Ex-Cebu vice guv, broadcaster ‘Nanding’ Celeste dies at 85

Fernando “Nanding” Celeste, a former Cebu vice governor and longtime radio broadcaster, has died at 85.

The Cebu Provincial Government announced his death Wednesday, Oct. 7. Celeste died shortly after 9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, and was scheduled for cremation Thursday, Oct. 8. He would have turned 86 next month.

Before entering politics, Celeste established his name in Cebu radio, including a 14-year stint with dyHP. He became known for his roles in radio dramas such as “Diego Salvador” and “Maria Flordeluna.”

In “Maria Flordeluna,” he played the leading man opposite Alma Bonita. The radio drama was later adapted into a film in the 1970s, with Janice de Belen among its stars.

Celeste also became known for “Operation Tabang,” a public service program where his “Andoy Pordoy” persona gained recognition among Cebuano listeners during his years with dyCB-NBC.

His broadcasting career was followed by a career in government. He served three terms as a member of the Cebu Provincial Board before becoming vice governor, a position he held from 1998 to 2001.

Celeste later ran for vice governor again in the 2004 elections.

He was also active in the 2025 elections, campaigning for PROMDI Party-list, whose first nominee was Mimo Osmeña, son of the late Cebu governor Lito Osmeña, who also died.

Vice Governor Glenn Soco and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan joined the provincial government in mourning Celeste.

“To many Cebuanos, he was Vice Governor and Board Member. But beyond the titles, he was a friend: generous with his time, warm in his encouragement, and always ready to lift up those who came after him. I am grateful to have known him in that way,” Soco said.

Soco also extended the board’s sympathies to the Celeste family, saying Celeste would be remembered for the communities he served.

The Cebu Provincial Government likewise offered condolences to the family and paid tribute to Celeste’s public service.

“May his legacy of service be remembered, and may his soul rest in eternal peace,” the provincial government said.