Sony Borja Manuel

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Sony Borja Manuel on March 13, 2026 at her home in Milpitas, CA, at the age of 78. She was born in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines on May 15, 1947. She resided in Milpitas for 40 years.

Sony, also lovingly known as Asuncion or Babie by her close family and friends, grew up in a large circle of family in Bohol and Manila, Philippines. She graduated from Divine Word College in Bohol where her talent and skills in baking led her to Manila where she met the love of her life Rudy C. Manuel. Together with love and sacrifices they raised a family of four children and came to California in the 1980’s to build a new life full of new hopes and dreams. Their love for one another and faith in God united their marriage for 49 years and will remain as the greatest example of love for their children and grandchildren. Together forever they are now reunited again in heaven.

Sony is preceded in death by her parents Filomeno Borja and Beata Digal, brother Filomeno Jr, and brother-in-law Emmanuel Almonte. She is survived by her brothers Julius, Oreste, Lenny, Herculine and sister Crispina Almonte.

She will be forever missed by her children Rowena and husband Joel, Rodolfo Jr and wife Jolly, Roselle and Moises, Ronald and wife Jeanine, and her grandchildren Melanie, Isabella, Diego, Isaac, Rodolfo Angelo III, Anjollie, Jordynn and Briar Rose.

Sony was an artistic baker and was known for her beautiful cake creations, from lavish wedding cakes to birthday cakes that brought joyful memories to those she served. She found joy in her hobbies of gardening, painting and sketching. She loved spending time outdoors on her travels to Alaska.

A devoted catholic, her deep love and devotion to her faith guided her life. She found peace and contentment with the Lord in her daily prayers.

A loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend for those lives she’s touched, she will always be forever in our hearts.