LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE. "Na-depressed ako," Jose confessed. "Sobrang depressed ako, especially sa mga anak ko. Hindi lang para sa kin kundi para sa mga anak ko. Pero okay na naman sila. Dati ayaw nilang pumasok sa school, pero ngayon okay na naman."

Jose's temporary absence on television doesn't mean giving up live gigs in comedy bars around the metro. For someone who earns a living in the business of making people laugh, the personal satisfaction attained in hearing appreciative laughter coming from the audience never fails to boost Jose's bruised spirits.

"'Pag nakikita kong may tumatawa na sa 'kin, nabubura na 'yong [lungkot]. Nagsu-show pa rin ako gabi-gabi at marami pa ring tao gabi-gabi, at may mga nanggugulo pa rin gabi-gabi, pero hindi ko iniintindi."