Veteran broadcaster and former Vice President 'Kabayan' Noli De Castro celebrated his 77th birthday surrounded by his loved ones. His daughter, Philippine Information Agency Director-General Katherine “Kat” De Castro, shared a tribute in his honor.
Kat gave followers a glimpse of the intimate family celebration through photos on social media, which many netizens delighted in, as Kabayan looked healthy and well.
Alongside the photos, Kat reflected on the man she has known beyond his public persona.
"Happy Birthday, Daddy ko! I have been blessed to know the man behind Kabayan: the father who has always worked tirelessly so our family would have a better life and who taught me that integrity is something you strive for everyday," she wrote.
"Everything I am today carries a piece of you. My passion for serving people and my determination to carry on when things get difficult. I learned all of those from you."
Kat also looked back on her father's recent health journey, saying it reminded her to treasure every moment they spend together.
"Dad, your healing reminded me that every day with you is a gift I should never take for granted. It made me cherish our conversations and even the quiet moments we share.
"May God continue to bless you with good health, happiness and many more beautiful years with the people who love you unconditionally (just like how Mom would use to say). I love you always," she continued.
Many friends and colleagues from the media industry also extended birthday greetings to Kabayan.
"Happy Birthday Ninong Noli! ❤️,” wrote broadcast journalist Connie Sison.
"Kabayan sir!! 🇵🇭 happy happy Birthday Tito!!” added People's Television Network General Manager Lino Cayetano.
In December last year, Kat briefly asked the public to pray for her father through a now-deleted social media post. She later reassured everyone that he was "okay" and shared in the comments that he had undergone surgery.
More recently, during Father's Day in June, Kat posted another tribute featuring Kabayan smiling brightly, with many netizens expressing happiness to see him looking healthy.
"To the entire country, you are Kabayan. To me, you are my greatest teacher, protector and inspiration. Thank you for your love, guidance and sacrifices. The values you taught me like integrity, hard work and service, continue to guide me everyday. I am proud to be your daughter. I love you so much Daddy," she wrote at the time.