Boobay collapses during festival performance in Mindoro

• Comedian Boobay, born Norman Balbuena, collapsed during a live performance at the Basudani Festival in Bansud, Oriental Mindoro, on Monday night
• The incident occurred while Boobay was singing alongside fellow comedian Super Tekla, with the moment captured on a Facebook live-stream
• Medics immediately provided assistance backstage, but the comedian insisted on returning to the stage to finish the show just minutes later
• The health scare was attributed to Boobay’s chronic "silent seizure" condition, which is often triggered by fatigue, stress, and previous stroke effects

Fans and festival-goers in Bansud, Oriental Mindoro, witnessed a tense moment on the night of January 19, 2026, when popular comedian Boobay suddenly collapsed while performing. Known in real life as Norman Balbuena, the Kapuso star was in the middle of a song at the Basudani Festival Variety Show when he began to look dizzy and slowly slumped to the floor of the stage.

The incident happened at the Bansud Municipal Quadrangle, where Boobay was sharing the spotlight with his frequent comedy partner, Super Tekla. Because the event was being live-streamed on Facebook, netizens caught the exact moment the comedian’s movements slowed down before he ultimately lost consciousness. Medics stationed at the venue acted quickly, rushing to the stage to carry him backstage for immediate treatment.

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While Super Tekla continued the show to keep the audience entertained, many were left worried about Boobay’s condition. However, showing his trademark resilience and professionalism, Boobay returned to the stage just a few minutes later. He even managed to crack a joke about his situation.

Boobay’s history with health scares is well-documented. He suffers from a condition known as "silent" or "absence" seizures, which causes temporary lapses in consciousness due to sudden abnormal brain activity. This condition is often aggravated by a lack of sleep, physical exhaustion, and high temperatures—all factors commonly present during out-of-town festival gigs. Doctors have also noted that these seizures are residual effects of the mild stroke Boobay suffered back in 2016.

Despite his condition, the 39-year-old comedian has rarely allowed his health to stop his work. He experienced a similar seizure during a live interview on "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda" in 2023 and again during a town fiesta in Aparri, Cagayan, in 2024. In every instance, Boobay’s first instinct has been to prioritize his audience, often returning to work as soon as the seizure passes.

Aside from his professional dedication, Boobay is well-known in the industry for his deep loyalty and kindness toward his friends. This was evident when he recently penned a heartfelt birthday tribute to his long-time "bestie," Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera. The actress, who was instrumental in helping Boobay recover during his 2016 stroke, sweetly replied to the message, showcasing a bond that has remained strong through years of health challenges.

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Boobay’s compassion also extends to his fellow comedians who are going through difficult times. Last year, he was one of the first to express his love and offer prayers for Ate Gay during her courageous battle against stage 4 cancer. Having faced his own medical scares, Boobay has been a constant source of emotional support for his colleagues, proving that his heart is as big as his talent for making people laugh.

Source: KAMI.com.gh