Vol. 12, No. 12, December 1, 2008

LCHS students, parents and faculty assembled at the vacant lot at the back of JY Dimsun at 7 am in preparation for the parade. At around 8 am a brief send-off ceremory was conducted. Styro-letters of LCHS's celebration were released skyward powered by a few dozens of balloons. Leading the parade was majorette Diana Natividad (4th Yr.). Followed by twirllers, ballers and flag bearers. Minorette (and band leader) was Mary Olivienne Uy (1st Yr). Lyre and drums followed her. And after them came the dragon and lion dancers, the musicians, students, teachers and motorcade.

The parade route covered Quezon Ave., Cabili Ave., and Aguinaldo St. The route was relatively short but the band and performers were playing non-stop all the way. It was quite exhausting for the participants as this was the first parade after a few years for Lanao Chung Hua School. The ERT, a volunteer group composed of Iligan Practical Shooters Club members, and PNP operatives were on hand to provide security during the parade.

LCHS-SG holds fund drive

LCHS is selling 70th Foundation t-shirts as part of the fund-raising campaign of the Student Government (SG). Proceeds will go to the Student Government project which is to furnish the school with a photocopying machine. Alumni are enjoined to pitch in and help the students realize their projects. Interested parties may contact Sian See Honghong, cell no. 09177166091, or LCHS email address: lchs_iligancity @yahoo.com.

A season of thanksgiving

As part of the celebration of its 70th Foundation Day last Nov. 12, LCHS presented plaques of appreciation to the following honorees for their valuable contributions to the school.

Stephen S. Gaisano, Jr., President, Gaisano Incorporated, Iligan City. His generous donation of the sum of P200,000.00 is a most welcome assistance for expansion of the school's library holdings and improvement of existing facilities. This civic-spirited deed speaks well of his exemplary objective in forging closer ties with the Chinese community in Iligan.

Henry C. Dy, Iligan City Vice  Mayor. In the face of an ever-demanding, political life and commitment, he has shown continuous allegiance to his Alma Mater in the many opportunities that may come his way, like when he acted as effective intermediary to bring in financial support to the school. This truly manifests his unwavering dedication to his Alma Mater.

James L. Booc, President, LCHS  Alumni Association. Always looking for a practical and best option to serve well his Alma Mater, he has proven his mettle in the recently-concluded 3rd Grand Alumni Homecoming. His excellence in leadership is what is needed by the school in these trying times.

Johnny T. Chen, Chairman, Steering Committee of 3rd Grand Alumni Homecoming. The success of the recently-concluded 3rd Grand Alumni Homecoming can also be attributed to his meticulousness for details and his resolve to steer the committee members to meet their goals. His stanch involvement in the Alumni Association is inspiring and has paved the right example for other alumni to be connected.

Stephen S. Tan, businessman. A very supportive father and family man, one who will go out of his way to directly help his son's enthusiasm in basketball, he has always been accommodating in the school's sports program by way of financial sponsorship.

Christine Veronica B. Uy

It was our big day at LCHS. And the Good Lord favored us with such a perfect morning, neither hot nor humid, on Foundation Day (November 12, 2008), after days of inclement weather. As early as 7:00 a.m., members from the academe, students, parents, officers of the LCHS School Board and Alumni Association were all assembled at the backyard of James Yu's Dimsum Restaurant along Quezon Ave. (Note: We are indebted to James Yu's voluntary assistance in working out security measures for this activity.) It was a sight to behold with band members, resplendent in their red and white uniforms waiting for their cues, prep and primary pupils all cuddly tucked in their assigned vehicles, teachers donning royal blue Foundation t-shirts, a few parents frantically checking with the hair and make-up of majorettes, and Sir Benghong Vy, James Booc, Johnny Chen with a couple of anxious parents mapping out last minute routes.

The parade started with a ceremonial release of balloons carrying a box-like streamer with the message "LCHS 70th Foundation Day," while students sang the school hymn. On hand to release them were Ernest Oliver Uy and wife Carmichael Uy, Jennifer Co–Pagarigan (both representing LCHS-PTA), Benghong Vy, president of the Board of Trustees, and James Booc & Johnny Chen, president and 1st vice president of LCHS-AA, respectively. Then, the lead majorette, Diana Natividad, blew her whistle to signal the band march. Some alumni, former band members, had goose-pimples as they witnessed the stunning entourage, all 76 members strong, beating through the avenues followed by the dragon and lion performers, the intermediate students with teachers and parents accompanied by a motorcade. Nostalgia seemingly crept in their memories, like deja vu, as they remembered themselves marching through the same thoroughfares and seeing people from all walks of life milling along with them. (Note: Eriberto Cabilan, who is the trainer of the current school band, Lion and Dragon dance, helped start the band in 1985. By 1988, he introduced the Lion Dance.) The entire parade performance, without being biased, was indeed a spectacle to watch.

The rest of the blissful morning was spent in the school gym with live performances of students from all levels showing their singing and dancing prowess. The program highlights were the Award Ceremony, Tribute to the Jubilarians, and a repeat performance of the school band. The Award Ceremony was a special segment where plaques of appreciation were presented to Stephen S. Gaisano, Jr., Hon. Vice Mayor Henry C. Dy, James L. Booc, Johnny T. Chen, and Stephen S. Tan, 2008 Foundation Day awardees. The jubilarians from batches 1958, 1968 and 1983 were presented with special certificates and a school keychain. Among these batches, the silver jubilarians, batch 1983, had a considerable number of attendees. The program ended with a sumptuous luncheon fellowship.

I am lazy and scatterbrained; stubborn and big-mouthed. But don't get me wrong, I love school, specifically this one. From the vast forest-y areas to the fun, sunny playground to the classroom I spend about 8 hours a day in. The curriculum is great too! Aside from having Chinese and Chinese-related subjects, LCHS also introduces Chemistry to Freshmen. A lot of students complain about this particular subject. I am one of those students. But you know what, I'm grateful for this. Finally, the subjects taught in this school can rival those taught at other advanced schools.

My friends are the cherry on top of this wonderful sundae. Although some of my classmates are different from me, they are also very accommodating, friendly and fiercely loyal to those they care about.

As I roam around these wide, balconied halls and look around me to see those sturdy trees scattered all over, boisterous elementary students running along the corridor, realizing that one day my story in school will end, however, a new one will begin.

[Editor's Note:  Maxine Ang is a 1st Year LCHS student. She is the eldest daughter of Stephen Ang ('74). An honor student, Maxine is a promising contender in English and Math competitions. She recently earned a credit award in the 2008 English international assessment competition.] 

It takes just a very quick glance, maybe three seconds, for someone to figure out from what school you are. In this short period of time, a person can immediately identify that you are a product of Lanao Chung Hua School based on your appearance, your body language, demeanor, mannerisms, accent and how you are dressed. For me, being an LCHS student means being unique.

Uniqueness is a part of us. I can say that we are very unique because we both study different curricula. We are able to manage our time to study in English and Chinese, and hang out to mingle with friends. In spite of the number of students, we can show to everybody that we always excel in academic fields and sports. We are also back on track due to the formation of the school band. For me, Lanao Chung Hua School is nothing but the best.

I've been hearing feedbacks from people. Whenever I hear its name, it makes me proud to be part of it. People look up to us whenever and wherever they see us and they say: "Wow! Taga Lanao Chung Hua oh!" When we do something good and honorable in the eyes of the people, they ask themselves and say: "Mao diay, taga Chung Hua man diay!" Loyalty is something that has always been important to me, and that is loyalty to LCHS. It is my school, my second home and my beloved Alma Mater. I am ready to defend what is right for the good of the school.

Lastly, I do solemnly promise to consecrate my utmost endeavors to make the name of my school great and I can proudly shout out and tell the world that I'm a student of Lanao Chung Hua School!

[Editor's Note:  Reggielloyd Aguilar is a 4th Year LCHS student. He doesn't only dabble in writing, he was 1st runner-up in the National Impromptu Speaking Contest sponsored by the Rotary Club recently. He is also a sketch artist.]

Henry L. Yu, M.D., Batch '69

After the kalag-kalag comes the merry and festive Pasko season. Time to go to the bodega to pull out and put up the Christmas Tree, unwrap those boxes of decors with that background music of The Christmas Song as in "Chestnut roasting on an open fire, Jack frost nipping at your nose, Yuletide carols being sung by a choir and folks dressed up like Eskimos ..." while you decorate every nook and cranny of your manz. Or maybe some of us have already done the decorating as early as SeptemBER?

By now, some of us must have also been done with the "what to buy" list - gifts for people we love and care for: lollo, lola, papa, mama, tito, tita, yaya, classmates, teachers, colleagues and associates, etc. Oh well, let me just remind you guys: The price tag should not be our priority. Don't go for it. The gifts need not be expensive. What matters most is the love and thought tucked inside those be-ribboned packages. Let Jesus be our model: He was born in a manger, in a lowly place called Bethlehem. The message is loud and clear: Be humble. Simplify life. Live simply.

Yo! It's Yuletide Season once again and it's time to look back and make a rewind of those Christmas Songs of our time. So let's try to bring back the memories of the rolling '50s and the fabulous '60s when we were the hyperkinetic kids who used to run around the neighborhood. Here are some of the most popular ones during our time: Give Love On Christmas Day // Joy To The World // We Wish You A Merry Christmas // Jingle Bells // O Holy Night // Twelve Days Of Christmas // Silent Night // You're All I Want For Christmas // Silver Bells // Hark The Herald Angels Sing // The Christmas Story // O Come All Ye Faithful // Santa Claus Is Coming To Town // Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer // Have Youself A Merry Little Christmas // I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus // Whispering Hope // Little Christmas Tree // White Christmas // The Christmas Song // O Little Town of Bethlehem // Merry Christmas Polka // The First Noel // The Christmas Alphabet // Let It Snow // Winter Wonderland // Deck The Halls // Blue Christmas // It Came Upon A Midnight Clear ...

Roger Suminguit, Batch '73

NEW SHOPPING HUB. A new shopping arcade was inaugurated in Iligan City on the occasion of the August Moon Festival last Sept 14. The new shopping hub, called Squarelland Shopping Center (in photo hereunder), is owned by Squarelland Corporation and operated by a group of mainland Chinese and local Chinese Filipino businessmen. It's located at the site formerly occupied by Kim San Company, a piece of prime property owned by the Siao family, along Quezon Ave. Ext. and Aguinaldo St. Ext., Pala-o. Housed in this new arcade are assorted shops that sell mostly products from mainland China, such as cellphones, accessories, household items, fashion jewelry, wrist watches, hardwares, fashion clothings, sandals, gift items & etc. The food area includes a franchised outlet of Bun's & Pizza, and a local Kyla's Bistro & Restaurant (in photo) owned by the daughter of Sergio Siao. It serves a variety of international and local cuisines.

GAISANO SUPER MALL. The Gaisano Super Mall Iligan recently opened its 2nd level now occupied by trendy shops and food outlets such as McDonald's, Inasal, and Alberto's Cafe. Many other shops will follow in time for the opening of the cinemas on the 4th level come this December.  Among the shops that opened recently is the D'Look Fashion Boutique that caters to teenagers clothings, such as Crissa & Ergo brands. The boutique is owned by I-Bloom operated by young businessman Carter Go from Manila with several branches in other Gaisano mall locations. At the back of the Gaisano Super Mall is the 4-storey parking area which is nearing completion. The entry of these two new shopping hubs has added new impetus to Iligan's economic acitivity, and their investments are much welcomed by local executives led by Mayor Lawrence Cruz and Vice Mayor Henry Dy.

FIDEL FUERTES. I recently revisited our former mentor Fidel Fuertes at his residence in Cabili Village (in photo hereunder).  I went there to personally hand over to him the much needed cash assistance from our alumni sisters in Dumaguete City, Emma Yap Uymatiao and Elizabeth Yap.  They sent their cash assistance through past alumni treasurer Teresita Racines. Thank you, Emma and Elizabeth.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRANT.  Our birthday cheers to past LCHSAA president Carlos "Bonnie" Dy (Batch '58) who celebrated his 70th birthday last Nov. 2. A small but intimate birthday party was held in his honor by family members. Meanwhile, Jesus Dy (Batch '63) and his wife Melania arrived back in Cebu City from Edmonton, Canada, after a tour of Egypt and Jordan last Nov. 14.

My European Escapade
By Leonardo "Loloy" Tan
Batch 1966

I am not a keen traveler. I must confess I have aerophobia or fear of flying. And I always watch the TV series "Air Crash Investigation." And you want me to fly around the world?  No way! But my wife has been nagging me since we were still new here in Australia to visit Europe. It must be the English influence here and the pompous fairy tale of European royalty.

But it was just postponing the inevitable. Then came the wedding invitation from my wife's cousin in Virginia, U.S.A. We had promised them that we will be there if and when there is a wedding. From Australia to the U.S.A. and back, the air fare is the same as taking one around the world trip. And so a month-long side trip to Europe became a reality.

We joined the Cosmos European Masterpiece tour which was for 27 days. But before that, we went on a tour of Munich and other Bavarian sites on our own for 3 days. Our main purpose was to visit that fantastic castle called Neushwanstien built by King Ludwig -- that very castle which inspired Walt Disney's Magic Kingdom.

From Sydney to Munich, we took the long flight with stopover in Narita, Tokyo, then via the polar route to Europe. A total of 22 hours being airborne plus about 4 hours in transit at Narita Airport Terminal. After finishing a book at Narita, I tried watching the huge TV at the waiting lounge but it was no good for me. I did not understand the show. Perhaps I was just sleepy and could not concentrate. It took a few moments for me to realize that the shows were all in Nippongo! With nothing much to do, I walked around and explored the ultra modern terminal. I found a McDonald's tucked away somewhere but discovered that they don't serve french fries. Very health conscious Japanese indeed. With practically no sleep overnight, I felt a bit drowsy all the time. I kept myself refreshed with a face wash at the rest room every now and then. Much to my delight, I discovered that I could also refresh my bottom "face" with a push of a button at the side of their water closet and a spray of fresh water would wash my behind. What a refreshing experience!

Our port of entry to Europe was Munich. But it seemed to be just a long domestic flight. I barely remembered if there was any immigration or customs formalities at all at the Munich International Airport. It was all very casual. After our arrival and claiming our checked-in luggage, I was expecting to be met by some customs officers with a large dreaded sign of "ACHTUNG!" at the next room. But what greeted me instead were rows of Mercedes Benz taxis! We were out of the terminal in a jiffy.

October was an expensive time to be in Germany. The onset of Oktoberfest! But it was also a very lively time to be in Munich. So many alcoholic and happy Germans on the streets. I was at first apprehensive as we heard so many nasty stories about neo-Nazi incidents. But to my pleasant surprise, it was all happy experience for us. A group of revelers even stopped and had a picture with us and even presented my wife with a giant heart-shaped Oktoberfest cookie. At another time, we were the only ones on the train when a group of around 6 men, mostly intoxicated, got in and they were seated close to us. I was getting uncomfortable with my wife beside me. But they just ignored us and they were just singing aloud by themselves happily. Those who were facing us would just occasionally give us a nod and a smile as if to convey their apologies for their company's wild but happy behavior.

I never realized how important is the local language until our train suddenly stopped that morning when we were rushing to join the day tour to Neushwanstein Castle. Our hotel was just outside the Munich International Airport. We would commute to downtown Munich with their modern, efficient and very clean suburban trains. The trip took around half an hour. We left very early that morning hoping to have enough time to have a great German sausage breakfast at Haubahnhof or central station. There was however an odd announcement by the train operator as we were halfway approaching the train station. The announcement was in German. And we did not have any clue what was it all about! But all the other passengers gave a grunt of disapproval. We inquired about the translation from those people seated close to us. But no one could help us. We were lost in translation! But maybe it was not serious. Not a life and death situation, we hoped.

When the train finally stopped at the next station, all the passengers rushed out of the train at once. My wife and I had a delayed reaction. We were the last one to alight the train. What was happening? Then we asked a young student and she told us the train stopped there. So we left that platform and inquired inside the train station for the next train leaving. But everyone was leaving the train station. No trains were moving. So we just followed blindly the human flow. Luckily, there was this Mercedes Benz taxi just outside the busy train station as if waiting for us. The Egyptian driver who spoke good English told us that the train drivers decided to go on strike for 3 hours that morning! So that was what all the drama was about.

We made it to the Gray Line Tour terminal just outside Haubahnhof. But there was no time to spare for that nice German breakfast anymore. Not even a cup of coffee. But we had a great day trip to the Bavarian countryside. We were finally up there with the fairy tale life of King Ludwig in his Neushwanstein Castle which I first saw in a calendar when I was only a young boy. Now I am here with no Bavarian king nor prince but an English speaking Chinese tour guide with a mystical look. It added to the mysterious life and death of the builder of this magnificent castle.

Igdono U. Caracho, Batch '66

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