Around these tables, chairs were spread upon which were seated a motley crowd of men and women, some in bright shirts of yellow, green and blue.  Others were standing, wearing barong tagalongor the white uniforms characteristic of those in the medical profession.  Farther to the back, some men and women in blue police uniforms can also be seen, patiently standing, looking towards the center.  All were listening and watching intently as the man clad in black bicycle shorts and yellow sports shirt talk about the importance of families sharing a meal together.

This is what is evident to the casual observer.  Yet, for those who are familiar to the town’s personalities can tell that this motley crowd is composed of the men and women who comprise the Laoac LGU listening to the Town Father, the Honorable Mayor Silverio D. Alarcio delivering his message.

Following the meal, there were talks from municipal employees whose spouses are working abroad, describing the difficulties of husbands and wives not being together to raise their children; and where, even the sharing of one meal could be a luxury.  This was followed by a gift-giving portion and greetings for September celebrants.  Capping the events was a series of relay games with an array of prizes all set atop another table.

“Masayang maging kabahagi ng Laoac LG”’, one has been overheard as saying.  “Kasi dito, parang isang pamilya talaga tayo . . . may mga di pagkakaunawaan din at maraming trabaho pero magaan ang lahat kasi nga pamilya tayo.”

Amen to that!