Diego Loyzaga: Child of showbiz

MANILA, Philippines - “I’m a good mix of them,” replies Diego Loyzaga when asked if he sees more Cesar Montano or Teresa Loyzaga in him. His parents’ knack for acting has definitely rubbed off on him. It makes him a child of showbiz.

After a sojourn from show business, Diego will be seen in Mira Bella, another Kapamilya summer offering, which premieres today on Primetime Bida.  

“It was after Growing Up when I went to Australia,” recalls Diego. “I finished my studies which my parents told me that I should do. When I returned here, that’s when (my project) Petrang Paminta started with Julia (Barretto) and the MMK (Maalaala Mo Kaya) episode. Then now, I have this (Mira Bella).”

According to some showbiz watchers, Diego was initially tapped to be one of Julia’s leading men. Since nothing is constant in this world except change, the male lead roles went to Enrique Gil and Sam Concepcion in the final casting.  

“It’s work,” says Diego. “I still work for ABS. I’m still more than happy because I’m part of the cast. We’re a very happy set. Whatever character is given to us, we have to portray it. Whether lead or support, it’s all the same. That’s how we are taught. Pantay, pantay lang ang lahat. I’m OK with whatever role I get. Every role is important.”

From the boy-next-door and tweetum roles, Diego will be “portraying a different role. My character is a bully, maiinis sila sa akin. If they do, it means I’m doing my job.” Let’s see how Diego will make Mira’s (Julia) life extra challenging.

Like a true acting trooper, Diego is not afraid of being typecast. “My job is to become an actor. Whatever role they give me, it’s my job to portray it the best that I can. If they like me as kontrabida, then I’ll love them back. I don’t mind (playing such role). And I like it.”

Remember, Diego’s Dad Cesar started as a character actor before earning his stripes as an action star and leading man — and eventually as a director. Mom Teresa is effective in bringing out the “goodness” in female stars.   

Aside from doing TV projects, Diego wishes to have his own Bench billboards and to grace the annual Cosmo Bachelor Party. This hopefully will happen before he turns 19 this year. “There’s no day in the week that I don’t go to the gym,” Diego says.

How’s his relationship with Dad Cesar?

“Your dad is your dad, at the end of the day, no matter what happens,” answers Diego. “Wala kang ibang iniidolo sa buhay mo kundi ang tatay mo. I love my dad. He’s my only dad in the world.” If their schedule allows, you will see Diego and Cesar watching a movie, playing basketball or attending guitar lessons. “(My dad) is a runner. We’re both sporty and athletic.”

Mom Teresa was spotted during the Mira Bella presscon last week and was happy to see Diego giving showbiz another try. 

“We went to Church together,” shares Diego. “Being a child, it feels great that I’m with them (my parents).” At the age of 18, Diego has understood life’s imperfections. “I’ve learned this saying, ‘Past is past.’ Iwanan na natin dun. Let’s move on. Lesson learned is, water under the bridge.”

Diego is also challenged to juggle his studies with his showbiz career. He is an incoming Business student at La Salle. “My dad has businesses. So if the time comes that I have to take over one of (them), then I’m more knowledgeable to know what to do with it.”

“A good parenting is just,” Diego concludes. “I believe that parents should not be strict on their children. Show them the guidance and let them decide. That’s what (my parents) are actually doing.” That makes Diego an independent, grounded person.