Jake Zyrus Reveals the Truth Behind His Finances

JAKE ZYRUS – The singer formerly known as Charice Pempengco opened up about his struggles with financial independence in his book I Am Jake. He revealed that despite earning millions during his peak years as an international singer, he had no control over his own money.

Jake shared that it was only when he met his accountant that he realized how much he had been making from tours, private events, and endorsements. At one point, his net worth reached $16 million (approximately ₱927 million). However, despite this wealth, he never truly experienced financial freedom.

According to Jake, while he saw houses being built and cars being bought with his earnings, they were never under his name. He was often told that these assets did not belong to him. Even when he wanted to use a car, he had to ask permission from his mother, Raquel Pempengco, who sometimes denied his requests.

Now, as Jake Zyrus, he believes he is “richer” than Charice—not because of money, but because he finally has control over his own life. For the first time, he owns a house and a car that he can use freely.

As of now, Raquel Pempengco has not responded to the claims made in Jake’s book.

Meanwhile, Jake Zyrus, formerly known as Charice Pempengco, is a singer and television personality. He rose to fame after his viral YouTube performances led to appearances on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and The Oprah Winfrey Show in the late 2000s. He was praised by international stars like Celine Dion, Andrea Bocelli, and David Foster.

His 2010 album Charice made him the first Asian solo singer to enter the Billboard 200 Top 10. His song Pyramid (featuring Iyaz) became a global hit. He also appeared in Glee as Sunshine Corazon and served as a judge on The X Factor Philippines in 2012.

In 2017, he came out as a transgender man and changed his name to Jake Zyrus, discontinuing the use of “Charice.” Since then, he has continued his music career while embracing his true identity.