Celebration of life – Alejandrino Cabanilla

I stayed up all night outside the isolation area, hoping that you’ll wake up when the sun rises. It was the longest night of my life. Hours felt like years. Notwithstanding the risk, I remained calm and kept praying, then suddenly my tears fell like rain as I hear the doctor whisper the code at exactly 5am. The code that nobody wants to hear in an enclosed facility full of hopeful and hopeless victims. Indeed, you woke up but went to a different path.. into the bright light.

Pa, you will forever be my biggest idol. You were our strength when life seemed so unfair and the greatest gift we could ever have. I miss your presence so much. My drinking buddy. My lifelong go-to for life’s FAQs. Jack of all trades. An engineer, electrician, carpenter, plumber, name it, he’ll fix it. We have so many happy memories. In our hearts you will always be. ‘Till we meet again. Thanks for everything, Pa. Love you forever.

My dear friends, hug your loved ones. Tell them you love them every chance you get. Don't wait. Life is too short.