About

The Classic Diva Raki Vega that we later went on following on national television had a budding singing career in Cebu. She was already a darling of our local music scene as Rochelle---guesting here and there and even staging solo concerts---before foraying into ABS-CBN's Born Diva reality-talent singing competition in Manila and winning as the grand champion. As both a fan watching and a writer covering, I remember being present at one held at Ayala Cinema One, and boy, was I mesmerized by her voice.

But what I admire most about Raki is her placid disposition. She's never loud and proud with her applauded name under her belt. Even after coming home to Cebu with the most coveted Born Diva trophy and up to now that she's a principal vocalist and a mainstage performer at Hong Kong Disneyland, she's still the same down-to-earth Rochelle Vega whom we adored and supported while in Cebu.

In fact, Raki's first lines in her reply to my message caught me feeling humbled. "Hi, Ariel. Thank you for keeping in touch with me . . . "

That was totally unexpected of a celebrity writing back to someone on the other end of the phone. But I wasn't the least bit surprised---because that's what she really is and has always been known for: sweet and humble.

All that can be attributed to her being an active part of a church choir with which she grew up singing liturgical music while finding her place in the sun. And that makes her a perfect inspiration to all who have heard her singing songs of hope and faith like "We Will Rise Again," "Today," and so many more.

I can't help reminiscing on the night she had a solo concert in my hometown and on her giving an inspirational message as well as singing some of those inspirational songs to the Malabuyocanon youths.

"I was so happy to be able to visit Malabuyoc then. It was such a memorable concert for me because of how warmly I was welcomed by you all. Thank you," Raki recalls, saying how great it is to reminisce on the beautiful past.

Raki Vega is based in Hong Kong for ten years now. Prior to the reopening of Hong Kong Disneyland on June 18, 2020, her last performance there was on January 26.

"We're very fortunate that our company has the capacity to take care of the cast members during these trying times. So we've been back to work since May," the Cebuana Disney star says.

But how does our beloved Philippine pride stay safe and sound in a foreign country?

Rochelle Raki Vega-Siu says, "My role as a wife and mom has been reinforced and strengthened. My husband, Jon, and I are both hands on in raising our three-year-old daughter, Julia, and we're very happy with the fruits of our initial labor. I got to appreciate and enjoy being more domesticated during the quarantine period. Our daily routine is quite normal. The fact that I was just at home made me bond and really spend quality time with my family."