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“Iba talaga ang treatment nila sa amin,” says former MTV Asia host Eduard Bañez about experiencing Asian hate in the US.

“You don't look like us. That's what a man told me,” ex-Nickelodeon star Eduard Bañez recalled his experience as a Filipino in the United States of America. He said that he'll never forget that scenario.

“It's very scary here in the US--Asian hate crimes are everywhere. It's a lot. But I'm very tough. Iba talaga ang treatment nila sa amin. When they see us, especially 'he Karens,' they mock us.

“Nakakalungkot. Where's the respect? Every time these things happen, bigla kong nami-miss ang hospitality ng Pilipinas. We are very welcoming sa lahat.”

In an interview, Bañez said he had a harder time fitting in. Though many Asian artists are getting their flowers now, the Fil-Am artist believes that Asian hate crimes are still around and that every day he has to work hard to prove himself.

“Siyempre, kapag nasa minority ka, you have to prove yourself. You have to be careful sa bawat galaw mo. There are places na you're free, there are places naman na bad ang treatment.”

The side comments and the feelings of not belonging are the two worst things he emphasized. “But I'm happy na Filipino community here is very strong. Laban lang.”

“Asian hate here is very wide. I wanted to make an impact in the community by increasing visibility. Kasi dapat nilang makita 'yung value natin as a human. We are working so hard kaya sana 'yung respeto nandun,” he said.

Bañez added, “Kapag napapanood ko sa TV na ang daming nakaka-experience ng Asian hate, nalulungkot ako. We should treat people equally and gracefully.”

When asked if he has plans on going back to the Philippines and revive his showbiz career, the former MTV Asia host replied, “Of course, nami-miss ko na ang Pilipinas. Iba kasi mag-welcome ang mga Pilipino.”

He also noted, “Nami-miss ko rin ang mga pagkaing Pinoy. Hindi ko ipagpapalit ang Filipino food. They give me comfort. Minsan nga, kapag kumakain ako ng Pinoy food here, it's like a homecoming. It feels homey.”

He happily announced that he's producing shows when he comes back. He plans to mount Ed Sheeran and Sia's concerts in the country once he returns from the US.

“Naka-work ko na ang Team nina Ed Sheeran and Sia for my music video. They were very nice and welcoming. Sana matuloy ang pangarap kong concerts na ipro-produce ko,” Bañez shared.

“Filipinos love Ed Sheeran. I should bring him to the Philippines. He has that charm na gustung-gusto ng mga kabataan. He has great voice na kahit nga guitar lang ang gamitin niya. Sia naman is so powerful as a singer. Iba 'yung power niya. And I love her songs.”

Missing his showbiz career in the Philippines, Bañez starred in some teleseryes, movies, and commercials.

His learnings being a dreamer outside the country: “Accept who you are. Be happy on what you get. What you did is what you will get. Being successful is a process of determination.”

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