Bitoy bats for good nutrition and good education

MANILA, Philippines - It’s something achievers know: The stronger the foundations of childhood, the higher the platform for one’s success in life.

No one could heartily agree more with this than creative comedic maven Michael V, or “Bitoy” as he is more popularly known. To secure his present popularity as one of GMA 7’s top comedy actors and show hosts, it took a combination of his wit, persistence and knack for opportunity — traits that were ingrained in him as a child.

“Comedy has always been in my bloodstream,” he said. “I joined a lot of contests on TV, and I started as a rapper. But when I saw the opportunity, I gracefully shifted into comedy. I felt more comfortable and as I was given room to grow, it was evident that I was on the right track because that’s when I felt that I bloomed.”

It wasn’t always that easy, however. Michael V was born into poor circumstances that thankfully failed to dampen his youthful optimism. He spent many days up in the rooftop of the tenement housing where he was raised, dreaming of making it big someday.

“Back then, at a very young age, I already felt this responsibility to make a difference any which way I could,” he revealed. “A lot of people I know took the easy path and when they came to a dead end just seemed to give up. Talent or not, I was determined to make a better life for myself and that’s what kept me going.”

Since his transition to comedy, he has starred in several films and TV sitcoms, hosted various shows, and won the Asian Television Awards for Best Comedy Performance by an Actor from 2004 to 2006.

Michael V believes there are no shortcuts to success. He also credits the good education he received as a valuable factor that helped him get to this level. “High school taught me the academics, and college is where I learned all the theories and principles,” he said. “It wasn’t until I got to work in the TV network that I truly put to use all that I learned. Honestly, until now, I’m still learning!”

In his youth, he also knew the importance of proper nutrition, believing that a healthy body and mind is the only way for a child to do better in school. That is why he has recently become a solid supporter of the Laki Sa Gatas Nutrition and Education Advocacy program initiated by Nestlé Philippines four years ago. The program tours public schools around the country to combat children’s malnutrition and promote the link between good nutrition and good education.