Mama Delia De Los Santos Casano, a name that will forever be etched in the hearts of her family and the countless lives she touched, was a remarkable woman. As a mother to three wonderful sons—Fielnino Casano, Christian Casano, and Jonathan Casano—and a devoted wife to Domingo Casano, her legacy is one of deep love, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to her family and career.
Her journey as a mother and a professional was nothing short of extraordinary. Mama Delia was a nurturing figure not only to her children but to the many students whose lives she shaped as a teacher. She began her career at Naga Parochial School, and later, she moved to Naga College Foundation, where she became an admired and respected teacher. She eventually rose to the position of Head Guidance Counselor, a role that perfectly encapsulated her passion for nurturing young minds and guiding them toward a brighter future.
The admiration she earned from colleagues, students, and parents alike was no surprise to those who knew her. She had a natural gift for connecting with people, understanding their struggles, and offering wisdom with the kindest heart. She didn’t just give advice; she gave comfort, encouragement, and hope, becoming a pillar of strength for those around her.
One of my fondest memories of Mama Delia was when she would take me to her school whenever I didn’t have classes. It was there that I saw firsthand how beloved she was by her students and fellow teachers. To me, though, she was more than a mentor or a guide—she was home. Her presence brought a sense of warmth and security that is irreplaceable. It’s a memory I carry with me every day.
Sundays with Mama Delia were a sacred tradition. After attending Mass at the Naga Cathedral, we would head to LCC Supermall in Tabuco for ice cream. These simple moments of joy, shared over sweet treats and laughter, became the highlights of our week. Even with my father working abroad in Saudi Arabia, Mama Delia ensured that our family remained close-knit and grounded in love. She was both mother and father to us, raising us from elementary school until we completed our education. Her strength during those years was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her family.
In her free time, Mama Delia found solace in gardening. Her favorite color, yellow, seemed to reflect her own nature—bright, cheerful, and full of life. She had a green thumb, and watching her care for her plants was like seeing her nurture everything she loved. It was a reflection of who she was: a person who could make anything flourish with her care and attention. Gardening was her sanctuary, a quiet hobby that allowed her to connect with nature and find peace in the simple act of helping something grow.
She also had a soft spot for sweet things. Whether it was a small dessert after a meal or a comforting treat in the afternoon, sweets were her little indulgence. Her love for sweet things also extended to her passion for cooking. Every Peñafrancia Fiesta, she would lovingly prepare a feast for the family, with her signature dishes always taking center stage. One of the highlights of these celebrations was her Amazing Fiesta Fruit Salad, a dish that has now become a cherished family tradition.
Here’s her recipe:
Delia’s Amazing Fiesta Fruit Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (836g each) fruit cocktail, drained
- 1 cup nata de coco (optional)
- 1 cup kaong (optional)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup fresh apples, diced
- 1 cup fresh mangoes, diced
- 1 can (300ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (250ml) all-purpose cream (or heavy cream)
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the fruit cocktail, nata de coco, kaong, pineapple chunks, apples, and mangoes.
- Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and all-purpose cream, stirring gently to coat the fruits evenly.
- Add in the grated cheddar cheese, mini marshmallows, and raisins. Mix well but carefully to avoid breaking the fruits.
- Chill the fruit salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld together.
- Before serving, sprinkle the top with crushed graham crackers for added texture.
- Serve cold and enjoy the sweetness of tradition in every bite.
For me, this fruit salad was more than just a dish—it was a symbol of the love and warmth that filled our home. Each bite carried with it the sweetness of memories spent with her, gathered around the table during special occasions.
Beyond her love for gardening and cooking, Mama Delia had a passion for old movies. She could often be found watching Cinema One, reliving the timeless stories that she adored. It was another way she found joy in the little things, savoring the simple pleasures of life. Her gentleness, her laughter, and her love for her family filled every corner of our lives.
Above all, what stands out most about Mama Delia was her kindness. She was truly the kindest person I have ever known. There wasn’t a soul she met that she didn’t treat with respect and compassion. Her heart was open to everyone, and she never hesitated to offer help, advice, or just a listening ear. In a world that sometimes felt too harsh, she was a beacon of light—a gentle, loving presence that made everything better.
As we continue to navigate life without her physical presence, we carry her spirit with us in every step. She has left behind not only memories but lessons of love, strength, and kindness. She showed us what it means to live a life rooted in love, to care for others deeply, and to always find joy in the small, simple moments.
Mama Delia, you are forever in our hearts. Your legacy lives on in the love you have instilled in us, and we will continue to honor you by living with the same kindness and grace that you so effortlessly embodied.
Thank you for everything, Mama. We miss you dearly, but we find comfort knowing that you are watching over us, your light guiding us just as it always has.