Today is my Tatay’s (Dad’s) birthday—fondly called Bapa. The term “Bapa” is listed as a Tagalog term for “Father” but in Kapampangan dialect, it also means “Uncle” or a well respected male elder.
Just as I paid tribute to my mom the other day, I’d like to honor him as well. Both have gone before us and are now in heaven. In celebration of his birthday, I wrote this tribute to the man who made everyone feel seen, who never met a stranger, and who turned every family game night into a celebration. Read on if you’d like to know the man behind the wheel. 🚌❤️
To Tatay Angel “Bapa”
A Birthday Tribute
he drove our family forward with laughter, wisdom, and love.”
My father, fondly known as Bapa in our Kapampangan dialect, was more than a skilled driver. He was dearly loved by siblings and relatives, trusted by professionals, respected by politicians, and beloved by neighbors near and far. Whether behind the wheel of a cargo truck, taxi, or our family jeepney, he carried more than passengers—he carried stories, advice, and a presence that made people feel truly seen.
He was a people person through and through. Young couples sought his counsel. Friends came for his jokes. And we, his children, were raised with respect, humor, and the steady guidance of both Bapa and our hardworking mother. Together, they raised six of us to be kind, grounded, and proud of who we are.
💫 The Christmas Letter Joke
“What letter is missing from the alphabet this time of year?” We’d guess and guess, until he’d grin and say, “It’s the letter L—because everyone sings ‘No-El, No-el, No-el, No-el!’” And yes, my name is Noel. That joke lives on whenever I lead a group, especially with seniors.
🎲 Scrabble Night
He didn’t always follow the rules, but he always made us laugh. One time, he laid down all his tiles to form “EverGreenFields”—a word that didn’t quite fit the dictionary, but somehow fit the moment perfectly. We didn’t care about the score. What mattered was his presence, his joy, and the way he made family time feel like a celebration.
Bapa, your birthday reminds us of the roads you traveled and the lives you touched. You taught us that being present is the greatest gift. That laughter is a kind of wisdom. And that love—like a good jeepney ride—is best shared with others.
Happy Birthday, Tatay Angel “Bapa”!
Your legacy rides with us every day. 🚌 ❤️