ABS-CBN pays tribute to Balquiedra

MANILA, Philippines - Radio pioneer and former ABS-CBN executive Lito Balquiedra Jr. was remembered by his family, friends, and former colleagues as a tough but generous mentor, boss and father who had a heart for helping others in a necrological service held at the Dolphy Theater last May 22.

“He always did everything with extraordinary passion. Lito was larger than life. He demanded a lot from himself as much as he demanded a lot from his people,” said Freddie Garcia, former ABS-CBN president and Pilipinas Got Talent judge.

Lito, fondly called by colleagues as “LBJ” and known as the “Radio Master” in the broadcast media, was the pioneer of DZMM and DWRR 101.9 after they were reestablished in 1986. He served as the head of the ABS-CBN Manila Radio Division and initiated DZMM’s trademark public service programs Maligayang Paslit and Oplan MM.

Noli de Castro called Lito his No. 1 critic who would frankly criticize his reports and commentaries, while DZMM’s former station manager and Rep. Angelo Palmones described Lito as jolly, a good listener and the best boss who made sure no one among his subordinates would be left behind.

Manila Radio Division head Peter Musngi called Lito a “mentor and tormentor” who could be sweet but had very exacting work standards.

The past and present DZMM and Tambayan 101.9 executives, anchors, reporters and staff were also present to pay their last respects to Lito.