Another cause for Ian

There is no stopping Ian when it comes to causes. He was recently chosen by MTV (Music Television) Philippines to front and host a TV special tackling the very sensitive issue of human trafficking. This is in response to the clamour to sow awareness and increase prevention on this billion-dollar worldwide problem, which the United Nations define as “the recruitment, transportation and receipt of a person for sexual or economical exlpoitation by force, fraud, coercion, or deception in order to make a profit.” Victims of this escalating problem hail mostly from Asia and the Pacific, including the Philippines, as heartless traffickers target those who wallow in poverty.

Rather than feel daunted by this highly-sensitive issue, he feels honored to be part of this urgent need to tackle the problem. “Well right now, I’m very very proud, very very honored to be part of this great effort," Ian said at the launching of MTV’s Exit: End Exploitation and Trafficking Campaign at Hard Rock Cafe in Makati last September 25. He now joins other well-known celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Tata Young, and Rain as voices against human trafficking. His travels as an entertainer has brought him to countries like Kuwait, Qatar, among others, and would see Filipinos running away from their abusive handlers.

Ian recognizes the social responsibilities of being a celebrity. He knows that he can help and encourage young people to support worthwhile endeavors. And that is what he has been doing for years now. He has been tagged to support various causes to help increase awareness and participation from the people who support him.

“As an entertainer, I want to reach out to them. I want to reach to the Filipino people to be aware of what’s happening. To be smart and realize that not all opportunities are good opportunities. Study them before you head off and hopefully this effort would really bring out that message,” he explained. “I think as an entertainer, you have to be ready for anything. But the most important thing is to really share to the people using all your influence. Hopefully, people will get more informed because of this event.”