From a laidback life in Tagbilaran City in Bohol, Luke at the age of 17, moved to a more exigent lifestyle in Cebu City to enter college and try to pursue his fervor for singing.
While he was studying, he worked as a singer in several bars and gimmick hubs in Cebu. He also occasionally performed as front act for various prominent singers.
At the age of 22, his singing career was launched as he was chosen as the new vocalist of famous band South Border in 1999.
Luke recaptured the heart of South Border's supporters with his hypnotic vibrant voice when he sang some of the signature songs of the group like "Kahit Kailan," among others.
But in 2002, Luke left the band and decided to continue his career as a solo artist. Although, he did not know what was in store for him as a solo performer, his determination and genuine passion for music guided him.
In the end, his perseverance paid off and was able to fulfill his promise to his fellow Boholanos.
His debut solo album became a hit. Some of his singles achieved critical success. He was acclaimed as Male R&B Artist of the Year and he got to travel to different places for his shows and concerts.
With all these dramatic changes in Luke's life, he said his kababayans have done a great part for him to achieve his success.
He is proud to say that his fellow Boholanos especially his family and childhood friends supported him through the ups and downs of his career.
He added that words could not express how grateful he is whenever he feels the support Boholanos are giving him.
Even Luke could hardly imagine how a dark-skinned, kinky-haired guy like him successfully penetrated the music scene but then he realized that it's all because of the support of his people.
As a promise he will continue to do his craft and do his utmost to keep clinging to the complicated world of entertainment.
Missing Bohol
With his hectic schedule, Luke said he could not keep longing for his laidback life in Bohol.
He said nothing will ever exceed the beauty of his island, that's why he always makes time to visit Bohol whenever he has time off.
"Panglao Island is the best!" he exclaimed. "From the city to Panglao Island 30 minutes you're there. For me, Panglao is better than Boracay although they have bars but when it comes to beaches, Bohol sand is still the best."
Aside from beaches, Luke also said he craves for his mother's "paksiw na isdang tulingan." This humble singer is family-oriented. Although he is candid with his "pasaway" behavior during his teenage years, he still considers himself as a good son.
"I am super close to my family. I was a 'pasaway' before when I was still studying. 'Friends, parties everywhere, girls yet when it comes to my family I'm always there," he shared.
Luke ended our interview with inspiring words for his fellow Boholanos: "Be proud to be a Boholano. Let's continue to promote our island, our tourism industry. I, as a Boholano will also do my part to help promote our homeland."
"I want to thank you all for all the support that you have given me since I started and until now especially my family and friends," he ended. (JRDB/Sunnex)
