Edu Manzano to young TV hosts: Improvise

“WHAT’S Up, Doods?”

The first time I met Edu Manzano, I had gone with my mom to the shoot of his movie, “Alaga,” in high-fashion designer Christian Espiritu’s house.

Doods was already quite a stunner even then, way before the Vilma Santos chapter of his life.

I have always admired Doods’ hosting style. He is tactful and irreverent in equal parts. His wit and candor never falter. And now he’s back at what he does best in his new gabfest, “What’s Up Doods?” (TV 5, Saturdays at 9 p.m.). It’s a takeoff from “Not So Late Night with Edu” but beefed up with hilarious segments, dares and social commentary. Think Conan O’Brien meets Edu.

The seasoned Pinoy host gamely became an interviewee for Dollywood. Just “Edu” it!

How is your show different?

You mean aside from the host’s fetching good looks, tremendous wit, and irresistible charm? We set out to know who our guests are as people, not just as celebrities, and have a conversation with them as if they were guests in our home.

We also have a strong interactive component. Fans actually have a voice through social media, which affects the outcome of various segments—notably “Dare mo si Doods.” We encourage them to be directly involved in the show’s content, and regularly ask for feedback—who they would like as guests, maybe, or what parts of the show they would like enhanced.

What pointers would you give aspiring TV hosts?

Learn to improvise; don’t be afraid to go off-script. In the course of a show or an interview, unforeseen events may happen. A good host will incorporate them into a spiel, or use them to heighten his connection with the guest and the audience.

What advice have you given Luis about women, love and marriage?

That love isn’t about constantly gazing at each other, but more of looking in the same direction together. Also that a woman who would hold his hand tight as they strode into the future was a keeper.

What do you remember most when Ate Vi crosses your mind?

Only the very best of thoughts. Vi is a selfless, passionate, and unbelievably caring person. She excels in everything she does because of her sincerity and empathy.

If you were in the shoes of the actors/politicians implicated in the pork barrel scam, what would you do?

I would examine my legal options very carefully, seek the best counsel, and go through the legal process.

What’s your secret for aging gracefully?

It’s all about listening to your body. If it says it’s tired, rest. If it says it has eaten enough, don’t go for seconds. Everything in moderation, as they say. It’s also good to give your system regular breaks through fasting or a cleansing diet.

Ultimately, though, I think the secret to aging gracefully is to embrace life and cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

What don’t people know about Edu Manzano?

That I have held very rigid jobs in the past. For example, I was the head of quality control and evaluation of the missile engineering group of the United States Air Force. I had to work in a missile silo of the US Strategic Air Command.

What’s your greatest fear?

That something untoward should happen to my kids.

What’s the craziest thing you’ve done?

Undoubtedly, it is asking the public what they want to see me do. You should see what people have come up with. I’m sure their ideas will only get crazier.

What’s the best part about being Edu Manzano?

Getting to work with exceptionally talented, generous, and remarkable individuals; and giving joy to others and disseminating information.

What’s the hardest part?

Why are women always asking me about my hardest part? (laughs loudly). Offhand, I would say it’s the demands of my schedule, but that’s part of the job, and I would much rather be busy than idle.

Who are your top five best interviewees?

This is such a beauty-pageant answer, but I have to say that everyone I’ve interviewed brings something unique and interesting to the table. I just finished a really insightful and animated interview with Sen. Grace Poe; everyone in the room was amazed by her candor, intellect, and sentiments.

If you could interview Janet Napoles, what three questions would you ask her?

1) Could you use any type of milk for your milk baths? Or does it have to be fresh, full-cream, or nonfat? Evap o condensada?

2) Kung may gustong mag-print ng mug shot mo sa actual na mug, papayag ka ba? Magkanong royalties ang sisingilin mo?

3) Bakit ang hilig mong magpa-party sa Heritage Park? Medyo deadma yata ang mga tao do’n.

What makes a good interview?

When both interviewer and interviewee are at ease and having a thoughtful dialogue. The audience should come away feeling like they got to know the guest better.

If you could interview God, what would you ask?

I would ask for His forgiveness. Then I would thank Him profusely.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who pursued his vision with integrity and hard work, and somehow helped others to find theirs.

Kudos corner

Kudos to TV5 for the successful launch of their “Weekend Do It Better” programming. The Kapatid Network has something for everyone: “Showbiz Police,” “Tropa Mo Ko Unli,” “Killer Karaoke,” “What’s Up Doods?,” “Pinoy Explorer,” “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?,” “Wow Mali Pa Rin,” “The Mega and the Songwriter.”

Watching Sharon Cuneta and Ogie Alcasid’s  musical show  feels like having a front-row seat in an SRO concert.