Vlad Bunoan

Talent manager John Rey Malto bets on these 7 rising artists

Article (news)

Josh Mercado

John Rey Malto has quietly made a name for himself as a talent manager who values longevity and sustained growth over instant fame in the entertainment industry, which is frequently driven by fleeting trends and self-promotion. By focusing on discipline, education, and professional growth, Malto, who works mostly behind the scenes, has been instrumental in influencing the careers of up-and-coming Filipino artists.Malto&#x27;s career in show business started out of the spotlight. He has a degree in olitical science and has also studied education and received photography and event management training. This broad intellectual background has influenced his planned approach to artist development, which blends professionalism and creativity.Before completely committing to talent management, Malto worked as a television researcher and production assistant, where he learned the subtleties of show development, production, and marketing. These experiences gave him a broad grasp of the entertainment industry beyond performing, which he now shares with the artists he trains.<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1771803387803image0.jpeg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/>John Rey Malto with his talents. Handout His noteworthy mentees include vocalist Joice Espinoza, who gained national exposure as a daily winner on It&#x27;s Showtime’s Tawag Ng Tanghalan in 2023. Espinoza&#x27;s original song “Pangako Mo,” penned by Malto, received online notice and industry acclaim, emphasizing his dual role as mentor and songwriter.</div>He emphasized that true success is rooted in “preparation, perseverance, and personal growth rather than public recognition.”“I always tell my talents that fame is temporary if it isn’t built on a strong foundation,” Malto added. “Education, discipline, and patience will take you further than instant popularity ever could.”Malto has mentored a new generation of Pinoy artists participating in Viva&#x27;s Next Big Star. These are:* Aira Lougee Neyra, also known professionally as Lougee Neyra, has acted in the films &quot;One Hit Wonder&quot; (2025) and &quot;Boy Tokwa: Lodi ng Gapo&quot; (2019).* Beah Bianca Billena, also known as Beah Bianca, is a media personality and model who has appeared on ABS-CBN&#x27;s “It&#x27;s Showtime” as Sexy Babe of the Day and as a weekly finalist.* Dricxs De Guzman is a versatile actor who has been in ABS-CBN&#x27;s &quot;Sins of the Father&quot; and Netflix&#x27;s &quot;Kontrabida Academy.&quot; He is inspired by Joshua Garcia and Kathryn Bernardo and aspires to play big roles in television and movies.* Inori Tashiro, a Japanese-born Filipino actress and social media personality, is known for her versatility and commanding screen presence.* Jhamil Gacela is a young artist who specializes in acting, singing, and dance. He has gained confidence and discipline through workshops and television appearances. Kal-El Clark Limpin, also known as Clark Limping, is a content creator and performer noted for his sincerity, variety, and passion.* Kurt Ceejay Napay, also known as Kurt Napay, is an actor, model, and commercial talent with an extensive portfolio that includes campaigns for a variety of brands.Despite his expanding recognition, Malto remains committed to developing artists who are not only excellent performers but also grounded individuals, demonstrating that having a real impact in the Philippine showbiz does not always involve being in the spotlight.

Talent manager John Rey Malto has mentored a new generation of Pinoy artists participating in Viva's Next Big Star.

Talent manager John Rey Malto has mentored a new generation of Pinoy artists participating in Viva's Next Big Star.