Simple Burial for a Great Man Friday, Feb 27 2009

It is not how long, rather how well you live-Prof. Randy Pausch

Islamic burial rites dictates that the dead be buried before sundown, but due to the manner of Kru Robert’s death, an autopsy must be done.

Sunday, February 22, 2009, Kru Robert Valdez, President and Founder of Muay Thai Association of the Philippines (MAP) was laid to to his final resting place as he joins is brothers and elders in the throne hall of Allah.

Sir Robert came from very humble beginnings, in his short life he has touched and influenced countless lives.  He is recognized as the leader in amateur muay thai, not only in the Philippines but also in Asia.

Farewell, my beloved mentor.

The imam and Kru Robert’s Muslim brothers are praying over his body.  Sir Robert is bathed and wrapped in clean, white cloth  as part of Islamic burial rites…

…while Sir Robert’s friends, students and RP team members look on outside the prayer area.

A clear, blue sky greets Sir Robert as he ascend to heaven.     The minaret and dome of the Blue Mosque at Maharlika Rd. , Taguig

Sir Robert’s body is being carried from the mosque to the burial ground.

Close friends and relatives alternately carry Sir Robert’s body on the way to the Islamic cemetery which is almost a kilometer away.

Kru Billy Alumno, carrying the body of the man who stood as his mentor and is almost his second father.

Sir Robert’s final resting place

Laying Sir Rober’s body to the burial ground.

The final prayer led by the Imam.    Sir Robert rested in a simple grave, without fanfare, but with much solemnity.

Grief and uncertainty all written on their faces, the Philippine team and Sir Robert’s only son watch as the imam performs the last rites on Sir Robert.