What keeps Christian smiling

A decade of serenading the hearts of Filipinos has swiftly passed for Christian Bautista. He began his singing career in a contest aired on TV way back 2003. Christian Joseph Morata Bautista became widely known across Asia as Christian Bautista. He is today’s Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, a model, a host, an actor and he is not stopping just as yet. 

The 31-year-old balladeer continues to expand his wings and explore more things to improve and hone his God-given talents. He has tried doing things he has never done before, and some people may criticize him for that. But for him, you only live once and that is exactly the reason why he lives his life to the fullest.

After 10 years of twists and turns, ups and downs, Christian is definitely here to stay.

On a personal note, his parents, Ebert and Jo, were co-workers in government in the early ’80s.

How is your stay with GMA so far?

“So far, my stay with GMA has been very eventful! I’m happy that I got to do the rounds to guest in the special shows of GMA and GMA News TV. I am glad that I am able to be part of Eat, Bulaga! during Saturdays. I’m happy that I was able to be part of Party Pilipinas, yet sad that it ended already. But I’m excited for the new role that I’m doing for the new soap opera offering of GMA, With A Smile.”  

Are there any big adjustments that you made ever since you became a Kapuso?

“Yes, there were adjustments that I needed to do since my move to GMA. I had to fill the roles and the tasks that I am assigned to do. I’m given a responsibility that I am focused to achieve and excited to supplement that with my music through Universal Records, and my musical theater project Cinderella with Resorts World as Prince Charming this year.” 

One of your projects in GMA is the soap With A Smile. What can you say now that you are given a chance to act once again?

“I’m thankful and excited for this chance that was given to me. The fans have been waiting to see me act again on TV. I’m also happy that I get to do this project, which gives a positive influence and outlook for its viewers.”

 Are you more comfortable in doing romantic-comedy soaps? 

“Right now, yes. I believe this role is going to be fun to play with.”

 What can you say about your character? Is it very different from the real-life Christian Bautista? What did you find in your character in With A Smile that you could relate to?

“There are similarities and differences with my character that I’m portraying. I could relate to my character’s headstrong attitude when he wants something done.”

 How are you preparing for the soap?

“We worked with Sir Leo Martinez to (form) our characters into shape. I’m transforming some habits and nuances to adapt to the new role. And most of all, I’m having fun.”

What can you say about your co-stars in With A Smile, Andrea Torres and Mikael Daez? Have you met them already?

“Yes, these two are pros. They are very easy to connect with. I feel comfortable and challenged to work with them.”

What other side of Christian Bautista that you want to show to your fans and supporters worldwide, especially in Asia?

“I want them to see me act again in a different light. I want them to see the depth of this new side of acting that I’m gonna portray.”

Are there any other things (aside from singing, modeling, hosting and acting) that you want to do?

“Wherever the road takes me, if my heart directs me and God guides me, I’d love to promote a song or album in America or Europe one day.” 

You have said in an interview that one of the reasons why you decided to go to GMA is Eat, Bulaga’s connection in Indonesia. You have mentioned that you have charity endeavors there, would you like to share with us what these are?

“I’m a part of World Vision Philippines and Indonesia. If my career inspires others to help these organizations then that would be it.”

What can you say that your career in Indonesia is getting stronger?

“It’s definitely a big part of me. I want to explore different avenues in which where I can maximize my career there.”

  Are there any future plans for your career in Indonesia?

“Right now, I’m promoting my First Class album. I’m excited to release a new one also.”

Are there any plans of releasing a new album?

“Yes. It is in line with our new soap With A Smile.”

What makes you smile?

“Love. Joy. Peace.”

 How do make your fans, friends and family smile?

“By simply showing them how important and valued they are to me.”

 What do you do to survive all the pressures that you encounter? When things don’t seem to go your way, how do you manage to smile and be happy? 

“I pray and I let God deal with the issues.”

 What’s your inspiration now?

“My inspiration now is to be a good person to everyone around me.”