The Old Sumangil House

The Old Sumangil House

The 103-year old Sumangil House, located at the corners of Mabini (where the great Apolinario Mabini was captured) and Mendoza Streets, Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija.

This is where our great Lolos and Lolas, and beloved relatives grew up..

(courtesy of Uncle Ray Soberano)

Uncle Rogelio 'Gil' Sumangil

I received a text message yesterday morning from my sister-in-law while i was driving with my wife on our way to her office in Makati. It stated, "Huwag kayong mabibigla, Uncle Gil is gone... he met a vehicular accident last night..." Ok. I was shocked... I had to park and made a call to the province (Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija).

Just two days ago prior to his (my Uncle) tragic death, I remember telling my wife about him, also on our way to Makati. I was telling her about who among my relatives I would consider I was closest with during my childhood... I bragged about Uncle Gil.

Uncle is the youngest of my father's siblings. When I was about 6 to 10 years old, I remember Uncle tagging me along when he goes out to buy something at the town proper, together with my cousin, Marcos (Sumangil). One thing I will never forget was when he bought a t-shirt for me with the song "Let Me Try Again" lines as its design in front. That song I will always remember, too in my entire life...

Every year, our clan reunite together to celebrate the Christmas season. This year, we intend to make it on the 23rd at Auntie Sylvia's house, my father and Uncle Gil's sister. But with the turn of events, everybody will meet tomorrow at his wake.

I just hope, after this year, Christmas will still be the same.

We hope...