Tribute to Kris Pomares

August was a month of news and surprises. A long time friend Kris, was diagnosed of Cancer of Lymphoma. Everybody was shocked. Still everyone managed to be strong for him. Unyo (Sebastian Hapin) told me of the bad news, and immediately contacted Bern to confirm. We scheduled a visit in Makati Med. Together with LA and his wife, we saw how hopeful and strong Kris is. I nearly cried upon hearing the details. But I said to myself and to Bern, we have to show Kris that everything's gonna be alright by not showing how sad we were.

When I got home from that visit, I got terrified.. I have full of what ifs.. Talked to some of my friends in the scene, and together with Clutches of Reality, we scheduled another visit to show support. So, seem everything is well after that.

One Sunday eve, August 1, 2010, I received a text from Bern, Kris is gone.... And that was it... I felt a cold flush of water thrown into my face upon reading the message (it was 3:30 am when I read it)...

I remember Apao saying " let's remember him when he was alive and not when he left us,". Yes, Kris was the most softspoken and jolly person in the group (Condemned*). We shared a lot of memories. Funny things he said and done, friends we shared and most of all, music. And those are the things that I will remember him most.. Even in his hospital bed (both Makati Med and East Ave.), amidst the pain he endured, he managed to tell silly jokes that never fails to make me laugh... I can still hear his laughter..his jokes and him strumming a guitar with the song 99 Red Ballons, Santeria and Time Bomb... I surely missed the Cavite and Makati gigs.. Most of all, I will miss him much..

I may not have been a part of tribute event for Kris, This is my own special tribute for him.. Pare, wherever you are..I know you are happy now, no more pains.. no more worries.. Until we see each other again..

* Kris plays guitar for Condemned, a local Grind Core Band.