Pax et Bonum sa Amerika Newsletter Volume 1 Issue 1

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A PUBLICATI O N O F LSQ C A LUMNI , FAC ULT Y, AND A DMI NI S TRATI O N BA SED IN TH E USA FEBRUARY 11,

2016

“PAX ET BONUM SA AME RIKA” IN THIS ISSUE

OCTOBER 24, 2015 COVERAGE

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IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM FATHER RECTOR

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BATCHES HOLD REGULAR REUNIONS

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FORMER ALUMNI FACULTY AND ADMIN KEEP IN TOUCH

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BATCHES HOLD REGULAR REUNIONS

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SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST:  LSQC GRAND ALUMNI HOMECOMING ON FEBRUARY 27, 2016  ALUMNI AND FORMER FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATION MAINTAIN STRONG TIES IN THE USA  ALUMNI AND FORMER FACULTY AND ADMIN SHARE ONE VISION WITH FATHER RECTOR

The “Pax Et Bounum sa Amerika” banners were raised as guests walked in at 3:45 pm on Oct. 24, 2015 at the Crab Boil Avenue Restaurant in Glendale.

Everyone casually mingled over a bottle of beer, or water. Special guest from the Philippines, Rev. Fr. Alberto Poblete, LSQC Rector is seen shaking hands-connecting with his new Lourdesian flock in the USA. A few minutes later he is joined by Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim (‘80). There is joy, laughter and great spirits as former teachers and alumni reminisced and took “selfies”.

In the middle of all these, Justin Lee Melchor of class

79 is seen handing Rev. Fr. Albert a wrapped gift.

Later he scouted around for teachers and gave each a bottle of wine. As if he was saying, “Like wine, we are fine and better in time”. Lee thanked his teachers, probably for all the school years of

putting up with him. And as I “sip” the wine, I whisper to myself “Ang galling ni Lee, hanggang Amerika….sip-sip pa rin”. But in all seriousness, it was a wonderful gesture! Lee exclaimed, gifts came from the alumni. (continued on page 2)

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“PAX ET BONUM SA AMERIKA” (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) The program started around 4:20 pm. Sonny Madera, former Elementary Teacher, emceed the affair and nicely put everyone at ease. Sonny was calm yet entertaining as he threw funny swipes at everyone he could see. I dodged a few, but later he managed to get me as well. He and all teachers were one in cherishing moments like these. He introduced and invited all former teachers to go up stage to say inspiring

words and to bring everyone a few years down memory lane.

Brenda Tuanqui, (known as Mrs. Castillo then) was an Elementary Teacher from 1968-75. Sonny complimented her former colleague and friend who remained as nice and lovely as ever.

Brenda expressed how happy and proud she is to see her former students. She brought with her old photos of the various classed

she stood as Class Adviser. It is interesting that at the back of each photo, were her students’ signed (young) autograph. It was nice to see how personal, proud and touched she was to have served as a teacher and mentor to many. In one of the class photos, it had a familiar face, Leo Herrera-Lim’s. The young Leo looked engrossed in thought, as if wondering “what will be-

come of him.” Who would guess that a few years down the road he would turn out to be a find man…a Consul General of California, at that.

The moral is, you will just never know how some of these young “bastards” will turn out to be. So teachers while you have them in your fold nurture, better yet, kick their butts….all for the love of a good education.

To Leo’s former teachers …it seems like you did a fairly decent job. (continued on page 6)

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FROM THE DESK OF FATHER RECTOR Let me recall my few days at LSQC in July, 2014 when my superiors put me in the school as the new rector. Some alumni came one by one or some time by groups to have a courtesy call.

I remember George Escarraga of batch '82 who expressed his early support for the new administration. he also advised me to get in touch with Mr. "Panyong" Paras as soon as possible to get the support of other alumni from the 60's up to 80's. then, came a special event leading to the launching of the 60th anniversary of LSQC on Aug. 29. it was there that I met Mr. Paras for the first time along with some select alumni and other former teachers and administrators of the school. it was a very warm encounter. I remember Mr. Paras whispering to me while we shook hands, "As the children are the crowning glory of the parents so are the alumni for the school!" it was a wise saying and i believed him. on that note, i gratefully welcomed the alumni

along with other guests especially former teachers and administrators who were scheduled to be interviewed for the planned coffee table book (which however did not materialize, instead, it was reduced to a memorabilia book which is still to be printed as of this time).

This is my main message. You, our dear alumni, are very important to the school.

You are really our children. LSQC is your mother, that's why you call her 'alma mater', while your own biological mothers gave you physical bodies, it is Lourdes School Quezon City who gave you the initial integral formation that shaped your spirit and your whole person to be who you are now. And I'm glad to have met some you in my short stay here at LSQC. For me you represent the finest products of the school. For this reason, i would like to thank also our former teacher, administrators and employees who, in one way or the other,

have helped you to imbibe the Lourdesian traits of being humble, simple, fraternal, excellent builders of communities and instruments of peace and love where ever you go. i do hope that this newsletter will help us keep the fire of brotherhood ever burning more brightly and translate its flame into more concrete works of love for our alma mater as well as for our other brothers and sisters in need, that way, we truly become instruments of God's peace in our time as our seraphic father, St. Francis of Assisi, was in his time. May God bless us all!

i do hope that this newsletter will help us keep the fire of brotherhood ever burning more brightly and translate its flame into more concrete works of love for our

A blessed feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes!

FATHER ALBERT FRANCIS POBLETE, OFM Cap. We thank all of you for making this newsletter a reality. We also thank the following for their special assistance: Derik Araneta (Batch ’91), Cecilia Ontiveros, James Francis Mabanag (Batch 91), Cora Fajardo-Kelley, and Bella Galdones-Uy for the additional material we included in this issue.

alma mater as well as for our other brothers and sisters in need ‌.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Greetings to all, This is the very first issue of Pax et Bonum sa Amerika. and so it is my most sincere hope that this will serve as the main vehicle of communication between the LSQC alumni, former faculty and administration, and friends based in the USA with the school back home headed by Father Rector, Albert Poblete, OFM CAP. Hand in hand, we can achieve a lot so that our alma mater can realize its goals and objectives for the betterment of

the student body. In turn, the various organizations serving LSQC can readily be assisted by us here in the USA with anything.

We become a part of the LSQC dream and bring the role of the alumni and former faculty and friends to greater heights. After all, we all share a vision of service to the LSQC community.

The Alumni in the USA, to mention, is very willing to assist the class of 92 in organizing the homecoming.

Whenever the school faces certain challenges, we, in the USA, place our hand on their shoulder and say, “let’s work on this together and let us move forward for our alma mater and the student body.”

Many have expressed their strong belief that this medium is very important. In turn, I ask all of you out there to please, please, please help us keep this newsletter going.

“Let’s work on this together and let us move forward for our alma mater and

LEO V. NEVADA Batch ‘80

the student body.,”

Batch ‘80 buddies Leo Nevada and Consul General Leo HerreraLim reunite at a gala dance honoring Senator Grace Poe at the 2014 Philippine Independence celebration in Los Angeles and Carson. Seen here with ConGen’s wife, Fides, and a college colleague, Fides Nagpala. This moment is a milestone for the start of Pax et Bonum sa Amerika!

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THE GLENDALE MEETING OF PAX ET BONUM SA AMERIKA

L-R: BATCH ‘80’s Leo Nevada and ConGen Leo Herrera– Lim and BATCH 79’s Jay Ortega and Lee Melchor pause with Father Rector.

Leo Nevada and Philippine Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim of Batch ‘80 with former Faculty Cora FajardoKelley

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PAX ET BONUM SA AMERIKA (CONTINUED FROM PG.2) . “Pass your Papers!”

Cora Fajardo-Kelley, teacher 1978-85, was introduced as a smart and intelligent woman.

Like a math teacher, she was precise and calculating. Cora is one consistent supporter. If we do the math, it adds up to “zero” absences in gatherings. Cora did not miss gatherings like this. She would always find a way.

This time she invited two of her family members to drive and attend the event. She feels proud to see alumni making their marks in community.

We could hear Cora wishing to see work, accomplishments and contributions growing in exponential ways; so much for making a (decimal) point.

“Pencils up!’

Linda Gando, teacher 1970-2000 was another wonderful teacher who gamely “hula” danced her way to center stage. She and Ding, her husband, both reside in Hawaii.

They were visiting Los Angeles, and it was timely to attend. She feels so much joy and pride in seeing many of her former students.

After her brief remarks, she hula danced her way back to her warm seafood dinner. “It’s recess time!”

Aster Abada was hesitant to go up stage.

One can’t blame her, as how can you upstage a “hula” dance entrance. Though singing to the tune of “Tiny Bubbles” crossed her mind, she was concerned the audience might burst her bubbles. But after constant urging from the crowd, she finally stood up and introduced herself as a teacher with a brief stint at LSQC. Aster resides is Los Angeles and sometimes hangsout gamely with some of her former students she now considers her friends. “Quiet, no talking!”

Cecilia Ontiveros was a former teacher, former Assistant Princi-

pal and former Elementary Principal. One could guess she taught “Pilipino”, cause her “vocabs” were deep (or maybe I am being shallow.) Cecilia is visiting from the Philippines.

She frequently visits the USA to see family.

This year’s visit to the USA is special, as her siblings from various parts of the world will have a big reunion.

Cecilia also introduced his Lourdesian brother, Cesar Jose of Class 1969 who joined her, along with other family members. “Raise your hand!”

Ben Buenviaje was probably the most experienced Lourdesian attendee of the affair.

Ben, who came with his wife, was School Registrar in 1957-1961.

Ben brought many back in time. He briefly recalled and pictured LSQC of a few decades, when the word “traffic” was not even defined in “Webster”, moreso in “Wikipedia”. (continued on page 7)

Ben Buenviaje was probably the most experienced Lourdesian attendee of the affair. Ben, who came with his wife, was School Registrar in 1957 -1961.

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PAX ET BONUM SA AMERIKA (CONTINUED FROM PG. 6)

During those times, the Rector’s or school administrators were headed mostly by Spaniards priest or the “Capuchin friars”. Ben expressed how warm it was to attend the gathering. He hopes to meet more Lourdesians in the future. “No buying outside!” Nilus Sacramento was also called in to speak. He was both an alumnus of 1959, who after college loved Lourdes so much he later worked as the Bookkeeper for 13 years. For a moment there, we thought Nilus was going to do a stand -up comic, like doing a late Senator Ramon Mitra speech given his prominent beard. And no, he is not running for public office. “Squat, Boys!”

Sonny listened intently and was moved with the sentimental speeches of his former colleagues…He felt it timely to share this story. A few years back, Sonny was in a predicament with literally no bed to sleep on or a place to

live in. Then an answered prayer; a former student, Tito Salvador ’82 timely showed up. Tito helped Sonny secure his condominium without a single penny place as a down payment. For that, Sonny is grateful. Too bad Tito got a “C” in Conduct when he was Sonny’s student in Grade 6. But no worries, cause for the evening Tito got an A, “A” for applause. It was a brotherly gesture, or “Kapatiran” (as Rev. Fr. Troy de los Santos referred in his “Let Us Blend …in the USA” address in July 2004) in action.

After the “Teachers’ Time”, Leo Nevada was called in to introduce alumnus guest in Los Angles Consul General Leo HerreraLim. Both belong to the class of 1980.

They were also classmates in the UP School of Economics.

Leo N. gave a glimpse of a long resume and

various stints of Consul General. He shared some funny stories. He touched on the Consuls intellect, wit and skillful ability to write and communicate; all the right tools to land a foreign service or consulate position.

Consulate General Leo Herrera-Lim appreciated the introduction and expressed his delight in being with his fellow Lourdesians.

He recalled tales of his elementary and high school years. He expressed how grateful he is with the positive impact the school had in him. He then took the opportunity to describe the tasks of the consulate beyond issuance of Philippine passports and notary services. The work is plenty but fulfilling as the consulate services many of our fellow kababayans in California, Nevada and other parts of the western states. Leo also touched on his personal life as he proudly introduced his wonderful wife, Fides; and made mention of the (continued on page 8)

...for the evening Tito got an A, “A” for applause. It was a brotherly gesture, or “Kapatiran” (as Rev. Fr. Troy de los Santos referred in his “Let Us Blend …in the USA” address in July 2004) in action.

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PAX ET BONUM SA AMERIKA (CONTINUED FROM PG. 7)

prominent family he married into. On a lighter side, he jokingly said when he first met Fides it was strategically to help advance his career (noting that Fides was somewhat related to a political “big wig” at the senate were they met). Little did he know that playing romance in politics can be more than dangerous---it can lead to marriage. While the Consul General did not seem to complain, this is just one side of the story. Yes, the late afternoon was all fun fare with sentimental moments. His main message was to educate, to recognize, and later to give back and share to the school that has made an impact in our lives.

Cecilia Ontiveros was once again called in, this time to do the honors in introducing the special guest of honor from the Philippines.

She read a long list of his educational attainment, skills, experiences, accomplishments

and contributions. She had all but nice and flattering words that the angels in the heavens almost sang “alleluia”. But seriously, there were strong words of admiration and praises for a down to earth simple Rector whose heart and mind is in the right places. Cecilia stressed that he is loved by many in his community, thus she proudly presented….

Rev. Fr. Alberto S. Poblete, OFM, Cap. Rev. Fr. Alberto S. Poblete, OFM, Cap visit came by plan or faith… as he was originally en route to attend an educational ACSD conference in San Diego from Oct. 30-Nov. 1, 2015. Aware of the opportunity, Celia Ontiveros suggested for the alumni CORE Group to connect with Fr. Poblete’s to see if arrangements could be made to meet the alumni here in the USA. The connection was made, and so the frantic change of the

alumni gathering that was initially set on a Halloween day afternoon of Oct. 31 to the new date of Oct. 24.

Were all these happenings, coincidental or providential?

Rev. Fr. Albert was humbled by the introduction. Noticeable dressed in a brown Capuchin habit, Fr. Albert was about to deliver his message when Consul General Leo timely in jest, yelled, “puwedeng mahiram for costume for Halloween Father?”

To which Rev. Fr. Albert wittingly replied, “But this is an original, so hindi puwede!”

Everyone laughed at the exchange. Fr. Albert expressed his amazement that he was right here in America, connecting with his Lourdesian family across many miles. Rev. Fr. Poblete’s message was honest and direct.

Though he updated and shared the many joys, achievements and accolades of the school, he delivered challenges and timely misfortunes that fell (continued on page 9)

Fr. Albert expressed his amazement that he was right here in America, connecting with his Lourdesian family across many miles.

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PAX ET BONUM SA AMERIKA (CONTINUED FROM PG. 8)

upon him. He did not minced words to say that his very young administration is faced with results of failed decisions, missed opportunities and debilitating industry or economic conditions. He cited falling enrollment numbers in the school.

He noted rising costs in the up-keep and repairs of the building, garages, etc… Fr. Albert came prepared with data and stats to support this unfortunate situation.

Everyone listened intently. There were concerned faces.

There were queries and reactions. Fr. Albert clarified and even at one point was apologetic when he heard some poor handling or treatment of past administration. But while he shared these challenges, he remained trusting that God will not forsake the mission. He recognized that help was coming, citing huge roles and great support from the Parent Teachers Council, the current LSQC Alumni officers and many very

kind-hearted and concerned alumni. He mentioned a few names, situations where alumni were personally donating and contributing funds for scholarships and other projects. He mentioned meeting former LSQC Alumni Adviser, Mr. Epifanio Paras in his home in Pampanga, together with former teachers and alumni leaders led

by George Escarraga and Migs Fernandez last month. (I was fortunate to be present at that time.) Mr. Paras was helpful in connecting him to many alumni. There were so much details to be noted but the bottom line remains, Lourdes School Quezon City is in a challenging and precarious situation.

The task is huge but Fr. Albert prays that some answers could also be found in this part of the world. He expressed his gratitude for all the graces, challenges and blessings. Towards the end of the affair this writer was asked to respond and to give a close. I started out highlighting that October is

the month of the school’s Patron Saint, Francis of Assisi, it felt timely then to reference a familiar song/prayer calling for one to be” instruments of peace”.

Recognizing there were many seeds and messages planted and shared, it is hoped that all are touched and respond to a greater cause. Three objectives set forth prior to the gathering were pointed out. Firstly, it was to spend time and to acknowledge teachers (John would constantly prod “Life is too short, Jay.” Secondly, it was to provide a forum for the Rector to connect and reach out to alumni in the USA. And thirdly, it was to reconnect and to build greater alumni representation and participation. The road to future gatherings and events will be paved by the outcome and support of the alumni in the USA. While contributing money is a great way to respond or to “Give Back”, it is but one. Time, talent, ideas are also valuable resources any one Lourdesian can pay (continued on page 12)

I started out highlighting that October is the month of the school’s patron saint, Francis of Assisi. It felt timely then to reference a familiar song/ prayer calling for one to be “instruments of peace”.

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WHAT ARE SOME OF THE FACULTY DOING NOW? Ten (10) former LSQC TEACHERS recently rode the Grandeur of the Seas for their most awaited Cruise to the Caribbean Islands for 10 days.. They braved the great Blizzard that hit the Eastern Coast on the last days of January..

The Cruise was delayed for a day, due to the great snow however, that didn't stop their eager spirit to get together once again. They came from different states to enjoy this very exciting trip they are about to experience. It was a very memorable, beautiful, funfilled experience for our dear Teachers who are now all Senior Citizens..

They are: Adie Flores, Bella Uy, Carolina Roc, Celestina Ontiveros, Eddie Roc, Eleanor Olona, Elizabeth Dizon, Florinda Arboleda, Marissa Barrera, and Sonny Madera. Indeed the LOURDESIAN spirit "Walang Iwanan", is always in their hearts until they parted ways once again on Feb. 3, 2016.

Courtesy of BELLA GALDONES-UY

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CLASS OF ‘82 WITH SONNY MADERA

Let me thank you all first for your hospitality and warm welcome last time when I met all of you at Glendale, California, and for the organizers who met me at the airport and arranged for my local transport. —Father Albert

Be involved!

PAX ET BONUM SA AMERIKA

Post Office Box 370211 Reseda, CA 91337-0211

L O U R D E S

S C H O O L

Q U E Z O N

C I T Y

PAX ET BONUM SA AMERIKA (CONTINUED FROM P. 9) forward to the school.

Lourdes School Quezon City is a small school when compared to other bigger schools like Ateneo, La Salle, San Beda, etc….but Lourdesians can proudly hold its own. Everyone is challenged, enjoined to be a catalyst, to respond and to be that instrument of charity, peace (pax) and good (bonum). Everyone was acknowledged including family and friends. …then all other alumni present were asked to join for

groups photos.

It is impossible to capture all the special moments, bits of wisdom and tsimis. Thus highlighting other alumni in attendance would be the next best thing, namely: Kookie Cayton, Anthony Sese, Jun Maritnez, Philip Peralejo, Giovi Zamora, and Tito Salvador were all from the class of 1982. Tito’s wife, Helen and Anthony’s wife, Honey, were gamely in attendance.

Francis Hizon, Alvin Undan, and John Sacramento are from the

class of 1989. This class was not big in numbers unlike the class of 1982 but their presence was definitely felt, with the energetic John Sacramento leading many fronts.

And more so, from the youngest to the most senior there were Richard Matiaga ’92, Conrad Peralejo ’85, Derick Santiago ’86, Mitzel Untalan ’88, Cesar Jose ’69 and Nilus Sacramento ’61 all lone representatives of their class. They may seem like lone wolves …but their cry will

hopefully be loudly heard as they are asked to extend representation to other Lourdesians…in the name of “Kapatiran” sa America.

(The organizing committee or the Core Group was led

by Ignacio “Jay” Ortega and John James Sacramento with members Tito, Kookie, Lee, Leo and Giovi. Lino Esguerra’78 was unable to attend the event but he was with us in Lourdesian sprit.

The group wishes to extend their gratitude to other friends that came to support, particularly Dana Sison and Ms. Lou Sabas for helping stage this memorable gathering.)

IGNACIO “Jay” ORTEGA Batch ‘79