Mateo V. Alcantara, Jr.

Mateo was born in Sara, Iloilo Philippines on June 20, 1945. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from Central Philippine University and his Bachelor of Science Degree in Sanitary Engineering from FEATI University. After graduation, Mateo joined the Department of Public Works and Highways in Manila as a Civil Engineer Aide. With hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks and became the OIC Assistant Director of Bureau of Material and Quality Control.

He will be best remembered for his honesty, discipline, and dedication. Professionally, Mateo always chose to uphold an ethical standard unmatched by others. He valued his work and integrity far beyond any opportunity for wealth. The success he had in his career was earned through education, skill, and persistence. Personally, Mateo instilled the same values to his two children, BJ and Iris. They grew up with a deep understanding of how important it is to be a person of integrity.

Mateo loved life. He enjoyed basketball, food, singing, and traveling. His favorite basketball team was the Lakers. Like a true Filipino, his favorite food was lechon. As a young man, Mateo traveled all over the Philippines. Wherever he went, his love of song followed. He especially liked Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and The Platters. Most of all, Mateo enjoyed good company. Though an introvert, he valued spending time with his family and friends, and loved a good laugh. He was a generous husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. He was always willing to help those in need, often times taking the extra step of making sure his contributions were put to good use. In 1990, Mateo and his family came to the United States of America, eventually settling in Rialto, CA. He made the difficult decision to leave his home and his career of 26 years in order to give his children a better future. His sacrifice speaks to his generous spirit.