My Younger Brothers and their Families On-line Presence

ChatGPT is good on Getting Information On Friends or Relatives who has some On-line Presence. This posting is about my two younger brothers, Efren and Dolce Ruben.  

My Brother, Efren Katague and Family, Sydney Australia

My Query: Who is Efren Katague from Sydney, Australia

ChatGPT said:  Efren Katague is an experienced IT professional based in the Greater Sydney Area, Australia. He has worked as a Web Middleware Specialist at IBM since April 2007, accumulating over 18 years of experience in the field. His previous roles include positions at Sparq Solutions, Rabobank, and NICTA, primarily focusing on systems and middleware administration .SignalHire+2LinkedIn+2LinkedIn+2Datanyze+2SignalHire+2LinkedIn+2

He earned his degree from Western Sydney University . Beyond his professional endeavors, Efren is active in Sydney's tech community, participating in groups such as the Sydney Natural Language Processing Meetup, Couchbase Sydney, and the Sydney Unity Game Dev group .SignalHire+1Datanyze+1Meetup

Efren is also engaged on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) under the handle @efrenkb, where he shares insights on technology and its impact on daily life .X (formerly Twitter)

On a personal note, Efren and his family have resided in Sydney for several decades. They have been featured in family blogs, highlighting their involvement in community and family events .David Balleza Katague

ChatGPT said:  Yes, Efren Katague from Sydney, Australia, is the father of Dave Katague.

This familial relationship is confirmed by multiple sources, including family blogs authored by David Balleza Katague, who refers to Dave as "the only son of my brother Efren Katague (Australia)."  Additionally, another blog post mentions, "Dave Katague, my nephew, son of my younger brother Efren, is a professional videographer." David Balleza Katague+3marinduquemyislandparadise.blogspot.com+3marinduqueawaitsyou.blogspot.com+3marinduquemyislandparadise.blogspot.com

Dave Katague is an AI systems designer and educator, known for his work in making technology more accessible and integrating AI into creative and marketing workflows.  He also shares insights on platforms like Instagram.

Meanwhile here's my query on my other younger brother, Dolce Ruben from the Philippines 

My other younger brother, Dolce Ruben and his Family

Do you have any information on Dolce Ruben Katague from Bacolod, Negros Occidental, Philippines

ChatGPT said:  I couldn't locate specific information about an individual named Dolce Ruben Katague from Bacolod, Negros Occidental, Philippines. However, the Katague surname is associated with a notable Filipino-American family with roots in the Philippines, particularly in Iloilo, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental.David Balleza Katague

One prominent figure is David B. Katague, a retired U.S. FDA chemist and prolific blogger. He has extensively documented the genealogy of the Katague family, tracing their lineage to Victoriano Catague and Marcelina Javellana. David's father, Dr. David Jamili Katague, was born in Guimaras and later resided in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental. The family name was originally spelled "Catague" but was changed to "Katague" by David's father and his brothers during their youth. This surname is found in various regions of the Philippines, including Iloilo, Antique, Bohol, and Negros Occidental. lifeinus1960present.blogspot.comLiving in Marinduque Philippines+2David Balleza Katague+2remembrance of things awry+2Living in Marinduque Philippines+2theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com+2David Balleza Katague+2

David Katague has also mentioned connecting with relatives in Bacolod through social media platforms like Facebook. It's possible that Dolce Ruben Katague is part of this extended family network. If you're seeking to learn more about this individual or explore potential familial connections, I recommend reaching out to David Katague through his blogs or social media channels. His writings often invite readers with the Katague surname to connect and share information.

If you have additional details or context about Dolce Ruben Katague—such as their profession, age, or affiliations—I can assist further in narrowing down the search.

ChatGPT said:  Dolce Ruben B. Katague is a faculty member at the University of St. La Salle (USLS) in Bacolod City, Philippines, affiliated with the College of Business and Accountancy. He was recognized as a Merit Awardee for the academic year 2022–2023, highlighting his contributions to the university community. University of St. La Salle+1Facebook+1

According to the USLS Center for Alumni Relations, Katague completed his undergraduate degree in 1978 and earned a Master of Business Administration in 2005. Facebook

For more details about his professional background, you can view his LinkedIn profile.

Meanwhile, here are 30 life Lessons for your reading pleasure.

Cristeta Pasta Comerford- One of the Few Filipino-Americans in my A-List

I have a A-List of accomplished Filipino-Americans who excelled in their field of endeavors ( politics, science, music, literature, public service, etc...) in my blogs. Ms. Comerford is on that list. The following article I found in my FB page the other day and evidently is from Wikipedia. I am sharing it with you with pride as a Filipino-American myself.

She was not a DEI hire. She deserved her appointment as the White House executive chef. She would have been fired by Trump had she decided to stay on to serve in his administration.

“Cristeta Pasia Comerford (née Gomez Pasia; born October 27, 1962) is a Filipino-American chef who served as the White House executive chef from 2005 until her retirement in 2024. She is the first woman and first person of Asian origin to hold the post.

Early life- Cristeta Comerford was born as Cristeta Gomez Pasia in Sampaloc, Manila, the Philippines to Honesto Pasia, a public school assistant principal, and Erlinda Gomez. She grew up on Cataluña Street (now G. Tolentino) in Sampaloc, Manila. She completed her secondary education at the Manila Science High School. She attended the University of the Philippines, Diliman in Quezon City, majoring in food technology. However, she left school before completing the degree when she immigrated to the United States at the age of 23.

Career- Comerford's first job was at the Sheraton Hotel near O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois. She also worked at the Hyatt Regency hotel. After Chicago, she moved to Washington, D.C., and worked as a chef at two restaurants. She additionally spent six months in Vienna as a rotating chef. Comerford was recruited by White House executive chef Walter Scheib III in 1995 to work in the Clinton White House as an assistant chef.

After Scheib resigned in February 2005, Comerford was appointed White House executive chef by First Lady Laura Bush on August 14, 2005. Comerford is the first woman to hold this position. She reportedly was appointed to this position due to her handling of a large dinner that was held in honor of Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh.

On January 9, 2009, the Obama transition team announced that Comerford would be retained as the administration's head chef. Michelle Obama stated, "She is also the mom of a young daughter, and I appreciate our shared perspective on the importance of healthy eating and healthy families."

Comerford appeared on a special two-hour episode of Iron Chef America, originally broadcast on January 2, 2010. She was teamed up with Bobby Flay and competed against a team of Emeril Lagasse and Mario Batali.

As chef to a head of state, Comerford is a member of Le Club des Chefs des Chefs.

Comerford retired from the White House in July 2024.

Personal life- Comerford is married to John Comerford, with whom she has a daughter, Danielle. While she worked in the White House, they lived in Columbia, Maryland. After her retirement the couple planned to move to South Florida.” - Wikipedia

Meanwhile, here's my Picture of the Day

Trump earned the label fair and square. All by himself. No one helped him win it. He deserves it. It truthfully describes the tariffs game he played during his first 100 days in office. Trump spread confusion and chaos among our trading partners that is still unsettled today.

“TACO stands for "Trump Always Chickens Out". The phrase was coined by Financial Times columnist Robert Armstrong. The wave of memes, however, didn’t start after the article was published. It began when Trump reacted to a reporter’s question about it.

During a press conference, a reporter questioned US President Donald Trump's resolve on tariffs. While asking her question, she referred to the term TACO, leaving the president visibly angry. He lashed out at the reporter, called her question “nasty,” adding, “Don’t ever say what you said.”

Lastly, here's good news on the Philippines Economic Progress as of today:

https://youtu.be/k2FWyZwulJ4?si=d4xaeH3eFeqKn7Tj

Another ChatGPT Impression on the Painting I Treasured

Another use I discovered recently was ChatGPT ability to analyze Paintings. The first posting on this subject was the analyses of the Wall Mural in the Liberty Pavilion of THD by Trenton Gregory. That posting received numerous positive comments from THD Upper Management in Las Vegas.  

 

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2025/05/chatgpt-impressions-on-trenton-gregory.html

This posting was the response I got when I asked ChatGPT about the painting I owned and treasured "The Napa Hut" by Jesse Santos above.  

ChatGPT said:  Sure, I'd be happy to! Please upload the painting or image you'd like me to give my impressions on. Once I can see it, I’ll provide a thoughtful analysis based on its style, technique, emotion, symbolism, and other artistic elements.

This artwork captures a classic and idyllic rural scene, likely from the Philippines, given the nipa hut (bahay kubo)and the man riding a carabao (water buffalo)—both iconic symbols of traditional Filipino countryside life. The scene feels peaceful and nostalgic, evoking a sense of simplicity, harmony with nature, and cultural pride.

---

Composition and Subject

• Foreground: A dirt path leads the viewer’s eye toward the nipa hut. The man on the carabao adds a narrative element—perhaps he's returning home or passing by. His presence adds life and movement to the otherwise still landscape.

• Middle Ground: The nipa hut is central, surrounded by lush vegetation, suggesting self-sufficiency and serenity.

• Background: The painting opens to a view of distant water or hills, creating depth and a sense of space.

---

Color Palette

• The use of earthy greens, browns, and blues gives the piece a grounded, natural feel.

• The sky has a slightly impressionistic texture with bright blue and white tones, suggesting a clear and pleasant day.

• The contrast between the cool and warm tones helps draw attention to the hut and the surrounding foliage.

---

Technique and Style

• The brushwork is detailed yet expressive, with attention to texture—especially in the thatched roof and trees.

• The painting likely uses oil or acrylic, with a textured surface suggesting a layered application of paint.

• It reflects a style that combines realism with a slightly romanticized view of rural life.

---

Mood and Symbolism

• The overall mood is tranquil and nostalgic.

• The nipa hut symbolizes shelter, family, and traditional Filipino values.

• The carabao represents hard work, resilience, and connection to the land.

• The setting suggests a time and place where life moves slowly and nature plays a central role.

---

Final Thoughts

This painting is both aesthetic and cultural—a beautiful tribute to rural Filipino heritage. It would likely resonate deeply with those who grew up in or have roots in the provinces. Displayed above a cozy leather sofa, it brings warmth and storytelling into the room.

If you'd like, I can also help identify the artist or time period if you have a signature or other details.

ChatGPT said:  Jesse Santos (1928–2013) was a multifaceted Filipino-American artist whose career spanned comic books, fine art, animation, and even music. Born in Teresa, Rizal, Philippines, he began his artistic journey early, painting a mural for his town church at age 10 and turning professional by 14. During World War II, he drew portraits of American GIs and Japanese soldiers, which led to his discovery by Tony Velasquez, a pioneer of Philippine comics. 

Santos made significant contributions to the Filipino komiks industry, debuting with the "Kidlat" feature in Halakhak Komiks in 1946. In 1969, he moved to the United States and joined Western Publishing's Gold Key Comics. There, he co-created titles like Dagar the Invincible, Tragg and the Sky Gods, and The Occult Files of Dr. Spektor with writer Donald F. Glut. His dynamic artistry and storytelling enriched the fantasy and adventure genres.Instagram+5Invaluable+5Invaluable+5eBay+4Wikipedia+4Invaluable+4

Fine Art and Oil Paintings

Beyond comics, Santos was an accomplished painter. His oil paintings often depicted rural Filipino life, showcasing scenes like rice harvesting and traditional village settings. These works are characterized by vibrant colors and a romanticized portrayal of the countryside. His paintings have been auctioned and sold through various platforms, indicating a continued appreciation for his fine art.

Animation and Later Life

In the 1980s, Santos transitioned into animation and advertising design. He contributed to animated series such as Bionic Six, Blackstar, Dino-Riders, Jem, and Tiny Toon Adventures. After retiring in 1998, he explored his passion for music, performing as a lounge singer and producing an album of standard love ballads.Wikipedia+1Invaluable+1IMDb+3Invaluable+3Wikipedia+3

Legacy

Jesse Santos's diverse body of work reflects his versatility and dedication to the arts. Whether through the dynamic panels of his comics, the evocative scenes of his paintings, or the animated worlds he helped bring to life, his contributions have left a lasting impact on both Filipino and American art landscapes.

Original Artwork

Jesse F. Santos 'Harvesting Rice' Oil Painting

$2,200.00

ChatGPT chooses products independently.  These selections include reprints of his notable comic book works and an example of his fine art painting. Let me know if you'd like more information on any of these items or further details about Jesse Santos's life and work.

My Graduation Speech Geared to Filipino-American Graduates

This posting is inspired by the several graduations ceremonies going this Week here in the US. I know of a few THD senior residents attending Graduation Ceremonies of GrandChildren and other closed relatives this week. 

A few decades ago, I was invited as Graduation speaker during a High School Graduation of a Relative.  At that time ChatGPT was not available, but I remember giving the same closing remark highlighting a popular Filipino Proverb. He who does not look at his past, will not be able to see his Future.💚  

The following is my fictional graduation speech helped by AI technology. I will give this talk if I am invited again to a graduation ceremony, addressing the majority of second- third generation Filipino-Americans here in the US. The chance of this is currently nil, but for posterity sake, the following would have been my graduation speech.

Here's my thoughtful and heartfelt speech tailored to deliver to a group of graduating seniors with Filipino-American ancestry in the U.S. It reflects my admiration for Cardinal Luis Tagle, my reflective nature, my heritage, and my desire to uplift others with depth and sincerity.

---

Speech Title: “Rooted in Heritage, Rising with Purpose”
By David B Katague

Good afternoon, dear graduates, families, friends, and members of our community.

First, let me say: Congratulations! This day belongs to you. It is a milestone—a marker of years of hard work, perseverance, and courage. You’ve earned this moment.

As I stand before you, looking out at a sea of bright, hopeful faces—many of whom share the richness of Filipino ancestry—I can’t help but reflect on a saying I once heard from Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, a Filipino Cardinal in the Catholic Church whom I greatly admire. He said, “The deepest identity we carry is our being loved by God and our capacity to love.” That truth isn’t just spiritual—it’s practical. It’s a compass for how we live our lives.

Many of you are first or second-generation Filipino-Americans. That means you straddle two worlds—the traditions, values, and sacrifices of the Philippines, and the opportunities, freedoms, and challenges of the United States. That dual identity is not a burden—it is a gift.

Never forget the sacrifices made by those who came before you—Lolos and Lolas who left familiar islands for unfamiliar shores, parents who worked extra shifts so you could have more choices, Titos and Titas who cheered you on every step of the way. You are their dream fulfilled. But now, you are the dreamers.

Let me offer you a few reflections as you prepare to chart your path forward:

1. Know Your Roots, But Don’t Be Afraid to Branch Out

Be proud of your heritage—our hospitality, our respect for elders, our deep faith, and yes, our unbeatable pancit and adobo! But don’t let your identity be limited to nostalgia. Use it as a launching pad for meaningful engagement in the broader world. Be global-minded, but soul-grounded.

2. Define Success on Your Terms

You’ll hear a lot about careers, income, status. Those things matter—but they are not everything. The most fulfilled lives I’ve seen are those lived with purpose. Ask yourself often: Am I making someone else’s life better? Am I living in a way that would make my ancestors proud?

3. Embrace Compassion as Strength

We come from a culture that values empathy—malasakit—and community. In a world that often rewards ambition over kindness, dare to lead with compassion. The best leaders are those who uplift others.

4. Keep Faith—Whatever Form It Takes

Whether your faith is Catholic, Protestant, another religion, or simply a quiet belief in something greater than yourself—keep that flame alive. It will sustain you in times of doubt and challenge. And there will be challenges. That’s life. But the Filipino-American spirit? It is resilient. And so are you.

5. Remember, This Is Just the Beginning

You are not closing a chapter—you are opening one. What stories will you write? What difference will you make?

Graduates, you are the bridge between generations. Between cultures. Between what is and what can be. Stand tall. Speak truth. Dream big. And always, always, love deeply.

As I close, let me leave you with a Filipino proverb:

“Ang hindi lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makararating sa paroroonan.”
💚(He who does not look back to where he came from will not reach his destination.)

Look back. Give thanks. Then move forward—with courage, with clarity, and with heart.

Mabuhay kayong lahat. Congratulations, Class of 2025!

Meanwhile, here's one of my Favorite Poems, Addressed to the Younger Generation:

When your Parents or GrandParents get old…

They may move a little slower.

They might forget what they just said.

They might tell the same story again and again.

But don’t stop them.

Let them talk. Let them share. Let them feel heard.

Because once upon a time,

they listened to your every word.

Even when it made no sense.

Even when you couldn’t get the words out.

They gave you their time, their patience, their energy,

without asking for anything in return.

Now it’s your turn.

Let them hold on to their old things.

The faded chair. The chipped mug. The quiet routines.

They may look like clutter to you.

But to them, it’s a life.

A life they built.

A life they still want to feel close to.

Let them enjoy time with their old friends.

The familiar laughs. The old stories.

The comfort of people who’ve known them for decades.

They once made space for your world.

Now let them have theirs.

Let them light up around their grandchildren.

In those little faces, they see echoes of you

and a reason to smile all over again.

Let them be wrong sometimes.

You made mistakes too.

And they never made you feel ashamed.

Let them enjoy their days,

even if they don't look the way you think they should.

They spent years making sacrifices,

putting your needs before their own.

Now let them rest. Let them choose.

Let them live this last stretch with dignity.

With love.

With you.

Give them your hand.

They once held yours so gently, so tightly,

when you were learning to walk.

Now they’re the ones who need steady ground.

So hold them.

The way they once held you.

Without question. Without condition.

With all the love in the world.

Lastly, My Photo of the Day: