From actor to storyteller: Matteo Guidicelli spotlights AFP heroes in ‘Patriots’
He is an actor, husband, soldier, producer, entrepreneur — and now, documentarian.
For years, Matteo Guidicelli has slowly built a reputation as one of the most multifaceted personalities in Philippine entertainment. While many know him for his successful acting career and his high-profile marriage to singer-actress Sarah Geronimo, Matteo has consistently proven that his passions extend far beyond the spotlight. And he works hard to achieve it.
Today, he takes on yet another meaningful role — as a storyteller entrusted with bringing the stories of Filipino soldiers to a wider audience through the new One News documentary series, “Patriots.”
Hosted by Second Lieutenant Matteo of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Reserve Force, “Patriots” shines a spotlight on the courage, sacrifice and service of men and women in uniform whose stories often go untold.
For Matteo, the project is more than just another TV assignment but rather a mission rooted in service, patriotism and integrity.
“It’s important that we represent the Armed Forces of the Philippines as best as we can — to inspire the youth and inspire the next generation,” Matteo shared as we caught up with him at the launch of the documentary.
We were with him when it was announced that he was about to embark on the project back in October 2025. We were also a witness on the stages of production where we were informed about the choices of subjects that he was about to shed a light on the AFP. But ultimately, he wants to champion love for country despite the many imperfections in the system.
“Hindi perpekto ang nangyayari dito sa bansa. Masakit sa puso. But we have to continue moving forward. Do not lose hope and lose integrity,” he said.
Those words reflect the values Matteo has championed throughout his career. Whether navigating the entertainment industry, serving as a reservist or pursuing leadership development, integrity has remained at the center of his journey.
That commitment was recognized during the launch of “Patriots,” where Matteo was honored with a medal from the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Yet despite the recognition, he quickly shifted the spotlight away from himself and toward the real heroes featured in the documentary.
“It’s not really for me, but it’s for the soldiers,” he said. “We’re just storytellers. Sila ang mga kuwento na dapat nating sabihin.”
The documentary’s first season features 13 powerful stories that highlight the realities faced by Filipino soldiers and their families. Through intimate interviews and firsthand accounts all over the country, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to protecting the nation.
At a time when headlines are often dominated by politics, controversy and conflict, “Patriots” aims to remind Filipinos of the human stories behind military service and it is a responsibility that Matteo does not take lightly with One News.
As both a member of the reserve force and a public figure, he occupies a unique position that allows him to bridge the gap between the military and the civilian public. Through storytelling, he hopes to foster greater appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members, many of whom quietly perform their duties without recognition.
One story that deeply affected him involved a soldier named General Alberto, whose family experienced unimaginable loss in the line of duty.
“Napaka-delicate ng mga kuwento,” Matteo explained. “I’m so thankful that the soldiers gave us the opportunity to tell their stories. Ang isang kwento rito ay si General Alberto, our commanding general of the Philippine Army seven years ago, he lost his son in battle. Captain Mark Alberto. We won’t forget the story of Mark. I told him, ‘We’ll make him live forever in the sacrifices that he did for the country.’”
These are the kinds of narratives that form the heart of “Patriots” — stories of resilience, bravery, grief and unwavering commitment to the nation.
The project also marks an important chapter in Matteo’s growing partnership with One News, one of the country’s most respected and credible news organizations. Known for its commitment to responsible journalism, in-depth reporting and balanced coverage, One News provides a platform where meaningful stories can be told with depth, accuracy and purpose, led by Patrick Paez.
The collaboration reflects Matteo’s desire to contribute to conversations that matter to the nation. Rather than simply entertaining audiences, he is now helping amplify stories that educate, inspire and encourage civic engagement.
His work ethic and pursuit of growth continue beyond the documentary as well.
This week, Matteo will travel to Boston to attend his graduation from a leadership executive course at Harvard University. The milestone adds another achievement to an already impressive resume and highlights his dedication to continuous learning and personal development.
For many public figures, balancing multiple responsibilities can be challenging. Yet Matteo appears determined to embrace every role with the same level of commitment and discipline — whether as a husband supporting his family, an actor pursuing his craft, a reservist serving his country, a producer creating content or a student investing in lifelong learning.
Perhaps that is what makes “Patriots” such a fitting project for him.
The documentary is ultimately about people who choose service over self, purpose over recognition and duty over comfort. Those same values have become recurring themes throughout Matteo’s own journey.
As he continues to wear many hats, Matteo remains focused on a simple but powerful goal: using his platform to tell stories that matter.
“Patriots,” hosted by Matteo Guidicelli, premieres tonight at 6 on One News and will soon air on One PH and TV5.
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