ACTOR Jake Cuenca describes 2025 as pivotal in his career. From his work in “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” to the set to be released “What Lies Beneath,” the 37-year-old Star Magic artist says he’s entering a new phase—not just professionally but personally as well.
“It’s been an amazing year,” Jake said in a Star Magic Spotlight interview. “But there’s still so much work to be done. It feels like a long road ahead and I’m just staying focused and positive.”
Jake, who has been in the industry for over two decades, is candid about the evolution of his craft. Working alongside respected actors such as Albert Martinez, Christopher de Leon and Dante Rivero in “Batang Quiapo” has been a turning point. For him, the experience has less to do with pressure and more to do with opportunity.
“Being on set with people I look up to — it’s like a dream,” he said. “It doesn’t feel like pressure anymore. After 23 years, things still feel new and I’m really enjoying myself.”
Jek attributes much of this renewed energy and clarity to sobriety. Now almost five years sober, he spoke openly about his journey, proudly stating that he never attended rehab but chose instead to confront the issue on his own.
“It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” he said. “There’s no one to blame for how things were except myself and I take accountability for that. I’m proud I did it alone, with help from my mom and the willingness to face myself.”
Temptations exist but for Jake: “I wouldn’t touch alcohol even if you pay me.”
Having a partner who occasionally drinks does not pose a problem for the actor. He said he’s the not type to forbid someone to indulge. “Minsan ako pa nag pu-push sa kanya. Relax and live a little bit.”
He said sobriety has impacted every aspect of his life — relationships, career and mindset. Without alcohol, he’s been able to immerse himself more fully in his roles and projects. A recent example includes spending several months inside a jail cell as preparation for a role — something he says would’ve been difficult to commit to in his party days.
Jake also reflected on the entertainment industry’s changing work culture, particularly in light of the Eddie Garcia Law, which imposes strict working conditions for TV and film productions. He credits this shift with improving the quality of output and making work environments more sustainable.
“It’s not just about speed anymore. It’s about doing things right,” he said.
Another reason for his balance is having the right partner. Jake describes his relationship with actress Chie Filomeno as one of mutual understanding and respect. Having someone who understands both the demands of show business and his personal growth has made a huge effect in his life.
“I’ve never had this kind of support before,” he said. “She gets it — she understands what I go through, even during intense projects. That’s rare.”
Does he see Chie in his future?
“She definitely has my undivided attention,” said Jake, “Wala na akong hahanapin pa sa isang babae talaga kasi she’s so nice and at the same time naiintindihan niya ako. She gets me. For the first time, I really mean that, naiintindihan ako ng tao. In the past, they kinda understand me.”
Asked what advice he would give to others facing similar personal demons, Cuenca kept it simple: “Just say no. Respect yourself a lot more. Respect you dreams, your goals, your manifestations. Lahat may kapalit ‘yan…
“If you are able to quit it – there is no turning back.”
Though open about the ill effects of alcohol — including brushes with the law and public incidents related to drinking —Jake is clear that those chapters are behind him. He said sobriety gave him back control of his focus and purpose.
“I don’t chase distractions anymore. I don’t waste time… For me, I feel like time is the most precious and if you’re smart with it, you can use it to your advantage for your dreams.
“I understand that you can only be good in so many things. I’m trying to be the best actor I can be, but I am also trying to be the best boyfriend, the best son. If I can do right by the people that I love and the people in showbiz because of my career, but most especially do right by my family, I think that’s a happy life. What do I need more than that?”
