Filipino comic Jon Santos is a celebrated multimedia artist recognized for his theater, television, and film work. He is well-known for his sharp wit and ability to critique social issues through comedy.

With a career spanning over three decades, Jon has established himself as a significant figure in the Philippine entertainment industry.

Comedy fans are in for a special treat as the hilarious Jon Santos returns to the stage with his highly anticipated show, “Naughty & Nice: Jon Santos is Coming to Town!” which will be held at the Samsung Hall, SM Aura Premier, on Dec. 7 at 8 p.m.

Jon recalled his humble beginnings during a press conference held in Quezon City recently.

"I was doing monologues in the University of the Philippines cafeteria. I opened the show by portraying my mother (Zenaida)," he said.

Jon, 58, shared the qualities he seeks before impersonating a celebrity.

"You choose a character who has something to share," he said. "I look for the story and gaano siya nakatatak sa mga manonood. 

"Minsan kuhang-kuha mo ang impersonation ng isang celebrity pero hindi naman siya pasok sa awareness ng mga Pinoy. Hindi sila in sa current pop culture," he said.

Jon also considers the reference point and attitude of the celebrity when impersonating someone.

"Very loved and very hated. Very intriguing and very controversial. Dapat may ganun. There was a time ang daming humanga at naninira kay Senator Miriam (Defensor Santiago). So hindi talaga siya mawawala sa reference ng mga tao."

Jon expressed his gratitude for not facing criticism from the celebrities he impersonated.

"I was mentored well by Tessie (Tomas). She told me to do it in a way they would agree with me because imitation is the best form of flattery," he said.

Jon added: "I campaigned for Vilma (Santos-Recto) in her first political campaign. I shared a stage with her. Sobrang saya ko noon."

Once, Jon opened a number for Vilma's variety show. "Concept niya ito. After the opening song number, with me playing her, she went on stage, stopped the show, inaway ako at tinawag ang guard. Siya ang kinuha sa stage."

He also opened for The Sharon Cuneta show when the megastar had a fall during a movie premiere. 

Who could forget Jon, who also impersonated Philippine presidents Cory Aquino, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Fidel V. Ramos, Rodrigo Duterte, Noynoy Aquino, and Joseph Estrada?

"I played FVR in front of former President Ramos. I have played GMA in front of former President Cory and President Erap in front of him," Jon said. 

On Erap, Jon added: "Hinawakan pa niya costume ko kasi may unan. Sabi niya, 'Akala ko totoo. Niloloko mo naman ako eh. Nao-offend na ako eh. Minsan party ni Erap sa rest house niya in Tanay. Naka-house arrest siya noon."

However, opportunities later showed that he was capable of portraying himself effectively. "Pwede naman pala. It took me three decades to break away from that product, meaning the celebrity impersonation." And the rest is history.

In recent years, Jon has continued to perform in sold-out shows and engage with audiences through various media. 

Jon remains a cherished figure in the Philippine entertainment landscape, recognized for his humor, creativity, and dedication to his craft.

Caregiver to mom

Based in the US, Jon is in the country as a "caregiver to his mother.

"Right now, I'm in town for the role of a lifetime — isang butihing anak. I'm a caregiver kay mama sa tabi ng kanyang bed in Silang, Cavite," he said.

Jon also mentioned a health scare after his husband, West Stewart, had two heart surgeries. The Filipino actor has been in a relationship with West for 19 years, having been introduced by actress Tessie Tomas during a dinner.

"Patient number one is my husband, and patient number two is my darling. It's tough. Pabalik-balik ako sa US and the Philippines.

"After the health scare, noong nagkaroon ng surgery si mister, nagpa health exam na rin ako. Wala naman so far. Mga health reminders lang. I think laughter is still the best medicine," he said.

As a stand-up comedian, Jon is known for his energetic performances and skill in impersonating various personalities. He frequently addresses political and social issues, using humor to offer commentary and encourage reflection. His comedic style features a rapid-fire delivery and sharp observational humor.

Jon mentioned that he never grew tired of impersonating celebrities, but he was even more excited about performing stand-up comedy as himself.

"Yung pinag-uusapan ang Pasko, ang traffic. Stories of myself taking care of your spouse or hospital confinement. My mom is 85 so pwede rin sabihin ko kung ano na ang mga pinagdarasal n'ya ngayon or iniisip niya. My dad is a great example. At 85 is still athletic. Nagma-marathon pa siya. Inspiration ko rin siya," Jon also said.

"Naughty & Nice" will feature an impressive lineup of special guests, including the legendary OPM icons Apo Hiking Society, Ice Seguerra, and drag artist Viñas DeLuxe. 

The star-studded event, directed by Sweet Plantado-Tiongson and mounted by Ticket1 Concerts, aims to deliver a delightful blend of comedy and music that will resonate with audiences of all ages. 

Tickets for this much-anticipated event are available at SM Tickets and Ticket1 branches nationwide.