Celebs share their ‘Ogie stories’

Since it’s the birthday of my dear friend, Ogie Alcasid, on Aug. 27, allow me to pay tribute to him.

Kindness is a gift that Ogie was born with. He’s such a gentle soul with a beautiful heart. I am forever grateful to him for gamely holding a mini-concert in all my parties.

Ogie is never too busy to be a friend. He is so real that it makes me almost forget how famous he is.

In celebration of his birthday, the singer-songwriter will have a concert, “Ayokong Tumanda,” on Aug. 26 and 27, 8 p.m. at the Music Museum in Greenhills (For tickets, call 8919999). Musical direction is by Ryan Cayabyab.

One of Ogie’s biggest hits, “Nandito Ako,” is more than just a song. It’s a promise he fulfills to all his friends. I am more than blessed to be one of them. The more I know Ogie, the luckier I feel.

The closeness of his ex-wife, Michelle van Eimeren and his wife Regine Velasquez is a reflection of the kind of man that he is. No mean bone, indeed.

Bravo, Ogie for turning your life into a “love song” by spreading goodness wherever you go. And just like a beautiful melody, your genuine kindness lingers on in all the hearts you have touched.

Celebs share their “Ogie stories.”

Rufa Mae Quinto:  My favorite moment with Ogie was during my housewarming. The whole cast of our show back then, “SOP,” was present. We all swam. Ogie thought my pool was deep. He jumped in with his clothes on. It was mayhem.

Martin Nievera: There is no better man than Ogie Alcasid! Not only in the world of show biz, but even in real life. He is the first one to raise his hand to volunteer whenever a helping hand is needed. There is never a dull moment when you are with  him. It’s not just his face that makes Ogie pogi. It’s his spirit, soul and mind.

Zsa Zsa Padilla: I did an album under Viva Records, “Mahal Kita, Walang Iba,” which featured a cover of Ogie’s song. He gave me one of his original songs to interpret as well, “‘Di Ko Na Kayang Masaktan.” It’s always fun working with Ogie because he makes me laugh! And he’s always gracious with his time. He guested gratis for me a year ago and we celebrated Valentine’s Day together with a dinner he even hosted.

Derek Ramsay: Ogie is a true person! He is so nice to everyone around him, even to people he has just met. There was one time I mentioned to him that I have acid reflux. Ogie met with some people who were selling him something that could help with my problem. Ogie told them that I needed help. When you talk to him he really listens and cares.

Jaya: Ogie was the first person to introduce me to a small Bible study group. He, together with his wife Reg, helped me and my hubby Gary to trust in Jesus Christ again. He has done so much for me even if he’s not aware of it. I absolutely admire his kindness and faith. Not to mention, I’m also his fan.

Erik Santos: Kuya Ogie is a natural comedian who never runs out of funny stories. He’s also one of the most humble and gracious people I know in show biz. He and Ate Regine always make me feel so welcome in their home. He never says “no” whenever I ask him to write new songs for my album. He’s very generous in sharing his wisdom and talent.

Tuesday Vargas: Kuya Ogie is more than just a coworker to me; he is my big brother. I run to him when I need wisdom. In more ways than one, he has shown how to be an artist with integrity, how to be a more open individual and how to give glory to the higher power. Kuya Ogie is a gem.

Ara Mina: In our “Bubble Gang” family, Ogie is my best friend. He’s very protective of me. I used to tell him who all my suitors were. When I said “yes” to one of my suitors, he found out about it, but not from me. So when we were in Palawan for a BG taping, Ogie played the guitar and composed a song impromptu, “Kayo Na Pala.” As I was listening to the lyrics, I realized it was meant for me and my boyfriend back then. That song is included in his album.