Tiu of a Kind

MANILA, Philippines - Standing shoulder to shoulder, Chris Tiu and his father Jerry undeniably make a handsome team. Jerry, just a few inches shy of his 6’0” son, is a warm, animated fellow of many stories. Chris, on the other hand, is more reserved, but shares the easy smile of his father. “He got his good looks from his mother, not me!” chuckles the 57-year-old Tiu, club president of Tagaytay Highlands International Golf Club Inc.

But despite the good looks, “We’re very different,” reveals Chris, the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters shooting guard. In terms of business, Chris, who is partner-owner in the Philippines of Happy Lemon, Tampopo and Eric Kayser, is more cautious, while Jerry believes in calculated risks. Their differing approaches may see them butting heads from time to time, but all is forgotten when it comes to their shared love for golf, their dogs, basketball (of course), and their favorite getaway — Tagaytay Highlands. 

They may not go there as often together now, but the memories of the long, carefree rides up to the cold, highland retreat keep them warm to this day. “Aside from the hours spent at the golf course (with my dad), I learned a lot during those long drives in the car, things that you wouldn’t learn in classrooms,” shares the baby-faced athlete. 

Perhaps it was these lessons on compassion, humility, hard work and discipline that helped propel Chris to basketball greatness as the team captain of the Ateneo Blue Eagles at the 2008 UAAP championships. While the win against La Salle’s Green Archers was a sweet victory — a favorite of the famed young athlete —  the one that Jerry is most proud of is of an earlier, more poignant win. “My happiest moment was when I saw Chris — then a Grade 4 student in Xavier School — make a shot for the first time in a basketball game.” The thought of the scrawny kid with his arms raised in triumph is one that still lights up his eyes to this day.

 â€œWhen I became a father, I promised myself that I would give all my children all the love and attention. I promised to try my best to always be there for them,” shares Jerry. This was put to a test on one occasion, when Chris needed antibiotics for his swelling chin. Having already checked in at the airport, Chris couldn’t leave. Immediately and without hesitation, Jerry drove all the way to Baclaran to buy medicine and rushed back to the airport just in time to see his son off. All in the name of love.

Today, Chris makes sure to return the favor. Despite his hectic schedule for taping and practice, he never forgets to make time for his parents, siblings and wife Clarisse. And this is no problem, as the Volvo ambassador navigates the metro on his sleek XC60. “It’s very comfortable, reliable and more importantly, it’s safe. I can use it for out-of-town trips and it has a big trunk space which can fit all my stuff for taping and basketball. It’s classy and elegant, but not over the top. It fits my needs and fits my personality,” he shares, hinting as well that should the time come, his XC60 can serve the needs of his own little family.

“I want to have kids. I’m excited and I pray to God that he will give me a child when we’re ready.” And with a little guidance from Jerry, Chris can rest assured that fatherhood will be one exciting and fulfilling ride.

Creative direction and styling by Luis Espiritu Jr. • Associate styling by Bang Martinez and Tara Subaldo • Grooming by Pia Reyes for MAC Cosmetics • Hairstyling by Dave Lopez

Photos by MAU AGUASIN