By Marinel Cruz
Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines–“If you want to excel as a host, be original. Offer something that hasn’t been seen or heard of.”

The valuable tip is from Edu Manzano, one of the busiest TV hosts in the country today.

Known for his quick wit and infectious humor, the 51-year-old actor and current chair of the Optical Media Board hosts two game shows on ABS-CBN—“1 vs 100” and “Game KNB?” — plus the early morning variety program “Umagang Kay Ganda.”

Speaking at the launch of V-Go energy drink, which he endorses, Edu told the entertainment press: “Another secret of effective hosting is, be a good listener. You should just be reacting to your guests; you let them shine.”

Edu said he admired Jon Stewart (“The Daily Show”) for the latter’s “ability to converse intelligently about any subject — politics, entertainment, even literature.”

He said he liked David Letterman’s “impeccable timing and off-the-wall style — a little acerbic. I like that.”

Other TV hosts on Edu’s list include Oprah Winfrey and Barbara Walters.

On the other hand, Edu’s colleagues like his style. Bernadette Sembrano, a co-host on “UKG,” describes him as “a natural.”

John Lapus, of the talk program “Showbiz Central,” says Edu is “my male counterpart — spontaneous, funny, witty and smart.”

For Rica Peralejo, another “UKG” co-host, says Edu is the “best host in the country.”