“Whatever kind of branch I was, I am, and will become, I am assured that I am connected to the True Vine — the Source of Life.”
These words, penned by S. Maria Anita in her journal, capture the essence of her life as a Religious of the Virgin Mary. Her journey was not a straight line of easy successes, but a winding path of "Gardens and Deserts" that she walked with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of total surrender.
On the evening of December 18, 2025, S. Maria Anita Talbo peacefully answered the final call of the Lord she served so faithfully for sixty years. A woman of elegance, discipline, and unwavering devotion, she leaves behind a legacy of "hundredfold rewards" born from a life of sacrifice and profound love.
A Daughter of Samar
Born on May 19, 1945, in Basey, Western Samar, Anita was the second of four children born to Patricio Talbo and Engracia Morrero. She was raised alongside two sisters and a younger brother. Growing up, her family was sustained by the coconut groves and agricultural crops of their land. These early years taught her the value of hard work and the steady rhythms of a life rooted in faith.
Her journals reveal that her trust in God as the "Good Provider" was forged in these formative years, particularly as her family weathered calamities through sheer faith. Though her grace led her to be chosen as a high school Muse—a moment of beauty that briefly tested her path—her heart never strayed from its true north.
A Journey of Purification and Purpose
Anita’s journey to the convent was paved with diligence. As a student at Divine Word College, she rose early to cook for her family before finding quiet moments in the school chapel. At age twenty, she fulfilled her "only ambition": to wear the "long immaculate habit."
While she candidly admitted in her writings that her initial motivations may have been "natural or human," she celebrated how the Lord purified her intentions over time. Her identity became firmly rooted in her vocation as an RVM Sister, looking to Mother Ignacia and Mother Mary as her constant guides.
Gardens, Deserts, and the "Second Life"
S. Maria Anita’s apostolic life was a cycle of what she called "Gardens and Deserts." She viewed her fruitful service as Provincial Econome in Davao as a "beautiful garden." However, she showed remarkable spiritual maturity by later accepting her deteriorating health and her eventual transfer to St. Joseph Home as a new kind of mission.
After surviving a serious illness, she embraced what she called a "second life," finding joy in serving through "little things in her own little way." She proved that her vocation was ultimately about being rather than just doing.
Rooted in the True Vine
For S. Maria Anita, Jesus was not a distant figure but her "Source of Life." She lived as a branch firmly attached to the Vine, especially during "dark moments" and "painful waiting." She was deeply moved by the humanity of Jesus, particularly His "disfigured face" and the "shattered dignity" He endured during His Passion.
This intimacy fueled her desire to adopt His qualities: kind-heartedness, compassion, and a non-judgmental heart. Inspired by Jesus washing the feet of His disciples—including the one who would betray Him—she made it her mission to serve others without counting the cost.
The Strength of a Silent "Fiat"
S. Maria Anita was the embodiment of a "neat and refined" personality. Known for her professional, respectful, and deeply considerate nature, she mirrored the strength and serenity of Mama Mary. She often "accompanied" Mary at the foot of the Cross, striving to mirror the Blessed Mother's Fiat in the face of her own physical pain.
She bore her burdens with rare quiet fortitude, never wishing to worry those around her. Following a fall on the morning of December 17, she was brought to The Medical City. Even then, she remained the silent pillar of strength the Sisters had always known. At 6:03 in the evening of December 18, her heart—which had beaten so fervently for the Lord—found its eternal rest.
A Simple and Humble Legacy
S. Marla Anita’s journals are filled with a spirituality of gratitude. She found God in every detail, from the care of a kind nurse to a stable internet connection for a retreat. Her deepest wish was simple: "I wish, when I die, people remember me as a simple and humble RVM Sister."
Today, we can say with certainty that her prayer was answered. We remember her not for the titles she held, but for her "Fiat"—her "Yes" to the will of God in both the sunshine and the storm. She has returned to the Source of Life, the True Vine, where there are no more deserts, only the eternal garden of the Father’s house.
Voices of Gratitude: Tributes from the Hearts She Inspired
S. Maria Anita was a truly kind-hearted Sister. As the Finance Officer, she was remarkably proactive — she would personally follow up the approved loans, advances, or funds for laboratory needs and seminars. Her stay in Baliuag lasted only two years, and though she was meant for a third year, she requested a transfer after a mysterious incident. Mang Rufing and others claimed to have seen her walking toward the waste area in the middle of the night, appearing to float—yet the Sisters confirmed she was sound asleep in her room. This 'doppelgänger' moment became a legendary part of her story. Rest in peace, S. Maria Anita. — Rodel De la Peña, Baliuag, Bulacan
Having known S. Maria Anita Talbo since my Junior years, I gratefully acknowledge her inspiring examples – expressed in both words and works, in her very being and doing. She truly lived up to the meaning of her name, “grace” or “blessing,” and to her nickname “Puti,” which evokes simplicity, transparency, clarity and neatness.
She embodied mindfulness and gracefulness, always connoting kindness. Whether in small or large tasks, her approach was marked by steadiness, conscientiousness, and carefulness. As an Econome, she practiced frugality with creativity and imagination. Her approach to entrepreneurship was classic: slow, small, simple, sure, steady.
She was ever willing to accompany others in their vulnerabilities, seeming to have mastered the art of being present - to the present moment, and to and for others. Her attentive listening was balm to troubled hearts, and she displayed insight into people’s character. Though she often spoke little with her characteristic small voice, when she did, her humor was unfailingly spot on – exactly right, perfectly accurate, and delightfully apt. — A Companion from Her Earliest Years in the RVM
S. Maria Anita (S. Puti), whom we fondly call Tiya Nita, was more than just an aunt to us. She was like a second mother—a generous, pleasant, and selfless soul who gave not only to her family but to everyone around her.
We will never forget her smile, her gentle voice, and the way she helped shape who we are today. We are forever inspired by her immeasurable kindness and her life as a woman of faith, love, and inspiration. Though she is no longer with us physically, her memory will live in our hearts forever.
We thank the Lord for the gift of Tiya Nita’s life. Rest in peace, Tita. We love you so much. — Boleche-Yanto-Talbo Family
Ang hindi ko malilimutang karanasan kay S. Puti ay ang kanyang walang hanggang kabutihan. Siya ay mapagmahal, maunawain, at higit sa lahat, laging handang makinig. Tuwing mayroon akong pinagdaraanan, nariyan siya para magbigay ng payo at gabay kung paano harapin nang may katatagan ang mga hamon ng buhay.
Malaki ang pasasalamat ko sa kanya dahil sa lahat ng kabutihang ipinamalas niya sa akin; hinding-hindi ko siya makakalimutan. Dalangin ko na patuloy niya akong gabayan mula sa kabilang buhay. — Laarni Quicay
Mana Puti was a remarkable individual who embodied dedication, kindness, and faith. She was a model of punctuality, always arriving on time for work, except when illness prevented her from doing so. Whether it was the 7:30 AM morning shift or the 1:30 PM afternoon duty, she was always present and ready.
Mana Puti was a devoted person, faithful to her prayers and meditation. Her simple, humble lifestyle was a testament to her values. She was a woman of great generosity, always putting others before herself. I admire how she lived with poverty, content with wearing the same pair of shoes every day, reserving her new ones for special occasions. Her tattered old habits spoke volumes about her selflessness.
What struck me most about Mana Puti was her gentle and thoughtful nature. She was a giver, always mindful of others, and encouraging, especially during challenging times like audits. Her gentleness and forgiveness were truly remarkable. I, like many of you, am inspired by her example.
Though she was ready to go, I know I am not ready to let her go. I will miss her playful spirit, her kindness, and her gentleness. I will miss the way she made her table a place for counseling, listening, and presence – not just for business, but for apostolate. Her legacy of love and kindness will stay with us. — S. Maria Erlinda Lico, RVM
S. Puti was a gentle presence and a joy in our community, a lola to me. Her heart was as pure as her name, radiating kindness and humility. Even in her final days, amid pain and discomfort, she continued to embody God’s compassion.
Having accompanied her three times at TMC, I cannot recall a single moment when she failed to express gratitude, especially during her last confinement. Every visit from the healthcare providers was met with her soft “thank you,” and her humble submission to their care. Even in the smallest things, her kindness shone: inviting those with her to rest when they had stood too long, or gently asking the time only to remind them to eat. Her concern for others, even while she herself was in distress, was both edifying and inspiring.
Her sense of responsibility never wavered. S. Puti even requested to communicate with Ate Elsa to kindly take care of the rides of the priests for Misa de Gallo and ensure that all the requests in her folder were booked (“Alam mo, nag-aalala talaga ako sa rides ng mga pari. May load ka ba? Paki-text mo naman si Elsa na i-book na yung rides ng mga pari sa Misa. At yung lahat ng mga requests sa folder ko, i-book na rin.”).
My dear S. Very Puti, I love you forever. Thank you so much for the witness of your life: your listening heart, your quiet service, and your loving concern. You are home now, embraced by the God whose kindness you reflected so beautifully. — S. Maria Mara Saira Suelto, RVM
S. Puti was true to her name—pure, gracious, and kind. She radiated gentleness, generosity, and a joy that touched everyone she met. Her kindness was her most memorable gift, expressed in the way she welcomed others, offered endearments that made people feel special, and gave from the heart.
She had a smile that lit up familiar faces, eyes that spoke of love, and a presence that was deeply comforting. Her silence was much of a consolation when words weren’t needed. She listened with sincerity, kept confidences faithfully, and carried herself with the quiet strength of the Blessed Mother Mary.
Her laughter and affection reassured those around her. She leaves us with the memory of her purity, her generosity, and her enduring kindness—a legacy of love that will remain in our hearts. — S. Maria Gracia Agda, RVM
Final Farewell
S. Maria Anita, you taught us that the greatest love is often found in the quietest service. While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort knowing you have moved past "golden thrones" to rest in the immaculate light you sought since you were a young girl in Samar.
Goodbye, S. Maria Anita! May the angels lead you into paradise, where your generous soul may find eternal rest in the arms of the Master you served so well.