Singgit Cebu's senior host, Carlo Flores, celebrated his 27th birthday in the company of friends last night, myself included. It has been three years since his entry to the row of senior hosts subsequent to the departure of host par excellence, "Ka Pedro."
His bob-cut 'do and glasses then screamed "geeky" to me when he was first introduced to us. However, Carlo surprised everyone with his hilarious sense of humor and no sense of shame! He gelled pretty quickly with the group and soon later proved to be a steadfast host.
Carlo and I had been hosting side by side in several events. His presence provides a great deal of security for me. This nursing graduate turned college professor certainly has his ways of making a lady feel safe and comfy. Sensitive to my needs as his co-host and friend, I need not fret about anything under the sun when paired off with this chap. From sourcing out much needed information for the program to as simple as a drink, Carlo offers it like a perfect gentleman and ideal escort which one could hardly find nowadays.
My hubby and I witnessed how this hopeless romantic organized a blast of a birthday party for his long time girlfriend, Grems, at his home in Mabolo a few months ago. From the gorgeous flowers, the delectable food preparations, the extreme massage experience, the beautiful bracelet to the special muffin birthday cake, Carlo put his wedding planner skills to work much to his lady's delight! It was certainly the most romantic thing I ever saw a guy do for love!
"I just love them" was his reply to me after asking why he agreed to take the extremely tough responsibilities of a guardian to not just one but three of his sisters' children. After his entire family migrated to the U.S. last year, Carlo had basically taken this vital role responsibly and alone! I could see how much he is being adored by his niece and nephews by the constant kisses and hugs they give him. Carlo is certainly far from your typical 20's guy!
Don't let his goofy dance moves fool you from thinking that he doesn't have a serious bone in his body! On the contrary, Carlo has become more than just another showbiz pal for me. Considered as one of my closest friends in the industry and personal confidante, we regularly exchange views about life, love and religion. His constant calming words of advice has also become of great value to me.
Having spent his younger years in Don Bosco plus his experience as chapter head for Singles for Christ, Carlo keeps me grounded with his constant messages of faith and biblical views that we relish sharing. Everyone in "Singgit Cebu" has benefited from this as well. Before the cameras roll, talents and the production staff gather at the backstage where Carlo's voice would echo, leading us to a solemn prayer each Sunday.
To Carlo, my pal…thanks for the listening ear, laughter, companionship, genuine thoughtfulness and sincerity. Here's wishing you a happy birthday and more years of craziness, bliss, fantastic lovin', great friends and career success!