Chino Trinidad, veteran sports journalist, dies at age 56

Chino Trinidad, a veteran sports journalist, has passed away. He was 56.

The unfortunate news was confirmed to GMA News Online by his daughter, Floresse Trinidad.

"Yes, we are very sad to share the news of his passing last night, July 13, 2024," Floresse said through SMS.

Trinidad succumbed to a heart attack on Saturday night while he was on the way to a supposed meeting in Newport World Resorts with Efren "Bata" Reyes and other personalities.

He was rushed to San Juan de Dios Hospital, where he died.

In a separate message, Trinidad's children honored him as "a passionate member of the media and sports community."

"Known to many through his storytelling, he never stopped sharing the greatness of Filipinos," the message read.

"He was a loving husband and a supportive father. He will truly be missed," it added.

Trinidad’s family opened his wake to the public on Monday evening. Those who wish to pay their respects to the late journalist may visit Sanctuarium on G. Araneta Avenue in Quezon City from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. from July 16 to 19.

His remains will be cremated on July 20.

Trinidad also served as former commissioner of the defunct Philippine Basketball League.

He also previously worked with GMA Sports as a commentator and sports analyst.

Trinidad was also host of the Time Out segment on 24 Oras, and host of Saksi sa Dobol B on Super Radyo dzBB.

In 2019, he received a special award for Meritorious Conduct at the Dangal ng Maharlika Awards.

He was recognized for "contributing to the promotion, awareness, and appreciation of arnis and Filipino martial arts."

In 2015, he was also named "Natatanging Host Pangpalakasan" at the 1st MITv Gawad Kamalayan given by Mapua Institute of Technology. —KG, GMA Integrated News