Batang Quiapo star Jake Cuenca’s career spans over two decades, and his dedication to his craft remains the same, even stronger. “I knew what I was doing right away. Like, I knew what I had to do. And what they wanted of me,” he affirmed about preparing for challenging roles. When scripts aren’t readily available, he relies heavily on immersion. “The best homework you can do is watch the show. So, I kept watching it,” Jake said. He sees acting as a delicate balance between technical skill and emotional depth, emphasizing, “You can only do your best. But production or ‘yung show really has to give you the opportunity.”
Reflecting on his evolution, he shared, “When you’re creating a dark character like that, when you’re younger, you wanna, parang kumbaga nadadala mo sa bahay yung role, or minsan, gusto mo patunayan sa sarili mo na ikaw talaga yun.” Today, he finds it easier to leave the character behind once the scene is done. “Mas madaling na para sa akin i-compartmentalize. Parang, pagka-cut nung nina-direct, it’s over,” Jake enthused.
Developing Characters and Embracing Methodology
A key aspect of Jake’s acting approach is self-awareness and meticulous preparation. “My personal journaling, it’s always, I’ll be honest with you, I did this even when I was in GMA. Kasi, when things are not going your way, when, you know, when things are not exactly turning out the way you want them to,” he explained. He calls this an emotional diary. “That’s the one thing. Well, aside from the many, the 12 steps that Ivana [Chubbuck] teaches, na that’s all effective, but for me, the emotional diary is very powerful.”
He describes his daily routine, “You start with your real thoughts, diba? And then you start to mix fiction and reality and then you start to write in your character. Then you’ll be surprised at things that come out.” This disciplined approach ensures he remains emotionally available. “It’s very, very regimented. I wake up at 5 in the morning every day. So I start na my day with that, the journaling. And then I usually, I read na my scripts,” he shared.
Jake’s commitment to consistency and emotional openness allows him to navigate complex roles effortlessly. He said, “You really have to be so seamless with everything.”
Growth, Challenges, and Industry Insights
Throughout his career, Jake continually adapts and learns from industry experiences. “I really work hard for this. Sometimes, taking these risks won’t equate to love right away,” he admits. The ups and downs fuel his motivation, “The bashing motivates me. Kaya ganun ka-intense yung mga sequences, diba? And then, the praises, diba, which I also take it, it inspires me.”
His personal growth is closely tied to his struggles with sobriety and overcoming setbacks. “The hard stop on the sobriety was really like, it really came at a time when I was really down. I went through my whole big breakup on TV. All those things,” he revealed. Despite challenges, he remains humble and committed to self-improvement, emphasizing, “I only have one day. Sunday to recharge. And then Monday to Monday, Wednesday, Friday, do Batang Quiapo.”
For Jake, the industry is a space of constant learning. “That’s how showbiz works. I say that I love the nature of the beast. There was a time na walang tsismis and the industry was plateauing. At the same time, when you search-engine my name right now, it’s viral everywhere. Whether it’s the LSS, the veneers, the performance, I do appreciate being talked about.”
Personal Life: Simplicity and Genuine Connections
Amidst his busy schedule, Jake treasures simple joys with his loved ones. He shares, “Chie? Yup, that’s all we do. Sabi ko, ako kasi parang, we’re both, pareho kaming homebody. Just like to be domesticated, spend time with the dogs.” His relationship with actress Chie Filomeno highlights the importance of mutual understanding and support. “Sometimes like the support she needs, especially when she has a big moment in an event or a red carpet or a dance, the best support I can give to her is to get out of the way and give her that moment,” Jake shared.
His grounded outlook reflects his appreciation for a peaceful, everyday life. “I’m really looking forward to my play,” he said, excited about upcoming projects. Jake emphasized that true happiness can be found in the quiet moments—“We’re just at home with our dogs and I’m so happy. And parang in a way, parang it gives you a sense of peace and solitude kasi you come from a set.” His perspective shows that even amid a high-profile career, staying connected to what truly matters keeps him grounded.
Fitness, Discipline, and Lifestyle
Jake’s commitment to maintaining his physical and mental health is evident in his daily routines. “This morning, well, I’m lifting weights again because I’m trying to put on a bit of weight,” he shares. Running is another favorite. “It’s also a form of, for me, it’s also a form of meditation,” he said. To make his workouts more enjoyable, he incorporates audiobooks into his runs, “Kasi I read a lot of books. So what I do is, may run partner is an audiobook. So I’ll go running for two hours kasi I’m enjoying an audiobook.”
His diet choices reflect his discipline. He shared, “I still don’t eat meat. You know, it’s been 10 years na I haven’t had meat. I don’t drink, diba? Definitely, I don’t drink alcohol, not a single drop.” He has successfully quit smoking, revealing, “I quit smoking long time ago. So I quit drinking for close to 5 years now. So if you’re smoking, I quit for almost 10.” Despite the physical toll of his roles, he manages to stay healthy, emphasizing, “Even with a busy schedule, I get to do my thing in the morning. I get to run, I get to study.”
For Jake, the secret lies in routine and enjoyment. “When you’re having fun doing things, then you really, you don’t feel it na parang, oh my God, nakakapagod ito,” he said. His healthy habits fuel his passion for acting and his desire to push boundaries.
Future Aspirations and Artistic Goals
Looking ahead, Jake is resolute about his journey. “Acting talaga. Like, I’ll never exchange acting for any other thing in the world,” he stated firmly. “This is what makes me happy talaga. Acting talaga—like, I live and die by this.” Though he’s interested in directing, his career focus remains rooted in acting. “I really want to be a good director,” he shared, “and I can produce if I wanted to.”
He’s constantly seeking growth through new experiences, explaining, “I’m living in it right now. Like, I’ll be honest with you, I’m living in that reality now with what I believe.” His ambitions include theater performances, film projects, and collaborations with artists he admires. “One day I hope I can do a movie like that where it’s just more natural and less dramatic. Mas chill,” he envisioned, eager for varied roles and opportunities.
Facing Rumors and Public Feedback
Jake remains candid about dealing with the scrutiny that comes with fame. “I challenge the person to bring a dentist, and then, diba, like, at least, find out the truth,” he boldly claimed regarding false allegations about his teeth. “Lahat ng content ginawa about it—the false ones—I challenge them to bring their dentist,” he added confidently. His honesty extends to personal habits and how he handles industry rumors, especially about his appearance. He addressed the issue head-on, “I can guarante my teeth are 100 percent my natural teeth, they really are. I’ve never worn braces in my life.”
When faced with criticism, he’s unyielding. “The hardest thing is to tell yourself that that person is dead and this is the new me,” he admitted, referring to his efforts to leave behind old lifestyles. “I respect myself for the new me. So that’s where I’m at.” Jake emphasized that, despite adversities, staying true to himself and his principles is most important.
The Heart of an Actor
Throughout his career, Jake Cuenca’s words paint a picture of someone who loves his craft and refuses to be defined by setbacks or controversies. “I love to go through all the emotions of being an actor. The highs and the lows,” he confessed. His commitment is evident. He continues to chase new challenges with clarity, “I always love to prove myself.” His story is one of dedication, resilience, and the continuous pursuit of excellence. As he sums it up, Jake Cuenca embodies an artist who deeply values his journey over fame or fleeting success. His love for acting fuels his rdrive to improve, embrace new roles, and push creative boundaries. Whether discussing his preparation, dealing with industry challenges, or carving out a balanced personal life, his words reveal a man who is committed to growth — both as an actor and as an individual.
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