By MARK REY MONTEJO
Filipinos have this well-loved culture of calling someone “nanay, tatay or anak” even though they’re not related to each other either by blood or family connections through marriage.
This kind of practice has endeared many Filipinos to their foreign employers or even friends. Even student-athletes with Filipino blood have embraced this famous tradition.
Just like the case of Fil-American Mike Phillips of La Salle men’s basketball team.
The hard-working forward became emotional after learning the death of long-time La Salle guard Doleo Susalta.
They two have created a special bond that Phillips offered the Archers’ 88-67 win over the UST Growling Tigers Sunday, Sept. 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum to Susalta.
“I just want to dedicate this game to Doleo Susalta. He was someone who took care of us. He was a part of our LaSalle family. And he just recently passed,” said Phillips. “And he passed away two nights ago and last night, I was just in a dark place, and I saw the most beautiful sunset after training.”
“And I knew it was him. I knew it was him. So, if you guys have any spare time, can you just please pray for his family? I think it was his spirit, you know,” he added.
Susalta, a husband and father of two, had been close to Phillips since the latter entered the Taft-based school.
“I was playing for him tonight. He’s someone that really meant a lot to me. He really taught me a lot. He taught me Ilonggo,” he continued.
“And so, if you’re listening to this, my friend, I love you. And I hope to see you soon.”
Susalta must have been cheering lustily in his heavenly place that the 6-foot-8 Phillips produced 12 points and 18 rebounds to help the Green and White side its fifth win in six games this season.
“And it’s just been really, really hard. But, you know, I’m just so grateful for God because he gave me a family here,” said Phillips.
“I always tell you guys this, but, you know, when it’s really, really hard, [and] you really cling to your faith.”
