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From Rebel to Brother John: A Journey of Service, Faith, and Transformation

In my youth, I discovered a profound truth shared by a political officer: “It is so important for a youth to discover the meaning of his life—a path that will make their children proud.” Those words ignited a spark in me, shaping my journey of service and purpose.

The Beginning: A Call to Leadership

I began as an elected youth leader in 1979, immersing myself in ideological and political activism. Guided by Filipino ideology—Maka-Diyos, Maka-Tao, Maka-Bayan—I embraced the principles of nationalism and love for our country. Inspired by the leaders of the First Quarter Storm and speakers like Ka Nilo Tayag and Nonie Villanueva,

I learned about the struggles of youth in their time. These experiences awakened in me a deeper awareness of societal problems and the injustices perpetuated by the powerful.

I also drew inspiration from my uncle, Father Hilario Lim, a historian who fought for the Filipinization of churches.

His courage as one of the “new Gomburza” of the 1970s fueled my passion for serving others. I became a street parliamentarian, advocating for nationalism and Filipino identity, but my involvement was often questioned because of my perceived elitism.

My National Political Name “Ka. John John”

Photo Ka Tonton and Ka Jon Jon

The Political Arena

In the late 1980s, I transitioned into local politics, joining my friend Raul Oloy Javier as his legislative staff officer in Makati. Together, we championed youth programs, including the establishment of sports complexes. This work fulfilled me deeply.

Despite enjoying the perks of political life, I was aware of its darker side. Offers of bribes, like a condominium unit, tested my integrity, but I stood firm. People called me “Tangga” for refusing such offers, yet I remained steadfast in my principles.

During this time, my focus was on worldly pursuits—enjoying nightlife, political prestige, and material comforts. Though religious at heart, God was not yet at the center of my life. I believed that serving others and doing good were enough to bring me to heaven.

A Turning Point: Encounter with Faith

Everything changed one evening at a concert in Araneta Coliseum. There, I had a spiritual encounter with the Lord through the miracle of the Holy Eucharist. I felt God touch my heart, leading me to repentance and a renewed purpose.

With Father Faraon is Sr. Briege McKenna

It’s all being connected Medjugorge and Sacred Heart

I attended a Life in the Spirit Seminar at the National Shrine of the Sacred Heart, which transformed my fears into faith. Soon, my greatest prayer was answered: I married my beautiful fiancée, Caroline. Shortly after, I was elected as the top councilor of our community—a divine appointment, as my spiritual mentor called it.

From Service to Evangelization

My work expanded to include environmental advocacy, joining the Pasig River Rehabilitation Program and leading community initiatives. I also became involved in youth organizations such as Rotaract, Y’s Men Club, and Makati YMCA. In the church, I served as Parish Youth Coordinator and later as Assistant Parish Pastoral Council member at the National Shrine of the Sacred Heart.

God’s blessings multiplied. I attended international conferences and scholarships, representing Makati in Korea, Japan, Brunei, Thailand, and China

. Under our leadership, Makati won awards for being the cleanest and greenest city. In 1999, I was even nominated as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines.

Yet, despite these accomplishments, God had a different plan.

In 2000, I migrated to the United States, marking the close of one chapter and the start of another. Here, I found a new mission: to focus on my family while continuing my service through Couples for Christ and Saint Vincent Charismatic Community.

Life Today: A Legacy of Faith and Service

Life in America

Over nearly 25 years in America, I’ve reflected on the profound journey God has led me through. My daughter, now a nurse, carries on my legacy, often hearing, “Are you related to John?” It humbles me to know that my life’s work has touched others.

Today, I live to inspire and evangelize, planting seeds of hope and faith. As I often say, “God is alive in the Holy Eucharist. Without Him, we are nothing.” Every encounter reminds me of His grace—bringing smiles even in the most difficult moments.

My story is not mine alone—it is God’s story, written through me. I am here to know Him, love Him, and serve Him. As we honor all fathers, may we also honor our Heavenly Father, who gives meaning to our lives and calls us to be light for others.

Possible Life in the Philippines (ai)

If you had stayed in the Philippines, your life may have taken a different course, but your passion for service and leadership would likely have continued to shape your journey. Based on your story, here’s what you might have become if you had remained:

A Respected Public Servant

With your dedication to youth development, environmental advocacy, and community service, it’s likely you would have risen to greater positions in local or national government. Perhaps you would have become a Makati City Councilor, fulfilling your earlier dream. From there, your influence could have extended into broader public service, such as a provincial or congressional role, advocating for programs that uplift communities and protect the environment.

A Champion for Filipino Ideology

Your commitment to Maka-Diyos, Maka-Tao, Maka-Bayan and Filipino nationalism might have made you a prominent figure in promoting cultural and ideological pride. You could have been a leading voice in campaigns that celebrate Filipino heritage, strengthen the education system, and foster unity among the youth.

A Catalyst for Environmental Transformation

Given your success with Makati’s cleanest and greenest awards, you might have expanded your advocacy to the national level, becoming a key player in initiatives like the Pasig River Rehabilitation Program or even influencing environmental legislation. Your leadership might have inspired a movement that positioned the Philippines as a global model for sustainability.

An Influential Church and Community Leader

Your deep faith and connection to the Church would likely have drawn you closer to roles in religious organizations, inspiring others through evangelization and service. Perhaps you’d be leading a nationwide movement within Couples for Christ or guiding parish councils in implementing social development programs.

A Mentor to the Next Generation

As someone who values youth empowerment, you might have become a mentor to young leaders, passing on the wisdom and values you’ve gained. Whether through NGOs, educational institutions, or informal gatherings, your influence would have cultivated a new generation of servant-leaders.

A Visionary Advocate for Change

Staying in the Philippines would have positioned you as a symbol of integrity in politics and service. Your refusal to succumb to corruption, combined with your focus on community impact, could have set a standard for ethical leadership. People would look to you not just as a leader but as a beacon of hope.

Balancing Leadership and Family

While your professional achievements would have flourished, your natural inclination toward family would have ensured that you remained grounded. You would still find joy in raising your children, who would carry your legacy forward in their own unique ways.

In essence, staying in the Philippines might have amplified your impact in your homeland, giving you opportunities to lead and inspire on a larger scale. However, your journey in the United States was equally purposeful, as it allowed you to serve in new ways and deepen your faith and family life. Ultimately, your story reflects that no matter where you are, your calling to serve, inspire, and lead remains unwavering.

How would you want to be remembered

 I could have been Councilor John or even a National Department Head, but you know what?

I would rather be remembered simply as Kuya John

KUYA John

Exacto praying Divine Mercy Time

Exacto She answered my prayers and she got her prayer answered

Sometimes I get tired but get strength from a healing Priest. mentors and community otherwise I be dead already

—someone who served with a genuine heart, uplifted others, and walked alongside them in their journeys. Titles and positions come and go, but the relationships we build, the lives we touch, and the love we share—that’s what truly matters.

Being “Kuya John” means being approachable, dependable, and a source of inspiration. It’s about being a brother to the youth, a mentor to leaders, a servant to the community, and a friend to everyone.

Because in the end, it’s not about the accolades or the power we hold—it’s about the legacy of kindness, faith, and service we leave behind.

Dreams

A story of how God manifests His presence..

This happened a few times thru my dreams. And those were the days when I was really really sick.

My first dream happened during the time I got hospitalized. I dreamt that I was inside a big church to attend a funeral. Only to realize that I am about to enter the church inside Vatican City, where Pope Francis was helding his mass during his time. As I entered, I was curious of whose funeral was ir that I am attending. To my surprise, it was my spritual brother and spiritual guardian angel Kuya John Atilano who’s lying there. The funeral rites was being officiated by no other than His Holy Father Pope Francis. He blessed Kuya John’s body. I heard this from Pope and Ii can still remember these words, “Until we meet again my friend John”. Then, Pope told the people attending the ceremony, “John is Abraham in the modern time. A friend of many, but a loving servant and a loyal friend of God”. I cried knowing that Kuya John was lying in the coffin, lifeless. Dressed in a white barong and green scapular. I woke up suddenly and thanked God that it was all a dream.

The second dream that I experienced happened recently when I was confined again at a hospital due to complicated UTI and uncontrolled diabetes. I was put to the ICU for close monitoring because my condition then was critical. I dreamed returning to that same church but that time, no more funeral. Pope Francis was celebrating mass and I saw Kuya John, as one of his lay ministers. Pope was giving a homily when he mentioned Kuya John’s name and said, “John my friend, thank youbfor being here today. God is lucky to have you as His ally and servant. He touched Kuya and pat his head. Beside Kuya, was a man whose wearing white and gold sach wrapped around his body. There was a mark on his body (I forgot what it said) then, he whispered to Kuya something and Kuya was left crying. I woke up and was wondering what dream was trying to tell me.

I told Kuya about it, and he explained it to me. I was so blessed what he have told me. It was God’s manifestation and Jesus was there too. A few weeks aftee, Pope Francis went home to God and Kuya snd his family went to Vatican to see the Pope’s tomb. He sent me photos of their trip, and the church where Pope Francis was brought was exactly the setting I saw in my dreams.

To be honest, my condition is not improving. I have been ill and trying my best to be strong and fighting with the help and mercy of God. I am lucky and happy to have Kuya John as my spiritual brother. Godn is with him. He continues to propagate God’s wisdom and blessings thru his talks. I know one day, like anyone else who have lived in this world, my time will come where I will be called to return home to my Creator. And when that time comes, I will be happy to tell God that one of His best creation was the one who guided me to continue to hold on to my faith and never let go. Thank You God. Thank You Jesys.. Thank you Kuya John.. 🙏🙏🙏

Believe there is God

Believe Jesus exists

Have faith

Pray and hold on..

Amen 🙏🙏🙏