Bandilyo Abaknon

E Grupo Mo, or more popularly known as EGM, celebrated last week its 10th anniversary.  It turned out to be one huge success, as members from everywhere came in droves. Some of those who arrived were from outside Metro Manila, and of course some took time and effort to come from Capul (e.g. Vice Mayor Rene Pasco, Kgd. Marlon Mente and Mr. Elmer Gaco). The EGM was formed by a group of Abaknons cored by a close barkada. It has evolved thru the years into a bond that unites the members both in times of extreme challenges and wild fun. This year's celebration comes in the form of thanksgiving for the safe passage and quick recovery from the pain that covered Marikina a few months back.  To the organizers of EGM, congratulations for the blockbuster party. After 10 years of friendship, now comes the challenge:  Is it not about time that  EGM becomes  a formal organization that could engage in worthwhile projects for our kababayans? If the show of strength during the anniversary is

Congratulations to the organizers. Reports say it went well. (pics from Alex Castillo. more please!)

It has become a common observation that many Abaknons suffer from hypertension and other heart ailments. In fact, in some cases, fatal attacks have unfortunately occured. It is thus laudable that Capul's health officials have encouraged people to exercise. And to make sure it is sustained, the tasks were done, not individually but with many others in a group. Dubbed as "hataw", the participants normally converge at the break of dawn at the town plaza. And to the tune of dubbed music with instructions, they stretch, slide, jump and sway. It is hoped that this effort will continue. As they say, "health is wealth". May more Abaknons join the fun while toning their bodies.

Ryen Jevs Cabacang Andaya recently celebrated his 7th birthday - a milestone for kids. Shown here are pics of that day, as he shared his modest party with friends and relatives.

Mr. Pedro "Peding" Ortego, one of the pioneers of the Abaknon community in the US,  passed away on February 9, 2010. Family and friends laid him to his final resting place on February 13 at the Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, California. Bandilyo Abaknon extends the Capulenos' condolences to the family. We likewise enjoin everyone to pray for his eternal repose. (Group picture:  Peter/nida Ortego and kids, Bob/Jojie Ortego and kids, Faye/Larry Bishop and kids. Ms. Minda Calipay, Elena, Marison Lomentigar, Josephine/and husband  and their dad) (2nd picture: Bernard Ortego, Mana minda, Elena and Peter Ortego)

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY si dimuan Abaknon!

This comes a little late, but since the road they're facing is quite long anyway,  this publication might still give their union an additional shot in the arm.  Here thus are pictures of the blissful day when two lovebirds decided to tie the knot:  our very own PO2 Isidro (Chito) Magloyuan (newly promoted as PO2 last month) and Tacloban's PO1 Glenda Venezuela. The wedding was held at Sacred Heart Church in Tacloban City on January 18, 2010. In attendance are Abaknon relatives and friends. From Bandilyo Abaknon, here's wishing the couple a life of prosperity and love. Congratulations and best wishes.