TWCES Batch '79 Alumni Homecoming

The alumni of Tarlac West Central Elementary School (TWCES) Batch 1979 successfully held their first Grand Reunion with the theme “With gratitude we look back, together we move forward” on the 27th of December 2009 at the Farmhouse in San Isidro, Tarlac City. Although only a fraction of the whole batch of about 9 sections were able to attend, it can be considered as a significant accomplishment as finding and more so gathering, old classmates and friends, separated by 3 decades of varied individual pursuits, alienated by different trades, vocations and professions and scattered not just over the far regions of the Philippines but over distant foreign lands, is quite a feat to undertake.

As cherished and highly regarded by the current school principal and teachers being the first ever Alumni Homecoming successfully carried out by any past graduating class/batch of TWCES, we can say, with all modesty, that just being able to organize one was already an achievement. This should follow that its successful implementation which etched a permanent mark of happiness in everyones' heart was worthy of praise and congratulations. Mabuhay TWCES Batch ’79.

The credit rightfully goes to the hard-working, resourceful and enduring officers elected for the purpose of organizing the momentous event. Through the able leadership of our friend Major Ferdinand B. Lacadin and the untiring help and assistance of Rose De Gusman-Lim, Chona Tanedo-Borlongan, Geraldine Wage-Chua, Melody Reyes-Almazan, Rizza Tadejo, Socorro Martinez, Annalyn Mananguil, Brgy. Captain Orlando Castro, Renato Martinez, to name a few (sorry for those I missed), all constraint, misgivings, reservations, worries and apprehension were converted into a day full of blissfulness, excitement, appreciation, camaraderie and gratitude.

Combined with the exemplary support of course of some of the batch mates who are more than willing to share some of their blessings such as Myrelle Maniego, Leonardo Vega, Ma. Ever S. Miranda-Lacadin and Villamor T. Tuazon, other members who unselfishly devoted time to solicit financial assistance and sell raffle tickets in line with the fund raising program and some select friends and patrons who provided valued prizes, prayers and encouragement, the affair was a resounding success.

In spite of the 30 years added to their age, the female batch mates could still provide a sight to behold. Such descriptions as pretty & sexy, healthy & happy, cute & chubby and gorgeous & curvaceous are surprisingly still fitted to them. But categorizing who’s who is entirely up to you. :-)

The males are still equally charming and exciting :). While time must have added some lines and bulges, the colorful images that follows still provide appealing sceneries and are still strong in making impressions. :-)

It really feels good to chitchat with your classmates which you have not seen for a very long time and yet still remember the funny little things that happened 1 score and 10 years ago in that humble school called Tarlac West.

But of course after the registration, motorcade (sorry no photos) and moments of reminiscing the good old days when everyone were still innocent and naïve, there had to be a program. It is one of the important things taught to us in school - conducting a program. With Soc acting as the Master of Ceremony expect everything to go on smoothly. After Geralyn has led the singing of the National Anthem and the Invocation by Chona, we gave way to Ferdie for his warm Welcome Remarks.

One of the most anticipated portions of the affair was the drawing of raffle tickets. With so many prizes at stakes, it is not surprising to be waited for.

Some lucky batch mates went home with exciting prizes. Some decided to gave the prize they won to other batch mates who are rather in need and financially challenged. For that is one of the spirits of the reunion………..to reach out……….to help………to make a difference.

Dancing is regular part of any affair like this homecoming and some batch mates were willing to prove that they still have the talent and energy to compete with the younger generation (a.k.a. their own kids).

There were parlor games as well. It is so wonderful to see that the class was back to playing with one another. But no ball passing, “patintero”, “piko”, “luksong tinik” and Chinese garter this time. :-)

There got to be some serious stuff of course. Madame Elizabeth Alarios delivered the Inspirational Message in behalf of the current Principal of TWCES, Madame Lerma Gabriel.

As the fun, dancing, games, singing, frolicking and other activities will surely drain out power from everyone, my friend Ferdie and the rest of officers assured that there were plenty of foods and drinks to indulge in.

As always, the crispy and sumptuous “lechon” (whole roast pork) donated by Myrelle is the centerpiece of the feast which includes delicious fried chicken, luscious sweet and sour fish, tasty beef steak, healthy chop suey and creamy spaghetti carbonara.

With such a lavish meal, everyone is with a smile as they lined up for their turn. And when in front of such wonderful buffet table, it’s but natural for Melody, Rizza and Leny to somehow throw the word diet out of the window. :-)

For the boys and some girls like Annalyn, my good friend Amor, generously sent some sparkling drinks that could transform anyone into better singer and dancer. Gorgeous isn’t it? :-)

As the day closes to its end and after Rose has delivered her Closing Remarks, the more we felt like we don’t want to part ways. Old friendship rekindled and the warmth was so comforting. But as separating was inevitable, the promise of seeing each other again was a relief and consolation.

As we are about to feel lonely, Josie who works in Italy, volunteered to host the next reunion in her farm in Tarlac City. She committed to allocating a pond full of freshwater fish for the class……….something that once again, stirred the thrill and excitement among members of Batch ’79.

Thank you very much Ferdie, Rose and the rest of officers and organizers. It’s a job well done.

See you all in the next reunion. I just hope it’s not after 30 years again. c “,)