After two decades of entertaining and captivating listeners, the iconic radio tandem of Nicole Hyala and Chris Tsuper has come to an end. The popular duo, known for their long-running show “Tambalan” on Love Radio, announced their parting on Friday, October 11, with Nicole Hyala growing emotional over Chris Tsuper’s sudden departure.
Adrian Policena, better known by his on-air persona Chris Tsuper, explained that he is leaving radio to pursue a new passion: public service. During the heartfelt announcement, he said, “Sa ngayon (For now), the path is unclear; bakit ako pupunta sa ganitong klase ng direksyon? (Why am I heading to this direction?)” He further clarified, “Wala po akong intensyon na umalis sa radyo (I had no intentions to leave the radio station) but there are legal requirements that we have to comply with.”
According to Nicole Hyala, Chris’ departure was due to his decision to run for public office. “Chris is leaving because he’s running for public office… [There’s a] company policy that if you’re going to file your candidacy, it’s an automatic resignation on the part of the person who [ran],” Nicole explained.
Chris, who has filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for a councilor post in Lucban, Quezon, has been a beloved voice on air for years. His decision to shift from radio to politics came as a shock to many, including Nicole, who admitted that she was only informed two weeks before his resignation. She expressed her surprise by saying, “Hindi ko naisip na hanggang 20 na lang pala (I did not think that our teamup would only last for 20 years).”
The emotional farewell left Nicole reflecting on their years together. “It’s hard to find the words to say goodbye to something that has been a part of us for so long,” she shared. Despite the end of their partnership, she reassured listeners that she would continue her work in radio, saying, “Radio is my life and I cannot imagine a day without it. Hindi ko lang alam paano ang radio without Chris Tsuper.”
Although the duo’s time together on air has concluded, Nicole remains optimistic. “[But] like all the other challenges I have conquered, this too shall pass. Pinakamasakit ito sa akin, pero malalagpasan ko din ito.” (This is the most painful [challenge] for me, but I’ll get through this.)