With an army of international models hurrying to land on our shores to earn a quick buck, a few things set Brazilian-Japanese sensation Daniel Matsunaga apart. Dedicated and serious about elevating his successful modeling career to the realm of television and the silver screen, his eyes are dead-set for the long haul. When not busy filming his drama series opposite Heart Evangelista on GMA-7, the 22-year-old makes sure he’s on top of his game — learning Tagalog and taking acting and hosting workshops to ensure that he’s more than just another face in the showbiz crowd. He’s aware of the hard work that comes with the path he’s chosen and is willing to suck it up — dealing with long hours, politics and all the backstage drama that comes with the package.
After being a sought-after model across the region for several years, dominating billboards and television ads, leaping into the world of entertainment will be a restart of sorts for Daniel. As he gears up for this new chapter, we caught up with him to discuss how he started as a young model in Singapore, his Skype rituals with his family back in Brazil, and why he wants to become a Filipino citizen.
YOUNG STAR: Let’s backtrack. Before dominating the scene, how did it all start for you?
DANIEL MATSUNAGA: I was 16 years old and my modeling agency in Brazil had a contact in Singapore so they flew me out. I stayed in Singapore for six months and it became my second home. I learned how to speak English, cook my own food, and live with other models from Russia, Germany and the US.
Coming from South America, was there a moment of culture shock upon arriving in Asia?
Well, in Singapore, it was very clean and I was surprised to find out that I can’t even chew gum! (Laughs) But the city was very organized and the people were professional. I embraced the city. I’d go jog at night in the Newton Area, shop at Orchard, play football at the beach, and have my favorite Singaporean dishes.
If you weren’t modeling, what would you be doing?
I would be studying biology or medicine.
If you could change one thing about you physically, what would it be?
I would change my feet. I play a lot of football so I use it up.
What do you think when you look at yourself in the mirror?
I’m always not satisfied and always look for room for improvement.
How do you keep in top shape?
I do a lot of sports, I go to the gym, and I like to pamper myself in the spa once in awhile. A healthy diet is the most important though.
How important is vanity for you?
Being a model, it’s part of the job — to make sure you always make yourself look better. The industry makes you conscious of that.
Are you threatened by the sudden influx of Brazilian models in Asia?
I don’t like competition and I’m not the jealous type. Here in Manila, all of them are very nice people and a lot of them are my friends. I also believe that there are jobs for everyone. If I don’t get the job now, God will give me a job later.
How do you deal with comparisons between you, and fellow “Brapanese” models Akihiro Sato and Fabio Ide?
I met them five years ago and the three of us are more like brothers. I like hanging out with them because those two are so funny. We play sports together, go out, and there’s no competition between us. I’m happy every time they get a project. It’s hard to branch out and become bigger in the modeling world and they both did so I’m proud of them.
You’re entering the treacherous world of showbiz. Who do you look up to in the local arena?
There are a lot of good actors out there, Piolo being one of them. I’ve also worked with Aljur for a show on GMA. Maybe in the future I could also get the same projects they have today. Regardless if it happens soon or a few years from now, I’m willing to work hard to achieve it.
Beautiful girls constantly surround you; name the ones that have caught your eye.
Marian Rivera, Heart Evangelista, Rhian Ramos and Bianca Manalo.
What do you say to the people who doubt your seriousness about the craft of acting?
Don’t generalize. A lot of Brazilian models stay here a few months and they leave after. I chose to be here because I want to pursue showbiz. It’s a challenge for me, to do different types of roles and I’m willing to learn.
What are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about football, although I’m very sad about the World Cup. (Laughs) I used to play professionally when I lived in Hong Kong. And here in Manila, we have a tournament every Sunday.
If you were on death row, what would you want for your last meal?
Balut! (Laughs) I guess I have to try it at least once. It’s very exotic and my parents were shocked when I explained to them what it was.
Do you get homesick?
I do miss my family a lot back home. I live in the capital of Brazil called Brasilia. Good thing I have my sister Vanessa with me here in Manila. My mom always calls me and we make it a point every night to pray together via Skype or MSN.
Who do you follow on Twitter?
I don’t have one but there are a lot of Daniel Matsunagas out there, but it’s not me.
What’s the sweetest thing you’ve done for a girl?
I met a girl in France, brought her to Asia, we traveled together and I even brought her here to Manila. Sadly, we’re no longer together.
What’s the last thing you do before going to bed?
I pray every night. I have to give thanks for what happened during the day. And I also brush my teeth, of course!
What do you look for in a girl?
A nice smile, nice teeth. I prefer girls with long hair and preferably more skinny.
What would you consider to be your greatest achievement?
Everything I’ve done here in the Philippines so far, I’m very proud of. I’ve done a couple of shows and even an independent movie.
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Here in the Philippines being a Pinoy, speaking Tagalog, acting, singing and dancing. I plan to be a Filipino citizen and I want to bring my family here as well.