“Kini si Fred Araneta.”

By Chandymar Araneta-Batoy

His voice, warm as Bohol sunrise, carried the heart of our island through decades of radio. “Kini si Fred Araneta” was his extro spiel. Uncle Fred, born Teofredo Ines Araneta in1948, was more than a broadcaster—he was our storyteller, our guide, our tickler, our friend, our family. From humble Boholano roots, his childhood echoed with laughter and faith, shaping a man whose words touched thousands.

In Tagbilaran’s airwaves, Uncle Fred’s baritone brought news to life, blending wit with wisdom; kindness with firmness. His morning broadcasts were a ritual, stirring hearts with stories of our people, our struggles, our pride. He championed our heritage, sharing tales of fiestas and folklore, keeping our Boholano spirit alive amidst a changing world.

Beyond the microphone, Uncle Fred was our community’s heart. He rallied for the needy, aided during typhoons, and uplifted our faith through church initiatives. His mentorship shaped young journalists, his integrity a guiding star. Awards piled high—Lifetime Achievement, Outstanding Boholano—yet his true reward was the love of listeners who called him their own.

When he left us on September 12, 2022, Bohol wept. We terribly wept. Tributes flooded online, voices young and old whispering #SalamatFred. His legacy lives in every broadcast, every story, every heart he touched. Uncle Fred, our Voice of Bohol, your echo lingers, a gentle reminder of home, forever cherished.

  • My brother Gerry says: “Siya mao ang tinood nga INYONG ALAGAD”
  • My aunt Gloria says: “Ingko Fred, we’ll carry your laughter, your dreams, your voice, and your love forever in our hearts.”
  • My mother, Ardy, says: “Dong, your memory stays until eternity with a gentle whisper of love that time can NEVER ERASE!
  • His entire family in the U.S.A. (Linda, Robert, Eileen, Matthew, Katelyn, Daniel, and Jeanne say: “We will always hold onto the love you have have us, as it continually stays even when you are gone!

The road is long
With many a winding turn
That leads us to who knows where, who knows where

But I’m strong
Strong enough to carry him
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
So on we go

His welfare is of my concern
No burden is he to bear
We’ll get there
For I know
He would not encumber me
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother

If I’m laden at all
I’m laden with sadness
That everyone’s heart
Isn’t filled with the gladness
Of love for one another

It’s a long, long road
From which there is no return
While we’re on the way to there
Why not share?

And the load
Doesn’t weigh me down at all
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
He’s my brother.