In his first term as a politician, Baham feels the pressure of having to live up to the reputation of his father, Monching Mitra, who was respected as a former speaker of the house, Secretary of Agriculture and other prominent roles. Our 32-year-old bachelor is happy with the events in his life these days as he pauses to reflect on his interests in cockfighting and dogs.
Which living person do you admire most?
Gloria Tan Climaco, a competent person with an ability to lead. She was my boss when I was with SGV.
How do you resolve your conflicts with women ?
A woman is often wrong until she cries; then, she is right, instantly.
What hobbies do you have?
I have been cockfighting since I was 15 years old. I love the word of honor, the competition and camaraderie among sabungeros.
What book are you reading now?
Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People.
Who greets you when you come home?
Bugsy, my yellow labrador. In Palawan, Athena, the mom of Bugsy.
If you were to die, who or what would you like to come back as?
A dog. I love dogs. They just give and give without asking for anything in return.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
My attention to too much details.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
When people make conclusive judgment about petty issues without clarifying matters.
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
My thinning hair.
How do you start your day?
Breakfast meeting with my chief of staff at my home in Ayala Heights.
What is your motto?
If it’s worth doing, it is worth doing well.
If you had the chance to change something in your life, what would that be?
I would like peace and harmony among my six brothers so we can enjoy family life to the fullest.
What is your greatest extravagance?
My black BMW and my Philippine Best of Breed Champion Labradors.
Which historical figure would you like to have been?
My ninong and my idol, Ninoy Aquino.
Name a moment that brings back happy memories.
Around midnight of election day, 2001 when I could see the trend that I was winning.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Being at peace with myself and at peace with God.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Now. I feel so happy and fulfilled.
What is your favorite journey?
Going home in a cold air-conditioned car after a day of achieving a lot.
What would your tatay often say to you?
If ever you get elected, you do not owe me anything. You owe the next generation.