Page 9 - May 2018 - December 2018 Issue

It is with great sadness that I write this article in memory of Chona Rosanna E.
Banzuela who passed away last May 9, 2018. Chona and I worked together for
almost 21 years. Chona is a civil engineer by profession but worked in Supply
Chain Management as Procurement Head of Metro Pacific Tollways South.

We share common things. Particularly, with what is inside our bags. We share the
three P’s – “panyo” (handkerchief), “payong” (umbrella), and “pamaypay” (fan).

Chona is a beautiful woman inside and out. She fought valiantly against cancer.
She hid her physical struggles behind her sweet smile. I remember the last time I
visited her in Manila Sanitarium Hospital. I wanted to keep her spirits up so I told
her that she would be ok and not to worry. We hugged and cried together.

If there is anything, I’ve learned from the passing of my friend, Chona, this is to
make time for the people you care about. Even only for a few minutes whether it
be a text or phone call. Capture the memories through tons of selfies and
groupies. Last of all, make as many memories as you can together.

Losing a dear friend like Chona created a vacuum in my life. I am thankful for the
time I shared with Chona but I will truly miss a true and loving friend.

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