By: Samantha Bernardo, Vicente Ignatius Mate IV
Rev. Fr. Clarence Victor C. Marquez, OP. with members of the Senior High School staff of Letran-Manila. Photo is courtesy of Melody Jade Soriano of The LANCE.
Letran- Manila Rector and President, Rev. Fr. Clarence Victor C. Marquez, OP celebrated his 54th birthday in the Colegio on Friday, October 21, 2022.
He started the celebration with a mass he led in the morning. There was also a feast with the Letran community after the mass.
In an interview with The LANCE, Fr. Marquez recounted his years in Letran, having spent 19 years in the Colegio. 11 years for educational purposes, and as the school's rector and president for 8 years.
He also remembered those people close to him that passed away.
He stated his life is a gift from the Lord. "Ngayon, 'pag sinabing blessing, hindi lahat ay masayang sandali. Maraming malungkot, maraming mahirap, maraming nakakatakot, maraming pagkakamali, yet we still consider them as gifts from God. Kaya itong 54 years ay regalo ng Diyos kahit ano man ang dumating."
He added occasions like birthdays is a reminder from God that life is a gift and we should take care of it.
Fr. Marquez wished people to be kind, happy, and healthy for his birthday. "At gaya ng binulong kanina, sana manalo tayo. Champion sa laro. Champion sa buhay. ‘Yun lang," he said.
He concluded the interview by stating that he was thankful, and that the Colegio's journey will continue and prosper long after his rectorship with blessings from God.