About Remy

Remedios Estrada Chu’s life is a testament to resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication—a beacon of light for all who knew her. Born in 1955 and passing into eternity in 2014, her journey was a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of challenge, love, and triumph.

In a family of six children, the mantle of responsibility fell early on Remedios, affectionately known as Remy, when her father’s untimely death thrust her into the role of caregiver at the tender age of seven. As the second eldest, she was called upon to assist in caring for her siblings, and supporting their mother who tirelessly worked to sustain the family. Despite these early trials, Remy’s recollections of her childhood were imbued with warmth and joy, a testament to the strength and unity of her family.

A whirlwind elopement marked the beginning of Remy’s journey into adulthood, binding her life with a partner equally committed to overcoming adversity. Together, they navigated the challenges of higher education while raising a young family, their hard work and sacrifices culminating in both earning their college degrees. Remy’s passion for education led her to teach Physics at Marcelo H. Del Pilar High School in Malolos, Bulacan, where she became a cherished figure, nurturing young minds and leading the school’s Science Club to provincial acclaim.

Her professional journey took an unexpected turn when she joined the provincial postal service, where her remarkable capabilities propelled her to become the youngest Postmaster in the Philippines—a notable achievement in a male-dominated field. Her tenure was distinguished by commendation from the Post Master General Roilo Golez, a testament to her exceptional leadership and vision.

The narrative of Remy’s life took a poignant turn in the late ’70s, mirroring the challenges faced by many Filipinas of her time, as she navigated the complexities of being an OFW spouse. This period tested her resilience, mirroring the experience of many Filipinas of that era. Yet, the late ’80s brought renewal as the family reunited in Dubai, embarking on a new adventure. There, Remy returned to her first love—teaching—and played a pivotal role in founding the first Filipino school in the Emirates, weaving her legacy into the fabric of the expatriate community.

December 1992 marked the onset of Remy’s most daunting battle: a diagnosis of stage three non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, with a prognosis of six months. Yet, what was predicted as an end was but a new beginning. Embraced by her family’s unwavering support, Remy faced cancer with a warrior’s heart. Through remissions and recurrences, her spirit, fueled by an indomitable will to live and a profound faith, never waned. Remy’s philosophy, “If you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go. But if not, then just continue living; continue fighting if God knows you don’t want to die. Let him take charge of your life,” became a beacon of hope for those around her. Her conviction that she would continue to live, even with a “33% lifeline,” inspired all who heard her story.

The ensuing years saw Remy stepping into the most enriching phase of her life, witnessing her family grow and establishing educational institutions that reflected her passion and values. In 1999, she founded De La Salle Montessori, a nursery and daycare in Dubai, and later expanded her vision to the Philippines with a primary and high school in Longos, Bulacan. Additionally, her philanthropic spirit gave birth to “Bahay Aralan,” a preschool for underprivileged children, embodying her commitment to giving back to the community.

Remy’s final decade was a blend of joy and challenges, as she navigated her recurring illness with grace, spending her days between Dubai and Bulacan. She remained an energetic matriarch, educator, and philanthropist, cherished for her sunny disposition and generosity. Her influence extended beyond her family to the students and professionals she had mentored, who continued to seek her wisdom and company.

Reflecting on her journey, Remy mused, “I don’t remember how it felt those years; I can’t remember the hardships… All I know is that I am happy now and I feel loved.” Her legacy, marked by a 22-year battle with cancer and a lifetime of selfless giving, continues to inspire. Remy passed away on November 8, 2014, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and empowerment.

Her spirit, embodied in the lives of the countless individuals she touched, endures—a lasting tribute to a life well-lived.

Survived by her devoted husband, two siblings, three children and their spouses, and nine grandchildren who miss her dearly, Remedios Estrada Chu’s story is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the profound impact one life can have.