US-based Filipina author Ludy Astraquillo Ongkeko (middle photo, right) launched her book, “Forty Years of Writing in America,” on December 1 at Bound Bookshop. The event was graced by the presence of Ludy’s relatives and friends in the Philippines from way back. Among those attended the launch were Dr. Florangel Rosario-Braid (top phot, right), Ludy’s husband retired colonel Hermie Ongkeko (middle, left), Prof. Raul Ingles (middle, second from left), artist Araceli Dans (middle, second from right), retired general Fortunato Abat (above, left) and retired general Guillermo Pecache.