Don Benjamin Manalo, also known as Benj Manalo, is a well-known actor and dancer in the Philippine entertainment industry. He is also well-known for his role as Pinggoy in the top-rated prime-time series FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano. He has also appeared in several shows, including ‘On the Wings of Love,’ ‘The Story of Us,’ ‘My Super D,’ and ‘Kadenang Ginto.’ He is the second child of comedian and TV host Jose Manalo.
In his interview with Cabinet Files, Benjamin revealed that his father, Jose Manalo, never helped his siblings to enter the showbiz industry because he wanted them to learn on their own and get what they want by working really hard.
Benj claims that he did not tell his father about his decision to join StarStruck. The ‘Eat Bulaga’ host was surprised when the StarStruck crew suddenly arrived at their home. He even thought he was the one he was picking up at first, but it turned out that the staff was looking for Benj.
Benj added that his joining StarStruck was a big accomplishment for him because he knew in himself that he did not rely on the name of his father, Jose.
When asked if Benj had thought of using his father’s influence, he answered,
“To be honest, siguro mga bandang ano, nung nagtrabaho ako ng call center, noong after ko mag ano, mag StarStruck, nagtrabaho ako sa call center tapos nagsa-salesman ako sa mga department store.”
He added,
“Humihingi na ako ng tulong sa kaniya noon before, pero lagi niyang sinasabi ‘Eh kung gusto mo talaga, gapangin mo mag isa’.”
According to Benj, his father’s statement serves as a push or motivation for him to do his best. Benj did not feel bad for his father because the actor saw his father’s actions as encouraging him to be better and give his all.
He shared,
“Siguro not financially nya ako tinutulungan, or connection wise. Pero tinutulungan niya ako in terms of wisdom. So mas chine-cherish ko yun sa dad ko na kung hindi niya ginawa sa’kin yon, hindi ko maiintindihan o kung paano ako maglalaro sa industriya…”
