By the Editors of One Philippines

IN the early evening of the Celebrity Bazaar held for the benefit of the Southern Leyte landslide victims, organizer Ruffa Gutierrez was overheard whispering to a fellow actress: “Gosh, I’m so tired, my legs are aching.”

But the smile on Ruffa’s face belied whatever physical pain she felt, as she gamely went on presiding over the public auction of some of her designer gowns, one of which reportedly cost her Php 50,000 – but was now being sold to a fan for less than five percent of its original price tag.

While this was happening, dad Eddie Gutierrez was sitting backstage, beaming with pride at her daughter’s efforts.

The one-day Tiangge was said to have raised almost Php 1 million, with more pledges coming in from those who didn’t make it to the venue.

Two days after the event, Ruffa had a chat with the editors of One Philippines and explained why it has always been her nature to help those in need, especially the poor.

Where were you, what were you doing and how did you react upon hearing the news about Leyte?

I read it on the front page of the Turkish Daily News in Istanbul and was brought to tears. I was still a bit distraught because the Ultra stampede was still looming in my mind and then came another disaster. I wanted to reach out but I was so far away.

Have you always been this concerned about the poor?

Yes. Contrary to what people may think, I know how it is to be needy. My parents worked hard. We all did. Where I am now is a result of that.

How do you intend to distribute the proceeds of the Celebrity Bazaar?

We are channeling the funds through our recipient, the Shining Light Foundation. We have agreed to give all proceeds of the event to both UNICEF and the Philippine National Red Cross. In so doing, I know for sure that they will direct the funds to the Leyte victims. Both non-profit organizations are notable.

Can you give us an update on how much was raised and what kinds of item were sold?

Our goal was to reach a million pesos and by God’s grace I think we’re nearing our mark. We’re still getting donations from everywhere post-event, ha. The response to our plea was overwhelming and given the little time we had to prepare for it (two weeks), I think we did pretty good. We sold celebrity memorabilia, slightly used items and lots of new stuff at the bazaar. Even real estate, flip flops, images of the Santo Niño and food! I also did sampling of baby colognes with Venice’s and Lorin’s name on it, which sold out in less than two hours. Some were made in France and others were made in Hong Kong which sold for slightly cheaper than the French counterpart. There was really something for everyone! My fans say that my goods were the best bargains in the house. Where would you be able to get a Vintage Versace corset dress for only P350.00?

Tell us how you were raised by your parents.

As a child growing up in the United States, I recall having had a happy childhood. My parents taught me how to be independent, self-reliant and to follow my dreams. Mom was the disciplinarian, while I was daddy’s little girl. Every time mom said no to my wishes, dad always said yes!

What were the values they have imparted that you still hold on to?

To respect my elders, make my family a top priority, and to always remember those who have helped me get to where I am today.

Tell us about your husband and kids. What have you learned from raising your own family?

I have changed so much since I got married and gave birth to two beautiful baby girls. It was but natural to change my ways and see the world in a different perspective. I not only understand my mother more, but I have also matured considerably and have made not only God the center of my life, but my family as well.

Tell us about Royale Era. Is this a foundation?

No, Royale Era Entertainment is not a foundation. It is a family-owned production company that has produced high-quality feature films, concerts and movies made for television since its inception in 1995. (Please log on to www.ruffagutierrez.com for more info.)

How active are you in showbiz these days?

After getting married in 2003, raising my own family became my absolute priority. Following my relocation to Istanbul and having been blessed by two lovely girls, nothing I have ever done compares to the joy of raising children. Whenever I visit the Philippines twice or thrice a year, I still make it a point to meet with old friends in the industry and accept special projects such as photo shoots for glossies and TV guest stints, although I now have to be home by 10PM. I couldn’t have done a fundraising event like the Celebrity Bazaar for Leyte, if not for my showbiz network, At present, I am also president of Intel Media International Advertising Company, Inc. and Fashion TV Turkey.

Some of my friends wished the tiangge could be extended.

I have been swamped with phone calls, e-mails and requests for a repeat of the Celebrity Bazaar. Although I am quite flattered and it could be something to consider in the future, at the moment I am concentrating scheduling the turnover of proceeds to the Red Cross and to UNICEF before I leave at the end of the month. But I will keep you posted on further updates.

Bono, the singer of the band U2, was chosen along with Bill and Melinda Gates as Time magazine’s Persons of the Year (2005) for the impact they have done in alleviating the conditions of the world’s poor. In a way, are we also seeing a new Ruffa who’s thoroughly aware of social conditions that she would also use her power and influence to get things done to benefit the poor?

I have always had the sincere desire to help the less fortunate and have made it a lifetime commitment. In 1998, my Roof-A-Child Foundation was born which aims to house, feed and take care of needy children. Since then I had been quietly involved in many charities in Istanbul that are related to health care and education, especially supporting children in hospitals and orphanages. I hope to continue to share my blessings to the disadvantaged and to help raise funds for worthy causes.