Jhong Hilario: “Hindi ka habang-buhay artista…”

Jhong Hilario's masters degree graduation
It’s Showtime host Jhong Hilario is driven to complete his master’s degree in Public Administration at World Citi College, saying, “Hanggang kailan ba ko sa pag-aartista? Maganda na rin siguro na may bala ka. If ever na may opportunity na maibigay sa akin bilang public servant at least naka-ready ka.”



PHOTO/S: MJ Felipe / ABS-CBN News

It’s Showtime host Jhong Hilario marked another significant milestone in his llife.

On Thursday, August 29, 2024, Jhong obtained his master’s degree in Public Administration from the World Citi College during a commencement ceremony at the PICC Plenary Hall in Pasay City.

Jhong Hilario with wife
Jhong Hilario with wife Maia Azores during his graduation on August 29, 2024. 

Photo/s: MJ Felipe / ABS-CBN News

In an interview with MJ Felipe of ABS-CBN News after the ceremony, Jhong shared that he completed his graduate studies in one year despite facing many challenges.

Recalling his journey, he said, “I took one year. It’s a modular program. Ipapadala sa iyo yung mga modules, and then you have to research the books that you’ll read.

“‘Yung iba, kung saan-saan pa namin hinanap iyung mga libro. Yung mga sacrifices, yung minsan bising-busy, and siyempre hindi naman biro ang masteral din.

“Plus yung mga ginagawa pa natin bilang konsehal at artista rin, ang sa akin lang hangga’t nandiyan, hanggang may opportunity go lang nang go.”

All his efforts paid off as he also earned the “highest merits” for his master’s program.

The TV host/actor remarked, “Bonus na ito. Maka-graduate lang ako.”

Jhong was driven to complete his master’s degree, clearly understanding that a showbiz career is fleeting while education is everlasting.

He told ABS-CBN News, “Hanggang kailan ba ko sa pag-aartista? Maganda na rin siguro na may bala ka.

“Hindi ka habang-buhay artista, if ever na may opportunity na maibigay sa akin bilang public servant at least naka-ready ka.”

For all his academic success, Jhong made it clear he was not eyeing a higher position in the next elections.

However, he added, “I’m just ready lang, if ever na kailangan ako sa ganito o sa ganyan.”

CONGRATULATIONS, JHONG HILARIO!

Jhong celebrated his recent academic achievement with his mother, Nanay Nelly; his partner, Maia Azores; his daughter, Sarina.

Maia shared a family photo from Jhong’s graduation on Sarina’s Instagram profile, along with clips of their daughter.

In the caption, Maia wrote, “We are so proud of you, Daddy @jhonghilario [emoji] Masters in Public Administration with Highest Merit, World Citi Colleges [emojis]”

The comments section of the post was flooded with congratulatory messages.

Among those who sent their congratulations to Jhong were Ogie Alcasid, Gladys Reyes, and Ruby Ruiz, along with many others.

Jhong Hilario comments
Photo/s: Screengrab from Instagram
Jhong Hilario comments
Photo/s: Screengrab from Instagram
Jhong Hilario comments
Photo/s: Screengrab from Instagram