Filipinos pay last respects to Michael Jackson
Filipino fans who cannot attend Michael Jackson’s memorial service continue to visit places that meant something to the King of Pop.
With limited tickets and final preparations are underway for Jackson’s memorial service at the Staples Center, Pinoys in the US chose to visit the King of Pop’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and his Neverland Ranch in California.
“Nalulungkot kami idol namin siya, superstar din talaga and he's gone. Were here to relive the memories,” said Becky Sajor.
More than 1.6 million people registered for free tickets to the event but only 8,750 names will be drawn at random.
Some Filipinos were seen paying their last respect to the music legend at the Neverland Ranch or the magical kingdom that Jackson created for himself.
“I am so really happy to see all these people who love Michael so much. I am very proud to say na ang dami talagang nagmamahal sa kanya because he was a good person,” said Norma Gamayo.
Another Jackson fan, Daniel Eusebio said they went there to celebrate Jackson’s life.
“I don't really want to say goodbye but it’s more of celebrating the life of Michael Jackson, all the positive things he's done for us,” said Eusebio.
Many others visited Jackson’s star on the Hollywood's Walk of Fame where a makeshift shrine was getting bigger by the day.
“Bata pa siya tagahanga na ako ni Michael. Kumanta pa siya sa Pilipinas,” said Zenaida Cadorniga.
Outside the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles, fans line up to sign their names and write messages on a giant poster of the pop icon.
"I know him. I love his music and I read everything about him. Although I can’t dance, I can’t sing, I love his music,” said Myrna Perez.
Around the venue, preparations are underway for Tuesday's (US time) memorial service.
Among the many celebrities expected to attend Jackson’s memorial service are Stevie Wonder, Mariah Carey, Lionel Richie, Usher and Kobe Bryant.
Fans are still awaiting details of the memorial service which will be broadcast live by five television stations in the US.
In the Philippines, ABS-CB will be covering the King of Pop’s memorial service at 12:20 a.m. (Wednesday in Manila) with veteran broadcast journalist Ces Drilon as anchor and singer Gary Valenciano as special. The “Paalam Michael Jackson” will be aired live by ANC and Studio 23. With report from ANC’s On the Scene

