Nagmamahal, Joey Lina

MANILA, Philippines - Some may wonder why does former Sen. Joey Lina sing? The question becomes more relevant with the launch of his first CD titled Nagmamahal, Joey Lina.

“I used to sing for fun and to accommodate requests of friends and constituents,” shares Lina, a lawyer and president of Manila Hotel.

Lina discovered his knack for singing during his stint as president of the said hotel. Although he was a member of the Glee Club at the University of Santo Tomas, it was short-lived because membership required an additional expense on his part. Years after, with all his credentials and accomplishments, the organizer of Aliw Awards, Beth Tagle frequently requested him to be a presenter. This role, however, required him to stay so late at night since the awarding part was always in the end. So he would always ask Ms. Tagle to not make him present an award anymore. He said that he would rather sing. Finally, after three Aliw Awards, he was made to sing. It paved the way for him, together with Gen. Angelo Reyes and Secretary Bayani Fernando, to organize and perform in fund-raising concerts, which were mostly held at the Fiesta Pavilion of Manila Hotel. Since then, until now, the running joke is that Lina is frequently asked to be part of the package deal for entertainment during important occasions and celebrations.

“Manila Hotel was an instrument for me to recognize my gift of singing could be a great source to make a difference and create a positive change in people’s lives. I do not consider myself a professional entertainer. I sing to thank God who has given me the ability and the joy to sing. I sing for a cause, for my various advocacies. It paved the way for the realization of my first inspirational CD lite, which will benefit Bayanihang Pilipino,” says Lina.

Bayanihang Pilipino is a non-governmental organization, which advocates values formation, spiritual growth, financial literacy, and livelihood education. It has formed Bayanihan Centers (BC) with coordinators and facilitators who oversee the development of systems and policies on savings and livelihood undertakings. Values education is given during weekly meetings with emphasis on relationship-building, increase of trust and confidence, and financial stewardship. On savings mobilization, BC members are encouraged to pledge equal amounts on a regular basis wherein savings are pooled in a group bank account. Members may apply for loan after six months for income-generating activities. Regular coaching and monitoring sessions are held during weekly meetings to monitor performance. The programs of Bayanihang Pilipino may be integrated with other programs through the BCs for a wider scope of development.

Classical and contemporary songs encompass the CD lite, which will move everyone. It is a collection of seven songs representing the former senator’s dreams and aspirations for God and country. The cuts are mostly covers of Lina’s favorite uplifting songs. There are also OPM tunes.