Erik Santos in tears as he remembers late dad on 20th showbiz anniversary

Erik Santos. Image: screengrab from YouTube/ABS-CBN Entertainment

Erik Santos was not able to hold back his tears as he celebrated his 20th year in show business by recounting his memories in the industry, including those with his late dad Renato Santos.

Erik marked the milestone with a song performance alongside fellow OPM singers Zsa Zsa Padilla, Regine Velasquez, Ogie Alcasid, Gary Valenciano and Angeline Quinto on the weekend variety show “ASAP Natin ‘To” on Sunday, Sept. 10.

“I just want to say na my singing career was born on this very exact stage dito po sa ASAP. Paulit-ulit ko pong sasabihin na ang ‘ASAP’ po ang nagluwal sa aking singing career,” Erik said after his performance. “Up until now, after 20 years, naririto pa rin po ako. Magkakasama pa rin po tayo.”

Erik burst into tears as he expressed his gratitude to Padilla, whom he addresses as his “nanay” (mother) and whom he credited for never leaving his side despite any hurdles. Erik also thanked couple Alcasid and Velasquez and recalled how they helped him by being his guest performers in one of his concerts.

READ: Erik Santos expresses ‘heartfelt gratitude’ for support after father’s death

“For Kuya Gary and Kuya Martin, dalawa po ‘yan sa pinakainiidolo ko. Growing up, ‘yung mga awitin nila ang aking inaawit kasama po ng aking Tatay,” said Erik who took a pause and sobbed. “My heart is so full of gratefulness, gratitude sa lahat po ng mga tumulong sa akin.”

“Ito pong mangyayaring [anniversary concert] sa October will be in honor of my beloved parents. Para sa kanila po talaga itong show na ito,” he added.

Erik’s dad Renato passed away last Aug. 10, just nine months after the singer’s mother, Angelita Santos, died.  /ra

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