MANILA - King of Pop Michael Jackson will remain alive in the hearts and minds of many Filipinos.

In 1996, he performed in the Philippines and, during the "King of Pop's" brief stay here, he touched and inspired many people.

Entertainment writer Dennis Adobas is one of his countless fans who witnessed a part of Jackson’s persona.

It was during Jackson’s concert at the Marina Bay in Parañaque City in 1996 that Adobas saw and felt the soul and art of Jackson, also known as MJ and Wacko Jacko.

Adobas, in an exclusive talk, revealed Jackson’s other self. “He was so nice. The only thing I forgot was to photograph him with me so that I could have a souvenir and a proof that I was with him during that time.”

He was introduced to Jackson through a production staff who was part of the American singer’s advance party in the Philippines.

 “We just smiled at each other. He was busy then. Another production staff had to talk to him so we missed the chance to talk, though,” he recounted.

When Jackson arrived a week later, he stayed at the Manila Hotel’s penthouse, a space reserved for international celebrities.

“I also slept in the adjacent room of Michael,” confessed the movie writer.

During the technical dress rehearsal, Adobas was invited by his friend to watch Jackson performed.

“After each number, Michael would sit in one corner of the makeshift stage. He had his own bottle of mineral water by his side,” recalled the movie reporter.

The writer also debunked reports that it was not Jackson who performed in Manila in  1996. 

“I can definitely say that it was Michael Jackson. The only thing I can’t guarantee was his singing because I keenly noticed that he was lip-synching his songs but that was during rehearsals. I think he did that to avoid being too exhausted and to preserve his real voice,” observed Adobas. 

Jackson also had a personal chef during his stay in Manila.

“But we also ate outside. We went to Aida Posadas’ East restaurant near the Sucat toll gate. Michael enjoyed the salad preparations,” he said.

The movie writer’s instant inclusion in Jackson’s entourage, however unofficial, entitled him to 20 tickets worth P8,000 each as complimentary.

He distributed these tickets to his casino friends and they all watched the once-in-a-lifetime show.