May 11, 1945 – January 29, 2017
From her roots in Bulacan and her upbringing in the bustling streets of Tondo, she eventually found her way to Surigao. It was there that she met my Lolo, Juanicio P. Gordonas, beginning a lifelong partnership that would bring six wonderful children into this world: Nonita, Bebilita, Rodelio, Jessica, Roger, and Etchel.
In the 1980s, Lola and Lolo moved to Taguig, which would become the home where they spent the rest of their years. For me, "home" was wherever Lola was.
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| Lolo Juanicio and lola Isca sometime in 1990s |
The Architect of My Childhood
Growing up under her care was the greatest privilege of my life. She was the one who walked me to school every single day, the one who bathed me, fed me, and stood by me through the messy, formative years of my youth. I still remember the simple joys she brought into my life—the Jack n' Jill Pretzels and Snacku she’d pick up for me, and that special ube halaya from the Bicutan Market that tasted like pure love.She was a woman who never stopped working. Whether she was selling puto, siopao, bocayo, suman, or even repacking coal and ice, she showed me the meaning of industry and perseverance. Even during our hardest times—like when we lived without electricity or running water in North Daang Hari after being relocated—she remained the pillar of our home. Her spirit was never broken, and she carried us through those years with a quiet, steady courage.
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| Me and lola Isca on a ship in Cebu going to Surigao in 1998 |
Her Heart and Humor
Lola Isca was profoundly funny. She had a way of lighting up a room with her jokes, and she was my biggest cheerleader. I can still hear her voice, boasting to anyone who would listen, "Pogi ng apo ko!"—always praising my face and my nose with such pride. She saw the best in me even when I struggled to see it in myself.When I finally landed my job in 2010, the greatest joy of my life was the opportunity to give back to her. It was the least I could do for the woman who sacrificed everything so that I could become who I am today. We were not wealthy in material things, but because of her, I was rich in love and care. I have absolutely no regrets. I cherished every moment, every meal, and every quiet night spent sleeping beside her.
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| Me and lola in 2010 |
A Legacy That Lives On
Lola, you were a woman of immense spirit. You faced life’s demolitions, relocations, and financial storms with a head held high. You raised me with everything you had, and the man I am today is a reflection of your labor and your affection.Though you have been laid to rest at the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Parañaque, the 75 years of your existence will never be forgotten. You live on in the stories I tell, the memories I hold, and the love I carry in my heart.
Thank you for everything, Lola Isca. I love you more than words can express, and I truly look forward to the day we meet again.
“I hope we meet soon again. Until then, you are forever in my heart.”
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