Abe (pronounced Ah-beh) is the Kapampangan word for companion or friend. It is also the name of a popular upscale Filipino restaurant named in honor of Emilio Aguilar Cruz—writer, painter, diplomat, gourmand and raconteur.
IT IS a touching gesture that Emilio Aguilar Cruz’s legacy of patriotism and service has been upheld by his family, and in giving his artworks to the nation through the National Museum, the works have become even more significant.
Although I miss both of them, Tatang (Abe Cruz) and his son, Larry —together now, no doubt, enjoying the mother of all royal feasts in the real foodie haven, complete with dancing girls—I can’t help but giggle, pardon the irreverence, when I think about Tatang’s wake. You see, I made a bit of a scene.
Living well is the best revenge. Few have exemplified the truth in this line by English poet George Herbert more...