Who would’ve thought that one of the most celebrated actors in Philippine showbiz today once spent sleepless nights and long hours waiting tables?

Yes, you read that right—Coco Martin, the King of Primetime, wasn’t always basking in the limelight. Before the glitz and glamour, there were struggles, sacrifices, and sheer determination.

In a heartfelt interview, Coco candidly opened up about his humble beginnings and the time he worked as a waiter to make ends meet. “Hindi madali ang buhay noon,” he shared, his voice tinged with nostalgia. “Lahat ng trabaho, pinasok ko para lang kumita. Pero kahit mahirap, hindi ko hinayaang mawalan ako ng pag-asa.”

The Hustle Before the Dream

Born Rodel Nacianceno, Coco grew up in a modest household in Novaliches. Life was far from easy, but his family’s unwavering support fueled his determination. After graduating from college, he flew to Canada in search of better opportunities. There, he juggled different jobs—cleaning houses, working in a fast-food chain, and ultimately, waiting tables at a restaurant.

“May mga araw na tatlong trabaho ang pinagsasabay ko,” Coco recalled. “Gustuhin ko mang magpahinga, iniisip ko na lang ang pamilya ko sa Pilipinas. Lahat ng pagod, sulit basta makatulong sa kanila.”

A Turning Point

While hustling abroad, Coco felt a lingering tug in his heart—a calling to pursue his dream of becoming an actor. “Sabi ko sa sarili ko, kung hindi ko susubukan ngayon, kailan pa?” With a leap of faith, he returned to the Philippines, armed with nothing but passion and determination.

Coco started his showbiz journey with indie films, where he faced rejection and countless challenges. “May mga panahon na walang-wala ako, pero natutunan kong magtiyaga,” he admitted. His breakout role in Masahista put him on the map, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Never Forgetting His Roots

Now a household name, Coco remains grounded despite his incredible success. His experience as a waiter taught him valuable lessons in resilience and humility. “Malaking parte ng kung sino ako ngayon ay dahil sa mga pinagdaanan ko noon. Hindi ko kinakahiya ‘yun. Proud ako sa journey ko.”

Today, as the star of FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano and a director-producer for Batang Quiapo, Coco Martin is living proof that dreams do come true—if you’re willing to work hard and never give up.

A Message to Dreamers

To those who are still in the grind, Coco has this to say: “Huwag kang matakot sa hirap. Ang mahalaga, may ginagawa ka para sa pangarap mo. Hindi madali, pero siguradong may magandang kapalit ang lahat ng sakripisyo mo.”

Coco Martin’s story is more than an inspiring tale; it’s a testament to the Filipino spirit—undaunted, hardworking, and full of hope. From waiting tables to reigning supreme in Philippine showbiz, Coco has shown us all that the biggest stars often come from the humblest beginnings.