Teban returns to work

CEBU, Philippines - After almost four months of absence following two surgeries, Board Member Julian “Teban” Daan returned to the Cebu Provincial Board in a wheelchair yesterday.

“The Love of God manifested in the success of my surgical procedure with no major complications and most importantly God gave me a second chance in order to continue serving the public,” Daan said.

He was admitted to the hospital on December 21, 2013 and underwent a heart bypass. On January 18, he had to undergo a colon surgery following intestinal bleeding.

Daan said the pectoral cross of the late Archbishop Teofilo Camomot helped him recover.

Shortly before the session, he told the media that Metropolitan Cebu Cathedral parish priest Monsignor Ruben Labajo was the one who asked his family to approach Nicanor, the brother-in-law of Msgr. Roberto Alesna.

 Nicanor is said to be the keeper of Camomot’s pectoral cross, the cross that a bishop wears on his chest.

 Daan said Nicanor visited him three times at the hospital before returning to New Jersey, USA. He was in Cebu for the Sinulog last January.

Daan said his personal experience is something that can be added to the many reasons why Camomot should be beatified.

In his speech, Daan made special mention of the people who have helped him in his ordeal – Governor Hilario Davide III, Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale and members of the Board for the medical assistance; Board Member Thadeo Ouano for his intercession to the office of Sen. Teofisto TG Guingona; Board Member Jude Thaddeus Sybico on behalf of the PB Members League of the Philippines; Engr. Federico Damole and Narissa Flores of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office; Rep. Benhur Salimbangon; and MSY Charitable Foundation Inc.

 Daan did not mention their names in his speech but former Rep. Pablo Garcia and daughter, third district Rep. Gwendolyn Garcia, also reportedly extended assistance to him.

 Daan was discharged from the hospital last February 8, but he was advised to rest until April. (FREEMAN)