In October of 2006, a few months before the end of my third and final term as Governor of North Cotabato, two powerful bombs exploded in the plaza of the town of Makilala as the town celebrated its town fiesta.
All told, six people died while over two dozen were seriously wounded.
I was in the plaza shortly after the bombing and even met former North Cotabato Bishop Romulo Valles (now Davao Archbishop) and immediately made the rounds of the morgues and the hospitals to help.
One of those who died in that bombing was Jennelyn Parba, who along with her husband, Ramil, had a stall that sold foodstuffs to make a little money.
I forgot all about the moments when Ramil received help from me and when he came to my office later to get burial assistance given to all the victims.
Two weeks ago, my path crossed with Ramil’s again.
Having remarried and this time working as a tricycle driver in Kidapawan City, Ramil came to me with his new wife and a young daughter, Rosemarie, 1 year and 10 months old, who had a cleft lip.
When I told him that Rosemarie would be operated on for free by Dr. Ben Valdez of the Maharlika Medical Foundation, Ramil broke down and recounted to me how, in the first tragedy in his life, I was also able to help.
He then told me “Nagpabilin ang imong larawan sa akong kasingkasing.” (Your image remained in my heart.)
That was when I remembered Ramil. And I was touched by his statement.
Last Tuesday, Ramil came back to me during the KKK Radio Program on DXND and DXMS bringing her child who had been operated on.
Once again, Ramil and his wife, Maritess, broke down and thanked me for another blessing in their lives.
Me, I could only thank God for giving the friends who were able to help me in making my people feel that they are cared for.
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