Tiya Meling's 90th birthday

Not everyone gets to reach 90. These days, it is even difficult to reach 80. But our dear aunt, Milagros Lago Salimbangon fondly called Tiya Meling, still feeling strong and healthy, did and the whole family gathered to celebrate it!

When Tiya Meling turned 90 last September 8, was wearing a Pitoy Moreno terno in golden hues. Msgr. Boy Alesna celebrated the Thanksgiving Mass with Fr. Jim Gorre and Fr. Dodong Ullamot. In his homily, Msgr. Boy said: "As we grow older, we grow wiser each day, finding pleasures in all the things we do. And let's not forget our past - which means caressing our friends and relatives, and thanking God for the gift of life!" She was happy to see all her seven children (minus Ophelia Cue who already joined her Creator), 39 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren.

Her children with their families are: Ophelia and Jose Cue - Molly and Angel Concepcion (Odele and Kyle); Richard - (Kiara, Dawn, Joshua); Sandra and Noli Ignacio (Gabby, Chuck, Natasha and Emmanuel); Drs. Helen and Danny Milla (David, Deborah, Dorothea, Daniel); Grace and Joey Zabarte (Kaleb, Rebecca, Jeremiah); Lito and Roselyn (Sophia, Tiffany, Juliana, Samuel); and Paul. Benhur and Janice: Daphne (Miguel and Nina); Elton and Cathy (Luisa, Martina, Nathan); Paolo, Francis, Martin, Junior, Audrey); Cesar and Fely - Chad and May (Gabby and Tammyra); Ken and Rhoanne (Kara and Zach); Lauren Cesaree; Mariquita and Carlos Yeung - Carla, Martin and Jewelle; Danilo and Ulpa - Dhanisse and Dan Paul; Edwin and Edna - Gisela, Harold, Adrian and Justin; Freddie - John, Michael, Edward and Bianca.

Tiya Meling whose penchant for travel has not wavered until now despite pains on her knees, still wants to travel. Having traveled to the US, Canada, Jerusalem, twice to Europe and her latest, a Mediterranean cruise with the whole family headed by Mariquita and Carlos, still hopes to go with the group on a Scandinavian cruise next year.

What really made this Octogenarian look young is her love for singing. Because her favorite is "Usahay", her children and the extended family including special guests Gov. Gwen Garcia and Vice Mayor Mike Rama went on stage to join the group in singing the song for the festejada.

Tiya Meling also remembered her beloved late husband, Tiyo Martin. She was even heard saying that her happiness would have been complete if "he were here with me today!"