MANILA, Philippines - Regal Entertainment producer and starmaker Lily Monteverde got an unexpected visit last Monday from no less than Pres. Noynoy Aquino, three days before she underwent operation for a growth in her lungs yesterday.
Daughter Roselle Monteverde said P-Noy paid her mother a visit at their Greenhills abode with Interior and Local Government Sec. Mar Roxas and they talked for hours.
She went on to say that her mother was so touched by the gesture and is grateful for the President’s display of love and concern.
In return, Roselle said, Mother Lily has this wish for P-Noy, who marks his birthday today, Feb. 8: That he extends service to the Filipino people for another term considering his valuable performance and excellent contribution to the improvement of the country’s economy.
In a related development, the Monteverdes issued the following statement yesterday:
“We’re so thankful to all our friends and relatives for their support and prayers. They stood by Mother during the time she was diagnosed. She felt so much love and care which made her really strong and hopeful. She is undergoing her surgery this morning. Let’s pray for a good outcome of her operation and speedy recovery.
“One of the most important persons that really made a difference was the presence of the President with Sec. Mar Roxas. Mother was so enlightened upon knowing of the President’s visit. She couldn’t believe it that a person so powerful will have time to visit her.
“Last Monday, President went to the house with Sec. Mar Roxas to visit Mother before her surgery.
“Mother said ‘He really touched my heart. I wish Pres. Noy can still continue for a second term. He is very dedicated, full of integrity, God-fearing, hardworking and very trustworthy. Our country needs a leader like him. We need a leader like the President to inspire the youth and for the country to move forward. ‘Happy Birthday, my dear President Noy.’â€
Meanwhile, friends of the lady producer gathered Wednesday evening for a Mass at the Imperial Palace Suites, specifically organized for her quick recovery.
Attendees included Mother Lily’s daughter Meme, Annabelle Rama, director Joel Lamangan, TV5 exec Perci Intalan, TAPE, Inc. SVP and COO Malou Choa-Fagar, GMA 7 exec Redgie Acuña-Magno, talent managers Manny Valera, June Rufino, Ethel Ramos, Norma Japitana, Alfie Lorenzo, Girlie Rodis, Ricky Lo, Veana Fores, Vice Mayor Pong Mercado, Ricky Davao, scriptwriter Jake Tordesillas and other friends from the entertainment press.