Christian Anghelo Manhilot takes his own life

TWO DAYS before Cesar Montano's only son, Christian Angelo Manhilot, 23 years old, took his own life on Friday, March 26, we got to interview Cesar at lunch and he had no inkling at all of the tragedy that is about to befall his family. Angelo's remains were cremated last Sunday and a necrological service was held at Arlington Homes. Among those who paid tribute to him were Butch Jimenez (who produced Cesar's "Jose Rizal" and "Muro Ami" for GMA Films), Cesar's brothers Rommel and Jing, Bayani Agbayani and Cesar's manager, Norma Japitana.

They all testified that Angelo is a good son who attends Bible studies regularly. Bayani said he treated Angelo as his own son as he has four daughters. He added that Cesar raised him well as a polite respectful boy. Norma said she was shocked when she learned about Angelo's passing since he loves life so much. Cesar himself said Angelo is not just a son for him but also a good friend, a kabarkada he takes along jogging, boxing and playing around. But he has accepted that his son is not his personal property but was just a gift lent by the Lord who can take him back anytime. Cesar took the ashes of his son to their home in Tivoli Royale, Batasan Hills. Among those who condoled with him were Toni Rose Gayda (who also just lost her son), Rosa Rosal, Lorna Tolentino and sons Ralph and Renz, QC Vice Mayor Herbert Bautista, Richard Merk, Mother Lily Monteverde, Marilou Abaya, Caridad Sanchez, Celia Rodriguez, Nova Villa and Gloria Romero.