Biography
Chino Trinidad was born Manolo Lacsamana Trinidad on July 23, 1967, in the Philippines. In Filipino naming tradition, “Lacsamana” was his maternal family name, while “Trinidad” was his paternal surname. He grew up in a family deeply connected to journalism and sports, which greatly influenced his future path.
He was the son of Recah Trinidad, a respected sports columnist, and Fe Lacsamana. Growing up, Chino was surrounded by discussions about sports, athletes, and national competitions. This early exposure helped shape his understanding of sports not just as entertainment, but as a reflection of Filipino culture and pride.
Chino studied at the University of the Philippines Diliman, one of the country’s most prestigious universities. His education helped sharpen his thinking, communication skills, and critical approach to sports issues. These qualities later became clear in his work as a commentator and sports executive.
Over time, Chino Trinidad built a reputation as someone who was knowledgeable, outspoken, and deeply committed to improving Philippine sports. He was not only a commentator behind the microphone but also a leader who took active roles in sports organizations.
Career
Chino Trinidad’s career in sports media and management was long, diverse, and influential. He worked across radio, television, and sports administration, leaving a lasting mark in each area.
Sportscasting and Journalism
Chino began his professional journey in 1991 at DZRH, where he worked on the program Balitang Bayan Numero Uno under the Sports Ngayon segment. From the start, he showed a strong ability to explain sports clearly and passionately, making games more exciting and understandable for listeners.
From 1993 to 1995, he worked as a sideline reporter for Vintage Television’s Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) coverage. This role placed him close to the action, allowing him to report directly from the court and connect fans to the players and coaches.
He later became a play-by-play commentator, a role that defined much of his public image. Chino called not only basketball games but also boxing matches, including the popular program Blow-by-Blow. His voice became familiar to many Filipino sports fans.
One of his most memorable moments as a commentator was the 1999 PBA All-Filipino Cup quarterfinals, where Barangay Ginebra pulled off a dramatic do-or-die upset against Mobiline Phone Pals. His energetic and emotional call of that game is still remembered by fans.
Chino also worked as a sports reporter for GMA News, where he combined traditional journalism with his deep sports knowledge. In 2007, he served as a play-by-play commentator for RPN’s coverage of the FIBA Asia Championship, further proving his versatility and international-level experience.
Sports Management and Leadership
Beyond broadcasting, Chino Trinidad was heavily involved in sports management. In 2000, he became the 8th Commissioner of the Philippine Basketball League (PBL), replacing Yeng Guiao. He served in this role for ten years, until 2010.
As PBL commissioner, Chino focused on player development, league credibility, and maintaining competitive balance. His leadership helped the league remain relevant during a period of change in Philippine basketball.
He was also a founding member of the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP), which later became the recognized national basketball federation. Chino was one of the voices that pushed for SBP’s recognition, especially during the period when Philippine basketball was struggling with leadership and governance issues under its previous federation.
Later in his career, he was considered for other leadership roles, including UAAP basketball commissioner and Chairman of the Games and Amusement Board (GAB). He also served as a consultant for the Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup.
In May 2024, just months before his death, Chino Trinidad was appointed as the first Commissioner of the Sharks Billiards Association, the Philippines’ first professional pool league. He was also an adviser to the Pilipinas Super League, showing that he remained active and influential until the end of his life.
Other Media Work
After leaving GMA, Chino focused on developing his own cable television channel, Pilipinas HD. The channel aimed to highlight Filipino sports, athletes, and stories that were often overlooked by mainstream media.
In 2014, he led Pagpupugay, a tribute project honoring Filipino sports heroes. This effort received recognition from the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) during its 2015 Annual Awards, showing the respect he earned within the sports community.
Personal Life
Chino Trinidad’s personal life was closely tied to sports and family. Being the son of a well-known sports columnist gave him early access to the world he would later help shape.
He was also related to Mark Caguioa, a former PBA superstar and one of the most popular basketball players in Philippine history. This family connection further strengthened his link to Philippine basketball, though Chino maintained his independence and professionalism in his work.
Despite his public career, Chino was known to keep many aspects of his private life away from the spotlight. Friends and colleagues described him as passionate, principled, and deeply committed to Filipino sports. He was admired for speaking his mind, even when his opinions were unpopular.
Cause of Death
On the night of July 13, 2024, Chino Trinidad suffered a heart attack. He was rushed to San Juan de Dios Hospital in Pasay, where he passed away at the age of 56, just ten days before his 57th birthday.
At the time of his death, Chino was on his way to Newport World Resorts to meet with several people, including legendary pool player Efren Reyes. His sudden passing shocked the sports world, as he was still active and recently appointed to new leadership roles.
His funeral service was held on July 15, 2024, and he was cremated five days later. Tributes poured in from athletes, journalists, executives, and fans who recognized his lasting contributions to Philippine sports.
Conclusion
Chino Trinidad’s life was one of dedication, passion, and service to Filipino sports. As a sportscaster, he gave fans unforgettable moments through his voice and storytelling. As a sports executive, he worked behind the scenes to improve leagues, protect athletes, and strengthen institutions. As a critic, he was never afraid to speak the truth as he saw it.
His sudden death in 2024 left a void in Philippine sports media, but his legacy lives on through the leagues he helped shape, the athletes he supported, and the fans he inspired. Chino Trinidad will always be remembered as a true advocate for Philippine sports.
FAQs
Who was Chino Trinidad?
Chino Trinidad was a Filipino sports journalist, commentator, and executive known for his work in basketball and boxing.
What was Chino Trinidad famous for?
He was known as a PBA play-by-play commentator and as the former commissioner of the Philippine Basketball League.
Was Chino Trinidad related to any athletes?
Yes, he was related to former PBA superstar Mark Caguioa.
Did Chino Trinidad hold leadership roles in sports?
Yes, he served as PBL commissioner, SBP founding member, and commissioner of the Sharks Billiards Association.
What caused Chino Trinidad’s death?
He died from a heart attack on July 13, 2024, in Pasay, Philippines.
Peter Charles is a journalist and writer who covers battery-material recycling, urban mining, and the growing use of microreactors in industry. With 10 years of experience in industrial reporting, he explains new technologies and industry changes in clear, simple terms. He holds both a BSc and an MSc in Electrical Engineering, which gives him the technical knowledge to report accurately and insightfully on these topics.
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