JOSE MARI Chan may be closely associated with the “ber” months and the Christmas season in the Philippines, but the veteran singer said he doesn’t have an “off-season” because he also does other work outside of performing.
Chan talked about his life outside the Christmas season during his recent guest appearance on Melai Cantiveros’ vodcast “Kuan on One.”
Cantiveros noted how busy Chan becomes from September to December, when his Christmas songs once again become a fixture on Filipino playlists and television programs.
“I’m happy to do it. Masaya ako na kantahin ang Christmas songs ko at maghatid ng saya sa mga tao,” Chan said.
When Cantiveros asked if he gets a break from work from January to August, Chan said he remains busy with his other professional commitments.
“No. I have a daily job. I work for a sugar company. It’s a sugar central in Negros,” he said.
Aside from his work, the 81-year-old singer also makes an effort to maintain his health through his diet-and-exercise routine.
“I take care of my diet. Hindi na ako kumakain ng baboy at baka. I exercise every morning. Forty-five minutes. Walking,” Chan said.
Chan noted that staying healthy is important not only for his own well-being but also for the people he wants to spend more time with.
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“It’s important for your health. Nobody lives forever. But you try to protect and preserve your health for your children and grandchildren,” he said.
Chan recently marked the start of the “ber” months with an appearance on GMA’s “Unang Hirit” on Sept. 1, where he performed his Christmas classic “Christmas in Our Hearts.”
The veteran singer also used the appearance to call on Filipinos who have enough resources to help those affected by flooding across the country.
“God has blessed us with enough property and wealth. We should help those who are in need. There are so many brother and sister Filipinos out there who need help,” he said. “We should always reach out and help them.”
Chan has long been dubbed the “Father of Philippine Christmas music,” with songs such as “Christmas in Our Hearts” and “A Perfect Christmas” becoming perennial holiday staples.
He is also known for other enduring hits including “Beautiful Girl” and “Please Be Careful with My Heart.” (Jessica Ann Evangelista © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
