Jose "Pempe" Suarez Manalo

Dear Dad, When I first met you, you were warm, so charming, and you had a big smile. I was nervous about meeting you and Mom but you instantly made me feel at ease. You had so many stories! I felt like you wanted me to know more about you and that made me feel welcome. All the time we spent together since that first meeting would be a moment of good stories and good food. You’re the reason I’ve eaten at the original Ma Mon Luk and your favorite restaurant at the dampa. I remember being invited to a birthday party at Leighton Place and you had lechon Cebu. It was my first taste of authentic lechon Cebu and until today it is the only lechon I will eat. I enjoyed all our meals together, simple or grand, because you made the moment special. You always had a funny story, and you were always ready to share a laugh with everyone. I know that your life has been challenging since you were a young boy, and I know that all that you have achieved in life you worked very hard for, and I admire that. You showed courage, perseverance, and generosity despite the circumstances. But I think what truly makes you a great man is your devotion to Mom and the rest of the family. I see the same in Phillip now and I must thank you for being such a great dad to him. I’m sorry the last few months were so hard for you. And I’m truly sorry I couldn’t be here today. But I’m grateful you are no longer in pain. Rest well, Dad, and I hope someday we will meet again. Thank you for being so kind to me and for loving me as a daughter. I will miss you, thank you for everything, and I love you forever. Rica