Chavit’s philosophy in life

Carlo J. Caparas and Donna Villa must be the most influential pair in show business. The director-producer tandem behind Golden Lions Films is known to have relentlessly approached and convinced personalities whose life stories they wanted to film. From Maggie de la Riva to Cory Quirino, the couple is known to hunt their subjects down armed with deadly charm and sweet persistence.

Their latest "victim"? Governor Luis "Chavit" Singson. "Kinulit talaga nila ako!" reveals Chavit with a smile. "They called me and sent me feelers lots of times. A lot of producers have actually approached me, complete with their own script and casting, but I said no to all of them. But when Carlo and Donna presented to me their treatment, I was convinced and I gave them my consent."

"This will be our biggest movie to date," says Donna. "Imagine, we have Cesar (Montano who plays the title role), Eddie Garcia, Dina Bonnevie, Joel Torre, Tirso Cruz III and a whole lot more in one movie."

"I’m really flattered that they have spent so much time and effort to make my life story into a movie," continues Chavit. "A lot of questions will finally be answered."

To ensure that everything presented in the movie will be factual, Chavit will act as the film’s consultant. He has actively participated in developing the script. "Para kasing pelikula naman talaga ang buhay ko eh! Ha ha!"

According to Chavit, the film will have everything – from action to drama, even romance. "That’s how colorful my life is. That’s why people continue to be fascinated with the story of my life. Everytime people see me, they always have a question to ask. . . everything from the most trivial to the most controversial!"

And controversy indeed is what Chavit is all about. He was the whistleblower in Erap’s alleged involvement in jueteng and illegal gambling and was the star witness in the landmark impeachment trial.

"That was the most uncertain time of my life," Chavit reveals. "I didn’t know if I would survive it. Pumasok na talaga sa utak ko that I might die but I always thought that at least I’ve done something good."

And doing good is Chavit’s philosophy in life. "Even before I entered politics, people would come to me for help. And when I help, I don’t expect anything in return. Hindi ako naghahanap ng reward o kapalit. That is my philosophy."

Another thing Chavit believes in is the notion that life is too short. "You always have to make the most out of everything. Seize every opportunity."

Will he "seize the opportunity" to run for governor again? "I have remote plans. Nothing final yet. If people call for it, then I might just run again. Who knows?" he replies.

Well, if Chavit doesn’t run again, he says he’s got his hands busy with his work, family and believe it or not, his pets. And when we talk about pets, we’re not talking about your typical cats and dogs. We’re talking about Shetland Ponies (he’s got nine of them) and Bengal tigers. "I’ve got four tigers and I have one favorite. Her name is Kiara whom I’ve had since she was a cub. Ako mismo ang nagpapakain sa kanya. Paborito niyang pagkain ay chicken."

Well, Chavit Singson is anything but typical. And you’ll get to know more about him in the movie Luis Chavit Singson – Bloodson of Ilocos.

Rent in Concert

Atlantis Productions recently staged Rent in Concert at Onstage. Everyone raved how wonderful the cast sounded. Calvin Millado reprised his role as Roger while Amparo Sietereales played her role of Mimi brilliantly. JM Rodriguez as Mark was dazzling while Anna Fegi as Maureen was simply enthralling. Bituin Escalante as Joanne was in her top form while Michael de Mesa as Collins was great. Carlo Ledesma as Benny was a treat, while Nyoy Volante as Angel was a revelation. The ensemble, composed of ManMan Angsico, Beatrice Gomez, Lana Jalosjos, Ariel Reonal, Glory Sicam, Boyd Tinio and Joel Trinidad was magnificent. Rachel Alejandro joined in the fun at concert’s end.

The venue was filled to the rafters and everyone was asking the director, Bobby Garcia to have the concert extended so that more people can watch it.

Anyway, Bobby will soon have his hands full as Atlantis announced plans to stage the Tony award-winning musical Urinetown on September and West Side Story.