In Memory of my Friend

I lost a friend today. One of the most memorable men I've ever met. A loyal friend, a sparkling personality, a jovial demeanor, a love of sports and a sharp intellect that left you spinning the first time you encountered him. Francis G. Habalo was born in December 31, 1961, and passed away on July 27, 2009. He was a graduate of Ateneo de Manila University, Class of 1983, where he received a BS in Management Engineering.

Francis was, as we are taught to say in this day and age, differently abled. But his exuberant spirit overshadowed any physical problem and left you with the feeling that there was nothing the man could not accomplish. A rake who loved beautiful women, a kind soul who would listen to your problems, a comedian with a rapier wit that would leave you coughing with laughter at the most inopportune moment, Francis was a man to reckon with and a friend to all.

His going was sudden although he had battled physical problems before. It is characteristic that he posted as his status on Facebook only a few hours before leaving this plane a quote from Sigmund Freud, “What a distressing contrast there is between the radiant intelligence of the child and the feeble mentality of the average adult.”

I can hear his spirit now, rejoicing in the words of Martin Luther King, “Free at last! Free at last. Thank God Almighty, I am free at last!” May you rest in peace, my friend. We will all miss you.