They say that jolly individuals with the ability to make other people laugh –like comedians – always have a sad story to tell. In this episode, funny man Bayani Agbayani shared the financial challenges that strengthened his desire to act as the family’s breadwinner.
As the youngest and only boy in a brood of five, Bayani would always accompany his mother to the market to sell goods like banana cue. He knew the miniscule earning wouldn’t be enough to get by. He witnessed his mom’s struggles in feeding six mouths and paying for monthly house rental.
These obstacles planted his dream of building their own house someday. “Alam ko kung gaano kahirap mangupahan. Isipin mo pagkatapos ng buwan na ‘yon, may utang ka na agad kinabukasan.”
As a kid, Bayani used to wake up at three in the morning to help his mom sell fish from Malabon to Taguig. The commute was a hassle and the jeepney passengers would complain. Yet, no amount of hardship could diminish his will to help his mother and siblings. “Kapag ang pangarap mo sa buhay ay inilaan mo sa mahal mo sa buhay, lahat ng pangarap mo matutupad,” said Bayani, adding that those who focus on mere selfish intentions will never succeed.
Bayani decided to take up Mass Communication in college. The financial struggle forced him to juggle his studies and extra job as a market porter. Doing all these obligations allowed him only an hour of sleep each night. He said it was too exhausting, that sometimes he makes do with naps during commute.
Bayani eventually entered showbiz as a production crew. He was an all-around guy who used to handle props, wardrobe and other errands. Bayani had to sacrifice his time with family for his demanding work schedule and obligations.
By being a breadwinner, Bayani learned that life in itself is full of hope and possibilities. He always tells his kids not to give up on their dreams. Despite the ups and downs in his showbiz career and personal life, Bayani doesn’t regret anything. “Kasi ang buhay ang naghulma sa atin. Ang showbiz career parte ng buhay ko ‘yan,” he added. Bayani emphasized the value of humility and of saving for the future, especially now that the whole world is suffering from a crisis.
Despite all the problems, Bayani still has the natural gift of making other people smile and forget about their own struggles through his timeless jokes. He believes that being a comedian is something innate, though there are artists who put effort to study the craft.
Asked if there’s someone who he thinks can be at par with his comedic skills, Bayani thought of I Can See Your Voice co-star Luis Manzano. He said he never thought Luis had the knack for punchlines. For Bayani, the award-winning host defies the stigma that comedy is only for ‘unattractive’ guys. “Si Luis parang lalaking Alex [Gonzaga]. Siguro kaya sila click,” said Bayani.