The self-confessed "nerd" is living a life that is a far cry from his days as a 15-year-old singer of a band called SOHCAHTOA (a trigonometry term) whose first gig was at a wedding. He has become an overnight celebrity after appearing on the reality TV show "Rockstar:INXS".

Life is now different as he is recognized around the world. But unlike many celebrities who rue their supposed "loss of privacy," MiG revels in the attention, saying "it is fun to meet all the different people that appreciate my work."

He admits that he would have loved to win the search for the new lead singer for INXS but says that "Life gives you paths" and that he was given a "curveball". Thus, while he used to say that the reality show was `the greatest thing I will never do again" he now realizes that he has also gained a lot from it, including being signed up by Universal Records. "Luckily I have been able to go from one point to another point," he says.

After losing out to J.D Fortune and Marty Casey for the coveted part, MiG was given the opportunity to record a concept album entitled `MiG' where he sings classic rock songs accompanied by classical instruments. It is now in stores in Hong Kong and features hit songs such as `Baby I Love Your Way' and `Kiss From A Rose' as well as three original compositions. He describes it as an `international album' as it was recorded in various locations including Abbey Road Studios in London and Capitol Records in LA.

As the star of "We Will Rock You," which ran for 37 days at the Lyric Theatre, MiG did eight shows a week, including the matinees on weekends, and managed to wow the crowds each time with his dynamic stage presence as well as strong vocals. Any one less committed or physically fit might have baulked at the idea of keeping such a demanding schedule but not MiG. His secrets? Pei Pa Kuo (the Chinese throat syrup), water and lots of rest. He also maintains that he `parties like an angel' and takes good care of his body.

But the dizzying run had not been a completely smooth ride for MiG. He recently fatigued his vocal chords, which caused him to miss a show. This, he says upset him, as he hates missing shows because his fans will get disappointed.

As he continues to perform, it becomes clearer to him that music "transcends borders". Traveling to countries such as Singapore, New Zealand and Hong Kong and performing songs of the iconic band, Queen, has made him realize how everyone reacts to music in the same way, regardless of race, culture or nationality. MiG concludes that rock and roll is a tried and tested formula, which people around the world will always appreciate.

On being Filipino, MiG, who grew up in Australia but was born in the Philippines and is of Filipino and Spanish descent, claims that it feels good to see Filipinos around the world making names for themselves. He recalls getting really impressed on learning that the "Jabba Wokeez," who were declared winners in MTV's "America's Top Dance Troupe" contest, are Filipinos. He also feels a certain connection to his "kababayans" and has been learning Tagalog which is evident from the way he greets a lady at the hotel with a cheerful `Magandang umaga'.

So what could we expect from MiG in the coming months? After "We Will Rock You" moves on to Bangkok, MiG plans to get back into the studio to record his sophomore album, which will be composed of all original music. He plans to release it by the end of the year or at the beginning of next year. ("The beginning of the year is always good", he says)

He is also taking one step at a time, trying to learn how the industry works as he goes along. He is also going to continue writing and performing as he feels blessed to "have the best job in the world".