by Allan Dabu
How do you write a tribute for person whom you considered one of the most important person in your life? When I was asked to write this article for him, I did not hesitate and said yes. But it’s more than a week now, my deadline had passed, but still I cannot compose even a single paragraph. My thoughts are just everywhere. I don't know. Maybe, the person I am offering this tribute have such a magnanimous personality that words may not be enough to quantify his magnanimity.
Rev. Fr. Alfredo G. Guerrero a.k.a. Fr Bong of the Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Joseph in Cubao, Quezon City -- who wouldn't know such a man and a crowd-drawer? Everyone looks forward to his mass. The parish office would often receive inquiries asking his time of mass on Sundays. Special occasions like Christmas, Holy weeks and fiestas are always filled to the rafters. His homilies are filled with anecdotes which most of the time hilarious. His recollections and retreats are heartwarming. Liturgies are alive and full of passion because of him.
He is also a builder and a visionary. Altars evoking the splendor of the church were erected and dedicated. Churches take on physical improvement, new school facilities are built and added.
He is a benefactor to many. He provided scholarship to a lot of students, enabling them to finish school through his generosity, including yours truly. He is an educator, thus, he knows how important education is to have a good future. And for this, many are grateful to him.
But above all of these, he is a father to me. I always look up to him for wisdom. He has this great gift of wisdom and counseling. He knows the right thing to do at the right time. Just like a father to his child, he would guide you and walk with you -- his hands holding yours, until such time that you can walk on your own before he will let you go.
Twenty five years have passed since he was ordained, and it’s been almost 18 years since I was "adopted", Fr. Bong will always be my father, he will always be our ‘Itay’.
