But behind his success are also the intrigues, rumors and challenges he’s battling, both past and present. His break-up with actress KC Concepcion was subject to much speculation, as well as his sexuality. From the parting of his tandem with actress Judy Ann Santos to letting his son Iñigo enter the business, he’s been through quite a lot. 

Now for the first time on television, Piolo is allowing the cameras into his private life as E! News presents an Asian Special on the country’s formidable leading man. 

For many days, the cameras documented Piolo’s every move – from shooting the movie, his work in ABS-CBN, spending time with his son to his other daily activities. Interviews with some of his co-stars and family members are also included in the documentary.

Why Piolo?

In a press release, Christine Fellowes, Managing Director of Universal Networks International, Asia Pacific said that Piolo is perfect for their next feature after Anne Curtis and the Gutierrez family.

“A household name in the Philippines, Piolo’s personality, gravitas, and compelling life story are a perfect fit for E!,” she said.

Known to keep mum about his personal life, Piolo said he decided to open up because he has nothing to expect.

“I just went for it. I don’t know what to expect. I said a mouthful, I don’t know what is going to come out. Let us just see. But I did it anyway because what is there to hide. What else could I share? I guess there are just some things that they want to know more about me from their research and so I just answered,” Piolo told reporters during the formal announcement of the E! Special last July 31.

A trailer of the show premiering September was shown to the press. Piolo said he has not seen the edited documentary, so he does not know what his co-stars and family said about him. 

The often guarded Piolo also shared some sentiments with the press about his son Iñigo, whom he informed has made it to the boy band auditions.

“I guess it’s being present, not physically but in every decision he has to make. You’re always available and always keep that line open and I guess that he’s growing, we’re able to level with each other,” the actor said about bringing up his son.

Although he has requested the press not to interview Iñigo for the time being, he admitted to being surprised when he saw his video clip at the FAMAS Awards.

“I was definitely more surprised to see that he was definitely comfortable than uncomfortable doing this kind of stuff…and when the Sunlife offer came along, he was so comfortable doing the scene. I guess its in the blood, you got to let him be.”

He also said that he lets Iñigo be independent, allowing him to make his decisions.

“I cannot shelter him. If you try to protect him, how will he learn? ’Cause that’s how you learn, through your own mistakes,” he said.

“At least when you fall, there’s a reason for you to get up, be a better person, and become wiser.”  

Going international

Although he has said that he’s extremely satisfied with his career, Piolo is not closing his doors to the prospects of going international once the show airs.  Asked if there is a pressure on being the second solo Filipino to be featured on E!, Piolo said it is “more than the pressure, its a privilege.”

“As long as I have time for it… this is what I do. If there are doors that open, those are opportunities so why not.”

No word yet if he will be promoting the show in the region, but Piolo said he is scheduled to go to Singapore in September.

As for his much talked about love life, Piolo said that time will come when he will prioritize family.  For now, it is all about work. But given a chance to meet the girl of his dreams, for as long as she is herself, that is all that matters.

As for his other dream, the actor said he still wants to explore the world.

“I want to go to South Africa. I want to go to Antarctica, go to so many places. I want to be in Europe for a couple of months. Go to Egypt… I love going around.”  – Rappler.com

E! News Asia Special: Piolo Pascual premieres on September 28, 9pm on E!