Philippine star, Ogie Alcasid, a 12-year music veteran, tells jokes, acts, and sings for his supper and the shy lad from Kunidirana career motors on stronger than ever. A trio of hit singles: "Nandito Ako," "Sa Kanya," and "Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang" juiced his career. Knowing how fickle the public can be, Alcasid turned to television using his innate flair for comedy to team with Janno Gibbs and build an impressive resume. Then came films where he played roles as genies and dwarfs; ever exploring, the multi-talented artist has even delved into stage work via musicals. Everything seems to work for Alcasid, who married an Australian beauty queen; the couple has a little girl, but even matrimony to a goddess didn't slow Alcasid. Leaving OctoArts Records for MCA/Universal, his album Then and Now is acclaimed as the best of his career. It features seven Alcasid originals along with seven classic love songs, including an update of "I've Never Been to Me," a hit for Charlene. It's his first album in two years; the last, All the Best, a pretentious effort, included an experimental rap that didn't go over well with his fans. He's been nominated for many MTV Awards in his country and participates in celebrity golf outings like the Omega Cup Invitational Opening with the country's top stars. ~ Andrew Hamilton