Actor Marvin Agustin was the ultimate heartthrob back in the ‘90s, and fans would scream their hearts out just to catch a glimpse of the young star. Add to that the iconic love team he had with actress Jolina Magdangal in numerous TV shows and movies.
Slowly, he transitioned into being a chef and restaurant magnate with several successful ventures, exploring other opportunities outside the glitz and glamour of showbiz.
But what many do not know about him is that he rose from very humble beginnings, helping his family make ends meet as an ambulant vendor.
“Nagtitinda si Mommy ng kung ano ano like tapa, tocino, fried chicken. Tapos naglalako ako sa neighborhood,” Marvin shared his interview with broadcaster Karen Davila on her vlog.
And with the family continuing to struggle, he even set out to apply as a waiter at Tia Maria’s at the young age of 15 years old.
“May kumukuha na sakin mag-artista. Naging part ako ng marketing staff, na nagse-set up ng buffets sa ABS-CBN. Tumatanggi pa nga ako kasi ang saya-saya ko na meron akong Php8,000 a month sa trabaho ko,” he recalled.
Opportunity knocked, and he ventured into showbiz, raking in cash and fame. But what’s incredible is that it opened the door for him to return to the food industry. When he became an endorser for Mister Donut, he didn’t ask for a talent fee—he requested a franchise of the store instead.
“That’s when I learned more in the food business. Naguide nila ako to be a franchisee. Yung experience ko as a waiter, as an employee, gusto ko i-expand ang knowledge ko as an owner naman. Feeling ko it’s a great start. May processes and systems na, may product na, susundan mo na lang. Yun naging warm up ko (in the restaurant business),” he shared.
Today, Marvin owns several branches of different restaurants, including Mr. Vin Munchies, Secret Kitchen, and Cochi Bistro.
Through it all, he clings to the lessons and experiences of his younger days when he was just trying to help his family make ends meet.
“Kapag nasa survival mode, lahat gagawin mo, papasukin mo. Yan ang nadevelop ko: Laban ng laban. The hunger to succeed and survive ay laging nandon,” he said.
And that drive continues to push him forward, even now. “Lagi ko siyang ginagamit sa lahat ng bagay kahit ngayon nakakaraos na. Pag wala ka sa mood magtrabaho, nahihirapan, iisipin ko yun. Dati wala, ngayon meron, alagaan natin,” added Marvin.
