My father’s legacy of integrity, family, and faith

Nov. 1 is not only All Saints’ Day — it’s also a day of joyful remembrance. It marks the birthday of Benjamin “Amen” M. Gozon, our beloved Tatay — a man whose life of honesty, humility, and devotion continues to guide our family.

This year, we celebrated by visiting the Manila Cemetery ahead of the crowd and gathering for lunch on Nov. 2. Granddaughter Annette Gozon Valdez used AI to bring old photos to life in our family chat — sparking laughter, tears, and nostalgia. Inspired, Ate Kay gathered more vintage pictures, and her son Menardo “Butch” Jimenez turned them into a moving video of memories that reminded us what a rare man our Tatay truly was.

Tatay, a lawyer, served as Director of Mines for 14 years, Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources under President Diosdado Macapagal, and Governor of the Land Authority, the forerunner of the Department of Agrarian Reform. He became the first non-engineer Director of Mines — a testament to his diligence. “Every task assigned to me, I studied well” he would say. His dedication and fairness earned him respect.

During his term as Director of Mines, I recall a major corruption case — the Harry Stonehill scandal dominated the headlines. Yet Tatay slept soundly. His principle was simple: “The softest pillow is a clear conscience.” He lived by that, keeping his reputation spotless throughout his government career. Today when we see integrity compromised, his life reminds us that success is measured not by wealth or titles.

When President Diosdado Macapagal appointed him to the Cabinet, Tatay himself was surprised as the President didn’t even know him personally. It was his staff’s testimony about his honesty and diligence that opened the door. A testament that when we do right or wrong, it will eventually get known. When he was Governor of the Land Authority, one of his first acts was to expropriate my mother’s (Carolina “Arling”  Lapus  Gozon ) inherited rice lands in Nueva Ecija — proof that official duty came before family.

Beyond public service, Tatay was a devoted husband and father. My mother “Arling” was a hardworking businesswoman and family disciplinarian. When her temper showed, Tatay would gently remind us: “Your mother works very hard for all of you and thinks of nothing else but her children.” He modeled respect and understanding in marriage — a quiet strength that grounded our home. Four of us children — Benjamin Gozon, Jr., Carolina “Kay Gozon Jimenez,” Felipe “Henry Gozon,” and myself — believed and truly felt we were the favorite. Family matters counselor Bishop Jonel Milan said: “Your father was a natural “psychologist. He treated each child uniquely, knowing what mattered most to each one.”

From his travels, he gave me the Nancy Drew book series, my favorite in the elementary school.  Ate Kay, the eldest daughter, was made to feel special and responsible. Kuya Ben carried the pride of being his namesake and firstborn, and Henry, the youngest son, had his own tender place in Tatay’s heart.

He taught by encouragement. When I struggled in math, he simply said: “Kaya mo ’yan. Wala akong anak na bumabagsak.” So, I studied harder — and passed. When granddaughter Laurie (now Jimenez Westfall),as a toddler would throw tantrums and bump her head in the wall. Tatay called her “Baet” (“good girl”). And… she actually became one.

Tatay’s wisdom lives on in his simple, powerful reminders: Always do the best in everything you do. Aim high, and if you achieve 50% of what you want in life, consider yourself blessed. Spend wisely and with gratitude. Huwag ubos-ubos biyaya. He practiced financial discipline. Every Christmas he took his grandchildren for shopping. If they chose beyond the budget, he gently squeezed their hand — the cue to look for something else. He taught to live within your means, contentment, and stewardship without a single lecture. He lived his faith quietly and deeply. He read the Bible several times. He treated everyone with respect and warmth.

His 14 grandchildren, his treasures, are now  grown and ALL well accomplished. From Ben Jr.: Belinda Madrid, Mylene Gana, Benjie and Nicky; from Kay Jimenez: Butch, Joel, Laurie, and Carmen Ong; from Felipe “Henry”: Annette, Philip, Maritess Viterbo; and from me: Edmin, Ted and Tricia Valderrama.

We remember Tatay as a model of integrity, service, and faith. His life is a blessing, an inspiration we remember with love and fondness on All Saints’ Day, his birthday.

The views expressed herein are her own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of her office as well as FINEX.

Flor G. Tarriela is the youngest of the children of Benjamin M. Gozon. She is a finance and banking professional. She founded Flor’s Garden in Antipolo.