It was the afternoon of July 12. Amid dark heavy clouds looming above, King Sun took every chance to peek through a shady curtain and spread his radiant summer rays. It was welcome weather, a respite from a prior nine-day heat wave and humid blast that hit Toronto.
Braving the outdoors was most tempting. However, being on the side of caution and safety remained the order of the day. After all, Covid-19 never took a summer vacation and insisted – nay, persisted — to stay, an unwelcome pest to a concerned and scared but incomprehensively hospitable world.
During a great day such as that afternoon, I would have been somewhere serene, bidding Olive a final earthly farewell; or in another quiet place, whispering a fervent birth anniversary prayer for Ruben.
Instead, I calmly admitted my vulnerability. I just had to stay safely at home, as desired by my doctor and wished by my grandchildren. I resorted to pressing laptop keys away for this piece of my mind.
“Home arrest” also gave me the chance to physically greet Mylene, although six feet away, all the best as she turned another year. I also virtually told Bernie that he should enjoy another natal day milestone. Likewise, I touched base and chatted online with May, Letlet, Edmund and Jing. Yes, it had been a long time, my friends.
Perhaps, those were few of the best things I accomplished that July 12 afternoon.
Simple little things, as they say, make the world go ‘round. And it reminds people to celebrate life.
*****
Quoting from the 2003 film “The Last Samurai,” Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise) and Emperor Meiji (Shichinosuke Nakamura) had a brief conversation about Lord Katsumoto Moritsugu (Ken Watanabe), a samurai warrior and poet who was Emperor Meiji’s most trusted teacher.
Emperor Meiji said: “Tell me how he died.” Nathan Algren replied: “I will tell you how he lived.”
Fact it is: People find it quite appalling and sickening to listen to short graphic tales of tragedy and death.
Seriously, I find it very disrespectful to even ask how one died. Destination Six-Feet-Under is basic truth, regardless of time, space and circumstance.
On the contrary, it is most uplifting to hear colourful and inspiring narratives of how others lived, of how they passed on an epic legacy of goodness and kindness even long after they have rejoined the Creator.
*****
In Toronto, Uncle Johnny Rosero, husband of my late Aunt Nitz, left us.
Toronto community media colleagues Jess Cabrias and Tony Sicat did the same.
Gloria Mendoza, mother of Teresa Mendoza-Torralba and Mon, publishers of Wave News; and Olive Unas, better half of Filipino Bulletin publisher Carlos, gracefully ended their earthly pilgrimage.
Knights of Columbus Precious Blood Council brother Al Gallant also passed on to eternal life.
Back in the Philippines, Cotabato media colleagues Boy Tendero and Aniceto Rasalan wrote 30, and so did Philippines News Agency editor Danny Taguibao who had joined Rhapsody barkada Tenny Soriano. They all are with the Greatest Writer in the best newsroom where the most elite journalists gather.
Victor Tutor, a brother in Notre Dame University’s Phi Gamma Beta Fraternity, and Brod Boy Tendero and all our pre-deceased brothers are happily having a fraternal reunion in heaven.
Of course, seminary batchmate who became priest Fr. Pol Yazar, OMI must be concelebrating the Eucharistic meal with fellow batchmate Fr. Rey Roda O.M.I. high above; with former seminarian Jessie Lopez assisting.
All of them have gone to a peaceful haven to rest, basking under a shining perpetual light. To be clear: While they have all passed on during the pandemic era, none of them was a victim of Covid-19.
*****
It is just painfully frustrating that in the era of Covid-19, a bevy of restrictions forcefully swept aside any and all civil and social norms that the faithful usually accorded, with utmost respect, their departed.
Alas! That included being at the side of a lost loved one or a friend in prayer; or worse, being unable to march with a beloved’s body until it has reached the final resting place for the final send-off.
Like many others whose lives they have touched, I have a lot of colourful and inspiring narratives to tell about how they lived. I fervently wish and look forward to the day when we, the survivors, could have this candid exchange of stories that celebrate their life, as soon as applicable and appropriate.
Be that as it may, my mind will always be the treasure trove of all the fondest most cherished memories my departed family, colleagues, brothers and friends shared with me. A picture from the era of sepia tucked in the deepest recesses of my browning tampipi may beat that.
My heart will always beat to the joy of all the beautiful and splendid moments they created within me.
Further, my soul will always yearn for that time and space worth keeping eternally when we’re back at each other’s presence.
To Tito Johnny and everyone who went by Divine Guidance, thank you for instilling in us Faith in the Heavenly Plan God laid down, so that in death we may attain life everlasting.
Our gratitude too for the help all of them extended to revitalize and strengthen our Hope in the Brotherhood of Men that everyone will look out and reach out for each other to make the world the best place to live in.
May the Love sown by all the Departed spread widely and bear fruit for generations to come.
I also pray that, in due time, we can again give the Departed the honour, respect and dignity they so rightfully deserve.
The last time I attended a viewing, a funeral service and a burial was on that pre-pandemic wintry day of January 25, this year. It was for my mother, Isabel Montojo De Guzman Galicia, 87, who passed on January 12.
*****
Sir Mondee, what happened to Kardo?
As soon as word came out that lawmakers in the Philippines sounded the death knell on and formally closed ABS-CBN, the country’s largest broadcast network, on July 10, someone asked me if there are CD copies of one of the network’s widely watched teleseries “Ang Probinsiyano” in any of the shelves at the Toronto Library.
Say, what? I’d better ask Sir Mondee. He might know.
Meanwhile, why not watch cartoons?
*****
Voting for Kris Ontong, one of the finalists in RBC’s Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awardees, will go a long way in ensuring a strong representation in the tapestry of Canadian cultural diversity.
A resident of Steinbach, Manitoba, Kris co-founded the Eastern Manitoba Broad Alliance for Cultural Enrichment (EMBrACE).
Involved actively in community work, Kris was recognized as one of the 2019 National Filipino-Canadian Heritage Event awardees.
He works on the Barangay Canada Vodcast, sharing stories about newcomers on how they are building a life in Canada.
To read his full bio, visit the website and cast your vote at www.canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25.
Voting ends on August 7.
*****
Just in case we still need to know and understand, the Toronto City Council requires masks or face coverings in all enclosed public places as of July 7, to help stop the spread of and protect city resident from Covid-19. The measure heeds advice from the Medical Officer of Health, a city press release said.
Scientific evidence suggests the use of masks and face coverings is an inexpensive, acceptable, and non-invasive measure to help control the spread of Covid-19, through contact with respiratory droplets produced by someone who is infected when they cough, sneeze, or even when they laugh or speak, including by individuals who may not have symptoms. Evidence suggests wearing a mask reduces the risks of droplets infection.
The new bylaw requires businesses to adopt a policy to ensure masks or face coverings are worn in indoor public spaces under their control.
The bylaw applies to all indoor spaces openly accessible to the public, including retail stores, convenience stores, malls, shopping plazas, grocery stores, bakeries, farmer’s markets (enclosed areas), restaurants, bars (when permitted to open for indoor service), indoor recreational facilities, gyms, swimming pools (when permitted to open), libraries, community centres, community service agencies, personal service settings, churches, mosque, synagogue, temples and faith settings, art galleries, museums, aquariums, zoos, banquet halls, convention centres, arenas, stadiums, and other event spaces, real estate facilities such as open house, presentation centres, common areas in hotels, motels and short-term rentals (e.g. lobbies, elevators, meeting rooms), entertainment facilities including concert venues, theatres, cinemas, casinos, and business offices open to the public.
The bylaw exempts those who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons, children under the age of two, and other reasonable accommodations. The bylaw permits the temporary removal of a mask or face covering when receiving services, having a meal, or engaging in athletic or fitness activity.
The bylaw will not apply to apartment buildings and condominiums, child care facilities and schools, and areas that are not enclosed (i.e. restaurant patios).
This new bylaw will expire at 12:01 a.m. on the first day after the completion of the first Council meeting following summer recess (currently scheduled for September 30 and October 1, 2020), unless extended by Council. The Medical Officer of Health will review the recommendations regarding masks and face coverings on a monthly basis and report if any changes are required before September 30.
Earlier, the TTC Board voted to make masks or face coverings mandatory on TTC vehicles and premises as of July 2.
Mask or face coverings are mandatory on the City ferry to Toronto Island Park, as well as in certain business settings, like salons and tattoo parlours.
Face masks and coverings do not replace the need to keep a distance of two metres or six feet from others, washing hands often and staying home when sick.
*****
A simple reminder: Nothing is done until the pandemic is gone. Use that facial cover until the threat is over. Better safe than sorry. Stay healthy, everyone. #####
It was the afternoon of July 12. Amid dark heavy clouds looming above, King Sun took every chance to peek through a shady curtain and spread his radiant summer rays. It was welcome weather, a respite from a prior nine-day heat wave and humid blast that hit Toronto.
Braving the outdoors was most tempting. However, being on the side of caution and safety remained the order of the day. After all, Covid-19 never took a summer vacation and insisted – nay, persisted — to stay, an unwelcome pest to a concerned and scared but incomprehensively hospitable world.
During a great day such as that afternoon, I would have been somewhere serene, bidding Olive a final earthly farewell; or in another quiet place, whispering a fervent birth anniversary prayer for Ruben.
Instead, I calmly admitted my vulnerability. I just had to stay safely at home, as desired by my doctor and wished by my grandchildren. I resorted to pressing laptop keys away for this piece of my mind.
“Home arrest” also gave me the chance to physically greet Mylene, although six feet away, all the best as she turned another year. I also virtually told Bernie that he should enjoy another natal day milestone. Likewise, I touched base and chatted online with May, Letlet, Edmund and Jing. Yes, it had been a long time, my friends.
Perhaps, those were few of the best things I accomplished that July 12 afternoon.
Simple little things, as they say, make the world go ‘round. And it reminds people to celebrate life.
*****
Quoting from the 2003 film “The Last Samurai,” Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise) and Emperor Meiji (Shichinosuke Nakamura) had a brief conversation about Lord Katsumoto Moritsugu (Ken Watanabe), a samurai warrior and poet who was Emperor Meiji’s most trusted teacher.
Emperor Meiji said: “Tell me how he died.” Nathan Algren replied: “I will tell you how he lived.”
Fact it is: People find it quite appalling and sickening to listen to short graphic tales of tragedy and death.
Seriously, I find it very disrespectful to even ask how one died. Destination Six-Feet-Under is basic truth, regardless of time, space and circumstance.
On the contrary, it is most uplifting to hear colourful and inspiring narratives of how others lived, of how they passed on an epic legacy of goodness and kindness even long after they have rejoined the Creator.
*****
In Toronto, Uncle Johnny Rosero, husband of my late Aunt Nitz, left us.
Toronto community media colleagues Jess Cabrias and Tony Sicat did the same.
Gloria Mendoza, mother of Teresa Mendoza-Torralba and Mon, publishers of Wave News; and Olive Unas, better half of Filipino Bulletin publisher Carlos, gracefully ended their earthly pilgrimage.
Knights of Columbus Precious Blood Council brother Al Gallant also passed on to eternal life.
Back in the Philippines, Cotabato media colleagues Boy Tendero and Aniceto Rasalan wrote 30, and so did Philippines News Agency editor Danny Taguibao who had joined Rhapsody barkada Tenny Soriano. They all are with the Greatest Writer in the best newsroom where the most elite journalists gather.
Victor Tutor, a brother in Notre Dame University’s Phi Gamma Beta Fraternity, and Brod Boy Tendero and all our pre-deceased brothers are happily having a fraternal reunion in heaven.
Of course, seminary batchmate who became priest Fr. Pol Yazar, OMI must be concelebrating the Eucharistic meal with fellow batchmate Fr. Rey Roda O.M.I. high above; with former seminarian Jessie Lopez assisting.
All of them have gone to a peaceful haven to rest, basking under a shining perpetual light. To be clear: While they have all passed on during the pandemic era, none of them was a victim of Covid-19.
*****
It is just painfully frustrating that in the era of Covid-19, a bevy of restrictions forcefully swept aside any and all civil and social norms that the faithful usually accorded, with utmost respect, their departed.
Alas! That included being at the side of a lost loved one or a friend in prayer; or worse, being unable to march with a beloved’s body until it has reached the final resting place for the final send-off.
Like many others whose lives they have touched, I have a lot of colourful and inspiring narratives to tell about how they lived. I fervently wish and look forward to the day when we, the survivors, could have this candid exchange of stories that celebrate their life, as soon as applicable and appropriate.
Be that as it may, my mind will always be the treasure trove of all the fondest most cherished memories my departed family, colleagues, brothers and friends shared with me. A picture from the era of sepia tucked in the deepest recesses of my browning tampipi may beat that.
My heart will always beat to the joy of all the beautiful and splendid moments they created within me.
Further, my soul will always yearn for that time and space worth keeping eternally when we’re back at each other’s presence.
To Tito Johnny and everyone who went by Divine Guidance, thank you for instilling in us Faith in the Heavenly Plan God laid down, so that in death we may attain life everlasting.
Our gratitude too for the help all of them extended to revitalize and strengthen our Hope in the Brotherhood of Men that everyone will look out and reach out for each other to make the world the best place to live in.
May the Love sown by all the Departed spread widely and bear fruit for generations to come.
I also pray that, in due time, we can again give the Departed the honour, respect and dignity they so rightfully deserve.
The last time I attended a viewing, a funeral service and a burial was on that pre-pandemic wintry day of January 25, this year. It was for my mother, Isabel Montojo De Guzman Galicia, 87, who passed on January 12.
*****
Sir Mondee, what happened to Kardo?
As soon as word came out that lawmakers in the Philippines sounded the death knell on and formally closed ABS-CBN, the country’s largest broadcast network, on July 10, someone asked me if there are CD copies of one of the network’s widely watched teleseries “Ang Probinsiyano” in any of the shelves at the Toronto Library.
Say, what? I’d better ask Sir Mondee. He might know.
Meanwhile, why not watch cartoons?
*****
Voting for Kris Ontong, one of the finalists in RBC’s Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awardees, will go a long way in ensuring a strong representation in the tapestry of Canadian cultural diversity.
A resident of Steinbach, Manitoba, Kris co-founded the Eastern Manitoba Broad Alliance for Cultural Enrichment (EMBrACE).
Involved actively in community work, Kris was recognized as one of the 2019 National Filipino-Canadian Heritage Event awardees.
He works on the Barangay Canada Vodcast, sharing stories about newcomers on how they are building a life in Canada.
To read his full bio, visit the website and cast your vote at www.canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25.
Voting ends on August 7.
*****
Just in case we still need to know and understand, the Toronto City Council requires masks or face coverings in all enclosed public places as of July 7, to help stop the spread of and protect city resident from Covid-19. The measure heeds advice from the Medical Officer of Health, a city press release said.
Scientific evidence suggests the use of masks and face coverings is an inexpensive, acceptable, and non-invasive measure to help control the spread of Covid-19, through contact with respiratory droplets produced by someone who is infected when they cough, sneeze, or even when they laugh or speak, including by individuals who may not have symptoms. Evidence suggests wearing a mask reduces the risks of droplets infection.
The new bylaw requires businesses to adopt a policy to ensure masks or face coverings are worn in indoor public spaces under their control.
The bylaw applies to all indoor spaces openly accessible to the public, including retail stores, convenience stores, malls, shopping plazas, grocery stores, bakeries, farmer’s markets (enclosed areas), restaurants, bars (when permitted to open for indoor service), indoor recreational facilities, gyms, swimming pools (when permitted to open), libraries, community centres, community service agencies, personal service settings, churches, mosque, synagogue, temples and faith settings, art galleries, museums, aquariums, zoos, banquet halls, convention centres, arenas, stadiums, and other event spaces, real estate facilities such as open house, presentation centres, common areas in hotels, motels and short-term rentals (e.g. lobbies, elevators, meeting rooms), entertainment facilities including concert venues, theatres, cinemas, casinos, and business offices open to the public.
The bylaw exempts those who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons, children under the age of two, and other reasonable accommodations. The bylaw permits the temporary removal of a mask or face covering when receiving services, having a meal, or engaging in athletic or fitness activity.
The bylaw will not apply to apartment buildings and condominiums, child care facilities and schools, and areas that are not enclosed (i.e. restaurant patios).
This new bylaw will expire at 12:01 a.m. on the first day after the completion of the first Council meeting following summer recess (currently scheduled for September 30 and October 1, 2020), unless extended by Council. The Medical Officer of Health will review the recommendations regarding masks and face coverings on a monthly basis and report if any changes are required before September 30.
Earlier, the TTC Board voted to make masks or face coverings mandatory on TTC vehicles and premises as of July 2.
Mask or face coverings are mandatory on the City ferry to Toronto Island Park, as well as in certain business settings, like salons and tattoo parlours.
Face masks and coverings do not replace the need to keep a distance of two metres or six feet from others, washing hands often and staying home when sick.
*****
A simple reminder: Nothing is done until the pandemic is gone. Use that facial cover until the threat is over. Better safe than sorry. Stay healthy, everyone. #####