Drew Arellano has not slept for more than 24 hours when we caught up with him one Friday afternoon. He just got off from a taping of Puso ng Pasko: Artista Challenge, a new reality-TV challenge on GMA 7.
Drew was then on standby to host a product launch. He was also emcee of an unveiling event later in the day to be aired by 24 Oras that night.
The young television host was obviously busy but between trying to stay awake and answering questions for this interview, we couldn’t help but give credit to Drew for keeping his cool and professionalism under the circumstances. It also provided us a glimpse on Drew’s admirable discipline, not to mention his dedication and passion for his work.
“When there’s an opportunity, I grab it,” says Drew.
Drew, so it seems, loves being on the move. He is such an active person, a multi-tasker that he does not mind losing sleep or feeling exhausted as long as it serves his purpose — satisfying a passion or goal in life. Other than that, Drew will simply tell you to forget about it. Truth be told, Drew has turned down quite a few opportunities when they came in conflict with his interests.
“It’s not about the money,” explains Drew. “It’s about having the passion for something. Kasi when you lose that passion, you tend to move on. It’s not about having too many shows. (For me) it’s about believing in that show.”
Apart from Puso ng Pasko, the De La Salle University alumnus co-hosts three programs on local TV: Aha! (GMA 7), Unang Hirit (GMA 7) and Balik-Bayan (Q-11).
Drew accepted Puso ng Pasko not because it was dealing with the lives of showbiz couples — onscreen or offscreen — but because it was a reality TV challenge that tries to help “ordinary people who are helping other people.”
“I took the job because it’s a great opportunity,” enthuses Drew. “It’s in primetime and it has a good theme. Meaning, we look for people who are less fortunate but even if they’re so, they still manage to help (other) people. Every couple has a corresponding showbiz couple. So when the showbiz couple wins, it will help the individual, his family and community.”
One of the reasons Drew does not overwork himself in the industry as well is because he wants to commit himself to his other passions — business and sports.
Drew owns a few businesses ranging from a barber shop to supplying billiards sticks to a popular sporting house. He is also a triathlon buff and has actually been participating in the Ironman Challenge for the past two years. He’s now into motor biking as well which he dedicates his weekends to every chance he got.
“I’ve been a sports minded guy ever since,” confesses Drew. “Sometimes I turn down work for sports because it makes me happy. It gives me discipline, motivation, drive, the structure to be functional. Whatever venture/sports I am into I’m really (motivated) to be good at it.”
Apparently, it works for Drew as he remains one of the most in-demand TV personalities and hosts today. Girlfriend Iya Villania seems proud of her guy also. The two have been dating for more than six years. Marriage plans, however, are still not in the pipeline even though Drew is in the process of renovating a 150-square meter apartment he owned since college. According to Drew, the two are still enjoying what they have now together.
“It (marriage) was supposed to be sooner but I think there will be better opportunities for us if we don’t get married (yet). But Iya is THE ONLY ONE,” shares Drew.
All things considered, it is safe to say that Drew certainly knows his priorities. But when asked if he has always planned his life that way, he waxes philosophical when he said he simply goes where his feet take him.
“I take (everything) as it is,” simply puts Drew. “I am not a planner. I don’t have a five- to 10-year plan. I am simply the guy who is very carpe diem. My way of thinking is just enjoy the ride.”
Have fun, Drew!