The 50s-60s (Post-War)

When the country was liberated completely and government, education and other activities were normal. Father began to tell us of his guerilla activities, that he was an officer and would receive a Lieutenant’s pay. We did not believe and even made of his calculated back pay as regular active army officer. He had his turn at mocking us when his official appointment came. He was indeed an officer in the guerilla forces and was awarded all rights remuneration and benefits of his rank.

Then we knew why he was so confident of Mely’s going to U.P.- he would avail of the Educational Benefits of Veterans. He got his back pay and received his paycheck regularly until his death. At his funeral his coffin was draped with a big American flag.

The guerilla forces in San Marcelino surfaced as soon as American victory was declared. There were about two battalions and the now regular U.S. Army soldiers marched in formation wearing their khaki and perishing caps proudly. One of them was Lt. Meliton C. Ordillas.

Rehabilitation of lives and homes began. Our families left the cramped huts and returned to the comfortable homes which luckily did not suffer the brunt of war enemy occupation.

After the war, the family resumed its ordinary peaceful life. Sylvia and Mely continued their studies. Aurea, Juliana and Sylvia got their Elementary teacher’s Certificate and joined the teaching force of the town.