Marco Masa is Leading His Own Story
From a heavenly debut as Nathaniel to a redemptive run in a reality television show, the 18-year-old actor is proving his maturity has finally caught up with his talent
For a generation of Filipino viewers, Marco Masa will always be the boy with the halo. In 2015, he captured the nation’s heart as the titular character in the fantasy-drama series Nathaniel, portraying a young angel sent to Earth to restore humanity’s faith in kindness.
That role that defined his childhood and cemented his place as one of the industry’s most beloved child stars. But today, the 18-year-old actor is trading his wings for a more grounded, mature path.
Marco’s journey back into the public eye reached a fever pitch in late 2025 and early 2026 during his stint as a housemate in Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0. Dubbed the “Wonder Brother ng Antipolo,” he entered the house as a young man carrying a deep sense of responsibility and family devotion.
The “Wonder Brother” at heart
Marco earned the moniker “Wonder Brother” for his dedication to his brother, Justin, who has Down syndrome. This profound bond, defined by a unique language of gestures and eye contact, shapes Marco’s worldview.
His primary motivation in the demanding entertainment industry is to provide for his family. He dreams of buying them a larger home and taking them on international trips. This sense of duty serves as a North Star, keeping him grounded even under the brightest spotlights.
“I didn’t let people’s perceptions shape who I actually am, because I know myself better than anyone else. As long as I know I have pure intentions and a good heart, that’s what truly matters.”
Marco’s grounded upbringing, which values empathy over extravagance, has helped him navigate early fame with maturity. Despite beginning his career at age four, he remained a diligent student, graduating from junior high with honors in 2024.
Resolve and second chances
Marco’s PBB journey was a masterclass in resilience and mental fortitude. Evicted on Day 36, he described the experience as overwhelming and shocking, struggling with being misunderstood by the public.
He refused to let the setback define him. Using his time outside the house for reflection and preparation, he treated the wildcard round as his definitive moment for redemption.
“I was just really locked in… it became my purpose to show people how capable I am and that they were wrong about me.”
He fought his way back into the house on Day 79 by winning a wildcard challenge where he had to guess the word “second chance”. This return marked a shift in his strategy, displaying immense determination, exemplified by his now iconic “Ultimate Eye” challenge.
Shifting the lens
Out of the house, Marco is focused on becoming a mature leading man. Having grown up in the public eye through roles like Honesto, he is eager to move past his child star origins. He wants audiences to recognize the 5’10” young man he has become.
Marco is actively seeking roles that match his current age and maturity. He views PBB as the bridge that helped the public see him as a young adult. His goal is to become an idol capable of carrying a production with true gravitas.
“I’m growing, not just as an artist but as a person, so that I can fulfill future roles that are appropriate for my age.”
This transition is underway through a string of diverse, mature projects. He has appeared in productions like the Netflix film Outside and the horror The Caretakers, exploring complex emotions that were unavailable to him as a child actor.
Authenticity in the spotlight
Marco remains committed to authenticity in an industry often built on artifice. He approaches constant public criticism with a growth mindset, refusing to let the negative opinions cloud his own self-judgment.
He views constructive feedback as a tool for improvement rather than a personal attack. By acknowledging his flaws, he has become a relatable role model for his generation, believing that staying true to his values is the only way to sustain a long career.
“Of course, I’m only human, so I get affected too, but I would rather choose to stand firm on who I actually am.”
Outside of acting, Marco is a man of many interests. A former competitive chess player and avid billiards enthusiast, he often shares these hobbies with his brother and father. He is also learning DJing from his father, a former DJ, and hopes to master the piano and guitar in his spare time.
Looking forward
As Marco looks to the future, the lessons from his PBB “detox” remain with him. He has learned the importance of self-reflection and focusing on the present moment rather than dwelling on the past or future.
His message to his younger self, and to young Filipinos watching him, is simple: “Everything is going to be okay. No matter how deep, or no matter if you reach rock bottom, there’s always your family, God especially, who will lift you.”
His final message is one of self-belief:
“You have to believe in yourself in order for others to believe in you, too”
From the cherubic angel who taught a nation to believe in miracles, Marco Masa has evolved into a man of resolve and substance, deeply grateful for the lessons learned during his most challenging moments. Now, he is ready to lead his own story.
Chief of Editorial Content Patrick Ty
Photography Jharwin Castañeda
Art direction Summer Untalan
Fashion Ryuji Shiomitsu
Editor Dayne Aduna
Grooming Myckee Arcano, assisted by Jam Jacobe
Photography assistants Joshua Navato and Aljon Celis
Fashion editor Rex Atienza
Fashion associate Corven Uy
Special thanks Sparkle GMA Artist Center, Rochelle Tuazon-Chavez, Caiel Pajarillo, and Ysa Solon
