am 47 years old.
Our school chapel had always been my refuge and
solace. The location itself was insignifcant. I felt the same
way about the old Herran chapel in grade school; the chapel
in San Lorenzo when we were in high school; and even
the Antipolo chapel which I saw for the frst time just fve
years ago. It must be the mere fact that it is in our school.
It could be the way the nuns took care of it. It could be
the fower arrangements, the simple furniture or the lifting
voices when they sang hymns of joy. It could have been
because it was the only place in school where no one can
bother you and you can just be yourself with your thoughts.
The chapel is always the starting point for Old Girls Day
a term that now sounds politically incorrect to refer to our
alumni homecoming. On this day which always falls on
Mission Sunday alumnae return to the school grounds
wearing our uniform. Hardly anyone, obviously, wears her
original set of plaids. In most likelihood it had been ordered
from the school seamstress for the occasion. Donning the
uniform does not only symbolize our return to our roots; it
becomes an equalizer. It makes us all look the same.
Before the mass started, the usually serene chapel was
buzzing with excitement as women of all ages squealed
and squeaked at the sight of long-lost classmates. The
Bishop who would celebrate the mass, in fact, had been
observing the pandemonium and looked quite amused. It
took Sister Gertrude much patience and eventually, some
forcefulness, to silence the assembly before the mass could
actually begin.
It was only my second time to be in our new old chapel.
It had undergone a much-needed facelift at about the
same time that Mother Foundress was canonized. I like
how it now looks; it is in tune with the 21st century and yet
it did not lose its solemnity. There is now air-conditioning
and natural light from the cathedral ceiling skylights. The
contemporary sanctuary is a tasteful interplay of marble,
natural stone, steel and wood. A framed image of St. Marie
Eugenie of Jesus occupies its place of honor to the left of
the altar. There is even an LCD fat screen for responses
and song lyrics. But the most imposing detail of our new old
chapel was the nearly foor-to-ceiling stained glass mosaic
of Our Lady of the Assumption her hands outstretched,
welcoming all her daughters back home.
There was nothing extraordinary about this particular
Mission Sunday mass. I have, in my lifetime, attended
hundreds of similar masses. But toward the end of the
celebration, I experienced a moment that completely
transformed that morning mass.
Just before the fnal blessing, the commentator announced
that the congregation was to sing Assumpta Est Maria. I
like to think of this as our Latin school song although it is
not, in any way, a translation of our real school song. Every
true-blooded Assumptionist can sing Assumpta Est Maria
by heart and in the voice she originally learned (it is typically
sung in three voices). Singing Assumpta Est Maria always
uplifts me.
When we all began singing, I noticed how some of the
nuns who were seated in front of me automatically glanced
sideward toward the glass mosaic of Our Lady. It was
clearly a gesture of deference. But what really defned the
moment was the reaction of Sister Pilar, the nun seated
next to me.
Sister Pilar is one of the older nuns in the community
and the years may have slowed her down physically but
she remains very sharp and focused. Side by side we
sang our Latin homage to the Blessed Mother and when
it ended she looked up at Our Lady, clasped her hands
together, closed her eyes and let out what I thought was
the most beautiful, peaceful and thankful smile I had ever
seen in my life. It was a radiant smile that seemed to refect
her thoughts: Your daughters are all here today, Blessed
Mother, to honor your Son through you and that the world
with all its challenges is all right.
That smile brought me back to the Assumption chapel
of my childhood to the early morning masses with birds
chirping along as the nuns sang their songs of praise
to the fragrance of incense at Benedictionto my First
Holy Communion in my white organza dressto all the
lessons we learned and lifelong friendships forged to a
community where I felt nothing but love, understanding,
humility and faith.
With that smile, I fnally discovered the link between Old
Girls Day and Mission Sunday it is for us to reaffrm our
own personal mission in our life as a wife, mother, sister,
friend, nun, teacher or professional and most especially, as
a daughter of Our Lady of the Assumption.
Assumpta est Maria! Indeed, the heavens take delight
and happiness that the Blessed Mother has been borne
aloft on angel wings to be with her Most Beloved Son.
Transforming
But the most imposing detail of our new old chapel was the nearly floor-
to-ceiling stained glass mosaic of Our Lady of the Assumption her hands
outstretched, welcoming all her daughters back home.
SAVORING
MILKY WAYS
FAVORITES
By Popsie Gamboa
E
ven before I stepped into Prep C classroom in Assumption Herran in
1969, I already knew how to spell Almond, Atis and Avocado,
the frst three favors listed in the ice cream menu of our restaurant. I
knew how to count, at least until 20, because I helped count the pastillas,
and I knew how to make bows to festoon the hundreds of baskets we
would sell every Christmas.
My one big playground before I discovered Herrans giant quadrangle
and Antipolos rolling hills was our restaurant, the Milky Way, located in the
San Miguel district of Old Manila, a stones throw away from Malacaang
and the old San Miguel Brewery. To me, it was every childs dream to live
above an ice cream factory that produced 26 ice cream favors and 4
buco sherbets that my sisters Gina, Malu and I could enjoy any time we
wanted to!
Established in the early 1950s as a dairy bar in Old San Miguel, Milky
Way is still a favorite among lovers of good, home-style Filipino cooking.
The Famous Milky Way of ice creams, buco lechias sherbet, chicken
asparagus sandwich and the best in Pampango cuisine like Ox Tongue
Asado, authentic Kapampangan Dinuguan, Barbecued Spareribs, Halo-
Halo and adobo pusit.
Many Old Girls who visit our branches remember their fond Milky Way
memories, particularly reminiscing about the branch of my Lola which was
at the corner of Remedios and A. Mabini, very close to the Assumption
in Herran. They remember being treated by their parents after exams
and when they had good grades to buko sherbet and their choice of ice
cream sundaes with outlandish names like Strawberry Lindomar and Isle
of Golland.
Today the chicken asparagus sandwich and adobo pusit cooked in
authentic Kapangpangan way are the family timeless favorites. For all of
you hankering for a taste of Milky Way wherever you may be, here are two
easy recipes for you to try at home.
CHICKEN ASPARAGUS
SANDWICH
6 slices loaf bread
Mayonnaise
80 grams chicken, boiled
and shredded,
mixed with mayonnaise
8 pieces canned
asparagus spears, drained
Iceberg lettuce
Tomato slices
1. Trim off edges of bread.
2. Thinly spread mayonnaise on one side of a slice of bread.
3. Top these with lettuce
and tomato.
4. Spread mayonnaise on both sides of a second slice of bread and lay
it on top of the
lettuce and tomato layer.
5. Arrange the shredded chicken and asparagus on top of the second
slice of bread.
6. Spread mayonnaise on the third slice of bread and top the
chicken layer.
7. Cut the sandwich into 4 triangles.
8. Repeat with the 3 remaining slices of bread.
ADOBONG PUSIT
1.4 kg squid, cleaned
42 cl vinegar
Oil to saute
85 gm onion
50 gm garlic
6 pc green fnger peppers
salt and pepper, to taste
1. Choose fresh squid from the market.
The smaller ones tend to be more tender
and tasty.
2. Wash squid under clean running water.
Carefully remove the plastic looking thing and the
ink sac. Save the ink in a bowl to use later.
3. Heat oil in a pan and saut the garlic and
onion until fragrant and soft. Add the reserved
ink, mixing well to combine. and then the vinegar.
Allow to gently simmer without stirring until the acidic smell of the
vinegar dissipates.
4. Add squids and fnger peppers. Allow to cook for a few minutes until
squid is cooked.
5. Season to taste with salt and pepper
Editors Note:
For as long as the Gamboa sisters were in school, the Family Council could
count on Tita Julies support. Be it a school fair/festival or requirements for
food concessionairs, Milky Way was there. Tita Julie herself would man the
counters. And it can now be told that they would donate the food as well
as proceeds of the days sales in secret. After all these year, we say THANK
YOU VERY MUCH to the Gamboa Family for their support to the community.
Savoring
O
ctober 19, 2008. 6 a.m. I was up
bright and early for Old Girls Day,
not an easy feat considering whole day
rehearsals and a Techanical Dress Show
the day before.
10 a.m. In the chapel, my classmates
and I were back in the red plaid. As the
wise Bishop Bacani who offciated our Old
Girls Day Mass said in his homily, we had
the same youthful glow of 25 years ago and
almost the same shapes and fgures. To
that, we resoundingly chorused, Amen.
12 noon. The mass was over and we
feasted on a truly gourmet Cibo lunch. It
was the frst time that Old Girls Day lunch for over
250 Assumptionists from all batches was hosted by
the Silver Jubilarians. But we in Batch 1983 had a
lot of help from Margarita Fores, sister of Silver Girl,
Bledes Fores Legarda. Margaritas CIBO turned 13
years oldand she generously commemorated her
anniversary with our jubilee.
3 30 p.m. Showtime! Director Freddie Santos
was punctiliously punctual. Heads bowed and hands
clasped , Sister Gertrude led us in prayer. Invoking
God and St. Eugenie, we had butterfies in our
stomachs but were determined to put on one heck of
a show! The Velada was rolling!
Chapter 1. Our Balikbayans, all 18 of them who
few in from the US, Guam, Australia, China, Singapore
led the National Anthem. Some eyes were misty,
it had been awhile since some of them sang the
Lupang Hinirang.
Chapter 2. We all joined the Balikbayans.
Bearing candles, we sang the Assumpta Est Maria
with our voices and our hearts. That song brought
back memories of youthful days. Truly, we were
coming home.
Chapter 3. As a tribute to the closing of St.
Eugenies canonization year, we staged the only ballet
ever danced in an Assumption Velada. A corps de
ballet was led by European Dance Sport Champion
Anna Periquet and dance pro Aileen Azarraga
Fabregas . They billowed, glided and foated through
their arabesques, pirouettes and splits. A Hong Kong-
based brother of a classmate was moved to exclaim
that this was no sophomore presentation. It was
really professional!
Chapter 4. Assumption San Lorenzo was 50 years
old .Like our school, age and time had helped us fnd
our Corner of the Sky and all of us sang Id like to
be where my spirit can run free with deep feeling. My
mother, in the audience, cried at this point. My Ana is
now all grown up, she said. What a compliment to
our performance that we moved you, Ma, and what a
testament to motherhood that I am forever youthful in
your eyes.
Chapter 5. Crickette Yu Tantoco, Velada Chair,
welcomed our guests. She remembered our high
school days when we used to live in vivid color and
said that through the Velada, we wanted to live out
loud again.
Chapter 6. And so we lived out loud again,
bursting back on stage in a colorful pageantry of
resplendent costumes with fanfare and panache.
Our batch slogan PROUD TO BE was coined out
of pride for our Assumption values . We used
moviedoms most famous characters to symbolize
the grace , beauty, advocacy, strength and wisdom
of every Assumptionist. Sashaying down the ramp
we conjured Helen of Troy, Cleopatra, Mulan,
Pocahontas, Lara Croft, Belle, Snow White, Nala,
Charlies Angels, Esmeralda, Cinderella, Anna of King
and I, Maria of Sound of Music, Ariel , Maria Clara and
Darna. Much applauded, the Woman of Substance
Parade showcased the heroism of women unbowed
by lifes twists and turns and with faith intact. Truly, this
is the Assumption way!
Chapter 7. We handed it over to our sisters from
the other batches. The Golden Girls , brought the
house down with their genre switch from gentle Filipino
folk dances to the rocking Annie Batungbacal. The
Rubies ignited the stage with their high fdelity, high
intensity Disco dancing. We were then transported
Recalling
By Ana de villaSingson
A SILVER GIRLS MEMOIRS
OF OLD GIRLS DAY 2008
to Greece, where the Jades reprised
Mama Mia in their retro white and
emerald fared bootleg pantsuits. The
Pearls showcased animated flms,
dancing and kickboxing with headturning
headpieces of Nemo, Sharks Tale, Kung
Fu Panda, et al. And the Diamonds, these
gems of women, serenaded us in French
.Their lead soprano, the indefatigable
Linda Fabella, brought tears to our eyes.
Bravo ! The full repertoire of Assumption
talent was on showand what a truly gifted and forever young
thespic cast we had !
Chapter 8. But we were far from done. The Silver Girls came
back with a glitzy dance revue .We glided elegantly through
Ginger Rogers Ballroom dance and firted with Latin Samba. We
frolicked with Beach Girl moves and brought the house down (or
so we thought !) with our hip-throwing grasskirt-clad Hawaiian
dancers . We rocked to our high school disco songs and even
braved the backbending , bonebreaking. Hiphop.
Chapter 9. For the frst time ever, a turnover ceremony was
held in a Velada. As Old Girls Day Chair, I spoke at the turnover.
I noted that this was really a timehonored tradition because
each Velada was living proof of the continuity of Assumption
values, a shining beacon in these very trying times. Verna
Villanueva, Batch Head, then spoke of how the values on flm
were replicated and replayed daily in our real lives.Then, as an
entire Assumption Community, we sang All Hail to our Beloved
Assumption I was battling tears at this point, as were many of
my classmates.
Chapter 10. It was
upbeat thus far, but
we had not yet fully
crescendoed. We had
one last dance number.
We celebrated our high
school days, our journey
from Assumption, our
womanhood as we
danced to Lets Groove Tonight ! Jet
green laser lights strobed, confetti rained down, fog machines
rendered the moment surreal. The dance and the whole Velada
was a celebration of our lives ! Triumphant, we called the
audience to dance with us on stage. Lifes a giftso dance to
its rhythm!
9 p.m. We were in Nuvo, sans costumes, in a post-Velada
party. Many hilarious awards were given. We danced some
more, reluctant to let Velada Fever die down. It had intoxicated
many of us.
January 17, 2009. Old Girls Day is long over. But by now,
we know that it was not an ending. It was a foreshadowing
of greater things to come. There is greatness in lasting
friendships and experiences still to be shared . There is strength
in values that bind us.And while we know that the road ahead
cannot be divined, we take comfort in knowing that we have our
values to stand on and our friends to stand by us. Truly, that is
the beauty of an Assumption education. It never really ends.
From all of us in Batch 1983, we thank you all for the
memories and look forward to making new ones. One more
time, Batch 83 shouts out loud: We are PROUD TO BE !
November 15 and 22, 2009
9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Hotel Inercontinental Manila
Makati City
Assumption Alumnae Association, Inc.
Assumption College, San Lorenzo Village, Makati City
Tel. No.: 894-3561 / Telefax: 894-3580
Email: [email protected]
Contact Persons: Everly / Maggie
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OCTOBER 2009 42
Recalling
Assumpta
DIAMOND
JUBILARIANS
HS 48
From Left 1st Row: Asuncion Jalandoni Yaptangco, Belen Ang Casemiro, Erlinda Fabella De Carolis, Digna Agra Roxas, Espe Briones Blanco, Ma. Lourdes Estella, Maurita Reyes Segui
Aurea Evangelista Sarmenta, Pacita Qua, Letty Afable Ybiernas
2nd Row: Josefna Poblete Leyson, Virginia Gonzales Pantaleon, Lolita Ledesma Jardalesa, Teresita Locsin Gana, Aida Antonio Lopez, Teresita Lizares Andaya, Teresita Ledesma
Granada, Mary Luis Gancayco, Purifcacion Corpus, Maria Luisa Montaner Lovero, Editha Valdomer Uson
3rd Row: Asuncion Soriano Jalandoni, Milagros Von Heiland Lane, Cecilia Mapa Manalo, Chloe Cruz Periquet, Gloria Valenzuela, Felicidad Jocson, Sister Luciana Salao, Herminia
Castaeda Rivera
Front Row from Left: Teresita Tambunting Liboro, Sister Luciana Salao, Chloe
Cruz Periquet, Digna Agra Roxas
At the back from right: Belen Ang Casimiro, Aurea Evangelista Sarmenta, Mary
Luis Gancayco, Teresita Santos Reyes, Emma Camello Santiago, Teresita Locsin
Gana, Ma. Paz Eleizegui, Editha Valdomar Uson, Lourdes Lopa San Gabriel
Sitting: Chloe Cruz Periquet, Maria Luisa Montaner Lovero, Herminia Castaeda
Rivera, Erlinda Fabella De Carolis, Sister Lucina Salao, Nena Nable Headfort, Mila
Von Heiland Lane, Ma. Lourdes Estella, Digna Agra Roxas
Standing from right: Letty Afable Ybiernas, Emma Camello Santiago, Lourdes
Lopa San Gabriel, Teresita Santos Reyes, Remedios Olmedo Dy, Mary Luis
Gancayco, Belen Ang Casimiro, Murita Reyes Segui, Teresita Lizares Andaya,
Teresita Locsin Gana, Maria Del Carmen Ortiz, Elena Dizon Ocampo, Asuncion
Jalandoni Yaptangco
Sitting From Left: Nena Nable Headfort, Sister Luciana Salao, Chloe Cruz Periquet
2nd Row: Teresita Lizares Andaya, Elena Dizon Ocampo, Erlinda Fabella De Carolis, Maria
Luisa Montaner Lovero, Digna Agra Roxas, Mary Luis Gancayco, Belen Ang Casemiro
3rd Row: Teresita Locsin Gana, Letty Afable Ybiernas, Murita Reyes Segui, Herminia
Castaeda Rivera
4th Row: Emma Camello Santiago, Asuncion Jalandoni Yaptangco, Maria Del Carmen Ortiz,
Milagros Von Heiland Lane, Ma. Lourdes Estella,
Last: Lourdes Lopa San Gabriel, Teresita Santos Reyes, Remedios Olmedo Dy
THE RUBY YEARS
By Victoria Lopez HS 68
The celebration is over, the
camaraderie and the laughter, the
fun, the rehearsals and our one
moment in time, dancing to the
tune of Saturday Night Fever is
but a fond memory.
So, the Beat goes on not to the tune of John
Travoltas Saturday Night, but to our own unique Melody
and Lyrics: that of Living, Loving, Supporting and in
Constant celebration of our Lives Journey. We once
more carry on the torch of our deeply ingrained
Assumption Spirit, and our own
mottos of Resilience and Confdence
to live La Dolce Vida, LaVida Loca,
La Vida of the Rubilarians of 1968!
W
hat now for the Rublilarians? We are asked..
Well, we ponder, what now??
We had come together as if High School was just a
summer ago. We had picked up our most unforgettable
childhood friendship where we had left off.
This time, with an even greater sense of Warmth and
Belonging. To the very same Assumption girls who now
had evolved into women of great Courage, Resilience and
Confdence. Still, with a glint of fun in our eyes, hope in our
minds and love in our hearts.
Recalling
JADE AND
BEYOND.....
HS73
O
ur invented Jade Jubilee came and swiftly went by.
Thirty Five years ago, what now, we said, do we wait
till our Ruby to get together again?
We did not wait long; the opportunity arose. Two
classmates, Marisa Alfonso and Marisa Oreta, stricken with
stage four cancers needed prayers and moral support. In
no time a plan was hatched and a healing mass and a meal
with the nuns was organized.
Our venue for the healing mass was so ftting, a very
intimate place of prayer. It was held in the St. Marie
Eugenie Chapel. Everything seemed to just fall into place.
It was touching, classmates came, attended mass and
many stayed on for a simple agape with the nuns.
For many of these girls it was a real treat to be able to
dine with our nuns in the cloisters. Many could not imagine
in their wildest dreams that we were now on what we long
ago thought was hallowed grounds. It felt good to with
our mothers who took care of us then and it was heart
warming to know that they appreciated our company and
the meal that we prepared for them.
We started out to pray for healing. This evening was a
testimony that healing comes in many forms. There was
plenty of hope and love showered on the two Marisas and
enough to go around for all of us.
High School Class 1973, we are so blessed.
PEARL GIRLS:
PROUD TO BE ANIMATED!
T
he pearl girls of HS 78 had the time of their lives
last Old Girls Day 2008. Gone was the pressure
and stress of raising funds, organizing the entire event,
and managing so many other details on top of our family
obligations and work responsibilities. We did all that in
2003 when we were the silver jubilarians; the task now fell
upon HS83 (who, incidentally, developed and delivered
a very successful celebration). Since a number of us had
sisters in HS 83, we tried our best to be the doting older
sisters by cooperating and giving them a performance
number they could be proud of.
At frst, we struggled with the theme cinema. Director
Freddie Santos frst suggested that we interpret a song
from the movie Lost Horizon to represent Asian-inspired
cinema. While the concept seemed elegant and exquisite,
it was a little too staid for our batch a bunch of women
who grew up to the tune of upbeat disco music and
accustomed to high-energy performances.
After some research, deliberation and our batch
president Chona Ganas follow up calls and e-mails, a
new concept evolved based on animated movies which
are childlike, colorful, spontaneous, happy and energetic
qualities that we thought represented us accurately. Little
by little it took shape and became more comprehensible
when Marla Teopaco picked out the snippets of songs
from various Disney and Pixar movies. We narrowed down
the music to the more danceable songs. Then Cynthia
Gatmaitan-Menchaca scouted for rehearsal venues and
charted our practice dates.
As we had expected, there was just a handful of us
during the frst few rehearsal days in September. But as
the velada approached, more classmates started to join
us. They were also encouraged by (or cajoled into) a non-
dancing portion in our presentation. This was planned to
accommodate those who can only join us at a later time
like our balikbayan classmates. All they had to do was to
march across the stage wearing awesome headdresses
representing some animated movie characters. This
portion was also kept a secret as we wanted to surprise the
audience on velada day.
On October 18 (dress rehearsals), the pearl girls were
huddled in one of the college classrooms next to the jade
girls (who were the pearls when we were silver). We had
developed a deep affection for HS 73 and cheered them
on wildly during their Mamma Mia medley as we ourselves
waited by the stage wings for our turn. And when it was
our turn, we danced our hearts out and just enjoyed our
moment together. And the animal head pieces did turn out
to be a show-stopper!
Dress rehearsal night was truly memorable for our class
because of one very, very
special person in the
audience who came
to watch us perform:
Mrs. Lulu Zafra, our
P.E. teacher in high
school. She not only
taught us how to dance
jazz, she also listened
patiently to our teenage
angst with her big, loving
heart. That evening, Mrs.
Zafra struggled to see
us, already confned to a
wheelchair as her illness
had advanced. She told
us that she wouldnt miss seeing her
girls because she loved us. Sadly, it
was to be her last visit to the school and
our very last time to enjoy her company.
Mrs. Zafra passed away the week
following the velada. Her last photograph
was with her girls, a framed copy placed
next to her casket.
So, it has been almost a
year since HS 78 invested in
some 40 odd hours learning the
choreography of an 8-minute
dance routine. The fantastic head
pieces fashioned so artistically
from ordinary foam wild animals,
chipmunks, jelly fsh, sharks and
other sea creatures have been
recycled by our children for their
Halloween costumes. We have
since seen each other on occasion lunches and dinners
to welcome former teachers like Mother Araceli (also
known as Sister Archie) and Vicky Clemente or long lost
classmates like Lala Taada.
As all Assumption girls know, the ties among us will
never be undone; the connections will forever be as tight
no matter what. We, the erstwhile disco generation, are
now wired by cell phones, e-mail, Facebook, Tweeter and
are very willing to adopt any other new technology that will
keep us together. Why? Because when we graduated in
1978, we all pledged: Fiat Voluntas Tua (Thy Will Be Done)!
And, quite obviously, part of that will is for us to remain the
best of friends forever.
We are, indeed, very proud to be HS 78. Watch out for
the jade girls in 2013!
By Marlou de Vera Tan HS 82
V
idal was named after a scholar and Mathematician from
the Tan family in the Philippines. The name was given
to him with a lot of hope and promise that he too would
be a great intellectual. At three years and a half years old,
Vidal was diagnosed with having Pervasive Developmental
Disorder (PDD). I asked the specialists if we were ruling out
Autism. I then proceeded to ask three questions which I
felt were important. Will Vidal be able to live independently?
Will he be able to hold a job? Will Vidal be capable of
taking care of himself? I still remember their exact words,
PDD falls under the spectrum of Autism. We dont have
a crystal ball. We cannot tell you for sure what he can and
cannot do. It really depends on the intervention and therapy
he receives. It also depends on how he develops as you
work with him. As they continued talking, I no longer heard
anything else they said. I got up,
went to the bathroom, closed the
door and began weeping. A part
of me died along with all I had
hoped for Vidal.
In my pain and confusion, I
knew in my heart that Vidal was
a blessing and a gift to us. I
gathered all the strength I had
and was determined to seek out
help for Vidal. This started my
journey as a mother of a boy with
Autism. I took Vidal to weekly speech and occupational
therapy sessions. I worked with Vidal daily, trying to fnd
a way to communicate with him. Vidal was verbal and
talked a lot, but he would just parrot out nursery rhymes
and stories. He did not really communicate with anyone.
His therapists and I worked together as a team to help
draw Vidal out of his shell.
I fnished graduate school a year after Vidal was
diagnosed with Autism. With a masters degree in
education, I continued to become more involved in Vidals
therapy. My second son, Gabby, also helped draw out
Vidal. He would persistently call on Vidal until he got his
attention (just like any two year old). It was in times like
these that I knew God was working His miracles through
other people.
Vidal fnished his elementary schooling in a regular private
school; however, there were very options for mainstreaming
in high school in the Philippines. I applied for a scholarship/
year-long internship in North Carolina, where I had previously
done specialized training. I prayed that God would give me
the opportunity to continue learning about Autism and, at the
same time, give Vidal a chance to be in high school. It was
a tough time. My marriage did not
work out and as a result I was a
single mom raising two boys.
In January 2002, I was granted
a partial scholarship for the year-
long internship. I took a leap of
faith and took my two boys to
Asheville, North Carolina and
setup house for a year. By that
time, Vidal was so much more
communicative. Vidal was able
to carry out short conversations
and purposefully communicate his needs. He was helping
out with household chores, doing the dishes, making his
bed, helping out with the laundry, etc. Vidal always did his
chores with a smile on his face, cheerfully going about what
needed to be done. He adjusted to his new routine quite
well. Vidal and Gabby would ride the school bus every day
to and from school. I had the option of requesting for a
special education bus for Vidal, but Gabby offered to take
LESSONS TO LEARN
Parenting
I still remember their
exact words, PDD falls
under the spectrum of
Autism. We dont have a
crystal ball. We cannot
tell you for sure what
he can and cannot do.
It really depends on the
intervention and therapy
he receives. It also depends
on how he develops as you
work with him.
on the responsibility of watching over his brother as they
both took the trip daily.
One afternoon, Vidal and I had a misunderstanding. I
asked Vidal if he wanted to walk to my offce after he got
cleaned up. It was a three-minute walk and Vidal was quite
comfortable walking to my offce all the time. I verbally
explained to him that he frst needed to clean up and then
he could walk to my work place. In my mind, I thought I
had clearly explained the whole procedure.
I left him in the house around 3:00 p.m. At around 4:40
pm, I realized Vidal wasnt in my offce yet, so I called home
and asked if he was still interested in coming to my offce.
He said that he was really tired and didnt feel like it. So I
told him that I would be home in a while. No problem. I got
home at 5:30 pm and talked to Vidal about his drawings.
He seemed to be okay but was a little quiet. After about
what seemed like 30 minutes, I saw Vidal crying. I asked
him what was wrong. He said, You left me here at home.
I saw a box of tissues on his desk, which was half gone.
I also saw his trash can overfowing with crumpled tissues,
and I thought to myself . . . he must have cried a whole
lot, all the while sitting at his desk, drawing his pictures. I
processed the situation with Vidal as I have always done
before. In an attempt to make him feel better, I told him
that I would take him out to dinner. Through his tears, Vidal
said, Its okay mama. Dont leave me again. And with
that, he dried his tears. In less than ten minutes, he was
the same happy Vidal.
I share this story for many reasons. In the years I have
tried so hard to teach him, Vidal has been the one teaching
me. This incident is
just a subtle reminder
to me of what
unconditional love
is. Vidal has taught
me how important it
is to trust the person
you love, even if they
seem to fail you. He
has taught me that
in spite of how bad
we feel about any
given situation, it
is important to just
keep going. Vidal
has also taught me
over and over not to
dwell on mistakes, sad thoughts, or situations that make us
feel regret. Focusing on things that make you sad will only
eventually make you feel worse. Ive learned it is always
better to write out instructions rather than verbally direct.
But most of all, Vidal has taught me that no matter what... it
is important to just GET OVER IT...
And then I think about the three questions I asked
the psychologist 17 years ago, Will Vidal be able to live
independently? Will he be able to hold a job? Will Vidal be
capable of taking care of himself?
Vidal graduated high school last June 2008 with an
occupational course of study high school diploma. He is
currently working at Outback Steakhouse as a dishwasher
and rolls silverware in cloth napkins. He is a hard worker
and takes pride in what he does each day. Vidals art work
has gained recognition in some organizations (Autism
Society of North Carolina Holiday Card contest: 2006 and
2008, First place Mountain State Fair 2008, Very Special
Arts Festival cover design 2008). He is a prolifc artist and
derives his inspiration from childrens books and shows.
Drawing is Vidals special gift.
We still have a long way to go, so much more to learn.
But the gains we have made over the years have made
me realize that anything is possible. It is a mixture of great
faith knowing that
God will take care
of your every need
and will give you
the perseverance
and strength to get
up each day and
consistently . . .
patiently . . . daily . . .
face the tasks before
you.
In many ways,
Vidal has become
my life and my focus.
Not only have I built a
career around Autism
but it has been my
quest to continually
fnd ways to make the lives of these individuals more
pleasant, happier, and more fulflling. Today I realized that
Vidal has probably got it all fgured out, better than I ever
will. He has learned many lessons and has put them into
practice . . . something I have still to learn.
*Marlou, Vidal and Gabby live in Asheville, North Carolina.
Gabby will be a freshman at University of North Carolina
Chapel Hill in the fall 2009. Marlou is the program director for
a mainstreaming program for students with high functioning
Autism at Veritas Christian Academy (Fletcher, NC).
Parenting
THE TWAIN MEET
By Barni Alunan-Escaler HS 90
W
e live in a country of opposites. Dead
rivers snake in tributaries towards
pristine beach waters. Living trees survive
along polluted highways. Roomy sports cars
fash by packed out public transport.
And then, there is the most obvious contrast
of all: the slum-dwelling poor who live a spits
throw away from the palatially-ensconced rich.
Despite proximity, the divide is so astronomical
that rarely do the twain meet outside the
context of political propaganda.
But one scorching Sunday in March, after
a furry of emails and web posts, the High
School Class of 1990 leave their homes with
kids in tow for the riverside of Caloocan.
Here, a small group of French nuns and
volunteers are engaged in missionary work,
caring for a community of families and
educating their children.
The idea a photobooth shoot proposed by
Michelle Cunningham, aka Love Love Aenlle
(who knew the pixie beauty would transform
into an edgy kick-ass photographer?).
The models the children of Caloocan
and ours, decked out in costume and
hamming it up in the spirit of friendship
without borders. The reason to kick off
the unwieldy task of raising funds for our
25 years-out-of-high-school homecoming,
the lions share of which would go to
Assumptions Mission schools.
As we make the hour-long trek in our
spacious tour bus (thank you, Kat Valdez-
Cruz!), its already a mini-reunion. There is
much giggling and catching up, but also
a bit of tension as the moms among us
wonder how our kids will react
and behave.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
When we arrive, the children
stumble out of the bus and squint
at their surroundings, much like
people might after emerging from a
darkened theater where a fantasy flm
was just screened, returning slowly to
reality. Except for our children, this isnt
a return to reality. Its an introduction.
One classmates little girl whispers, Mom,
its the opposite of Boracay. There isnt a hint
of brattiness in her tone. Just the innocence
of a child stating an observation or rather, a
glaring truth that she has come face-to-face
with for the frst time in her young life: This
unpaved ground, beneath the bridge over
this blackened and putrid river, is home to
hundreds of people, most of them children.
Babette Bartolome-Toral, mom to three
boys, shares, Going to Caloocan was an
experience I really wanted them to see, feel,
and smell even! They often ask where street
kids live, where their moms and dads are,
endless questions only curious kids can ask.
Coming here was a good way to answer some
of these questions.
We are met by Sr. Anne Roquet, who tells
us the kids are getting ready. While waiting,
we smile at the sign that says, WELCOME
TO OUR HOME and admire the elaborately
decorated friendship train, clearly a project
assembled just for this occasion.
When the children of the community fnally
arrive, Sr. Anne introduces us with the most
endearing French-accented Tagalog. They
come to sit with our children on mats laid
out on the pot-holed ground. The children
stare openly in silent fascination of one
another. Luckily, we come prepared with
ice-breakers.
THINNING THE LINE
We start with a few popular childrens
songs translated into Tagalog. The
Caloocan kids are shockingly easy studies,
even though many cant decipher the song
sheets we provide. Valerie Baclagon-Dragon
leads them in song, and they know it in a
single take. They sing their hearts out and
melt our own.
The drawing exercise turns out
rather interesting. Nikka Salta-Santos
passes out sheets of paper and tons
of crayons, instructing the kids to draw
something they want to remember about
that day for safekeeping inside the friendship
train. Naturally, our boys take this to mean
they have carte blanche to draw dinosaurs
and jets. One of them announces, I want
to draw explosions!, and we laugh at this
candid faux pas. We move over to kids from
the community and fnd the incongruous sight
of an ear-studded tough guy, named Jethro,
busily sketching a happy person. His friends
are similarly drawing happy families in front of
houses and other things that look like poignant
visualizations of their hopes and dreams.
Behind the photo booth, the Caloocan
kids rummage through the pile of props and
articles for dress up. They take turns posing
excitedly with our more reserved children. In
Love Loves words: From the other side of the
camera all I saw were big smiles. It took a little
time for things to get started, but once the ball
got rolling, there was no stopping it.
And there was certai nl y no stoppi ng
the frenzy of acti vi ty of our cl assmates
and chi l dren.
There was Nikka with an energy and
diligence that would have foored her former
math teachers (what with two small children
and having just fnished a 5km run), being
mobbed by outstretched hands for the boxes
of crayons she carried; Candy Reyes, our
professional stylist, hiding from the heat in her
improvised turban while draping the children in
slinky boas and outftting their heads with her
hat collection; Karen Adriano-Boccone, the
crafty mom, unfurling a pleated row of paper
dolls for the kids to write their names on; Sylvia
Lorenzo-Stolk, commanding orderliness with
her booming voice as she raffed off giveaways;
and our children, distributing loot bags they
took time to put together before the trip.
Behind the scenes, there was Sunny
Fragante shepherding us and our children from
Manila to Caloocan and back; Nixie Montoya-
Yap and Miri Abello making sure everyone was
happily fed. There were donations from friends
who were present in spirit, like Ana Javelosa-
Gloria and Angel Escalona- Ignacio both of
them heavily pregnant at that time. And, of
course, always there was Love Love with her
masterful eye, tirelessly clicking away at all the
sights we hope to see in an exhibit very soon.
Meanwhile, the community kids are
humming new songs and holding books and
crayons like they won the lottery. Our kids walk
away with a healthy dose of reality and many
questions in their heads.
Amidst all this, Sr. Carla beams with pride
in a way that seems yet undeserved. She is
pleased and full of praise, Look at you girls! All
our efforts have paid off, and youre teaching
your kids by example! One can only hope
shes right.
A SEED IS PLANTED
In the lull before leaving Caloocan, some
of us notice two boys, far apart, kicking up
rocks and dirt, treading carefully along the
embankment as they stretch their arms and
imaginations both of them just being kids, in
the truest possible way. In this moment, no
divisions are visible to a casual observer.
There is a happinessand heaviness
at the sight of this, because there is a
confuence of minds but not of situations.
One of them will go home to a warm bed
and the security of parents who can provide.
The other will lay his head down on the hard
ground to sleep among adults who can only
emotionally shrug at life.
The events of the day bring to mind the
many similar exposures and immersion
programs we experienced 20 years ago
in Assumption. But there is something
signifcantly different about this particular visit
to Caloocan, because we experience it with
our children.
With them, we see again the generational
and historical persistence of both what is so
right and so wrong in this world of opposites
how two children can have identical hopes
and dreams but unequal opportunities.
With them, we witness how the canyon that
separates us from the people right in front
ussleeping by our roadsides, sweeping
our foors, and rapping on our window in the
rainhasnt narrowed an inch.
But exposing our children may be a small
glimmer of a start a way of beginning
especially if people like us dont do this only
every 20 years.
Gathering
ASSUMPTION ALUMNAE
QUARTERLY LUNCHES
I
t was a rainy Thursday, the 16th of July, 2009. Assumption graduates
from different batches came trickling into the home of Mrs. Tereret
Tambunting Liboro, who graciously opened her lovely home as the
venue of the 1st Assumption Alumnae Quarterly lunch. So elegantly
dressed, the home had tables flled to the 2nd foor balcony. A simple
buffet lunch was served as soon as one registered. Despite the
sudden pour of rain, several batches braved the weather and proudly
represented their classes. Thanks to the very hardworking class
representatives who used their charms and convinced their classmates
to come along.
The Quarterly lunch is a new activity initiated by the
present Assumption Alumnae Board headed
by Millette Tanada-Ocampo, Alumnae
President. Its main purpose is to have an
alumnae base which would regularly meet
to help make the association more vibrant
and relevant to the times, as our very own St.
Marie Eugenie was. Assumption girls are multi
talented and extremely energetic spirit-flled
and responsive. which is shown especially by
the celebrating batches at the annual Velada on
Old Girls Day. But that spirit should be expanded
and explored further and should not be focused
on the Velada alone, says Millette Ocampo, in her
opening remarks.
The Lunch had a very structured format. Sr. Ana Maria, did the
Invocation, representing Sr. Maria Josefna Matias, Provincial Superior of
the Religious of the Assumption Philippine-Thailand Province, followed
by Sr. Gertrude Borres, President of The Assumption College who gave
the Welcome remarks. A short dance number by Ballet Philippines
graced the affair. Assumption updates were given by the Provincial Lay
Representative, Baby Goyena Herrera, (HS 76), on the visit in January
2010 of our Mother General, Sr. Diane Wauters and the Lay-Religious
By Mary Rose Damaso HS 78
Congress that would coincide with her visit. Sonjie Trillana (HS 64)
Director of AEDEV (Assumption Educational Development) gave a very
informative report on the structure that takes care of the distribution of
funds and assistance needed for the Assumption mission schools the
alumnae supports.
The highlight of the afternoon was the invitation of a notable guest
speaker, .in the person of Olivia Aguinaldo. Ferry (HS 56). A very
accomplished lady, she was the second and longest serving CEO and
Managing Director of the IMS Health Philippines operation,
a company she built and nurtured for 32 years. She was
also the 48th International President of Zonta and the frst
Asian to occupy that position. She spoke very eloquently
about her days as a student in the Assumption, her
college years, her career, and how the values she
learned in the Assumption carried her through her very
competitive, colorful and service oriented life. Her talk
revealed that amidst all her accomplishments, she is
basically the daughter of St. Marie Eugenie, whose
purpose in life is to make the earth a place of Glory
for God.
The afternoon ended with about 130 people
feeling proud to be Assumptionists. Indeed these
lunches will be an occasion to pay it forward, a place where
potentials can be harnessed, a place for fellowship, friendship, kinship
and linkages; a place for giving back, for renewal, and even refection.
The name Quarterly Lunch is rather apt. In terms of life, some are in
the 2nd quarter of their lives; others in their 3rd quarter and still some
are wondering if they will make it to the 4th quarter. Attending these
lunches can probably make our journey more delightful and meaningful.
The young batches have all the time and energy but given the speed
of time for those above ffty and sixty and more so for those entering
their seventies, it is a good idea to meet quarterly and pause to see the
beauty in the quarters of our lives.
ASSUMPTION ALUMNAE QUARTERLY LUNCHES
1st Lunch 16 July 09 Tereret Tambuntings Home
Guest: Olivia Ferry
2nd Lunch 15 Sept. 09 Dasmarinas Village Club House
Guest: Gina Lopez Kapit Bisig Pasig
3rd Lunch 2 Feb. 10 Assumption San Lorenzo
Guest: Sr. Diana Wauters, r.a., Mother Provincial
* Authors note: For details of the succeeding Quarterly Lunches, please call the Assumption Alumnae Office at 894-3561 or 894-3580 for reservations.
Remembering
TRIBUTE TO
CORA ATAYDE
C
ora, was every bit what her name meant, Corazon. She grew
up to be a good daughter, sister, wife, mother and friend.
She went to school in Assumption where she stayed on forever.
Forever because after graduating she seemed to always fnd herself
back in its embrace.
She graduates, shes given a very special award by Mother
Esperanza, gets a job, then gets married a few years after. Such
love for Assumption that even her wedding day was the feast of
Our Lady of the Assumption, August 15. Newly wed she and her
husband served as AMA volunteers in Assumption Japan.
She had four children, two boys & two girls. Her two daughters
naturally are Assumption girls. She was president of the Family
council in Assumption Antipolo and was involved with various
Assumption activities and apostolates. Cora moved on to even
become president of the AAA. Today the AAA enjoys the many
fruits instituted during her term.
We all served in the board together with Cora when she came
back as vice president in 1997. Unbeknownst to Cora, she showed
us in more ways than one how to be daughters of St. Marie
Eugenie. Cora was a woman of faith, devoted wife and mother,
loyal friend, generous benefactress even ministering to the sick
and the dying. Her passion aside from food was the World Wide
Marriage Encounter were Ditoy, her husband, and she had been
actively involved for almost 30years.
When our terms as trustees ended, we continued to socialize
and became groupies, the OUTBOARD as we call ourselves today.
There were eleven of us, just getting together for lunches and
birthdays in the beginning, but then Cora asked us to band together
to do more. We started an out reach program to help this priest
she knew, Fr. Boyet, who worked with the aged, the dying and
street children. And yet there was always room for any Assumption
project as far as Cora was concerned. The canonization of St.
Marie Eugenie was really a highlight in her life. After all the miracle
baby, Riza was one of Coras biggest apostolates together with
Nanette Olivares.
On hind sight, Cora made us realize she was prepared to meet
her creator. She has joined Sr. Carol our AAA moderator then and
Tita Corito Kalaw. Much has been said in eulogies to extol Cora and
many more for a long time to come. She was not a saint, but she
was a true daughter of the Assumption.
We love you Cora, we will miss you.
Asun Zubiri, Betchay Monserrat, Liane Bautista, Mariane
Pratte, Marivic Silva, Nanette Olivares, Tess Lopez, Vicky Cruz
and Marily Ledesma
THE FOLLOWI NG ARE THE
DEPARTED ALUMNAE FROM LATE
OCTOBER 2008 TO JULY 30 2009
1. El sa Al unan Pobl ador HS 34
2. Ruby Ri ver a HS 77
3. Lol i t a de l a Rama Lopez
4. El i sa Ugar t e de Rot aeche
5. Pi l ar Si er r a Or oba - HS 72
6. Joj i e Fel i x Vel ar de -
7. Mar i a Lui sa Angar a l a O HS 72
8. Mar i a Car men Est aci o HS 86
9. Angel a Ant oni o HS 98
10. Ai da Abel l a Fel i pe HS 42
11. Bet t y Daza Or endai n HS 41
12. El sa Tor r es Buyson HS 38
13. Fe Abad Goyena HS 47
14. Esper anza Leyson HS 53
15. Gl adys Cel est e HS 53
16. Ol ga Syyap Rodr i go HS 57
17. Pamen Sanchez Hagedor n
18. I r ma Lopez
THE FOLLOWI NG ARE THE
DECEASED RELATI VES OF
ALUMNAE FROM LATE OCTOBER
2008 TO JULY 2009
1. Conr ado Banzon f at her of Li zet t e, Yvonne & Moni que
2. Eduar do del Cast i l l o f at her of Pi l ar
3. Oscar Domi ngo f at her of Chona, El l yn & Ti na
4. Ter esa Er f e mot her of Lour des
5. Renat o Fest i n br ot her of Dul ce Baybay
6. Beni t o Gana husband of Ter esi t a Locsi n
7. Ma. Lui sa Kr ut zner mot her of Lui sa Mat t i
8. Jose l a O f at her i n- l aw of Mi l et Echauz,
Mar i vi c Li mj ap, Ni cki Cu Unj i eng
9. Vi r gi e Locsi n husband of Fi l omena Gana
10. Rosar i o Mi ana mot her of Mai t el & Cher r y
11. Jose Mar i a Mut uc husband of I r ma Or t ol l
12. Ramon del Rosar i o, Jr. f at her i n- l aw of Mar i vi c Ri ver a
& gr andf at her of Ni kki , Denyse
13. Lour des Si l va mot her of Anni e & mot her- i n- l aw of
Mar i vi c Lopa
14. I ssi Chi gson daught er of Luci l a
15. Eduar do Tan br ot her of Jane & Consuel o
16. Rosendo Bondoc husband of Menchu Vi l l ar eal
and f at her of Ri na, Ri ca & Ri ssa
17. Rol ando Concepci on husband of Lour des Ar el l ano
& f at her of Regi na
18. Mar y Ej er ci t o mot her of Mar i t a & gr andmot her of
Ceci l l e, Car ol & Jacki e
19. Fr anci sco Fer r o f at her of Rose
20. Veni ci o Jal andoni husband of Regi na de Leon
21. Gi l Mal uyao f at her of Sr. Myr na , r. a.
22. Mi guel Manese son of Car men Lao & husband of
Cat her i na Avel i no
23. Jose Ol asol o husband of Tessi e Bayot
24. Jose Or osa f at her of Mar i ssa and Mar t ha
25. Al ber t o Pedr osa husband of Chi t Navar r o & br ot her of
Neni ng Manahan
26. Loui e Senn husband of Mar i l ou Ar anet a
27. Pedr o Ti oseco husband of Soni a Lopez &
br ot her of Pamsy ( pl ease check, Pamsy had ot her
si st er s f r om AC al so, Ul a or and 3
28. Car l os Val des f at her of Nena, Chona, Bi nky, Gi na,
Ter r y & Anna
29. Lul u Zaf r a bel oved t eacher of HS st udent s
30. Fr anci sca Al f onso mot her of Ana, I sa, & Eppi e i n
r emembr ance of her deat h anni ver sar y.
31. Rosar i o Bondoc mot her- i n- l aw of Menchu Bondoc &
I sabel Rodr i guez
32. Benj ami n Bor r omeo husband of Fl or a Vi l l acar l os &
f at her of Cami l l e
33. Cr i sant o Di az Guysayco - br ot her of Mar i chi Fr anci sco &
Penny Zosa & Ma. Lui sa
34. Ar seni o Di zon Fat her of Mar det & Ceci l l e, gr andf at her
of Tanya and Anna
35. Rene Gr ande husband of Gi l da Gomez & f at her of
Ti na, Tar a & Tr i xi e
36. Ant oni o Ledesma husband of Angel i t a Yap
37. Leopol do Pr i et o
38. Car uso Pr i et o husband of Rosemar i e Mi r anda
& f at her of Mar i el o, I nez , Pi l ar & Cr i st i na
39. Wi l l i e Teodor o husband of Jul i a Busuego
40. Mar t i n Ti ni o f at her of Ti na, Vi cky, Leni & Ceci l l e
41. Jose Vel ez husband of I r ene Di okno
42. Edgar do Yap f at her of Baba, Ot i nne, Chuck, Angel i ca,
Dada & Bang & br ot her of Angel i t a Yap Ledesma
43. Bi enveni do Vi l l af ani a f at her- i n- l aw of Cor y Vi l l af ani a,
gr andf at her of Mi chel l e
44. Boy Di zon husband of Rosal yn Papa & f at her of
Rhona Di zon
45. Ramon Edul l an - br ot her of Sr. Fi l omena, r. a. and
Sr. Tr i ni dad, r. a
46. Pl aci do Vi l l acar l os f at her of Tess Bar ba, br ot her of
Sr. I sabel , r. a.
47. Lydi a Qui azon Yap mot her of Angel i t a Ledesma
LIST OF DEPARTED ALUMNAE AND
RELATIVES OF ALUMNAE
53 Assumpta OCTOBER 2009
Responding
TYPHOON ONDOY AND ASSUMPTION
OPERATION TULONG
By Sr. Regivic Yulo
T
he unprecedented deluge all over Metro
Manila turned cities into an ocean in less
than 6 hours of heavy rainfall. Mary Francis
texted that the Nova moved to the 3rd foor
as the water already destroyed the gate and
got into the frst foor. Our Antipolo sisters
were stranded in Cainta, stayed overnight in
Burger King and reached Antipolo only this
afternoon! They started relief operations right
away. Fe, Junalyn, Diane (Filipino postulant) &
2 caregivers gave all their physical and moral
support to the Nova. The sight was painfully
devastating. I went to Malibay together with
Trinidad, Roshni, and the 2 Vietnamese
postulants. We were able to deliver emergency
goods to around 300 families on the frst day
thanks to the alumnae who started a food
and water brigade immediately. Everywhere,
people were cleaning up muddy houses, so
were we in our compound. Anyones heart
will break at the sight of the damage in the
school: books, computers, etc. foating in
mud. Our sister Silvia couldnt stop crying as
more things went to the dump truck because
we can no longer restore them. There was
no water, no telephone line, no electricity, but
no complaints. All worked in joy even with
background music from transistor radios. But
the good news is our children and their families
are alive and they have the will and the hope
to recover soon. I know God is here and will
see them through because there are people
who care. From chaos to blessing is what I call
this day. Shared experience of material loss, of
mutual care and help, of lightheartedness run
through everywhere.
Assumption San Lorenzo was a sea of
solidarity. Hundreds of families came to bring
goods, lend vehicles to assure that these
goods reach as many as possible in Malibay.
All gave themselves in great generosity to
assure that packages were enough for the
days needs. By early afternoon, we had more
than expected so that we are able to share
with Antipolo and San Simon who are also
ministering to their neighboring villages. This
evening the Ayala-Zobels brought kitchen
packages (gas stove and utensils) that will be
given to the 500 most hit-families of Malibay.
Really, I can say Ive seen a glimpse of the
Kingdom today! Pinky Valdes presided the
whole operation: students, parents, alumnae,
friends, personnel and sisters who worked in
a very organized and joyful manner. The same
atmosphere reigned in Malibay the whole day.
I realized that indeed AC is school of life.
The Assumption family responded to the call
of service because like Jesus we want to save
and give life. I met a very young child who told
me how happy she is to work like a cow for
those who lost so much.
With more donations, we were able reach
out beyond sister-communities. Chiqui Violago
and Sr. Sheryl ventured to visit evacuation
areas in Pasig, one of the
worst-hit areas of MManila.
The site gripped their hearts
and Chiqui is now back in
Pasig to bring a small truck-
load of bottled water. Rescue
help has not yet reached
some areas of Pasig and
people havent eaten for more
than 48 hours.
Sisters Roshni and Junalyn
in Sonjie Trillanas vehicle
were able to visit San Simon.
Along the highway to San
Simon, the image was like
a sea. There will be no
rice harvest in many parts.
Tomorrow the high school
students & faculty will visit
worst-hit areas of Arayat and share the 350
food packages our Sisters brought.
In Malibay our Assumptionist fathers &
brothers came to help us minister to 926
families who came for their food packages.
Luli A.Bernas (1st daughter) sent Malacanang
kitchen staff to serve a hefty afternoon
merienda for these families. Sr. Fe brought
a group of Ambassadors wives to our
LSA sisters who were overwhelmed by the
outpouring of help. The Ambassador of Chile
sent us a sack of rice for them, too.
We received e-letters and calls from many
friends & alumnae outside Manila abound.
We are very touched with the great sense of
solidarity. Some old girls in other parts of
MetroManila & neighboring provinces tell me
about their touching experiences as they help
through their parish-based organizations or
with local government units and television
stations. Ive not heard yet of anyone who is
not doing something for others.
There are staff members of San Lorenzo
who have been badly hit by Ondoy. It is
only today that they start attending to their
own needs after 3 days of generous service.
Medical missions were there to attend to
secondary needs in Malibay. At the same
time the Alumnae Association is organizing
for the rehabilitation phase that will come
soon. Sisters Fe & Ana Maria, Pinky Valdes
and Millette Ocampo spoke with each other
to delineate roles & tasks in the next stage of
rehabilitation. We are grateful for all those who
offered to help in terms of cash.
Meanwhile relief service continues in
Antipolo (helping Angono & nearby areas),
San Simon (helping Arayat) and San Lorenzo.
Today the overfowing numbers of volunteers
& donors continue in San Lorenzo. A house
helper brought her own piggy bank coins
worth 1,000 pesos! We were able to deliver
the 500 family sacks (kitchen ware, mats,
blankets, pillows, etc.) for the 500 worst hit
families of Malibay. Chiqui Violago was able
to borrow 2 army trucks to help her & some
Sisters bring goods to critical areas of Marikina
& Pasig. Neil & other College staff were able
to reach San Mateo, Rizal. These areas have
not been reached by any group as they had
to take rubber boats & wade through muddy
waters still reaching the thighs. Many said,
Thank you! It has been 3
days that we have not taken
rice. We can take hunger,
but our children cannot take
it anymore. In Marikina
& Pasig, the goods were
delivered house to house
by Sr. M.Ignatius and High
School teachers. Families
were so grateful that they have
food for 2 days now without
lining up in distribution centers
for hours and end up not
having anything left.
These things make me
imagine how much God
labors to give us life. We feel
privileged to labor with God.
We fnished immediate relief
operations in Malibay (San Juan Nepomuceno
School) In October 1 serving 1, 278 families.
The Sisters and lay staff started with the
Gospel of the day: and they went out 2
by 2 so did they, visiting homes as far as
they could go, coming home at the end of the
day to rest & be still before Jesus in Adoration.
There must have been many things that took
place in deep silent prayer. The days to come
will have many stories to share. I think we
need time to refect on these true stories and
hear what God wants to tell. All we know is
that God is with us.
Assisting
ASSUMPTION ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION
2009 Board of Trustees
Ma. Milagros Taada Ocampo HS56, COL60
Ma. Regina Gabaldon Hechanova HS77, COL81
Anna Recto Legaspi HS82
Ma. Avelina Yaptinchay Ignacio HS79
Ma. Rosario de los Santos Damaso HS78
Ma. Inez Alvarez Polotan HS72, COL76
Ana Alfonso Casas HS55, COL59
Ma. Isabel Sandoval Esguerra HS74
Ma Teresa Jacinto Loinaz HS58, COL63
Lirio Ongpin Mapa HS56, COL60
Maristella Marina Miana HS84
Carmen LB Valdes, PhD HS60
Consuelo Gomez Valdes HS64
Ma. Lourdes Ampil Vistan HS65
Ma. Lourdes Goyena Herrera HS76, COL81
Sr. Luz Emmanuel Soriano, r.a. HS52, COL56
Atty. Angela Ylagan HS83
President
Vice-President
Special Projects & Class Reps Committees
Board Secretary
Class Reps Committee
Asst. Board Secretary
Jubilarian & Class Reps
Board Treasurer
Budget & Finance
Asst. Board Treasurer
Budget & Finance
Class Rep &
Faith & Spirituality
PR & Communications
Class Reps & Jubilarians
Chapters Committee
Jubilarian & Class Reps

PR & Communications
Special Projects
Ex-Offcio
Chapters Committee
Moderator
Legal Adviser
AAA STAFF
Alice G. Tioseco Admin. Offcer
Everly Aquino and Maggie de Guzman Secretaries
Glaiza Pilapil Accountant
Bertram Ceniza Messenger/Utilities

Landline: 894-3561 894-3580
Mobile: Alice: (917) 886-8695
Everly or Maggie: (917) 800-0931
email: [email protected]
website: www.assumption.edu.ph
Left to Right: Bert Ceniza, Everly Aquino, Alice Tioseco, Maggie de Guzman and Glaiza Pilapil
OCTOBER 2009 59
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