I belong to a family of 8 to which I am the 7th – including my parents would make it 10. We were all born and raised in Balatoc Mines Itogon, Benguet. Life has been easy and simple then since everything was provided. Yes, all Benguet Mining Corporation employees including my dad who worked as Security Guard were given the privilege of free shelter, free utilities, and water supply. Well, it did not last long since my dad had been part of the retrenchment program of the company. The world had turned upside down for my parents since they had not anticipated that to happen. Then it was decided to move to the city. There was no other option as our eldest sister and my two other brothers were in college back then.

It has always been an urgent dream for the family to acquire a house and lot. But because we were financially limited, we have been a certified NPA (No permanent address). Thanks to kind hearts that helped us in transferring from one house to another. Our foremost residence was at Pucay Village, Marcos Hi-way. Two years after, we moved to Quezon Hill, and then to San Roque Village. After another year, to Engineers Hill, and then to Tip-top , Ambuklao Road. And finally, to our present address Aurora Hill.

Reflecting on those tough times of moving and struggling to cope with our temporal needs, I appreciated more the goodness of the Lord. He never really abandoned us. Everyday has been a miracle. In fact, I have never felt we were homeless. Because during those times when we almost found ourselves separated and temporarily adopted by other relatives, my parents stood strong in raising us all together no matter what.

My family is my real home. It is a place where true love begins. I will be forever grateful!

At present, were bound to transfer to our new house at Pula, Tuba Benguet. Hopefully, the permanent one