Last Tuesday,
CAFAs got together to celebrate Oni’s birthday and to greet balikbayans Rodi
and Nore. Upon arriving, Emi immediately
inquired about Oni’s age but didn’t get a serious answer. Finding out what Oni's age really is, the
audacious Emi declared that it’s her favorite number (take it from there,
guys). Prior to the party, Rodi was tour
guide to Howi (who had left for home) and so they were in La Union and Palawan
a few days before the party. Meanwhile
Nore arrived from Singapore just that afternoon.
For the record, CAFAs
Pearl and Vic O, Emi M, Cecille A, Rodi
P, Dero P, Alex V and Nore L were present and accounted for. CAFA friends Titus and Botchi S were also
there to join in the revelry. Piano music was provided by Alex Salva, the NeoCAFA’s new musical
director. Fe B initially said she was coming but begged off since her visiting sister from Australia suddenly needed medical attention. NeoCAFAs Dinky E (in Silay) and
Hector L (committed) were not able to attend due to previous commitments. The CAFA group stayed on past the midnight hour especially
after Pearl insisted that the traditional birthday cake ritual be
observed. To those who brought gifts (birthday
cake, chocolates, signature postcards, the limerick book, the gourmet hot sauce, wine, etc.) - my sincere thanks.
The party was actually
shared between Oni’s CAFA (College) and Ayayay (Gradschool) groups. Both groups reportedly enjoyed the evening
although it was observed that the Ayayays were semi-serious and modulated while
the CAFAs were exhuberant and expressive (loud?). Also, while the Ayayay hesitated to go
forward and sing (since they were not prepared to do that), the CAFAs were bold and engaging (shameless?). It
was quite a novel and amusing combination . It is hoped that
more CAFA happy reunions will be slated this year. We’d like to hear from Bess C, Tito V and Sam S – are you guys coming over this year or not?
* * * * *
* * * * *
Gerry and Jojo R just came in from the USA and missed the Oni's party by one day. It is one of their rare visits to the Philippines and the CAFAs got together with them at Comida China restaurant on Sunday. I understand that Gerry will be attending his HS Golden celebration. The CAFAs who came to the resto to greet Gerry and Jo were: Dinky and Milou, Vic and Pearl, Oni and Bili, Rodi and Dero.
See slide show for more photos.
.jpg)
