More than just acting

MANILA, Philippines - When news came out that a recording company was interested in signing up Derrick Monasterio to be one of its contract artists, my eagerness to hear him sing began to grow. Thus, I was all eyes and ears while he was crooning a Martin Nievera ditty during a presscon for Tween Academy Class of 2012 held recently at the SMDC grand showroom in MOA. Derrick didn’t disappoint. His vocal power captured everyone’s attention.

“There’s an offer (from Sony BMG) but I’m not sure yet if it will push through,” says Derrick. “I’m happy because I thought it will all be about acting for me, but now, I’m beginning to show my talent in singing.”

Derrick started competing in singing contests in grade school and became a champion when he was in Grade 3. He even tried his luck in Little Big Star where Sam Concepcion was declared grand winner. He also got the chance to compete abroad when he joined his former school Claret’s Kilyawan Boys Choir.

“I have to temporarily stop schooling because of my hectic schedule but once my career becomes stable, I will definitely continue my studies.”

Derrick is an incoming third year high school when showbiz opportunity started knocking on his door. GMA 7’s Tween Hearts is his first acting project which also serves as his launching pad to bigger breaks. He’s in the cast of director Yam Laranas’ The Road and GMA Films/SMDC joint movie venture Tween Academy Class of 2012.

“I’m enjoying showbiz now because I get to improve my talent and develop my personality as well,” shares Derrick who admits acting in front of the mirror prior to portraying his character on cam.

His actress mom, Tina Monasterio, also gives him a tip or two about tackling roles as “she helps me every time there’s a new role to play.”

In the Tween movie, Derrick is school bully Maximo, who is putting a tough front to cover his weaknesses.

But off-cam, Derrick cannot pretend nor hide what he feels. In fact, he can be so tactless to the point of revealing that he was asked to keep a distance from his crush and co-star Bea Binene, as it might affect in the love team of Jake Vargas and Bea.

Derrick Monasterio: I’m happy that I’m beginning to show my talent in singing

“I can wait for Bea. Besides, no one knows how long love teams can last. But if ever their onscreen partnership succeeds, then I’ll still be proud for them kasi magiging big stars na sila.”

When asked if he has been given enough exposure in Tween Academy, Derrick, without any qualms answers, “I don’t mind whether or not I’ve been given enough exposure. This is my first movie, okey lang kung sila (Barbie Forteza, Joshua Dionisio, Jake, Bea) ang bida at mas magre-rate pag sila. For me, it’s a step-by-step process; I know my time will also come.”

(Tween Academy Class of 2012 opens Aug. 24 in theaters.)