John Rey Malto

John Rey Malto, a Filipino songwriter and talent manager, was born on October 22, 1991, in Manila, Philippines. His journey to excellence began in academia, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and pursued additional education-related credits at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University in San Fernando City, La Union. His passion for continuous learning led him to complete vocational courses in Photography at Lorma Colleges and Event Management at Our Lady of Guadalupe. He also pursued a Master's in Development Administration, focusing on Public Administration, although he did not complete the program.

From humble beginnings as a service crew member in fast-food chains, John Rey's determination and ambition fueled his rise in the competitive Philippine showbiz industry. His story serves as a testament to how perseverance and passion can lead to success.

John Rey spent six years as a freelance writer, researcher, guest coordinator, and talent coordinator, paving the way for his entry into the entertainment industry. He discovered his calling in managing aspiring showbiz talents, many of whom participated in singing contests, TV game shows, and film productions. His career breakthrough came in 2018 when he began managing models and beauty queens. This role provided him with deeper insights into the entertainment world and the opportunity to mentor rising stars.

By 2018, John Rey's growing reputation earned him an appointment as a director for the International Modeling Competition in the Philippines, Runway Model Universe, solidifying his status in the industry.

In 2019, John Rey was honored during a film lecture at a basic theater acting workshop organized by the Department of Education in Bangued, Abra. Recognized for his expertise in photography, he shared the stage with veteran actor Rolando Inocencio and award-winning documentary filmmaker Dexter Macaraeg, inspiring aspiring artists with their willingness to share their craft.

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, John Rey remained steadfast in managing his talents and ventured into advertising to sustain his career while supporting budding artists. Among the talents he has mentored are Shyr Balagtas, Kristel Millado, Ma. Cristel Antibo, Anasity Jardeliza, and Euriz Sagum. Currently, his active roster includes Joice Espinoza, Princess Imperial, Hafsa Isra, Riley Jabido, Rumi Kierra, Claudelle Cudal, Phrinz Aljud Velasco, and Shaila Vanschoonhoven, among others.

John Rey's achievements have been widely recognized. In 2021, he received the Golden Star Award for his "Outstanding Contribution to the Entertainment Industry and Selfless Public Service." In 2022, he was named "Most Outstanding Talent Manager and Inspiring Artist Management of the Year" at the Manila Grand Opera Hotel & Casino.

In 2023, John Rey served as casting director for two international films: Spring in Prague and The Mariana's Web.

Spring in Prague, a romantic comedy directed by Lester Dimaranan and Paolo Emmanuel Magsino, was produced by Atty. Ferdinand Topacio. It starred Czech-Macedonian actress Sara Sandeva and Filipino actor Paolo Gumabao. Written by Eric Ramos, the film tells the love story of a Czech woman traveling to the Philippines and falling in love with a resort owner, who later travels to Prague to meet her. The Mariana's Web, directed by Marco Calvise and Paolo Bertolo, starred Alexa Ocampo, Ruben Maria Soriquez, Asia Galeotti, and Luca Biagini. It tells the story of Fosco, a farmer living alone in rural Italy, whose life is disrupted when a mysterious woman arrives with an unexpected gift.

Both films showcased John Rey's versatility and expanding influence in the entertainment industry.

On December 10, 2023, he was awarded "Asia's Most Outstanding Talent Manager of the Year" at the 1st MMTV Asia's Golden Eagle Achievement Awards.

In the same year, John Rey also worked as a freelance researcher for Rated Korina (formerly Rated K), a Philippine television news magazine show broadcast by ABS-CBN, TV5, and Kapamilya Channel. Hosted by Korina Sanchez, the show delivers exciting and relevant stories while engaging special guests. One of John Rey's notable contributions as a researcher was the life story of Mr. Johnny Manahan, also known as Mr. M, "The Star Maker of ABS-CBN Star Magic."

In 2024, John Rey became a guest coordinator at Bilyonaryo News Channel (BNC), the newest TV network in the Philippines, offering cutting-edge business reporting and comprehensive coverage of national issues, politics, lifestyle, and sports. He collaborated with some of the most respected names in Philippine journalism, including Korina Sanchez-Roxas, Pinky Webb, Marie Lozano, Maiki Oreta, Atty. Karen Jimeno, Mai Rodriguez, and Paolo del Rosario. John Rey managed programs such as BASIS POINTS with Maiki Oreta, FOLLOW THE MONEY, WORLD NEWSFEED with Raine Musñgi, and INDUSTRY BEACON with Ferdi Salvador and Maiki Oreta.

Additionally, John Rey honed his filmmaking skills as an apprentice at MUD Studios under award-winning directors Arvin Belarmino, August Lyle Espino, and Kyla Romero.

He also attended a songwriting masterclass with renowned songwriter Jimmy Borja, culminating in his composition of "Pangako Mo," performed by Joice Espinoza. The song achieved over 1.2 million views on Facebook and received multiple accolades, including a Silver Medal Winner for Outstanding Achievement at the Global Music Awards (GMA) 2024 for Original Score/Soundtrack for Film and Television, Best Musical at the 2024 Europe Music Video Awards, Best Asian Music 2024 at the Parai Musical International Awards, and Best Asian Song in Southeast Asia at the World Music and Independent Film Festival 2024.

On June 29, 2024, John Rey was named "Outstanding Showbiz Personality of the Year" at Asia's Triumphant Awards. He also received recognition from Top Model Philippines for his contributions to the entertainment industry and was featured in The Global Filipino Magazine.

John Rey's primary goal remains discovering and nurturing hidden talents. His message to the younger generation is clear: prioritize education, remain dedicated to your passions, and never give up on your dreams, no matter the challenges.
- IMDb Mini Biography By: John Rey Malto