In the colorful world of Philippine showbiz , where fame comes and goes in an instant, only those with extraordinary talent and determination survive. One of the personalities who has left an indelible mark on the field of comedy and hosting is Super Tekla , whose real-life name is Romeo Librada . Known for his crazy sense of humor and his drag-like persona, Tekla seems like an open book who makes everyone laugh. But behind his strong and colorful stage persona, there is a story of poverty, loneliness, trials, and change—a story that is more serious and touching than any comedy skit he has done.

Super Tekla’s journey is proof that true resilience is found not only in laughing in the midst of the storm, but also in accepting mistakes and tirelessly striving to become a better person.

Loneliness and Orphanage: The Beginning of a Manobo

Romeo Librada, or Super Tekla, was born on January 13, 1982, in Pigkawayan, Cotabato. He grew up in a community that was part of the Manobo tribe, a culture that gave him a strong foundation. But his childhood was marked by intense loneliness. At a young age, he lost his mother, leaving him and his siblings without parental guidance. After that, his grandfather raised and cared for him. But fate seemed to test Tekla further when his grandfather also passed away.

Due to a series of losses, he was forced to work hard. He had to work while studying, a fact that shaped his character and taught him the value of being strategic. After graduating from high school , he decided to move to Manila to seek greater opportunities.

In Manila, he took on various menial jobs. He became a construction worker , worked as a janitor , and often participated in gimmicks at malls. His stage was the video arcades in the malls, where he sang. It was here that he found his “fairy godmothers”—two gay men who noticed his singing talent and his natural sense of humor.

He was taken to a comedy bar , and this is where the forging of his destiny as a stand-up comedian began .

The Rise of ‘Super Tekla’

At the beginning of his career in comedy bars , Romeo tried to perform as a traditional male comedian. But according to him, it didn’t really “stick” with the audience. Because of this, he decided to try drag and create a stronger female persona —Super Tekla .

Although he never expected this to be his destiny , when he embraced this character, his true versatility and skill came out. This persona was key to his recognition in the industry. For five years, he worked and learned from his mentor , the famous comedian Chocolate , at a bar. This experience taught him timing , the right delivery of lines, and a deeper understanding of the art of comedy.

Tekla’s on-stage transformation has raised questions about her true gender. In an interview, she clarified that she is a man and straight in real life. Acting as a woman is just a strategy to rise in the industry and succeed. This is proof of her strategic thinking — she uses a tool (the persona ) to achieve a goal (fame).

The Rise to the Top and the Rapid Fall

Her television break came in 2016 when she appeared as a contestant on GMA’s Wowowin . Here, Willie Revillame noticed her for her unique personality and quick sense of humor . Due to Willie’s trust, she became the program’s co-host , which gave her national fame and love from the masses.

But this rapid rise was also quickly followed by a fall. In 2017, there were reports that he was removed from Wowowin . The reports pointed to problems in his personal life, including gambling at the casino and other bad habits. This incident dealt a major blow to his career. It showed that the glamour of showbiz could not hide his personal vices .

However, instead of giving up hope, this incident served as a wake-up call . He made a public promise in 2019 that he would abandon this life and change. This conversion led to a new career peak .

TBATS and The Biggest Controversy

After the Wowowin incident , Super Tekla made a comeback with her best friend and co-host Boobay . They launched The Boobay and Tekla Show ( TBATS ), which started on YouTube and later moved to GMA Network in January 2019. TBATS became a hit due to the duo ‘s natural chemistry , comedy skits , live musical performances , and interviews . The show proved Tekla’s versatility , not only as a comedian, but also as a host with depth. TBATS continues to run and receive support from fans.

But his career has once again faced its biggest controversy. During the pandemic, accusations of sexual abuse surfaced from his then- live-in partner , Michelle Lord Balaag . According to Michelle’s complaint, he allegedly forced her to have sex despite her bad feelings, and said that he did not give her money for food when she refused. This issue was brought up publicly on Raffy Tulfo’s program and caused intense tension and bashing .

As a result, Tekla’s camp and her manager came forward and said that some parts of the video were planted and that they were trying to fix the situation. Her close friends, especially Donita Nose and Boobay, also defended her, saying that some of the allegations were untrue and that most of the problems were misinterpreted or exaggerated . Amid the chaos, Tekla and her camp stressed that she loves her family very much, and that she did not abandon Michelle and their children.

The Clarification and the Promise of a Father

The controversies and trials have led to deeper self-reflection for Super Tekla. Despite the hardships, his career has not given up . His dedication to his work and fatherhood has remained strong.

He has come out as gay — that his gay persona is just part of his on-stage persona and does not reflect his true self as Romeo Librada. This clarification is important not only for his image , but also for his personal life.

As a father of three children, including one with Ain Gonzalez (who is sometimes referred to as his ex-wife), he continues to prioritize his family responsibilities . In interviews, he has expressed his desire to start a family of his own and his dream of becoming a recording artist . His avoidance of the old habits that once ruined his life is a promise not only to the public, but also to his children.

Although there have been recent speculations about a possible hiatus or change in TBATS ‘ time slot due to GMA’s programming reform , Super Tekla remains true to her craft . Her honesty with herself, including her weaknesses and past, has served as an inspiration to many.

Super Tekla’s story is more than just a laugh. It’s a mirror of life—of an orphan who takes risks, a host who succeeds, a man who makes mistakes, and a father who struggles to rise and change. His journey teaches that true comedy is found in our ability to keep going, even in the midst of the most difficult challenges. Ultimately, Super Tekla, or Romeo Librada, is not just an entertainer , but a living example of change and hope .