🏈CIAO JOHN WAYNE ALBA!

In this Month of Love, what’s more romantic than a man shaped by two worlds? John Wayne Alba born Filipino, rooted in Manila soul, and culturally enticed by Italian roots; carries a kind of quiet poetry wherever he goes. At just 22, he represents more than good looks and global movement. He’s proof that identity can be layered, that ambition can travel, and that staying real is the coolest flex of all.

Signed with Empire Mercator, moreno and unapologetic, John Wayne moves with intention. There’s discipline in his walk, warmth in his smile, and a groundedness that feels rare in an industry obsessed with perfection. He doesn’t try to be flawless; he chooses to be real.

CIAO!

Before the runways and travel stamps, there were school courts. Sports shaped John Wayne early; not in a straight line, but in fragments that taught him resilience. He trained in judo for a year, played football for five, and joined school basketball for another. Financial limits meant stopping and starting, never fully committing to just one discipline. What could’ve felt like failure became fuel. “I always talked about goals but never achieved them before,” he admits. “That’s what pushed me mentally to stay disciplined and consistent now.”

SPETTACOLO

At 20, that discipline took him somewhere unreal: representing the Philippines on a global stage. Pride came first with deep, undeniable pride in being Filipino; followed closely by fear. It was his first time, and the nerves were loud. But he showed up anyway.

John Wayne is competitive, no doubt. But not the isolating kind. In pageants and competitions, he keeps one rule non-negotiable: be himself. He thrives on shared experiences; making friends, building memories, and making sure everyone feels included. It’s varsity captain energy, minus the ego. Winning matters, but connection lasts longer. If a new competition pops up? He’s game. Volleyball. Boxing. Calisthenics. He’ll step in, give his best, and let the results speak.

BUONGIORNO

His routine is refreshingly real. Mornings start with black coffee. Then movement; basketball runs or long walks. Afternoons are for the gym. Travel disrupts everything, but he adapts instead of forcing structure. Same goes for skincare. Blessed with good genes (grazie Mom and Dad), he keeps things simple and manages mild dermatitis with care.

MORENO

John Wayne didn’t always feel comfortable in his skin. Growing up, he faced bullying for being different in school. But over time, he reframed the narrative. “This is something you can’t change,” he says. “So you have to be proud of it.”

Now, his skin is a statement; one that carries culture and confidence. To young Filipinos, his message is clear: your natural skin tone is a mark of identity. Wear it proudly. It represents you, and it represents where you’re from.

FAMILIA

With a mom from Laguna and a dad from Bicol, John Wayne grew up surrounded by lessons that mattered; respect, honesty, and the meaning of true family. Though his parents separated and he was raised by his mom and grandparents, those values stayed firm.

When he’s abroad, what does he miss most? Everything.

The food — especially tocino. The beaches. The COOLTURE. And karaoke, always karaoke.

MI PIACE

John Wayne’s personal style leans classic — old money silhouettes, timeless fits, and a growing interest in watches. Clean, understated, intentional.

On repeat in his playlist? Bad Bunny — until Bruno Mars drops the full album. He’s waiting patiently.

And when he needs comfort, he turns to Spider-Man: No Way Home; a movie he’ll watch forever because it brings back the kid inside him. The one who believed in second chances and heroic comebacks.

With all the modeling, travel, and attention, John Wayne stays anchored by one thought: why he started. He remembers leaving family behind to chase a dream; and that memory keeps him focused. This Month of Love, romance looks like roots, family, and staying true. And John Wayne Alba? He wears all three effortlessly. #CoolisinSession #CoolBurnBook

Photography: Rxandy Capinpin

Styling: Kianna Rodolfo/Seanel Bersonda

Grooming: Lars Cabanacan