The art of friendship

Had a meeting at the Philippine Stock Exchange building last week, and had to take a snap of this.

It's Ovvian's sculpture!

There's a welling feeling of pride every time I see Ovvian's work. She's gotten her talent in metal sculpting from her dad, and it's always a joy seeing her work.

I'm so fortunate to have such a creative and talented friend.

Friends of Long Standing

I've read somewhere that you meet some of your best and most lasting friends in High School. 

Gary was one of those friends for me.

We met in freshman year. I was new to LSQC, having just transferred from Claret the year before. Was also part of the cream section, and most of the students in that section already knew each other since grade school. Initially, it felt like I'd be the odd man out.

But thanks to Gary, that feeling never happened. He welcomed me and we instantly became friends. 

We'd hang out in school, and we'd hang out after school. His house was near LSQC, and we would sometimes hang-out at their house. Eventually, Dimpy joined us and the 3 of us would be constants. Dimpy's house was the other place we'd hang out after class.

Aside from their homes, our adventures would take us far. Well, far considering that we were in high school and in our early teens. Among my fond memories with Gary and Dimpy was the time we went to Makati and geeked out at the big National Bookstore there. Gary and I would also go to Quiapo to have photos developed and to buy magazines.

When college came, we both ended up in UP, albeit in different colleges. Despite that, we'd find ways to see each other on campus. During our CMT, we we're both in the Sunday battalion, which meant hanging out more often.

Then, we graduated. While we didn't see each other as often, we'd find time to meet up.

Eventually, Gary moved to the US. Despite the difference in time and distance, we always kept in touch. (Thank you, technology!) Whenever he was in Manila, we had to meet up. When we did, he'd usually have a stash of pasalubong, or he would bring the stuff that I'd ask him to buy from the US.

In 2019, Gary asked me to organise his parents' Golden Wedding Anniversary. Since he and his 2 sisters were al in the U.S., and the celebration was here in MNL, he trusted me enough to put everything together. And that meant a lot.

Last time we saw each other was before Christmas. He was home for a visit, and we had our usual Christmas get together. He brought a stash of Trader Joe's mini totes. We talked the possibility of meeting up in the U.S., and maybe even get together with another H.S. friend, Arvin.

Unfortunately, those plans won't push through. 

Last Friday, Jing Jing messaged me asking if she could call. I already felt that what she'd be calling about wasn't good news. When she eventually called, she asked if I was sitting down. Yet another indicator.

That's when she broke the news. Gary was gone.

It was a shock. It still is a shock. There was no inkling that our December lunch would be the last. Part of me is sad that those get togethers won't happen again. But part of me is glad that we were able to see each other last year.

Thanks for being a friend, Gary. For being one of my first friends in LSQC HS, and in the decades after. You'll be missed.

Vaya con Dios.

High School High

One of the friendships that I admire is the friendship of my Dad and  his high school barkada.

Imagine, their high school days were about 7 decades ago, and they still hang out and get together now as if they were in Letran.

They usually have their Sunday get togethers at Pancake House in E. Rodriguez, and Ninong Tino would usually call up Dad and Mom to have their random lunches at Gateway.

And of course, they had to be there during Mom and Dad's 60th wedding anniversary!

Dad's original Letran circle includes Ninong Tino, Danny and Bodjie, and their extended group includes Tito Boy and Bobby.

Now that's a high school friendship worth emulating.

Papa don't Prichy

Referencing Madonna is so irresistible. Hahaha.

Was walking through the school corridor and chanced upon this:

Prichy is actually the reason why I'm teaching in SSC. 

Back when she was the Department Chair of the Mass Comm Department and my office was in P. Ocampo St., she visited me and told me if I'd be interested in taking a part-time teaching job. Since SSC was less than 5 minutes away from the office, and the fact that it was Prichy who asked, the answer was a big, resounding "YES!"

And I"m still here!

But more than that school interaction, Prichy and I have been BFFs since our college years. Our favourite analogy is that if our friendship was a person, he'd be 35 years old now! Gosh!

This makes me feel so lucky because we've known each other not just for many years, but in many roles and iterations - friend, kumpare, co-teacher, co-traveler - and so an and so fort. So, you can say that we practice what we Prichy.

I-1-der

It's always a joy whenever block mates get together.

Can't believe it's been 3 decades since 34 diverse kids got together and formed Block I-1 in UP CMC.

Despite our differences, the block gelled together and was a close-knit group. Of course, there were sub-groups within the block - like the Assumption Girls, the Rizal group, the out-of-towners, etc., but overall, everyone just got along.

Tonight, we had a micro-get-together with 4 of us block mates in attendance.

It was so good to see Dyra again after almost 20 years. And it's always a joy to see Prichy and Wowie.

We've always talked about planning a huge Block reunion.

Makes me wonder if that'll happen soon.

Young & Rowdy

One of the advertising experiences that I'm truly grateful for is my stint at Y&R HKG.

It was an unexpected move which ushered in a lot of firsts for me. That included my first time living abroad, first time living alone, first time managing a regional account, first time in a multi-cultural environment, among many others.

The experience was great. But what made the experience truly awesome were the friends made in HKG. Our team was composed of people from Australia, Canada, China, India, Sweden, Thailand and HKG. We were so diverse, but we gelled together and became fast friends.

Despite the fact that none of us are in Y&R HKG now, the friendship still remained. We've stayed in contact and try to see each other whenever possible.

Yesterday was one of those days.

Had the pleasure of meeting up with Prem. She was the Account Director for the personal care account which was my main account back then. We had a good 3 hours of catching up, but it felt like it wasn't enough. Before we parted ways, we talked about having a reunion with the other Y&R peeps soon.

Now that's something to look forward to.

Iba ang may pinagsamahan

This classic tagline from San Miguel Beer is so apt for our group.

Kin, Jing, LuAnn, Maricar and I were all part of the Corporate Affairs Office of San Miguel. It was during that short SMC stint that the friendship between us started and flourished. (Well, except for Maricar because we've been friends since college.)

Even after my departure from SMC, this group which we now affectionately call "JKLM," stuck together and the bonds of friendship grew even stronger. We've been to out-of-town trips to Pie's weekend home, out-of-the-country trips like HKG and SG, weddings like Lu's, among many others.

We've been planning to visit Jing at her home in QC, but we went a step further and eventually visited her at her home in Laguna. And as expected, it was an evening of catching up, reminiscing and laughing a lot.

So, like San Miguel Beer, I'd say that this friendship is "iba."

School. Mates.

It was super random if you think about it.

Out of the blue, Prichy contacted me and asked if I’d be interested in teaching Copywriting at St. Scholastica’s College. They were in urgent need of a teacher, and she thought my credentials merited me to teach.

First, my advertising career started as a copywriter. Second, my office was just a stone throw’s away from SSC. Third, my academic background fulfilled all their requirements.

Needless to say, my answer was “yes.”

Almost 2 decades later, I’m still teaching.

Because teaching has given me so much more in return. I’ve learned from my students as much as they learn from me. I’ve been inspired by the next generation of advertising practitioners as much as i’ve Inspired them. Teaching has helped me continuously fuel my passion for advertising.

And of course, i’ve made wonderful friends of long standing. From co-teachers, we’ve become great mates. Just like the 3 of us.

This is just 3 of many. And 3 of the many reasons why I discovered school.

Four the win!

We were batchmates at SMC-CAO.

When I was newly-hired, Marla and Jing were already there, and Joannah right after me. 

Because we were all from UP and from the same "generation," we immediately gravitated towards each other. 

First, from cubicle mates, to lunch mates, to Megamall mates, to travel mates. 

Eventually, we went our separate ways. I was the first one to leave SMC, then it was Joannah who moved to SG, then Marla. Jing is still there, along with a number of our close friends.

Despite the time and distance, we'd always make it a point to meet up. Just like how good friends usually do. Our favourite meeting spot back then was Sbarro. It was a place that we'd go back to, despite the many years apart.

In 2018, we met up again, but in a different venue. It was in Corazon in Shangrila Plaza. And while the venue changed, the stories and banter were the same.

Now, 5 years later, and 3 years after the pandemic, we were able to meet up and get t his photo for the 4th time. It was in Salvatore Cuomo at The Podium.

No, we're not abandoning Sbarro. It's just that our "usual" branch moved to the 4th floor of SM Megamall and we haven't had time to check it out yet.

But who knows, our 5th reunion might find us back in our old haunt.

Monalisa's Mile

Nope, this isn't about Julia Roberts' women empowerment film. 

But you know me. I'm a huge Julia Roberts fan and never miss a chance to gush about her.

This is about another Monalisa. An awesome friend who's celebrating her birthday today.

Mona and I met more than 30 years ago as Freshmen in UP Diliman. We were both in Block I-1 of UP CMC. Our block was a fun and diverse group of 1st year students from different provinces, schools and backgrounds. And I'm so fortunate to still be in touch with a lot of my block mates, some of whom have become very close friends.

While we were block mates and classmates in a lot of subjects in CMC, Mona and I moved in different circles. She was a member of "The Geeks," which was our version of "The A-list crowd that everyone wanted to be friends with." Meanwhile, I was just a plain and simple geek. Someone who wasn't cool enough to hang out with the cool kids.

Part of my college memories would be seeing them in CASAA. They'd have 2 rows of tables and chairs for their group, exchanging stories, laughs and Super Lemon candy. We'd say our "hi and hellos" when we'd pass by, but we'd often sit a few tables away from them. (Sometimes, even outside CASAA when it was really full.)

My next major interaction with Mona was when we were in 3rd year. She started this organization called "UP Unang Hakbang" which championed and benefitted street kids. There were two things that drew me to that org: 1.) the very worthy cause they were championing, and 2.) their logo - which is still fresh in my mind until today. It was a crayon drawing rendition of 2 kids, and the org name circling that visual.

That was one of the 1st instances when I was in awe at how Mona would go the extra mile for causes she feels strongly about. She was one of the main reasons I wanted to join. And back then, it was clear that Mona would be a leader who would do great things.

While I did apply for their org and participated in some activities, (okay, 1 activity), my membership fell through. It was probably because I was still working at McDonald's that time, and my crew life took most of my free time.

A year or so later, our paths crossed again in another org - UP Journalism Club. My decision to join the club was very Johnny-come-lately - it was during my graduating year. Mona was one of the officers that time, so she'd be very active in setting tasks for the org applicants.

When it was time for our initiation, we were en route to a "secret location" where the rites were supposed to be held. On our way to the "secret location," someone blurted out "Malapit na ba tayo kina Mona?" That was the 1st time we went to Mona's house in Marikina, and being in her house made me feel like I knew her a bit more.

After graduation, we went our separate ways. But as it usually happens, some of the friendships stayed well beyond the hallowed halls of UP and Plaridel Hall. In my case, those friends were Prichy, Kitel, Wowie, Lhorie and Eva. Even though we all had different jobs, we'd find ways and occasions to meet up.

A year or two after, my post-college-friends-circle expanded. This is when D' Frendz was born. Our group was actually formed in a very organic way. We just came together, grew closer, and stuck to each other for decades. 

It was during this time that I really got to know Mona. 

When you've known each other for 3 decades, it's a given that you'll really get to know each other - warts and all - as the adage goes. 

There are a number of things that I've learned about Mona which can be considered common knowledge, or things that most people already know.

She's intelligent, she's accomplished, she's a born leader. She's generous, she's selfless, she's a family woman - both to her immediate family and extended family (which includes us, luckily.) She's steadfast, she's headstrong, she's level-headed, and she has admirable Faith.

But in my decades of interaction with her, there are also things that I've learned about her through experience. Quite a number, really.

One that strikes me the most - she's an empath.

Empathy - in the true sense of the word - is difficult to find in people. And for Mona, it comes so naturally. 

In my personal experience, she knows when to talk or ask questions, or even offer help. She never presses an issue or a question, and has the uncanny knack of knowing when the right time is. 

She already knew Mark for many years when she asked me the question: "Is Francis your friend?" That question actually made me smile when she asked it. And it makes me smile thinking about it now.

After casually mentioning that my colleagues and I were having this issue with the company we were working for, she immediately suggested that we talk to one of the partners in her law firm that specialized in labor issues.

In 2019, while I was in the ER, she was suddenly there with Ate Bullet. She said that it just so happened she was in TMC and saw Ate, and quickly rushed to where I was. She even called Maricar, and I remember they were calmly talking to me and assuring me while lying in the ER. She even brought food from KFC to our room when I was finally admitted. She said that we probably didn't have dinner yet because of all the tests and paperwork being done that day.

Those are just some of the many, many, many ways that Mona showed her empathy and went the extra mile for me. And her empathy is just one of the many, many, many qualities that people don't commonly know.  But as friends, we're truly blessed to get to experience it in our frequent interactions.

Having true, close, dependable and admirable friends is a blessing. Having one like Mona is all that, and even more. That's why on her birthday, I wish her all the blessings she deserves and everything her heart desires.

Happy Birthday, Mona! 

Family from faraway

Even if it happened more than 15 years ago, it remains fresh in my mind as if it happened yesterday.

It was a work trip in HKG and, as usual, Park Lane Hotel was the company's hotel of choice. I'm happy with that, though, because Park Lane was where Ikea was located, and it made it easier for me to shop for pasalubong during my free time.

While in Ikea, I bumped into a familiar face - Tanya. She was my college classmate and was my co-business manager for our college yearbook. It was my first time to see her in a decade, and it turned out that she was living in HKG. After college, she worked for Cathay Pacific and was based in HKG ever since.

We spent a few minutes catching up, and told her about the work I'm doing in HKG. Then, she told me that this might be just the start of my working in HKG more often, and that I might eventually work there permanently. It was a random comment, really.

Lo and behold, a year after, I received an offer to work for the same agency in HKG. 

After moving and settling in HKG, Tanya became more than a friend, but my family in HKG. She'd be the person I'd ask if there were things I didn't know. She would invite me to her parties so that my circle of friends would widen.

It was during one of those parties that I found out that she worked with a cousin of mine. She also worked with my sisters' friend from Bicol. 

We're both Bicolanos, by the way.

When Tanya became a Mom, she asked me to be her son's Godfather, which I happily accepted.

Even when I left HKG in 2008, we still kept in touch. Whenever my travels - personal or work - would take me there, we'd meet up and catch up.

The last time we got together was sometime in 2015. It was a random trip and we met up at Tung Chung.

A few weeks ago, she visited MNL and I didn't miss the chance to meet up and catch up with Tanya.

Aside from catching up and updating each other about our current lives, one of the nicest parts of this visit was this:

I finally got to see my godson Diego after so, so, SO many years. The little boy I'd play with is now a young man who's almost as tall as me!

While catching up, it felt like we just saw each other last week, even if it's been 7 years. But that's how it is when you meet up with good friends.

Especially if they're friends who are like family.

Comm-patriots

When the 3 of us first met as block mates at the UP College of Mass Communications, we were all wide-eyed teenagers who were raring to embrace what college life has to offer.

Through we came from very different backgrounds, Prichy, Wowie and I became fast and close friends. 

It's a friendship that lasted decades. Even if we moved to different cities and different countries, our paths would always cross and we'd always find ourselves together.

One place where our paths crossed again was another Mass Communications experience. The 3 of us became teachers at St. Scholastica's College - Department of Mass Communications. Being co-faculty members made it so much fun and enriching to teach.

And almost 3 decades since we graduated, we're now back in Plaridel Hall to visit Wowie. She's now the Associate Dean of the College! The same college where we met as wide-eyed teenagers.

Even though it's been decades, being back with these 2 makes me feel like  freshman all over again.

Smells like Friendship

This is something I found online that was so novel, I couldn't resist buying them.

These are scents inspired by TV shows! Particularly, this pair was inspired by Monica's Apartment from the hit series "Friends."

Hope they come up with a Central Perk-inspired scent, too.

From Nakano to Ninongs

Back when Mark was still living in Tokyo, we’d often hang out with Kris.

Our hang outs would vary from the 4th floor common room at IH2 in Nakano, to the cafeteria in GRIPS, to random restaurants around Tokyo. Oftentimes, we’d exchange stories, insights, and plans, especially when they finish their PhD and go back to the Philippines.

When they all came back, we met up with Kris many times. That includes their wedding, friend’s weddings, holidays and a list of other occasions.

And last weekend, another occasion was added to that list.

Mark and I were asked by Kris to be ninongs to their first born - Baby Kai!

We’ve definitely come a long way from Nakano.

At ease, Patis!

It’s a few weeks late, but tonight, we finally got together for the virtual Birthday celebration of Patis!

Just like our Birthday girl, the get together had an ease and relaxed vibe to it. Peppered with excitement from Kahoot and the “Name that Tune” game.

Hopefully, our next Birthday get together will still have the same ease, but in person.

Happy Birthday Patis!

Rache-Ing out

As Claire announced, time to Party like an Aussie for Rache’s virtual celebration!

Because it’s a Melrose celebration, it’s expected to have a lot of stories, a lot of laughs, and a lot of games!

Rache’s Birthday kicks-off our celebrations for the year. So, we’re expecting more gatherings like this very soon!

Happy Birthday Rache! 

Sushi Love

It's so apt that the Sushi Bomb that Elsie gave us for Christmas came in a heart container.

Why? Because we love it!

Actually, we've been ordering from this brand - Aiko Sushi - for years now. Not only is it great, it's also made by Elsie's fam. In fact, it's named after her niece - Aiko - who I've met a few times.

Family made food is always a labour of love.

LFLTAT: Fashionable Friends

Okay, so everyone’s talking about the Friends reunion. For our generation, this is huge! The series is a major part of our young adulthood, so watching Monica, Phoebe, Rachel, Chandler, Joey and Ross share the screen again is like re-living our youth.

And to celebrate this reunion, I bring you this Friends-inspired Look For Less Than A Thousand!

This outfit is from 2 shops from the Golden ABC group. The belted and buttoned skirt is from Penshoppe. While the Friends-print top is from For Me.

Both items were bought online, and on sale! I think it’ rang up to less than P600!

It’s a full, fun outfit for a very Friendly price!

SG = Scrumptious Goodies

It's the same question posed to Jo and KaWei this week:

"Why do things like these keep popping up on my feed?"

These are some of my favourite goodies from SG. It's no secret since I've written about these countless times already. These are scrumptious local delights that we usually get from the different hawker centers around the Island.

Most of these were discoveries that were shared by Jo and KaWei as far as decades back. When it comes to local food, you can trust that locals know the best places to get it. And usually, there are great, non-food memories attached to these great eats.

Like that time when we went to that Malaysian train station after midnight to eat authentic Mi Goreng at one of the food stalls. Or KaWei bringing Jo and me to the Golden Mile Hawker Centre, (home of the best Prawn Mee and Tang Yuan) and exploring the stores that sold Military goods upstairs. Or trying Chwee Kueh for the first time, and craving for it ever since.

It's just one of the many local SG dishes that I've been craving for since my last visit there with Erika last year.

And it's just some of the local dishes that I'll be back for once it's okay to travel again.

Soon. Praying that it happens soon

Beautiful people

I don't see this group of friends as often as I should (except for Kin, who I often run into in the middle of the street - go figure), but when we do, it's always a riot.

Although this "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" get together was almost instant, what's important is that it happened, and we got together again to enjoy the music and the company.

And of course, when we're together, there's always great food to go with the great conversation. Plus a lot of planning for the next outing.

Let's do this people!