Below is a short article on our visit to Philip Manalo's Birthday Celebration:

As Robbie was parking his car in front of Ipe’s house, we saw Jing Zubiri 
peering over the gate from the inside and giving us a nice smile. Nauna 
na naman siya sa amin considering he came all the way from Angeles City.

Philip’s parents and sister warmly welcomed us. Mrs. Canave, Robbie, 
Ariel, his son Kenneth and I were introduced to the rest of the family, 
we were seated at the veranda where chairs and an altar were arranged for 
Sunday mass. The garden too had chairs and tables for the party, which I 
was especially looking forward to. The buffet table was still empty. Takaw talaga. 
After a few minutes, Philip was wheeled out from his bedroom together with a 
nurse. As the family gathered around him, we greeted Philip happy birthday. 
He just stared blankly at us and with that, we noted the real condition he 
was in. The priest’s message for that occasion was about transfiguration, 
meaning changes that God makes in our lives always has a purpose. We should 
always accept with humility in whatever we have in life, and gather strength 
from God, our family and friends to overcome those trials and temptations. The 
priest further added that Philip’s family is blessed, for what had happened 
to Philip has brought them all closer together. 

[w/ your permission, RT, I would like to add that he also said not to use 
the word 'SAYANG' in Philip's case because what has happened to him has not 
come to naught but rather it is a BLESSING for his family and friends. God 
has a purpose for everything that has happened. In our case, it was the 
inspiration and binding force that led to the creation of this website, the 
reason that it has been dedicated in part to Ipe.]

After the mass, we noticed several relatives arrived. Jun-Jun Casillian and 
Leo del Castillo were there too. It was time to get our pictures taken with 
Philip, thanks to Ariel who brought his Video Hi-8 and Jing for his camera. 
Food was served then, and the buffet table was filled to the max, buti wala 
si Max Medina. Joke lang...Max. We had a great time exchanging stories while 
eating, as if we haven't seen each other for years. As usual, Mrs. Canave 
updated us on alot of LSQC trivia and some faculty stories. For those who
were not around, syiempre kayo ang mga pinaguusapan, but do not worry, we 
were in a jolly mood...except for that part about Saldie. Philip's mom joined 
us at our table and expressed her gratitude especially to Ariel who makes it 
a yearly endeavor to be there on Philip's birthday considering Philip is the 
ninong of Kenneth. Ariel remembers the days they would just hang around
Philip's basement. Alam mo na, sila-sila.

[Philip's mom also expressed her gratitude to those people who have been sending
greetings cards to Ipe whether on his birthday or during Christmas or even when
there is no occassion. Your prayers are very much appreciated by the family.]

Time flies so fast when you are having a great time. We bid farewell to 
the family and since Philip was resting...we left without saying goodbye...
knowing we will be back again...with more... til next time Philip, 
all our prayers are with you.

RT (busog)