A heartfelt elegy written by Xavier University–Ateneo de Cagayan professor Carthelyn Caiña-Adajar in honor of the late Rene Baterbonia has reached his family, offering comfort and a touching tribute to his life and legacy. The piece written both in English and Bisaya, has been warmly received by his loved ones. His wake is currently being held in his hometown of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, while his burial is scheduled on June 24, when family, friends, and community members will gather to pay their final respects.
In her Facebook post, Ms. Adajar expressed her gratitude to Jessie Felomino for initiating the visit to Talacogon and personally delivering the poem to Rene’s mother, along with the statue of Mama Mary from the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro. She also thanked Aimee Faunillan Abella for suggesting the creation of a Binisaya version of the original piece, as well as award-winning poet and colleague Arlene Yandug for helping polish the words of the elegy.
Ms Adajar is shown below with the framed elegy.
Read the elegy below.
Here is the piece, together with her personal letter addressed to Rene’s mother, Rovelyn.
Rene’s mother is shown personally receiving the framed poem.
Along with the elegy, a statue of the Virgin Mary from the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro was also sent to the family as a gesture of comfort and remembrance.
info and photos by Cathe Adajar
