A Wake-Up Call, a Reunion, and the Gift of Time

Sometimes life reminds us—loud and clear—that we are not in control.

Toward the end of 2024, while working out in Auckland trying to be healthy (yes, trying! 😅), I had an unexpected accident. In a split second, I fractured my wrist and two parts of my spine—lumbars 1 and 4. It could’ve been worse, but by God’s grace, I was spared. Still, it was enough of a jolt to remind me: we don’t hold our tomorrow. One minute you’re fine, the next you’re flat on the ground wondering what just happened.

Leaving Auckland for Philippines

As soon as I got the all-clear from my medical team to travel, I knew exactly what I needed to do: go home. Not for rest, but for reconnection. At the top of my list? Touch base with both sides of my family and begin planning the grand family reunion scheduled for December 2025.

So off to Iloilo I went—first stop, my maternal roots.I met with my cousins, gathered for brunch with the ever-wise Manay Lilia Soberano, one of the oldest matriarchs we have found on this side of the family. Over a delicious working lunch, plans began to take shape.

Top Photos: Souribio-Sustento Team Leads with Manay Lilia Soberano

Bottom Photos: Aunty Sally and the Viejon-Sumergido Team Leads

Then came time for my paternal clan.We met over a hearty lunch at Big Bad Bowl, led by Auntie Sally Sermonia—our treasured elder from Papa’s side. These meetings weren’t just logistics. They were filled with laughter, tsismis, family history, and the beauty of seeing our bloodline gather to create something meaningful for the next generation.

And because Iloilo is home—home home—I couldn’t leave without seeing my EGO '67 batchmates. We’re the proud Elementary Graduates of 1967 from Santa Barbara Central Elementary School. It’s been over 50 years since we first wore those uniforms, but the bond? Still strong. We’ve lost some batchmates over the years, which is why we never waste a chance to gather. Be it a birthday, anniversary, or just someone coming home from abroad—EGO '67 shows up. And we show up with laughter, karaoke, old stories, and new updates about our kids and apos.

Time is precious. And healing isn’t just about rest—it’s about restoration of relationships, roots, and purpose.

Photos: Spontaneous gathering of EGO '67 from hosted by President Elna Equiña, Marian Sirilan, Rose Soqueña, Mitty Camago, Flor Sotomil, to Chateu Treenidad in Silang Cavite owned by Romy Sualibios, among others...

This season of my life is all about intentional connection. And if a fractured spine was what it took to slow down and prioritize the people who matter most, then maybe—just maybe—it was a divine reminder to keep my heart aligned with what truly counts.

Until the next gathering. 💛 The adventure continues...