MANILA – Singer Gary Valenciano, or Edgardo Jose Martin Santiago Valenciano in real life, is celebrating his 45th birthday today.

Born in Sta. Mesa, Manila on Aug. 6, 1964, Gary V. is the sixth of Vicente Valenciano and Grimilda Santiago Ortiz’s seven children.

Valenciano, also known as Gary V., is best known for his hit songs like "Natutulog Ba Ang Diyos," "Di Bale Na Lang," "Hataw Na" and "Sana Maulit Muli." His energetic dance moves also earned him the nickname "Mr. Pure Energy."

He started performing in 1982 and he first appeared on television show "The Pilita and Jackie Show.”  But it was only in 1983 that talent scouts began to notice him especially after his guestings on "Germspesyal" and "Penthouse Live."

He had his first solo concert in April 1984 at the Araneta Coliseum where thousands came to watch him perform. He made more than 25 albums, three of which were released internationally, including a Christian inspired album called "Out of the Dark."

Valenciano has the most illustrious track record on the Philippine recording scene. He was named best male performer in the annual Awit Awards the most number of times.

In 1998, Valenciano was named as the first UNICEF National Ambassador of Goodwill for the Philippines, a position he still holds today.

He is married to Maria Anna Elizabeth "Angeli" Pangilinan, with whom he has three children: Juan Paolo Martin (a vocalist of the band Salamin), Gabriel (a dancer, music arranger) and Kristiana Maria Mikaela (a singer).