Radio comedian laid to rest

MORE than 5,000 people bade farewell to Cebuano radioman and comedian Marlon Bellita during his burial in Barangay Pardo, Cebu City yesterday afternoon.

The hot weather did not stop relatives, friends, office mates, fellow media workers and fans of Bellita from gathering for the last time to say goodbye to the popular radio anchor.

At 11 a.m. yesterday, Bellita’s remains were brought to the Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Parish in Pardo from his residence in Sitio Kawayan, Barangay San Isidro, Talisay City.

Accompanying the hearse was a convoy of taxis and vehicles carrying Bellita’s family, friends and loyal followers of his radio program.

Along the way, people watched Bel- lita’s hearse pass by, with some of them carrying banners conveying their emotions for Bellita’s passing.

At the church at 12 noon, a mass was held by Fr. Mike Hisoler. The church was filled with people.

Hisoler, in his homily, reminded Bellita’s family and friends that death isn’t the end of life but only the beginning.

Hisoler said he knew Bellita as a parishioner. He said despite the problems Bellita encountered in his life, he didn’t stop bringing joy to his listeners.

Cemetery After the mass, Bellita’s remains were brought to the Pardo Catholic Cemetery for burial.

Vince Monterde, Sun.Star Superbalita reporter and president of the beat organization Media in Cebu South (Mics), said reporters covering Talisay City and the first district of Cebu mourn Bellita’s passing.

When the Talisay City reporters association was named Mics in 2008, Bellita was the first president.

Monterde said he remembers Bellita as the group’s comedian and adviser. He said Mar- lon held the group together, especially during the toughest of times.

“He treated us like family. He would always share his problems and help us out with our own. His death has left an emptiness in each one of us,” Monterde said.

Lawyer and radio DyHP station manager Ruphil Bañoc told reporters yesterday Bellita’s death was a big loss to the media industry in Cebu.

Bañoc said he and Bellita were colleagues when the latter was still a reporter. There were times when Bellita sought legal advice from him, Bañoc said.

Taxi driver Jose Daguilan was among those who attended the funeral.

Daguilan, who hails from Toledo City, said Bellita’s comedy program made him survive the day’s rush hours.

He said he never met Bellita in person but he cried during his funeral yesterday because he felt he had lost a friend.

“KKK (Kita Kita Kits) lang ta sa langit, Sir Marlon,” Daguilan said, using one of Bellita’s expressions.

Bellita’s widow, Hazel, thanked everyone who mourned for her husband.