Helen Gamboa Moved to Tears by Grandchild’s Heartfelt Graduation Speech — Gian Sotto’s Child Pays Tribute to Grandmother

Date: September 9, 2025

Introduction

In a touching moment that quickly captured hearts across social media, veteran actress Helen Gamboa was brought to tears by the emotional graduation speech of her grandchild — the son of Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto. The scene unfolded during a recent private graduation ceremony, where family members gathered to witness a milestone not just in academics, but in love, gratitude, and generations of shared strength.

A Grandchild’s Tribute to a Grandmother’s Love

During the graduation speech, Gian Sotto’s child — whose name is being withheld for privacy — took the stage to reflect not only on school experiences but also on the role his family played in shaping him into who he is today.

He singled out his grandmother, Helen Gamboa, for her constant presence, encouragement, and unwavering support throughout his formative years.

“Lola Helen, thank you for every hug, every word of advice, and every prayer you whispered for me,” he said, voice cracking with emotion. “You’ve always been there — not just in the good days, but especially when things were hard.”

As the audience listened, many reportedly wiped away tears — none more moved than Helen herself, who stood with hands over her heart, visibly emotional.

Helen Gamboa: A Legacy of Strength and Compassion

Known as one of the most respected women in Philippine show business, Helen Gamboa has built a legacy not only as an actress, singer, and wife to Senate President Tito Sotto, but also as a pillar of strength within her family.

Relatives and friends present at the ceremony shared how Helen often takes on the role of spiritual guide and emotional anchor — especially for her grandchildren.

According to those close to the family, Helen has been deeply involved in her grandchildren’s upbringing, attending important milestones, family gatherings, and school events, despite her age and commitments.

A Moment That Touched Generations

The graduation ceremony was meant to celebrate a student’s academic achievements, but it transformed into a powerful moment of intergenerational love. The grandchild’s tribute served as a reminder that behind every young success story is often a foundation of quiet, faithful love — a role Helen Gamboa has filled for decades.

Witnesses say that when the speech ended, Helen approached her grandson and embraced him tightly, both of them visibly crying. The family shared an emotional group hug on stage, met with cheers and applause from the audience.

Family, Faith, and Filipino Values

This moment resonated deeply with many Filipinos online, who praised the Sotto family for maintaining strong ties rooted in respect, gratitude, and love. In a world often filled with noise and conflict, the quiet tenderness of that graduation speech reminded many of the importance of family — especially the often-unsung roles played by grandparents.

Social media users praised both the speaker’s emotional maturity and Helen’s quiet strength:

“Nakakaiyak! You can feel the sincerity of the speech. Helen Gamboa deserves all the love.”
“This is what real success looks like — generations loving and lifting each other up.”

Conclusion

Helen Gamboa’s tearful reaction to her grandchild’s speech serves as a powerful reminder that the greatest legacies are often built not just in front of cameras or stages, but in the everyday acts of love, wisdom, and presence. The touching moment between grandmother and grandchild is one that will surely be cherished — not only by their family, but by everyone who believes in the strength of family bonds.

Related Articles (For Further Reading):

Helen Gamboa: A Life of Grace, Faith, and Family
Gian Sotto and Family: Balancing Politics and Parenthood
The Power of Grandparents: Why Lolas and Lolos Matter More Than Ever
Tito and Helen: Love Through Decades of Public and Private Life
Celebrating Family Milestones in the Time of Change