For Michael V, success didn’t come easy. Growing up in a humble household, he worked his way to becoming one of the most recognized comedy icons in the Philippines. But despite his success, he refuses to let his kids take their privileged life for granted.
“I always tell my children na they are not rich. Your parents are, but you are not,” he says.
While many successful parents want to give their children everything they never had, Michael V takes a different approach—one that prioritizes financial independence over comfort.
“Alam mo yung usual na feeling ng mga magulang na, ‘Hindi ko ipapa-experience sa mga anak ko yung hirap na naranasan ko,’ so I will give them everything they need as much as I could,” he shares.
But then reality hit—was he setting them up for success or dependence?
“Kaya lang, it comes to a point na, ‘Teka, ganyan na lang ba ang gusto nyo? Wala na kayong ambisyon?’”
That realization led him to instill ambition and self-sufficiency in his children, ensuring they learn how to make their own money and build a future for themselves.
Beyond personal growth, he also wants them to understand financial responsibility—not just enjoying wealth, but also managing and growing it for the future.
“In the future, wala bang magha-handle nung finances na nabuo namin? Ano mangyayari dun?” he asks.
For Michael V, wealth isn’t just about what you earn—it’s about what you build and sustain. And he’s making sure his children understand that, even if their last name comes with privilege.
This article includes quotes from an interview originally published by Esquire Philippines, authored by Henry Ong.
