Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

The upcoming Reflections 20 to be held on Nov. 22 is very meaningful for me because it will sum up all the years I’ve spearheaded this major FilAm production.

Maraming hindi makapaniwala that this is going to be the last and final bow. Believe me, it is. Reflections has served me up with a lot of fond memories. Through this yearly event I’ve encountered many new people and most of them I’ve developed deep admiration for as well as forged close friendships with.

All these individuals are so varied and unique in their own ways and they will forever stay in my Reflections memory.

One of them is this year’s Man of the Year, Mr. Michael R. Cucueco. For many years, committee members within Reflections have been nominating Mike for this premier honor but somehow, the timing was never right. This year, I’m so happy that finally Mike has accepted the recognition. Being Man of the Year is a lead role of sorts given to an upstanding member of our community who has achieved so much for himself and beyond just for himself. I met Mike for lunch recently and I was struck by how humble he is, despite his reputation for being a high-power real estate developer. Over lunch, I learned that one of his deepest passions is to help our community na magkasama-sama, which is consistent with the goal of Reflections.

Mike is so busy with his work commitments but he never fails to dedicate time to worthy regional projects such as the Pampanga Day Commission. During the Oct. 15 press conference of Reflections 20, I witnessed his unconditional generosity. When the producers and film director of the acclaimed Pinoy movie Ploning asked for our kababayans’ support in relation to the movie’s Oscar bid, without hesitation Mike volunteered to host a screening for Ploning possibly at The Wiltern.

I also noticed that despite being a structured leader, Mike can be laid back as well. Amid all the success, wala kang makikitang pagmamalaki sa kanya. He’s just low-key and casual; very easy to talk to. He confided in passing that he would someday love to retire in the Philippines. Whenever he goes back home, he always feels so welcome there. He also speaks so highly about the natural resources of our country and its many untapped potentials. Doon ko naramamdaman ang kanyang pagkamakabayan.

Mike, you’re not just the Man of the Year but a man for all seasons. It’s a blessing knowing you!

Another extraordinary person receiving Reflections 20 honors is Ms. Jackie Regala, Concert Producer of the Year.

I’ve known her for a long time and I know that she’s bound to be one of the top ranking concert producers here in our community. Her clever ideas and savvy marketing makes her one of the best in her field. Jackie, up to now, with her kolehiyala manner, is a delight to everyone.

Whether producing a concert or hosting an event, she makes sure that everybody is satisfied and she gets rave reviews for production values and entertainment quality.