Balikbayans in Bacolod

It's just the first month of Year 2008 but I have met so many balikbayans already. Some stayed for only three to four weeks, while others are contemplating to retire here in the City of Smiles .

Baby and Stella Mora have lived for 21 years in Sydney , Australia and are contemplating to retire here. Another is Bing Occeñola of Denver , Colorado .

Balikbayans from Los Angeles are the Garcia family, Tony, Cecile and children Aaron, Ian, Camero, Dashy, Danica and Koen Garcia. Also in town from Frehshino after 21 years abroad are Liz Grey Brandis, daughter of Marylou Piccio Sweldelson, with Noah Brandis and balikbayan Jun del Castillo and Eddy Magalona Zaldariaga, with cousin Celso Ledesma and friends.

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The launching of a medical mission at the V Flores Day Care Center in Sitio Salong, Barangay Dulao, Bago City was jointly sponsored by the Bago City Health Office under Glenda Carmona and DSWD under Ma. Elena Millero.

A Thanksgiving Mass was officiated by Fr. German Templo, Parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes. Present were Drs. Fritz Gerard Flores, Michelle May Flores, Lasrrisa Jane de Leon, Ruby Garcia, John Paul Oliveros, Edwin Miraflores and Randolph We.

Hundreds of children and adult patients of the barangay and neighboring areas were treated and given medicines and vitamins as well as free snacks.

On hand to assist them were nurses Jessa Joy Guerra and Roxie Ann Daclan and Day Care Center teacher Lourdes Baylosis.

The center was conceived as a legacy in honor of the late Valeriano Flores. There are now 65 children enjoying free education.

Remember: The Savior is loving and compassionate. To Him you can pour out the deepest feeling of your heart and find refuge.*