Jerald Napoles embraces ‘The New Pogi’ label

June 3 ------ Jerald Napoles may be one of the country’s most bankable comedy stars today, but the actor admits he is still getting used to being called “The New Pogi.”

The title was attached to Napoles during a recent press conference for his upcoming film “Love, Ngo,” a distinction that reflects his growing popularity as both a leading man and one-half of celebrity couple KimJe with wife Kim Molina. While many actors might eagerly embrace the label, Napoles accepted it with humility, saying he never imagined being regarded as a heartthrob.

“I’m not used to it because where I grew up, ‘pogi’ was just something we casually called people. It wasn’t something serious. So when people say ‘The New Pogi,’ I appreciate it because it means there are people who agree with it. And if there are people who don’t agree, I understand that, too. What matters to me is that people appreciate you,” Napoles said.

Known for his scene-stealing performances in films and television projects, Napoles has steadily built a career that extends far beyond comedy. From his roots in theater to starring roles in mainstream films, he has become one of the most recognizable and dependable actors of his generation. His film credits include “Ikaw at Ako ang Ending,” “Girlfriend Na Pwede Na,” “Instant Daddy,” “Seoulmeyt,” “Un-Ex You,” “Sampung Utos Kay Josh,” and “Wonderful Nightmare.”

For Napoles, however, attractiveness has less to do with physical appearance and more to do with self-assurance and authenticity. He said confidence comes from being comfortable with who you are rather than trying to meet other people’s expectations. “I feel most pogi when I don’t have anything to prove. When there’s no pressure, and I don’t feel like I have to impress anybody. For me, confidence is what makes a person attractive. That’s when I feel most comfortable in my own skin,” he said.

The actor also reflected on how standards of attractiveness have changed over the years. While conventional good looks once dominated the conversation, Napoles believes people today place greater value on talent, personality, and what an individual brings to the table. “Before, people had a very conventional idea of what being handsome meant. Now, people admire someone because of what they can do and how they excel. I think that’s what the ‘new pogi’ is. It’s not just about appearance,” he said.

The recognition is particularly meaningful for Napoles because of how unlikely he once thought his career path would be. Long before becoming a household name, he was simply a young dancer hoping for a chance to perform. “Thirty years ago, all I knew was that I wanted to perform because I was a dancer. I never imagined I would become an actor, much less be considered a leading man. That’s why I always say God is fair. Maybe I wasn’t given everything, but I was given enough talent and opportunities to get here,” he said.

Source: manilatimes.net