Cesar Montano
I have fond memories of my cameo role in “Mano Po 5: Gua Ai Di,” as a talk show host who interviewed the character of Christian Bautista. “Mano Po 7: Chinoy” (opens Dec. 14), the latest offering of Regal Films’ dramatic franchise, could very well be the version that would hit the bull’s-eye because it is topbilled by Chinoy sensation Richard Yap.
It centers on relationship issues of the modern Filipino-Chinese generation. Who else could better deliver the movie’s message than Richard? Sir Chief’s charms will make viewers temporarily forget about the West Philippine/South China Sea dispute. Instead of “Excuse me po,” he will make the warring nations say “Mano Po.”
Here’s my chat with Richard:
In what ways are you Chinese, and in what ways are you Pinoy? In terms of doing business and being careful with finances, I am Chinese. In other things, I am Pinoy at heart because I show my emotions to my family.
What’s the naughtiest thing you’ve done in your younger years? When I sneaked out using my sister’s car because I went to a party.
What makes your marriage work? It’s being friends with my wife. It’s a give-and-take relationship. As they say, a happy wife is a happy life.
How do you handle women who flirt with you? I don’t take them seriously.
What’s your unsolicited advice to men who have mistresses? Eventually, the novelty will wear off, and they’ll be just like your wife. You’ll always go back to the original because the mistress will only cause you problems.
What has fame taught you? It taught me that people who didn’t want to be seen with you when you weren’t famous now claim you as their relative or friend.
What’s your favorite Christmas memory? Spending Christmas with my family in Chicago. The holidays are memorable to me as long as I’m with them.
If your life story would be made into a movie, what will its title be? “Mano Po 8: Destiny.”
Buboy in DOT
Congratulations to my BFF Cesar Montano for being appointed chief operating officer of the Tourism Promotions Board of the Department of Tourism (DOT). But he’s not yet at liberty to comment about the appointment until after his oath-taking.
Since the DOT will be busy welcoming the Miss Universe 2017 candidates, who’ll start arriving this month, I teased Buboy (Cesar’s nickname) and asked, “Will you be more of a tourist attraction or a tourist guide to the beauty queens?” We both had a good laugh.
Talent tilt finals
The “Pinoy Boyband Superstar’s” nerve-racking finale awaits viewers as Ford, Joao, Mark, Niel, Russell, Tony and Tristan prove their worth tonight. The singing heartthrobs will be divided into three groups, and one hopeful will be named the first member of the boy band. The remaining aspirants will face off in a do-or-die performance tomorrow. BOYeautiful!