I recently co-hosted several online bingo shows for FBM Philippines with radio host Papa Jackson. The success story of Papa Jackson is something so inspiring and worthy of this column. 

Born John Gemperle, Papa Jack is a well-known radio host who recently won the VP awards for Best Male DJ for his evening radio program on Energy FM called Papa Jackson’s Hello STG (Sorry, Thank You, and Goodbye). 

He gained widespread popularity for his unique voice and engaging style on the airwaves. His journey to stardom is a testament to hard work, determination, and an innate ability to connect with listeners from all walks of life.

Rough childhood 

Papa Jackson’s childhood was anything but easy, “At 10 years old, I would sell bottles and steel in karitons (wooden wheeled carts); during high school, I was a part-time waiter. We only had electricity when I was in grade five, and I ate my first French fries in my second year of high school. I even joined pageants because my lgbtq brother said we would half the winning. He would sew my costumes, and my job was to win the contest. Fortunately, I won most of them. I decided to leave Alcala, Pangasinan, to study at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in Manila, where I modeled to support my schooling," Papa Jack tells Gossip Girl.

Big break

Papa Jack’s big break came when he joined 90.7 Love Radio in 2007. His show, “TLC: True Love Conversations,” became an instant hit. The program revolved around love, heartbreak, and relationships, and Papa Jack’s ability to dispense advice with humor and compassion resonated with his audience. 

His deep voice, coupled with his straightforward yet empathetic approach, made him a beloved figure among listeners, particularly those navigating the complexities of love. What set Papa Jack apart was his relatability. He wasn’t just a voice on the radio; he was a friend and confidant to many. 

Listeners would call in to seek advice on their love lives, and Papa Jack would offer insights that were both practical and heartfelt. His popularity soared, and he became synonymous with late-night radio, earning the moniker "Papa ng Bayan." 

But for me, I would prefer to call him Papa ni Kara because one of the most memorable aspects of Papa Jack’s career is his on-air partnership with DJ Kara. Their chemistry is undeniable, and listeners quickly dubbed them “KARJACK.” 

Together, they host the show Hello STG, where their playful banter and natural rapport create a dynamic that keeps listeners tuning in night after night. So it is for real, I ask Papa Jack, “May crush si Kara sa akin. Ako matagal ko na siyang kin-rush. hahaha!” Papa Jack jokes.

Pang’s Purple Coffee

As Papa Jack’s popularity grew, so did his opportunities. He became a sought-after endorser for various products, from consumer goods to services. His endorsements were a natural extension of his persona—approachable, trustworthy, and genuine. Brands recognized his strong connection with his audience, and his influence in the market became evident. It dawned on Papa Jack that instead of endorsing the products, he could make them and earn more money.

“Eventually, there will come a time when the Papa Jack persona will end. And I need to be prepared. So, I started to do some research and development of my own and came up with my product - Pang’s Purple Coffee. I would always call a person Papang or Mamang, so Pang’s was the perfect name for my coffee. I am happy to announce that a Papua New Guinea and Malaysian networking group is now my exclusive distributor, and it will be sold in PNG and Malaysia as well. When my coffee product becomes lucrative, I will buy a two-hectare lot and rescue animals so they don’t have to be put to sleep," Papa shares with Gossip Girl his vision. 

Papa Jack’s impact on Filipino radio is undeniable. He redefined late-night radio, making it a space where listeners feel heard and understood. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched with his words and now with his coffee.

Erratum: In last week’s column, I wrote that Rommel “Sancho” Sanchez was the fifth member of Eraserheads. To correct this statement, Sancho only produced several songs for the Eraserheads; he was never a member of Eraserheads. He is the present guitarist for The Dawn.