It's June 19, 2011. It's Father's Day!! Happy Fathers' Day to all fathers all over the world!!!

Malaybalayan's biological father died last June 18 many years ago. But to this day, we consider him the father we were grateful to God for being under his fatherhood. To say it more fondly: Tatay (Filipino term for father) was, is and will always be Tatay of the best kind. We believe he is now happily reunited with his Maker.

The father of Malaybalayan's children died last March 16, 1998 which was so unfair because it was a day when the city celebrated its annual festival and there we were, so sad for a loved just passed away. Still he was loved and will forever be loved. We believe too he is now happily reunited with his Creator.

So in context, here and now, children, whose fathers are still with you: do cherish them and love them and tell them you love them.


Here now is the promised poem to fathers out there entitled: Papa, Tatay, Abba, Father, have I told you I love you?

Papa, Tatay, Abba, Father, have I told you recently I love you?
If I was remiss, please forgive this shortcoming
Sometimes the day to day challenge just gets to me
The real things get sidelined once in a while.

Papa, Tatay, Abba, Father how do I tell you gently I love you?
As days pass by the opportunities seem to pass me by
Then I marry and have children and we drift apart
You and I just cannot seem to back tract.

So today seems to be just the right moment
There is no more reason not to say it loudly I love you!
I repeat: Papa, Tatay, Abba, Father - I love you you know

May this day stay for a long time just for you.