Atty. Pompio and Dr. Humilde Paradiang's golden Milestone

Spending half a century in love with one person is a wonderful statement about the gift of married life. Last January 2, 2008, Atty. Pompio “Pomping” A. Paradiang and Dr. Humilde “Meldy” D. Paradiang renewed their vows and marked 50 years of such a gift in a grand Golden Wedding anniversary celebration set for them by their loving children. The solemn ceremony was held at Christ the King Parish Church, Alang-Alang, Mandaue City and the reception immediately followed at the Grand Convention Center.

After an introduction of the principal sponsors and the romantic entrance of the couple, Adelfa Paradiang Mancao, daughter of the couple, delivered a warm welcome address to over 100 close family and friends present that evening. Adelfa is married to Engr. Walter Mancao. Atty. and Dr. Paradiang’s other children are: Jasmin, a registered nurse and MA degree holder; Pompio Jr., an engineer in the United States; and Alexander, also an engineer in the United States. The invocation to bless dinner was led by Fr. Marnel S. Mejia.

A parade of wine and eggnog was the prelude to the traditional slicing of cake and honorary toast to the wedded couple. Dr. Humilde D. Paradiang then introduced and acknowledged the presence of family and friends. Two of the couple’s talented grandchildren awed the guests with violin performances as the intermission number, followed by an inspiring message from Judge Lorenzo A. Paradiang Jr.

But the highlight of the evening was Atty. Paradiang’s beautifully moving response to Judge Paradiang’s message. Atty. Paradiang recalled the exact date, time and place some fifty years ago when his beloved Meldy (as he fondly called her) agreed to be his girlfriend and eventually, his wife. He proceeded to pass the bar examinations and was sworn into the Integrated Bar of the Philippines. They have four beautiful and successful children. When he spoke of Meldy’s fight with cancer and how it had spread to her internal organs several years ago, one could hear his voice crack with emotion as he recounted how the doctors had said his wife didn’t have long to live. But after much prayer, a postponed operation and a miracle from God, the cancer had ceased and there they were, celebrating their golden wedding anniversary long after they had expected the worst. Atty. Paradiang was moved to bittersweet tears, and his wife stood up to comfort him. In an enthusiastic voice, she then told the audience that there was no need to be sad, because she is still standing as a cancer survivor and a testimony to God’s compassionate healing. She is overjoyed with her second chance at life with her husband, children and grandchildren. Through the couple’s heartfelt speeches, one had a glimpse of their true love: enduring, supportive and selfless.

Indeed, it was a most beautiful occasion filled with happiness and love for family, friends and guests. Certainly many golden memories were made that lovely day of Atty. Pompio and Dr. Humilde Paradiang’s Golden Wedding Anniversary.