MANILA, Philippines — Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez was hailed as Woman of the Year by Billboard Philippines.
In her acceptance speech, Regine paid tribute to her late father, Gerry, whom she called her mentor and adviser.
"This industry has changed my life in so many wonderful ways. I didn't know that my father's dream was to travel the world," she said.
"And natulungan ko yung tatay ko na matupad yung pangarap niya because I sang. And we traveled the world together, because I was singing.
"Marami pong nagawa ang industriyang ito sa buhay ko that's why I'll forever gonna be grateful to the industry."
Regine looks back on her journey
Regine continued: "Yung story ko kasi, 5 years old ako, sumali ako ng singing contest. Ako lang po yung bata doon.
"Tapos narinig ko yung palakpakan ng mga tao, nag-decide ako at a tender age of 5 years old, nag-decide ako na this is what I want to do. 'Cause I like the sound of palakpakan, and 40 years later here I am."
Regine also said she is grateful to the Lord because, during her four decades in showbiz, she had the chance to meet her idols, including her "love of her life," Ogie Alcasid.
Message to younger artists
"Sa industriyang ito, hindi pwedeng maliit ka lang mangarap. Dapat malaki kang mangarap. Dapat ready ka na matupad yung pangarap mo. Dream big. Lakihan mo, dapat mas malaki sa yo yung pangarap mo.
"Work hard. And be ready, 'cause one day it will be your time. You guys are the future of OPM, and me being here, being honored as 'Woman of the Year.'
"I am so proud of all of you. 'Cause you guys will continue what Lolita (Carbon) has started and the artists before me have started.
"To my saviour Jesus Christ, I am forever yours."
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