Lolo Tibo, my grandfather from mother side came from As-is, Bauan, Batangas. The Batanguenos from As-is were known for hard work, honesty and entrepreneurship.

Most of the sidewalk vendors selling eyeglasses and other stuff on collapsible shelves along the stretch of Rizal Avenue, particularly the span between Carriedo and Raon streets, were from As-is. As I walked along Avenida Rizal to buy science pocket books from Alemars Bookstore in the late 60's, I often passed by Ka Juaning, one of the vendors.

Victor Arellano, one of Lolo Tibo's nieces, exemplified not only an ideal "ala-e" but a very successful professional of As-Is. His father, Lolo Tino, was a puto-kutsinta vendor and a stevedore at the Manila pier. When we were in living San Andres St, I remembered buying puto from Lolo Tino. His booming voice signalled his presence in our duplex house at La Paz, Makati. And hours and hours of listening to his stories of hard work and love for his children consumed most of my day when he was around.

While Lolo Tino was working in Manila, his son Victor was a very conscientious student studying in Batangas to become a teacher. And he became one. The last time I visited him, he was completing his PhD.

Victor visited our house each time he was in Manila. No matter what the schedule was, he ensured to have a session with my father, Ka Iking. He confided to me that Ka Iking was his advisor. That explained their lengthy meetings as I sat beside them during my elementary and high school years.

Today, Victor is a manager of the Port Services Division, Philippine Port Authority, PMO Batangas at Port of Batangas. A victor serving the government is a man of intelligence, honesty and hard work. A Victor to many victors. Our country needs more Lolo Tino and Victor!

Labels: As-is, Batangas pier, Bauan, CEO blog, Efren Ricalde, honesty, integrity, Ka Iking, Lolo Tibo, Lolo Tino, PPA, Rizal Avenue, Victor Arellano

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