Plunging headlong into showbiz waters

Enchong Dee will never turn his back on swimming. This is what the next Eric Buhain assures RP’s swimming team, now that he is enjoying his stint in ABS-CBN’s youth-oriented show, Star Magic Presents Abt Ur Luv.

Enchong temporarily keeps his SEA and Asian Games trunks and goggles in the closet to give way to his other passion – acting.

"I can balance showbiz and sports," shares the younger brother of TV personality AJ Dee. "He (AJ) reminds me that I should not forget my studies and swimming. Somehow they have helped me become the person I am today and enjoy what I have now." The discipline of an athlete, many think, will make Enchong shine in the business of entertainment.

"Showbiz is fun," says Enchong. "So far, I’m enjoying it because there are no intrigues yet to answer or clear myself from. It’s also like a school, where I learn and discover new things."

Besides, Enchong’s work load doesn’t demand much of his time. The swimmer-turned-actor tapes for Abt Ur Luv every Saturday and shows off his dancing skills on ASAP every Sunday. Enchong is still the Average Joe he is offcam, religiously attending his Developmental Studies classes in De La Salle University and sports training.

In Abt Ur Luv, Enchong plays Blue, an immature, rebellious teenager. He has no sense of direction and organization. Blue is a far cry from who Enchong is in real-life.

"I’m not the loud type of rebel," says the athlete-actor. "I show the rebel in me by doing well in school and training to get the attention I need. I’m basically not rebellious."

Enchong is happy showing the quirks of every teenager out there. In season two, however, love will finally find its way to his character’s heart. Hopefully, Blue will not be entangled in a love triangle.

Enchong’s interest is not all showbiz and sports. Politics – international politics – is on top of his list. He would love to talk about cultures and conflicts they bring. The future ambassador or consul of the Philippines considers South African President Nelson Mandela a political icon for his fight against apartheid. Enchong says Mandela has shown the world that there’s dignity in color – be it white or black. It may sound cliché, but Enchong believes the issue or tension between Muslims and non-Muslims boils down to communication and understanding.

Enchong is grateful swimming has given him the opportunity to become "culturally-sensitive" through competitions abroad where he has met individuals from Southeast Asia and beyond. In the last Asian Games, Enchong has found at least five new friends per country and touches base with them through the Net.

Meantime, let’s watch Enchong do the backstroke or the butterfly stroke as he tries his hand in showbusiness.

Enchong still remains local sport’s – and soon, showbiz’s – gain.