Jovit's 'first time'

MANILA, Philippines - Jovit Baldivino doesn’t have to wait long for elusive fame to come. Screaming fans, performances abroad, product endorsements and a comfortable life are signs of enjoying the sweet taste of stardom. Thanks to his powerful voice that people come to love since he joined and won the ABS-CBN talent search Pilipinas Got Talent.

But Jovit knows there’s no reason to be complacent. He is aware the next big thing can come as fast as the ticking of the clock. Thus, he makes it a point to improve his craft not just for himself but for his family back in Batangas.

His loved ones, he adds, inspire him in his every performance. They are the force that pushes him to go onstage and sing with much passion. Jovit wants to give them a life far different from what it’s like before. “Isang kahig, isang tuka kami noon, putikan ang daan namin pag-ulan at yung bahay namin kayang tangayin isang Ondoy pa ang dumating.”

Thus, he saves a part of his earnings for himself and gives the rest to his parents. He also sends his four siblings to school “so they can have a good life in the future.” He also longs to see his parents managing their own business and live in a decent house he plans to buy.

The plan to go back to school is also on the drawing board. “When schedule permits, I want to take up mechanical engineering in college.” 

“You’ll never know, one day when I wake up people may no longer like me and my voice. No one would want to watch me perform,” Jovit talks about his grim thoughts. “That’s why I take all the chances to work and show the best of what I can do. It’s also nice if I can continue and finish college so I can have a fallback. ‘Di natin alam ang pwedeng mangyari, pero ngayon okay naman.”

These days, Jovit’s worries are far from happening. He is just about to do his “first” — a solo concert, titled Faithfully, on Nov. 13, 8 p.m. at the Aliw Theater — that will prove the 17-year-old singer has much more to offer.

“I’m excited and at the same time nervous because this will really put me to a test. I hope and pray that everything will be all right,” Jovit says.

Working closely with Jovit is Nyoy Volante as the show’s musical director. Is there anything he wants to change in Jovit’s performance style?

“With the kind of talent he has, there is nothing more to improve. I will not change the way he sings because that’s what people love to see and hear but definitely we put some twists in the songs to let you see what more Jovit can do,” Nyoy says.

The show’s repertoire also includes unexpected numbers where Jovit will render love songs and OPM classics. A production number with guest Yeng Constantino will further add excitement. Other guests are Sam Milby, Kim Chiu, Melai Cantiveros and Jason Francisco.

Faithfully is produced by MJM Productions.