You’re hosting? Ikaw emcee? A question I’ve heard numerous times since the other year (2023). I would usually respond with a resounding “YES!” A confident reply, but what many would not know is that I stopped hosting events years prior to coming back.
I began my hosting career in 2005 at the age of 11 as a talent for ABS-CBN Davao (Southern Mindanao), and from there, I hosted pageants, weddings, corporate gatherings, and more. At such a young age, I was fortunate to gain experience in an industry many children my age would not have the chance to.
The journey had its challenges, especially in my early years. My first gigs were school events and local gatherings, where I learned by doing—handling scripts, managing live crowds, and overcoming stage fright. Without formal training, I learned by observing seasoned hosts and diving in. Hosting large events like beauty
After a decade of hosting, I reached a point where I felt the need for a break. Life had shifted, and I needed to prioritize other things. It wasn’t that I lost my love for hosting, but like many creatives, I felt the need to step away to recharge and explore different paths. I focused on other career opportunities and reflected on who I was becoming.
Over time, I attended many events and, watching other emcees, I began to reminisce about my hosting days. I found myself imagining what I would do on stage, feeling the excitement of the role, even though I feared being “rusty.” In 2016, JCI Davao needed an emcee for their 68th Induction and Investiture Ceremonies. I was hesitant at first, but with encouragement from fellow new members, I agreed. That event marked my return to hosting.
Through my time with JCI, I’ve honed my social and communication skills, timing, and ability to engage an audience—all essential traits for a great emcee. In the past two years, I’ve been invited to host events across the Philippines, particularly in Cebu, including inductions and corporate events, thanks to the network I’ve built through JCI. I’m grateful for the opportunities JCI has given me to grow personally and professionally, and to share my talents with others.
As I always tell my fellow Davao Jaycees: “In JCI, you come in with one goal in mind—networking, helping the community, training, and building your career. But you’ll realize you gain so much more through the opportunities you can only seize by staying active and making a positive impact on yourself and others.”
You come in with one goal in mind—networking, helping the community, training, and building your career. But you’ll realize you gain so much more through the opportunities you can only seize by staying active and making a positive impact on yourself and others.
