I'm really back home

I am back in Zamboanga! The memories of my wonderful and fruitful six months in California and some parts of East Coast are still fresh and vivid. My Tertianship program (the last stage in the Jesuit formation) was a grace filled moment in my Jesuit life as I traced back how God called and accompanied me in my last 19 years as a Jesuit. In all those years, God fulfilled all His promises. Now, I am willing to give the rest of my life to Him in service, especially to the poor and marginalized. God is indeed good and merciful – all the time!

It dawned on me that I am really back in the Philippines …

When I took my first cold shower in Loyola House, Ateneo de Manila. Ang lamig ng tubig! Hahaha. Nasanay na sa hot shower. =) But it was refreshingly cool after the ten-second water shock. I know I am home.

When I went to bed on my first night and I saw lizards on the walls and ceiling. Those small creatures of God that I ignored before and failed to appreciate. Before going to sleep, I praised God for the lizards and slept peacefully. I know I am home.

When the lights went off in the middle of my talk on Ignatian Spirituality; and yet I maintained my composure, smiled and proceeded with my talk. Cursing the Zamboanga Electric Company is useless and it will do more harm to me. I need to get used to this things again. =)


When I saw the dining table at the Jesuit House with different Pinoy condiments – patis, suka with sili, toyo, Mang Tomas, Knorr Savor, pepper and salt. They are very tempting. It’s happy eating time again. But from now on, I decided to use them sparingly.Unless balut and lechon are served ... I need salt and Mang Tomas again. =)

When I started using my handkerchief again to wipe the sweat from my face and head. In Los Angeles, I need to do strenuous exercise to sweat. =) Here, my sweat glands are active again! I am home.

When I presided my first Mass in Pasobolong with simple folks, and had simple breakfast with them: mini pandesal (2 x 1 x ¾ inches) and 3-in 1 San Mig Coffee. I miss the aroma of Loyola Marymount University fresh brewed coffee; but the giggling and laughter of the children and the innocent smile of their nanays and tatays thrilled me more. I am home.

When I visited a friend afflicted with cancer. She was hopeless and depress. I feel so helpless to help her. I just stayed at her side, prayed in silence and supported her with my presence. I know I am home.

When a young Mother came to me and begged for help. Her 12 year old daughter needs a school uniform, socks and a pair of shoes. I gave her half of my monthly allowance. She needs the money more than myself. I am indeed at home.

And I am glad to be home.



My plane trip from Los Angeles to Manila was a sleepless journey. I tried to sleep but failed. The faces of the people I’ve met in the United States kept returning in my mind. Hollywood may have its own memory lane of famous people. But I do have my own memory lane of good people that touched my heart and formed my life when I was in the US. I will not make an attempt to make a list of these people - for to make one is to unjustly quantify the innumerable graces I have received from God through people. They are the best graces I have received from God in the USA.

To all my Mexican friends, MUCHOS GRACIAS
To all my American friends I've met along the way, especially my Jesuit brothers in California, to my brother Tertians and our Master, Fr.John Murphy ... THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

And to all Filipinos I've met in my six months stay there ... MARAMING SALAMAT PO! I am really grateful to God and to you, THANK YOU VERY MUCH. Sobrang pasalamat talaga. You are my “Philippines” away from the Philippines.

And see you here or there! Soon!

I hope to resume writing homilies next week.=)