UP Ibalon Bicol

In the last days that she assumed a role in Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables in New York City, I waited outside in a chilly evening to come close to Lea Salonga--- just to greet her and be thankful for the intense beauty of her performance. Among the lauding fans, I was there to shake her hands, watching her engage the crowd. I noticed the Broadway star was serenely polite --- her winsome smile was part of her persona which was endearing to her admirers.

In Hawaii, Philippine officials thanked the talented songstress for helping raise P9.3 million for the calamity victims--- 2,000 of them died as a result of the horrible floods brought by typhoons Ondoy and Peping. In her kind-heartedness, Lea gave a portion of the ticket sales in her sold-out November 10 concert in Blaisdell Arena. She joined the organizers in asking help for those who suffered the brunt of the wicked storms.

Such act of generosity should not remain unnoticed and must be commended. Along with volunteers and supporters the world-famous musical artist again brought an inspiring example to her kababayans. Thank you so much Lea Salonga! (Photo Credit: last.fm) =0=

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