bestfriend ni erpat

tito joey was (is still, i guess?) my papa's bestfriend way back their phillips days. he's the exact opposite of my father though... i dunno what made them jive. while my father was this creature ublessed with words, tito joey is the one with the wisest words - and he always shared them. while my father was... ehem, some kinuva mabisyo, tito joey could pass for the father-of-the-year-kahit-na-lifetime awardee. i guess that was his role in my father's life... to be the constant mentor/friend/guardian/reminder. i had very clear memories of his presence way back when we were young... and my papa would get into trouble... and he'll just be there to support him, us in any way - even when his family moved to the states some time in the 90s.

he called mama last friday and told her that he's here in manila and he'd love to see us all. so mama arranged for a poj dinner for last night sana, but he cancelled the last minute and said that he would prefer if we had a simple lunch here at home... so lunch cook-out it is.

i've always found comfort in his mere presence and top it all off with his gentle, wise, wise words. he asked us how we are and gave us updates on his wife, kids, and life as well. he's the type of man you would want to believe and digest his every word 'cause you know he speaks of the truth and the best things in life.

he'll go back to his home tomorrow morning and... wala lang.. it's just wonderful to have people like him around. papa's not around anymore but we're still so blessed to have a friend like him. ingat po lagi. =)