Beyond the Game 

Chino Trinidad: A missed chance with a gout brother

By Brian Yalung

When it comes to being passionate about sports, there is no doubt that Manolo “Chino” Trinidad comes to mind. Although we crossed paths several times in the past years, we never really got a chance to mingle.

On my end, I felt unworthy of being among the people who were around him. His name is iconic. Sir Chino was not only a veteran journalist but also someone who took it to another level in sporting events. To some, he was controversial because he never held back when he wanted to stress a point. Again, this was another trait that held me back from trying to establish a relationship.

Hence, I preferred to stay in the background. I remained conservative and wasn’t someone who would risk getting involved in controversies. Regardless, it seems fate had different plans. Somehow, boss Chino and I would work together since we do have a lot of common friends.

First Contact

The first one was courtesy of retired PBA legend Ramon Fernandez and Mam Karla Kintanar-Fernandez. They asked me if I could help and touch base with Sir Chino back in September 2023. We were able to talk and somehow this started our collaboration and connected.

Come March 2024, another opportunity arose. Chino and I were almost set to work together on a new documentary featuring legendary athletes. The lineup was set but the show needed a credible host. Chino Trinidad fit that role but wanted to make sure it would come out fine.

After learning of the limitations of doing the documentary, Chino politely told me where he was coming from. It never pushed through. But despite that, Mr. Trinidad even advised on how to push through with it and not sacrifice the quality since he loved the idea of the show.

Gout Brothers

And though his hosting would not push through, he was open to helping out by helping in the creatives. He mentioned to me how he frequently ate at a mami house in San Juan city which was coincidentally near to me.

However, he cautioned me that because of gout, it would depend if he was good to go. Being someone who also dealt with inflammatory arthritis, I shared what I did to fend it off. After that, he jokingly said that we were “gout brothers."

Regardless, I told him I was willing to meet up with him if our schedules allowed us. Being the busy person he was, it never happened.

Helping a common friend

The last conversation I had with him was the time when we were trying to figure out how to help a common friend in Bill Velasco. He was quietly making calls and seeking help from people who could lend a helping hand to our sick friend. We were both relieved when the veteran broadcaster and journalist pulled through after that forgettable episode.

I never got the chance to know Chino Trinidad more. The only thing I do know is that he deserves respect. Some misunderstand his views. But in all, it was driven by passion as Chino wanted to make sure that things were being run properly and the right way.

Rest in peace, Sir Chino Trinidad. I regret missing the chance to hang out and learn more from you as I continue to figure out how I can improve and be worthy in the world of media.