Jose Manalo, born Ariel Pagtalonia Manalo on February 12, 1966, is one of the Philippines’ most beloved comedians, television hosts, and entertainers.
He’s widely known for his long-standing role on the flagship noontime variety show Eat Bulaga!, as well as memorable appearances on sitcoms, comedy shows, and live performances. From humble beginnings in Tondo, Manila, Jose’s journey to fame is both inspiring and full of resilience.
Bio Data
- Full Name: Ariel Pagtalonia Manalo
- Stage Name: Jose Manalo
- Born: February 12, 1966
- Age: 59 years old (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Tondo, Manila, Philippines
- Nationality: Filipino
- Occupation: Comedian, Actor, Television Host, Entertainer
- Parents: Renato Manalo (father), Anita “Aning” Pagtalonia (mother)
- Siblings: Four siblings
- Spouse: Anna Lyn Santos (late, m. 1984 – d. 2022), Mergene Maranan (reported spouse, married 2024)
- Children: Five children (including Benj Manalo and Nicco Manalo)
- Relationship: Married
- Net Worth: Estimated several million Philippine pesos
Early Life & Background
Jose Manalo’s story begins in Tondo, Manila, Philippines, where he was born to Renato Manalo, a policeman, and Anita “Aning” Pagtalonia, a housewife. He is one of five siblings and grew up in a family that worked hard to make ends meet.
From a young age, Jose was energetic and involved in school activities such as singing and dancing. His mother would enter him into amateur singing contests, using any small winnings to help support the family.
Jose completed elementary education at Magat Salamat Elementary School and high school at Gregorio Perfecto High School. Throughout college, he attended several institutions including the University of Santo Tomas, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Mapua Institute of Technology, and the University of the East, where he took up Civil Engineering, though he did not complete a degree due to financial responsibilities and family obligations.
Early Struggles & Entry into Showbiz
Before fame, Jose held various jobs just to make a living — from being an errand boy, pedicab driver, and vendor selling cigarettes and candles. He also spent part of his early entertainment journey as a clown in the performance group Boyoyong Clowns.
In 1992, his first break in entertainment came when director Herman Escueta cast him in the popular drama series Valiente. This role gave Jose his first real exposure on television and helped him gain confidence and experience in acting.
Rise to Fame on Eat Bulaga!
Jose’s career changed dramatically in 1994 when he joined the longest-running Filipino noontime variety show Eat Bulaga!. Initially working behind the scenes as a production assistant and later as a floor director, he was eventually given opportunities in front of the camera due to his comic talent and natural stage presence.
By 2003, Jose officially became a regular co-host of the show, where he has remained one of the most recognizable faces for over two decades.
His chemistry with fellow comedians, especially Wally Bayola and Paolo Ballesteros, led to the fan-famous trio known as JoWaPao — a successor to the classic comic team TVJ (Tito, Vic & Joey).
Eat Bulaga! not only made Jose a household name but allowed him to connect deeply with ordinary Filipinos through humor that reflects everyday Filipino life.
TV & Film Career Beyond Eat Bulaga!
Jose Manalo’s talents extend far beyond hosting. Over the years, he appeared in several sitcoms, including:
- Daddy Di Do Du (2001)
- Ful Haus (2007)
- My Darling Aswang (2010)
- Vampire ang Daddy Ko (2013)
- Hay, Bahay! (2016)
- Open 24/7 (2023)
He also starred in films such as Lastikman, the Enteng Kabisote franchise, Iskul Bukol 20 Years After, and the parody Trip Ubusan: The Lolas vs. Zombies with JoWaPao.
Other TV appearances include hosting game and reality shows like Celebrity Bluff, Laugh Or Lose, Fill in the Bank, and judging programs such as Battle of the Judges.
Jose and Wally also performed stand-up comedy in popular comedy bars like Klownz and Zirkoh, and released novelty songs such as Kalabit Penge and Jump Brother.
Personal Life & Family
Jose married Anna Lyn Santos at just 18 years old. They had five children: Myki (a licensed doctor), Benj and Nicco (both actors/performers), Ai (accounts manager), and Colyn (musician).
In 2022, Jose’s wife Anna Lyn passed away at age 54.
Jose and Anna’s relationship faced challenges, including separation in 2012 amid money issues and legal disputes — though cases were eventually dismissed.
In December 2024, Jose reportedly married longtime partner Mergene Maranan, marking a new chapter in his personal life.
Controversies & Challenges
Like many public figures, Jose’s career has had its share of controversy:
- In 2013, he faced child abuse allegations related to financial support issues from one of his children — though he denied abandoning his kids and clarified support arrangements through his management.
- Rumors of his death have circulated online but were confirmed to be hoaxes.
- Reports in 2023 suggest he faced financial hardship and delays receiving salary from Eat Bulaga, especially during a period of personal losses in his family.
Despite these challenges, Jose remains active in entertainment and maintains a positive reputation with fans.
Awards, Recognition & Legacy
Jose Manalo may not have a long list of formal awards, but his lasting influence on Philippine comedy and hosting is undeniable. His presence in Eat Bulaga! for over 20 years demonstrates his resilience and popularity.
He also won recognition in music through novelty hits alongside Wally Bayola, and their act received a “Most Popular Male Novelty Singer” award at the Guillermo Mendoza Awards.
Net Worth
Jose Manalo’s estimated net worth is believed to be in the range of several million Philippine pesos, accumulated through hosting, acting, endorsements, live shows, and business ventures.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Jose Manalo?
Jose Manalo is a Filipino comedian, actor, and TV host best known for long-time hosting on Eat Bulaga!.
Q2: How old is Jose Manalo?
He was born on February 12, 1966 — making him 59 years old in 2025.
Q3: What show made him famous?
His big break came as a co-host and comedian on Eat Bulaga!.
Q4: Does he have children in showbiz?
Yes — his sons Benj and Nicco Manalo are both in the entertainment industry.
Q5: Is Jose Manalo married?
He was married to Anna Lyn Santos (deceased) and reportedly remarried Mergene Maranan in 2024.
Conclusion
Jose Manalo’s life is a testament to perseverance, versatility, and heart — from humble beginnings in Tondo to becoming one of the Philippines’ most beloved comedy icons. Whether through laughter on noontime television, acting in sitcoms and films, or mentoring new talents, his legacy endures as a pillar of Filipino entertainment.
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