POPS: I still get scared.
What a joy to catch up with my friend from way back, Pops Fernandez.
There are a lot of other traits I admire in Pops which I hope to imbibe, like her resilience and how she manages to exude grace under pressure.
She’s preparing for her Valentine concert, “Foursome,” with her ex-husband Martin Nievera, and husband-and-wife Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez on Feb. 14 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
It was Pops who came up with the concert title and the concept for the poster pictorial showing the four of them in bed. “For a change, hindi kami naka-formal attire sa poster,” she said. “Since we are all so comfy with each other, we can just let our hair down and enjoy doing the show.”
Excerpts from our one-on-one interview:
How would you describe your relationship with Martin these days?
On stage we feel free to say anything to each other. When the mic is on, free-wheeling banter na kami. We have that kind of chemistry. Sometimes I feel like we’re more relaxed together onstage than when we are offstage. But Mart and I also get a chance to have serious talks. We don’t meddle in each other’s lives. No unsolicited advice. We know we can always run to each other when we feel the need to do so.
What do you think is the magic of your tandem with him all these years?
Sometimes we wonder nga and say, “Kinikilig pa rin kayo watching us perform (laughs).” Perhaps the audience feels our honesty and sincerity. We don’t lead them on. Even if we’re no longer a couple, performing together is something we will never get tired of doing. We feel blessed that there is still public clamor for it. We have so much respect for each other and it shows.
What’s your song for Martin these days?
“Times of Your Life.”
What do you miss most about Martin?
The feeling of having a complete family.
What’s your reaction to talks linking you to this and that guy?
I just laugh it all off. I have found peace. No amount of intrigues can get to me now. Graduate na ako diyan.
What’s your advice to your son Robin, who’s starting his own music career?
I am so proud of him. I love his song, “Stay Strong.” Please check out his website, robinnieveramusic.com. You can download his album, “Nightmares,” for free. I told him just to be passionate about his dream and to listen and learn from others.
How will Martin, Reg, Ogie and you not upstage each other?
I don’t think there will be a problem because we will all have our moments to shine. We are so familiar with each other so gamay na namin ang isa’t isa, plus our director is Rowell Santiago na kabisado na lahat ang styles and quirks namin. Aside from our production numbers, I’m looking forward to the kulitan, tuksuhan and asaran during the concert. We all adjusted our talent fees for the show to push through.
What’s your beauty secret?
I think positive. Plus a little help from Endless Collagen which I drink daily. It’s available via my website, cheapipay.com.ph and at Mercury Drug. We always have to maintain our market value (laughs).
Do you still believe in forever?
I believe in forever. I forever believe in change. I still get scared but I always welcome it because it’s always exciting to know what’s on the other side!