QC AVENUE TO BE NAMED AFTER FPJ

What can be done to immortalize someone as iconic as Fernando Poe Jr.? Re-air his classic films? Declare him as National Artist? Name an avenue after him? The first two have already been fulfilled years ago while the third will soon be realized officially, thanks to Quezon City Councilor Winston “Winnie” Castelo, who has filed a city council resolution to rename San Francisco Del Monte Avenue to Fernando Poe Jr. Avenue. The resolution titled “An Ordinance renaming Del Monte Avenue to FPJ Avenue in memory of Fernando Poe, Jr.,” was approved by the city’s Committee on Laws, Rules and Internal Government on Dec. 10.Final approval to put it into effect is due Dec. 14 to coincide with FPJ’s fifth death anniversary.

A self-professed fan of Da King---who died at age 65 on Dec. 14, 2004 due to cerebral thrombosis and multiple organ failure---the councilor deemed putting FPJ literally on the map as another way to honor his legacy as an actor, director, and philanthropist. “It has been five years since his death. We have to perpetuate his memory,” said Castelo in a recent interview.The councilor explained why he believes FPJ should be honored. “Isa siyang huwarang Pilipino na maaaring magsilbing modelo. Kahanga-hanga ang lahat ng ginawa niya nung siya’y nabubuhay. Isa siyang inspirasyon dahil 'yong kanyang ginawa ay di lamang sa mundo ng pelikula kung hindi matuturing na natin siyang isang bayani ng bayan,” said Winnie.
Winnie related that the soon-to-be FPJ Avenue has its historical relevance with the King of Philippine Movies, as both his production house and ancestral house are situated there. “Nandun ang FPJ [Productions], and I’ve read from the papers na ang ancestral house ni Ronnie Poe ay nandun, pati 'yong kanyang memorabilia. I think that is one way of attracting investors by making it a tourist spot,” he said. Asked if FPJ’s widow, Susan Roces, has learned of the news, Winnie said he will be communicating with her soon. Albeit he has not met the cultural icon before his untimely death, the District 2 city councilor shared he has followed his life story. “Unfortunately, hindi [ko siya na-meet]. Pero I’ve read about his stories, watched his movies, and I’m so inspired with the way he served as a model to the youth. So this is just my little way of expressing my gratitude in behalf of my constituents to honor the late FPJ,” he revealed.

Winnie, together with his wife, former actress Precious Hipolito, has for years undertaken several socio-civic, cultural, livelihood, medical, and educational projects to improve the quality of life in Quezon City. One of their latest projects through Helping Hands Foundation was an art exhibit of 100 paintings by top Filipino artists. Proceeds from the event will go to the construction of a day-care center for the poor children of Payatas, Quezon City. Winnie and Precious also support the continued development of Quezon City as “City of the Stars” and the Philippines’ entertainment hub.

By ROWENA JOY A. SANCHEZ

December 12, 2009