June 13, 2025

Dear Dad: Cliff Hodge remembers father's advice to be a good person

Dear Dad: Cliff Hodge remembers father
Cliff Hodge of the Meralco Bolts with his dad, Charles | Photo courtesy of the athlete's Instagram; Art by Mitzi Solano/One Sports

When you watch Meralco star Cliff Hodge on the court, you would often witness him dive for loose balls, bang bodies with bigger, stronger foes, and just diligently do all the dirty work assigned to him.

That’s why it’s common to see him with ice on his knees and feet whenever he emerges from the dugout every game.

As it turned out, Hodge got this quality from his dad. A hard worker, the elder Hodge served as an inspiration for Cliff growing up.

The amiable forward honored his father in this quick chat with One Sports for the upcoming Father's Day.

One Sports: What’s your father’s name? How old is he?

Cliff Hodge: My father’s name is Charles Hodge. He lives in the States right now, in Mississippi. He’s got to be near 70. He’s born in ’63, so he's 67.

OS: What’s the best advice that your father gave you?

Hodge: For me, it was always: follow your passion, be a good person, be a good role model, take care of your family, take care of your loved ones, be respectful, and just do the best you can in life.

[ALSO READ: Mom, My No. 1: CJ Cansino’s late mother’s fighting spirit lives on in him]

OS: What is one trait of your father that you would like to emulate?

Hodge: Just being hardworking. My dad is always hardworking. He had to take care of five children. He’s the only one working, so he was working his butt off for us. I think that’s where I get it from, for sure.

[ALSO READ: Mom, My No. 1: Newsome excited for mother's retirement, looks to spend more time with her]

OS: Give a message to your dad for Father’s Day by completing the sentence:

Dad, I would like you to know that ____________.

Hodge: I love you, and I’ll see you soon. The family loves you, and we’ll see you after this conference.

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