We bid goodbye to a man who made a big difference in the lives of many Dumagueteños.
Dr. Prospero ‘Rico’ Pañares Absin was more than just a respected anesthesiologist at the Silliman University Medical Center where he would often volunteer his medical services for worthy causes, such as operations on children with cleft palate.
Outside of his hospital duties, he would involve himself in the cultural, social, and physical programs that would put Dumaguete on the map of must-see places in the country.
For 44 years, Dr. Absin had painstakingly decked elaborate decorations at his home to the delight of the Dumaguete community.
Children, both young and old, would say they have once again become believers in the meaning and joy of Christmas after visiting his home.
And every Christmas Day, street children would walk up to Dr. Absin’s home for the customary Christmas breakfast, paid for by the donations received from visitors.
The MetroPost, in fact, made it a point to publish a photo of his Christmas House in almost every Christmas issue for the past 22 years.
Dr. Absin was also at the forefront of several festivities that had crowds flocking to Dumaguete to catch a glimpse of Manila-based actors and actresses parade the City streets for the Mayflower festival.
He was also a patron of the arts and cultural events, and was a regular sight in Dumaguete’s social scene.
As the song goes, “Some good things never last.” Dr. Absin was more than just a good thing. He was a real, down-to-earth person who dedicated his life to making a difference in our community.
