As host Luis Manzano declared that the “word of the day” was “laban” (or “fight”), the May 24 episode of “Kapamilya Deal or No Deal” commenced in a serious and heartwarming note as two lucky stars opened up about the battles they faced in life and how they persevered through them.
Diego Gutierrez was the first one to share his personal story, recalling how he still pursued a basketball career despite having no strong connections in the professional league.
"Siguro, Kuya Lu, ako kasi after I graduated from college, pinursue ko talaga 'yong basketball career ko. Wala naman akong masyadong connection sa mundo ng basketball pero ginusto ko talagang patunayan sa sarili ko na kaya kong makatuntong sa professional level. So, nagawa ko 'yon and that's what I would say na 'yon talaga ang nilaban ko sa buhay."
The conversation turned even more poignant when Ynez Veneracion tearfully recounted one of the darkest periods of her life.
"Kasi noong late 20s ako, nagkaroon ako ng major depression. Sabay-sabay 'yong naging problema ko dati, feeling ko wala akong kakampi, wala akong mga kaibigan,” she tearfully confessed. Then she added, “Pero, Kuya Lu, through prayers, napagtagumpayan ko 'yon. Lumaban ako.”
Ynez went on to encourage everyone dealing with mental health issues to just continue fighting and to live life to the fullest.
Moved by her brave confession, Luis expressed his admiration for Ynez’s incredible strength and faith, saying, “Thank you for having faith in God, for having faith in yourself dahil magkasama tayo ngayong gabi.”
Catch more fun and exciting moments on "Kapamilya Deal or No Deal," airing Saturdays and Sundays at 7:30 PM on ALLTV2, Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, and Kapamilya Online Live, or stream anytime on iWant!