Phil De Guzman was more than just a father and husband. He was a man who lived faithfully, loved generously, and served tirelessly. His dedication to serve and love was reciprocated by God, not the way that he planned, but in accordance with God’s grace.
Phil and his wife, Jazz, together with their daughter Mimi, were active members of Couples for Christ. His journey of service began early: after graduating from Letran College, he worked at Prudential Bank—but his heart was always into helping others. He became a full-time worker in Couples for Christ in 2004, serving as Project Director of the Gawad Kalinga Buayang Bato in Mandaluyong, and later as Chief Case Officer at the Office of Exorcism in the Diocese of Novaliches. Through all of this, Phil made sure his family felt loved and included.
Phil’s life was dedicated to serving, honoring and teaching God’s ways: to his child May, to the community of Couples for Christ, to the Church, and to people. Until his last moments, he still desired to live in the grace of God, and it was granted.
Those who knew Phil can prove that he was a man of deep compassion. He taught his children not just right from wrong, but why those choices mattered to God. He guided them with patience and never with harsh words, always leading by example. Whether it was visiting a sick neighbor, praying for someone in need, or helping a tricycle driver after an accident, Phil’s life was filled with acts of service and love.
His love for his family was extraordinary. When Jazz and their daughter May faced difficult moments, Phil’s care never wavered. Even during the hardest days of his life, his thoughts were for his loved ones. On March 12, 2020, Phil began feeling unwell. By March 21, he was in the hospital, in need of urgent care. Through it all, he remained in faith, making sure he received the sacrament of confession until he passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family.
Phil’s death may shock many, but it revealed his life’s purpose. He lived fully, loved deeply, and faced death with grace. His priorities were always clear: serve others, nurture his family, and walk in God’s grace. He firmly believed that true success was not measured by wealth or recognition, but by the generosity of the heart, by acts of service, and the love we leave behind.
Even in grief, Jazz and May found comfort knowing that Phil’s last moments reflected his life: peaceful, faithful, and full of love. His legacy lives in the lessons he imparted, the love he gave, and the faith he showcased.
Phil’s story is a reminder that a well-lived life is one rooted in love, faith, and service. He showed that even in the hardest trials, God’s grace is present. And that love, expressed through action and devotion, is the truest measure of life lived through.
Credits:
Written by Jean Frances Tugonon | Edited by Angeli Arellano | Photos by Digital Missions Team | Graphics by Lester Dalumpines | Layout by Jay Lucena