Jose Yumang Sonza, commonly known as Jay Sonza, is a popular Filipino blogger, former radio host and talk show host.
He is widely known for his work in the Philippine media industry and his role as station manager of UNTV from 2005 to 2009. Throughout his long career, Sonza has made significant contributions to several media outlets across the country.
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- Full name: Jose Yumang Sonza
- Stage Name: Jay Sonza
- Date of birth: September 20, 1955
- Age: 68 years old
- Place of birth: Macabebe, Philippines
- Nationality: Philippines
- Occupation: Filipino blogger and former radio host
- Height: Unknown
- Parents: Dalmacio Isip Sonza Noel Velasquez Sonza, Segundina Viray Yumang
- Siblings: Unknown
- Spouse: Thelma Hernandez
- Children: Jose Constantine, Ma. Krishna Jennifer, Christian Jay, Ma. Theresa Jae, Chelin Joan
- Relationship: Married
- Net Worth: $1 Million – $5 Million
Early life and education
Jose Yumang Sonza was born on September 20, 1955 in Macabebe, Philippines. His parents were Dalmacio Isip Sonza Noel Velasquez Sonza and Segundina Viray Yumang. The family later moved to Bansalan, Davao del Sur where Jay spent his childhood.
Sonza completed his initial education in Bansalan and continued his studies at the University of Mindanao, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He continued his studies at the University of the Philippines, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics. He also majored in satellite broadcasting at the University of Nebraska and also attended East-West University in Hawaii. He attended a program at the Civil Service Institute.
Career
Jay Sonza started his media career as a DJ and news anchor at DXGE in Davao City. His early career included writing for radio shows and publications such as People’s Daily Forum, Philippine News Agency and various Mindanao-based periodicals.
Sonza’s career began in 1987 when he joined ABS-CBN and co-hosted the popular news and entertainment program Mel and Jay with Mel Tiangco. After leaving ABS-CBN in 1995, he moved to GMA Network, continuing his success with shows such as Partners Mel and Jay and Tapatan with Jay Sonza.
In 2005, Sonza took up the role of radio station manager at UNTV-37. He then pursued a career in politics, running for senator in 2004 and vice president in 2010. In recent years, Sonza has turned to social media, where he shares his views and commentary on a variety of political and social issues. His outspoken nature has earned him both admiration and controversy.
Throughout his career, Sonza has received numerous awards, including the PMPC Star Award for Television, the Catholic Mass Media Award for Public Service, and the Rotary Club of Manila Outstanding Journalist Award.
Social media
- Instagram Name: @jayr.sonza
Personal life
Jay Sonza is married to Thelma Hernandez, with whom he has a daughter. He was previously married and that marriage produced five children: Jose Constantine, Ma. Krishna Jennifer, Christian Jay, Ma. Theresa Jae, and Chelin Joan. The marriage was annulled in 1999.
Sonza also had a long-term relationship with prominent Filipino journalist Mel Tiangco, with whom he had a notable professional and personal partnership. The relationship ended in 2001.
Net worth
Jay Sonza’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million, thanks to his long career in radio and his consulting role at SMNI. His wealth comes from a combination of career earnings, investments, and other business ventures.
