Mga Kapatid sa Thanksgiving - On This Day

J.F.R. Perseveranda 11/22/2025 06:35:00 PM

Family, Memory, and a Moment from November 22, 2001

November 22, 2001. Vallejo, California. Twenty-four years ago today, a simple family photo captured something deeply Filipino — brothers gathering in the home of their eldest sibling, as tradition has always dictated.

In the photo are three brothers: Manny, Eduard, and Ronnie (of eight siblings). The gathering took place at the home of their Kuya Boy (Ronnie, my dad). For Filipino families, the home of the panganay is more than just a location — it’s a symbol of continuity, respect, and the unspoken responsibility carried by the eldest sibling.

What makes this image particularly emotional today is that my dad’s two younger brothers, Manny and Eduard, have since passed away. Looking back at this moment — their smiles, their closeness, their youthful energy — adds a bittersweet weight to the memory. It’s a reminder of how quickly time moves, and how precious these ordinary family gatherings truly are.

Filipino families have always relied on connection: food shared at a table, stories told late into the night, siblings coming together no matter how busy life becomes. This photo is one of those small but powerful reminders of why these traditions matter.

Today, I honor my uncles, my titos Manny and Eduard, and all the quiet, joyful memories they left behind.

Photos like this are more than snapshots

They’re proof of the love, culture, and continuity that hold Filipino families together. As we look back on this day 24 years ago, we remember the brothers, the tradition, and the love that remains.

Manny, Eduard & Ronnie

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By: J.F.R. Perseveranda

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Posted by: J.F.R. Perseveranda

Founder, Social Media Manager & Content Creator at Pinoybuilt.com. Photographer at JFPerseveranda.com. Former IT Product Manager at Pacific Gas & Electric. I'm a 1.5 generation immigrant—Filipino-born, U.S.-raised—sharing stories that bridge cultures. Share yours at PINOYBUILT.com. I’m still learning about our roots, and I invite you to learn with me. I was born in Makati City and raised in Marikina, known for world-class shoes and strong community ties. I went to Marist School; my sister went to St. Scholastica’s. We spent weekends in Malate—those memories of old Manila still shape who I am. At 9, we moved to Chicago, where I saw snow for the first time. At 12, we relocated to Vallejo, CA. Since then, I’ve lived in Davis,Glendale (SoCal), back to Chicago in my 20s, San Francisco & Fremont. I visit SoCal often for family. Chicago will always be special—but go Golden State Warriors! At UC Davis, I was a member of Mga Kapatid, where I had the chance to participate in Pilipino Culture Night and perform traditional dances like Bangko. Now, as a father of three, I’m doing my best to pass on our Filipino heritage. Let’s build something Filipino together. Mabuhay. Salamat.