The day I stood as ninong at a wedding

Just recently I became a ninong to Jon and Java, a beautiful couple all set to start their own family and their own real estate business together. Jon is the son of my good friends, lawyers Paul and Dot Gancayco. Paul was a business partner, while Dot, a former soloist of the UP Concert Chorus, was actually managed by me several years back. The groom, Jon Gancayco, was five years old when we first met at the launch of his mom as Backroom’s singing lawyer. After Dot’s successful solo concert, she was blessed with another gift, the coming of her daughter Mika — for whom I happily became a baptismal godfather.

Fast forward to today. Jon, now 30, and a successful Pertua Oil businessman, is ready to start a new life with the love of his life — Java. Mika, 23, graduated magna cum laude (BSBA) at UP Diliman, and is now on her second year at the UP College of Law. The beautiful wedding was held at the St. Michael the Archangel Parish in BGC. Joining me in attesting to the validity of their sacred marriage as principal sponsors were Vice President Leni Robredo, Sen. Koko Pimentel, Sen. Sonny Angara, Rep. Geraldine Roman, Justice Marvic Leonen, Bataan Gov. Albert Garcia, Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian, Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, UP President lawyer Danny Concepcion, Vallejo City Councilor Dr. Rozzana Verder-Aliga, lawyer Ernestine Villareal-Fernando, lawyer Virgilio Farcon, Remedios Cabiling, Juliana Chua, Victoria Gancayco, Letty Lee, Jocelyn Nolasco, Engr. Efren Gancayco, Justice Melchor Sadang, Fai Wong Sze and Imelda Sze.

 Every detail about the wedding was “perfection.” From the exquisite decor, to the heartwarming ceremony and the stylish reception that offered sumptuous buffet and overflowing drinks. Java walked down the aisle as violinist Merjohn Lagaya and Aliw Awards’ Hall of Famer UP Concert Chorus performed the bridal march. Like the guests in attendance, the ninongs and ninangs were all deeply touched, as the beautiful bride made her way to her groom. We were all thrilled when Jon declared during their exchange of vows that “as I wake up in the morning, my day is already complete because Java is on my side.” We also cheered, as he promised to change the diapers of their future babies, to the delightful applause of everyone in the church.

 The grand reception was held at The Marquis in BGC. Although I was ushered to the table for principal sponsors, I felt that I should also be receiving the guests together with Dot and Paul... “feeling family member.” And why not? I was now a second parent to both the Gancayco children. Some people treat godparenthood as a mere social obligation, a lead role to be played in a major event. And while it will always be an honor to be chosen as ninong, godparenthood actually goes beyond getting all dressed up, attending the special event and just giving gifts.

I have always believed that ninongs and ninangs have a responsibility to guide the godchildren to the right path. For me, being “Ninong Boy” means providing advice and giving support to my godchildren. When Dot informed me that Jon and Java wanted me to be part of their new journey, I was honored. Dinner was immediately arranged so that Java and I could be introduced. It was a great opportunity to get to know the couple well and share with them my own experiences. Dinner was great and conversation even greater.

I have seen Jon grow up. I met him when he was only five and back then, he had always been a very smart boy. I cannot help but feel nostalgic now that he is an adult and about to enter a very important phase in his life. The Gancaycos have always treated me like family, and my role as Jon and Java’s ninong made that bond even stronger.

To Jon and Java, my sincerest congratulations and best wishes. Know that I will always be here for you. I may not have the best solutions to your future problems, but I will always listen and respect your insights. And yes, I will always have an opinion, and you have no choice but to listen, because as you know, your Ninong Boy loves to talk.

To the proud parents Paul and Dot, congratulations for having a loving son like Jon. Thank you for trusting me to be a second parent to both your children and to your new daughter-in-law, Java. Thank you.