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Tom Rodriguez visited four schools in San Diego, California to share insights with Filipino-American students.

Tom Rodriguez

Being Filipino-American, Tom narrated his journey from the U.S. to the Philippines and how he got into acting.

During his talk, he said, “I've been an actor and a singer for about 10 years now since I moved to the Philippines. I lived in Yuma, and I thought the only thing I was good at was doodling on a scrap of paper.

“That was my passion, I drew. And I had all these other passions that I wanted to explore but I was too scared to and I didn't know how people would receive me or what they would say, I was really inside my own shell.

“When I moved to the Philippines, a new world opened up.

Tom also encouraged the students to go after their dreams, “Whatever passions you have, just go for it.

“Whether it's a craft for acting or singing, they're both avenues for self-expression.

“If I didn't do it (acting) I would've regretted it because it's been an amazing journey.

The Dragon Lady actor also performed “Whether or Not” for the students.

Tom visited San Diego for the Mabuhay Festival which is part of the Philippine Independence Day celebration among the Filipino community.

Tom Rodriguez joins Mabuhay Festival in San Diego

Watch Tom's performance: