Celebrations bring more joy when shared with people who make every living moment worth it. For GMA Artist Center stars Jake Vargas and Barbie Forteza, tracing their roots and giving thanks make another year a lot more meaningful.
Jake Vargas chose his most loyal fans to share his birthday with. He took them to Puradak Chicken in Quezon City to sing along in a karaoke party on July 12. It involved a lot of catching up, and they looked back on their most precious moments through the years.
Adding to the fun was the surprise visit by fellow GMA Artist Center star Inah de Belen, who delivered a sweet message for Jake. “Always take care of your health. At you know na I’m always here for you. Ilang beses ko na ‘to sinabi sa kanya, huwag mong kakalimutan ‘yung mga tao na nandiyan para sa ‘yo from the very beginning.”
As the day came to a close, some of Jake’s supporters from different fan clubs dedicated a performance for him and the Kapuso heartthrob warmly expressed his gratitude.
“Hindi ko kayo kayang kalimutan, you’ve always been there for me. Kaya nandito lang din ako para sa inyo. Maraming salamat.”
Meanwhile, Barbie Forteza went to Laguna and celebrated her birthday at her grade school alma mater, Pagkakaisa Elementary School.
On choosing the school, she said it has always been her wish to go back for a visit and was glad that GMA Artist Center helped her make it possible. “Last year ko pa sana ito gagawin, pero nag-ipon muna ako para rin may maitulong ako sa kanila,” shares the Kapuso star.
Her elementary days remain to be her fondest childhood memory and she felt flattered when the school welcomed her with a drum and lyre ensemble. “Hindi nagbago yung mga tao dito, kaya ang sarap balik-balikan. Dito ako lumaki, at ito ang favorite childhood memory ko.”
Recalling her early days in school, she vividly remembers how one room can cram 70 students per class. This inspired her to donate electric fans to help students feel more relaxed in school.
Barbie’s smile got a little contagious as she ended the day by gathering the kids to give them gifts. She quips, “If this can make them treasure their elementary days kagaya ng pag-treasure ko, achievement sa akin ‘yun.”