Emmanuel “Boybits” Victoria (May 9, 1971-March 1, 2023) passed away on Wednesday evening due to cardiac arrest.
He was 50.
Son Nathan Victoria, who is committed to studying and playing for College of Saint Benilde, penned a heartfelt tribute to his dad moments after his father’s passing.
“Rest well up there dad, you have nothing else to do except watch me grow into who I’m supposed to be. Will always dedicate everything to you.”
Boybits, a product of San Beda from grade school to college, was the third overall pick in the 1994 PBA Draft and was selected by Swift.
He was crowned as the Rookie of the Year, besting a loaded class led by Noli Locsin. Victoria also helped Swift win the 1995 All-Filipino and 1995 Commissioner’s Cups.
Victoria finished his career in San Miguel in 2001.
Since then, Victoria remained in sports, going into commentating and coaching.
Besides Nathan, he is survived by his wife Cielo and daughter Ciaz.
