They now call themselves the “Pantalan Boys” because they always gather at the Sugar Dock in Chalan Kanoa.
“Pantalan” is the Chamorro word for dock.
“This place is very popular for diving and swimming,” said Diego Aguilar, now 47. He started coming to the place when he was 12 years old.
He said the dock has a lot of stories to tell about people, good or bad.
Arlene Sablan, one of the wives who come along with their husbands to relax at the dock, said every family has fond memories there.
When there were still not a lot of vehicles on island, she recalled children from Chalan Kanoa, San Antonio and Susupe riding their bikes while others walking to reach the dock.
Even those who reside on Capital Hill, San Vicente or Kagman were also visiting the area as often as they could.
Donald Mendiola said nowadays, people, regardless of ethnic background, like to meet at the dock.
Mendiola said among those who have been visiting the place since their childhood are Jack Pangelinan, John Villagomez, Joseph Villagomez, Nick “Pop” Muna, Jess Taitano, Ben Basa, Max Aguon, Dave Muna, Raymond Tudela, Moses Cabrera, Luis Reyes and Ephraim Palacios.
Arnold Mendiola, who built the “kapeya” of the Immaculate Conception, also frequents the place.
During weekends or holidays, families start arriving as early as 6 a.m. and they will stay there until night-time.
John Aguon, one of the fathers of the “new generation” of “Pantalan Boys,” continues to visit the place for barbecues, get-togethers and to meet new friends.
Among the members of the new generation who frequent the area are Korky Aguon, Thomas Angui, Harvon Angui, Jose Terlaje, James Roberto, Donald Mendiola and Jocelyn Deleon Guerrero.
Tony “Pop” Cruz said most of them are retirees. “We want to continue doing good by taking care of this place.”
He said he likes to relax at the dock and watch the beautiful sunset.
Bill Ayuyu, 48, said he is from the Northern Islands, but since he was six years old, he already considered Sugar Dock as his favorite place to hang out with family and friends.
