📓CALIX ESGUERRA

Some people make a first impression. Calix Esguerra likes making a second one.

"I thought you were intimidating."

Apparently, he hears that a lot. People often mistake his quiet nature for being snobby, but give him a little time and the conversation usually takes off. Funny memes, meaningful chats, celebrating other people's wins—those are the things that bring out his real personality.

At just 18, the Stellar Talent Circuit talent is building a résumé that stretches from modeling and pageantry to acting, all while staying grounded by one simple mindset: progress over perfection.

It's the kind of motto that shows up everywhere in his life.

Before every shoot, he's already done the homework: enough sleep, plenty of water, skincare, mood board review, and a quick run-through of poses before stepping in front of the camera. His favorite shoot so far? His COOL Magazine editorial with Rxandy, which pushed him to explore a side of himself he hadn't shown before.

The same mindset followed him onto his very first runway. The nerves were real, the butterflies unavoidable—but once he took that first walk, everything clicked. Confidence, he learned, isn't something you wait for. It's something you build.

Off the clock, Calix isn't chasing anything extravagant. His ideal day is surprisingly low-key: sleeping in, grabbing good food, watching movies or playing games, then spending time with his girlfriend, family, and friends. If fried chicken, rice, and an ice-cold soft drink happen to be involved? Even better.

His personal style follows the same philosophy: clean, minimal, and easy to wear. Think neutral colors, timeless staples, and clothes that don't try too hard. It's no surprise he'd happily raid Brent Manalo's closet—a wardrobe that's equal parts polished and effortless.

One thing people might not expect? He picks up choreography and runway routines ridiculously fast. It's a skill that's come in handy as he continues balancing fashion, pageants, and acting.

Speaking of pageants, Calix doesn't see the crown as the finish line. For him, it's a responsibility. If given the platform, he'd champion youth empowerment by encouraging confidence, education, and mental well-being—proof that kindness and consistency can take you just as far as talent.

His acting bucket list is equally ambitious. Emotional dramas. Action roles. Characters with complicated arcs who surprise people by the end. (Maybe there's a pattern here.)

Even his workouts have a purpose. Upper-body strength sessions help him stay ready for castings, shoots, pageants, and whatever opportunity comes next. And yes, he absolutely believes in cheat meals. Burgers, fries, pizza—the classics all have a place, as long as balance stays on the menu.

If his life had a title card, it'd read One Step at a Time.

Honestly? It fits.

Because Calix isn't in a rush to become someone else. He's focused on becoming a little better than yesterday—and judging by the momentum he's building, those small steps are adding up to something much bigger.

Burn Book Verdict: Quiet at first. Driven always. Never underestimate the guy who's too busy improving to announce it. #CoolBurnBook #CoolisinSession

Photography: Rxandy Capinpin

Grooming: Lars Cabanacan

Dental: Buencamino Dental Specialist

Skin: Jewel Aesthetics Solutions

Styling Associate: Aldz Payapag and Gab Tagala

Shoot Associate: Royd Loyola

Special Thanks to: Ryan Rye of Stellar Talent Circuit