Gary Valenciano was last seen in a mainstream movie way back 1995 via ‘Hataw Na!’

MANILA, Philippines – Iconic singer Gary Valenciano’s plate is full till the end of the year with concerts here and abroad, a recording of the anthem for the 100th year anniversary of a giant international brand, as well as having his own new segment on “ASAP  2012.”

However, it’s his first movie in 17 years, “I Do Bidoo Bidoo” under Straight Shooters Media, that has him most excited – and understandably so. The last movie Valenciano did, the 2007 Cinemalaya entry, “Gulong,” cast him in but a cameo role.

His most recent mainstream movie, well, isn’t “recent” at all: “Hataw Na!” way back 1995.

Indeed, it’s been a long time coming.

“I wasn’t even sure if I was going to accept the part until Zsa Zsa Padilla, who is also in the film, came to me personally to ask about my decision,” Gary told Bulletin Entertainment and other members of the press in a recent interview.

“So I read the script, found the story to be really nice, and signed up for ‘Bidoo.’”  

“I Do Bidoo Bidoo” is a musical that will heavily use some of the hit songs of legendary ‘70s vocal group APO Hiking Society in order to move the story along. Gary’s character is husband to that of Zsa Zsa Padilla’s, and he plays father to that of Tippy Dos Santos’.

“My role is someone who has the heart of a good father but he lost it somewhere along the way.  I hold back on my own daughter and prioritize less important things,” Gary said.

Others in the cast of “I Do Bidoo Bidoo” are Eugene Domingo and Ogie Alcasid. Gary already shot his first scene in the film two weeks ago.

Asked which APO Hiking songs he likes the most, Gary cited “Batang-Bata Ka Pa,” “Pumpaatak Na Naman Ang Ulan,” “Awit Ng Barkada,” “Tuyo Ng Damdamin,” and “Nakapagtataka.” He revealed that the APO songs in the movie will be rearranged the way “Glee” does with songs it covers, and that there might be an original soundtrack, too. Gary’s film is set for release within the year.

Aside from “I Do Bidoo Bidoo,” Gary has embarked on a campus tour the latest legs of which are at the UP Sunken Garden Campus on Feb. 15, 8 p.m.; and at UST on Feb. 18. Both shows will also feature his sons Paolo and Gabriel.

As for his segment on “ASAP 2012” titled “With Love,” also the title of his latest album and recent TV special, Gary will perform uplifting songs inspired by true-to-life stories of some of the viewers.

According to a release, Gary is set to perform the official anthem of Coca-Cola, which is in line with its 100th anniversary, and he is also gearing up for a US concert tour in June this year.

2012 also marks Gary’s 29th year in the business and an anniversary concert series, which will happen in Music Museum in April and May is in the works.  His website www.garyv.com will be re-launched

 “For me to be able to continue in inspiring other people through the gift of music is truly a great blessing. It’s great to share my music to a broader, bigger audience. I can feel that 2012 will be an awesome year,” the 48-year-old superstar was quoted as saying.