Turning 60!

CEBU, Philippines - Multi-awarded TV host, Philippine Star and The FREEMAN columnist, Bobit Avila had a joyous celebration at the Grand Convention Center to mark his 60th birthday.

The festivities began with a late afternoon thanksgiving Mass officiated by Father Lucas Inoc, Tuburan parish priest.

On that memorable evening, family and close friends turned up to wish Bobit all the joy and excitement that only birthdays can bring. Ever supportive wife Jessica, personally attended to all the details of the party and made sure everyone had a great time.

After a sumptuous lauriat dinner, guests enjoyed a slide presentation that brought them down memory lane. There was laughter, nostalgia and joy on recalling the wonderful friends and events gone by and perhaps a few tears on seeing dear friends who departed from this  life  still in their  prime.

A few selected guests delivered short heartfelt speeches about their personal experiences with Bobit. Former Congressman Raul del Mar narrated a few incidents that clearly revealed to the core Avila’s unrelenting crusade for justice and truth. Rotary President Joe Soberano talked about his dedicated service to the club, while US Consular Agent John Domingo recalled the many unforgettable experiences on their Harley bikes. Bobby Joseph, Honorary Consul of Latvia, gave a moving account of his fight with cancer and how Bobit has remained a true pillar of strength and inspiration.

Mayen Tan, Executive Lifestyle Editor of The FREEMAN, reminisced the good old days when she would be allowed to go on dates if Bobit was her chaperone. That’s how much her dad trusted him.  Golf buddies Edwin Medalle and Nelson Yuvallos shared some light moments on their experiences at the greens and fairways .

High school best friend Tony Rizarri together with his wife Dora and family, flew in from Houston, Texas to be with the birthday celebrator.  He too shared some of their unforgettable experiences as students at the San Carlos Boys High. Pacquito Unchuan, a member of the religious group Sons of David, spoke of Bobit’s spiritual awakening and growth.

Bobit’s family also had some wonderful memories about their dad. Only son Jesus Valeriano spoke proudly of his guardian  and  disciplinarian, his warrior and hero, while lawyer Jennoh Tequillo related some funny and heartwarming experiences  as a son-in-law and described how Bobit, though stern in his ways, has always regarded and treated  him as his own son.

Towards the end of the evening, Marco Polo Plaza Hotel GM Hans Hauri, led a toast to health, wealth and happiness as Chef Luke Gagnon, and F & B Manager Stephan Wieprich and his team presented Bobit with a delicious cake.

Bobit Avila through the years has nurtured his family and dear friends, regardless of stature, personal belief, faith or creed. He has proven himself to be a genuine friend and a wonderful gift in our lives.

Party keepsakes were CDs that contained   favorite songs which relate to memories and events of the birthday celebrator.