Veteran sports journalist Chino Trinidad passes away at 56
Veteran journalist and sports commentator Chino Trinidad died on Saturday, July 13. He was 56.
His daughter, Floresse Trinidad, confirmed his passing to GMA News Online.
According to the outlet's report, he suffered a heart attack on Saturday night while en route to a supposed meeting at Newport World Resorts with Efren "Bata" Reyes and other individuals. He died at San Juan de Dios Hospital.
"Yes, we are very sad to share the news of his passing last night, July 13, 2024," Floresse said through a text message to GMA News Online.
Trinidad's children also expressed their gratitude toward him, acknowledging his significant impact as a passionate, enthusiastic, and dedicated member of both the media and sports communities.
"Known to many through his storytelling, he never stopped sharing the greatness of Filipinos," the message sent to the reporters read.
"He was a loving husband and a supportive father. He will truly be missed," it added.
'A fighter, patriot, truth-seeker'
Trinidad was honored by his media colleagues and loved ones, who paid heartfelt tributes to him.
In a Facebook post, broadcaster and sports journalist Bill Velasco said he was "beyond broken-hearted" by the sudden news of his "brother."
"I am beyond broken-hearted at the loss of Manolo Chino Trinidad, my brother, colleague, friend. A fighter, patriot, truth-seeker. There will [never] be another like you. I love you," he wrote.
Meanwhile, Unang Hirit host Connie Sison reminisced about her time with the sports journalist. She said she would be "sorely missed" Trinidad and would treasure their coverages overseas.
"You will be sorely missed my friend. I will always treasure our Pacquiao coverages abroad. Rest in our heavenly Father's arms. Goodbye for now, Chino..."
Sports commentator Noli Eala was also "saddened and shocked by the sudden passing away of Trinidad, who he called "one of his dear colleagues and longtime broadcast partners."
"Truly saddened and shocked by the sudden passing away of one of my dear colleagues, longtime broadcast partner and friend Chino Trinidad. A true independent mind and advocate of nationalism in sports. You will be missed Chino. RIP partner," he wrote on X.
Kapuso anchor Arnold Clavio shared his last conversation with the late journalist.
"Kinamusta mo pa ako noong June 15, ilang araw matapos ako ay nagkaroon ng hemorrhagic stroke. Rest in peace bro. Enjoy your journey. Paki-kamusta mo na rin kami kay ama, Mike Enriquez. Paalam,' he said.
Jessica Soho also paid tribute as she shared photos of the times they worked together.
"For that indelible interview you gave me for KAMAO, my I-Witness documentary on ring deaths [to] our lively Q and A banters on my news program State of the Nation with Jessica Soho and for all your hard work, love and passion for Philippine sports. I will miss you Chino, maraming salamat," she wrote.
Meanwhile, Gretchen Malalad also recalled the first time she met the journalist when she was part of the national team.
"He tirelessly reported on the lack of funds and support for athletes and celebrated our wins with unmatched enthusiasm. His efforts to promote Philippine sports were truly inspiring," she said, sharing a video of her playing basketball with Trinidad.
For his part, Quinito Henson shared photos of times he did TV commentary with Trinidad and continued to say one could never doubt the late journalist's passion for sports.
"Chino was outspoken, opinionated, and stood by his principles and beliefs. No matter the odds. He made it a personal commitment to pay tribute to our Filipino sports legends and heroes that they may never be forgotten."
Sports journalism icon
Trinidad is a highly respected sports journalist known for his exceptional work as a play-by-play commentator in a wide range of sports events and media outlets. He has lent his voice to PBA coverages by Vintage Television, the Sports Ngayon segment of Balitang Bayan Numero Uno, Manny Pacquiao Presents: Blow By Blow, and the unforgettable upset of Barangay Ginebra against Mobiline Phone Pals in the 1999 PBA All-Filipino Cup quarterfinals.
He also worked with GMA Sports as a correspondent and sports analyst.
In addition to his work in the field, he has pursued his passion for sports by taking on diverse roles in sports-related industries. These positions include serving as the commissioner of the Philippine Basketball League since 2000, where he succeeded Yeng Guiao. Additionally, he played a pivotal role as a founding member of Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas.
In 2019, Trinidad was honored with the prestigious Meritorious Conduct award at the Dangal ng Maharlika Awards ceremony, which was organized by the Mataw-Guro Academy for Filipino Martial Arts. This accolade was conferred upon Trinidad in recognition of their outstanding contribution to promoting, raising awareness, and fostering appreciation for arnis and Filipino martial arts.
In May of this year, he was appointed the commissioner of the Sharks Billiards Association, the first-ever professional league for cue artists in the country.