Jhong Hilario completes master’s degree with highest merits

Actor-host Jhong Hilario graduated and received his master’s degree in public administration from World Citi Colleges on Thursday, Aug. 29. 

The It’s Showtime host proudly marched with his family at the college’s commencement exercises held at the PICC Plenary Hall and received his diploma with the highest merit.   

In an interview with ABS-CBN News, Jhong said it took work to juggle his responsibilities as a city councilor, noontime host, father, and student.   

“‘Yung mga sacrifices, ‘yung minsan busy‘ng busy, and siyempre hindi naman biro ang masteral din. Plus ‘yung mga ginagawa natin bilang konsehal at artista rin,” he shared.   

“Kung talagang gusto, mayro'n talagang paraan. [...] Kapag lahat ng tao sumusuporta sa’yo, parang ang sarap gawin ng lahat kahit mahirap,” he added, thanking his ever-supportive friends and family. 

To complete his master’s course, Jhong took a one-year modular program, where he had to research and source the books he was assigned to read and study.   

He was also elated upon receiving his degree’s highest merits but deemed it a “bonus” as his priority was to graduate to prepare for the future.  

“Hindi ka habang-buhay na artista, if ever na may opportunity na maibigay sa’kin bilang public servant, at least naka-ready ka,” he said. 

“'Di ko sinasabi na tatakbo ako for a higher position or what. I’m just ready lang, if ever na kailangan ako sa ganito o sa ganiyan,” he clarified.   

Last June 2023, Jhong earned his bachelor’s degree in political science and graduated Magna Cum Laude at Arellano University at age 46.

He previously gave an advice to those who want to finish their studies and said it's never too late to do so. "Sa lahat ng gustong makatapos ng pag-aaral, kahit late na na katulad ko, meron talagang pagkakataon. Meron talagang paraan para gawin ito kahit na sobrang busy tayo. Time management lang. For me napaka iksi ng buhay para walang gawin eh."