Kuya Germs: As pure as gold

MANILA, Philippines - Last April 24, the Master Showman German “Kuya Germs” Moreno, along with his galaxy of stars, celebrated his 50 years in show business. To be honest, I’m pretty sure that a typical individual my age would not be aware of who German Moreno is, and why he is known to be the Master Showman.

According to my mom, Kuya Germs is one of the most respected people in the Philippine entertainment industry. Working as a janitor and curtain raiser at the Clover Theater was what gave him his first taste of business. Later on, he worked hard to pursue a profession as a comedian. However, the dawn of his career was when he was given the chance to become the host of GMA Supershow (formerly Germside, then Germspesyal). This was known to be the one of the longest-running Sunday noontime shows in our country’s television history.

Learning that I would be attending the event with my mom, Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, who happened to be one of his many alagas, was delightful. I knew that this would be one exceptionally important night as it would be in honor of someone who worked his way to becoming an inspiration to others, and was an instrument to the success of many of the people he discovered. At the same time, I was excited to have a glimpse of how days in the office were like for mom. Those who started under his wings are: My mom Maricel; my Tita Sharon Cuneta, who started singing at 12 and got the full support of Kuya Germs; Tita Jackie Lou Blanco; Tita Gretchen Barretto, to name a few.

The day before the event, I happened to be with my mom at Tito Rajo Laurel’s office to have my prom dress designed. Instead of having to go around to find dresses for us, Tito Rajo warmly insisted that mom’s stylist Sidney Yap come over to his studio to pick out selections and have us wear his creations instead. Being the only ones at the House of Laurel at that hour gave us the advantage to undress the mannequins and play around with Tito Rajo and Sidney. What an honor to be dressed in such beautiful ensembles!

Arriving at Resorts World and being able to walk the red carpet with mom and my grandmother, actress Imelda Ilanan (yup, three generations!), along with other impeccable artists, was definitely an experience to remember. The event itself consisted of amazing showcase of talent, as if it was a concert of the top artists rolled all into one. Along with the heartwarming messages, the affair has made me highly appreciative of the hard work and perseverance that Kuya Germs has invested in. His achievements are an illustration of how pursuing one’s aspirations has delightful outcomes.

My message for Kuya Germs: Tito Germs, thank you for showing us how passion and perseverance can lead to bountiful results that serve as an inspiration to many. You have helped orchestrate the lives of many by believing in potential and guiding them. You definitely are a father figure to all your alagas including my mother. Mahal na mahal ka po niya. Salamat po sa pag-alaga sa kanya. May God bless you with many more years to come.