Remembering Lea Salonga’s wedding as she confirms split with Robert Chien
Photo by Andy Tecson
NEW YORK — I was one of the lucky journalists who witnessed Lea Salonga and Robert Chien’s wedding more than two decades ago in Los Angeles.
At the time, I had just moved from Cebu to Daly City to join my mom and was working as a correspondent for Philippine News.
It was January 10, 2004, at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles. The ceremony was deeply emotional.
Photo by Andy Tecson
Lea was radiant in her Monique Lhuillier lace gown, walking slowly down the aisle as Rob tried to hold back tears. He had recently lost his mother, and it showed. Their bond was honest and tender. Lea even sang her vows, making it one of the most unforgettable moments I’ve witnessed as a reporter.
Photo by Andy Tecson
Among the few celebrities present was Boy Abunda, in his signature black outfit, covering the event exclusively for ABS-CBN.
‘Miss Saigon becomes Mrs. Chien’
I remember being the only Fil-Am journalist there and later writing my story titled “Miss Saigon becomes Mrs. Chien,” a nod to Lea’s Tony-winning Miss Saigon legacy.
Soon after, Lea and her brother Gerard sent me a reception invitation at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel – a thoughtful gesture that spoke volumes about the kind of person she is.
Since then, I’ve covered Lea’s career milestones – from “Les Misérables,” “Allegiance” and “Here Lies Love” on Broadway to her concerts at New York’s Town Hall, The Carlyle and Lincoln Center.
Lea Salonga poses for the camera during my interview backstage at Les Misérables in New York IN 2007. CONTRIBUTED
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When I founded The Outstanding Filipino Americans (TOFA) Awards in 2011 at Carnegie Hall, Lea, along with Loida Nicolas Lewis and then-consul general, Amb. Mario de Leon, was one of the first to show up and support the event’s mission to honor Filipino excellence in the United States. She even joined our small gatherings hosted by Atty. Lewis, often with Rob, their daughter Nicole and Lea’s mother, Mommy Ligaya.
Lea Salonga with (from left) her mother Ligaya, the writer and her former husband Rob Chien at a TOFA after-party hosted by Loida Nicolas Lewis in her Manhattan apartment in 2015. CONTRIBUTED
Lea Salonga with Boy Abunda (right) and the writer after the TOFA Awards at Carnegie Hall in 2018. CONTRIBUTED
Lea has always been a commanding presence – disciplined, outspoken and authentic. Some people label her mataray or mayabang (snobbish or arrogant), but fans like me understand where it comes from. She values professionalism and self-respect. Her firmness protects not just her peace but her artistry.
That strength also explains why news of Lea’s separation from Robert didn’t stir up much gossip. Earlier this week, while promoting Les Misérables, Lea confirmed that she and Rob Chien had “been apart for a while” but remained friends and continued to support their son, Nic Chien, in his journey.
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Maybe the quiet response says something about the deep respect Filipinos have for her. For decades, Lea has been our Broadway pride, Disney voice and cultural icon. She’s not perfect – nor does she pretend to be – but her consistency, honesty and world-class talent make her one of a kind.
Lea’s story continues to inspire, and as she closes one chapter, her enduring legacy – and her place in our hearts – remain unshakable.
