In a rare and touching public appearance, actress-environmentalist Chin-Chin Gutierrez graced the Cheers to Life concert last January 15 at Merk’s Bistro and Bar in Makati City — a heartfelt event organized by Richard Merk to support Chin-Chin after a double tragedy struck her life.
Just days before Christmas, Chin-Chin lost her home to a devastating fire on December 20. Then, barely three weeks later, on January 12, her beloved mother, Cecilia Arnaldo Gutierrez, passed away from cardiac arrest.
Despite the heartbreak, Chin-Chin radiated peace and strength as she recounted her mother's "crossing over" at the ICU of Medical City in Pasig. "It was a peaceful send-off," Chin-Chin shared, her voice calm yet brimming with emotion. "I was by her side, whispering to her about all the beautiful things that awaited her in heaven."
Her unshakable faith in God has been her guiding light through these painful moments. "God gave her time... [She] was surrounded by love, prayers, and songs," Chin-Chin said, recounting how family and friends reached out to her mother in her final hours.
Chin-Chin revealed her last words to her mom: "I love you, Mama. Go to the light." As if guided by a divine force, she watched as her mother smiled sweetly and looked upward — a sign that her spirit was ready to soar.
The Cheers to Life concert brought together a constellation of stars — Mon David, Giselle Sanchez, Noel Cabangon, Gary Lising, Danny Javier, Buboy Garovillo, and many others — all united in support of Chin-Chin.
“My mom is participating from above," Chin-Chin said with a gentle smile. "We have a very strong intercessor now."
The night was not just a benefit concert — it was a celebration of hope, resilience, and the indomitable Filipino spirit of compassion. "Patotoo ito na busilak ang puso ng Pilipino," she said. "I'm very, very grateful."
Though her mother’s physical presence is gone, Chin-Chin feels her love more than ever. "Sometimes, when my heart beats hard, I know it's her hugging me," she shared.
Mrs. Cecilia Arnaldo Gutierrez — a former Franciscan nun who served in Italy — was laid to rest last January 17 at Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina City. She named her daughter Carminia, after the flower of the Sacred Heart — but fittingly, her nickname Chin-Chin means “Cheers to Life” in Italian.
And that night, Chin-Chin Gutierrez showed everyone exactly what that means.
source : Philippine Entertainment Portal
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