The definition of a heartthrob is, “An attractive and usually famous man.” That is Rocco Nacino! He is a popular, multi-awarded, handsome actor in the Philippines. However, it takes more than an attractive face to become a successful hunk. While I was on vacation, I was lucky enough to spend time with him and his family. Our mothers were high school friends and have been close ever since. The Nacino family hosted a get together at Conti’s Restaurant near Wack Wack. I wanted to interview Rocco and see what it is like to be, “The Filipino Heartthrob."
Acting was not in Rocco’s plans. He attended Mapúa Institute of Technology for nursing and wanted to pursue medicine. Rocco loves kids and dreamt of becoming a pediatrician. Before taking up this path, he decided to take a year off to explore acting. He always enjoyed performing and wanted to see if could make a career out of it. Thus, Rocco tried out for Starstruck, a Filipino acting competition/reality show. He made it to the final five and was the second runner- up. However, fate had other plans, and he was offered a lot of projects.
Rocco has appeared in eight TV shows. In fact, he is currently doing Encantadia, which is a hit Filipino action and fantasy series. According to the Philippine Star, “Encantadia is one of GMA 7’s most successful telefantasyas ever. At the time of its release, it was the grandest, most unforgettable and most expensive production for Philippine television.” He loves filming Encantadia because it is his playground. Rocco feels like he's playing every day since he gets to be in costume, uses a sword, and does fight scenes (He is an accomplished Jiu Jitsu Practitioner and martial arts expert, so it helps with the plethora of action scenes).
Being a Filipino actor requires more integrity and hard work than an American actor. In the Philippines, it is always about the budget. Actors have long working hours and do not have the luxury of doing things at a slow pace since the shows are televised daily. For example, actors typically tape four scenes in the United States. Whereas in the Philippines, a normal taping day would be 30. He remembered a time when he did 60 scenes in one day. With the immense popularity comes the loss of privacy and test of patience too. However, there is more good than bad. The positives about being a celebrity in the Philippines is the fame. Rocco likes it when people know his name and appreciate his talent in acting. He is open to receiving constructive criticism since it is what helps him to improve. Last but not least, Rocco gets to travel for shoots.
Not only is Rocco a celebrity, but he is also a Filipino heartthrob. The best part about being a hunk is the girls. Filipino fans, especially the females, love swooning over celebrity crushes. It is fun to be appreciated by girls who think he is dashing and like what he does.
Rocco’s advice to teenagers, especially aspiring actors and actresses, is never forget to make the most out of life and always go for the experience. Do not be afraid of failure and always be sincere. He values education and advises young people to attend school before pursuing an acting career. Rocco added that, “Studies will make your parents proud, and it is an opportunity to educate yourself. So many actors just finish high school, and it can be a disadvantage. Intellectual conversations are not as stimulating, and they do not know how to deal with people.” The bottom line is that education is an investment and the key to a better future.
What I admire the most about Rocco is his character. Rocco is compassionate and has a deep concern to help others. He pays it forward with his numerous charity and fundraising events for the less fortunate: cancer stricken patients, gift giving to indigent kids, and much more. He has made it his life mission to make a difference in the lives of the Filipinos, especially the underprivileged and those who cannot fend for themselves. Not a lot of famous heartthrobs have a heart as good as his.
Most importantly, it warms my heart to witness how closely knit the Nacino family is. He and his brother, Kyle, are best friends and have great camaraderie. Sibling rivalry is nonexistent in this bond. No matter how busy he is, Rocco always makes it a point to spend time with his parents and brother. His mom, Tita Linda, and dad, Tito Ralph, did a magnificent job in raising Kyle and Rocco. They instilled an important sense of values that a lot of young men today do not have.
It takes more than just a handsome face to be a successful hunk. Rocco takes it to the next level. He has the heart, the character, and the smile that is all so cute and sincere. He is the complete package! Enrico Raphael Quiogue Nacino is THE Filipino Heartthrob!
