For Aljur, it's not sayang na sayang

MANILA, Philippines - Aljur Abrenica was nursing a throat infection when he showed up for the launch of his self-titled album. Had he followed doctor’s orders, Aljur shouldn’t have sung a single song for press people that steamy afternoon. He shouldn’t have granted lengthy interviews because his doctors, again, warned him against it.

But Aljur can’t help but break the rules.

“My big break has finally come,” he explains the adrenalin rush. “Now’s my chance to show my talent and the reason why where I am now.”

Thanks to the album, Aljur has come full circle. He is also the new MYX Celebrity VJ (he appears in Mellow MYX from May 16 to 22 and will read all requests in My MYX on May 23 to 29).

He is, after all, a chip off the old block. Aljur’s dad supported the family by touring with his band.

“When I learned I was about to sign a contract with Sony Music and GMA Records for the album, I broke the good news to my dad,” recalls Aljur. The giant labels put together a CD of original songs and remakes for their new artist. It tapped seasoned and upcoming songwriters like Nino Regalado, Alwyn Cruz, Jude Gitamanondoc, Panji, Melvin Morallos, Jonathan Ong and Michael V.

Thus, not even a previous throat infection for which he went into rehab, can stop Aljur from singing one of the tracks, of which Sayang na Sayang is his favorite.

Why single out this track about lost chances and longing for an old love?

“I can relate to it,” Aljur replies without batting an eyelash.

Does it have something to do with the coming break-up of his loveteam with perennial partner Kris Bernal? GMA Network decided to pair them off with other partners.

“Perhaps,” he answers cryptically.

Their impending separation Aljur adds, is more of a career move than anything else.

“Kris and I were shocked when we learned we had to part ways,” Aljur admits.

“We’ve been a love team for three years now and I will always care for her like a brother would.”

They’re more than friends, less than lovers. And Kris trusts Aljur’s judgment enough to get his go-signal in entertaining a suitor or not.

“Kris has many suitors,” Aljur relates. “She lets me judge them one by one. No one has passed my standards, though.”

Yes, he does feel a tinge of jealousy. Kris, he says, is his baby and he can’t stand it if someone else will take care of her the way he has been doing all these years.

“I will miss many things we always do,” he says. “She knows I’m just here for her.”

So, don’t let those sad songs in his new CD (e.g. Di Na Ako Aasa Pa, Kailan Kaya and Sayang na Sayang) deceive you.