To the public, Felipe L. Gozon is the prominent figurehead of the country's largest broadcast network, wielding influence in business, entertainment, and politics.
But to his family, the man, known for his initials FLG, is no different from any other person—a husband to Teresa "Tessie" Gozon, a father, and a grandfather.
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FLG'S GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT
During his 84th birthday celebration at the EDSA Shangri-La Manila on December 9, 2023, a portion of his speech highlighted his achievements as the top honcho of the country's TV giant.
However, what brought him the greatest pride was the remarkable accomplishments of his children: Annette Gozon-Valdes, Philip Gozon, and Maritess Gozon-Viterbo.
He beamed, "Annette, valedictorian in her grade and high school from Colegio de San Agustin, Makati; cum laude graduate in Management Engineering from Ateneo Manila University, cum laude graduate and valedictorian in Law from the U.P. College of Law; and Master of Law graduate from Harvard Law School.
"Philip, valedictorian in his grade school, salutatorian in high school from Colegio de San Agustin, Makati, graduate with honors in Management Engineering from Ateneo de Manila University, graduate (no. 7) in Law from U.P. College of Law and Master of Law graduate from Harvard Law School.
"And Maritess, valedictorian in her grade and high school from Colegio de San Agustin, Makati, magna cum laude graduate in BS Psychology, U.P.; and among the top in her class in Medicine from the U.P."
Evidently, the apple does not fall far from the tree because his grandchildren are also achievers.
He continued, "Annette’s children, Anja, No. 1 in her grade and high school in Poveda and magna cum laude graduate in Management Engineering from Ateneo de Manila University, and Andy, First Honor and Gold Award for academic excellence, high school graduate from Everest Academy. He is now studying at the University of Toronto.
"Raffy, Baste, Bono and Fort, who are Maritess’ children are either at the top of their grade and high school classes or near the top at Colegio de San Agustin, Makati City.
"And Philip’s children Ariana and Henry who are the youngest and in pre-grade school."
His eight grandchildren, he said, "are the sources of Tessie’s and my joy in our old age."
A MAN OF FAITH
Meanwhile, FLG's unico hijo Philip vividly recounted a moment that seemed lifted from a soap opera, yet it was a real-life scenario where his father found himself in a distressing situation.
He recalled, "When my mom got sick earlier this year, I got to see the human side of my dad.
"Now here is someone who has accomplished more than two lifetimes worth of achievements and yet at the hospital bed, beside my mom, he appears so vulnerable and unsure of what to do."
Philip told the story in his speech at the 84th birthday celebration of FLG.
Read: Felipe L. Gozon retires as GMA Network CEO; Gilberto Duavit to take over starting January 2024
He did not disclose his mother's ailment, but the gravity of the situation threw the GMA-7 big boss off guard, saying it made him feel "defeated."
Recalling the moment, Philip shared, "I will never forget his words to me: 'Philip, akalain mo naman mangyari kay Mommy ito.'"
Throughout Teresa's health crisis, FLG's unshakable faith in God became the anchor that sustained the family's resolve.
Philip noted, "You would see him daily by my mom’s side asking our Lord for guidance and that, come what may, His will be done."
The family's collective prayers worked and the Gozon matriarch thankfully overcame her health issues.
She was beside FLG during the party, where she received a declaration of enduring love from the birthday boy.
FLG said, "I particularly thank the Lord for Tessie, a good wife given to me by God, who, after going steady with me for 11 years and being married with me for 54 years and 6 months, I can truly say is the love of my life..."
A MAN OF INTEGRITY
Much has been said about FLG's workaholic personality, with his daughter Annette describing him as "argumentative" and "results-oriented" in a past interview.
Having his father as a boss, according to Philip, is both "intimidating" and "extremely rewarding."
Philip continued, "There is, however, one trait that stands out with my dad and that is his integrity.
"It is indeed appropriate that FLG pays particular attention to GMA News and Public Affairs because like its slogan, wala siyang kinikilingan, walang prinoprotektahan, walang kasinungalingan, at laging totoo lamang."
He wrapped up his speech by lovingly telling the outgoing Kapuso network CEO, "To the world, you may be one person, but to this one person, you are the world.
"Happy birthday, Dad and cheers!"
During the event, it was announced that FLG is effectively stepping down from his role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GMA Network, Inc. at the end of this year.
Taking over CEO duties starting January 1, 2024, is current GMA President and Chief Operating Officer Gilberto R. Duavit Jr.