A LITTLE FIGHTING LADY

"If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together...there is something you must always remember, you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we're apart...I'll always be with you."- From Winnie the Pooh

Blogged By Evelyne Dirige Resella : The above quote is from a loving honey bear & favorite Disney character named Winnie the Pooh. He's a famous fat and jolly good yellow bear wearing a red vest. His quote about life & friendship is something to reflect about in our leisurely age as we look back at our achievements while we walk down the golden road. We have all arrived and have done something..... great or small.

WELCOME BACK! FLORDELIZA ALCANTARA-REYES- PWU HS CLASS 1960

I have known Flor, since our freshman year in h.s. We remained friends till college at U.P. Many classmates went to U.P. but it was only Flor who remained connected to me. I saw Linda Chacon & Raquel Tadena while at U.P. but somehow, we drifted apart. I didn't encounter Cora, Sari & Lani. They probably took the left stairs while I took the right. Yoly Bello & Lydia Aunario were my classmates in U.P. Fine Arts, so I saw them a lot. Flor & I often met at the Arts & Science building where I took some general educations subjects. Sometimes we had lunches together. I did't know what happened after our second year in college. We just lost contact of each other. Like Sari, I tried to find Flor, before our 50th reunion in 2010. I asked the help of a friend who lives in New Jersey but failed to locate her. Somehow, I didn't stop thinking about her. I knew that she's somewhere here among us in the U.S.

With luck, Flor found our PWU blog and e-mailed Sari. She finally got out of her "lungga" as Sari called it. I e-mailed her right away, and she replied as fast as a jet. She told me to see her on the (YOU TUBE, FWN), 2007- 100 Most Influential Filipina in USA. WOW! I could hardly believed that one of our classmates got that kind of award. Flor was the quiet type back then. How she became like Hilary Clinton is a big puzzle to me. But I was hilariously happy to see her again. Welcome to our group-the wonderful & successful PWU h.s. class 1960. Yes, there's no class like ours. Hurray! I liked an e-mail from Tess (TOG). She said....We are also very proud of each and everyone of the PWU H.S 1960 whether there is or isn't a special mention - if only for the friendship , for the sharing and even if it is just for sincerely listening to one another - I'd say not all classes, past graduated, have this kind of connection. From our Canadian northern vantage point - our lips may be quiet but our hearts swell with pride for you all. FLOR AT PRESENT -MARCH 22,2011- LOS ANGELES While in the Philippines, I never developed my full potential because my parents over protected me. I was a cry baby in U.P. because I cried twice in the classroom. My classmates told me that our professors had crush on me. Our car driver or maid fetched me from school even as a professor at UE, PWU and Pamantasan. It was at Columbia University (New York) while finishing my second masters that allowed me to reach my maximum capability as I had to survive on my own. However, up to now, I usually keep quiet even during deliberations in government agencies but once I am provoked, I finished to the end. That's why the senators, assemblyman, councilors, mayors, etc. branded me as little fighting lady. I learned the hard way to fend for myself. Kaya itim o paru-paru(kastila) qwedaw sa akin lalo na sa loob ng prison pero mahal nila ako dahil I respected the inmates and was fair to them. I went through personal challenges and took PWU President De Guzman and Hillary Clinton as my role models.I never allowed the obstacles to be stumbling blocks but the motivation to break the glass ceiling in American mainstream.

I started my immigrant ministry in metropolitan New York 1994 and continued it here re-entitled Come Christian Outreach and Migrant Enculturation geared towards the minority specifically new Filipino migrant workers. I am also the Vice president of the United Methodist Women and lay speaker/preacher of the Casa Grande United Methodist Church. The world of politics is full of intrigues and deception; I just accepted the task in order to defend the immigrants. Otherwise I won't even get involved. They called me the little fighting lady when I served as the first Asian Trustee of the Jersey City Board of Education. I also run as councilor in 1989 and 2001 in Jersey City. I was a Commissioner of the Jersey City and County of Hudson involving 12 cities. I was also appointed by President Clinton as a member of the Clinton/Gore Asian American Governing Council based in Washington,D.C. Though politics runs in my blood as my uncle former Governor Robles of Quezon, Cousin constitutional delegate, grand father, council president, Siniloan, Laguna, I do not like it but then took the challenge in order to be that advocate for Filipinos and other immigrants in metropolitan New York area. Kaya nga umalis na sa world of politics in order to dedicate the last years of my life with my family,to God and my hobbies, i e. cooking, gardening & biking. Of course, to get in touch with all of you. Noon ang time ko ay para sa madlang tao...kaya ngayon I control my time. I am only close to the PWUAA1960 colleagues and my brothers and sisters in Christ.

EDUCATIONAL PROFILE AND ACHIEVEMENTS: PRE-LAW, UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES, MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION, PWU, M.A. BUSINESS, COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, NEW YORK, NY

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS:1.ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT, NJ DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS, 2002-2009 2.COMMISSIONER , JERSEY CITY / HUDSON COUNTY CULTURAL AFFAIRS 2004-2009 3.LISTED IN WHO'S WHO IN AMERICAN WOMEN, 1992 4.PHILIPPINE PRESIDENTIAL (CORY AQUINO) AWARDEE, 1991 5. JERSEY JOURNAL (NEWSPAPER) WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD,1985

PAST & PRESENT PROJECTS: Published book with US Library of Congress "Filipino Who's Who in the East Coast" *Books to be published soon: 1. Inside the Prison Walls 2. How A Minority, Professional Woman Survived The American Mainstream: A Guide Form Of Religious Perspective

AWARD NIGHT:Flor was awarded as one of 100 Most Influential Women in USA with husband, Ramon L.Reyes- President-Casa Grande Chess Club & Arizona Parents.

Mini Reunion at Rockwell Mall, Makati by Esther Lejano

Rockwell an upper end mall in Makati decorated with red balloons for Chinese New Year!!

Gerry Tiongson Osias, Patricia "Bong" Arroyo Staub, Esther Lejano and Celia Arreza Espiritu

"Over the course of an average lifetime you meet a lot of people. Some of them stick with you through thick and thin, some weave through your life and disappear forever. But every once and awhile someone comes along who earns a permanent spot in your heart." ...unknown

Wednesday, January 26, 2011 was a very happy and memorable day for me in the Philippines. I was to meet up with Celia Arreza Espiritu, Patricia "Bong" Arroyo Staub and Gerry Tiongson Osias. I was apprehensive at first because I haven't seen them for 51 years nor even remember talking to them in high school. I said to myself what topic could we possibly talk about.

When I arrived at Via Mare restaurant at Rockwell Mall, I peaked at the glass window and saw Celia and Bong alreay there. I braced myself and walked in to meet them and when they saw me, we hugged and kissed on the cheek. Celia let me sit between her and Bong. Instantly, we were talking and remembering our high school days. All my apprehensions were totally gone. And then, 10 minutes later Gerry came and joined the fun. We talked about almost everything from high school days, to family matters, career, jobs, our exs loves, other classmates, etc. etc. etc. Celia brought with her a scrap book that she compiled from freshman year to senior year. It's so antique that it's falling apart but so awesome looking at those yesteryear photos, even the colour is already brown.

We ordered lunch....really good Pilipino food....we shared some dishes because one order is more than enough for one person. We had ginatang halo-halo and puto bongbong for dessert....uhmmm yummy. Celia picked the tab kase as Gerry said "si Celia and pinakamayaman dito sa amin" kaya hindi na ako nakipagunahan sa kanila. We got carried away gabbing and having fun that we were told by the waiter it's time for the next shift. Before we parted, Bong gave me three books she wrote, namely: "The Science of Philippine Foods", "Additional Information on the Science of Philippine Foods" and "Cooking Filipino Food in Germany" which she co-wrote with Heinz, her poging husband.

Celia gave me a box filled with mamons from the most exclusive bakery...ay naku ito na ang pinakamasarap na mamon nakain ko. Gerry left first for she had to go back to work...Gerry thank you very much for taking time off from your busy schedule to join our mini-reunion. Celia, Bong and Gerry, it was great and wonderful seeing all of you....thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

PWU HS'60 TORONTO GOLDEN GIRLS by Tessie Ocampo Guerra

"There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship." ..... St. Thomas Aquinas

Members: Rory Agellon, Esther Lejano, Wilhelmina "PeeWee" Bella, Tessie Guerra, Naty Cristi and Teresita "Girlie" Rivera.


If there ever was a group that is like a brood of sisters this could be it. Each one of the members is unique in her own way - but united in enjoying each other's company and always ready with a big hearty laughter whenever there is a chance to meet.

We have this on-going ritual of celebrating our birthdays together throughout the year and I think it is appropriate to give an insight based on our birthday months.

Let us start:

Teresita "Girlie" Rivera - November 9 – SCORPIO

Her personality is as tall as she is (and we all know she is one of the tallest in our class). One of her admirable traits is her ability to understand a situation with a lot of maturity and kindness but can also be openly frank about it.

She is a Scorpio - so she is a femme fatale who likes good food and where to get them, knows all the good eateries around the city, dresses well (as she likes nice clothes too) and when she travels she prefers to go first class which by the way is what she does - in the travel agency where she works - they love her zest for everything dandy, tasty and classy.

Girlie has this quality about her sunny outgoing friendliness that makes people feel deeply welcome. I cannot imagine a group as ours, in these super golden years, without someone like her who gives you loyalty, trust and affection.


Wilhelmina "PeeWee" Bella - January 6 – Capricorn

There is nothing typical about this friend. She can be a studious female wearing granny glasses, or she can be a dancer who wears a glittering G-string - ALL FOR THE FUN OF IT!

PeeWee has this built in sense of social grace and delightful humour. Now, how many of us have that? Never flashy is this Capricorn friend - you will never see her pushing or shoving for attention but wait and see who gets the prime time.

There is never a dull moment with PeeWee - you can start a serious conversation and end up rolling with laughter. You will just love being around her.

More power to you dear friend!


Tessie (TOG) Guerra - April 14 – ARIES

Likes to open her own doors, fight her own battles and pull out her own chair. This Aries thinks doing it herself is the fastest way to get it done, then stumbles along the way but gets up dusts herself and takes off again.

Love of children and animals must be a strong Aries trait and a penchant for humour in all types and sizes. Some people will say that Aries has a forceful nature complete with flashing lights and this could be true from her ruling planet Mars. Once the storm passes, however, the optimistic April nature will return like a rainbow suddenly appearing after a shower.


Rory Agellon - June 11 – GEMINI

I'd rate her a great Pal with capital letters. This Mercury girl will go along with you on anything from just listening to your phone gab, driving all over to a place that suits you, celebrating the season with some take home goodies that she makes herself.

She has a lot of varied interests and duties to family and church but still manages to look as soft as a powder puff - then - BOY CAN SHE BAKE - declaring herself as the official baker of our amazing birthday cakes.

I especially cherish the time that she joins me on our First Friday Novenas that can last till late at night - even if she drives quite a distance.
Rory is a jewel when it comes to friendship and commitment. She makes our small group feel specially blessed.



Naty Cristi - July 17 – CANCER

My sister must have saved me a dozen times when we were growing up. I remember looking down at her standing solid on the ground as I play Tarzan up on a tree. She will not leave me there alone either until I come or tumble down whichever is faster.

Her favorite colour is Green and very rightly so because green bucks just seem to follow her around. We may start out with the same allowance for the day but she manages to hold on to hers when mine is long gone.

She has a quiet, reflective demeanor with her trademark of a blush that she simply reminds one of calm ripples of water in a pond.
Her family is first and foremost but her friendship is just as enduringly patient.



Esther Lejano - October 3 – LIBRA

Is there anyone out there who would care for some brain power display? Here is a Libra friend who will air her clever wits anytime a subject for a good debate appears. This Libra friend loves to record our goings on that we would not have any of the fabulous photos she painstakingly shoots and sends otherwise. This thoughtful gesture we all know will be the highlight of our twilight days.

As in due time this the only testimony of our friendship we sincerely are indebted to her. She loves good Oriental cuisine, fun colours to wear, loves to swing and sway and with that wit I'd rate her as a golden lady indeed.

In closing, I am grateful to all in our group - we are not miserable old ladies but definitely are vibrant, we haven't lost a step and are still in full bloom!!!

Thank you Sweet Friends!

Mini Reunion in Makati City by Patricia "Bong" Arroyo Staub

January 14, 2011. A sunny day it was. Celia Arreza Espiritu (our class valedictorian) finally set a common date for a mini reunion of PWU High School Class 1960. Venue at UCC in the Rockwell Compound in Makati City. Don't ask what UCC means but I learned it is a chain restaurant originating in Japan. Celia, of course, was there in between her games of golf, Corazon Fausto Gatchalian (our class comedian remember? and now an expert in hotel and restaurant management), Geraldine "Gerry" Tiongson Osias, past PWU Alumni Association President and formerly with UNDP and yours truly Patricia "Bong" Arroyo Staub made it. Also there, but only briefly was present PWUAA President Amelia "Mel" Capistrano Alonso, sister of our dear Puri Capistrano Laconico. I manage to buy a ticket for the forthcoming PWU Alumni reunion scheduled for Februry 26 but unfortunately I could not come so I donated it to someone who can make use of it. Heard from Sari the said reunion was also a success!

Attached pictures show the foursome or quattro with a tropical background which clearly shows we are in tropical Metro-Manila. Not to compete with the maple leaves of Canadian autumn but our very own has its own natural beauty, di ba? Food I ordered was a fusion recipe of spaghetti with TINAPA! Sarap! wish you were all there.

Sorry that Lita Ramos Katigbak was at tht time not feeling well. Lani Villareal Enriquez was also busy with her father who was hospitalized (Hope OK na!). Next time hope to see Sylvia Estrella Caniza, Olivia Abella, Yolanda Bello Pajaro, Presy Cervantes Gatmaitan, Gloria Villareal Boren, Lourdes Fuentes Pagulayan, Corazon "Bobby" de los Santos and Cynthia Ugalde Tan. Our ladies from Bicol - Dr. Lilia Villa Javier and Sonia Alvarez, from Nueva Ecija - Martha Ocampo Soriano and from Bacolod - Marilin Fernandez Arellano as well as Carina Gregorio, Tessie Platon Rupisan, Tita Ang Chua, Ester de Leon Yance, Adoracion Custodio and others might just pop up next time. Who knows? Calling also overseas alumni, please announce your coming as Balikbayans, can never tell, an impromptu reunion is not impossible. Main secret is advanced notice, di ba?....just like Esther Lejano's recent balikbayan visit. Am sure she will make a separate report on that. Looking forward to reading it!

51st REUNION-CLASS 1960 W/ TESSIE M.

"What greater thing is there for human souls than to feel that they are joined for life--to be each other in silent unspeakable memories."-George Eliot Photo with Tessie and Romy with their apos from left Alex, Geli, Lea and Gabe Dear Classmates, "Happy 51st reunion to us all!"

Here's my March 2010 - Feb. 2011 year in review for our blog reunion. After we returned to Bartlett, it was back to reality. Had a very low key 66th Birthday celebration. I can't believe I have been retired for 8 years - parang kahapon lang. The opportunity for an early retirement was so enticing to pass up. Any regrets? un peu perhaps; if I had worked longer mas marami sanang barya sa bulsa, but who wants to lug those around- mabigat. Can't remember much about last winter after the reunion except it was cold too, and that we were making happy plans for May. Spring was for gardening and yard work. Often times, it was a chore and set me back some serious dollars but was rewarding on many levels; being out there in the sun and outdoors after being cooped up; seeing those blooms and greens before the "guests" happily dine on them without invitations and the benefit of exercise as I dug, watered and pulled weeds. May - mini reunion with all my siblings as we celebrated the marriage of our youngest sister. Summer saw us enjoying the days spent with my daughter and family from Dubai, the 4th of July festivities so the apos know all about it when they return for good. I saw Puri and her beautiful family at their family reunion in Chicago. Fall - more yard work in the background of gorgeous reds/yellows/and oranges. Halloween, Turkey day--- simple pleasures. B-r-r-r , what can I say especially after the recent snow storm that made news, but the pristine white newly fallen snow on vegetation and on the ground is beautiful to see from the back door making me more appreciative of the 4 seasons.

The Holidays - the joyful rush of Christmas Tide - shopping, decorating, listening to those CDs once a year, cooking, Simbang Gabi and the merriment of the grandkids as they open their gift; the precious time spent with my loved ones.

I continue to enjoy the activities and camaraderie of the Garden Club and the short hours I give to the Library tho I have skipped now and then. Books, magazines and DVDs keep me up late at night. Perhaps I should add something more like - learn how to knit, prepare the many recipes I have cut out para maiba naman ang ulam or visit Costco and the malls more (heh, heh, heh). Health wise, over all I think I weathered the past year pretty well. In the midst of all these, I found time to send short, few and sweet e-mails (hah-hah-hah). I looked forward to the lively exchanges, the pictures from the Canadian beauties, stories from Ebb and Puri, a few chats with Renita, birthday announcements from Sari and the ensuing greetings, the forwards that made me laugh, that made me pause and reflect , that made me sad. I delighted in sending this to you, pray join the reunion if only through cyber space.