SUCCESS DESPITE THE ODDS

Kabayan’s metamorphosis from a poor barrioboy to being the most prominent Legislator today is an amazing story of success. But as a sage once uttered, a triumphant journey is not measured by the number of miles traveled but by the values acquired and relationships built along the way. In this sense, Kabayan is a victor.

Despite the many accomplishments Kabayan garnered throughout the years, he maintained his feet on the ground. His success did not budge the goodness of his heart, the kindness of his soul, and the simplicity of his being.

Those who have not met the man would think that he is overwhelmed by all the glitter and fame, making him forget his humble beginnings. In truth and in fact, Kabayan remains the simple man from the barrio with nothing but love and care for his brethren.

His sister would relay that Kabayan would always see how they are. "He never fails to check on all of us. Even when he was still a fresh reporter making ends meet with his meager salary then, he would ensure that a portion of his pay would go to us in Mindoro."

For his wife Arlene, the current Vice-President for News and Current Affairs of ABS-CBN, and his three children, Manueli, Katkat, and Shamir, Kabayan is an ideal family man. In fact, he would rather spend his free time at home to personally feed his priced wildlife collection and groom his garden plants. "He would rather devote his time doing simple things with us rather than attend social engagements and parties, his wife Arlene enthuses.

Kabayan’s weekly television program, Magandang Gabi…Bayan!, is now a part of every Filipino family’s Saturday activity. Through the years, MGB has evolved consistent with the progress in the life of its anchorman. His areas of concern, including tourism, the environment and public health, are now regular segments in every episode of MGB.

His staff at his television program has nothing but praise and admiration for Kabayan. Since it started, Kabayan has been hands on. He oversees all aspects of production to ensure that his viewers will get quality and informative show.

In the Philippine Senate, he is also endeared to his legislative staff. His professionalism and leadership influence his senate staff to be the best public servants that they can be. For this reason, Sen. De Castro’s constituents have nothing but good words for his accommodating and hospitable staff.

A lover of nature he is, Kabayan is one of the vanguards of environmental protection, engaging assiduously in campaigns to save nature from degradation.

“I always have a huge heart for mother nature. As a kid in nature-rich Oriental Mindoro, I was always amazed at the pristine beauty of the environment. I believe that the future generation has the right to enjoy nature and benefit from it. So for our children’s sake, we should preserve nature and avoid abusive and unsustainable activities." Kabayan remarked.

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