The document summarizes the College of the Holy Spirit Manila Alumni Foundation's annual Christmas gathering at the Convent of the Holy Spirit in Quezon City. It describes the entertainment program provided for the aging and retired Sisters of the Holy Spirit, including performances by professional singers of Broadway musical pieces. It discusses how the alumnae helped serve food to the Sisters since many are immobile or use wheelchairs. The gathering aimed to break the monotony of life at the convent and bring joy to the Sisters through music, games, and fellowship with the alumnae visitors.

1. JANUARY 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 l One with the Sisters
2 l From your Alumnae Board
3 l Countdown! Homecoming
Day 2016 Celebrates
the CHSian as Filipina
4 l Hearts and Hands Across the
Miles
5| Deep Pride
6 l Bingo!
8 l School News: Mendiola
Consortium Christmas
Gathering
9-10 l Gallery
11 l Advertisements
12-13 l E-mail Connection
14 l Into Eternal Life, Prayers,
Congratulations to…
Every year in December, members of
College of the Holy Spirit Manila Alumni
Foundation gather at the Convent of the
Holy Spirit in Poinsettia Quezon City to
share the joys of the Christmas holidays
with the aging, retired, and sick sisters.
The convent at Poinsettia serves as
formation house for young S.Sp.S. sisters
and as retirement place for older sisters
and the disabled. In the afternoon of
Saturday, Dec. 5 the peaceful convent
was filled with music and entertainment
and the clatter of voices of alumnae and
guests. The program started with an
inspiring prayers led by Amy Tolosa-
Duremdes (HS-71) invoking the Holy
Spirit to touch and mold each one of us,
and to let as grow in virtue.
The sisters and alumnae watched with
beaming faces and listened in awe to
professional entertainers singing
Broadway theater musical pieces.
Chinggoy Alonzo, a seasoned theater
actor now more known as a performer in
TV soap operas, has been a regular part
of this celebration since a few years ago.
Chinggoy is the husband of Beth Bascara
(HS-72).
This time he was supported by theater
actors Roger Chua and a group of young
artists in singing stage musical pieces
from the play Marco Polo the Musical
which will be staged in London in
August 2016.
The merienda was enjoyed by the
sisters and guests although the sisters
ate very little. The alumnae helped the
waiters serve the food to the sisters
since many of the sisters are immobile
and others are wheelchair-borne.
While sharing the food donated by the
alumnae and the foundation, the sisters
and the alumnae had an enjoyable time
in conversation. The sisters are always
very happy to be visited by the alumnae
and guests since it breaks the
monotony of life at the tranquil
convent.
A game followed the snacks. Some
sisters volunteered to participate in the
question and answer contest about
holidays and the saints’ feast days. The
program was emceed by Lalah Pascual.
It was incredible how Sr. Angelina and
Sr. Julita helped by Sr. Yeye participated
actively.
By: Daisy Villasis-Montesa (HS-68/SChem-73)
Continuedon page 7
Tel. No. (632) 735-5986
FB page: www.facebook.com/CHSAlumniFoundation
FB group: www.facebook.com/groups/chsaf
JANUARY

2. 2
FROM YOUR ALUMNAE BOARD
Adopt-a-Scholar Project - Appeal to Sponsors
It will be greatly appreciated if payments of your pledges are updated.
For inquiries, please call: Ms. Cora Parco at 735-5986
WE, the Alumnae
Editorial Board
Ma. Victoria B. Anastacio (HS-63/AB-67)
Victoria Torres-del Rosario (HS-77)
Remedios “Tita” Dizon (HS-63)
Riziel Fajutag-Icaro (AB-11)
Virginia P. Macaso (BSChem-63)
Maria Corazon B. Parco (AB-63/BSE-64)
Sr. Victricia Pascasio, S.Sp.S. (HS-53/AB-57/BSE-64)
Ma. Belen Elvira S. Tiongco (HS-77)
Lorraine Young-Sylianteng (HS-73)
Email address:
we.thealumnae@gmail.com
For more than two and a half years,
the alumnae, through the CHSAF
Board and Alumnae Core Group,
have been negotiating with the
S.Sp.S. congregation to keep our
dear alma mater open. We have
been working tirelessly to ensure the
continuance of CHSM’s education
mission. Finally in September of this
year, the Congregational Leadership
Team in Rome, upon the
recommendation of the Provincial
Leadership Team in Manila, agreed
to collaborate with the alumnae to
keep the school in operation. We
are now in the last stage of
negotiations and are hopeful that
the alumnae will take over the
management of CHSM by next
school year.
The road to this end has not been
easy. There have been many
struggles and obstacles along the
way. Sometimes it felt like we were
on a roller coaster going through
highly emotional peaks and valleys. I
remember moments when we were
ecstatic and giddy, and times when
we almost lost hope. What was
heartwarming though was the
support we got from each other.
When some of us were ready to
surrender in defeat, the others would
would inspire us to keep on
fighting. When some of us were in
tears, the others
would offer warm hugs and words
of encouragement to give us the
strength to continue. We
constantly prayed for one another
and for our mission to see the
school continue. We prayed to
Blessed Mother Josepha, to our
Mother Mary and, of course, to the
Holy Spirit for courage and
enlightenment. In the end what
kept us going was our common
desire to see CHSM continue and
thrive. We remain strong because
we are united in one purpose.
Unity in Purpose
By: Maria Theresa Abeleda-Llave (HS-73)
MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL FORM
I would like to renew my active membership in the CHS Alumnae
Foundation. Enclosed is my payment (cash/check) as follows:
_______ Php500.00/US$12.00 (One-year membership)
_______ Php1,000.00/US$24.00 (Two-year membership)
Name: _______________________________________
Address: _______________________________________
Tel. No. _______________________________________
E-Mail Address: __________________________________
Note: Pls. make your checks payable to:
CHS ALUMNAE FOUNDATION, INC. and mail c/o The Alumnae
Office, 163 E. Mendiola, Manila.
Please be reminded that Lifetime or Perpetual Membership has been
cancelled since the mid-2000s. Our membership dues help sustain the CHSAF
officeoperationsand projects. Thank you.

3. The countdown to February 7, 2016 has
begun!
It’s 25 days to go before Homecoming Day
2016 and counting.
The High School Class of ’66, the Golden
Jubilarians and host of the 2016
Homecoming Day celebrations, could not
be busier. Meetings, dance practices, and
mini-reunions have filled personal
calendars and even bumped off work
commitments. We could not have coped
without SMS, email, Facebook, and Viber.
But here we are, almost at the threshold
of the great celebration. As the Big Day
draws near, we look forward to seeing old
friends, teachers’ familiar faces,
unforgettable places. Each one, for sure,
will have lots of stories to tell.
What’s in store? Here’s a preview.
Our Homecoming Day will carry the
theme The CHSian: Proudly Filipina to
signify pride in our roots, our ethnicity,
and our nation and, of course, pride in our
school. Pose beside a standee of the
CHSian (our logo) for your first photo of
JUBILARIANS
for the Holy Mass, organized by the
Emerald Jubilarians. Following the Mass,
the CHS Alumnae Foundation Board will
conduct the meeting of the General
Assembly.
Time for the Salo-Salo!. The Sapphire
Jubilarians will be preparing a feast of
kare-kare, lumpiang sariwa, rellenong
alimasag, and chicken barbeque amidst
festive and colorful pahiyas leaves. The
halo-halofinale completes the meal.
Now comes the most awaited part of the
day – the moment of feeling young again
through the performance of music and
dance. The Program will pay tribute to
Original Pilipino Music (OPM) featuring
the compositions of Katy de la Cruz, VST
& Co., and the Hotdogs, among others.
This promises to be hilarious and fun as
the Jubilarian classes perform one after
another – trying to outdo each other!
Finally, a short video on the CHSian’s
journey and the singing of the Alma Mater
Song will cap the Program.
Halina! Tayo na! Tara na!
the day, as “she” welcomes you to the
campus.
Keep on catching precious moments
with photos!
Street scenes of Escolta, Luneta, and
Quiapo have been prepared by the
Coral Jubilarians to provide the proper
ambience for your nostalgic trip to the
past. You can pose for a selfie or
groufie beside Mang Sorbetero or the
ubiquitous magtataho. Yes, vendors
will roam the campus to tempt you
with all the good eats of yesteryears –
ballot/penoy/itlog na maalat, kesong
puti, suman at iba pa – delightful local
flavors long before we became
addicted to pizza. Enjoy these treats
as you mingle with classmates and
challenge your memory with
remembering their names. This is the
right time for class photos.
A ukulele band, courtesy of the Ruby
Jubilarians, will beckon in front of the
auditorium. Enjoy the purity of the
sound of this tiny stringed instrument
before we finally assemble at 10 am
REGISTRATION8:00
PHOTO SHOOT – PER JUBILARIAN CLASS – AUDITORIUM STEPS8:30-9:30
PHOTO SHOOT – ALL JUBILARIAN CLASS –
AUDITORIUM STEPS
9:30-9:45
HOLY MASS - AUDITORIUM
CHSAF GENERAL ASSEMBLY – AUDITORIUM
10:00-11:00
11:00-12:00
LUNCH BUFFET – THE GYM12:00-2:00
PROGRAM – AUDITORIUM2:00-4:00
PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES
By: Carolina de los Santos-Guina (HS-66/AB/BSE-71)
3

4. There are ties that bind and ties
that stifle… ties that snap at the
slightest tug and ties that withstand
the test of time and weight. And
yet there is that unique tie borne
out of many years of shared
experiences in school, ephemeral
at times, that oftentimes trumps
even the bonds of family and blood
lines.
School ties take on a special
significance, sometimes
supplanting familial bonds, for
people who have up-rooted
themselves to begin a new life in a
foreign land. This is so true of the
CHSNAF (CHS North America
Foundation, Inc.) group of alumnae
– alumnae living in the US and
Canada. Many of us kept track of
one another throughout the years
of raising families and building
lives. Some took a more deliberate
way of seeking out old classmates
through social media while still
others just stumbled into each
By: Deanna Go Bio (AB-58/BSC-59)
skills and values instilled in us to
always do the right thing the right
way, prodded on by the “can-do”
spirit imbued in us to take on
challenges, we landed, surveyed the
landscape and, in time, established
ourselves as leading members in our
communities. We strived and we
thrived.
While we have embedded ourselves
and our families in the culture and
mores of our new country, we,
nonetheless, yearn for the familiar
comfort of places and people we left
behind. We look back with
gratitude to the school that
nurtured us, taught us, and
prepared us to be good human
beings. With our feet planted firmly
in one end of the earth, we extend
our hands across the miles and keep
our hearts tightly bound to the
spiritual mother who has given us
the wisdom and fortitude to live life
fearlessly with integrity and
compassion.
FEATURE
other serendipitously. Whichever
way we found each other, the
ensuing reunion is almost always
festive and joyous.
Every reunion, grand or small,
planned or spontaneous, is a cause
for celebration among us. Because
it gives us the opportunity to renew
ties, to catch up with one another’s
life, and most of all, to reminisce
about the “good ol’ days” spent in
Mendiola. Without exception, each
story, however trite, is told with
great affection and zest. Barriers of
class, course, and year come down
and every one becomes one –
united in the common bond of that
special brand of S.Sp.S. training
rooted in faith, service, and
excellence.
Our Alma Mater has reasons to be
proud of us, her daughters who left
the comfort and safety of home and
country to venture out to the
unknown. Armed with the set of
4
Order or Reserve your
Homecoming Lunch tickets now.
Call the CHSAF office: 735-5986.
Look for Cora Parco or Rei Icaro

5. By: Chi Panistante (BFA-84)
My cousin visited Dubai in February and
casually mentioned the Mama Sita Stamp
Design Competition 2015. The competition
was initiated by the Mama Sita Foundation to
preserve the legacy of Teresita “Mama Sita”
Reyes in the propagation of authentic
Philippinecuisine.
At that time, I was busy with design work for
clients. There was hardly time to do other
things. But I thought to myself, why not?
The required artwork is not too big, a little
over the size of an A3 paper. The topic is
interesting, “Championing Filipino Flavour
around the World.” The sponsor, Mama Sita, is
a food company known all over the world. And
as always with me, there has to be a clincher,
in this case, the use of the artwork in a
commemorative stamp! I loved the idea of the
final output.
5
So I designed two entries which I appropriately titled, Stir-
Pride (as in stir-fry) and Deep Pride, yes you guess it right, for
deep-fry. Corny? But hey, creativity isn’t one without fun!
Both of my entries made it to the finals, but Deep Pride was
chosen one of the four winning entries in the third
installment of the five-year series of stamps to be issued by
PHLPost.
Postmaster General Josie Dela Cruz and the Philippine Stamp
Committee approved the issuance of the stamps.
The prize was Php20,000 but that wasn’t what I was after. I
was after posterity. The hope that one day when snail mail is
completely obliterated from the face of this planet, my
winning stamp will be part of the history of PHLPost and
Mama Sita.
The 2015 winning stamp artwork.
FEATURE

6. When my classmate Linda Cosme (HS-59/
Chem-63), who is based abroad, asked me
who will play her bingo cards if she buys a
ticket, I answered that one of our school
scholars will play her cards. “Wow,” she
said jokingly, “who can beat a scholar? I will
get five tickets then.” Linda did win,
although it was a raffle prize and not any of
the cash prizes.
As Linda predicted, our scholars played
winning cards. The P10,000 prize was won
by Kristine Janelle Bautista, the P30,000 by
Mary Grace Aguilar, and the grand prize of
P50,000 by Rochelle Santiago for Marcie
Lazaro-Tolentino (HS-72) who lives abroad.
By: Virginia “Benjo” Macaso (BSChem-63)
Food and Non-food
booths
EVENTS
sandwiches, pastries, ice cream,
ladies accessories, German bread,
and Angel cookies filled up the mini
bazaar.
The organizers led by Angie Madrid
(HS-72/BSC-76) gave a big smile
upon seeing the big crowd of
alumnae with family members, nuns,
school administrators, and Facilities
personnel gathering early at the
social hall to experience a day of fun
and excitement.
The organizers of the event
thank everyone who gave support in
various ways to ensure another
successful Family Bonding Bingo Day.
A cloud of apprehension hovered over
the initial preparations for the event
because Bingo Day, Nov. 21st, fell
during the APEC weekend. We feared
that many alumnae would spend the
long weekend out of Metro Manila. So
attendance during the big day was a
pleasant surprise. Sale of vendor’s
tables for the mini-bazaar was slow in
the beginning when Kata Bellosillo (HS-
74) and Lorraine Sylianteng (HS-73)
scouted for vendors. However, interest
grew steadily up to the eve of the
event, when Asa Marco (CHSM
President, HS-71) asked for an
additional vendor’s table. Hot meals,
Third prize winnersKristine Janelle
Bautista and Guia Tanchoco-
Goduco(HS-55) with Tess Llave.
Second prize winner Mary
Grace Aguilar with Tess Llave.
Rochelle Santiago receiving the First
prize for Marcie Lazaro-Tolentino
(HS-72) from CHSAF President Tess
Llave (HS-73) and emcee Grace
Mascenon (HS-73)
Raffle prize winner
Scholars played the winningcards.
6
A happy reunion among Guia Tanchoco-Goduco (HS-55),
Remedios Ticzon-Gonzales (HS-55), Linda David-del
Rosario (HS-57), and Roxane Mendoza-Belardo (HS-55).

7. They were profusely happy to receive the modest prizes.
A raffle was held for prizes donated by members of the CHSAF
board. The raffle was followed by the distribution of loot bags
filled with simple goodies to all the sisters at the convent.
Sr. Eden S.Sp.S., head of the Provincial Leadership Team, led the
closing prayers and thanked the Holy Spirit for inspiration,
guidance, and direction and also thanked the alumnae board for
its relentless efforts and dedication to obtain acceptance of the
joint CHSAF-S.Sp.S. management of the college. With much
jubilation she led the audience in a chorus of “Ang Pasko ay
Sumapit.”
Some sisters including Sr. Angelina, Sr. Lourdes, and Sr. Eden
joined the CHSAF board members in dancing to the invigorating
music. Sr. Pilar stood up, left her cane on her chair, and danced in
front of her seat. Everyone was radiantly smiling and beaming
with inexhaustible energy as those present danced with superb
rhythm to the tunes of the ‘70s. This was one of the merriest
Christmas parties at the convent.
We invite all to join us next year not only in the Christmas party
for the sisters but in other events that will be sponsored by the
CHSAF for CHSM, all for the love of our alma mater. Please share
your talents, time, and treasure for the success of the partnership
between CHSAF and the S.Sp.S. so that CHSM can continue to
grow and train young people in truth and love coming from a
giving heart. We wish everyone a healthy, happy, blessed, and
prosperous New Year.
… continuedfrompage1
7

8. The members of the Mendiola
Consortium from Centro Escolar University,
College of the Holy Spirit Manila, La
Consolacion College, San Beda College,
and Saint Jude Catholic School took time
off from their daily routines and gathered
to pray, reflect, and celebrate Christmas on
December 2 at the College of the Holy
Spirit Manila. The event started with a
Eucharistic celebration presided over by
Rev. Fr. Vicente Rayco, SVD with Rev. Fr.
Aloysius Maranan, OSB, and Rev. Fr.
Franciscus Kwalaga. It was followed by a
short program celebrating the spirit of
oneness, community, and solidarity.
This year’s celebration
featured some of the
members of CHSM
performing Arts or IMPACT
who sang traditional and
contemporary carols to the
delight of the audience. One
of the event highlights was
the raffle where everyone
received a gift. A sumptuous
early dinner was enjoyed by
everyone. Words of gratitude
were given by Dr. Jesusa
Marco, CHSM President and
host of the event,
Rev. Fr. Aloysius Maranan, OSB, SBC
President, and Rev. Fr. Vicente Rayco, SVD,
SJCS President and Chair of the Mendiola
Consortium, with CHSM President Jesusa
Marco.
In the spirit of Laudato Si, which urges all
peoples to come together to care for the
earth, our ‘common home’, a thousand
environmental advocates participated in
the Climate Solidarity Prayer March on
November 29 (Sunday), 2015. In Manila,
various groups from religious
organizations, youth groups, parishes,
non-government organizations (NGOs),
academic institutions and civil society
gathered at 6 a.m. at three points: Central
Bank corner Vito Cruz Street, San Andres
Street corner Quirino Avenue, and in
Plaza Ferguson in front of Ermita Church.
At 7 a.m., the marchers departed toward
Rajah Sulayman Park in front of Malate
Church for an environmental awareness
program which culminated with a
concelebrated Mass presided over by
Most Rev. Broderick Pabillo, DD, Auxiliary
Bishop of the Archdiocese of Manila.
The event was part of the “Global Day of
Action for Climate Justice” seeking a
“strong and fair global climate
agreement” during the 21st Conference of
Parties (COP21) in Paris. It was organized
by the Archdiocese of Manila – Ministry
on Ecology and the Global Catholic
Climate Movement (GCCM) of the
Philippines.
The fight for climate justice continues! Let
us “heed the cry of the earth and the cry
of the poor,” and together, assert the
people’s need for land, jobs, and justice.
SCHOOL NEWS
By: Felicitas “Jeff” Vito (BSE-94)
By: Felicitas “Jeff” Vito (BSE-94)
The Eucharistic celebration was
presided over by Rev. Fr.
Vicente Rayco, SVD with Rev. Fr.
Aloysius Maranan, OSB, and
Rev. Fr. Franciscus Kwalaga.
8

9. Christmas Party of HS-65 last November 26, 2015 at Max’s Glorietta 3,
Makati with the theme Best Christmas Costume. Standing L-R: Estrella
Yoingco-Manuel, Nenita Tecson-Pilares, Lulu Maceda-delos Santos, Cielo
Basco-Ilao, Lulu Nepomuceno-del Rosario, Carina Querubin-Latosa, Dina
Casis-Barilea, Esther Jose-Capistrano, Vicky Aliño-Camarillo, and Vicki Jugo-
Litiatco.Seated L-R: Mariquita Cardenas-Lopezand Rosalou Soriano-Lamson.
Morealumniatthe Bingo
Kristine Janelle Bautista (College Scholar),
Enya Gomez (HS-53) and Jojie Alfonso (HS-64) .
Tina Leido (HS-79/AB-84), Sr. Guada and Weena
Meily (HS-79/BSBio-83)
A high school batch 78 group celebrating Christmas in style in their
winter wonderland outfit. In photo front row are: Rosbel Bunag,
Salve Magante Bautista, Caroline Martin Garcia, Giselle Millar
Melchor, Pinky Banzon del Rosario, Winnie Francisco Jaleco, Millette
Salonga, Cora Guidote. Back row: Rhea Ballesteros Manuel, Gay
Dumlao Pestano, Malu Magsalin, Rosette Santiago Hizon, Sally
Quijano Paed, Chichi Bihis, Mel Ordonez Vibal, Anne San Diego, Mary
Ann Bolinao Valenzuela, Elizabeth Cheng Magalit.
Alumni members of the Paraclete Foundation at their
December Board meeting. From L-R: Mameng Conge-Carag (HS-
49), Lucia Bacani-Quimson (HS-63/AB-67/BSC-68), Sr. Ancille,
Angie Madrid (HS-72/BSC-76), Nida Laki-Vera (HS-52), Filomena
Reyes-Carlos (HS-48/AB-51/BSE-5), Sr. Victricia (HS-53/AB-
57/BSE-64) and Baby Padilla-Sevilla(HS-58/BSHE-62).
9
HS-68camein fullforce. L-R: Yola Manding-Albano,
Toni Gabriel, Blandina Roque-Mababangloob,Bingle
Monsayac-Lim,Nely (Yaya of Pin), Pin Cacnio, Irene
Earnshaw-Reyes, and Ging Ong.

10. Celebrating Andrea Bondoc’s Birthday at the Shrine of St. Padre Pio in Brgy. San
Pedro, Sto. Tomas, Batangas. L-R: Soledad Aquino-Hernando (AB-65/BSE-66),
Sarah Hamid-Nañawa (AB-64), Andrea Bondoc (AB-65/BSE-66), Angeles Santiago
(AB-65/BSE-66), Conchita Sison-Nachura (AB-65/BSE-66), and Rosalinda Sangle-
San Vicente (BSMath-66)
At the HS-57 Christmas party held at the residence of Ody Arroyo last December 5,
2015. Seated are Maggie Ablaza-Macatulad, Carmen Contreras-Labrador, Evelyn
Sisson-Leonin, Linda David-del Rosario, Ody Gregorio-Arroyo, Niza Soriano-Vergel de
Dios, Nina Pineda-Galang, and Pilar Garcia-Aldanese; standing: Edna Itchon-
Llamanzares, Lulu Abellar-Mendoza, Liza Perez, Sylvia Amorsolo-Lazo, Juliet Tagle-
Martinez, Olive Macapinlac-Ferriols, Zita Reyes-Punzalan, Amelita Garcia-Quezada,
Consuelo Sanchez-Guerrero, Bina Barcelon-Alejandrino, Dulce Romualdez, Nani
Santos, and Nene Alandy Dy Recto
10
You may have defects, be anxious and sometimes live
irritated, but do not forget that your life is the
greatest enterprise in the world. Only you can prevent
it from going into decadence. There are many that
need you, admire you and love you.
I would like to remind you that being happy is not
having a sky without storms, or roads without
accidents, or work without fatigue, or relationships
without disappointments.
Being happy is finding strength in forgiveness, hope in
one’s battles, security at the stage of fear, love in
disagreements.
Being happy is not only to treasure the smile, but that
you also reflect on the sadness. It is not just
commemorating the event, but also learning lessons
in failures. It is not just having joy with the applause,
but also having joy in anonymity.
Being happy is to recognize that it is worthwhile to
live, despite all the challenges, misunderstandings and
times of crises.
Being happy is not inevitable fate, but a victory for
those who can travel towards it with your own being.
Being happy is to stop being a victim of problems but
become an actor in history itself. It is not only to cross
the deserts outside of ourselves, but still more, to be
able to find an oasis in the recesses of our soul. It is to
thank God every morning for the miracleof life.
Being happy is not being afraid of one's feelings. It is
to know how to talk about ourselves. It is to bear with
courage when hearing a "no". It is to have the security
to receive criticism, even if is unfair. It is to kiss the
children, pamper the parents, have poetic moments
with friends, even if they have hurt us.
Being happy means allowing the free, happy and
simple child inside each of us to live; having the
maturity to say, "I was wrong"; having the audacity to
say, "forgive me". It is to have sensitivity in
expressing, "I need you"; to have the ability of saying,
"I love you." So that your life becomes a garden full of
opportunitiesfor being happy...
In your spring-time, may you become a lover of joy. In
your winter, may you become a friend of wisdom.
And when you go wrong along the way, you start all
over again. Thus you will be more passionate about
life.
And you will find that happiness is not about having a
perfect life but about using tears to water tolerance,
losses to refine patience, failures to carve serenity,
pain to lapidate pleasure, obstacles to open the
windowsof intelligence.
Never give up .... Never give up on the people you
love. Never give up from being happy because life is
an incredibleshow.
And you are a special human being!
Being Happy
By: Pope Francis
Jubilarians met to discuss the Homecoming preparations. Seated from L-R:
Amelia Santos-Barretto (HS-46), Amy Tolosa-Duremdes (HS-71/AB-75), Ely Horca
(HS-61/AB/BSC-65), Tina Novenario-Eloriaga (HS-56), Nenita Lee-Tan (HS-56), Carol
de los Santos-Guina (HS-66/AB/BSE-71). Standing L-R: Evelyn Perez-Dumdum (HS-
66/BSC-70), Malyne Fernandez-Lorayes (HS-71), Suzette Malig-Ayson (HS-81/BFA-
85), Christy Soqueno (HS-76), Cynthia Martinez (HS-76), Micky Fenix-Makabenta
(HS-66), and Mitas Shotwell-Aguila (HS-66).

11. ADVERTISEMENTS
“Always pray to have eyes that
see the best in people,
a heart that forgives the worst,
a mind that forgets the bad,
and a soul that never loses
faith in God.”
Compliments of:
Antonietta Articona-Brion
(BSChem-67)
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SAVE THE DATE!
October 6-21, 2016, start from Manila or from the U.S.
2 weeks with Chaplain Fr. Andre Querijero, Jr., OCD
Barcelona, Montserrat, Zaragoza, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Loyola,
Oviedo, Santiago de Compostela, Braga, Porto, Fatima and Lisbon
Contact Christina Martinez-del Rosario HS’59 at
crisandel@verizon.net, or
Chikie Cruz of Travel Bounty at 02-788-5144,
or any JERICHS for preliminary details.
S P A I N a Journey of Faith
11

12. Our E-mail Connection
12
(Ed.’s Note — This section contains
messages/information received through our
e-mail address: chsaf.mla@gmail.com )
Quite a number of our alumnae live in the
Washington, New York, and Philadelphia
areas that were visited by Pope Francis
and where he made such an impact on the
thousands that welcomed him. Following
are their stories to share with us … My
Pope Francis Experience
**********
From: Henedina Pamiloza-Elizazo (HS-64),
Spring Valley, New York, Sept. 30/15:
I was in Central Park on September
25,2015 in the yellow zone handicap
section. I waited nine whole hours to get a
glimpse of our Pope. … What a beautiful
feeling indeed! I was able to capture his
passing right in front of me. I said to
myself and to everybody in my family and
to most of my friends: If I was able to
handle nine hours out in the open, I can
make it again and again. They know my
condition. I am handicapped.
**********
From: Carmencita Bengzon-Fajardo (HS-
53), Little Ferry, New Jersey, Sept. 30/15
My daughter Joy managed to get two
tickets for the Central Park visit of our
beloved Holy Father. I had debated
whether I could handle the crowd and the
long wait. People were there as early as
8:00 a.m. for the 5.30 p.m. appearance!!
The excitement was palpable as the line
patiently inched towards tight security. I
played safe and had brought my
cane/seat, a definite lifesaver for this 77-
year- old.
Positioned behind 3-people deep, with
more behind us, we would know by the
screams of the faithful if the pope mobile
was coming. The weather was beautiful,
the trees provided relief from the
sun. Suddenly a unison of OHS and AHS
filled the air again and again. A RAINBOW
had appeared and again reappeared at
least twice in the clear skies above!! That
was AWESOME! God had truly blessed us
and his faithful Servant that day! A 10-
second personal glimpse of our Pope
Francis after a six hours' wait was WELL
WORTH IT!! And I didn't even feel tired
when we got home!.
From: Ma. Elena Silva (HS-62/AB-66/BSC-
67), New York, New York, Oct. 01/15:
I had the privilege of winning the lottery to
see him at the United Nations and Central
Park in New York City. I saw him at the
United Nations in the morning and at
Central Park in the afternoon. I won two
tickets for the Central Park. and I brought
my niece who was taking her masters
degree and Princeton University. The
security in both venues was so strict. At
the United Nations, I waited for three
hours and at Central Park, we waited for
seven hours. On Thursday evening, my
friends and I also waited near his
residence after the vespers at St.
Patrick. We saw him there too.
**********
From: Ellen Young-Gomez (HS-68),
Valencia, California, October 2/15:
I have always had great respect, honor and
admiration for Pope Francis. What
impresses me most about him is his
authenticity … that he practices what he
preaches. This is symbolically represented
by his use of the humble, little Fiat, rather
than a limousine. I listened to and
watched his speech in Congress and in the
New York stadium on television. I was
overwhelmingly touched to hear how
much of his declarations are deep down
about care and love of man/womankind,
not just the poor and children. If he
opposes climate change and nuclear
proliferation, he is concerned about every
creature on earth. I am impressed with
the standing ovation he received specially
from the people, not only of Catholic faith
but from other religions and even from
atheists. He is so well loved and
respected. I feel privileged to have lived at
a time when this person walked this earth.
PopeFrancis at the United Nations.
**********
From: Ruby Sancho-Abreu (BSC-79),
Stanford, Connecticut, October 12/15
Thursday, Sept 24 was an extraordinary
day in NYC. The streets around St
Patrick's Cathedral and several
prominent hotels in midtown were
closed off … not only because of the UN
General Assembly but, more importantly,
because of Pope Francis who was coming
to town! I texted a friend at the NY
Palace to ask if she has seen any
diplomats and, being in close proximity
to St Patrick’s, about the arrangements
for the Pope.
Imagine my surprise when Brenda called
me soon after … and said she had tickets
to the St. Patrick's Welcome Parade and
can I take the afternoon off? Can I?! Of
course I immediately told my manager,
"You don't need me this afternoon,
right? Because I'm going to see the
Pope!". So, off I went for a 1:00 p.m.
meet-up with Brenda. Pope Francis was
not expected at St. Pat's until the 6:45
p.m. vesper service, but we wanted to be
close to the front!
We encountered many trials to
enter through 50th and Fifth. And we
prayed hard that we were where God
wanted us to be. And with angels
guiding our every step, the secret service
agents allowed us entry. Excitedly we
walked to the front of the barricade on St
Patrick's steps at 2:30 p.m.! No cares
that we will be standing
for hours! We passed the time by
chatting with our barricade neighbors,
sharing snacks and candy. No complaints
about waiting for so long.
Continued on page 13

13. My jaw dropped deeper than
the subway level below.
After I thanked him, he walked
away, just like that. Andrew H,
whoever you are, I think you
are an angel in disguise! And
somehow, Ray miraculously
passed the three checkpoints
like a breeze. As we snaked
through Central Park West for
another 2-3 hours, some
people gave up and dropped
out because police officers
said that we are not
guaranteed to enter the
park if we don't get to the security
checkpoint by 3:30 pm, which was 5
minutes and a thousand people away. As
we took that journey of faith through the
heart of New York City, we learned to take
chances, persevere and be hopeful, have a
will, find a way. We learned to take life's
punches and detours because, sometimes,
there are better and serendipitous plans
for us. We realized that there is goodness
in the hearts of people. In the many hours
of lining up to see him, New Yorkers were
orderly and quiet. There were genuine
smiles on faces and friendliness I had not
felt before. In the park, strangers shared
their pictures of the pope with others who
were positioned farther away. It was our
version of the festival of families. It must
have been the pope effect. In that short
period of time, I witnessed inclusion of the
excluded, unity in diversity, and an
overwhelming sense of love and peace.
We are forever grateful to experience this
opportunity. The pope's messages are
simple and universal. They resonate
through all creeds and ethnicities. He
delivered. This pope star rocked!
Be part of our E-Mail Connection… send
your comments, news, messages from/to
classmates and teachers to
chsaf.mla@gmail.com
Our E-mail Connection
lottery for the golden tickets, We've always
just taken a chance see the popes who
visited NYC, without attending any of the
main events. I know most of the Manhattan
streets by heart, and we've had successful
accidental close encounters each time—
Pope John Paul II in1995, Benedict XVI in
2008, and Francis on 5th Ave., yesterday.
The agenda to leave home bright and early
failed. Our day couldn't be any worse,
beginning with car trouble; then, having to
wait in a long line for gas in the middle of a
workday, and, then, taking the slowest train
to the city, thus missing out on the plan to
see the pope at the 9/11 memorial site. We
quickly grabbed a bite before rushing to
take the A train uptown to the West Side for
Central Park, next on his schedule.
Meanwhile, friends were already posting
selfies at the park, donning their pope T-
shirts and happily waving the yellow and
white flags. We came three hours after
event organizers started letting the droves
of people with the golden tickets in. We
were already resigned to the fact that we'll
just have to wait outside of the procession
route and catch him somewhere else,
perhaps after he comes from the school in
Harlem or on his way to or from Madison
Square Garden.
Either we had impeccable timing or we
were meant to be blessed by the pope
because of our jobs - taking care of the
elderly and special needs children, the two
groups closest to his heart. While waiting
behind a police barricade with a cohort of
sad non-ticket holders, watching exuberant
ticket holders pass by, a man suddenly
stopped, smiled and handed me his ticket!
At 6:40 p.m., there was a roar from crowds
along Fifth Ave. and then there was the
Pope mobile! Oh my, what
jubilation! Pope Francis at last! He
seemed luminous, wearing the simple
white vestments and in the white Pope
mobile. In my excitement, I didn't notice
Cardinal Dolan sitting on the back bench as
all my attention was on the Pope. I felt
goose bumps to see Pope Francis up
close! We were right near the speakers; so,
we could hear the services inside the
Cathedral. We kept our place and
stayed to have the complete experience of
Pope Francis. He spoke with such
eloquence and conviction in a soft spoken
way.
So, my friend and I were there to greet
(more like scream) Pope Francis, and we
were there to wave good night to him. A
truly memorable event! Oh yes, I needed
to take Advil the next morning. I felt sore
from the hours of standing but it was well
worth it!
Viva IL Papa!!!
**********
From: Antonietta Dizon (HS-59), Cliffside
Park, New Jersey, Oct. 20/15:
Pope Francis' visit to New York City last
September 24-25 would had been another
opportunity for me to see His Holiness in
person. Sadly, I was out of town; but I was
able to follow the Pope's journey on TV.
Looking back, though, I was warmed by the
memory of a previous event involving Pope
Francis. It was in May of 2013 in Rome. It
was Pentecost Sunday. Our tour group
was escorted from the Sistine Chapel to St.
Peter's Square. There were thousands of
pilgrims. I was surprised to hear that Pope
Francis was to celebrate holy mass at the
Square. I saw the Pope! During holy mass,
doves were hovering above. I was
reminded of dear HGC!
**********
From: Rica Vizarra-Villonco (HS-79),
Princeton, New Jersey, Oct. 16/15:
We are fans of a pope star!
Millions applied for tickets to see the pope
in Central Park. No, we were not one of
the lucky 80,000 who won the parish
A precious
ticket …
a precious
chanceto see
the Pope!
Catchingsightof Pope Francis … well worth
the many hours of waiting.
Ricaand Ray
Villonco…
all ready for the
longwait for the
Pope.
13
Continued from page 12

14. Through our "Alumnae Prayer Community," let all of us,
alumnae-sisters, pause for a minute and storm heaven
with our prayers for:
- Lilia G. Tansinsin (HS-55), who was recently hospitalized
due to a mild heart attack;
- the speedy recovery through the help of therapy
sessions of Letty Litonjua-Mendoza, mother of Eunice
Anne M. Blanco (HS-76), Marie Janelle M. Reyes (HS-77),
Margaret Mary M. de Marcaida (HS-81), and Noreen
Mary M. Gener (HS-82);
- Enya F. Gomez (HS-53), who is recovering from a fall that
she suffered in her home;
- Imelda Ramirez-Ostrea (HS-55/BSChem-59), for
complete recovery from a recent surgical procedure.
Send us your prayer requests and let our "Alumnae Prayer
Community" gather through this section in His name for
you. Call Rei at Tel. No. 735-5986 or e-mail us at
chsaf.mla@gmail.com.
Oct. 08 - Frenesi C. Exconde (HS-61), sister of Darlene E. Milo
(HS-68);
Oct. 12 - Grace Powell-Joseph (HS-48), sister of Violet P.
Merlo (d), HS-48, Winifred P. Mueller (HS-50), and
Eleanor P. Esteban (HS-52/BSE-56);
Oct. 30 - Angeles Tioseco-de Leoz, sister of sister of Soledad
S. Tioseco (d), AHE-38, Milagros T. Cadiz (HS-44), and
Sister Mary Remedios (Perla) Tioseco, S.Sp.SAP (d), HS-
41;
Nov. 10 - Teofilo V. Tanjuatco, brother of Victoria (HS-50)
and Theresita (HS-52/AA-54);
Nov. 21 - Dolores Nuñez-Firmacion (HS-42), sister of Benita
N. Maronilla (d), HS-44, Luz N. Dungo (HS-50), and
Apolonia N. Nery (HS-53);
Nov. 22 - Ma. Mediatrix O. Abaya (HS-66/AB-70), sister of
Corazon (d), HS-54/AB/57/BSE-58, Ma. Cristina (HS-
57/ABA-59), Ma. Concepcion (HS-63/AB-67), and Ma.
Purificacion A. Almeda (d), HS-61/AB-65;
Dec. 17 - Ma. Thelma S. Medida (AB/BSC-71), sister of
Asuncion M. Chin (AM-65/BM-67) and Ma. Teresa M.
Williams (BFA-79);
Dec. 22 - Teresita V. Jose (HS-56/BSE-60), sister of Anita (HS-
50), Angelina J. Sim (d), HS-54/BSPharm-59, Eloisa J.
Gatmaitan (HS-61/AB-65), and Esther J. Capistrano (HS-
65) and former grade school teacher at CHSM during the
sixties;
Jan. 01 - Julita R. Legarda (HS-53), sister of Carmen L.
Nibungco (d) HS-50;
Jan. 04 - Sister Esther Maria (Concepcion Cuvin), S.Sp.S.
(BFA-71), sister of Sister Mary Lucy (Mercedes),
S.Sp.SAP (BSChem-57); Sister Esther Maria was a
CHSM faculty member of the Fine Arts
department from 1972-1978 and its Dean from 1978-
1992;
Congratulations to . . .
14
- Our alumni who passed the following board exams for:
Licensure for Nurses, last May 2015:
Angelica Marie D. Algenio (BSN-12), Baieileen A. Alid
(BSN-11), and Ma. Juvilisa B. Dioneda (BSN-13;
Professional Teachers (Secondary), last March 2015:
Rica D. Buitizon (BSE-14), and Lorlie Janyn B. Tuscano
(BSE-14);
Medical Technologists, last March 2015:
BSMT graduates, Stephanie D. Abad, Jessica Patrice D.
Aliman, Janine D. Ayaso, Ma. Arielle Louise Bustos, Billy
Joe A. Cacho, Patrick B. Calaunan, Michaelle D. Cuevas,
Ven Kristine L. Dettabali, Janessa May M. Garcia, Lynnon
Omie C. Gonzaga, Kathleen Ann L. Mario, Marinelle M.
Mercado, Jayvi Ann O. Pua, Mae Jhoanalen A. Sagales,
and Amiethyst B. Tubo and Mary Grace Michelle D.C.
Fernando (BSMT-04);
- Our newest alumni – who completed their master’s
degrees from our Graduate School last Nov. 28, 2015
Into Eternal Life
Prayer Corner
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.
- Henry Ford