Public relations and advertising expert George M. Balagtas passed away on Friday. He was 77.
GMB as he was fondly called by his friends, was past president of several advertising agencies, such as Bozell Worldwide Inc and PACT/Public Affairs Communicators Inc. and was vice chairman of McCann Erickson (Philippines) Inc.
George was also managing director of BBDO Colombo in Sri Lanka, Grafik McCann Advertising Ltd. in Indonesia, Reklamen-Hus McCann in Norway and Grant Advertising Worldwide (Philippines) Inc.
He also worked as Advertising & Promotions Director of Philippine Airlines Inc. and Account Supervisor, J. Walter Thompson (Philippines) Inc.
After ending his long career in advertising, George ventured into public relations, establishing his own company GMB Public Relations. He also served as consultant to several big names in politics, including former President Joseph Estrada and chairman Danding Cojuangco, among others.
George finished his Bachelor of Arts in Economics and obtained his Masters in Business Administration at Ateneo de Manila University.
His remains currently lie in state at the Center Chapel, St. Jerome Parish, Commerce Avenue, Alabang, Muntinlupa City and will be available for viewing starting Aug 20 to 22 from 12 noon to 12 midnight .
He is survived by wife Raquel; children Jet & Ria, Yuri & Amor, Gam-B & E.de, Rallee & Brittany; and grandchildren Joshua, Rapho, Phonso, Daniela, Julio, Kato , Santi, Gabby, Gino, Marz and great granddaughter Kalisi.
