17 and 18—the ages where life feels like a giant question mark. Are you an adult? A teenager? Both? It’s like standing on a seesaw, wobbling between childhood and adulthood. At 17, you’re still clinging to the carefree chaos of youth, but at 18, the world suddenly expects you to know how to “adult.” For some, these years feel like a boundary—one foot in the past and the other stepping cautiously into the future.
It’s confusing, thrilling, liberating, and a little bit terrifying all at once. But for 18-year-old rising singing heartthrob Jarren Garcia, who’s just recently navigated these waters himself, the blend of emotions feels all too familiar.
Now stepping into the spotlight of the Philippine entertainment industry as the next big thing, Jarren is thriving. Having braved the crossroads of 17 and 18, he knows exactly what it’s like to face life’s uncertainties head-on, and it’s a challenge he’s more than ready for.
That London boy
“That London boy” from Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 quickly earned his title as an “it” boy and fashionista. From the moment he stepped into the iconic PBB house, he had fans swooning with that thick British accent that was an instant charm overload. Add in his soulful singing and effortless flair for style, and it’s no wonder he became a household favorite.
With a personality and impressive social skills, Jarren managed to steer clear of nomination points for quite some time. Meanwhile, the buzz outside the house was just as strong as his social media following exploded, rocketing past 1.7 million followers.
But as every PBB alum knows, the real challenge begins after the final lights dim. “When I left the house, I saw how my following skyrocketed, and I was in absolute shock,” Jarren admits.
With his new-found fame, he’s taking it all in stride, thanks to the unwavering support of his fans. “The newfound fame is something I’m slowly getting used to, but it is a lot to take in,” he shares. “I find it easy, though, because my fans are so amazing and make work not feel like work. I love what I’m doing now, and my fans make me enjoy it so much more.”
In everything he does, the “Charming Crooner ng London” sees his growing fan base as validation that he’s doing something right. But he’s no stranger to the double-edged sword of fame. With the overwhelming love he receives come the inevitable noises—the endless speculations, the pressure of expectations, the fan wars and, of course, the love team ships that fans have fervently created with his fellow housemates.
Jarren remains unbothered, though, handling it all with his trademark charm and humility. “I wouldn’t say it’s pressuring,” he says. “I’m just glad to see people supporting us individually and together, and also enjoying the time I spent with the other person and the bond we have made.”
While others might feel the weight of being in the public’s eye, Jarren sees it as a chance to connect and share meaningful moments—not just with his fans but also with those who’ve become part of his journey.
“Before entering the industry, I already knew what it was like, and it was something I was ready for,” he quips. For him, the secret lies in staying authentic. “I’m just having fun and being myself. If people enjoy that, then I love you and thank you. And to those who don’t, no problem. Everyone has something to say, and not everyone will like you, which is okay.”
It’s a fresh perspective from someone so young, showing that he’s not just in it for the applause but for the growth, too. Jarren knows how to filter the noise, leaning on the people who matter most. “The only criticism I will take is from the people I love, such as family and friends,” he explains, and he’s handling that very well.
But he’s not entirely dismissive of outside opinions. “I’d say it can be good to hear the opinions of others, as not everything people say is meant in a malicious manner.”
In His DNA
Pinoy Big Brother isn’t Jarren’s first rodeo in the spotlight. Before becoming the heartthrob everyone’s going crazy with, he was part of The Voice Kids UK and even scored a cameo in Calum Scott’s 2023 music video for “Whistle.”
And let’s not forget, like many Filipinos who can carry a tune, Jarren’s got singing in his bones right from the very start. He candidly shares that even before he was born, his mom was already setting the stage for his future, praying with a cassette player by her belly, hoping he’d become a singer. And it actually worked.
“Music has always been a massive part of my life whether it is just singing or listening to music itself,” he expresses. When life gets overwhelming, Jarren turns to his favorite musical artists to help him unwind. “Any songs by Daniel Caesar or Jhené Aiko always help make me feel relaxed,” he reveals.
Another passion of his is fashion. Ask Jarren what he thinks deserves more attention in the fashion world, and he’ll proudly bring the conversation back to his roots. “Filipino designers and creatives need more recognition. I’ve seen tons of amazing and insanely talented Filipino creatives who deserve more recognition within the industry and worldwide,” he says.
His fashion journey started way back, with little Jarren confidently raiding his closet to create his own runway moments. “I’ve always liked to dress up,” he shares, recalling how he’d mix and match sneakers, hats, and glasses as a kid. Turns out, those childhood experiments paid off.
Now, his style is a mix of inspiration from icons like Tyler the Creator, Frank Ocean, and Skepta, with a sprinkle of magazine-worthy aesthetics for good measure. But don’t get it twisted—Jarren’s style mantra is as cool as he is: “Never let the outfit wear you.”
Pardon his pace
Jarren entered the PBB house as a 17-year-old dreamer brimming with hope and passion, officially stepping into the industry as an 18-year-old trailblazer finding his rhythm. Everything was not an overnight success.
If he could give his younger self a piece of advice, it would be simple to “just enjoy and have no expectations.” It’s wisdom he’s glad he embraced, allowing himself to grow and learn at his own pace—proof that sometimes, the best way to navigate life is to take it one exciting step at a time.
His next step, probably and arguably one of his biggest leaps yet, is an album which is something he has been wanting to do but never had the courage to do so. To be released on February 7 with a launch showcase on February 8, “That Boy, Jarren” is rooted in his love for R&B.
“The album has that hint of R&B as it’s my favourite genre to listen to and to sing but I’d say that there’s a bunch of different sounds and vibes within the album which I’m excited to share,” he explains. “I’d say some inspirations would have to be Daniel Caesar, Post Malone, The Weekend, Destin Conrad and Keshi.”
One song to look forward to is “Pardon My Pace.” Jarren describes it as the most “him” song on the album. It’s where his vocal ability takes center stage which further weaves a story and gives listeners a clear sense of his singing style.
When asked what’s been the most rewarding part of finally releasing an album, Jarren shares, “It would have to be listening to the songs finally finished and enjoying the sound of every single track. The entire process of creating the album has been incredible, and hearing it all come together is such an exceptional feeling.”
With all this and that, the perfect way to fuse all his passions—fashion, music, and storytelling (all while rocking that irresistible British accent)—is by becoming a MYX VJ. And honestly, he’s been doing just that naturally throughout the MYX VJ Search.
VJ Jarren’s excitement is at its high peak as he shares, “I’m just so excited to be talking about music, pop culture, and artists—everything that I love.” He also sees this as an opportunity to break out of his shell, becoming more confident and comfortable with speaking and hosting.
At 17, Jarren was just dreaming. But at 18, everything unfolded into its rightful place. As he grows alongside his passions and the industry, what more can we expect from this rising star? With a debut album, a MYX VJ journey, and endless possibilities ahead, Jarren is just getting started creating, sharing, and embracing everything that comes with the ride. He’s still on cloud nine for sure, but of course, with his own pace, the sky’s the limit, because “That Boy, Jarren” is only going to get better.
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Produced by the Parcinq Team
Photography by Rxandy Capinpin
Art Direction by Joe Andy
Styling by Dave Arden with
Style Associate Ryebread
Grooming by Mycke Arcano with
Grooming Associate Jam Jacobe
Words and Interview by Jacob Santos
Fashion Film by Ren Lucas
Content Editing by L.A Bendaña
Shoot on Location at The Grey Space Art Gallery Special thanks to Star Magic
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