My Son died at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort in Mactan, Cebu
I still remember that last day, May 27, 2000 in our hotel room at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort . It was right after we had breakfast getting ready for our glass-bottom boat ride. The video of “Be with you” by Enrique Iglesias was blaring on TV. Luijoe’s sisters shrieked ewwww mom except Luijoe and myself. They chided me for being so cheesy but Luijoe sat beside me and said you like that mama and I said yes. He said I like it too. Then we both watched it together.
That song is meant to be a love song but I can’t help thinking about the lyrics because it was the last song we listened together. The lyrics spoke so much of my indescribable grief and so, hearing the song always teared me to bits.
And now that you’re gone,
I just wanna be with you.
(Be with you)
And I can’t go on, I wanna be with you.
(Be with you)
Wanna be with you.
Miserable, depressed and inconsolable. Today, it’s different. The pain is not as searing as it once was.
In memory of Luijoe’s 8th death anniversary, I compiled the photos of Luijoe’s last few hours at Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort with “Be With You” as the background music. Here is that video.
Through all the numerous media interviews I’ve encountered in the past years with regards to the death of my son, I am often asked Which resort did Luijoe die? followed by I want to avoid going there. I often say it’s not important or just look it up since it’s public record.
Ali Sotto (ABC 5) and Joy Rojas (Inquirer) were able to guess. Good for them.
The next frequently asked question is How did he die or what happened?
Due to the unresolved civil case, I cannot say much unless everything is in public record or my husband gives me clearance. Saying the name of the resort is a fact and stated as such in the death certificate if you drop by the National Statistics Office. No matter what Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort does…hiring the best PR agency in the country, adding a luxurious Amuma Spa, enhancing the features of their beach resort, it does not erase the fact that my son drowned in their swimming pool 8 years ago on May 27, 2000.
I know you are curious to know the details of the case. Rest assured, I will post the developments in this blog. I might even do live-blogging in the court room.
The civil case does not mean we have not moved on , or resolved our grief. It does not mean that our hearts are filled with bitterness. The legacy Luijoe has left is a love that transcends time and space. How could I stay bitter for long? I am happy where I am right now. But filing the civil case is the right thing to do. You will know in time.
In the event you drop by the swimming pool at the lovely Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, please say a small prayer for us, that justice will be served soon.
Luijoe died in this swimming pool.
Inspite of his death, I feel so blessed that God gave me six wonderful years with my son.
I am grateful that Luijoe died in a beautiful place and not of violence like the RCBC bank robbery victims , Gabriel’s freak accident or frat violence that killed Cris Mendez.
I don’t hurt too much when I think of him. I am always aware that my family is incomplete and frequently I experience a feeling of wishful thinking for what might have been. But I no longer think of Luijoe every day or feel the searing pain of loss that I felt for so long.
I can remember what a beautiful child he was. I can remember cute things he did. I can remember the no-so-cute things he did, also. I remember many precious things about him, but remembering does not hurt anymore.
Of course, not hurting does not mean that I don’t care that Luijoe is dead or that his his six short years haven’t affected my life – even today. It says I have changed how I react to his death.
I chose joy over sadness. It is said that grief is inevitable but misery is optional. I realized that it did no good to sit in my misery pit. It does no good for the loss of my son to lead to the loss of two.
What does do good is doing good. I decided to lead the second part of my life differently and better than I would have imagined …in the name of my son, Luijoe. I know that as I reach out to bereaved parents through The Compassionate Friends … the world is changed in some small way for the better, and then the actions taken become my living tribute to my son.
And then Luijoe is never entirely gone.
(Read my husband’s blog entry, Thoughts on the Death of my Son Eight Years After. After 8 years, he can finally look at Luijoe’s last day photo and even post it in his blog entry.)
Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort is managed by the Almont Hotel. Inc. of Cebu. They also own another resort, Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort
This is about me ( a 
My friends and I visited Maribago Resort back in 2006 for a vacation. I’ve been visiting your blog even before that and I think I’ve read in one of your entries that the same place where we were was the place where your son died. While strolling beside that exact same swimming pool, I remember you and your stories of Luijoe and I decided to offer a short prayer for him.
You have a resilient spirit, Noemi, and that is so admirable. I am sure your son in heaven is so proud of you.
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Such an adorable kid, I’m sure he’s up in heaven watching over you and your family.
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I recently stumbled upon your blog. A very heartwarming post. Continue to inspire more people.
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“I chose joy over sadness.” Powerful words. I’m deeply touched by your strength. Good luck with your case.
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im sorry for this… i cant help but write a comment… i never expected i am going to read this entry in my reader…
i hope wherever luijoe is right now, he is at peace… im very much sure of that… he’s with HIS creator now…
now about that song, yah, it should have been a love song with an upbeat music, but you gave a different meaning to the song… it’s now a grief song… the lyrics fit your situation… a very heartwarming lyrics…
i hope everyone is just as strong as you are ms. noemi… please continue to become an inspiration to everyone… may God bless you and your family.
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@James- it’s beautiful resort. Unfortunately, the resort has a responsibility to us via the civil case. Thanks for the prayer. That’s so sweet of you. I once went there in 2003, not minding the guards. Holding on to a bouquet of roses, I placed it beside the pool.
Haha, I must have freaked out the people swimming in the pool.
@fitz- you can not imagine how Luijoe shows signs that he is indeed watching over us.
@witsandnuts- yes I try to help with my experiences and how I recovered.
@faye- I am also amazed at myself. I thought I wouldn’t live to write this entry.
@yatot- it is a grief song. It used to pain me hearing the song during the early years of my grief. Today, I feel a tinge of nostalgia and memories.
We have an inner strength we never see until we tell ourselves we can be…
i am sorry to hear of your loss. i hope your son will get the justice he deserves. i will pray for him and to your family as well. take care and pls know we are behind you. in god we trust.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Looking at Luijoe in the photos, he is such an adorable kid and I’m sure you were very lucky to spend six years with him. He’s in a better place now, I’m sure. I’ll pray that you get the justice you deserve, and that those responsible for what happened be held responsible.
God bless.
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I could feel the love in the way this entry was written. It’s overwhelming. I’m praying that justice may be served soon. Losing someone strikes a tender spot in my heart, but rest assured Luijoe is in a wonderful place, way wonderful than where we are now.
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My friends get scared of resorts or places where people have lost their lives. They’re a very superstitious bunch. Still, it’s not reason to stop enjoying what we have today in the present.
Justice will soon be served.
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@dean- yes he is a beautiful boy. Thank you for the prayers.
@sophie- I felt overwhelmed myself. I often get carried away on days like these. Thanks for the prayers.
@jhay- ah yes many ask me that question. Where did he drown ? I guess they were superstitious. NO doubt the resort is lovely but something was not in place that day….
I thought your son died because of sick…Knowing the story, I feel so symphaty to you. I can imagine the sadness of this sudden tragedy. My prayer for you and the whole family.
What a lovely tribute to Lui. It’s strangehow our sons spoke to us just before thely left. I can still remember, like it was yesterday, how Migi’s last words to me were — “Will you be with me forever?” And next week it will be ten years na. Hay.
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@viona- the sudden death is just so shocking. I felt quite numb the first few years. I just couldn’t take the pain.
@cathy- Those words is what brings me comfort. It’s words that I live by just as you worked for Migi’s Corner.
As one of your regular readers, I’m inspired by what you’ve achieved 8 years after you’ve lost Luijoe – using your grief to fuel pursuits to help others recover, to find strength in new beginnings and to embrace a bigger family in the process. I am sure he smiles when he sees what has become of you and your family after he has gone away. I will say a prayer for him.
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We lost our baby brother sixteen years ago and it’s still a painful topic for my family.
I wish your family nothing but the best.
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such a beautiful boy. i’m sure his smile charmed a lot of hearts. you have such a strong spirit and an inspiration to those people who are lost but would like to feel that genuine happiness again.
it was also very nice to meet you at the Lipton event last night. take care and God bless.
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@amomandmore- It makes me happy that Luijoe is looking down at me and smiling at how I am today. I always think of him whenever I offer my work for others.
@benj- the pain never really goes away. I understand it’s still a painful topic
@dyosa- glad to have finally met you dear. Thanks for the kind words.
a hug from me noemi. i’ll whisper a prayer for your beautiful son.
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Hi Noemi! i’ve been a constant viewer of your blog since jessica soho episode. i’ve read about your son luijoe. he’s so georgous & adorable child. i know how hard each day for you missing him& knowing he’s not coming back anymore. like you im a mom of 3 & i also have 1 boy. it always broke my heart seeing luijoe’s picture during his last hour. i always pray for him…take care!
If you listen to a song, sometimes we have different interpretations. Just like with Enrique’s “Be With You”. For most lovers, it more of longing for someone you love romantically. In your case, it is more on longing for a family member you truly love.
I remember when my father died, there is this one song that actually pertains to a woman who left her partner. But since i remember him liking the lyrics of the song, i had a different interpretation on the song (Will write an entry about it on his 4th death anniversary).
My brother Carlo who is an autistic child left for England months ago, and i remember before he left, he kept on singing the song “When You’re Gone” by Avril Lavigne. Now, I remember one line from the song that he kept on singing and that’s what i am feeling right now *tears*
“I never felt this way before, everything that I do reminds me of you”
Sorry Tita Noemi for being emotional. I just realized that two of the most important men in my life are not here beside me right now.
I made my own “Music and Lyrics” entry on Missing Carlo
http://missingcarlo.filblogs.com/?p=68
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@lady cess – thanks for the hugs
@Paula- it still tears me to see Luijoe’s last day. Sometimes I wish I had a magic wand to bring back the time and reverse it. Oh well
@micamyx- I lost my dad when I was much older and I felt it was his time. But in your case, you are still young. It must have hurt a lot. It’s so sweet of you to be a loving sister to your brother. I am sure Carlo misses you. *hugs*
I lost my dad too last year and every time I hear the song ” I’ll be missing you by puffdaddy.” it makes me feel that the world is so cruel to us and it makes me feel that I want to give up.
I remember seeing the website you made in memory of Luijoe, that’s how I got to see your blog. Parang that’s how we “met”. Your little boy has “brought” a lot of people in your life, maybe he wants to make sure you are “occupied” para di ka masyado maluingkot.
Talking about “reversing time” naalala ko tuloy yung isang telenovela na ganun ang plot. How we wish we can do the same. Maybe that’s what imagination is for… It’s good to know that your loss created a positive impact on your lives, esp with The Compassionate Friends. I’m sure you are a blessing to those you help. 
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I just hope and pray that your son will get the justice he And you family so deserve.
Hugs to you Noemi
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Luijoe is in a better place and he’s watching over you all.
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“Grief is inevitable… misery is optional” – How true! And so beautifully put too. I’m sure many are inspired reading about how you overcame the loss and grief. Hugs, Noemi! Many are with you in praying for justice for Luijoe.
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take care noemi and much love to you
Noemi, i’m from Cebu City. I am probably one of the worst, truant bloggers out here in the blogosphere, but whenever I get the chance, I always drop by your blog. I’m surprised to learn from this post that the incident actually happened here in Cebu. Three years ago, a friend of mine lost a cousin who also drowned in the pool of another resort here. The other year, a three-year old also drowned in another. Resorts and hotels bear the primary and higher responsibility in ensuring safety to guests, especially in its swimming pools because of its inherent hazards. Unfortunately, many resorts are operating without the required safety standards, some dont even have qualified lifeguards stationed theerin, and with no adequate warnings and signs displayed in the premises.Its really disturbing. The resort definitely should be held liable if proven to be remiss in its duty.
I most certainly hope that you and your family will obtain justice for this tragic loss.
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You saved those last moments in a video! I am sure you watch it now with mixed emotions. I am glad the pain no longer sears. You have perhaps put Louiejoe inside you, that way, he never goes away and you no longer hurt.
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Oh, it’s Luijoe. I am sorry.
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as i mentioned to you, my kids and i were reading all about louijoe on his anniversary, and we had one thought in mind–louijoe is also looking after our michael now.
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talagang dapat we should enjoy every moment na kasama natin ang mga loved ones natin. kasi we dont know kung hanggang kelan natin sila makakasama.
Hi Ate Noemi,
May you and your family continue to heal. My heart goes out to you and may you find the justice you seek. It willl not bring Luijoe back to you but hopefully it will bring you peace.
Sigh….I can’t help but feel sad…seeing the picture of your son, Luijoe, but I guess you just have to continue because life goes on…I’m praying that the case will be resolved the soonest possible time…God Bless….
well i am deeply touched by your determination and love for life !
I really envy your courage and strenght and hoping that someday i can also think and feel the way you do now.. I lost my first born daughter last March 11 this year due to a dengue shock syndrome, very sudden and and unexpected from a very healthy smart kid, i feel so shattered nowadays as i’m going through with my painful grief journey but reading your blog inspire me to hope that things will get better in time. .
Still aiming to find peace and comfort…. but in my case i think it will still be long way to go =( … or probably a lifetime search..
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful son.I know your pain.I lost my 23 year old daughter 3-18-06
Please visit my blog at
http://childlossmclg.blogspot.com/
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what a beautiful boy! forever young and forever sweet. you’re doing the right thing. remember him and celebrate him always.
I have a six year old sone just like yours. I am starting to miss him now. I think I’ll take a leave today to be with him.
I am sorry and it’s the posts here show many here appreciate your situation. Life gives us all sorts of challenges, and yours is one of the greatest. I have 2 young children and my greatest fear is somehow losing them. I can only hope that in someway your lose has made you stronger and more appreciative and receptive of the beauty, wonder, and precociousness life offers everyday , or in other words to use your lose as added incentive to appreciate what we do have. I am sure time has helped ease some of the sadness, and hope as the years pass the warm memories remain and the pain continues to dissipate. Best wishes.
Hi, Noemi! I just knew about this today. My goodness, as I was reading this post, my heart is crashed. I want to know the details but at the same time don’t want you to remember it all over again. I pray for him, and you and your family, and that you get the justice you deserve.
Be strong and have faith!
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While reading about Luijoe I could not stop my tears from flowing down my cheeks … such a beautiful loving boy. I admire you Noemi for your faith and strength to move on and share Luijoe with others. Your son made me appreciate life more than ever ! We don’t know what tomorrow will be so love and enjoy life to the fullest. I pray that your family will always be strong and that you will soon get justice you deserve. Luijoe is in a much better place now lovingly looking after you and your family always.
I’m also a mom of a bubbly two-year-old boy, and this post has inspired me to love my son even more as we don’t really know what might happen tomorrow or in the days to come. I admire you for your courage. I wouldn’t have known how to deal with the same situation. I’ll say a prayer for Luijoe and hope justice is served soon.
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hi. just stumbled upon your blog upon checking sea air’s website. actually i was shocked to see your blog’s title. im not a blog reader but cant help to check yours. i was crying the whole time reading ur blog. i have a five year old son whom i dearly love. i gave up my career to be with my son 24/7. i cant imagine what u went through. where do u get ur strength? i think im going to die if ever the same thing happens to me. am still crying while typing. im so touched by the pictures of your son. he’s sooo handsome and looks kind too. i admired u when u said u chose joy over sadness. i’l be waiting for ur updates regarding his case. hope u get the justice luijoe deserves.
It still hurts especially near anniversary dates, birthdays. Everyday, I live my life appreciating those I love.
grabe lummuha ko dun hah..be stong…continue inspiring others…
I was searching for mommy bloggers and I stumbled upon your blog. I am a mom too and I can feel the pain that we are going through. God bless. God is knows everything.
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I cried while I’m reading your post. You have a way with words that touches the deepest part of your readers, as if I was there witnessing the accident. I’m so sorry, children are the most wonderful gift to mothers and losing them is unbearable. I dont think I would really recover. I admire your strength
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I wrote this for myself not intending that my readers will cry along with me but maybe it can be helped. Thanks for visiting
i had goosebumps while reading your post. i admire you a lot. i am now officially a fan of this blog. continue inspiring people.
I’m so touched by your story. It’s so inspiring yet it saddened me. I’m sorry.. But, I believe that time heals every wound. Thank God for He’s giving you the strength you need to overcome the trials you have on your life.. Be strong and always hang on to Him.
Reading your blog melts my heart. I admire your courage and optimism. Perhaps, with the story alone, tanscending powerful insignts to your readers and informing how the resort is seemingly remiss of its duty (not in so many words, though) makes you vindicated, I supposed. Winning the case of course makes it more complete but you must be on guard on how manipulative money can be in cases like this. I just hope your case can stand on its own merit and the judge handling the case is an impartial one.
Goodluck and hope you win the case!
My name is John, 46 years of age and presently residing down here in Davao City.
I saw this boy unknown to me, in my dreams for three nights straight. He was soaking wet and wearing a stripe blue shirt which has a number 3 printed in it.
I remember he had a red car toy on hand and introduced himself as Louie. He was quite poilte and friendly and asked me to play with him in a nearby net cafe. Because am not in computer games…i just watched him play and play and play till i woke up.
The next two nights i would see the same boy in my dream in a different situation but still soaking wet. The image was always fun and we were like the best of friends playing balls…lots of balls he had.
Personally i have not heard about your son’s death until i accidentally read your blog while searching for Beach Resorts in Cebu. I was stunned and cried a river when i saw his photos, because im sure i have found him for real this time…how can i forget that face when my dream was just all about him and for three succeeding nights ?
He became my friend though only in dreams and am looking forward of seeing him again the next nights.
john
i cant hold back my tears as i am reading your blog.it inspire me to love my kids even more,to spend much time with them.
i hope and pray that god will continually bless you and your family with
courage and faith….may you obtain justice…GOD WILL ALWAYS MAKE A WAY!!!keep the faith.godbless!!!
May each precious memory bring strength and love to you and your family. Thanks for sharing the life of your beautiful son, Luijoe. I was searching online for ways to honor the memory of my sister Caroline who we lost to cancer last November; and thanks to your labor of love, I decided,that I will create a blog to honor her memory. God bless and thank you.
as i read your blog tears start to roll down, can’t fight it back….losing a child or anyone in my family member is the worst fear i have…..I have 3 sons aged 6, 2 and 1 yrs old Ms. Noemi I salute you for your courage and strength….really can’t imagine how much pain it had cause you for losing such a sweet child like him..luijoe looks like a little angel and smile that could melt your heart….yes its been long time since you lost him but regardless how many years but a mother’s heart will never forget her child….
be always strong and at this moment I am praying for you and your family and for sweet little luijoe..
God Bless
yes, only those who lost a child would truly understand. . .
thats life… no body knows if its unfair or not. but what ever it is , i know god will. we love us. be strong.
Found your site through FV and I was glad to know that you found acceptance of the tragic loss of a son. It is easy to quote W Wordworth,
but I wish to know if he was circumstanced as your husband.
A power is passing from the earth
To breathless Nature’s dark abyss;
But when the great and good depart,
What is it more than this—
That Man who is from God sent forth,
Doth yet again to God return?—
Such ebb and flow must ever be,
Then wherefore should we mourn?
William Wordsworth (1770 – 1850)
British poet
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awww. Luijoe is a beautiful boy.. youre lucky to have a beautiful angel watching over you..
Your story really made me cry..You are truly a strong woman…Just like other said..your adorable son is with our Almighty God..Rest assured that he is just there watching and smiling at you..Good luck and God bless..
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Hope that justice will prevail. hearing your story about your son’s death makes me feel sad.
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i am a parent to a 5 year old and my wife and i are planning for a vacation and i guess someone told my wife about this maribago resort. i was surfing the internet about it and then i saw your blog. i am really saddened for what happened to luijoe, i am sure he was a very sweet kid. i cannot imagine the pain your family went through. i hope you get the justice for luijoe. God bless your family
You are such an inspiration Noemi. I have yet to attend a TCF and Griefshare meeting but reading your blog makes me feel better. Our only daughter died six months ago from brain cancer. We lost her only after 2 months from diagnosis. We’re still in the early stages of grief and we long to feel genuine happiness and contentment again.
Glad I was able to be of comfort. I heard of cases like that so fast, so soon. I will introduce you to someone who lost her child through brain cancer. Please email me your contact details,.
he’s so young. he could’ve been anything he wanted. however, there’s a purpose for everything. let your positivity shine through and let your memories of your son help you to fully recover.
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Hello,thanks for sharing this and Im sure you and your family will be blessed. It is an inspirational story that losing someone we loved is not the end of loving/caring other people. God Bless and good luck for the final verdict. Rey
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it’s sad to heard about your story, but we know God have his own purposed why he took your angel so early.but remember he is always been so great to all of us.if you want something that you can’t have, there is something better for you.
Hi Noemi.. am in tears while reading the post. Gods works in mysterious ways dear..
What a wonderful mother you have been to have accepted fate and chose to live what will make your son happy, as he watches you from the heavens above
Your son was an adorable kid and he is in fact, still an adorable darling as he lives in your heart.. in the heart of a loving mother..
Nice coming over to your blog, i learnt something new today and thank you for that
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I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot even imagine how painful it was. It brings tears in my eyes. I have a son and he is turning 4 this coming July. I think that losing a love one especially a dear child is the lowest form of misery.
Hi, Noemi. I’m a subscriber of ur Pinoy Food Recipes and I was really moved upon reading ur blog. I admire ur strength. I, too, have lost my daughter, 13 years ago. It took me several years to recover and realize that “this too shall come to pass”. God really has His way of making our laden bearable. I hope u continue to enlighten more people. God bless!
hi , your boy is so cute and wonderful , im sure his happy now beside of the great one above … youre blogs touches us! GOD bless
hi im just new in blogging.. the story of your little boy touches me , I also experienced lost of a loved one, my little angel …
i didn’t have to finish reading your article to feel your pain… im also a mom to a four year old boy who loves water so much. having lost my brother in a sea accident two years ago gave me an extraordinary fear of water… the pain of losing jon my brother is still inside my heart probably tucked away thats why at times, i feel okay i can function properly but just a small reminder of him would make the pain surface.
im praying that your little angel will finally have the justice that he so deserves… and if its of any consolation, i want to let you know that God probably needs an additional angel that’s why Luijoe had to come back to his Creator very early…
it’s actuallly my frist time to read your blog and I couldnt help but shed a tear for the pain any parent would feel in losing a child. this isnt the normal course of things. I am a mom of a precocious 1 yr-old who loves the water so much and i can not imagine experiencing such a tragedy, heaven forbid.
I wish u and the family strength coz despite the years, the pain will always be there. i believe luijoe’s happy watching you from above, being brave for him and staying strong as a family..
even if it might not mean any difference, i’d like to hold hands with the family. I admire your keeping a stiff upper lip all these years, I know he’s happy where he is now. by the way , i keep reading your blog.
i admire you ms. noemi for being such a loving and brave mom. i’m sure that your adorable son is in heaven now watching over you and your family. i’ve lost my youngest brother nine years ago. it was a few days from his 14th bday, about 5 days before he would turn 14. it was too hard for us bearing his lost especially the manner in which he died. he was stabbed to death by unknown assailants.we misses him so much. he brings so much fun to the family. but just like you we thank God for the 14 memorable and happy years we’ve spent with him.God Bless you.
I stumbled on this blog by whatever chance. I’m thinking…..I remember now. I was typing blogger.com in yahoo when I was instead directed to the search page. This came up on the first page so I thought I would visit. I got this inclination to read pinoy blogs.
And then, I happen to read Maribago, got me curious, I’ve been there. It’s a nice place, just so sad the story is too heartbreaking. I couldn’t imagine this to happen. How come they don’t have lifeguards, or if there was, it’s horribly irresponsible of them.
I’m sure you got your angel watching your back and your family. He’s safe now with our Creator. I hope you continue to inspire people. I pray that God grants you the strength you need to carry on. It’s been 8 years but I know the pain would still remain. I lost my father 11 years ago but the pain is always there. I haven’t showed him how much a father meant to me. I don’t know how to show my emotions before aside from the fact that I am raised in a conservative way. I hope that your message would go a long, long way and that other readers would realize that our borrowed life is temporary, that it’s never too late to say “I Love You” to all the people you love. I thought before it’s “OA”, it really not. Naantig tuloy damdamin ko.
Be stronger and God Bless to you and your family.
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we respect your grief and we are really sorry for it, but what you just posted in your blog scared 15 teenagers who wants to go and have a vacay in that resort. it made us NOT WANT to go to that area. could you just not post it in the internet? because it really scares us. at least you could not have made mention of the resort’s name.. when i searched it in google.com your blog is the 2nd result of the list. and it was entitled MY SON DIED AT MARIBAGO BLUEWATER BEACH RESORT. who would want to go there after reading this? we respect you, totally. but can you at least think of other people too who wants to enjoy? we are totally not being selfish. we just want to tell you that its just not fair for everyone. we do hope you’ll understand us. thank you.
excuse me this is my blog and I have every right to write about the beach resort that my son died. Inquirer, and other TV stations who interviewed me always ask where my son died. I could have easily said “Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort” but I didn’t because I gave the beach resort a chance to fix things. However, Inquirer investigated and published the name.
Also, I don’t believe 15 teens did not want to go there. Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort had a bloggers event in May.
an example
http://www.obnoxiousqueer.com/2009/05/18/summer-experience-maribago-bluewater-beach-resort/
In order to be invited they had to link the Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort in their blogs. Looks like their SEO strategy failed. These bloggers are my friends but I never stopped them from going there. THey were not scared to be at the beach resort.
Looks like your strategy failed, Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort. You should concentrate more on the civil case we filed instead of having SEO contests.
@ xD Wow how insensitive of you to say that. The lady lost an effin child you prick.
no we are definitely no connected to maribago beach resort or whatever. anyways yeah ur right , its ur blog. whatever you say madam. we mean no harm, we are just asking you to be considerate for others. we are just normal people who wants to e.n.j.o.y. anyways, we do hope you’ll win the case. we wish you luck and the best. we do hope ur not mad or whatever. thanks for reading the comment by the way.
You are obviously a PR from Maribago Bluewaters Beach Resort because NO one has ever told me to remove the name of the beach resort in this blog. In fact, everyone (Press people, readers) ask me what the name of the resort is. I was nice and never revealed it until last year.
Oh and coincidentally one of your bloggers, (Empress) also commented.
If you are not truly their PR, stop whining and visit other beach resorts in Mactan like Shangrila, PLantatation Bay.
xD,
People have brains. They can read the details here so they can decide if that resort is indeed unsafe or not.
Captain Obvious to the rescue.
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I offer prayers for you, your son and your family. Virtual hugs for you…
“grief is innevitable, but misery is optional”
such powerful words… i fell in love with it the first time i read it…
continue to inspire people, and never stop being strong…
I could not continue reading about your son Luijoe’s. An immeasurable loss. You are still in pain. You’ll never really get over it, I guess. In my own experience. All my heartfelt sympathy for you, and I’ll pray you too.
My nephew-dependent Richswaze was held a hostage by an organized crime group. We came out of it all alive, but I somehow lost him, and I can’t get over the pain of seeing him suffer and our lives in constant danger for many years. I last enrolled him at OB Montessori-Greenhills.
We suffered horrors. And we survived abuction-slay attempts. We lost everything, but still thank God we remain alive and free to hope. We let go of all our hard-earned material possessions to stay alive and in our quest for justice. Richswaze is now 15; he never had any counselling for all the trauma and is somehow troubled. He loved to swim – we did it all the time when I was raising him (with me since the age of 2-3).
Again, my sympathy. I hope others will realize that what you are doing just might prevent another another family, mother from unimaginable grief, and another loss of life.
I’m in tears. My best wishes for the family. I could not say move on, I feel bad about the words. Instead, please do everything to live happy content lives, for sure Luijoe should want it that way. And part of bring happy and fulfilled is when you think you deserve justice and you use all your might and more to seek it. I’m sorry for any of my words…
I was in Blue Water Resort Maribago last May, 2004.. reading your post give me goose bumps as I have a pictures taken at the same spot where your son drowned…
Also, FYI, my middle name is Dado also.. maybe your husband and I are distant relatives..he he
More power to you.. you’re such a woman of strenght…
it is a lovely resort. I plan to return there one day.
I was so touch by your blog. I’m a father of two girls, aged 9 and 6 and I can feel your pain. If there is one thing in life that I’m so afraid of is to loss any of my child. I admire your strength. I’ll be following your blog… Atfer reading this, I became your instant fan.
yes it is the worst nightmare of any parent. Death of a child is something so devastating . one often questions “why me?”
Hi Noemi,
Am also from Cebu and its my 1st time to read your blog. I also have 3 kids, all grown up now but my fourth boy died 5 days old. It breaks my heart to see parents neglect their kids after bringing them into this world. Don’t they know that Love is spelled TIME. I admire your strength bec. I wouldn’t know how to handle it. I just detached my soul from my body to escape the feeling of grief and thought to myself, now i have an angel watching me from Heaven. You are always in my prayers.
Lisa
thanks Lisa for the prayer. It warms my heart.
I chanced upon this blog because I was searching for any topic about parenting. I almost want to cry but I held back the tears (actually I’m in the office)my colleagues might see me crying.I felt the pain you’ve been through and the love you have for your son. I’m also a mother of three boys aged 9,8 and 6.We experience different pains in life. Right now I’m still mending losing my job last August.I was a regular employee but the company closed and I didn’t get any payment. You are so strong,you’ve inspired me a lot.From this day on,I’ll be more loving and caring to them and to people I love.I’ll always think of God’s blessings to me and my family though life is really hard.
it is pain I learned to live since his death. I learned to be strong through the years.
SO glad I came across your site in topblogs.ph… Eversince our baby came to our life, all i ever pray about is may she have a healthy and long life. While reading this post, i dont know why did my heart beat so fast.. i guess because Im a parent and losing our children is our greatest fear. I may not have experienced it yet but i know that you’ve been through a lot of dark days after that unexpected tragedy. It somehow broke my heart and yet I admire you for being strong. Just like the others, you inspire me.
Keep on inspiring us. Goodluck and God bless you and your family =)
I wish nothing but the best of health for your child. Enjoy being a parent.
my eyes are filled with tears after reading this, please forgive me for not writing at length, however i wish to share something that has helped me many many times.
http://www.watchtower.org/e/200712/article_02.htm
My Name is Nick and I live in London. I was deeply saddened by this article. I have 2 sons…6 years and 8 years old. I honestly don’t know what I would do, or how I could survive if I lost one. I acknowledge your dignity and your courage in the face of such unimaginable horror as the death of your beloved son Luijoe… We can all see that even in his short life, he was loved enough for a lifetime. God bless you both and keep you strong.
hi noemi
thanks for sharing your experiences to the world!
im a relatively new mom but i can’t imagine life without my children.
will always pray for you and your family.
to say, i’m sorry for your loss, would not be enough to seek forgiveness or justice for what happenned to your son. with the searing pain you have suffered, i will pray for you. be strong, time has a way of healing the wounds. let memories you have with your son be your strength to seek justice.
I’m sorry for your lost ate Noemi,i do read your blog every now and then.I cant help to cry whenever I saw your beautiful son.My Papa and 9yr old son died last May8,09 in Bagac,bataan.They drowned in the ocean,though my older son and husband survive the trauma we experienced still haunts us all.I always have nightmares,the incidents keeps coming back its like were in a movie,a horrible ending.No one from the resort help us only the residents nearby,The most painful part that all resort surrounds CastleBeach Resort where all closed due to such incident.They do have LifeGuard daw thats why the city municipal let them operate, But in fact there’s no life Guard,Ate help me,my life at the moment is so painful.Like yours Ate I would also like to sue them for their negligence of not even bothering us to help nor tell us to be careful.I want Justice for my Papa and Son.Last 2or3 weeks ago I heard from a news that another child drown in Bataan,not in Bagac.The Sea of Bataan really is a Killer Beach,my sister learn from the net that this incident always happens every now and then.
Sorry for what happened. I know your son is happy to where he is right now. Upon reading your post, i feel like crying. Its so sad hot people come and go. But its life. I wish you and your family all the best miss Noemi.
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i happened to read your blog, and i cant stop the tears to fall as i read it and watch the video… i have 3 boys, 14, 13 & 9, and maybe one of them, of the same age of luijoe now.. i do understand how you felt, how are you feeling… cause, i myself, i really don’t want anything to happen to my children. if there’s anything in this world i don’t want to happen is losing any of my son… i may sound weirdo, but i once said this before, if anything would happen to me, sana magkakasama kami.. ayoko silang iwan… selfish wish… well, that was when i know that they cant take care of themselves pa. i guess i only love them so much, i want the best for them… and as a working mom, searching for new recipes this season, the reason i joined pinoyfoodblog.com. it’s for them, i want to served them food they like most. likewise, through this i learned about the pain you felt… losing a precious son.. i know this comment is not enough to ease what you felt. but my prayers for you and your family, may the justice you’ve been waiting for be served accordingly. i know if luijoe is watching right now, he is happy and really very proud of you, for having you as his mom.. God bless..
hello po. I felt sad reading your blog but I just want to ask, what kind of justice are u looking for? For me, aksidente kasi ang nangyari. Nobody wants that to happen. God has a purpose for each of us…
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
also, reading your other page you said “At the age of 6 years old, Luijoe had no moral culpability and therefore never sinned. ”
You can’t say He never sinned because all of us has sins. We have original sins. all of us has sins.
since you are ignorant about the issues you have raised, let me educate you.
1. we filed a civil case. Check it with the courts for details.
2. it was the catholic priest who said that line. Obviously you are not Catholic or you have known that.
Hi ate Noemi! Happy New Year pala! i am a mother to two little boys and they get so naughty sometimes i’d like to storm out of the house when everything seems unbearable,,, but reading your blog for Luijoe makes me realize that I have to be grateful for all the nice and Naughty things they’ve done because it means I am still blessed to enjoy their presence.
Lots of love to you and your family
Hi po,
I, came across your blog and saw that your last name was Dado. I thought, is she related to Atty. Butch Dado who I met in Mapua when I was still the Editor-in-Chief of Mapua’s school paper..? When I realized that your husband is the Atty Dado I know, I found myself typing in for comments.
I met Atty. Dado during the Mapua name change thingie, and found him very friendly and approachable. I’m sure your son also inherited his dad’s traits.
Your blog is sending your message effectively, keep it up po. Filipinos need more blogs like this.
Ace (–The New Builder EIC)
this is one sad story i hope any of your readers won’t have to re-live. although i realize that you’ve posted this for more than many months (or years) ago already, i still could never imagine how one could cope with such a tragic incident. blogging about it, i guess, is one bold step forward.
I am a mother of 2, 1 girl and a boy. Your story made me cry , and still crying while I am writing this. In my deepest thoughts, that is the one I am most dreading of. I came upon this blog, while I was looking for a place to stay in Cebu. We will have our grand vacation this coming month. My children loves water. I am scared now.
i was looking for a topic regarding Marky Cielo and i saw your blog, i am also a mom and losing somebody is the painful feeling that anyone can feel, losing a child is i think the most painful for he/she came from you, you carry him/her in your womb for 9 months, you feel the beat of his/her heart and pray that he/she will be safe as you carry her/him. You may get over the pain of losing as day passes but the memory still lives. I think the feeling of pain and longing will never be erased nor forgotten. Marky Cielo died at the age of 20 and i was devastated for i saw him how he believed and survived the rigors of showbusiness, and I often wonder how painful it is for his mom to live each day.I am not connected to him i am merely a fan but when he died i cried and till now i still visits youtube for his videos. i know words will not lessen the longing for a special one especially little angel like your son, marky Cielo and other parents who lost their children in different ways, but i do believe time will make you accept the loss, and as they say another angel is added in heaven guiding you everyday. Take care and God be with you.