Regine Velasquez in her sister’s eyes

Regine Velasquez (left) with sister Diane

So much has been written about Regine Velasquez. For a change, I am featuring Reg’s younger sister, Diane, who’s also her road manager, so we can see a different side of the life story of Asia’s Songbird.

I often bump into Diane during show biz events. She’s as lovable as Reg. At first, she was hesitant to be featured because she’s the shy type. I’m thankful that she granted me an interview. Diane is privy to Reg’s life since she’s with her superstar sister every single day. For sure, Regine diehards wish they could trade places with Diane.

Reg is busy revving up for her V-day concert with Vice Ganda, “The Songbird and The Songhorse,” on Feb. 14, 15 and 16 at the Big Dome (call 911-5555). Reg is kooky by nature, while Vice is insanely funny. Their combined wackiness would definitely drive the audience crazy. V-day 2019 ought to stand for Velasquez/Vice-day.

Regine (right) and Vice Ganda

Here’s my chat with Diane:

What’s the best and toughest part of being the sister of Regine? The best part is I get to travel the world with her. I have VIP access to all the major events she attends. The toughest part is how not to get affected by Ate’s bashers. It breaks my heart because I know it hurts her. Haters judge her, even if they don’t know her personally. If only I could fight with each one of them. I would do anything to protect Ate.

What’s your favorite childhood memory with Reg?  When we were young, Mama always made us sleep in the afternoon (siesta). Ate and I would escape. We passed through the window on the second floor. Then, we would climb the aratilis tree and see who picked the most number of aratilis fruits. One time, Mama caught us, and we got spanked.

What are Reg’s rituals before a concert? As much as possible, she gets at least eight hours of sleep. Ice-cold water is a must for her during concerts. And, of course, she prays before every performance to thank the Lord.

What’s something people don’t know about Reg?   She sleeps nang naka de quatro sometimes.

What’s the best love advice that Reg gave you?  I can’t remember (laughs), because I got married before she did. I was the first one to get hitched in our family.

What can Regine’s fans expect from her V-day concert with Vice? The incredible repertoire, awesome production design and fabulous outfits—which is what I look forward to, personally.

What are Reg’s simple joys?  Eating green mangoes, to have time to rest, and playing with Nate.

Did you and Reg ever have tampuhan? Ate does not hold grudges. She’s forgetful, so sometimes, even if she has a little tampo with me, she forgets about it when she sees me (laughs).

What is Regine’s pet peeve? Plastic packaging that’s hard to open.

What are the lessons you learned from your sister’s long, hard journey to fame?  That if you have faith in God and in yourself, nothing is impossible. If you have humility, patience and hard work, you will achieve your dreams. Nothing came easy for Ate in her journey. Parang butas ng karayom ang pinagdaanan n’ya.

Unlike now, people become instant celebrities via YouTube, or when they win in reality shows, or when they trend online. I’ve also learned to respect people’s time and to not let people wait. That’s one of the secrets of her staying power, aside from discipline.

Would you be willing to trade places with Reg? No way (laughs). I’m not capable of doing what she does. I’m happy to be on the sidelines, watching over her and watching her shine.

Is Reg better as a singer or as a sister?   As a sister, I can’t ask for anything more. She showers me and the rest of our family with so much love. Hindi mo siya mahahanapan ng kulang dahil laging may pasobra, gano’n siya magmahal. I am more than proud to be her sister and fan, as well. She’s the best singer and sister. I have bragging rights to that.