To say that I have been dreading to write this blog is an understatement. The truth of the matter is I am devastated over the loss of Mr. Jojo Sonillo.
Many of you may know Mr. Jojo Sonillo from his achievements, like being the President and CEO of Precious Moments Philippines, a FAME Katha Award-winning designer, and the pioneer for the Frontliner dolls for a cause. But to those close to him, we knew him as the kind, selfless, God-fearing, and ever-generous friend whom we so lovingly called Sir Jojo.
When our friendship began
I first met Sir Jojo back in 2016, when I visited the Precious Moments head office in Makati. Little did I know that that chance encounter would turn into a lifelong friendship.
Sir Jojo first knew me as a customer, who was eager to purchase a few Precious Moments figurines as a present for her mother. But after a bit more conversation, he realized I had a passion for writing and would later enlist me as a freelance writer for the brand’s newsletter.
This agreement led to a series of conversations between us two, which would later develop into a great friendship.
Because of this, Sir Jojo was able to meet my parents, and even developed a close bond with my mother. Suffice it to say, he was more than just an employer to us, he was a family friend.
At that time, Sir Jojo didn’t know this about me, but I doubted my abilities after experiencing a few hiccups in my first, full-time job. He, however, didn’t see that in my work, even saying that hiring me was a “blessing”. What he didn’t know at that time was that that little compliment had a great impact on me.
He was always so supportive of my writing and I could always tell he was proud of my accomplishments during my time as a writer for INQUIRER.net. So, this time around, I am using my writing to shine a light on the kind of person he was and what impact he had during his time here on earth.
He never thought of himself
Those close to Sir Jojo know the man rarely thought of himself. He was always thinking of ways to help other people. Whether it was organizing a feeding program for the less fortunate or preparing meals for frontliners, Sir Jojo never thought of the inconvenience, hassle, or stress this activity could bring him. He only thought of the positive outcome it could have to the community.
Oftentimes, whatever blessings he had, he would share with those in need or those who were suffering. In fact, during his past birthdays, he would tell me that he used the money I sent him to help fund his projects for the community — even when I told him he could use them for himself. That’s how selfless he was.
In his lifetime, he has helped countless number of people, many of which have already posted about it on his Facebook account.
His memory will live on with his loved ones
Like many of the people who have posted about him online, Sir Jojo’s memories will live on with us.
Sir Jo, in your last message to me, you said: “While today’s mercies do not include strength for tomorrow, it includes though, FAITH for tomorrow’s unseen mercies. Let us therefore turn our eyes away from our disappointments, our sufferings, and our circumstances and instead focus on God’s bigger PURPOSE and PLANS so we can discover that HIS MERCIES would never come to an end for they are new every morning! Truly, GREAT is GOD’S FAITHFULNESS!”
I believe God gave you to all of us to show us what a real blessing looks like. And even though many of us are suffering from losing you, we know God’s plan for you now is to be eternally happy in Heaven.
Thank you for the friendship, Sir Jo. We will always remember you, may you now rest in peace.
C. Militar Writes 