Golden Bonds by the Sea: DWC-T Class of 1965 Celebrates 60 Years of Friendship
On August 2–3, 2025, the DWC-T High School Class of 1965 gathered once again—this time for their 60th anniversary reunion—at the serene shores of Libaong, Panglao. Under the meticulous guidance of “program director” Nila Calimbayan-Itac, the weekend unfolded like a well-rehearsed dance, each moment stitched with laughter, music, and the warmth of shared history.
The festivities began the moment classmates arrived at the seaside venue. After settling in, they came together for the celebration of the Holy Mass, led by Fr. Antonio Bon Pates. For the class, Fr. Pates has long been more than just a classmate—he is their spiritual brother-in-arms, faithfully shepherding monthly gatherings with the same devotion he brought to this special occasion.
When the last hymn faded, supper was served—a meal that would set the tone for the rest of the weekend. From there, the evening shifted into a whirl of lighthearted revelry: games, singing, and dancing that revived the exuberance of their youth. The “X-rated” version of Trip to Jerusalem brought the house down with laughter, leaving Tita Lim and Rene Rocha as the last two standing.
The class proved they were rich in musical talent. Balladeers Edie Maslog, Ernie Reyes, and Mon Butalid serenaded the group with smooth, heartfelt melodies, while Au Pahang, Vit Egama, Mary Uy, Celia Lopena, Tita Lim, and Bebie Villamor delivered nostalgic oldies, each note carrying decades of memories. Between performances, prizes were awarded for trivia contests, team games, best dancers, and special distinctions—including the farthest traveler, Gingging Bon, and the closest, Chichay Bondal, making her first appearance since graduation.
As night deepened, the conversation did not. Sleep was impossible with so many stories to exchange and memories to relive. The chatter flowed well past midnight, the sound of waves outside blending with the hum of voices inside.
Sunday dawned bright and calm, the sea an irresistible invitation. After breakfast—taken at an unhurried pace—several classmates waded into the crystal-clear water, swimming and basking until the tropical sun urged them back indoors. Lunch was a feast anchored by a perfectly roasted lechon, its flavor and tenderness earning unanimous praise.
The reunion would not have been possible without the generosity of many: Medy Gonzaga-Ngo for the prizes and lechon; Mary Uy for the bounty of snacks and her videographer-son’s coverage; Au Pahang for the venue rental; and Tita for arranging the food catering and live band. Above all, it was made special by the presence of each classmate who came, some from afar, some from just around the corner, all bringing the same spirit that has kept their bond alive for six decades.
As they parted, the Class of 1965 made a new pact: not to wait five or ten years for another grand reunion, but to meet every year. For these “senior seniors,” time has only deepened the joy of coming together—proof that true friendships, like the sea that witnessed their celebration, are vast, enduring, and forever renewing themselves on the shore of memory.