I was just so lucky when I had the chance to see and to listen to Boy Abunda when he visited his hometown region, Eastern Visayas. When you get to see him up close, you wouldn’t even be intimidated. His looks were simple which only shows his being grounded. 

For me, I really consider him as a true icon, an inspiration of many. If you could just imagine how his youth days. It’s not that I really know him well, but as what we have mentioned, I imagine him as the typical “promdi.”

Anyway, during a short talk with him, a question was raised. “What can you say to aspiring media practitioners here in Eastern Visayasto reach what you have reached now?”

And so, Boy Abunda shared his experience in becoming what he is at present. Never did he expect that he was able to become who he is now. At first, it was hard for him, but his being Waray made him standout and being recognized by many.

In the beginning, his being different was a source of vulnerability and insecurity, not knowing that it became his source of strength. But it was not easy for him. When he became ha Marketing Specialist, he used his being different for his brand to shine. He was able to turn his wounds into wisdom and his perceived weakness into strength. He did not let his accent define himself. He also emphasized to everybody to do what you do. Lastly, be proud of who you are.

Therefore, you may feel like you’re different from others, always remember that if Boy Abunda was able to overcome it, you can also do it. Also, if you become somebody in the future, never forget to look back to where you started, it will keep you grounded.

 

 

 

By

Paul Neil Glova

ABCom Intern

Leyte Normal University