From Manny Jacinto to Tom Rodriguez: Filipino actors redefining charm, talent, and star power

Time of India

17-07-2025

While Korean and Thai actors have been gaining prominence over the globe, there are also many talented stars from the Philippines. From powerful performances to unforgettable charm, these actors, singers, and media personalities have become icons in their own right. Here are some of the most charming and talented Filipino male stars who continue to steal the spotlight.
Manny Jacinto
The Filipino-Canadian actor, born August 19, 1987, first captured widespread attention with his breakout performance as Jason Mendoza in the critically acclaimed NBC comedy The Good Place (2016–2020). Before that, he built his career through small television roles that steadily showcased his range and charisma.
His success on the small screen led to appearances in major films, including Bad Times at the El Royale (2018) and Top Gun: Maverick (2022). In 2024, Jacinto stepped into the Star Wars universe as the mysterious Stranger, also known as Qimir and in the Disney+ series The Acolyte, earning praise for his darker, more complex portrayal. Beyond live-action, Jacinto brought his voice talents to animation, playing Scott Denoga in Disney Channel's Hailey's On It! (2023–2024).
Dennis Trillo
Born on May 12, 1981, he is a multi-awarded Filipino actor known for his bold and versatile roles. He gained widespread recognition for playing Eric del Mundo in My Husband's Lover, the first gay-themed primetime series on Philippine TV. His critically acclaimed performances include Simoun in Maria Clara at Ibarra and Colonel Yuta Saitoh in Pulang Araw, both aired on GMA and streamed on Netflix.
Trillo's breakout came in 2004 with Aishite Imasu 1941: Mahal Kita, earning him his first acting award. With over two decades at GMA Network, he's earned the title of "Drama King," proving his staying power in both drama and romance.
Coco Martin
Born Rodel Pacheco Nacianceno Jr. on November 1, 1981, he began his career in independent cinema before breaking into mainstream television - bringing an intensity and realism that set him apart. Known for his versatility, he has built a powerhouse career as an actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. From gritty action to emotional romantic dramas, his work has earned both critical and popular acclaim.
His impressive list of accolades includes two FAMAS Awards, two Gawad Urian Awards, ten PMPC Star Awards for Television, eight Box Office Entertainment Awards, and recognition from the ASEAN International Film Festival. He is also among the highest-grossing Filipino stars of all time and his cultural impact extends far beyond the screen.
Inigo Dominic Pascual
He has proven he's more than just the son of Piolo Pascual. Born on September 14, 1997, he has steadily built a name of his own as a singer, songwriter, and actor in both local and international scenes. His breakthrough came in 2016 with the hit single Dahil Sa'yo - the first song to top Billboard Philippines' Top 20 chart and winner of "Song of the Year" at the Awit Awards. The track marked the start of his ascent as one of OPM's modern voices.
On screen, Iñigo has taken on diverse roles in films like Relaks, It's Just Pag-ibig, Crazy Beautiful You, and For the Hopeless Romantic. In 2020, he starred in the coming-of-age film Boyette: Not a Girl Yet, and in 2022, expanded to Hollywood through the Fox musical drama series Monarch, showcasing his talent to a global audience.
Tom Rodriguez
Born Bartolome Alberto Mott on October 1, 1987, stepped into the spotlight after joining Pinoy Big Brother: Double Up. What began as a reality TV debut quickly turned into a full-fledged acting career. Over the years, he has taken on a wide range of roles - from romantic leads to complex characters. Some of his most notable performances include My Husband's Lover, where he portrayed one half of a groundbreaking same-sex love story, as well as key roles in Mulawin vs Ravena, Someone to Watch Over Me, and I Heart Davao. He also appeared in the hit comedy film Here Comes the Bride.
As of 2025, he remains an exclusive talent under GMA Network and GMA Pictures, continuing to thrive as one of the network's most recognizable stars.
Billy Crawford
The Filipino actor and singer, born May 16, 1982, is known for his early success as a child performer on That's Entertainment and in films like Lost Command and Sandakot Na Bala. At 12, he moved to the U.S. to study performing arts and soon performed as a backup dancer for Michael Jackson at the 1995 MTV VMAs.
Crawford has since earned accolades including a FAMAS Award, an NRJ Music Award, and the Ani ng Dangal Award from the NCCA, marking him as a standout talent in both local and international entertainment.
Paulo Avelino
The Filipino actor, singer, model, and film producer, born on May 13, 1988, rose to prominence through hit television dramas such as Walang Hanggan (2012), Bridges of Love (2015), and The General's Daughter (2019).
On the big screen, Avelino is best known for portraying General Gregorio del Pilar in the acclaimed historical films Heneral Luna (2015) and its sequel Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral (2018), where he played the title role. His film credits also include the horror-thriller Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay, further showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Joshua Garcia
Born October 7, 1997, the actor first caught public attention as a contestant on Pinoy Big Brother: All In in 2015. Since then, he has steadily built a name for himself as a talented actor, dancer, and commercial model. He rose to fame with his breakout role in the 2016 MMFF box-office hit Vince and Kath and James, followed by his standout performance in the primetime drama The Good Son. Known for his emotional range, Garcia has become a staple in teleseryes like The Greatest Love, Ngayon at Kailanman, The Killer Bride, and Unbreak My Heart.
On the big screen, he has taken on a variety of roles in films such as Love You to the Stars and Back (2017), I Love You, Hater (2018), the thriller Ang Mga Kaibigan Ni Mama Susan (2023), and the romantic drama Un/Happy For You (2024), showcasing his growth as one of his generation's most promising leading men.
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