Interview

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Who wants to do Hula? His new girlfriend, for one

By Liberty Solis

April 10, 2006

San Diego--“Want to do Hula?” No, not the dance, but one of the morning show members of San Diego’s Channel 933 AJ’s Playhouse.

In recent months, that’s been the big question surrounding one of San Diego’s most eligible bachelors, who recently changed his MySpace.com profile to “in a relationship.”

Although named Hula, an ancient form of Hawaiian dance, Hula is known for his signature character, Lucky Balut.

His Filipino-American background has brought comedic relief for the San Diego Filipino community. Rather than being offended about his Filipino-referenced comedy, the Fil-Am community has praised it. It has bridged a cultural gap Filipinos have been waiting for in San Diego.

Hula recently hooked up with Vyuz at the Clair De Lune coffeehouse in order to chat about his influence on the Filipino-American community and his newfound “honeymoon stage” romance.

Why did you decide to name yourself Lucky Balut?

I remember growing up and seeing the Sharon Cuneta show on TFC (The Filipino Channel) and at the end of her show, she would say, “I love you Lucky!” in reference to her son. I thought the name was pretty cool. The “Balut” last name was in reference to Balut eggs from the Philippines.

How do you come up with your jokes?

My jokes come from my parents and what they taught me. My parents are big storytellers along with the rest of my family. Believe it or not, Filipinos like being in the spot light—I know, SHOCKER! I think you can get laughter out of anything. This can help anyone in the long run.

What do you do on your spare time?

Generally, I love to sleep! Just kidding! Actually, I work out four times a week, as well as being involved in martial arts at the United Studios of Self Defense in Pacific Beach five days a week! Yup, I’m an orange belt! I also like traveling, hiking and spending time with my girlfriend.

Lucky Balut has a strong Fresh off the Boat accent. Do you speak Tagalog fluently?

No, I actually don’t. My father didn’t teach my siblings and me Tagalog because he experienced racism in the Navy and didn’t want us to have an accent. He didn’t want us to go through what he went through when he first came here from the Philippines.

This is funny because now, I get paid for the character of Lucky who has this kind of FOB accent. I’ve never referred to Lucky being Filipino—people just assume he is.

Do you want to learn Tagalog?

Yes, I really wish I could speak the language. I can understand Tagalog, but I can actually speak Spanish much better.

Have you received any negative feedback from the community because of your jokes?

Somewhat. Sometimes people will e-mail and say, “Hey, not all Filipinos say or do that,” or “How come you are telling our secrets, Hula?” But, I see that as a positive thing. The more I bring up my culture, the more other Pinoys and Pinays can relate and the more our culture is represented. Nothing I do is intended to be malicious at all.

Do you feel like you are a strong role model for the Filipino-American community?

Honestly, I do. Whether I wanted to be one or not, I just am. When you are in the media, you are automatically placed in the position of being a role model. I am happy to represent.

What else do you do on the show other than Lucky Balut?

On the show, I am the Stunt Guy. I am the guy who’s willing to do anything, anywhere, at anytime. It’s true, I have bungee jumped, ran around naked, sky dived, as I always say: “NEVER DARE ME SUCKA! CAUSE I WILL DO IT!” I also write song parodies that make light of current events that we cover on our Wednesday morning show. Behind the scene, I am in charge of our website. You should take a peek: www.playhouse.clearchannel.com

Other than being funny, what kinds of things are you serious about?

I am serious about my family and close friends. Also, taking initiative in career and health goals.

Any messages for anyone trying to get into the industry?

Don’t let anyone tell you “No.” If they do, keep trying until you change their mind! Be persistent and be yourself. In then end, that’s all you have!

Any future projects other than Channel 933?

Well, I was going to further my modeling career but then decided to pursue my dream of becoming the next big pop star. However, radio has pushed me further. All joking aside, I would like to write more and be more involved with kids. Possibly, participating in more community outreach programs.

How are you and your new girlfriend?

My girlfriend and I are awesome! I truly am very lucky to have met her. She’s not only beautiful, funny, intelligent, independent, and confident, but she loves to laugh. I love making her laugh.

Is there anything else San Diegans should know about you?

Nope, that’s me in a nutshell. So now you know, and knowing is half the battle.

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Liberty Solis is a freelance writer. This is her third contribution to Vyuz.