2023 did not end well for actor Rob Gomez after he unwittingly got involved in a controversy with co-stars Herlene Budol and Bianca Manalo. Now that it's 2024, he looks back at that incident as a "learning curve" and an inescapable part of being in showbiz.

“Natutunan ko, throughout my career in show business, that comeback has always been greater than the setback. I'm just grinding. I’m working out now, trying to get into the best shape of my life, get to the next level, and once again, try to prove myself," he told the entertainment press during the  10th anniversary of VP Global Management in Sheraton Manila.

After doing "Magandang Dilag," "Lovers/Liars," and "Shake, Rattle & Roll Extreme" in the last part of 2023, Rob is gearing up for big things this year that he doesn't want to name yet. "I have one (project) that I'm super excited about. We're going to shoot it very soon."

He says his relationship status is still "very complicated," which makes him want to focus on his career.

"I think this is the time to work. The time to find myself, maybe heal. I don’t want to sound like a victim because I do not want to pry on it. I don’t want anyone na maawa sa akin. I do not wish to share my problems with anyone," he pointed out.

The 26-year-old actor shared that he gets his inspiration from Amelia, his daughter with estranged partner Shaila Rebortera.

"She gives me so much fire, so much drive. I sometimes lose sense of what I'm doing, job-wise, mentally. And then I realize that she's alive. She's everything," Rob declared.

Showbiz runs in Rob's genes. His mom is former actress Kate Gomez, Gary Estrada is his uncle, and the late George Estregan was his grandfather. Rob recognizes that his lineage got him to where he is now, but it doesn't mean he does not need to work hard.

"I pray that the people I respect and who respect medo not forget what I stand for and what I can do in front of the camera," he remarked.

"Definitely.I cannot be humbled enough, down to my knees, to be so thankful that I'm still here. And I still have a chance to prove myself.I love my job. I love doing this. It's a different feeling. It's like a school for me. It's fun. I'm just so lucky that I get to do something I love. How manyare we that we get to say, Ilove my job?" Rob added.

Rob is just one of the hundreds of talents managed by VP Global Management, a joint venture between Dondon Monteverde and Charlie Dy. VP stands for Virtual Playground.

Among the celebrities in its stable are Brandon Vera, MJ Lastimosa, Ricci Rivero, James Yap, Jimmy Alapag, Monsour Del Rosario, Pauline Lopez, and Dan Fernandez, as well as a powerful line-up of volleyball and basketball players.

"Back in 2014, I told Dondon it’s about time our artists will have a home. That was how Virtual Playground started. As we reflect on our remarkable journey, it is our deepest gratitude to all the players, parents, coaches, team owners, and managers who placed their trust in us throughout the years. Their unwavering support in partnership has been the cornerstone of our success, and for that, we are truly grateful," CEO Charlie said in his opening speech.

"Withour rebranded identity, we are poised to explore new horizons, forge new partnerships and elevate our talents to unprecedented heights," he closed.