by Ralf Jun Tilasa
In the pursuit of expanding his creative expression after finding success in the music scene, Cup of Joe’s (COJ) lead vocalist, Gian Bernardino, has set his sight on a new spotlight beyond concert venues.
During the press conference held recently, Gian signed a solo artist management contract with VIVA Artist Agency (VAA) and movie contract with VIVA Films, pursuing his first love by bringing his talents not only on the concert stages, but also to the silver screens.
“First love ko talaga ang film in its essence. I think it’s every child’s dream na makita ang sarili nila sa TV,” he shared. “Even before I discover na gusto ko maging performer, gusto ko rin maging artista.
Gian is far from estranged from the film industry, as he has previously showcased his acting skills through various series and film projects such as Quaranthings: The Series (2021), the short films Kubli (2022) and Microplastics (2023), and music videos for Bagong Buwan by drag queen J-Quinn and Sino ang Tanga by singer-actress Maris Racal.
His acting breakthrough marked a significant milestone in his career highlighting his versatility as a performer beyond music. While Gian has already established his presence in the music landscape as a member of COJ, this defining moment in his career will allow him to further put his range and depth to display. By navigating both the music and film industry, he continues to prove that his talents extend beyond the stage, solidifying his place as a full-rounder performer.
More than just being COJ’s lead vocalist and actor, Gian is also a passionate advocate of mental health. If given the opportunity, he hopes to bring that advocacy to the big screen by starring in a film inspired by one his band’s track, Bubog, highlighting the mental health struggles many individuals face and fuel meaningful conversations about the issue.
“Bubog is a song na puwedeng ma-interpret nang sobrang lawak,” Gian explained. “Maganda rin magkaroon ng film about sa struggles mentally. Maganda rin magkaroon ng focus na ganoon ‘yong context.”
Additionally, he also admitted that being introduced without his bandmates has been entirely a new experience that he considered a personal challenge he needed to conquer. Still, he is grateful for their unwavering support, which has given him the confidence to embrace the fresh chapter that awaits him. With both excitement and touch of fear, he is ready to step forward on his own.
“Every step forward from this moment, sobrang na-eexcite ako, but at the same time I’m scared pero it’s something I’ve been training myself for a while,” he expressed. “Risking is always better than regretting.
Written by Ralf Jun Tilasa, a Communication and Media Studies at the University of the Philippines – Visayas.