Kuya, Dancer, Dreamer, Tatay, Best Man: Celebrating Kuya Nanan

Some men are more than brothers — they are blessings.

There are people whose lives shine so brightly that you cannot help but be moved by their love, their faith, and their strength. They do not ask for recognition, yet their quiet sacrifices become the very foundation on which others stand. They are the steady presence that holds a family together, the unseen anchor, the living proof of God’s grace at work.

For my husband’s side of the family, that person is Kuya Nanan.

I rarely write about my husband’s side of the family, since they are very low-key and private. But today, I make an exception — because if there is anyone whose life deserves to be honoured out loud, it's our very own Kuya Nanan.

Kuya is a façade engineer based in Singapore, but beyond his profession, he is the pillar of the family. From the time he was still in college, when their beloved Papa passed away, Kuya became both kuya and tatay — pouring out everything he had to make sure Mamila and the whole family were well-provided and cared for. Even now, he continues to go above and beyond, often giving until he has barely anything left for himself... anything to make sure everyone else is okay.

He was originally based in Dubai, and it was Kuya who first brought my dear husband here — a step that shaped not just his career but also the story of our family. Later, when he moved to Singapore, we made it a point to visit him every chance we could. Not only to reintroduce me as Nel's God's Gift (what we call The One within the Couples For Christ community) and, eventually, our children to their Tatay/Tito Nanan, but also simply because we miss him. We treasure every moment of quality time (our love language) spent with Kuya. He’s a foodie like us, and in foodie-paradise Singapore, Kuya always knows the best eats — the ones that delight without breaking the bank!

Kuya is also a gifted photographer. Our wedding prenup across Singapore remains one of the most precious gifts he has ever given us — a gift of his time, talent and love.

And let’s not forget — Kuya is a very talented dancer! In Singles For Christ (SFC), he was often onstage, sharing his gift for the greater glory of our Lord through dance. At our own wedding, he was the undisputed king of the dancefloor — a joy to watch and even more a joy to be around. It’s no surprise our kids both love to dance too; mana sa Lola, their dad, their Tatay Nanan… and maybe a little bit from me. 💃🕺✨

We will never forget Kuya’s own wedding day too. We cried happy tears — because after so many years of giving everything of himself for his family, it was finally his turn. Finally, he got to do something for himself, to stand in joy and be celebrated. And that joy lives on every time we see him and his darling wife together. 

Because of Kuya, my husband joined SFC, the very place where by God’s grace we met. Kuya also stood as Best Man at our wedding, because after our fathers, he is truly the best man we have ever known.

Nothing we can ever give back will equal all Kuya has done and continues to do. But today, we honour him with our words, our love, and our prayers. Kuya, you are one of the greatest men alive. You have made Papa proud, you make us proud, and we love you more than words can say.

A Blessing for Kuya Nanan ✨🙏

Kuya, today we lift you up with hearts full of thanksgiving.

May the Lord reward you a hundredfold for every unseen sacrifice,

for every moment you gave of yourself until nothing was left.

May your strength be renewed like the eagle’s,

your joy overflow like rivers in the desert,

and your days be filled with peace that no storm can shake.

May your love story with Maffi blossom ever deeper,

your home overflow with laughter,

and your arms soon be filled with children who will rise

and call you blessed —

just as we do today.

And because you are a man of music and dance,

may your life always be filled with songs of praise,

with laughter that echoes,

and with dance floors where your joy can shine for the Lord.

You are a treasure to this family,

a light to all who know you,

and truly, the best man we have ever known.

Happier and happier birthdays, Kuya Nanan!