Most circles of friends have something in common. As the old saying goes, “Tell me who your friends and I tell you who you are.” This is proven many times. We intend to look for friends who possess the same characteristics with ours. And the most important thing is you have the same interests. But never in my case. I have gained friends from different places and most of them are exactly my opposite. I may sound unconvincing but believe me it is true. Theirs are outgoing, love social gatherings and outspoken individuals. They love to express what they feel and say what they want to say. When I first met them, I feel slightly uncomfortable being a homebody and silent person. But things came out smoothly and positively. To my surprise, I was accepted with open arms and sweet smiles.

            I am referring to the Tabata Group of San Esteban (TGSE), a group of young individuals whom I describe in just four words – Transparent, Gay, Sociable and Expressive. They are fun to be with and never had a dull moment with any of them. You start to feel good whenever they have their own stories to share. Just merely listen and learn a lot from them. They may not be all professionals but you can depict good lessons in their stories.

            I love San Esteban – my second home for five years now. Never did I imagine before that I would learn to love the place and the people – where everything is far different from my birth land. I used to live a simple life with strict parents and less social activities. I never expected myself to be in an environment where people are highly modernized and liberal – minded. But what made me stay that long and even called my second home? It is simple because the people in this small town are warm and friendly. I have attended some gatherings (which I never did in my hometown) and witnessed how close the town folks are to one another.

            My five years stay in San Esteban is full of fun and laughters. I may not be totally adjusted with their way of living but I have learned to embrace, understand and respect the things they have – whether good or bad. I was overwhelmed with so much joy and happiness for I found a second home – in the heart of my new friends. 

This article was sent by my good friend Genevieve C. Balino from Victory, Salcedo, Ilocos Sur. We met sometime in the year 1997 when she was one of the members of the Board of Judges in the Little Miss San Esteban Quest through my contemporary in the TGSE, Maricon Espejo, the TGSE chief at that time. Vie is an AB Journalism Graduate at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Manila and having her Masters in Public Administration at the University of Northern Philippines, Vigan City. She works as a Project Staff at the Office of the Governor of Ilocos Sur.

The month of May in San Esteban was observed predominantly by birthday celebrations. That is why I thought of enquiring to some friends who visit our town, stay and enliven the noble spirit of San Esteban about how they feel.  This piece of writing gives the impression that our town is completed by the people who live in it and make it exquisite and suitable to settle. A bequest that makes it distinct from the entire province.

Belated Happy Birthday to Teresa Soliva, May 3, Dr. Ben Barcelona, May 7, Sonny Gines, May 10, Lubby Vergara, May 19, my virtuous friend forever, ZAN, May 21 also to Manong Dick Edralin and Manong Mario Ea, Ta Rollie Ramirez, May 23 and Lauro Follero Jr., Manong Raffy Taguiam, May 28, Ma’am Nora Ayson, May 29 and to our dear Municipal Treasurer, Angelita Arce, May 31. These are my late addition to this month wherein I attended most of these events.