Los Angeles: Her Majesty Queen Josephine Calizar Aban Guillen was recently crowned at a formal Coronation Night at the prestigious Marriott Hotel in Torrance last September 1, 2007. In 1991 after series of accounting jobs in Makati, she decided to go to the US to try her luck. Decided and loyal as she is, she was employed by Washington Mutual Bank for 15 years until the corporate office decided to transfer the operations in San Antonio Texas this 2007. She has now joined City National Bank as a Call Center specialist.
Josie has found her true love in the person of Magno Guillen, a loveable, funny and unassuming Peruvian she met in 1995. They were both smitten with each other and got married in 1996. This year will mark their 11 years of wedded bliss. Coming from two different cultures, I could not help but ask about the secret of their relationship. “It’s all about give and take. He gives, and I take everything!” Josie laughed with all abandon. “But seriously, one just needs to listen when the other on talks. We give each other the chance to vent without contradicting, for as long as it takes. Afterwards, the storm passes, and we’re smiling and holding hands again. It is also important to have common interests.” When time permits, both enjoy dining out and attending parties. Put the Salsa, Swing, Cha-cha and Cumbia music on and they would surely dance the night away.
The Bani Association has been instrumental to Josie’s being active in the past years. She has served as Business Manager since 2005 and the wind behind many successful fund raising campaigns. Her tireless efforts directly benefited our hometown via projects funded by the Bani Association.
When asked what she intends to accomplish with her reign as the “Queen”, Josie looks back with fond memories of her humble beginnings in Bani. She remembers the simple life back then without the modern conveniences and distractions. “No. TV, no computers, cell phones, and no IPODS. I had to go to the library to do research while the reference books are outdated, about 10-20 years old already. I’d like to focus on education and lead the youth. I would also like to see Bani catch up with the 21st century”.
With a strong determination coupled with hard work, she has achieved her dreams, if
not the American Dream. This time, she wants to give back to the community and the people of Bani her God give talents and resources. “God has been good to me and Magno all these years and could not ask for anything more.” With her infectious laughter and constant smile, one becomes easily at ease with her. Her genuine concern about the younger generation seals her vision for a better Bani. “The youth must maintain the balance between keeping our values and tradition and being open to new technology to move forward.” Her renewed happiness goes beyond self and has crossed borders and boundaries for a better Bani. Josie is truly a Queen with a pure heart.
Visit the association website: www.banipang.org