Remembering Marianne Haboc

On the first anniversary of her death, the local community remembered Marianne Haboc, who was tragically killed on 1 October 2018 by a careless driver.

A talented member of Rochdale Gymnastics Club since 2014, Marianne was also a year six pupil at St Patrick’s RC Primary School, which raised the national flag of the Philippines on the anniversary of her death.

Speaking about the flag raising, her parents, William and Joanne, said: “What a beautiful way of showing respect to the Filipino community here in the UK.

“Marianne Joy is a true hero of a young generation and we will continue her legacy and inspire many others by promoting her attributes and achievements through St. Patrick’s School, Rochdale Olympic Gymnastics Club, local clubs, GMP Rochdale and local communities.

“We will treat this act of kindness towards our community as ‘highly regarded and respected’. We haven’t seen something like this before, and it showed the true meaning of ‘peace day’.

“Having the Philippine flag raised in a foreign school and country means everything to us as Filipino.

“On behalf of our friends and the entire Filipino here and abroad, we are so humbled and privileged being with St. Patrick’s School family yesterday and promoting peace to each other.

“Thank you.”

 

 

The Rochdale Police Station tuck shop has donated over £100 pounds to the family, which has been donated to St Patrick’s Church, along with further donations from policing staff and officers.

A representative for Rochdale Police said: “Everyone here was in awe at the strength of Marianne’s parents and their determination to help others and raise money in their daughter’s name.

“To help with their cause, our tuck shop donated over one hundred pounds, which Marianne’s family have chosen to donate to St Patrick’s Church.”

Donation boxes will also be located across the police station for officers to bring in their old phones or jewellery.

Any proceeds raised will go to Rochdale Olympic Gymnastics Club, on behalf of Marianne’s family.

 

 

In a public letter, written on the anniversary of their daughter’s death, William and Joanne said: “It’s your anniversary and we don’t know how to put words into writing... We wanted you to know that you are not forgotten and will never be.

“We wanted to tell you how much you mean to everyone, even those you never met before.

“We never failed to pray and look after your toys at Taylor Street and a candle to lighten your way to heaven, although angels don’t need one.

“We learned a lot of things in life after you gained wings without hugs and goodbyes. The most important we learned is to share love to those who will appreciate it and never let anyone down.

“Aside from our love and commitments to you, we tried our best to continue your legacy alive by working with your school, gym and others even though it was difficult time for all of us.

“Don’t worry about your mama and papa as we surrounded with good friends who accepted us and stayed with us from day one to present. Some of your friends called us Mum and Dad too and we hope you don’t mind.

“Before ending our letter, we would like to ask your superior angel to trust you in more heavy and complicated jobs to do as you always love to ask.

“They created awards after your name from your school, gym and now in Philippines, ‘The Marianne Joy Haboc Award’.

“Hope this will reach the highest and brightest star in heaven.

“We love you infinity.”