Bobot Mortiz returns to his first love

For more than five decades, Edgar Mortiz — better known to generations of Filipinos as Bobot Mortiz — has remained one of the entertainment industry’s most enduring and versatile figures.

In an era when careers often rise and fall with changing trends, Mortiz has managed to stay relevant by continually evolving, moving seamlessly from one creative role to another while earning the respect of colleagues and audiences alike. Throughout a career spanning more than 50 years, he has worn many hats: singer, actor, comedian, writer, producer and director. More importantly, he has excelled in each of them, leaving a lasting imprint on Philippine popular culture.

Mortiz first entered the public consciousness in the late 1960s when, at only 13 years old, he won the grand championship of “Tawag ng Tanghalan,” then the country’s premier amateur singing competition. The victory instantly introduced him to Filipino audiences and paved the way for a career in music and entertainment.

As an actor, he became one-half of the hugely popular “Vi and Bot” love team with Vilma Santos, one of the most beloved screen pairings of their generation. Later, he demonstrated his comedic timing as a member of the memorable comedy group Bad Bananas, alongside Christopher de Leon, Johnny Delgado and Jay Ilagan, proving that his talents extended well beyond music and romantic roles.

Yet Mortiz’s influence would become even more significant behind the camera. As a writer, producer and director, he helped create and shape some of Philippine television’s most successful comedy and variety programs. Shows such as “Going Bananas,” “Goin’ Bulilit,” “Banana Sundae” and “Home Sweetie Home” became household favorites, entertaining millions of viewers and helping launch the careers of numerous young performers who would later become stars in their own right.

Despite decades of achievements, Mortiz remains deeply connected to the passion that first brought him into show business: singing. That is why his upcoming concert carries special significance.

On June 13, Mortiz returns to where it all began with a one-night-only performance at the Proscenium Theater. Backed by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and joined by special guests Alexa Ilacad, Klarisse de Guzman, Tirso Cruz III and Christopher de Leon, the concert promises to be both a celebration of a remarkable career and a heartfelt return to his musical roots.

I recently interviewed him to discuss the inspiration behind the concert, the many roles he has embraced throughout his career, the health challenges his family has endured, and the milestones — both triumphant and difficult — that have shaped his life in show business.

You have been in the industry for over five decades, starting in the late ‘60s as the “Tawag ng Tanghalan” grand champion at only 13 years old. Since then, you have evolved from singer and actor to comedian, writer, producer and director. On June 13, you come full circle with a concert at the Proscenium Theater. What inspired this concert?

“The truth is, the idea of holding a concert came to me when I turned 70. I wanted to return to singing because this is where I started — it has always been my first love. My greatest inspiration has always been my wife, Millette, along with my children and grandchildren. This concert is also my way of sharing something with the people who have supported me throughout my career. I want to showcase the talent that God has given me and celebrate this journey with everyone who has been part of it.”

Among the many hats you wear — singer, actor, writer, producer and director — how do you view each role? Which has been the most difficult, the most enjoyable and the most fulfilling?

“I do love all of them. But if I had to choose, I enjoy directing for television the most. I’ve had the privilege of working on shows that people truly embraced and enjoyed. One of the most rewarding things is seeing many of the performers who started on those programs go on to build successful careers of their own. Knowing that I somehow became part of their journey is very fulfilling.”

You and some members of your family have faced health challenges over the years. How are you all doing now, and how did the family cope with those difficult times?

“Yes, my family and I have experienced different illnesses through the years. Even today, there are still health issues that we continue to face. Coping with them has not been easy — emotionally, financially and in many other ways. But God has always been good to us. We continue to trust Him and His plans, knowing that He will never leave us. Our faith has helped carry us through the most difficult moments.”

Your career spans more than 50 years. Looking back, what would you consider the highest and lowest points of your career?

“Some of the highest points of my career were seeing shows like ‘Goin’ Bulilit,’ ‘Banana Sundae’ and ‘Home Sweetie Home’ succeed and connect with audiences. It was incredibly fulfilling to see how much people loved and supported those programs.

“As for the low points, one of the most difficult was the shutdown of ABS-CBN. It was a heartbreaking moment not only for me but for many people in the industry whose lives and livelihoods were affected.”