Epifanio Ugalino

by MVP

Another son of Magsingal, Epifanio Ugalino, returned to his Creator just a few hours before the turn of the new year.  We featured Tang Panyong as MVP's notable Magsingaleno some years ago.

We offer our deepest condolences to the immediate and extended family members and friends.  May he rest in peace.

Read featured article about Tang Panyong's inspiring story.

Farewell to Elias Rol, a Notable Magsingaleno

by MVP

Tang Elias on his 100th birthday

Elias Rol, one of MVP's featured Notable Magsingalenos, returned to his Creator at age 104.  We featured Tang Elias on his 100th birthday, and I know many of us are touched by his story and the gift of long life.

To all his loved ones, our deepest sympathies.

Visit featured article about Tang Elias and his 100th birthday celebrations

A eulogy to my Uncle Ikko

by Mario Ugalino

Naimbag a rabii tayo amin Kakabsat, Kakabagyan, Gagayyem ken Kakailian! Good evening family and friends!

For those of you who don’t know me, siak ni Mario.

Francisco Ugalino Sr was my Uncle! I am honored and appreciate the opportunity to eulogize my Uncle this evening. And it is so great to see you all here tonight!

Francisco Ugalino Sr was born on August 17, 1918 in Magsingal, Ilocos Sur, Philippines to the proud parents of Gregorio and Teodora Ugalino. He was the second child of 5 children consisted of Bonifacio Sr, Francisco, Epifanio,Juana and Faustina. He attended school and completed the 7th grade, which is equivalent to graduating high school here in the US.

He later met the love of his life and married Auntie Maria Urubio on April 3, 1940. He joined the Philippine and US Army during World War II. During that time, Uncle and Auntie had 1 daughter Manang Enriqueta and later would have 4 sons, Pedro, Francisco Jr, Candido and Tereso.

Mr Oderico Garcia

By Vic A


As a tribute to Mr Oderico Garcia, I am re-posting the first feature article we posted on the inaugural issue of MVP.  Last week, Mr Garcia joined his Creator and I know that I speak for everyone who has known him, that he will be greatly missed.  

Mr O some time in 2007

If there is one teacher who is most widely known especially among SWI alumni, I would put my money on Mr. Oderico Dario Garcia or Mr O, as he is more popularly referred to.  His teaching stint spans over four decades and it’s not uncommon to hear that parents of Mr O’s younger students were also his students in earlier teaching years.

When we think about noteworthy Magsingalenos, we almost always look outwardly.  We tend to look for those who moved out of our small town and made it big elsewhere.  We sometimes forget the people who decided to stay back and help in the noble job of community building.  I must admit, even I, am as guilty as sin when it comes to top-of-mind awareness about the great achievements and contributions of many people who have chosen to stay put in Magsingal.