Roderick Paulate’s Unique Journey
If most parents are supportive of their children’s showbiz careers, Roderick Paulate’s dad was an exception. A typical disciplinarian, his dad — a former department head of The Manila Times — resented his entry into the showbiz fray. It was Roderick’s doting mom who had his back, cheering him on as he was slowly making a name for himself. In a lengthy yet insightful vlog interview by Ogie Diaz, the 63-year old actor shared his parents differed in the way he was brought up. Whereas his mom was his huge fan, his father never cared about what he aspired to achieve in life. The award-winning actor’s father resented his entry into showbiz but later on accepted his passion for performing.
A Turning Point
As a strict newspaper section chief, his father half-heartedly accepted Roderick’s decision to take the showbiz route provided he never got to stumble upon published articles about his son on the Times pages. But could the father help it most especially when Roderick began to be recognized during his fledgling years in the biz? It was at a play staged at the University of the Philippines (where Roderick obtained his college degree in mass communication) where the actor churned out an impressive performance that earned him a resounding standing ovation. The senior Paulate — who was seated in the audience — couldn’t help but marvel at his son’s praiseworthy performance, “You’re really an actor now!” Since then Roderick couldn’t be any happier that finally, his once non-fan dad made a 360-degree turn.
From Showbiz to Politics
Consistently, it has been Roderick’s conscious effort to put his best foot forward. The actor owes a lot to showbiz because without it, he might not have succeeded in transitioning to local politics years later. This is also precisely the reason why he wouldn’t allow his revered name to get sullied nor tarnished.
A Political Turmoil
It is saddening to note that in November of 2022, the Sandiganbayan found Roderick guilty of graft by hiring fictitious job contractors in 2010 while serving as Quezon City Councilor. Guess how much money was involved — P1.1 million! While his appeal was denied in January the following year, Roderick was unperturbed, citing his constituents who believed he was guiltless.
Support Amidst Challenges
Even his showbiz friends who know him well enough find the charges leveled at him downright silly. Despite the ugly side of politics, Roderick doesn’t regret having boldly taken the plunge into public service. He credits his showbiz roots to keep him combat-trained in facing the odds: “We’re used to intrigue.” What the actor considers the best, most fulfilling part in the midst of all this intrigue-laden realm of politics though is that: “It’s the smile you see on the faces you’re able to help the best way you can. Seeing their faces light up is one thing much bigger than you can imagine!”
An Enterprising Producer’s Tale
Before bankrolling quality movies, an enterprising producer (EP) already had a slew of existing lucrative business undertakings. Once the EP met with a well-connected showbiz figure (WCSF) to engage the services of the latter’s talent pool. Transacting business with the EP proved much too easy as he’s the type who calls a spade a spade. Not only does he fulfill what’s stipulated in the contract, he’s also generous in giving extra incentives.
