Macau-based Pinoy singer inspired by Kris

MANILA, Philippines - Macau-based Pinoy singer Clifford Allen Estrala (photo) has a crush on Kris Aquino, that’s why on his YouTube and Facebook, he’s dedicating the song Just A Smile Away to her.

The name may not ring a bell among fans in the Philippines but it soon might.

Clifford, who almost joined Pilipinas Got Talent just to be closer to his crush, is currently performing regularly in Macau, Malaysia, Singapore and other Asian countries, Clifford is recognized as an artist of the Filipino community.

He used to work as student assistant to priests in La Union, during which his singing talent got honed.

After college, during a gig at Puerto Galera in 2001 Clifford was invited to Macau to sing with a band.

“While singing with the band,” said Clifford, “I had to find a job to get a working visa. Fortunately, I was hired by the Venetian in Macau as a casino employee. I performed with the band on the side until Kara David featured me in OFW Diaries. This led to my becoming a stringer for TV show.”

He then became part of the Philippine Independence celebrations of the Philippine Consulate in Macau.

His life story was also dramatized in Maalaala Mo Kaya, with Eric Santos portraying him.

Last March 27, Clifford successfully mounted a homecoming concert titled Voices From Asia at Metro Bar, West Ave., Quezon City. During the June 12 Philippine Independence Day celebration in Macau, he will serenade the 2011 Bb. Pilipinas-Macau candidates.