"Dekada ‘70." "Ang Huling El Bimbo." "The Adventures of Zsazsa Zaturnnah." "Rak of Aegis." These are some of the stage plays that made Phi Palmos an esteemed name in the local theater scene. He was also a Best Supporting Actor nominee for the film "Sila-Sila," and part of the cast of Metro Manila Film Festival Best Picture "Walang Forever" and Sinag Maynila Film Festival winner "Sa Akin ang Korona."

For someone who has received quite a number of outstanding acting reviews and citations, Phil Palmos never imagined himself to become an actor until after college.In fact, he considers himself an “accidental actor”. But these recognitions are just part of what defines Phi as a person.
Unknown to many, the foundation of who he is asan actor, singer, writer, advocate, son and friend was an award that he received back in high school.

Phi unabashedly admits growing up to a modest lifestyle with his family, as well as being an “average” student in school – academically. Perhaps owing to his supportive parents and a happy home, he was a ball of sunshine to everyone he encounters in school. He loves singing without much prodding from anyone, prompting his teachers to assign him as leader in school performances and competitions.

“I thrive in performing,and those are the activities I am drawn to.I knew that the stage was my playground. I feel safe and at-home whenever I perform,” Phi reminisces.

There were even times when the teachers didn’t even have to assign him to lead certain activities. He would volunteer himself at the drop of a hat. Not that his classmates would mind, because Phi is just the type of person you would love to have in your team if only because of the positive energy he brings. Because of this good vibe, his group would go on to win every single competition during their final year in high school.

It was this kind of leadership and positive influence on his schoolmates that pushed Phi’s teachers to nominate him for the National Discipline Award of the AY Foundation, Inc. (AYF) – an organization affiliated with the Yuchengco Group of Companies.

Every year, the Award recognizes graduating high school students from across the country who possess character traits of self-sacrifice, courage, integrity, and discipline – all of which Phi still embodies until today. The NDA, according to Phi, is a highly coveted award among high school students.

“Akala ko lang I’m the pambansang barkada. But when it was given to me, I knew I’ve done something right. Simula nang naging awardee ako, active ako until now,” Phi shares, adding that he has created a special bond of friendship with fellow awardees. “I considered that as my very first milestone.”

AY Foundation Chairperson Helen Y. Dee, daughter of Ambassador Alfonso T. Yuchengco, affirms the significance of the NDA to the Filipino youth.

“My father built this Foundation, believing in his heart that quality education sets the tone for our youth’s future. With this NDA, we want to honor this belief by encouraging our awardees to pass on their gift of leadership so they may inspire others,” Ms. Dee says.

Being active is an understatement, because Phi is currently juggling his time as the artistic director for AYF’s NDA Theater Camp, associate artistic director of independent vocal ensemble OperaJuan, and part-time teacher of Art Appreciation in his alma mater, Universidad de Manila. He is also presently affiliated with the council of rectors of the De La Salle Days With the Lord. All of these, on top of what he does as theater performer, writer and advocate.

Even the pandemic did not stop Phi from doing what he does best. He was part of the world’s first ever virtual theater festival, the Virgin Labfest, as well as in the livestreaming of the musical Ang Huling El Bimbo.A new movie that they filmed in September will be premiered this November.

Phi will always cherish how his family has supported him throughout his journey from being a vibrant student to becoming a consummate professional. With all the blessings that continue to come into his life, Phi would look back to his inspiring beginning to keep himself grounded. Bible studies at Church School, outreach activities at orphanages, speaking and hosting engagements for LGBT community, and continuous support to HIV awareness complete his past and present.

“These are the moments that made me experience face to face how I am so lucky and privileged to be able to do the things that I do. To have shelter and to be able to go to school. To always check my privilege. To show empathy. To be understanding and kind,” Phi concludes.