RIP Premee

Mosac called me last night. She mentioned a name of a classmate which I didn't recognize. She said the classmate died in Guam where he lived and worked; and that the wake was in their ancestral house in Bgy. Tabucan. I went over the yellowing pages of the high school commencement program which Haydee (now residing in the US) entrusted to me, before she returned to the US. His name was there but I still couldn't put a face to the name. I don't remember him at all.

Later, I learned that the classmate was popularly known as Premee. He died after a massive stroke. He left behind his wife; and a son from a previous relationship.

I bought the usual mass card, to carry the name of the CNCHS Class, and went to their house after lunch today. I was with my sister, as she was also a classmate of Premee's younger sister.

I met his wife, his sister, and a brother - all just arrived from the US. And I saw his happy picture. But I still could not recognize him. He looked old. He couldn't be a classmate. But later, his sister explained that he stayed in high school longer than anyone.

Then they mentioned he was once a jeepney driver when he was in the Philippines. His father was based in Guam and his family was comparatively well-off. He was driving their family-owned PUJ.

Then I remembered there was once a chinky-eyed driver who was always smiling and happy. And popular with the beautiful lady passengers. And his barkadas were Colay, Zari, and the other pretty girls in my class.

Yes, he was Premee. His neighbors said he was nicknamed Premee because he was a premature baby.

Interment is at the Cabatuan Catholic Cemetery on August 14.

Rest in peace, Premee.

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