A semester shy from my graduation, I started looking for a part time summer job. The fates will bring me to an office in Malate, beside the St. Paul College. The advertisement called for a writer/publicist and feeling that it was something up my alley I presented myself for an interview.
Glenda Togonon interviewed and hired me on the spot. I would learn years later that Glenda is married to editorial artist Boy Togonon. It was after two days that I would meet the first person who would open doors for me to become part of the world of show business: Bibsy Carballo.
Bibsy is one of the more respected publicists in local showbiz. I think she took a liking for my writing style that she took me under wings as I trod the showbiz paths with much amusement and eagerness. Bibsy was very professional, yet motherly. We would drive around from one location to another in her yellow galant. She drove while giving me thoughtful lectures on showbiz do's and dont's. Offering a few angles here and there. As a neophyte, I was quick to scribble in my new little notepad.
I would go home at night and share my day's stories with my mom who was more than happy to be my sounding board.
Bibsy hoped to hone my skills in writing in Filipino but with a "legitimate" flavor, more substance, less gossip. I was excited and glad as she had seemed to see through me and read my thoughts.
As a psychology major in the state university, I was more inclined to write profiles and features.
Bibsy assigned me to do publicity articles for movies she was promoting. The year was 1981, a golden time for Philippine cinema. I couldn't have entered at a more auspicious time. My journey has begun.
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