Argosy S. Nazareno
Dodong Clovis
In 1985, Papa published his first collection of poems, entitled “For My Friends” by then Artdom Arts & Prints managed by our close friend and relative, Rene Eune P. Ponte. They used the Letterpress way since printers were still nonexistent and were able to produce only fifty copies. Presently, we are able to re-publish it and the public would read it once again.
Papa was regarded as a “man of the masses”. He was an award-winning writer and a three-time Carlos Palanca Awardee. He had lots of friends that came from all walks of life. From activists to government officials, he was regarded as a friend and an ally. Most of all, he was a loving father to his children.
His children did not feel jealous even if he spent most of his time traveling to far-flung barangays because they knew that he was doing it all for the best interest of the people. He may be addressing their concerns or was sharing stories and laughter. We all know that certain issues always come out through casual drinking sessions.
Most people believe that Papa is a maverick but one thing is certain, whatever he did was for the people. He wanted to protect the rights of ordinary citizens, as evident in his authored resolutions and ordinances as a three (3) time councilor of the Municipality of Loon.
Until now, we meet different people who share their experiences and stories with my father. Every time they share their memories of him, we somewhat feel that he’s still very much alive, not physically but in the hearts of the people who were influenced and touched by his character. They always remind us that someone should replace or follow Papa. And we always reply that no one can replace him. No one can match his ideas and skills. All we can do is continue what he has done for the people.
DODONG CLOVIS
He battles the wind like a candle,
tears melting through his sides;
a disease slowly forming
inflamed by civic dissolution.
As he grows brighter for the people
he melts faster,
like his life ebbing away,
leaving him dying.
He flickers for the last time
emitting a wisp of smoke –
a soul rising to the ether
ascending towards heaven.
Clovis, the great poet
effulgence to Loon,
illuminating the government
bonfire to the maverick!
His sojourn on Earth is over but his legacy still lives. It is our duty to preserve his gift and share it with the people especially with his friends.