Zaldy Perez, seasoned journalist, passes away

MANILA, Philippines — Zaldy “Flor” Perez, a jaded sportswriter and considered as the voice of noontime news for PTV4 and UNTV for decades, is gone.

Before the so-called tri-media sports personalities came around, Perez was already there, manning a slot in the Voice of the Philippines on radio, anchoring the popular “Balitang Ala-Una” news program for PTV4 and covering sports events, both here and overseas, for Balita, Daily Globe and Tempo. He also wrote a hard-hitting column for Abante.

Before being hit by illness last August, Perez was part of The Chasedown, a weekly sports talk show on Cignal TV.

Perez passed away last Saturday, leaving behind a proud legacy in broadcast and sports. He was 65.

Perez is survived by wife Annie, son Baste, grandchild Alon, his mother, siblings and other relatives.

His remains lie in state at their residence in Morong, Bataan. Interment is set Thursday at the Morong Cemetery.

Perez was a sportsman all his life, swinging the bat for his beloved Morong team in local school meets. For most of his sportswriting career, he gamely covered the PBA.

Among his peers, Perez carried the moniker “Slippery Flor.” He will be missed.

Rest in peace, Zaldy.