Charice’s Infinitiy Tour concert series kicked off in Dubai Festival City where she surprised her fans sporting a new hairstyle.
Dubai Tour – March 2
We’ve chosen some of the best song performances from the successful Dubai concert starting with Whitney’s “Saving All My Love For You” which was really a good choice.
Video Uploaded by ChaShane
One of the most heartwarming songs was “Tears in Heaven” dedicated to her Father and Charice said she knows he is watching her right now.
Video Uploaded By OnilMN85
The Tagalog song “Ikaw” was one of the highlights of the night which shows how Charice loves her home country.
On February 12th, a Chaster named “Amsterdam” re-uploaded a video on Youtube where Charice was singing the so-called Bodyguard Medley (I Have Nothing and I Will Always Love You) accompanied by Mr. David Foster on the piano.
Amsterdam’s video description:
No copyright infringement. This video belong to the right owner. Please visit the original uploader (CHAMU Chaster’s from Canada). Take note that Charice is crying because this is the last tour concert with her friends. This is only a fan made for Whitney Houston and Charice. Youtube link Whitney Houston [ RIP ] from 17 yo – Charice in tears , 2009 concert
Original Video from Chariceweekly:
Actually nothing unusual, Chasters have been uploading, re-uploading, editing videos of Charice, we’ve seen them all. But of course this was a very touching performance that made a big impact even to a long-time fan like me: Schoen’s Blog. Because I don’t think it’s easy to sing while trying to hold back her tears at the same time. So emotions just poured out of this very tiny body.
As Amsterdam was paying tribute to Whitney using this video on Youtube, one site caught it and featured it as “Female Cover Of The Week: 17-Year-Old “Charice Pempengco” From The Philippines Does Whitney Houston Tribute & She Did That!” Site link: World Star Hip Hop.
That was February 13th, so far so good, nothing special….yet…. until this:
Yes!! Mr. Perez Hilton featured that same video on his site on Feb. 14th and twitted it. And we know he has millions of followers right? The video went viral as “Charice’s Whitney Houston Tribute”.
(UPDATE: It turns out this video is being inaccurately sent around the internet as a new tribute video, when it was actually filmed back in 2009. But it means so much more now, so I’ll let it slide.)
Kfox95.com featured an additional video where Charice performed “I Will Always Love You” in a Japanese show:
The video even made it to the Top 5 Whitney Houston Tributes alongside with the legendary Aretha Franklin on International Business Times Whitney Houston Death Tribute.
Since Chasters love to vote – there’s even a poll going on: Who Sang it Better? So Chasters if you want to vote, visit the site.
Chasters have then started twitting and re-twitting the video and the rest is history. She was 17 years old that time way back in 2009. Judging by the positive reactions and comments to the video, it is very clear than people have been touched or amazed or even just enjoyed watching and listening to her.
Photo courtesy of Chamu
Charice could really give justice to a Whitney Houston song. Of course, Chasters need not be convinced how talented she was when she was younger and still is at this stage where she learned how to use and control her voice to her advantage. Contrary to other negative twits about Charice using Whitney’s death to push her career now, just letting them know, inform yourself first. It’s not her fault at all if news are being written about her on this.
Note: A viral video is one that becomes popular through the process of Internet sharing, typically through video sharing websites, social media and email.Wikipedia
Home is where the heart is. Indeed! Charice was home to show her love to her fellow Filipinos by having a special Valentine Concert entitled “One for the Heart.”
The event was broadcasted last February 12 at GMAT TV. Along with the singing sensation are local artists Jay-R also known as the R&B prince and balladeer Mark Bautista.
Not only that Charice sang her favorite songs in the program; she also talked about her Infinity concert in Asia this coming March. In addition, there was also an emotional and tender moment wherein Charice paid tribute to her father who died last year by singing a song for him.
Overall, the TV Special was a success. It was a great Valentines gift not only for Chasters all over the world but to her fellow Filipinos as well.
Charice is in the Philippines now and gave interviews! She surprised (or rather shocked) the Philippine media with her new hairstyle plus her brand new tattoo on her left forearm that says: Love Eternally.
Yes it’s my new look and I know that a lot of people will react about it and of course some negative, maybe a lot positive, thank you but to all the negative comments: I don’t care, this is me, this is what I want and I love it! – Charice
Opening Song “Without You”
Someone Like You/Saving All My Love
I Will Always Love You
Videos uploaded by Westiesgbb
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Don’t miss the chance to watch her sing LIVE and experience the PASSION when she sings, not to mention the GOOSEBUMPS because Charice definitely sings from the heart!
So our Manila Chasters and Cebu Chasters have been busy promoting Charice’s concert in the Philippines as best as they could. Spread the word!
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Please be informed that there will be another motorcade for Charice Infinity Tour promo. Last motorcade was a success, so we are hoping more Chasters will join this time. All Chasters are welcome to join. Please inform the organizer if you are bringing your own car. The details: Charice Infinity Motorcade this Saturday, March 3 at 8 am, Kenny Rogers, Katipunan Ave., Contact person beda026@gmail.com for further details. Chasters grab the chance to meet Mommy Raquel personally and get an Infinity T-shirt!
Here’s the map how to get there:
Those who want to print their own t-shirts abroad or elsewhere, here’s a closer shot of the design:
Click the images to enlarge
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Did you think the Philippines will be left out of Charice’s Infinity Tour? Absolutely not! To the Philippine Chasters out there this one is for you.
The Philippines Infinity Concert will be held in Smart Araneta, Quezon City on March 9 at 8 p.m. Be ready for a fun-filled, electrifying and super exciting night. Be ready also to sing along with Charice and her amazing band (Be sure not to forget the lyrics). Be ready to dance with her too. (Even if you have two left feet!)
Even if the concert is in March, this wonderful event will surely be a success. It will definitely showcase Charice’s immense talent and her endearing personality as well.
Video courtesy of Jessie General, uploaded by Jamie34Peters
So Chasters, spread the word about the concert and diligently tell how superb our princess is. Ready now Chasters? Here we go: “Charice! To infinity and beyond!”
Sporting an elegant and sophisticated look, Charice once again graces an international magazine and this time it’s Marie Claire Malaysia. The interview happened during the David and Friends Tour Concert just before the dreadful and unfortunate death of her father.
Click on the image to enlarge.
In the interview, Charice displayed her heart of gold by trying to help people in sharing their talent via Twitter or You Tube.
She also told that despite her success she tries her best to maintain a normal teenage life.What is a normal teenage life by the way? Simple! Shopping, going out with friends to watch a movie, playing in the arcade, texting, surfing the internet and dating. Speaking of dating, sorry guys that romantic activity has to take a back seat for now if it concerns Charice. You have to wait for a while. (Better yet, ask Mommy Raqz permission first but before you reach her you have to get through Carl..LOL!)
The article has wonderfully shown how Charice became more mature and confident in answering the questions. She is no longer the little girl with the Big Voice. She is now a lady with a VOICE TO CONQUER THE WORLD AND OUR HEARTS AS WELL!
“Ooohh, that’s hot!” Nah! We’re not talking about Paris Hilton but somebody else. Do you want to guess? It’s quite obvious right? It’s none other than (drum roll please), the brilliant, beautiful (inside and out), and has the voice that will open the heavens above making the angels sing their hearts out…It’s CHARICE!
Popular teen magazine J-14 had a poll asking their readers who is the Hottest Girl and they finally announced the results. The top place goes to our very own mega talented Charice who got 84%. It was a landslide victory! (Way to go Chasters!) Next is Justin Bieber’s better half Selena Gomez who accumulated 8%. In third position comes the guitar wielding, pop-country singer Taylor Swift garnering 3% and last is Demi Lovato who acquired 1% of the votes.
Charice was a surprise winner according to the magazine but to the world of Chasters she is not. We cannot deny the fact that Charice is the champion here because of her God given gift of singing. Her voice once you hear it simply amazes you along with her great personality as well.
So Congratulations to Charice and to those who feverishly voted for her here’s something for you. Treat your pointy finger to a massage and buy a new computer mouse. You deserve one! LOL!
Dedicated to all the Past, Present and new Charicemania Moderators
As hinted by one of our “eldest but respected” team member, maybe I should write about that special someone who helped a lot of people and chasters, not only Charicemania. But I haven’t been writing for a long time because for me, writing needs an inspiration. But this someone in the CM team, I know personally and have learned to appreciate and cherish as a person a lot. But how can you write about someone who does not want to be mentioned? Impossible? Not really, but a lot of time is needed to think this over.
Our first joint project: PICC Valentine’s Concert with Charice, February 2010. The idea that I told MommyRaqz back then was that we have to try that every single seat on this concert would be occupied! And because I knew that many fans of Charice couldn’t afford the tickets, this would be an opportunity to distribute free tickets!
But we need someone from Charicemania team that should be there before, during and after the concert to organize. Most of Charicemania’s team members are far from Manila. We need somebody: we need this “someone”! We didn’t really know each other very well back then but I knew exactly that we could rely on this person, very trustworthy (a very important factor when it comes to money matters), approachable for everyone, young and has a very strong personality. The right one indeed!
The logistics alone for this project was overwhelming as we’ve ever imagined before: ordering tickets, looking for sponsors, where to send the money, paypal, bank accounts, meet and greet arrangements, venue, what if Charice wants to come, security questions, programs, IDs, banners, questionnaires for free tickets, applicants, etc., etc. Being actively involved here, made it possible to have known a lot of generous people as well but at the same time knowing some who were not honest, who just wanted to take advantage of the generosity of others. Well, nothing new. Glad these are exceptions to the rule!
In the course of the countless conversations between us regarding our project, I tried to teach this person how to say NO! … unfortunately, often in vain (a person who has a very good nature, is hard to train). Always believing in the good and positive sides of others, which is neither bad nor a wrong thing, as long as it doesn’t get into the substance of one’s human being.
What followed were the countless requests and ideas, when there’s something to be organized for Charice, to promote her like TV performances, concerts and Meet & Greets in Manila (we’re talking only about the ones we knew which were open to all Chasters and not the exclusive chasters’ parties which CM was not involved with). We always had the right contact person! Charice’s management in Manila could always rely on this person, that’s a fact!
Charicemania’s goal is still to promote Charice worldwide! Not only to the few who were convinced already anyway. Of course it is nice and is also good to see known people and to see familiar faces again and again but we also look forward to a lot of “new faces” like new fans who come to us. We welcome them all too.
Message for that someone: When you asked me months ago why I became inactive for months, not writing nor posting, if you remember my reply? “I couldn’t do anything anymore!” That was my feeling. You tried to persuade me to come back but the time was not ripe enough.
When I was asked “officially” to go back in CM, it was a feeling of having to do something again when needed. We have new people in the team here in Charicemania. I really hope to pass it on, that they continue to do what we do so that we can move on and expand, that Charice becomes more popular. Only one person can’t do the work alone. We couldn’t convince all which of course was very disappointing but we can’t take it personally. Those we could convince, we hope they stay and help.
Take a break, yes, take it slowly, but don’t disappear entirely, if we could still prevent that from happening (hopefully).
To the team, what I can pass on to you personally is this: “take the time off that you need” but hopefully come back from time to time and again, Charicemania will welcome you with open arms.
Christmas is the time to give, the time of forgiveness, the time to move on, to look forward to something new and good, to leave all negativities behind. Charicemania and Team wishes you all a very blessed Christmas!
“I want to sponsor some kids (from disadvantaged background) to see Charice in concert the next time she is in the Philippines. Can you facilitate it for me?”
I got an enthusiastic yes and so began a three-month partnership between us. The many Chasters who assisted with the project and me. The journey would play out in several parts of the Philippines; intersect with Charice’s widely reported invitation to Arjohn Gilbert to perform with her in her solo concert and culminate in the kids meeting Charice in person.
In February of this year I began to compile a bucket list. People compile bucket lists for any number of reasons; some use it as a ‘places to go on holiday’ list. Some people use it as a tool for self improvement or for a bit of fun. I don’t quite know how to define my bucket list other than to say that it is filled with lots of items which I simply feel are the right thing to do. The first bucket list item I came up with: give 5 kids in the Philippines (who due to their life circumstances would have great difficulty in meeting the costs of concert tickets and associated expenses on their own) the chance to watch Charice live in concert. I drew inspiration from this YT video of some kids who came to watch Charice during a mall show in the Philippines in 2009.
Once upon a time Charice’s circumstances as a child would have been similar to the children featured in this video from 2009. I always remark to my friends and family that Charice’s success is a mark of how the world occasionally gets it right. To go from a kid being raised (along with her brother Carl) by a single mother in Laguna, Philippines to become an International Star beloved by Oprah and legendary music producer David Foster…it’s an impossibility that the forces of good have made possible. Self belief must have sustained her prior to the success, but I think she also held on to a very powerful commodity: hope! So back in February I said to myself why not give some children a little bit of hope that they can reach for something better, by giving them a chance to see Charice live in concert; and to show them that a stranger cares. Charice after all, has walked in the same shoes as many of these kids and if she defeated the circumstances she was born in, then who’s to say that they cannot. My purpose back in February was clear. I let someone know my intentions back then. All we needed was confirmation of a Manila Concert date.
Several months passed, then in July, yes – confirmation that Charice would be with the David Foster & Friends Asian Tour with the Manila Concert slated for October 25. This is when the million and one emails and instant messages between us began. That one person was the driving force behind the whole project and I can’t thank her enough for the effort that was put in this. The task I set wasn’t an easy one, but was remarkably fulfilled the whole way through. The first question asked was about what tickets I had planned to get the kids. I wanted the kids to get the very best tickets: Super VIP. I made it clear that funds would not be a problem throughout the project. I was committed to the kids getting the very best if it was in my power to give it to them. Whether it was transport, food, accommodation, clothing or additional concert tickets for 1 guardian – I was committed to giving it to them.
It was suggested that the candidates for the Super VIP tickets have a musical ability of some type so she started to scour Youtube, to look for Filipino kids from poor backgrounds with singing/musical ability (of which there are plenty in the Philippines). One of the first vids sent me was of a kid called Arjohn Gilbert. I was asked what I thought and I told said that I thought he was brilliant and gave the go signal to look for him. The email exchange between us regarding Arjohn occurred a week before Charice posted a link of Arjohn on her Twitter and Cha’s subsequent request for Chasters to look for Arjohn. We thought it was funny that Charice wanted to find Arjohn too. They found him and met with Arjohn. They invited Arjohn to the David Foster and Friends Concert to watch Charice in the Super VIP section. It was at this meeting that Arjohn accepted Charice’s twitter invitation (via a video response) to perform at her solo concert in the Philippines slated for December. I was quite amused that our little project had criss crossed with events featured throughout the entire Philippine media, with Charice and Arjohn’s exchange receiving wide coverage.
The Manila team would eventually make contact with 5 kids in total, whether the contact was made through a third party or by actually travelling to the homes of the kids, the team put in an amazing effort. The invitation to attend the concert was extended to the kids and a guardian. The five kids chosen were: Arjohn Gilbert from Marcos Village in Mabalacat, Pampanga; Joan Cosme from Botolan, Zambales; Rod Jhone M. Erejo and his brother Roland from Concepcion, Cabiao, Nueva Ecija; and Tonton a streetkid who was found at Sto Domingo Church. All these kids have experienced a life of hardship. Tonton for example, sleeps under a bridge at night, and yet when you look at them the first thing you notice is their beaming smiles. They serve as an example to all of us of how to never let life get you down.
We eagerly waited for concert day October 25, 2011 and then finally it arrived. I texted on the afternoon of the 25th to see how things were going. The text back to me put the biggest smile on my face: “Kuya, the kids met Charice in person this morning…now taking the kids shopping before the concert!” I was so happy to hear that the kids were able to see Charice at the Meet & Greet organised at the Sachi Restaurant. I was so energized by it for hours afterwards. My excitement really brought home to me how much the project had grown in my heart and how much affinity I had now developed for these five kids I had never met. I learnt later that it was at this same meet & greet that Charice formally invited Arjohn to perform at her solo concert on Dec 2nd at Newport Performing Arts Threatre in Resorts World, Manila. I was doubly excited!
Then finally, concert night. David Foster and Friends, Manila 2011 featuring Charice, rocked! From what was reported back to me the kids had a great time and were a great help to her when it came to distributing glow sticks in the floor section before the start of the concert. During the concert, Rod Jhone got a kiss from Charice as she walked through the crowd while singing ‘Louder’. It was a very special moment for Rod Jhone. I was so happy for him. Then finally the concert was over and three months of making “my organizer” run around doing my bidding came to an end. That person was my rock throughout the whole project. I cannot speak highly enough of that special someone that Chasterworld is truly blessed to have..
The question that has been posed to me has been: why did you do it? Why commit the amount of time and resources that I did? I simply say that it felt like the right thing to do. Every now and then we feel a great pull towards a cause, but sometimes sadly, we don’t act on it. I’m happy I acted on this one. The Super VIP Project had been an obsession of mine since February of this year. It has been a truly enriching experience for me, as it has been for both of us and the Chaster team involved; and hopefully the experience of a lifetime for the most important people involved in all of this – the kids.
I would like to extend a big thank you to all involved in the project, but most especially a big thank you to the organizing Team and the kids. You made it an amazing experience for me, even though I was not there to witness what happened personally, I felt like I was with you every step of the way. Thank you!
Why do we do what we do?
Author: In behalf of all the moderators
A lot of people have been asking me this. Actually, almost everyone around me are asking me this (chasters and non-chasters). What’s the point they say? As my friends would point out to me… She does not even know you: Organizing Meet and Greet for fans, sponsorships, distributing tickets, running around in general. Every time I get so stressed or have too much on my workload, I would always say, this is the last one.
And then something happened, someone whom I never met suddenly told me they want to sponsor five unpriviledged kids to a Charice concert. And this someone whom I or any chaster have not met before. Who could say NO to that? The reason why I became an active chaster in the first place was because I believe that Charice and her music could change and inspire people; To bring positivity to this world in these uncertain times. As she inspired me to be the best that I could be, I always hoped that by helping promote her to other people, they would be inspire other people as well to be the best that they could be.
I know that other chasters have been sponsoring other chasters to go to events like this. But this one is different. Very Different. It is a chance to actually change and inspire a kid’s life. So I also got hyped up with the idea. It is easy to just go to a charity group or organization and get some kids there. It is less time consuming. However, I thought it would be special if these kids get handpicked by Chaster themselves. So I asked around who their suggestions are. And chasters came out with their own suggestions.
1) Arjohn Gilbert (from Pampanga)- found in Youtube
Contacted through his Facebook account which was created by a fan
This was the video message we got
2) Rod John Erejo (From Nueva Ecija)- The kid with a cleft palate whose YT vid of pyramid got him an Operation Smile sponsor.
Contacted through the Facebook of Jessica Soho Team
3) Roland Erejo (From Nueva Ecija) – brother of Rod John
4) Tonton (From Quezon City) – found begging in Sto Domingo Church. Referred by
a Chaster. He assists in backing up cars and selling Sampaguita to church goers.
5) Joan Cosme (from Zambales) – found in Youtube. Contacted through the Facebook of Raffy Tima, a reporter from GMA
Contacted her through reporter Raffy Tima of GMA
And Yes, I was surprised that they actually replied through facebook. Mark Zuckerberg rock! There were Chasters who literally went knocking on the doors of ABS-CBN and GMA just to get in contact with some of these kids, which was really awesome. They pretended to be students doing a research paper about the kids. I think they got busted at some point.
Anyway moving forward, now it’s the time to organize a Meet and Greet and a Chaster gathering for October 25. I can’t say thank you enough for the chasters who volunteered so much of their time, resources and money to put things together.
Fast forward from all the meetings and preparations, Meet and Greet time. October 24, we were trying to follow up if Charice could have time to meet with some lucky chasters and of course the kids while she is here in Manila. The experience for the kids would not be special if they would not be able meet the reason why they were there. Alas, there was no confirmation. There was a confirmation though that time that chasters were invited to welcome Charice in the airport when she arrives.
Could this be the Meet and Greet already? I was saddened coz the kids wont be arriving until the next day. We rushed all the welcome banners the night before Charice arrives. Special mention to Java for not getting enough sleep just to finish the design and print the tarps. It was a fun experience though for chasters who cancelled all their plans to welcome Charice back to her home country.
October 25. The day of the concert! We picked up the kids early in the morning. At exactly 10 am, her manager confirmed that there was going to be a Meet and Greet at 12 noon! In two hours!!! My heart suddenly leapt out my car window coz I was driving at that time. There was no venue. I don’t have enough internet access. Not even a list of chasters who would be able to make it to Cubao (Take Note: It was a workday, Tuesday). Not all of the kids have arrived in Manila yet. I know that a lot of chasters are goin to be saddened, not to mention some of them would be furious, if I won’t be able to contact all of them on time. Of course, I want every chaster to have equal opportunity to meet her. So I decided to keep the Meet and Greet for the kids only since there was not enough time to organize everything. Considering the traffic in Manila, chasters won’t be able to make it to the venue by 12 noon if I contact them at that time. At 11 am, I just arrived in Cubao! I asked Bluemax, who fetched the other kids on the terminal to go directly to Cubao. They found a venue which was a bit pricey and according to their specifications: Near Araneta and private. And then, something amazing happened. Charice herself is willing to move the time to 1 pm. (which is actually a conflict with their rehearsals inside Araneta) and she is willing to accommodate every chaster she could.
So text blast galore! Everyone forwarded the text message. Honestly, I was a bit nervous if a lot of people would ever show up. The venue is not even fit for a M&G coz its a restaurant. Good thing the tarps for the CHaster Gathering just arrived and Beda was ready with her scotch tape! Hahaha. So we just sticked it to the wall just to make it look good in the pictures. And by 1 pm, voila! 36 chasters showed up. Some have not even taken a bath yet just to be able to arrive there in time.
After the Meet and Greet, we went straight to the mall and bought some clothes for other kids. They are going to sit in a VIP seat afterall, so they should look like one. By that time, Arjohn and Joan had a manager already so there was really no need for us to buy them clothes. As for the rest of the kids, we bought everything from head to toe. We had a blast doing a makeover for them. At 4 pm we rushed to their hotel and asked them to take a bath. And they made a swimming pool out of a bath tub. They were excited to see their rooms since they got a bed by themselves. We did not have time to linger that much so when everyone is dressed up and ready to go, we went straight to the Chaster Gathering.
We were a bit late. Everyone was eating already by that time. The kids were briefly introduced to the other chasters. We rushed to the venue since it was almost 8 pm already. But of course, the concert started a bit late too which was a good thing since chasters had time to distribute glowsticks. We let them settle in their seats and bought them snacks and after a while, after they saw chasters distributing glowsticks, they volunteered to help out themselves. Cute little chasters trying to promote Charice to people who paid 15K for their tickets.
I went back to my seat and sat from a distance. And it looks like they were having a blast. At one point they were even standing up and dancing to the music. As we went out of the Coliseum that night, head was aching. Stomach grumbling (I couldn’t even remember if I have eaten that day), I thought to myself, why am I doing this again? Seeing the kids’ faces, remembering how their faces lit up when Cha walked in the room, recalling how giddy they all were in meeting Charice, seeing their smiles were from ear to ear when Charice was hugging them. After seeing this, I thought to myself, that this is the reason why I do what I do.
Just like previous moderators and organizers made a way for me (a complete stranger for them at that time) to meet Charice, I wanted to “Pay it Forward” to other people as well, both chasters and non-chasters alike. That way, Charice’s reach and inspiration would be more extensive. “Pay it Forward” is an old concept and it seems to be a utopia dream. It has been criticized by many because not all people would be essentially good and would pay it forward to other people. Promotes free riders. I would like to believe though that Paying it Forward or rather Paying “Charice” forward would help change someone’s life in a positive way. And the more it would be put into practice, more people would hear the voice of Charice. Paying It Forward relies on cooperation, so I intend to do my part – and I have done it. I hope you will too.
I went back to my hometown on All Saints’ Day, the national holiday to honor and celebrate the memories of loved ones who have passed away, still reminiscing about my just-ended joyful ride with Charice and the Philippine Chasters. Little did I know that another chapter will be added albeit a sad one when I received a text message from abBonita that Charice’s father had just met a violent death.
Through Bluemax, I heard the next evening that Charice had returned from Jakarta and that some Chasters were already at the Divine Mercy Viewing Chapel in Muntinlupa where Ricky Pempengco was lying in repose. Unlike in the US where visiting hours are limited to about 9:00 pm, 24-hour vigil is customary in the Philippines when relatives and friends can visit at any time. I arrived at about 9:30 pm and found the place already encamped by the 3 major networks, TV cameras in place, looking for scoops and people to interview. Huge bouquets of white flowers sent by Chasters from Japan, Singapore, Los Angeles and Lantao were among those that bedecked the hall. I paid my respect to Ricky and was then told that Charice was resting in a private room. After being given permission to enter, I talked to Mommy Raqz and to Charice who was slumped in a bed being attended to. She looked tired, sad, and haggard, just like any typical teenager who lost a loved one and none of the image of a celebrity that she is. I extended condolences to her on behalf of the entire Chaster family and told her how all Chasters really love and care for her and her well being. I even advised her to take a break, get much needed rest and that, personally, I want her to be around for many years to entertain my grandchildren long after I’m gone. She held my hand and just said, “Salamat po (Thank you)”.
Video Uploaded by ChariceTVCrew
The next day, I found the place packed with relatives, friends, and many Chasters! In fact, many Chasters were still coming past 12 midnight direct from their second shift jobs just to be with Charice in her hours of bereavement. Little CutieSinger, one of our youngest Chasters at 12 years old was present who later tried to catch a few winks on the lap of Tita Wower. There was a time that almost half of the room was filled with Chasters! Charice, Mommy Racqz, and Carl were busy entertaining late-coming friends and relatives. Charice, when in her happy mood was like a kid playing around with CutieSinger, who was so shy and starstruck that it took her awhile to approach Charice and be prodded to sing a few notes. It was turning to be quite a happy occasion – a time of reconciliation, understanding and healing of the rifts among the Pempengco clan, and a time of more bonding and friendship. I decided to leave at 4:00 am quite ashamed that I will not be able to sacrifice like the many but much younger Chasters (with the exception of a few of course) who were determined to stick around for an all night, sleepless vigil. While my spirit said “Yay” to stay, my 67-year old body was not ready for the ordeal and was saying “Nay”.
I was back the following day in time to witness the family picture-taking and listen to the eulogies. Many of Ricky’s friends, sisters and other relatives reminisced about their experiences with Ricky. Mommy Racqz expressed how much she still loved him in spite of the sad past between them. Carl recalled a time of meeting a man who said to him how much he has grown, not knowing it was his father. Then it was Charice’s turn. Charice completely broke down, and cried like a little child, almost fainted and had to be consoled before she could even utter a word about her Dad. And between sobs, reached out to whatever little memories she could recall – how her father wanted her to be a soldier. She expressed how much she loved and missed him, and longed for the time they could have had together had she learned earlier the sad state her father was living in. Charice even mentioned a premonition while in Jakarta of seeing a security guard smile who looked like her father, just prior to hearing about his death.
Video Uploaded by KamoteChannel
The funeral procession started a little past 2:00 pm from Muntinlupa City to Cabuyao Memorial Park with a long convoy which included 5 full sized buses. The convoy created traffic and inched along the old national highway with hundreds of people lined up along the way hoping to catch a glimpse of Charice. It took a little over 2 hours to reach the cemetery which was so packed with people that it was very difficult to get near the burial site. I stood behind Carl trying to console him while Beda and Aki were profusely fanning Charice and Racquel. White roses were handed to family members for their last respect to Ricky. As the coffin was being interred, Charice broke down again. She sat almost in stupor as the tomb was being sealed. It was a heart-rending sight to watch our princess, so bubbly and lively on stage now crying like a little child grieving for a tremendous loss.
As her SUV backed in to fetch the family, a big crowd trying to catch a glimpse of Charice formed blocking the exit. Security guards had to form a chain to create a path for the family. A bunch of Chasters voluntarily followed suit and joined hand-in-hand to form a secondary chain in support of security with Beda barking commands like a little general for the crowd to back off. The crowd obeyed as Charice and family hurriedly walked into the vehicle and drove away as the crowd started to disperse.
As our bus sped away along South Luzon Expressway, I cannot help but think of the events that transpired the past few days. That we have now witnessed the other Charice – the typical teenager, the little child that’s still in her, mingling with her roots, unmindful of the pinnacle where she stands as a star of the entertainment world – the girl with the beautiful shoes still planted firmly on the ground.
After all the hugs and kisses as we bid goodbye to go our separate ways, I cannot help but think that the love for Charice by the Chaster Family has now morphed from DEDICATION to FAITHFUL AND PROFOUND DEVOTION for the welfare of OUR PRINCESS.
MANILA – Charicemania and the whole family of Chasters worldwide offer our deepest condolences to Mommy Raquel and to Charice and her brother, Carl Ceiven, for the loss of their father, Ricky Pempengco. We regret to hear the sad news of his untimely passing at the age of 40 years old.
Several Philippine news sources have reported the death which occurred Monday evening in Charice’s home town of San Pedro, Laguna, south of Manila. There have also been reports in American news as well – cbsnews.com and newsday.com – and other media around the world as the AP news release spreads under various headlines reading ” ‘Glee’ singer Charice’s dad killed in Philippines.”
Charice tweeted that she would be unable to appear with David Foster & Friends in the Singapore leg of the concert tour, November 3rd, due to her swift return home.
Twitter.com/OfficialCharice
“I am very sorry to all my fans from Singapore. I am not going to be there to be part of David Foster and Friends concert. I have to go back to the Philippines as soon as possible to be with my family. I hope you all understand. I love you all and I will see you next year.”
Charice also released the following statement on her official blog via her official website:
“I want to thank my fans from around the world for their support and love at this very difficult time for my family and I. We are all very sad about this terrible tragedy.”
Chasters everywhere offer their full support, love, prayers, and comfort to Charice & family during this time of bereavement. We would like to encourage Chasters to practice sensitivity and forgiveness and dignity as Charice has shown.
Let us all respect Charice’s privacy and may her father rest in peace.
I wouldn’t let this opportunity pass this year… so I sent in my email address and waited for confirmation that I was included in the 130+ Chasters for the Pre-concert Gathering when CM started doing the sign-up and glad enough when I saw my name included. But the gathering and the concert itself would only be icing on the cake as I already had the unique opportunity of being with some Chasters the previous days.
Somehow I found out that DeeJay Drake, Jonbudz and a lot more other Chasters were in town for the DFF in Manila concert. Nege was texting that they had cooked up a birthday party for Jonbudz at Metrowalk’s Club Phi the Monday before the concert, and plans for the pre-concert meet at Max’s Restaurant at Gateway Araneta seemed to be gaining momentum. My excitement for the DFF was double for sure as I had missed out on the previous year’s concert because I had to choose between that and a weekend retreat that I needed to attend. Anyway, I decided to whip up an evening for some of them and asked Narita to kindly extend the invite. So Saturday saw Nege, A.b. Bonita, Kram, Jonbudz, Narita, and Kit having dinner with me at the Bagoong Club. After dinner, I brought the group to My Brother’s Mustache for some quiet entertainment. Here, Java and Tintol caught up with us… and then another move to a Starbucks outlet nearby. DeeJay Drake couldn’t join us since he was under the weather, even as Bluemax, Rodbelt, Isaak and others also couldn’t make it because it was such short notice. Sometime during dinner, Narita asked me. “So Henry, what’s the occasion?” My answer… “I just felt like spending time with you guys… with family!”
With Rodbelt sharing his wonderful stories about the NAIA welcome, the Pre-Concert Gathering and the concert itself, I’ve decided that I would share here what I felt makes the Chaster family unique.
Nege gave me quite a genuine and warm hug when I picked them up for dinner last Saturday, much like the hugs I would receive from Jonbudz, Ab Bonita, and most of the Chasters I would finally meet at Jonbudz birthday party and at the Pre-Concert Gathering. Finally putting faces to the names I’ve always known by heart or names to the faces that I always see in Chasters news couldn’t stop my smile and glee from showing the happiness I felt. This indescribable feeling all started during my first encounter with Chasters in the SMX concert of Charice… I remember the late Uno being the first person to greet me and welcome me to the group, and me latching on to Narita much like a security blanket because I still did not know how to act within the group… until you just felt that everyone’s devotion and love for Charice made perfect sense that you would just feel the same for all those who felt the same for Charice.
The unique perspective I have from being a photographer also helped that I notice more than what others do. During the PICC Valentine’s concert of Charice, I couldn’t help but feel and empathize with all the fans who stayed after the concert for the meet and greet. I remember clear as day the expression of Nege’s face when while singing “The Climb” as part of the Meet & Greet program, Charice would come out and sing alongside her. I can’t forget the surprised look of Nege and the cheering she received from the rest of the fans who were there… everyone just seemed to share in Nege’s joy for this dream come true. The magnanimity of Charice’s heart for her fans would bear itself out every chance there is and this was again proven in this last concert when she came out to join Kimmie as she sang “Because You Loved Me”. But the feeling I had as a fan seeing Nege or Kimmie live out their dreams on separate occasions was the same feeling that I shared with the Chaster family. I could almost sense at those very moment that everyone was very happy for both these Chasters.
The pre-concert gathering was something else… and one that I would always remember. I hadn’t even given my name at the registration table and yet I was met with smiles and such warm hugs… as if we’ve known each other all our lives. And once I’ve read the names on their tags would clear memories of each Chaster snap clear in my mind. I’d go, “oh, you’re the one who did this… or I remember that…” Here was a gathering of people from all walks of life, from all over the planet… and yet there was singularity in purpose, a common love that clearly bound each one to the other. I finally met people whose names I’ve only read, but now there were faces to go along with it. Rodbelt, Bluemax, Wower, Dtox, Gunrunner, Tsuki… and a lot of others that Rodbelt had already mentioned in his article… and there were a lot of stories that were shared. I have learned to appreciate this extended family that I now have. I admire the inexhaustible energy of those who organized the different meet-ups, or those who took Sunday off just to buy the glow sticks that they distributed to all the concert audience, to Kenji who set up the photo-booth and let everyone have their photos taken, to Tita Glo and Carl10 who emceed with gusto. More than that, I was simply amazed that Chasters from all over the world… US. Canada, Japan, Singapore, Middle-East, Guam… as well as from all over the Philippines came just for this gathering and the concert.
Video uploaded by ChasterBlueMax
Yes, there is a unique sense of belonging when you are part of the Chaster family… one that mirrors much of what Charice brings to this world of ours. Chasters share her humble and respectful nature… and only too well was this demonstrated the way the younger Chasters deferred to Rodbelt, Bluemax, Tita Glo, Wower, Prof Jay, Dtox and some more… myself included… and in turn, we oldies could only look at the young Chasters as we would our own children. Charice has shown how generous and loving she could be, with all the charities that she lends her name to. This wonderful trait again shown by the generous Chasters who were only too willing to help out the others through sponsored tickets to the concert, or in the case of that family whom Tintol introduced to us as being beneficiaries of a hairlip operation as well as their being brought in to watch their idol, our very own Charice… and patron tickets at that! The commendable thing is that not one of these benefactors wanted their names known or announced. Yes, Chaster Claus was there, as was Lantao Island but nary a peep from them… the happiness, joy and dreams come true of the many Chasters who have benefitted from their generosity being the only reward that satisfied their hearts.
The enthusiastic response of those who gave their ovations (whether standing or seated) to those who presented their song numbers: Cutie Singer, Isaak, Sofia, Jonbudz and the quartet of Artemis, Nege, Dino Sour, and Aki demonstrated only too well what Chasters are all about… In this family, one is not judged by superficial things in life… attire, make-up, or even talent (which I have to say was not at all lacking from those I mentioned above)… but rather for what each one’s heart shows and proudly announces to everyone willing to listen… that we all love Charice! no matter what!
In this family, there is no thumbs down… we accept each and every Chaster for what he or she is. We do not have shallow beliefs of what Charice should be, should have done, have become or must be. We only know too well that she has changed most of our lives for the better and has shown that we should not stop believing that good things happen to those who believe; that good begets good; and that our love will always be there not only for Charice but for everyone who belongs to this unique Chaster family.
As you may all be aware, parts of Thailand has been struggling with serious flooding for weeks and it is with our deepest sympathy that Bangkok is now seriously bracing to cope up with the current flood situation. Thai Chasters are deeply saddened by the crisis it has brought and may still bring in the coming days. Due to the worsening situation, David Foster and Friends has to be canceled to ensure both the performers’ and the fans’ safety. Read the full story
It has been many years since I put in writing the thoughts circling in my mind when I was an editor of the high school paper and staff of the varsitarian in my beloved alma mater. I’m getting old but my mind is very clear about where my journey as a Chaster started and where it will end.
It all began over a year ago when I kept hearing my women staff talk about someone called Charice Pempengco. “Did you see her sing in Oprah and Ellen?” “Wasn’t she great in her duet with Celine Dion?” Such comments led me to search You tube, eventually lurk at Charicemania.com and feel my heartbeat quicken every time I discover a new song of hers. Yes, I have cried many times. A reaction that prompted me to contact my son, a psychologist, to make sure that I wasn’t losing my mind considering my age. He said that I’m living my life through her. That made me realize that my experience of having been raised by a single mother and fearing of being lost without her, connected me to Charice. The fact that our history are alike triggered my strong emotions. I was sane indeed!!
It was then followed by my first trip to Las Vegas to watch the October 2010 David Foster & Friends concert. The concert finished at 12 midnight and she was scheduled to leave for Tokyo the next morning to start the asian tour. I was lucky that I was chosen for the Meet and Greet. As a typical lurker, I stood behind and watched the line dwindled. I saw that Marc Johnson was prodding her to hurry but I guess, she wanted to see everybody. I was grateful for that since I was third to last in line. It was already 1 am when we finished. She really love her fans!!!
I wasn’t content on just going to Vegas and so, I went to Manila to see her with my staff. There, I accidentally met a young lady that gave me a glow stick and when I sent an email to invite her to be part of the Tokyo Chaster Crew, I did not know her name then and actually thought she was a HE. Charice blew me away that night and I can’t believe that there was no backtrack or lip synching. I was feeling so elated that night. I then realized that it was the kind of feeling and fun that is better shared with others. I immediately invited another Chaster to join us next in Tokyo. She said that I should think about it and assured me that she won’t feel bad even if I develop any second thoughts. My original crew of two grew enough to be counted with both hands. I know that my wife will kill me if she finds out what I have done and continue to do so, which is why I created a separate email account to provide stealth for my Chaster activities.
A full year passed, Tokyo went by like a breeze, and much of those experiences have been written by scribes of Charicemania. What I hope will be accomplished is that we discover the Chaster Clauses within our hearts so that everybody can have a chance to celebrate Charice. I am but a clone of the different Clauses before me, you know who you are. A Chaster writer named LAfan was the one who brought it to life. Thanks to a developing tradition, a Chaster way, that there is now a spirit we call Chaster Clause.
The Las Vegas Chaster Crew has come and gone yet nobody noticed their presence until after the concert. I thank them for keeping their pledge of not talking about the event, me or even giving a hint about my true identity. I believe that Charice should remain center stage and I, together with the other Chasters, form but a supporting cast. To see her succeed is all that matters because now, talent is not enough to guarantee a spot at the top. Only 1% make it and the rest become but a passing fancy. It is tough but she cannot be faulted for not working hard enough. As young as she is, she needs to pace herself for the long haul, take a break when she can, and be at full force when showtime comes. We need to cater to her needs. I’m glad that we did not have a meet and greet in Las Vegas this year because I knew she would be exhausted from her whirlwind Singapore, Qatar and Vegas performances. Now, Manila is fast approaching and the excitement is building up.
To discover the Chaster Clause in each and every one of us is far more rewarding than knowing the person behind the character. My wish is to see Charice be around for a long time but we all know that the career of an artist is like a mountain: first is a climb, then a peak, followed by a plateau, and lastly, an unpredictable slow or fast walk towards the sunset. My focus is to make it possible for many Chasters to have a chance to see, touch and hear the object of their dreams. I had my moment when I hugged her and told her I love her in Tokyo. An experience I will always cherish. Though I will keep a low profile, I will always be behind Charice and our Chaster family.
After a long career, I would like to imagine that when the music stops and Charice settles down that she’ll have more time to herself. Hopefully, when people begin to step off the bandwagon, she will have the time to sit and reminisce of the past with me over a strong cup of coffee. I consider that the end of my journey that I hope can happen before my expiration date. Life has no guarantees and so I live life everyday, give thanks and say a prayer.
LABYO ALL, CHASTERS!!!!
There’s always the risk of somebody disagreeing with us and I won’t be surprise especially from people who doubt my good intentions. I have been consistent in my actions, so I can hold my ground. If this gives pause to people to release the resident goodness in their hearts, then the purpose of my article has been serve. That is the road to happiness.
Thank You Message:
“The editorial board prior to publishing the article asked me if I was willing to take flying arrows from doubting Thomases. I have long suspected that we are a different fan club because as ABonita said earlier “we care for each other”. Your comments has moved me and the truth be told that we are indeed one family. I did not imagine that cupid arrows will be raining down instead in the comment section.”
“The primitive parts of our brain where our instincts reside is wired for self preservation. That is why our first inclination during a famine is to fight over food rather than give it to the weakest or spread it out. It takes the larger, developing parts of our brain nurtured by prior experiences of self denial or delayed gratification for our sake by caring adults especially a mother that we gain the capacity to override those negative instincts.”
“The credit belongs to all past, present and future Clauses in our community willing to set the bar. Nothing is too big or too small to make a difference. For Charice and the world, We shall carry on!”
Charice was in Japan for less than a week with a schedule jampacked with appearances and interviews promoting her second album “Infinity”. Her efforts have paid off because as of this writing, Infinity has topped Japan iTunes’ pop chart and is at number 2 on the overall Japan iTunes chart! We give you two of her magazine interviews, which have helped spread the word about our dear Charice. Read the full story
Translated short interview from the “Infinity” Booklet Added!
Certified Chasters all over the world definitely want to grab a copy of Charice’s “Infinity” Album but as we all know, the album is available only in Japan. The rest of the world, just have to wait. Luckily we could order and below are the links, so get your credit cards ready and pre-order! Read the full story
It was a crisp early Thursday morning, the 29th of September 2011, when I left YYZ (Pearson Toronto Intl Airport) to fly to Las Vegas not only to watch Charice sing at the David Foster and Friends Concert; but to meet with other chasters. I arrived at the McCarran Airport (LAS) at 11AM to hot dry weather towering the 90’s. I almost fainted while waiting for a shuttle to take me to the ORLEANS Hotel Read the full story
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