The best is yet to come for Derrick Monasterio
HOT, handsome and hunky GMA leading man Derrick Monasterio finally gets his first-ever top male lead role in a TV series and we say that this is long overdue. This dream of his finally came true when the media giant, where he is exclusively signed, offered him its newest afternoon show that began airing this week, Return to Paradise.
“I was very surprised when the call came in that I will finally be the leading man in a new show. After I put the phone down, I uttered a silent prayer of thanksgiving for this wonderful, wonderful break,” he shared during a recent chat.
Monasterio admitted that he had been secretly praying for a lead role all these years, and he simply believed that his prayer would be granted. “All in God’s perfect time,” he told us.
Prior to starting work for this new series about two young dreamers with complicated family backgrounds brought together by fate when they survive a plane crash and get marooned on a beautiful island, Monasterio made sure that he never missed a workout session and focused on every body part that needs to be addressed.
“I was told early on that we would be shooting our scenes out of town where there were beaches, and you know what that means and requires,” he volunteered.
But whether he is preparing for a role or not, Monasterio is one our few celebrities who takes fitness very seriously and gets into his exercise regimen consistently. He affirmed that working out regularly has become not only an activity but a lifestyle.
“I started going to the gym quite early, when I was around 17, and I haven’t stopped or gotten tired. Working out also builds my confidence and fine-tunes my personality, too. But my main goal is to be fit and healthy, and be at the best shape for my age.”
At a time when physical and mental health are both on top of everyone’s priority list, it is wonderful to know that celebrities like Monasterio continue to inspire.
“Being fit is not only about muscles or showing off ripped bodies. It is first and foremost about staying healthy. These are certainly different times, especially when the pandemic hit hard and all of a sudden, threats to healthy living are everywhere. Mental health is also very important, not to be neglected. There are a lot of triggers nowadays and depression and anxiety have become more and more prevalent, especially among the younger generation. This is why we have to always look after ourselves and be always on guard,” he said.
Monasterio also stressed the importance of eating healthy and getting enough sleep and rest. “What we eat and consume will manifest on the outside. How we shape our thoughts will show in our actions— are we always grouchy and negative, or calm and slow to anger? We also should rest and sleep well. Even muscles need to relax and recuperate after a strenuous workout.”
Derrick Monasterio turned 22 on the same day Return to Paradise debuted on the solid afternoon block of GMA and he feels the best is yet to come.
“I know that it will be an amazing year, and I am just thankful for the many wonderful blessings coming my way. I am claiming success, health and happiness!”