Virginita Buhay Deegan

I was born 70 summers ago in Tacloban City, Philippines. My childhood was spent in Surigao City, where I attended elementary school before completing high school in Leyte. I then pursued my college education in Manila. Due to my father’s work in the telecommunications industry, our family frequently relocated across Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon. I come from a large family, with six brothers and one sister. I am a devoted mother, sister, wife, and grandmother. Of my three children, only one—a daughter—survived. She graduated from St. Theresa’s College with a degree in Mass Communication and has blessed me with four wonderful grandchildren. I was widowed but found love again and remarried in 2010. Professionally, I began my career as an agent and was later promoted to a managerial position at a company in Cebu. I also ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing a small furniture business in Cebu, which I eventually closed after my remarriage. A devout Catholic, I have always been deeply engaged in my faith. I co-founded the He Is Lord Community and served as the treasurer of the Parish Pastoral Council in Guadalupe, Cebu City. I was also a speaker for the Life in the Spirit Seminar and held the position of treasurer for the Rotary Club of Cebu Minglanilla. My commitment extended to various civic and religious organizations, including: The International Women’s Club of Cebu The Angel Society of Cebu The Schoenstatt Sisters in Guadalupe, where I worked as a catechist Alongside my British husband, I dedicated myself to helping others. Together, we volunteered at Casa Miani, an orphanage in the Philippines, where we taught guitar to children and seminarians. We also took part in feeding programs for the underprivileged in our community. My volunteer work extended beyond the Philippines. In England, I contributed as a: Victim Support Assistant at the Derby Crown Court Volunteer for Save the Children Director for Investing in Alnwick Member of the Justice and Peace Team at Sacred Heart Parish & St. Cuthbert in Amble I also serve as a Eucharistic Minister, distributing Holy Communion during Mass and bringing it to sick parishioners who are unable to attend church. In my personal time, I enjoy writing and reading books that inspire and impart valuable lessons. My hobbies include gardening, cooking, walking, dancing, and listening to music.