⭐️GREEN FLAG
The internet has turned the phrase green flag into one of the highest compliments someone can receive. It describes the kind of person who is respectful, emotionally mature, dependable, and relationship material. But does being a green flag really mean being perfect?
Not at all.
The best people aren't flawless—they're simply willing to grow. They lead with kindness, stay true to their values, and make the people around them feel seen. Those are the qualities that matter long after first impressions fade.
For this issue of COOL, we meet two of Empire/Mercator's rising stars who are proving that character is just as attractive as confidence. Marco Gloria has become one of the country's fastest-rising content creators, while Felipe Marasigan is set to represent the Philippines on the international stage as Mister Supranational this month. Different careers, different journeys—but remarkably similar values.
Staying Grounded in the Spotlight
Helpful. Adaptable. Curious. Those are the three words Marco Gloria uses to describe himself—and they perfectly capture the personality behind the viral videos.
Born and raised in Apalit, Pampanga, Marco graduated from La Verdad Christian College, where he once competed in Editorial Cartooning, proving that creativity has always been part of who he is. Off-camera, you'll most likely find him shooting hoops, rewatching Stranger Things or an episode of Tom and Jerry, grabbing fried chicken with milk tea, or making sure he never leaves home without his phone, handkerchief, and trusty power bank.
With a growing online following and millions of views across social media, Marco has built a career by simply being himself. Yet away from the camera, he insists he's far more reserved than people expect.
"I'm actually a shy person, especially when meeting new people," he admits.
Raised with strong faith and family values, Marco says his biggest dream isn't simply to become more successful online. It's to continue growing, make his family proud, and use every opportunity that God gives him wisely.
That perspective shapes everything—from the way he interacts with supporters to what he looks for in a relationship.
For Marco, the biggest green flag is someone who loves God, respects others, and stays true to themselves. Faithfulness, kindness, and putting God first aren't just qualities he admires in a partner—they're values he strives to live by every day.
Despite living much of his life online, it's never extravagant gestures that leave the biggest impression. A simple check-in asking how he's doing or spending uninterrupted quality time means far more than grand surprises.
The compliment he treasures most isn't about his looks or popularity, but hearing from followers that he inspires them to stay positive. And when asked how he hopes people remember him, his answer is simple: someone who treated people with kindness, stayed humble, and lived for God.
Character Over Titles
Tall. Kind. Masipag. Felipe Marasigan doesn't need many words to describe himself.
Growing up between Fremont, California, and Tiaong, Quezon, Felipe built his life around education, athletics, and discipline. He earned a Business Intelligence Analytics degree from De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde after previously studying Human Development Studies and Kinesiology at Ohlone College in California—a reminder that his journey has always extended beyond sports and pageantry.
Basketball and handball became natural outlets for his competitive spirit, leading him to compete in the MPBL, represent the Philippines in the 2025 SEA Games, and qualify for the 2026 Asian Beach Games. This month, another milestone awaits as he takes the international stage representing the Philippines at Mister Supranational.
Away from training, Felipe keeps things surprisingly simple. He's happy eating chicken, still considers Avatar: The Last Airbender one of the greatest animated series ever made, names Static Shock as his favorite superhero, and admits he can never leave the house without his keys, phone, and wallet. His hidden talent? Juggling.
Yet for all the titles and achievements, Felipe's biggest dream remains deeply personal: giving his family a better life.
It's the same grounded mindset that shapes how he defines a healthy relationship. Communication, he says, isn't just about talking—it's about listening, understanding, and making another person feel heard. Empathy, consideration, and respect are the qualities he believes every great boyfriend should possess.
When asked about his biggest green flag, his answer is just as straightforward: being considerate of others.
Ironically, his favorite compliment has nothing to do with his athleticism or appearance. Being told that he's kind means the most because, to him, it reflects the values passed down by the people who raised him.
He hopes people see beyond the photos and recognize the hard work, discipline, and perseverance behind every accomplishment.
More Than Just a Green Flag
On paper, Marco Gloria and Felipe Marasigan couldn't be more different. One found his audience through social media, while the other continues to make his mark through sports and the international pageant stage.
But spend a few minutes talking to them, and the similarities become impossible to miss.
Both invested in their education before pursuing careers in the spotlight. Both put family at the center of their ambitions. Both believe kindness is a strength, not a weakness. And both understand that becoming a better person is a lifelong commitment.
Maybe that's the real definition of a green flag.
Not someone who's perfect, but someone who chooses humility over ego, consistency over performance, and genuine character over carefully curated appearances.
Because in the end, the most attractive quality isn't perfection.
It's becoming a better person every single day.
Photography: Irah Umlas
Styling: Yeoh Egwaras
Associate Stylist: Clint Tee/Aldz Payapag/Jonas Amillar
Grooming: Lars Cabanacan
Shoot Associate: Royd Loyola
