Herlene Budol's manager Wilbert Tolentino resigns from his post

Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol’s manager, Wilbert Tolentino has resigned from his position after one and a half years, effective July 31.

According to his Facebook post, Wilbert made the difficult decision after thinking about it for a long time, deciding it was time so he could focus on his child and his health.

“Mahirap man gawin, halos matagal ko din pinag-isipan. Subalit kailangan ko ng pagtuunan ng pansin ang aking kalusugan, at bigyan oras ang aking anak dahil una sa lahat tumatanda na si KaFreshness, at higit akong kailangan nya lalo't lumalaki na siya,” Wilbert said.

[It is a difficult choice and I thought about it for a long time, but I need to pay attention to my health and give time to my child. He is growing up fast and he needs me more now.]

Wilbert added that being a talent manager entails a busy schedule.

“Kulang ang bente kwatrong oras sa isang araw para sa sarili kong buhay. Walang kapantay ang bawat hamon na aking naranasan, matupad lamang ang aking mga sinumpaang tungkulin para kay Herlene,” he said.

[Twenty four hours is not enough for my own life. Nothing could beat the challenges I faced to be able to make good on my promise to Herlene.] 

The talent manager was proud to say that for a year and a half, he was something of a parent to Herlene, whom he treated as his own child.

Wilbert talked about Herlene’s achievements throughout their short time together, such as placing 1st Runner-Up in Binibining Pilipinas, her endorsements, acting projects, and being named Miss Philippines Tourism 2023.

“Masaya ako para kay Herlene dahil natulungan at natupad ko mga pangarap nya tulad ng bagong bahay, kotse at iba pang investment na [ipundar] po [niya],” he said.

“Masaya ako para sa kanya dahil maka tungtong [siya] sa [international stage] sooner,” Wilbert added.

He thanked the companies they worked with and said Herlene will still have several commercials, billboards, and product endorsements coming out this year.

Wilbert has nothing but kind words for Herlene and looks forward to seeing her next career milestones.

“Malayo pa ang mararating ni [Herlene.] Sana lang isapuso nya ang core value na itinuro ko sa kanya na COMMITMENT, PROFFESIONALISM and GRATITUDE. I am very optimistic na lalago pa ang karera nya and more endorsement, tv shows and movies to come!” he said.

Wilbert ended his post, “Hanggang sa muli.”

— Nika Roque/LA, GMA Integrated News