2 Responses

1. Today, we pause to celebrate and honor a life lived completely on its own terms: Romeo G. Kahanding.

   Romeo was someone who truly understood the art of living fully. He didn’t just pass through the years—he owned them, moving through the world with purpose, joy, and an unshakeable sense of self. He lived the way he saw fit, staying true to his own values and making choices guided by his own heart.

   That kind of authenticity and courage is rare. It leaves a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him, showing us all what it looks like to embrace every moment and build a meaningful, vibrant life.

   Maligayang kaarawan, Daddy. I hope that I have made you proud. Maraming salamat for life, and thank you for showing me how to truly live it. Here’s to a remarkable Daddy and a life beautifully lived.

   Joshua and Mark say hi. Salamat, Daddy.

2. Hello, Dad.

   Every 29th of September, we continue to celebrate your birthday, just as we have always done. For so many years, we would visit your resting place, clean your grave, bring flowers, offer our prayers, and simply spend a little time with you. Things are different now because you are farther away, and your remains are now resting in a columbarium, but distance will never change the way we remember you, love you, and celebrate you.

   Being your youngest daughter has always been such a privilege. Growing up with you as my dad is genuinely one of the best parts of my life. I learned so much from you—not just about life, but about strength, love, patience, and hope. I got to know your little quirks, your ways, and all the things that made you the dad that I knew and loved. These are memories I will always treasure and carry with me wherever life takes me.

   I am especially grateful that God allowed me to be with you until your very last breath. Taking care of you during those days was never something I considered a burden. It was my way of loving you, the way you had loved and cared for me throughout my life. I only hope that during those moments, you felt safe, loved, and at peace. Being there with you until the end is something I will always hold close to my heart, and I will forever be grateful that I was given that time with you.

   Your physical body may no longer be here with us, but your love and the life you shared with us continue to live on. You remain a part of our stories, our memories, our family, and the person I have become. I miss you every single day, Dad. There are still so many moments when I wish I could see you, talk to you, or simply have you here with us again.

   Today, the whole family sends you our warmest birthday greetings and prayers filled with love. Rina and Nadine are celebrating you and remembering you with so much love, and Ramil too, who loves you dearly.

   I hope you are resting peacefully in God’s loving arms, reunited with Mommy and surrounded by His everlasting love. Wherever you are, I hope you know that you are still remembered, still prayed for, and still deeply loved.

   Happiest birthday, Dad!

   I love you so much. I miss you every day, and I always will.

   Love,
   Che.