Ogie, Reg organizing celebrity ‘ukay-ukay’

SINGER/songwriter Ogie Alcasid says celebrities’ homes can be very cluttered. He is urging them to clear their closets and hand over extra stuff to him and his wife Regine, for “Celebrity Ukay-Ukay,” a fund-raiser.

“Ukay” will sell and auction to the public clothes, bags, shoes and accessories previously owned by stars. Proceeds will go to GMA Kapuso Foundation’s Kapuso School Development project, to build more classrooms for public schools in remote communities.

“Celebs replenish their wardrobes yearly. I’m sure they’ll take advantage of this drive. Not only will their homes be decongested; they will also get to help the Kapuso Foundation,” Ogie said recently during a press conference at the GMA Network Center.

A staunch advocate for education, Ogie stressed the importance of giving children a decent place for learning. “I’ve been very fortunate to have finished college. If we can give that opportunity to others, why not?”

Kapamilya welcome

Initially, the aim is to build or rehabilitate 50 classrooms, including water and sanitation facilities for the schools. For this, the target amount is P35 million.

It is a tremendous task but, Ogie said, “Nothing is impossible. Efren Peñaflorida, an ordinary citizen (before he was named CNN Hero of the Year for 2009) was able to help. Certainly, celebrities should find it easier.”

Last week, Ogie and Reg, with foundation vice president and COO Mel Tiangco, hosted a dinner for show biz friends. Among those who turned up were Kyla, John “Sweet” Lapus, Jessa Zaragoza, Bayani Agbayani, Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera.

Jessa pledged two favorite designer gowns; Bayani, his custom-made football jersey. Sweet said he would scour his closet for his flashiest clothes and accessories.

Ogie also sought the assistance of talent managers and producers, including Shirley Kuan, Girlie Rodis, Arnold Vegafria and Regal Films matriarch Lily Monteverde. Mother Lily handed over a check for P1 million.

Another dinner is set for March 26. Ogie hopes celebrities from rival networks will join in.

Gary V, Kris

Two Kapamilya stars who have expressed their interest in the project are Gary Valenciano and Kris Aquino.

Aside from shoes, paintings and old furniture, Ogie said Regine also plans to sell and auction designer gowns she has worn in concerts. He has tapped other singers, too, like Pops Fernandez, to donate some of theirs.

Ogie himself is selling long-sleeved tops designed by Randy Ortiz. He has also picked several pairs of shoes from his racks, with brands ranging from Vans to Prada. His Korg Karma keyboard, which brought to life some of his most famous compositions, such as “Ikaw Sana” and “Kailangan Kita,” will be auctioned off as well.

Ogie and Regine’s “Celebrity Ukay-Ukay” will be launched during the Heat Wave Summer Bazaar at the World Trade Center on April 15-17.