Seraphim D. Biliran

Is it hard to raise one child?

Then imagine embracing the calling of raising eleven—seven daughters and four sons—each with a dream, a personality, and a destiny entrusted by God.

Mrs. Angelita Dompor Biliran

That was the beautiful life of my mother, Angelita Gomez Sarigumba Aliñab Dompor, Biliran, March 1, 1929 – July 1, 1997

She never sought applause, yet she deserved a standing ovation every single day of her life. She poured herself out without counting the cost, sacrificing quietly, loving unconditionally, and praying tirelessly. Every sleepless night, every silent tear, every whispered prayer became the foundation upon which her children built their lives.

She was not only blessed with eleven children—including three priests—but also with a heart gifted in music. She was a music professor. Together with Atty. Elpidio Varquez Biliran, she co-composed timeless songs that continue to echo in the hearts of many: Holy Name March, Damgong Tabunon, Pagkatam-is, and Paabuton Ko Ikaw (Buhi sa Kanunay / Ako Kang Paabuton), among others. As the beloved wife of Law Dean Emeritus Atty. Elpidio Varquez Biliran, she lived a life defined not by titles, but by faith, humility, and boundless love.

  Atty. Elpidio Biliran

She was honored as a Mother of the Year during her lifetime, but to us, she was—and always will be—Mother of a Lifetime.

Though the years continue to pass, not a day goes by that I do not miss your gentle voice, your warm embrace, your quiet strength, and the love that made our house a home. If Heaven allows mothers to hear the whispers of their children on earth, I hope you know that your love still lives in us, your sacrifices were never in vain, and your legacy continues to bloom through every life you touched.

I love you both. I miss you more than words can ever express.

May you rest forever in the loving embrace of our Lord, where there is no more sorrow, only everlasting peace and joy.

Requiem aeternam dona ei, Domine; et lux perpetua luceat ei. Requiescat in pace. Amen.

(Editor’s Note: Phim Biliran is a former news editor, writer, and reporter who trained under the mentorship of the Managing Editor of this paper. He is rooted in faith, inspired by food, and fueled by travel. He continues to create stories, believe deeply, and embrace life as a proud dad and granddad, loyal friend, and trusted confidant.)