Lea Salonga hopes to inspire next generation of Filipinos
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For decades, Lea Salonga has carried Filipino talent onto some of the world’s biggest stages. But beyond the awards, iconic roles and international acclaim, the Broadway star sees an even greater purpose in her journey: showing young Filipinos that they, too, can dream beyond borders.
Salonga recently reflected on the many generations of audiences who have come to know her through different chapters of her career. For theater lovers, she will forever be associated with Kim in Miss Saigon, as well as Éponine and Fantine in Les Misérables. For countless Disney fans, hers is the singing voice behind Princess Jasmine in Aladdin and the title heroine of Mulan.
“Some of you have met me as Kim. Some as Éponine or Fantine. Some of you heard my voice coming out of Princess Jasmine or Mulan and some of you have stayed with me through all of it. Thank you,” Salonga shared.
Her gratitude, however, came with a wish for the future. After building an extraordinary international career as a Filipina performer, Salonga hopes her accomplishments can serve as proof to younger dreamers that reaching Hollywood and the global stage is possible.
“I hope that someday, a young Filipino kid comes to Hollywood, sees my name and thinks ‘Oh, maybe I can get here, too,’” she said.
Salonga’s career has long represented a breakthrough for Filipino artists internationally. Her rise from Philippine theater to Miss Saigon and Broadway helped introduce global audiences to a performer whose voice and artistry would eventually become recognized across theater, film and music.
Yet Salonga made it clear that she views her success not simply as an individual achievement, but as a journey made possible by the people who supported her along the way.
“To everyone who has been part of this very improbable career and journey, thank you. Maraming-maraming salamat,” she expressed.
And after everything she has already accomplished, Salonga ended her reflection with a reminder that there are still more chapters ahead.
“The best part is I’m not done yet.”
For a new generation of Filipino performers looking toward Broadway, Hollywood and stages around the world, that continuing journey may be just as meaningful as the milestones Salonga has already left behind.
