Veteran broadcaster Arnold Clavio opened up about his near-death experience, which brought him a renewed sense of faith and purpose.
The ‘Unang Hirit’ anchor revealed that during a life-threatening health scare, he felt an overwhelming embrace from God and guidance from Mama Mary.
Clavio recounted the emotional moment during his hospitalization, describing it as both humbling and transformative.
“Sa Fatima (hospital), ‘yung wall at ceiling, all white. At that moment, as a sinner, naramdaman ko ‘yung yakap talaga. Talagang naisip ko, kahit makasalanan ka, hindi ka Niya iiwan,” he shared.
Believing he was at the brink of death, Clavio said he surrendered himself to God.
“Noong oras na ‘yon, suko na ako. Hindi ko na kaya. Sinuko ko talaga sa Kanya,” he said, reflecting on how the experience changed his perspective on life.
Clavio, who turns 60 soon, now sees the coming years as an opportunity to serve a higher purpose.
“Sabi ko, ‘yung 10 years ko talaga, gamitin Mo ako para ikalat ang pag-ibig Mo,’” he added.
Clavio believes Mama Mary played a significant role in his recovery, noting a spiritual connection to the hospitals where he received care—Assumption, Fatima, and St. Luke’s.
“Sabi nga nila, ginabayan ako ni Mama Mary. Kaya ang spiritual growth ko, mas tumindi,” he said.
With this second chance at life, Clavio said he feels profoundly grateful, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and spreading love.
“Ang bait sa akin ni Lord. Thank You, Lord,” he said.
As Clavio celebrates his renewed outlook, ‘Unang Hirit,’ the country’s longest-running morning show, is also preparing to mark its 25th anniversary this December.
“Mula noon hanggang ngayon, walang pagbabago. Ang mauna kayo sa lahat ang dala-dala naming pangako hanggang sa susunod na 25 taon,” he said.
Since its debut in 1999, ‘Unang Hirit’ has become a trusted companion for Filipinos, providing news, entertainment, and public service.
