Konted's Make My Day 2: A Knight Is Laid To Rest

A Knight Is Laid To Rest

Two Knights of Columbus were standing guard in front of the casket. Distinctive was their uniform consisting of a black tuxedo, feathered hat, cape and, of course, the sword. It exuded an aura of formality and elegance. And the two knights were there on a regular basis, standing in full attention and not moving. It was a fitting tribute to a fellow knight who had fallen.

Sir Knight Mauricio Ambanloc was Benguet Provincial Treasurer for many years, during which he received numerous awards for exemplary performance. He was known for his professionalism, for upholding the virtues of integrity and dedication. No one could question that. In his calm demeanor, he lived life to the fullest.

As Provincial Treasurer, he once engaged a big mining firm in court battles. It was a long and hard-fought proceeding. The firm would not pay sand and gravel tax, citing legalities. He stood his ground, with the firm belief that his beloved province of Benguet should not be deprived of what was due it under existing laws. From the Regional Trial Court, to the Court of Tax Appeals and, even up to the Supreme Court, the battles continued. In the end, Sir Knight Ambanloc came out victorious.

The hearse carrying Sir Knight Ambanloc's casket left Baguio Cathedral at exactly 8:30 am. Passing through the main roads of Aurora Hill and Trancoville, the convoy entered La Trinidad town with motorcycle cops clearing the way. And as part of tradition, the convoy drove up to the hilly portion of Benguet Provincial Capitol, slowed down and, near the flag, stopped for a while. Provincial Capitol employees had the chance to give their last respect for the man that had been close to their hearts.

The sky was clear as the hearse turned right to the Pyramid Memorial Park. It is a park with a scenic view. Close relatives, friends and province mates gathered for the brief ceremonies. At 9:45 a.m., in the stillness of the everlasting hills of La Trinidad, with the lush greens of the Cordilleras at a far distance, Sir Knight Mauricio Ambanloc was finally laid to rest. The green pines were gently weeping.

- Konted

Two Knights of Columbus stand at attention during the wake for fellow Knight Mauricio Ambanloc at the St. Peter Memorial Homes along Marcos Highway in Baguio City.

Necrological service for the former Provincial Treasurer of Benguet where friends and fellow knights take turns recalling their personal experiences with the fallen knight.

Wife of the former Provincial Treasurer, Aurora, is at the receiving line near the main door during an afternoon viewing.

Casket is being loaded for the last Holy Mass at the Baguio Cathedral.

A new Starex Van is used as funeral vehicle.

A 7:30 mass is scheduled at the Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral which is more popularly known as The Baguio Cathedral. Sir Knight Mauricio Ambanloc was a member of Council 363 of the Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral. He was also an Honor Guard of the Baguio Assembly of the 4th degree# 1434.