sandvox

speck in the eye, feet on the ground

all things Filipino... [PART 8 OF 8]


PART 8 OF 8 a full transcript of the recent 8-part video interviews of SNN's Boy Abunda of Filipina singer Charice Pempengco shown on the TFC Channel and over at SNN's official site, June 22, 2009. The uncut videos may be viewed over at that site.

NOTES:

I wrote the transcript (translation in English) for the benefit of Charice's non-Filipino/non-Tagalog followers.

This transcript has been submitted to the moderators of Charice's most comprehensive fansite, charicemania.com, for its use. All credits and ownership of the of the video belongs to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Credits to all other contents at charicemania.com, except where expressed and/or attributed, belong to the owners of charicemania.com.

Credits for the transcript and translation are by the owner of this posterous site. The translation was made to make it as close to the speakers' intentions and language as possible. You may copy/paste/download for your personal and private guidance and reading pleasure.

If the translation/transcript below are to be used, in part or in full, for commercial use, I would prefer to please be notified beforehand by posting a comment or contacting me.

Enjoy.

SNN Interview with Charice by Boy Abunda, PARTS 1-8

==============>> PART 8 <<==============


B: That is why the feeling of cheer and happiness, it's true, the full feeling of happiness and pride is all for everything that you do.


Here, now -- these are all a dream, sometimes a joke -- do you remember when you used to drop by Boy and Kris, I'd always tell you. "Say Hello to Oprah"


C: [laughs] Yes. Yes.


B: It was just a joke, but who would have thought, Charice...this is the most powerful woman...this is the most powerful woman, you know, in global television, this is Oprah Winfrey, whom you *made* to believe in you. I mean, how is she? How are you together?

C: Uhm, Ms. Orpah really is...


B: Do you call her "Mommy"? Ms. Oprah? What do you call her?

C: I don't feel right just calling her "Oprah", but she told me she did not like being called "Ms. Oprah". Just like that one time I called her "Tita"...


B: [laughs]

C: [giggles] ...and she said, "What's that?!" [giggles] My nose bled when she said "What's that?!" [laughs]


B: [laughs] So you said to her, "Tita", and then?

C: I was surprised at my self when I called out, "Tita!" because I wanted to have my picture taken with her and called out "Tita!". She turned to me, anyway, but said "What's that?". I answered that it meant like "Auntie"; she was amused anyhow.


But I was told that she does not want to be called those. She just wants to be called "Oprah", just casually, like friends.


B: Cool, ok...

C: She is really a good person, very simple. When you see her, you'd think, ok, "Oprah Winfrey; holed up in the dressing room". Of course, you'd think, "The most powerful...", but when you're with her, like backstage, wherever the guests are, the staff, she is, too.


Sometimes, she'd be playful with us. Sometimes, she'd kid me and say, "No pressure. No pressure" because I'd always feel nervous every time on her show.


B: How many times have you appeared on her show? Three?

C: Three times. Yes.


B: Mu god, i mean, my god. Ok. So every time you go to the States, ah, do you get in touch, do you call her?

C: I talk to her assistant more. I have learned to send her a letter. I always send her a letter to ask how she is. No, a real letter...


B: She appreciates letters...

C: That's right. I really buy something to write my letter on and send it to Harpo. I give each one of them, David Foster, my manager, I send each of them a letter. I say thank you.


And they tell me back, "This is just the sweetest".


B: That's great. That's great.

So, before you got to Oprah, what did you go through? Sweden,

C: Ellen de Generes...


B: then to Korea; then Ellen de Generes, and then...

C: Paul O'Grady


B: ...Paul O'Grady in London

C: Yes


B: Then, Oprah...then

C: David Foster...


B: David Foster, right?

C: Yes


B: And then, David Foster, then you were able to perform everywhere, right?

C: Yes, that's right.


B: Las Vegas...

C: Charity events 'sir' David is involved with. Those are when it feels good to discover I was among the celebrities...


B: Who are the celebrities you've been with?

C: Uhm, Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus...


B: They are big in America aren't they?

C: Yes. As in...


B: They're really hot...

C: ...all the girls go crazy over them...


B: Jonas Brothers, ok...

C: Miley Cyrus, David Archuleta...uhmm...


B: Did David wink at you?

C: Oh, no, he didn not! [laughs]


B: [laughs] With David, this was at the Macy's Parade, correct?

C: Yes.


B: And...

C: Miley Cyrus...of Hannah Montana


B: Right, right...

C: Uhm...Paris Hilton...


B: How was it? She likes you doesn't she?

C: Yes [laughs]


B: You know, you're far out, Charice. [laughs] I can't dig you...She likes you, right, Paris Hilton?

C: [laughs] Well, often...


B: Is pretty? Slim?

C: Oh, she's like a mannequin. Her skin is flawless. And you do not expect her to be that friendly, in spite of words said against her,


B: Yeah, those I read about

C: ...that she is scandalous and all that; but when you talk to her, I couldn't believe how really friendly she is, that she was the one who...


B: Ok...

C: ...dazzled...she said "Wait! I wanna take a picture with you!", and I was like "This can't be Paris Hilton"


B: It was Paris HIlton who wanted to take a picture with you...[laughs]

C: Yes, and she was like...she really is just so down-to-earth. She is misinterpreted by others as having a bad attitude, but really...I've met celebrities who are...


B: That's familiar territory to you, you know that, right?

C: [laughs]


B: "Criticized...? I know that. I've been through that already..."

C: [laughs]


B: But that's the advantage, Charice, huh, because you've been through that while you're young. Like when you see that, you can say, "Tsk. I know that. I've been through it.  What more can be painful than what I've been through...", right?

C: [laughs] Yes


B: So, aside from Paris Hilton, who else? Celine Dion, of course...

C: Celine Dion...


B: how was that moment when a surprise was sprung on you by Oprah Winfrey, when...do you remember when you sang that song?

C: Yes. That was when I learned why -- I was really supposed to sing Listen by Beyonce -- but I wondered why they wanted me to sing "My Heart Will Go On", that it must be a Celin Dion song, and I thought to myself, "Why?"


B: Alright

C: So, then...Do you know that I was told it was just going to be a rehearsal? That I did not know it was already being taped? That Mommy had to go back to the hotel to get my clothes, and they chose something for me to wear; we were all in a hurry.


When I performed "My Heart Will Go On", there, Ms Oprah mentioned the working mother with a 7-year old son, I thought it was just a fan, because weren't there two girls on Skype? I thought it was going to be the same.


I wondered about the box, I thought it was a box that was behind me. They asked me to turn and suddenly Celine Dion appeared.


My reaction to that at the time was so real because I was so taken by surprise by the whole thing; that she was watching via satellite from Washington D.C.


I was amused at what Oprah said, that she was crying even if she knew it was going to happen.


B: That's so great...

C: That was my most memorable moment


B: What Oprah calls a "Wow" moment

C: Also because the entire episode of that show, I was her only guest


B: And that was that time you were invited to guest in...

C: Madison Square Gardens


B: Madison Square Gardens

C: Yes. 


B: And then, I remember, I remember, because you guested, that Celine Dion said she was also willing to guest when it's your turn to hold your own concert 

C: Yeah, she asked me, "When you do Madison Square Garden, are you gonna invite me?" [giggles]


B: Wow.

C: I couldn't, I really couldn't...


B: and, as with all other things that you wished for, that will happen [laughs]...right?

C: [laughs] Yes...


B: When you plan for it...one day, Madison Square Garden...right?

C: Yes...


B: So Oprah is now your mentor?

C: Uhm, David Foster is my mentor;


B: Ok...

C: Ms. Oprah is my adviser. 


B: Adviser...

C: ...And really...


B: Who introduced you to David Foster?

C: Uhm, it was Oprah who called up David...


B: Wow, that's great...because, Oprah...

C: ...to work with David. That is the story of David Foster and Friends. That was the time she called up sir...David...he wants to be called David...


B: He doesn't like "Sir", ok..."David", to...?

C: ...if I could be included in the concert. And David, was like, "What Oprah says...", so he included me...


B: Oh my god...

C: So, the audience was pleased; 'sir' David was amazed, too, and...


B: That started it...

C: That's when it started, so he's been my mentor since; they got me a voice coach


B: Right. And now you're recording your first US album?

C: US album...


B: How far have you done with the recording?

C: I believe it might be finished by October, September, but the single has been released...


B: Where, in the US?

C: On Oprah...it was launched on Oprah...


B: Right...

C: "Note To God'


B: "Note To God"...

C: Yes..


B: Where Oprah Winfrey was almost in tears...

C: [laughs] Yes


B: ...right? I mean, in that episode...Ok, so there you have Josh Groban, Bocelli...

C: I also met my classmates in the voice lesson, Jessica Alba...


B: Wow

C: Josh...the guy from E.R., what was his name again? [turns]


B: Right...

C: ...then Camilla Bell...


B: They are your classmates in voice lesson?

C: They take voice lessons. I wasn't expecting, he really is good...

Oh, Eric Vitro, he is my teacher.


And I was amazed at his studio that was full of pictures of Anne Hathaway, High School Musical, I thought, "Oh, is he going to be my teacher?"


I was scared, I had to tell Mommy.


B: Zach and Vanessa, have you met them?

C: Vanessa Hudg...no, not yet, but I would really like to meet her..


B: She's half-Filipina, right?

C: Yes


B: Half-Filipina, right? What's her, what's her fam...Hudgens?

C: Yes, Hudgens.


B: Zach, he's my friend.. [laughs]

C: [bursts laughing]


================= END ===============

(download)

all things Filipino... [PART 7 OF 8]


PART 7 OF 8 a full transcript of the recent 8-part video interviews of SNN's Boy Abunda of Filipina singer Charice Pempengco shown on the TFC Channel and over at SNN's official site, June 22, 2009. The uncut videos may be viewed over at that site.

NOTES:

I wrote the transcript (translation in English) for the benefit of Charice's non-Filipino/non-Tagalog followers.

This transcript has been submitted to the moderators of Charice's most comprehensive fansite, charicemania.com, for its use. All credits and ownership of the of the video belongs to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Credits to all other contents at charicemania.com, except where expressed and/or attributed, belong to the owners of charicemania.com.

Credits for the transcript and translation are by the owner of this posterous site. The translation was made to make it as close to the speakers' intentions and language as possible. You may copy/paste/download for your personal and private guidance and reading pleasure.

If the translation/transcript below are to be used, in part or in full, for commercial use, I would prefer to please be notified beforehand by posting a comment or contacting me.

Enjoy.

SNN Interview with Charice by Boy Abunda, PARTS 1-8

==============>> PART 7 <<==============

 

B: This is what I have told myself, Charice, that what you went through happens to people.

However, uh, this is a difficult question.

To all the people who have treated you badly, put you down, said unkind words, in your heart and your mother's heart, have you forgiven?

C: We never, ever, allowed anger to be felt by anyone. We never wished to gain enemies, no matter what. But the painful irony  to forgiving them always is how we were treated back. Mommy and I, we never really did...

 

B: ...Kept anger...

C: Yes. Mommy and I, we do take note about some people, for instance, "Here, this person has always treated us badly" and like, but we always let forgiveness take over.

 

B: Correct

C: Because we never wish to make foes of anyone.

 

B: Yes. What I am also getting from you here is how you used your experience to motivate you to keep on, to make you better. You mentioned earlier how are able to express anger, displeasure and sadness into songs, isn't that so?

C: Yes

 

B: Wow. Ok.

 

When I used to say to you, "How strong this kid is"...I don't know if I told you this, Charice, once on "Boy and Kris", I said "How strong you are. How strong." Like you were just gutsy. 

Little did I know that all of that was coming from here. Had I know about your story before, I would have fully understood and say to myself, "No wonder she can be that gutsy".

That's why, when Swed en came to your life, what was your reaction?

C: Well, that was just a demo recording. Of course we were very happy about it. I was able to go to Sweden, first of all. But Mommy would tell me, "That's not it yet. That's just for demo recording. Let's not expect too much from it"

 

B: Ok.

C: But of course we were really happy about it. We waited for what else would happen. While waiting, we never expected things to happen one after the other.

 

B: Your blessings came one after the other, no?

C: After four months, StarKing Korea came.

 

B: OK. But before that, how are you?

C: Hmm, I am really playful and mischievous. My brother sometimes end up becoming like my older brother because I can be naughty. He gives in to me. I become his baby sister.

 

B: How is your relationship with Mommy? How are you in times when you do not agree with each other, because that happens, too, right..

C: Yes.

 

B:...with choice of songs, clothes to wear, for instance, or chocolates when you're tempted by it, what happens?

C: Uhm, Mommy and I, the three of us are an all-in-one package, we are friends. We are open to one another.

 

B: Correct. Like gangmates, no?

C: Yes. When someone has a crush, we tell each other. When he has a crush, he tells me. So, we are happy.

 

B: Who has a crush, Carl? And Mommy?

C: Us three [laughs] Of course, to be fair, we three have our own crushes.

 

B: So, nothing is a secret

C: Yes

 

B: So, open. Everything is open

C: Yes, everything is open among us. Sometimes, though, when Carl and I fight over something, sometimes...at our age, believe it or not, we still argue over toys [giggles]

 

B: Over robots, still?

C: Toy cars, this time. Sports cars.

 

B: How do you argue, you don't not talk?

C: Oh, how do we argue? Hmm, I tell him, "I refuse", and then not talk to him, like, for some hours we don't talk to each other. Then all of a sudden, we just laugh together like crazy. That's how we are. There are no episodes where one says "Let's be friends"; we'll just burst laughing together just like that.

 

B: Ok. With, Mommy, for instance. Of course, sometimes, she may have a bad day, or is tired, or you may be tired, how is that?

C: With Mommy, when she has a bad day, all of us fall silent, as in ALL of us are dead silent. You will not hear anything, not even for a pin drop.

 

Of course we understand it when Mommy is tired. When I, myself am tired, she is more tired because she does everything for me. She prepares my clothes, she fixes me up.

 

B: Hold a sec, Charice, I'll tell you something, because Tito Boy is a manager, too. You know what Mommy goes through, like when you sing...

C: Yes

 

B: What Mommy is going through when you're on stage is a different kind of tiredness.

C: Yes. She tells me that...

 

B: That's true, it's a different kind of tiredness. If Mommy could only faint...

C: Yes

 

B: It's a different kind of tiredness she goes through being a mother, it's different as a manager. For example, when a talent is on stage...

C: Yes

 

B: ...if one could only own, you know, "Lord, I pray that nothing goes wrong. I hope she hits the note. I hope..."

C: Yes

 

B: ...you know? That's what your mom goes through.

C: Yes

 

B: So, the exhaustion that you talk about, we understand what that is. We understand.

C: Yes

 

B: Uhm, what difference in terms of relationship between the three of you in the group, Carl, Mommy and yourself, compared to how it was before besides the arguments about cars and stuff?

C: Well, before, it was more like we weren't as happy much, of course, because life was hard. We'd always talk about how to pay things...

 

B: The loans...

C: Yes...The difference now is we're happy even if there is just the three of us. I can buy them want they want. It's like, I feel god when I can afford to get them something they really, really want. I can see it in their faces and they deserve to have what they want.

 

B: And also, Charice, success is sweeter. It's a sweeter achievement because of what you all went through

C: Yes

 

B: Isn't that so? Also, a question: Are you this gutsy because when you were growing up -- it's not like you are all big and taller now [laughs] -- 

C: But not grown any taller [giggles]

 

B: ...all your life, you witnessed how equally gutsy Mommy was been?

C: Yes, that's true.

 

B: Isn't that right?

C: Yes. You know, sometimes, we catch her crying by herself.

 

B: Do you feel weak when you see her cry?

C: When Mommy cries, we both cry. When we see her cry, we all cry so that it's all...shared [laughs] No one is left out. [giggles]

 

B: [laughs] If back then, "You're My World", "I Who Have Nothing", it was Mommy who picked the songs for you, how is it now? I mean, is it still Mommy?

C: It's still Mommy. Like, for the coming concert, we talked yesterday about it and she said "Ming, why don't you include a new song in your concert" so that...

 

B: That was Mommy, speaking, right?

C: Yes, that was Mommy. I said "Ok, what song?"

Well, Mommy wanted Beyonce, so, hey, [claps] a new song! [laughs]

 

B: [laughs]

C: Of course, what Mommy likes, I like, too!

 

B: Now, you are the old school! [laughs]

C: [laughs] I am...It didn't occur to me, it didn't cross my mind what Mommy had thought of, so, there.

 

B: Talk about your concert, go ahead.

C: Yes. It's my first major concert. So, it's another achievement for me.

 

B: First major concert here in the Philippines

C: Philippines, yes

 

B: Don't forget that we are now international

C: [laughs]

 

B: First major concert in the Philippines

C: Yes, here in the Philippines...

 

B: Where will this be?

C: At the SMX Convention Center and...

 

B: Ok, that's a really beautiful place..

C: ...I never imagined it and I am super excited because our special guest is Ms Regine Velasquez...

 

B: Wow. Wow.

C: [raises her hands] I can tell you that there will be a lot to watch out for because this concert is going to be about the music of my life, from the start, to today.

 

This will be different, from the concept of the concert; we really prepared for this.

 

B: When?

C: On June 27 at 8 p.m. And for the tickets, call 911-5555

 

B: Ok. This is something I've always said even when you had just started going to America to perform, you make us proud, us Pinoys (Filipinos). You've done so much for us, Charice, you make us proud, you make us feel good about ourselves, about being a Filipino, about being artists.

For instance, you don't have to be a singer to feel proud because of what you've done for us and for this country.

I always say what a beautiful life story you have; that there are many things one can talk about you, but as an expression of support for you, each Filipino should have a copy of your albums. Really, it's true.

C: Thank you.

 

B: Because, with what you have achieved, we have also achieved because of you. We all should get a ticket because this is not a just a story of your life but of ours.

 

So, talk about Charice's story, all what she went through, but let us not forget that the core of this story is God's gift to you, a very beautiful voice.

You know, your musicality, your music, the gift of voice--all of these, together with your story, is what we hear.

You are a big part of the Filipino story. You make us proud. You really make us proud.

Now, Regine Velasquez is my friend. I saw how you reacted, how happy you are to have Regina in your concert. I mean, she's also a part of my life. All of our dreams you fulfilled for us. All the doors we wanted open, you started to unlock. It's true.

And I will not, we will not, tire of ever follow you. I will follow you even up in Baguio.

C: [giggles] Thank you

 

B: That's true. Because your story is our story. Your story is the Philippines' story.


- END PART 7 -

 

(download)

all things Filipino... [PART 6 OF 8]


PART 6 of 8 a full transcript of the recent 8-part video interviews of SNN's Boy Abunda of Filipina singer Charice Pempengco shown on the TFC Channel and over at SNN's official site, June 22, 2009. The uncut videos may be viewed over at that site.

NOTES:

I wrote the transcript (translation in English) for the benefit of Charice's non-Filipino/non-Tagalog followers.

This transcript has been submitted to the moderators of Charice's most comprehensive fansite, charicemania.com, for its use. All credits and ownership of the of the video belongs to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Credits to all other contents at charicemania.com, except where expressed and/or attributed, belong to the owners of charicemania.com.

Credits for the transcript and translation are by the owner of this posterous site. The translation was made to make it as close to the speakers' intentions and language as possible. You may copy/paste/download for your personal and private guidance and reading pleasure.

If the translation/transcript below are to be used, in part or in full, for commercial use, I would prefer to please be notified beforehand by posting a comment or contacting me.

Enjoy.

SNN Interview with Charice by Boy Abunda, PARTS 1-8

==============>> PART 6 <<==============


C: You see, they used to tell me that I will not get anywhere because I did not possess 'star quality'.

 

That they used to say "She won't get anywhere. She is not beautiful enough". That hurts deeply.

 

I just thought to myself that "At least I reached the grand finals. This ugly person has reached the grand finals."

 

So, it was what made me call out to God and ask for something that will make all of them swallow everything they said about me. That I was not beautiful enough and will not make it anywhere. That I was not good enough.

 

That's why Mommy and I heard mass at Quiapo Church. It was our first time to hear mass there and I really prayed to God.

 

B: What did you pray for?

C: I prayed to say "I give it all up to You. I hope something happens"....

 

B: That they would swallow everything they said...

C: Yes.

 

After that, Sweden started to happened for me.

 

B: Ok. Let's go back to the grand finals. I cut you there earlier. Go back to the grand finals. When your name was called for third place, what was it like? Can you illustrate the experience for me?

C: I could not express what I felt at the time. I don't recall hearing the screams of the people in the audience.

 

The only thing I could hear was the beating of my heart. It was really loud.

 

I smiled. I smiled because I did not want to cry right there. I smiled to the point that I really wanted to cry. I just stopped myself from crying.

 

When I was backstage, I asked Mommy if I could cry then and there because it was much too painful to bear. I held everything inside while on stage, while standing there beside the two other winners. 'Ate' Sarah was there, too, and they all were throwing jokes and seemed like having a good time.

 

Meanwhile, I did not know what was going to happen.

 

It isn't that all I just wanted was for me to win. It was because my mother and I needed the money. 

 

That's why when they called me out as third place winner, I just felt weak; the first thing that came to my mind at that time was "How will it be for us now?"

 

Because even when I was joining (contests), my winnings were barely enough.

 

B: Expenses...

C: Sometimes, all my winnings would just go the rental, the vehicle. Sometimes, there still would be rehearsals.

 

B: And the people holding up the banners...

C: Yes

 

B: Of course, you'd have to feed them, too, right?

C: Yes

 

B: That was the reason for why you cried? That was the reason why you really wanted to win that contest?

C: Yes. 

 

B: But what happened to you afterwards, Charice? Because it wasn't that you totally lost; you just was not hailed the, how do you call that, grand champion?

C: Yes

 

B: You were third, right? Second-runner-up?

C: Yes

 

B: Yes. But did you lose hope at all? Continue on with the fight? Unlike when you were eliminated?

C: What I felt at the time, which I told Mommy, was, throughout my joining "Little Big Star", I had not been able to regularly attend classes anymore. I told her that I'd just go back to school because I still had TV guestings to do yet. 

 

I told her that I no longer wanted to continue.

 

But she told me to just wait; that something might happen.

 

And something did come up; the opportunity for Sweden came up where I was invited.

 

B: Alright. But before Sweden, it was lonely, sad?

C: It was sad. Super. Like...

 

B: Your self esteem, your confidence. The voice of the people who were putting you down were louder...Weren't these, weren't these the lowest?

C: Yes. It was also the time when I went back to school and I'd get teased about losing.

 

B: Really? You went through that, too?

C: Yes. Really, it was truly too much for me already, that's why whenever I would hear that...I would tell Mommy I no longer wanted to go on...

 

B: What would Mommy say to you?

C: She would always just tell me to wait.

 

That was when we started to make "Maghintay Ka Lamang" (Just You Wait) our theme song ...[sings]

 

Kung hindi ngayon ang panahon, na para sa iyo 

Huwag maiinip, dahil ganyan ang buhay sa mundo 

Huwag mawawalan ng pag-asa, darating din ang ligaya 

Ang isipin mo'y may bukas pa, na mayroong saya 

 

Kabigua'y hindi hadlang, upang tumakas ka 

Huwag kang iiwas, pag-nabibigo 

Dapat na lumaban ka.... 

 

Ang kailangan mo'y, tibay ng loob 

Kung mayrong pag-subok man

Ang tiwala ay di makakamtan, 

At muling mamamasdan 

Ikot ng mundo, ay hindi laging pighati't kasawian 

Ang pangarap mo ay makakamtam, 

Basta't maghintay ka lamang

 

(If now is not the time for you

Do not hurry, that is how life is

Do not lose hope because happiness will come

Just think that there is tomorrow, there is enjoyment

 

Failure is not an obstacle for you to break free

Do not keep yourself from from going when you fail

Keep on...

 

What you need is strength from within

whenever challenged

Confidence will not be gained

To witness once more

The world passing, is not always suffering and defeat

Your dreams be achieved

If you just wait

~krv)

[cries]

 

B: You, what I learn from you, Charice, and this is for all kids and everyone who dream, that success is not easy. It's really not easy, right? And there are people who -- and it is not easy to say this -- by nature are not goodhearted. There are people who, by nature, treat others badly.

There are people who, by nature, have envy in their hearts. But what I am saying is...what I am learning from you is that we shoud not allow anybody to define us. We should not allow anybody to define our lives.

No one should tell us who we are except ourselves and God; except for those who love us.

Think about the dreams of others that are curtailed. Think of dreams that are nipped because of wrongdoing; because of the cruelty of others.

Aren't there people who do not think twice about speaking ill of others? People who do not think twice about saying hurtful words.

C: Yes

B: As I listen to you now, I wish, to those who sometimes are quick to speak or say things that can wound the heart, to please think twice.

Look at you, you kept silent, you laughed, you smiled, without my knowing that you went through so much pain. So much pain.

C: Yes

B: Now, I understand why you are such a strong person. Now I understand why you love your mother greatly.

C: Yes. [giggles]

B: You are making me cry...


- END PART 6 -

 

(download)

all things Filipino... [PART 5 of 8]


PART 5 OF 8 a full transcript of the recent 8-part video interviews of SNN's Boy Abunda of Filipina singer Charice Pempengco shown on the TFC Channel and over at SNN's official site, June 22, 2009. The uncut videos may be viewed over at that site.

NOTES:

I wrote the transcript (translation in English) for the benefit of Charice's non-Filipino/non-Tagalog followers.

This transcript has been submitted to the moderators of Charice's most comprehensive fansite, charicemania.com, for its use. All credits and ownership of the of the video belongs to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Credits to all other contents at charicemania.com, except where expressed and/or attributed, belong to the owners of charicemania.com.

Credits for the transcript and translation are by the owner of this posterous site. The translation was made to make it as close to the speakers' intentions and language as possible. You may copy/paste/download for your personal and private guidance and reading pleasure.

If the translation/transcript below are to be used, in part or in full, for commercial use, I would prefer to please be notified beforehand by posting a comment or contacting me.

Enjoy.

SNN Interview with Charice by Boy Abunda, PARTS 1-8

==============>> PART 5 <<==============


B: Ok. How was it like...Did you have enough fare money to go to ABS? I mean, was life OK?

C: We were still borrowing money. My winnings from the contests at that time were barely enough. There were expenses for food, and Carl and I were in school; there were the things we needed at home, too.


From my singing, I could buy stuff for the house.


When I started...sometimes, we'd just be taking the tricycle.


Mommy and I would rent a vehicle; there would be some people, too, who would pretend to be my fans. [giggles] They held banners; they would scream, too, because it would not be fair that the others had their fans and I didn't have any.


It was then we really experienced -- even when I did not have to stay up late -- I went through the hardship because I would really be very nervous always. It was my first time to join something as real as a singing contest on TV. I did join others before that, but very briefly.


Here, I was going to be known. It was something one could call a real singing contest. It was a real drill, a real competition.


I was happy because I was consistently ending up the first honor.


But I was truly, deeply hurt when I placed third.


B: Even before that...we'll get to the third place later...Weren't you eliminated?


C: I was eliminated. I sang "Shine" by Ms Regine Velasquez. But that really took me by surprise. I scored 90; the winner scored 92.


I didn't know what to...I felt like fainting at the time because I was just 2 points shy of the score.


When we reached home, I was in a daze.


B: With everything that you've been through -- you've won and you've lost -- you seem to not have learned to feeling victorious or defeated. Every experience is new. Am I right?

C: Yes


B: Is it not like, "Oh, I know how it is to lose; or I know what it feels like to win...". It's not like that, right?

C: Yes. Every time I join, like during showdowns on "LIttle Big Star", it was always a different feeling; I was always nervous...


B: Isn't that right?

C: It's different.


B: So, you were in a daze, when you were eliminated?

C: It must have been one or two weeks that I was in a daze, by myself in the room...


B: I understand that...

C: It was like....uhm...I really gave it all my best that time. Even Mommy was...uhm...she couldn't talk to me. I was just playing the guitar that time...Then after that I got a call...


B: What was playing in your mind?

C: I really did not know at the time. My mind was blank and just played the guitar. Sometimes, because the shows were recorded, when they'd show ads and show me, and I am reminded once again of what happened, I felt really...Whenever I recall that, I would rather not watch it.


B: But at that point, did it ever occur to you to give up? To never want to join contests?

C: That was the time I decided that I never wanted to go back as a wildcard.


I told Mommy that, as much as I knew I was just starting yet, what happened then was just too painful.


B: You did not like to go through the same experience...

C: I told her I no longer wanted to continue with it, anyway there were others who were better, too.


B: Ok. So what convinced you to come back when you learned you were chosen as wildcard?

C: That's what Mommy told me, "Don't mind those anymore. Even if you lose, let's just go through with it."


So, we went ahead with it.


B: So when you came back as wildcard, you no longer had expectations?

C: None. There were no more expectations. None.


B: Was it just fine with you? Was it just ok, whatever happens? 

C: It was supposed to be the songs like "I Will Always Love You" were those I would have sung towards the end.


I told her, let's just bring out our pieces. So, I sang "I Will Always Love You", "Lipad Ng Pangarap" (Flight of Dreams). I sang all my contest pieces.


And I no longer expected to win anyway, because there were other contestants  who were really good.


When they called me to be included in the second phase of the round where we would compete against the first honor, of course I was happy to have made it, but  it occurred to me that if I lost, it really would have been even more painful.


Because I was just one round short of getting into the Star of the Month, and I'd be hurt more if that did not happen. I'd find myself down again. I then told myself to just go on, whatever happens, let's just go on with it.


So there. That was followed by the monthly finals where I competed with the first honor. "Run To You" was when I sang and almost cried...


B: While you were singing?

C: I almost cried singing singing "Run To You" because I only forced myself into singing it. I recalled my auditions while singing it. I remembered how extremely difficult that was for me.


Even as I speak of it now, I find it hard to go back to that time; how hard it was, especially during the grand finals.


B: What about the grand finals?

Oh, that monthly finals when there were issues against me, so...


B: Such as...what issues, Charice?

C: Oh, of course, the one which questioned my age, and they said I was...


B: Ah, ok.

C: You see I was just 12 then, 


B: Ok. Were there those who complained?

C: They said that I was in fact, 14, 15...


B: Ok.

C: So, it was like, I just reminded myself that I was only human; a contestant like the rest. Why couldn't we just compete fairly?


B: That what you were going through was hard as it was, why the need for these?

C: Yes. I was, after all, like them. A contestant like them. I never did to them...


B: DId you feel like the others were all up against you?

C: Uhm...it felt more like I was against too many things, not just against my fellow contestants.


That's why sometimes I would cry to Mommy and tell her to just drop it. To stop it because I had been thinking of just quitting right there.


But she would tell me to just go on in spite of everything they hurled at me.


Like this one time I lost, I would see some who laughed at me when I lost.


B: They laughed at you?

C: Yes. That was really painful. [cries]


I really would rather not speak but I wish they'd see where I am now. How they put me down before. I wish they'd see where I am now.


B: Ok. And you did not give up. I did not give up. And Mommy was always there, right?

C: [nods]


B: Mommy was always there?

C: Yes.


B: When you were being put down before, what would Mommy tell you?

C: She told me to not mind them. Because...


B: Didn't Mommy fight with anyone? Didn't Mommy fight? Sometimes, you see, you are only human, right? Especially if she was being laughed at in front of you, or you'd hear unkind words...did you not fight back?

C: Oh, it was Mommy, of course, Mommy. She was always protective when it comes to those things.


Of course she showed my birth certificate. That I was really just 12 at that time. You see, the age limit was only up to 12 years old.


B: Right. So, that was one such case, that you were supposedly not your age. And Mommy said, Here's the birth certificate.

C: Yes. And then..


B: And then, what other issues were there?

C: That was the number 1 issue which left a mark on me all the way to the end of the contest. That was the one, really.


B: But you were not distracted by all that during the contest? With all the put-downs, the way you were treated, did you forget about these when you sang?

C: Whenever I would sing, I'd have a mix of emotions, depending on the song.


Sometimes, the anger is internalized and comes out in the way I sing. Or I would think of Mommy's help and support, the emotions come out every time I perform.


B: You cannot imagine a life without Mommy, right?

C: [giggles]


B: She's always there, right?

C: Yes


B: I mean, this is the journey which you and Mommy are always together.

C: Yes.


B: Ok. Earlier you addressed those who treated you badly...how they would see your achievements now...what did you mean by that?

(download)

all things Filipino... [PART 4 of 8]


PART 4 OF 8 a full transcript of the recent 8-part video interviews of SNN's Boy Abunda of Filipina singer Charice Pempengco shown on the TFC Channel and over at SNN's official site, June 22, 2009. The uncut videos may be viewed over at that site.

NOTES:

I wrote the transcript (translation in English) for the benefit of Charice's non-Filipino/non-Tagalog followers.

This transcript has been submitted to the moderators of Charice's most comprehensive fansite, charicemania.com, for its use. All credits and ownership of the of the video belongs to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Credits to all other contents at charicemania.com, except where expressed and/or attributed, belong to the owners of charicemania.com.

Credits for the transcript and translation are by the owner of this posterous site. The translation was made to make it as close to the speakers' intentions and language as possible. You may copy/paste/download for your personal and private guidance and reading pleasure.

If the translation/transcript below are to be used, in part or in full, for commercial use, I would prefer to please be notified beforehand by posting a comment or contacting me.

Enjoy.

SNN Interview with Charice by Boy Abunda, PARTS 1-8


==============>> PART 4 <<==============


B: Oh my god...

C: And then, I said, "Oh, that's my name!" And we hurriedly alighted. We got off the jeep. 


B: Right...

C: I also experienced once, because of the number of contestants, the contest ended at 7 a.m. That was painful. The contest ended at 7 a.m., I had a hard time and did not get anything.


B: You did not win?

C: I did not win because there were so many of us. After giving all my best in that contest which ended at 7 a.m...I was just lying on the floor...


B: And what time did that start?

C: It started at 10 p.m. [giggles]


B: My god, that was long...10, 11, 12, 1, 2, 3, 4,  5, 6...

C: And I happen to be the type who, when I fall asleep, when I feel sleepy, I tend to lose my voice.

 

I was called "sand" and "Cinderella"...


B: "Cinderella" because...

C: By midnight, my voice gets raspy when I become sleepy...


B: Ah, ok. Let's talk about that. So, how do you take care of your voice now? Still like before?

C: Well, I'm no longer that way because I got used to it already. LIke when I go to the States and there's a time difference...


B: Right.

C: But before, the others would laugh at me. They'd be happy when they know I get sleepy...


B: Because when you feel sleepy...

C: I start to lose my voice...


B: You start to lose your voice..."Cinderella" and "sand"

C: Yes. Those were instances they would wait for to happen to me, that I get sleepy...


B: And these were your competitors?

C: Yes


B: Those who say: Let's hope she gets called after 12 midnight...

C: Yes. But there were times when I really never get sleepy because Mommy brings along toy soldiers...


B: And you play?

C: I play... 


B: And you'd be up and alert...

C: Yes


B: And as long as you never get sleepy, you still have your voice...

C: Yes. I really try not to be sleepy. When I get to feeling sleepy, that's really a problem.


B: Ok

C: Because that's usually the reason why I lose; I become sleepy and my voice becomes raspy.


B: Of course, your voice does not come out.

C: Yes


B: Wait. So, now, how do you take care of it? Do you drink cold water? What is the secret? No, not secret, but how do you take care of your voice now, Charice?

C: Well, staying up late can not be avoided...


B: Especially in our work

C: Yes. But, hmmm...


B: Sleep? Do you like to sleep? 

C: Not really. I just really drink water a lot


B: Water

C: ...that's not chilled. I really drink lots of water that's why I have to relieve myself often.


B: Right. But what can you eat. What does Mommy say? What can you drink? Are there food not allowed?

C: Right now...


B: Can you eat chocolates?

C: Oh, chocolates are not allowed, of course; sweets.


B:Chocolates

C: There was a time when.. I gained weight, so I was on a diet. Like, now, the concert date is nearing, I really have to go on a diet...


B: Wait a sec, why do you look sexy now?

C: [Laughs]


B: You lost weight

C: I'm really on a diet now.


B: You look really good. What type of diet?

C: The kind that allows me to eat more in the morning, then, lesser during lunch, and just low fat milk after 6.


B: Ah..ok...

C: And, I think it is taking effect [laughs]


B: Well, not yet. When I came in to your house, I hardly recognized you. I told myself: "How sexy Charice is". You are now 17. 

C: [Laughs] Yes


B: Isn't that right? Ok, now. Let's talk about...let's talk about "Little Big Star"

C: Yes


B: What is the story? How did Mommy and you get to ABS-CBN, your preparation, what is the story behind that?

C: "Little Big Star" then was really called "Kiddie Kampeon". I remember that very well because they flashed the call for auditions at SM Bicutan on TV ... I was the contestant, among all who made it to the grand finals, who was the first to go to auditions. Really.


B: Oh, ok.

C: I really fell in line for it


B: What was your audition piece?

C: "How Could You Say You Love Me" by 'Ate' Sarah [laughs]


B: Beautiful. Ok.

C: Yes. So that was what I sang for my audition, I remember. My audition master at that time was Jonathan Manalo.


B: Ok. Who is now with us at Star Records...

C: And and I also sang "Shine" by Ms Regine Velasquez.


B: Ok

C: When I was on stage -- that was not the final screening yet -- they cut my song early. I thought, "Did they like it?" Of course, during auditions, they say they would call...


I did not expect much anymore...But after around 3 days, they called back to say that there would be a final screening. Over at ABS.


There, I sang "I Wanna Dance With Somebody". And "I Will Always Love You". That was the time when I was told I'd be asked to sing on the 3rd week, which was moved to the 5th week...


B: Ok

C: Until I was moved to the 8th week. I told myself...


B: How was your life like at that time? When you were joining "Kiddie Kampeon"? Was it "Kiddie Kampeon"?

C: It was initially "Kiddie Kampeon", then became "Little BIg Star"


B: Ok. How was...?


- END PART 4 -

(download)

all things Filipino...[PART 3 of 8]


PART 3 of 8 a full transcript of the recent 8-part video interviews of SNN's Boy Abunda of Filipina singer Charice Pempengco shown on the TFC Channel and over at SNN's official site, June 22, 2009. The uncut videos may be viewed over at that site.

NOTES:

I wrote the transcript (translation in English) for the benefit of Charice's non-Filipino/non-Tagalog followers.

This transcript has been submitted to the moderators of Charice's most comprehensive fansite, charicemania.com, for its use. All credits and ownership of the of the video belongs to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Credits to all other contents at charicemania.com, except where expressed and/or attributed, belong to the owners of charicemania.com.

Credits for the transcript and translation are by the owner of this posterous site. The translation was made to make it as close to the speakers' intentions and language as possible. You may copy/paste/download for your personal and private guidance and reading pleasure.

If the translation/transcript below are to be used, in part or in full, for commercial use, I would prefer to please be notified beforehand by posting a comment or contacting me.

Enjoy.

SNN Interview with Charice by Boy Abunda, PARTS 1-8

==============>> PART 3 <<==============

B: Wow, that’s great. Ok, let’s continue. How many contests did you join in all?

C: Uhm...


B: Have you counted?

C: Yes...maybe around, 80-plus...


B: Eighty-plus

C: Yes


B: Where are the trophies?

C: They are in Batangas because the others are, like, really old. They are  really all gathered there.

The others, meanwhile, were cash prizes. Trophies were common, but the  most memorable, for me, was winning the trophy that was taller than me [giggles]...


I mean, I have now grown taller [laughs], thank God, I am now taller than that  trophy...


B: [Laughs] Thank God you are now taller than that trophy, but when you won it, when you won that, it was taller than yourself...

C: Yes


B: What’s the story? Where did this happen?

C: In Laguan as well. In Calamba. So I had done Cabuyao, I was through  with Sta. Rosa...it was Calamba next...

So, the story was, it my first time to see a trophy that big...


B: Ok...

C: I told Mommy, “Mom, let’s win that...” and she said “Ok, just do good. If you  really want it, just do good.”


Because, you know, when I really want something, my best comes through...


B: Do you tell that to yourself: “I will bring that home”

C: Yes. [Points] “I will take that home. I will take that home”

The cash prizes did not matter anymore, as long as I got the trophy that I wanted because it was way taller than I...


B: Hold a sec, what were you wearing this time? Were you in backless, too? [laughs]...

C: [Laughs] Actually, it is Mommy who made my dresses...


B: Really, everything...choreographer, vocal coach, and also made your dresses

C: Yes.

She also started a trend with my costumes in contests which was copied by the other contestants...

These were shiny, sometimes backless; these had pants that were shiny, too and [gestures] had that towards the hem.

So, among others, the people were amazed, too that...


B: So you had a trademark...

C: ...Yes. In singing contests before...not that I want to...


B: Oh, no wonder...

C: ...They really knew me then they'd say...."Ah, Charice is there..."

You see, in singing contests, like in showbiz, there are people you start to know...


B: You know I also have an experience with contests because I used to judge...

C: Yes...


B: ...I didn't realize that there were contests where they would borrow shoes...

C: Yes...


B: ...they'd borrow dresses sometimes, for example during the eliminations...

C: Yes


B: ..is it really like that?

C: I admired the contestants who, sometimes, when I join...


B: ...and they'd join in various other places...

C: ..and they really were very young but could do their own make-up...


B: Yes, like that for instance...

C: ...and each had their own world, like one stays in just a corner...


B: Right...

C: ...or where one just stays put...


B: ..and there are those whom others are scared of... Charice...

C: Yes?


B: ...did it ever reach the point when people say "Charice is here" and one says "Here we go again", you know; were you ever a threat to others?

C: I really would not like to say anything about that, but in singing contests before, there were those whom we called the "rocks"...


B: The "rocks"?

C: The "rocks", those where the famous ones; the really good ones. They called me "sand" on the other hand...


B: Sand...?

C: ...because I was little [laughs]


B: [Laughs]

C: Because I was then very little...


B: ...and a speck in the eye

C: ...a speck in the eye...


B: Yes, isn't that so?

C: That's how it was...


B: Really?

C: Yes...[laughs]


B: This is the first time we came to know about that...that you were called  "sand"...

C: Yes


B: And so that was one experience, that the trophy was bigger than you...

C: Yes


B: What else can't you forget?

C: Uhm...


B: Was there a time...here's a question, was there a time you joined a singing contest that you really needed money and you really needed to win?

C: Yes, there were. There was this one time money was stolen from Mommy.  We lost three...


B: ...Four thousand pesos, was that it?

C: Yes, four thousand...


B: I remember reading that story.

C: Yes, that was when...so we lost the money and did not have anything for our fare. Even if we wanted to join, we couldn't go. But we...we borrowed money.


After Calamba, we went on to Batangas. So we were able to go there.


B: Ok, but the story there was...you just move into a new place, did you not?

C: Yes...we had just moved into a new place...


B: ...and you did not have a bed, didn't you? Do you remember that story?

C: ...Yes, we only had foam for our bed...


B: And then? But you had a...chair?

C: ...and then, we borrowed a chair, a plastic chair...[looks around]...a plastic  chair...


B: ok...

C: We also borrowed a table...


B: From whom did you borrow? From neighbors?

C: From neighbors. Fortunately, we had good neighbors...


B: How about a mat?

C: Yes, because it was just foam this big and we all didn't fit...


B: Right.

C: So, we lost the money. I told Mommy to just borrow and we'll join contests.

So I joined a contest in Batangas; that was quite far...


B: You borrowed for your fare...?

C: And since that was far, if I had lost in that contest, we wouldn't have been able to go back home.


B: Oh my god...

C: So...Oh, that was the time, too, when we were walking and I saw...do you know about the stalls during fiestas...?


B: Uh-hm...

C: ...and I saw a small radio. And I am the type who, when I see things like those, I am amazed by it.


So, I saw that, and Mommy told me "Ok, you have to win so you can get that".


And there I was again [giggles]. There I was again: "I will get that!"


So, I think the contest ended at 4 a.m.


B: That's how it is like in the provinces, right?

C: Yes..


B:The people stay on...

C: Yes


B: And they really watch and listen...

C: Yes


B: Do you remember how many contestants were in that particular contest? Do you remember?

C: Ah. I have experienced being with one hundred other contestants and I was the tenth. I was there really early and did not expect to win that anymore.


I was about to get into the jeep when they called out my name as the first place winner.


- END PART 3 -

(download)

all things Filipino...[PART 2 of 8]


PART 2 OF a full transcript of the recent 8-part video interviews of SNN's Boy Abunda of Filipina singer Charice Pempengco shown on the TFC Channel and over at SNN's official site, June 22, 2009. The uncut videos may be viewed over at that site.

NOTES:

I wrote the transcript (translation in English) for the benefit of Charice's non-Filipino/non-Tagalog followers.

This transcript has been submitted to the moderators of Charice's most comprehensive fansite, charicemania.com, for its use. All credits and ownership of the of the video belongs to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Credits to all other contents at charicemania.com, except where expressed and/or attributed, belong to the owners of charicemania.com.

Credits for the transcript and translation are by the owner of this posterous site. The translation was made to make it as close to the speakers' intentions and language as possible. You may copy/paste/download for your personal and private guidance and reading pleasure.

If the translation/transcript below are to be used, in part or in full, for commercial use, I would prefer to please be notified beforehand by posting a comment or contacting me.

Enjoy.

SNN Interview with Charice by Boy Abunda, PARTS 1-8


==============>> PART 2 <<==============


C: ...they had a gig here in Tagaytay, uhm, my aunt was singing that song...She  saw me singing along to it; that I had memorized the song.


B: And then...

C: So she called me to go on stage; I was nearly in tears because I never really liked being in front of people, but she told me it was just to jam with them...

So I sang..It was only then I saw the people were pleased with me...

That’s why it seems, it felt like...I was really taught then by Mommy...


B: And your love, ah, and your lave affair with the audience started there...

C: Yes


B: Earlier when you said you jammed with them, and you started to gain self confidence... 

C: Yes


B: ...even when you were joining contents, did you ever feel nervous?

C: Always..


B: Really?!

C: Yes...


If you only saw my co-competitors in singing contests, their voices were amazing. That’s why we did not expect too much, sometimes, because they were all super good, really...


B: Let’s go to the first contest that you remember joining...

C: The first contest I ever joined


B: ...where, what you sang...yes..

C: was in Laguna, at the Pavilion Mall. 


The first competition song I did was the Tagalog version of (sings:) 

You’re my world, lananana...Ikaw Ang Aking Daigdig

(Trans.: You’re My World)

[giggles]


B: Ok. You know this song because it, too, was one of the songs of Mommy?

C: Yes. She also taught me that because the song’s meaning was for her, too.

When I sang that, I won second place. So, I felt happy because I placed second on my very first contest.


B: You won right away... 

C: Yes


B: Ok, what was the prize? Where there trophies?

C: There was a trophy, and as far as I know, it was something like 7,000 in cash, I believe...


B: Wow, first time, huh?

C: ...Yes.

Then, there also was 10,000 worth of gift certificates from the Mall...


B: You must have been very happy...

C: I was very, very happy then. My uncle raised me up to his shoulders; my feeling then was, my first ever contest, and I was holding a trophy [giggles]


B: That’s great. So first contest, You’re My World, second prize, 7,000, with a trophy

C: Yes

B: ...with 10,000 worth of gift certificates, right?

C: Yes


B: So, next, where did you go?

C: Oh, the next one after I won, I lost.


B: And where was this?

C: In Laguna, too, in Balibago. That one was...of course I gave my best...I was...


B: And of course you had the confidence because you won previously...

C: Yes (giggles) And, of course, because I was just a kid then, I thought “Will I win in this again"?

B: How old were you? How old were you when you joined your first contest?

C: I was seven years old already


B: Seven. So ok

C: Yes...


B: So, in the second contest, you know, there’s a little...

C: Yes...


B: So, Balibago...what happened?

C: So, they announced the third (winner). So, it wasn’t me [laughs]


B: Were you hoping? Were you hoping?

C: Yes...so, second, second...

They called out the second (winner), and still -- nothing!


B: Hold on a second, what did you sing there?

C: The same song. 


B: The same song?

C: The same song .So, then...uhm...


B: First. “And the first prize winner!”...

C: Then they announced it, but they called out a different name!

There was a puddle of water beneath me... I stomped by feet and splashed water onto myself, and onto Mommy’s pants.

She told me “What are you doing?”


She scolded me, she saw how I felt like. Of course...


B: Disappointed, of course?

C: yes, that I was depressed...

It was then, I think, that Mommy thought I needed to learn another song...


B: [laughs] because “You’re My World” lost...

C: Well, because the songs they sang were, like, [sings:]

Through the fire,

...really mean, so 


B: Chaka Khan

C: ...yes...

So, after Ikaw ang Aking Daigdig (Trans.: You are my world), Mommy taught me [sings]

I, I who have nothing...

[claps] Complete with [moves shoulders. laughs] this and that...


B: [laughs]

C: (Like) this and that...[moves shoulders]


B: How’s that again? how’s that?

C: (Like) this and that [moves shoulders]

After that, I joined several other singing contests. That was when it was almost one after the other...


B: ...and you’re piece was...?

C: I Who Have Nothing


B: I Who Have Nothing

C: ...It was then when


B: ...there you already had...

C: ...second prize, first prize already, third prize. So it was like, I lost in something like 4 out of 10, something like that.


B: Wow. Ok...

C: Then, Mommy told me, it can’t be I Who Have Nothing all the time, so the next time, it became I Will Always Love You, orOne Moment In Time...


B: Hold on a second, Charice. Let’s go back to the “You’re My World” and “I Who Have Nothing”

C: Yes

B: Let’s stand up [giggles] How was it... Isn’t there a..a...there’s a style to that...

C: Ah, yes...Oh no!...how weird...!


B: Isn’t there a...

C: Oh no...I am amused...Oh, no...I was very little then...[giggles]


B: Isn’t there a style to that...?

C: You see, Mommy taught me at that time to stand this way...


B: That’s how it starts?

C: ...Yes, with my back to the audience...

Yes, on I Who Have Nothing...


Then--I was even in backless [laughs]--then, of course, teeeeennnn, teeenn-teenn [dances]

Then, of course, the people in the audience would be screaming...


B: [laughs, claps]

C: So, it was like [sings:]

I, I who have nothing -- with my feet doing this --

Adore you and want you so...I’m just a no one with nothing to give you but all...

I love you!...

[Laughs]


B: [Laughs, claps] And in You Are My World, doesn’t it have steps?

C: It’s with sweet gestures, that song...so, Mommy just taught me, like [sings]

Ang bawat sandali ng buhay ko...

(Trans.: Every minute of my life)...


And, really, it had to go with motion like this...Those were what Mommy taught me...


B: But you really were in backless on I Who Have Nothing...

C: Yes, really had to be in backless, and at the start [dances] and [moves shoulders] like this...that’s what really draws the audience in [laughs]


B: [Laughs] That’s beautiful!

C: (Laughs)


[Both take a seat]


B: When it comes to choreography, really, it’s Mommy, huh?

C: Yes, it’s Mommy...


- END PART 2 -

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all things Filipino, this posterous is about. but first...[PART 1 of 8]


THIS SITE DEBUTS WITH a full transcript of the recent 8-part video interviews of SNN's Boy Abunda of Filipina singer Charice Pempengco shown on the TFC Channel and over at SNN's official site, June 22, 2009. The uncut videos may be viewed over at that site.

NOTES:

I wrote the transcript (translation in English) for the benefit of Charice's non-Filipino/non-Tagalog followers.

This transcript has been submitted to the moderators of Charice's most comprehensive fansite, charicemania.com, for its use. All credits and ownership of the of the video belongs to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Credits to all other contents at charicemania.com, except where expressed and/or attributed, belong to the owners of charicemania.com.

Credits for the transcript and translation are by the owner of this posterous site. The translation was made to make it as close to the speakers' intentions and language as possible. You may copy/paste/download for your personal and private guidance and reading pleasure.

If the translation/transcript below are to be used, in part or in full, for commercial use, I would prefer to please be notified beforehand by posting a comment or contacting me.

Enjoy.

SNN Interview with Charice by Boy Abunda, PARTS 1-8


==============>> PART 1 <<==============

B: Charice, thank you very much...

C: Thank you

B: for having us here in your beautiful Tagaytay house...

C: Thank you...

B: ... Congratulations...

C: Thank you...

B: ...I feel very happy...

C: (giggles) I am happy, too...

B: It’s true.... 

I feel very happy that your journey continues, and I am so happy for all the things that have come to you, not just for those that you receive but those that you, your mommy and those you love, worked for. Congratulations...

C: Thank you...

B:... on this wonderful, wonderful, beautiful, beautiful house

C: Thank you...

B: Ok. But before we talk about your house, let’s now talk about...let us go back and remember, Charice, before all of these, before “Little Big Star”...

Can you relate how...

Let’s start when you were...let’s say, what...

What was the earliest (age) that you remember...

C: Uhm...I think it was when I was joining singing contests...maybe around 7 years old 


B: Seven. You still remember that?

C: ...8, 9...


B: Really? But before that, were you just like, playing?

C: Uhm...well, of course, I was just an ordinary student; I played with my brother...

You see, even when I was young, I wasn’t really much into going out of our house. So, even today, I get asked, “Do I ever go to malls?” But I never really was into hanging out in malls, even before.


So, I am what you may call a real homebody.


B: So your earliest memories were really just of playing with Carl...

C: Yes, just play...


B: Like, what kind of games?

C: My brother’s interest was really with robots that’s why I never had Barbie dolls at home; (because) we shared whatever toys he had.

So, all my toys were for boys [giggles]

Because if I played with a Barbie, he would refuse to play with me...and because I would easily feel hurt if he didn’t, I would, instead, give him the chance and I’d play with the same toys he had.


B: That’s right. So that you’d be like best friends

C: Yes (gigles)


B: ...you’d relent to playing with robots together

C: Yes...


B: Ok, so that was before you started to join singing contests?

C: Yes.


B: But before you started joining, ah, singing contests, how was it...you and your mother...

I know that Mommy...was...a singer...

C: Yes


B: ...still is, actually...still a singer.

C: [giggles]


B: So how was that? Did she teach you when you were very young yet?

C: Ahmm, when she discovered me (singing) at 4 (years old); I think then she (started) to teach and give me serious training around the time I started joining singing contest, about 6 or 7 years old.


B: Ah, ok. But how did Mommy discover you at 4 that you could sing?

C: Uhm...I really used to listen to them sing before whenever they’d practice songs by Tina Turner, Whitney Houston...

B: With the band?

C: Yes, when they had a band.


But I did not want them to hear me sing because I was stuttering; I felt embarrassed that they might laugh at me, that I may have gotten the lyrics all wrong ...


But then when they would always sing My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion over and over, I eventually memorized it.

When they left after practice, I sang it by myself.


Whenever they’d practice, I observed how they press buttons of the karaoke machine; how to make it play, rewind...I learned to do those.


So, (one time) after they had left, I sang it by myself.


Only my brother was there, and of course, he really didn’t care [giggles] about me..


B: You should have said: Carl, sit right there. Tell me if I am good enough...

C: (giggles) Well, he must have been just 2 years old then [laughter]...


So, when Mommy came back, she thought what was playing was “Multiplex” [giggles]; so she just walked past me and didn’t show that she had noticed me because if she did, she knew I’d be embarrassed...


B: Ah, ok. So when your mom came back in to your house, you were singing?

C: Yes, I was singing. She caught me singing. I looked at her, and she did not react. So I thought, “She did not notice me”, and I went back to singing.


B: Because Mommy thought it was the Multiplex...

C: Multiplex...But I had no idea that they were talking about me in the kitchen, “Charice (knows how) to sing”


B: Ah...ok

So, when they came back in -- I guess they thought it was the Multiplex playing when they were outside -- I think they were surprised to see it was I singing, but she did not show any reaction when she saw me because I might get distracted...


B: Ok. So that explains -- your watching them practice in the band -- that explains why your song choices are Celine Dion...

C: Yes


B: Whitney Houston...

C: Whitney Houston


B: Mariah Carey

C: Yes...


B: Mommy was the, ah, vocalist of the band?

C: Yes, she and my aunt...


B: Ok. So this was in the living room? At your house?

C: Yes...


B: When you say they’d practice, where was this? In Cabuyao, Laguna?

C: In, uhm, in Sta. Rosa...


B: Oh, Sta. Rosa...

C: Yes. That was where we used to live...


B: Oh, there, ok...

So that was how your life was: just listening to Mommy...

C: Just listening, seated in the living room...


B: Ok. You knew that your mother was a singer?

C: Yes


B: Because...aside from the rehearsals, there were, pictures, of course...

C: Uhm...yes, like when they’d have gigs, there’d be pictures of them singing...


B: Ok...

C: Then...sometimes, they would bring me along to their gigs, that kind of thing...

It was then that I learned self confidence with the audience because they’d ask me to jam with them...

[giggles]


B: How old were you then? Wait a second, how old...?

C: Oh, that must’ve been when I was 5 or 6


B: (Laughs) Oh, you were already much older then...

C: A bit...[giggles]


B: 5, or 6...

Then, after My Heart Will Go On, I’d listen to their other songs...I learned the one of Larusso, a French song [sings:]

On ne s’aimera plus jamais

Du même amour... oh, oh

(Trans: Our love will never be the same...oh, oh)


Then they had a gig -- here in Tagytay! -- 


- END PART 1 -

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