He had a dream. He wanted to be in show business. He was very artistic and creative. It was in his third year of college that he realized he wanted to pursue this dream so he dropped out of school. Some people thought he was crazy but he knew what he was doing. He then left Davao, a city where he was living and moved to Manila to finish College. He knew he had better opportunities for showbiz being in the capital city of the Philippines. There, he met a wonderful choreographer, Julie Borromeo, who taught him everything he knew about dance. Julie took him as one of her dancers and treated him like a family. She entrusted him with taking over her studio when she would be gone. Bobby learned a lot and was soon able to establish himself as a choreographer, winning major dance and choral competitions. His name became familiar with top agencies wanting no one but the best. He said that most of his ideas would come through his dreams. Soon, he got himself into showbiz working with famous actors and actresses, starred in several films and some Broadway shows, both local and international. He choreographed award shows, TV shows and beauty pageants. His dancers loved him because he treated them like family. He saw their talent and gave them opportunities to be part of his dream. Bobby was like a father to them.
His home life was no different than his career. Although he was a single man, he took the responsibility of raising six of his sister’s children. His sister had to migrate to America to find greener pasture, being a single mom. Bobby took her six children to help raise them as his own. As busy as he was with his career, he made sure he spent time with his family. His house was open to everybody. When these kids grew up and had families of their own, he made sure that every Sunday was a reunion. He continued to serve as their father .
In his last days, he had a wish to be with family. He did not want to be in a nursing facility. Bobby’s love for life was evident the way he fought to live. He outlived many of his doctors’ timeline and proved them wrong with their medical diagnosis. None of his doctors could explain how he continued to live while all his organs were failing. They said, “ he is complex” His families and friends knew it is because he was a fighter. His strong will to survive and live life to the fullest is one of his strengths. The other is his sacrificial love for people. He was never a burden to those who cared for him. He was very positive until his dying moment. So many times, he proved himself, “I could still do it.” What an honor, what a privilege to have been a part of his life. Forever, he will remain in our hearts.
Oscar is survived by; sister Ofelia Ponce De Leon, brother Carlos Ongkiko, sister-in-law Sandy Ongkiko, sister Pamela Ongkiko, sister Marissa Ongkiko Lupori, brother-in-law Jim Lupori, sister Merian Gregorio Oakes, brother-in-law John Oakes, brother Wistrimundo Gregorio and sister-in-law Frances Gregorio.
Oscar was preceded in death by; parents Carlos E. Ongkiko, Sr. and mother, Virginia Martin Ongkiko, brother-in-law Jun Ponce De Leon; brother Philip Ongkiko and sister-in-law Carmelita Ongkiko.
A visitation for Oscar will be held Tuesday, May 21, 2019 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary, 7944 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92504. A celebration of life service will occur Wednesday, May 22, 2019 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 7944 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92504. A reception will occur Wednesday, May 22, 2019 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 7944 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92504. A cremation will occur.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AchesonandGraham.com for the Ongkiko family.
