Toni or Celestine in real life, was born on a Friday, January 20, 1984 and weighed in at 6.8 lbs. to proud parents Carlito and Crisanta Gonzaga. Her mom craved “santol” and “mais con hielo” during her pregnancy. The eldest child, Celestine was named after a boxer by her father.
Fondly called Tintin by her closest friends, her parents made sure that she and her younger sister, Catherine, were raised with Christian morals and values, and were conscientious to put God first in everything they did.
At the age of 4, Tintin joined various local-singing competitions in their “baranggay” in Taytay, Rizal and always won first prize. She became an instant favorite among the townsfolk. In fact, during her late uncle’s term as Mayor of Taytay, Tintin was always invited to sing in community events. When her father ran for public office, she started doing hosting stints in social events and gatherings. At a very young age, Tintin was already used to facing audiences of hundreds.
Tintin had always seen singing as a way of self-expression. At 9, her father would bring her to auditions and singing competitions. In fact, she was able get through the first round of auditions at Repertory Philippines but Baby Barredo, one of Repertory’s directors, sent her home during a rehearsal instead for some reasons. That incident didn’t stop her from pursuing her dreams. When she was 13, she managed to get into GMA’s Artist Center. Initially, she landed small roles and after 4 years, she decided to go freelance. She continued going to other auditions and competitions, as well as VTR screenings of advertising agencies - all these while she attended school.
When she reached the age of 17, she took her talent to a higher level. She tried her luck in lounge singing in hotels and bars like Calesa Bar, Hyatt Regency, Sulo Hotel, and Holiday Inn, just to name a few. She went to school in the day and did her singing engagements at night.
Fate had more in store for Tintin other than her lounge act. Her agent informed her of an audition for a TV commercial (TVC) for a popular soda brand. Luck was definitely on her side. She was chosen as the lead talent in that TVC and gained instant popularity with her famous line, “I love you Piolo!”
That TV ad sparked the fortunate series of events that marked the start of her television career. Soon, offers to do guestings in television shows came but it was her guesting in the sitcom “Daddy Di Do Du” that got her a regular stint on TV. TAPE Inc., the production outfit behind the show, offered her to be one of the hosts in the noontime show “Eat Bulaga.” By this time, Tintin changed her name to Toni and became a household name.
Amidst the fame and busy schedule, Toni makes special time for Church every Sunday. Before going to bed, she reads a chapter in the Bible. Being a devout Christian, Toni continues to develop a closer relationship with God, whom, as she said, is her source of strength. Though now famous and very much in demand, she still chooses to serve people in her hometown of San Isidro - a vocation she said that enables her to be God’s faithful servant.
At 23, she has accomplished quite a lot. It just goes to show that determination and hardwork pay off well in the end. Family and friends are proud of what she has done thus far. As to what she intends to do in the years to come, Toni said she plans to finish her education and set up her own business as well. And how about her blossoming career in showbiz? Toni said she would still pursue entertaining the audiences, especially her fans who have remained loyal and supportive of her. That, she says, is but her own simple way of showing her appreciation to all who have applauded and cheered for her every step of the way.
