PAPY

[February 19, 2016]

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. . . .” (Philippians 1:3)

Among my so many acquaintances and personal friends, not quite a few had reviled us—jokingly or not, I was not sure then—right upon learning that I am called “Papy” by my children. Well, here’s its legend, it’s my personal tribute to and in lifetime remembrance of the venerable the late Jose G. Abdallah, one of government service’s “a few good men.”

Actually, to be frank about it, the modifier “good” is an absolute understatement. The man was far better than that, as he was one of the brightest and the excellent.

By far, his children Dr. J, who opted to use an Abdallah’s brain in medicine, and pretty boys Jet and Lipoy still remain the only ones in this life I heard calling their father “Papy,” no, not even in fiction until today. My first-born Caleb was just starting with words when Judge Abdallah passed away, thenceforth, with carrot and stick with me, I made sure that “Papy” would be one of the sweetest words he would first pronounce clearly.

The incomparable Judge Abdallah was one if not the most well-respected judge in the history of our local courts, take it from me. And I felt so blessed for having the chance to work under his tutelage, I was, still am, so proud to be his protégé, and always will be.

Although from deserving promotions he was severally bypassed by Padre Faura’s gods—well, I blamed it to his non-worship of men of politics—still, he never learned to hold a grudge. And best of all, when it comes to the administration of justice, proceedings’ conduct and wisdom to lodge, he always made sure he’d show this so-called neutrality of an impartial judge.

I was there when the late Congressman Raul Gonzales, dubbed by some local media as “Da King,” then merely wearing short-sleeved polo shirt clothing, appeared in the court for and on behalf of his no-show son-lawyer to manifest something. But Judge Abdallah interrupted and did no more entertain him and minced no words in reminding “Da King” that a lawyer not in proper dress code would mean no personality in court, or simply, lacking decorum, thus barred from court proceedings.

To Ma’am Jo and the rest of the amiable Abdallah Family—Dr. J especially—for eternal kindness and boundless compassion for me and my house, I thank you so much today. But I thank you more for being a continuing legacy of one of the greatest pride of our judiciary: my great mentor in law and order, my cherished friend, your dearly beloved “Papy.”