Paalam, Pastor Binky. Mahal na mahal ka namin.

The Ateneo Chamber Singers mourns the loss of one of its most beloved — Pastor Binky, whose warmth, joy, and unconditional love touched every single person who had the privilege of knowing him. From the very first moment anyone walked through ACS’s doors, Binky made them feel like they already belonged; talking as if you had been close friends for years. For so many of us, it was the kind of welcome that was life-changing. It gave us the confidence to sing, to stay, and to fall deeply in love with music and community in ways we never expected. To his sectionmates and friends, he was joyful chaos wrapped in a deep bass voice. Musically, he was unmistakable: admired for his rich, resonant bass voice, unexpected vocal range, and memorable moments that remain woven into ACS lore. He was wonderfully, unapologetically extroverted. Loud, endlessly game for banter, famous for his impression of the illustrious Darius Razon and for his fake Singaporean accent. He defied every stereotype of quiet, solemn pastoral reserve, was probably asked, "pastor ka ba talaga??" one too many times. He was noisy and playful but deeply and genuinely caring. But perhaps more than anything, Binky embodied something essential about ACS at its best: warmth, belonging, joy, fellowship, faith, care, and the beautiful messiness of doing life together. And though his absence leaves an ache too deep for words, the laughter, warmth, wisdom, and welcome he gave so freely continue to echo through the lives of the people who had the privilege of singing, traveling, laughing, arguing, praying, and growing alongside him. We will miss you so, so much, Pastor Binky. We thank God for the gift that was you.