FORMER Glowing Goldie Vegilido “Gido” Babilonia died of cardiac arrest at 4:20 a.m. last Jan. 14 at the Medical City Hospital in Pasig. He was 40.
Babilonia, who was part of UST’s “Triple Tower” in the 1980’s, together with Bobby Jose and UST Growling Tigers assistant coach Rabbi Tomacruz, was rushed to the hospital in the early hours of Jan. 12 after he complained of chest pain and vomiting.
Two days later, Babilonia succumbed to an embolus (pulmonary) blood clot rupture.
According to Pablito Babilonia, the father, the deceased had not had a medical check-up for two years.
“He had been really dedicated to his work as assistant coach in the University of the East and his business (B&B Fish Dealer) that he overlooked his health,” the older Babilonia told the Varsitarian.
Babilonia played for PBA’s Shell (1991), 7-Up/Pepsi (1992-1994), San Miguel (1995-1996), and FedEx (2002). He also played for the defunct MBA as a Pasig Pirate (1998). The 6’6 cager had played for the Letran College high school team during which he was hailed as the Most Valuable Player of the Juniors division of the NCCA.
After his playing years, Babilonia shifted to coaching, playing assistant to Derick Pumaren in San Miguel and to Dindo Pumaren in UE. The Pumarens were his close friends.
Babilonia is survived by his wife Narissa Cheryl and sons Thomas Isiah, Gideon Ira and Seth Isaac. He was buried last Jan. 27 at the Holy Garden Memorial Park in Antipolo.
