TWO YEARS have passed since my beloved Mira returned to her Creator, and yet, the light she brought into our lives continues to shine with quiet grace.
Mira lived her life with a rare blend of brilliance and humility, strength and tenderness. As a pediatrician, she cared for her young patients with the same devotion and warmth she gave our three children — Trisha, Dondi, and Frannie.
To generations of families in Alabang and beyond, she was more than a doctor. She was “Tita Doctor,” a constant, healing presence whose wisdom and gentle hands brought comfort, and often laughter, even in the most trying times.
In the early days of our marriage — two idealistic students dreaming big — Mira had just finished her board exams while I wrestled with law school and final exams. Somehow, we made it work.
In fact, “somehow, we made it work” would become the refrain of a marriage that endured for more than five decades — through babies and campaigns, hospital rounds and house calls, home-cooked meals and ballroom Mondays. Mira led me in dance as gracefully as she led me through life.
Even amid adversity, she found ways to love deeply. Mira endured a heart-breaking illness in her final years, one that stole her voice, her mobility, and her memories. And yet, I will always remember the day she looked toward the television and mouthed, unmistakably, “popcorn.” A simple word, but in it, a whole world of shared meaning — proof that even when words fade, love speaks clearly.
One of our proudest moments came not in a grand ballroom or a church filled with guests, but in a quiet condo with our closest family, where we renewed our vows. Mira received Holy Communion for the first time in years. I believe she knew exactly what was happening — just as she knew 50 years earlier, standing in front of the altar of St. Thérèse, that our story would be one for the ages.
I am honored to have been the husband of Dra. Bunye, my partner in public service and private joys, in quiet moments and extraordinary miracles. In loving her, and caring for her, I found not only purpose — but God’s presence.
The certificate of our renewed vows bore the line: “Valid for another 50 years.” I smile now, knowing that love like Mira’s has no expiration. She remains with us, in every quiet morning, in every laugh of our loved ones , in every life she touched.
Thank you, Mira, for loving all of us so completely. And thank you, Lord, for the priceless gift of her life./PN
