ACTOR-POLITICIAN says he has two of the best jobs in the world.
I’ve known Alfred Vargas since his Ateneo days. He has always been the kind of guy who makes you feel that chivalry isn’t dead.
I will never forget when he went to my dad’s wake even if we had not seen each other for ages. Alfred took a brief hiatus from show biz until he was elected in 2013 as representative for the fifth district of Quezon City.
The actor-politician is back in the biz as one of the endorsers of House of Obagi (HOO) for its The HOO Factor campaign, which revolves around the idea that any woman could have The HOO Factor and get an accomplished man like Alfred to notice her radiant skin and inner glow. That’s SKINcredible!
(He is in the cast of a Cinemalaya film, GB Sampedro’s “Separados.”)
Here’s my tête-à-tête with Alfred:
What are your tips for actors who want to join politics?
If you really want to serve, then go! However, you have to be determined because it entails a lot of hard work. You have to be
100 percent certain. If you’re only 99 percent sure, then better not push through with it.
How has married life tamed you?
Being married gave me the most meaningful and joyful experiences in life. It made me a happy man.
How different is the sense of fulfillment you derive from show biz from that which politics gives you?
In acting, you make people happy by entertaining them. In public service, you make people happy by helping them solve their problems. I have two of the best jobs in the world!
What’s your Obagi ritual?
I regularly undergo Obagi programs such as Obagi 360 System. It addresses fine lines, sun damage, rough skin texture, large pores. It restores “baby skin” in six and a half weeks.
Would you agree that politics is dirtier than show biz?
I’d say there’s a lot more at stake in politics because the lives of many people depend on it. If you do your job well, a lot of Filipinos will benefit from your actions. And if you do not … many will suffer.
How do you stay faithful to your wife in spite of the temptations in the biz?
I have three of the most gorgeous girls in the world: my daughters Alexandra and Aryana and my wife Yasmine. I don’t have to look anywhere else.
If you had the power, what would you change in show biz and politics?
The crab mentality in both.
What don’t people know about you?
I’m allergic to shrimps and crabs.
How do you want to be remembered?
As someone who inspired many to “seize the day” and follow their dreams, no matter what.
Moonlight serenade
Jazz singer Jacqui Magno will take centerstage at Palacio de Maynila for her birthday concert, “Moonlight and Love Songs,” on July 26, 8 p.m.
John Lesaca and Rannie Raymundo will be her guests. Expect a night of music and memories as Jacqui serenades the audience in her inimitable way—jazz the way they like it.
For tickets, call 911-5555 or visit www.ticketnet.com.ph