Yamyam Gucong lands first lead role in rom-com ‘Beauty and Bert’

CEBU, Philippines —  After five years in Manila following his win on "Pinoy Big Brother: Otso", Yamyam Gucong decided not to renew his contract with Star Magic. He instead returned to Bohol to pursue a degree in criminology at the University of Bohol.

Now a freelance actor, the 30-year-old Boholano remains open to collaborating with major networks in Manila but is more inclined to accept projects closer to his hometown.

One such project is the upcoming Cebuano romantic comedy “Beauty and Bert”, where he stars alongside Aiana Juarez. The film, set to premiere December 5 at SM Seaside City, marks Gucong’s first lead role.

The flick is spearheaded by BisayaFlix founder Elcid Camacho, who recognized Gucong’s potential as a leading man after working together on a commercial.

“My dream is to be a big comedian in the Philippines, and I see this role as a gift from the universe because I never expected this,” Gucong told The FREEMAN during the film’s press conference.

Gucong plays Bert, a humorous honor student who develops a crush on Beauty, a Regina George-like “it girl” played by Juarez. The two forge a bond when an unexpected opportunity brings them together.

Drawing inspiration from comedian Empoy Marquez in “Kita Kita”, Gucong also leaned on his experiences filming “Can’t Buy Me Love” which featured the popular loveteams DonBelle (Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano) and MaThon (Maris Racal and Anthony Jennings).

“Even though 'Can’t Buy Me Love' was a straight-up love story, I still got ideas from it. 'Beauty and Bert' is a relatable story that combines romantic excitement and comedy,” he shared, adding that he formed his dynamic with Juarez from the viral on-screen banters of MaThon.

A DonBelle fan, Gucong fondly shared a memorable moment with the pair. “They are so approachable. I’d just be sitting there, and they’d pass by and ask if I’d eaten already. I was so touched because of how nice they are,” he said.

He also praised the strict work ethic of Cathy Garcia-Sampana, one of the directors of "Can’t Buy Me Love" alongside Mae Cruz-Alviar.

“When Direk Cathy is on set, you should be on set too. Don’t be late, or you’ll look bad,” he recalled. “She’s so detailed, even with shots of the eyes. Sometimes it takes 20 takes until she gets the one she wants. But outside filming, she’s very approachable.”

Reflecting on his time inside the PBB house in 2019, Gucong shared that the tasks from Big Brother were the most challenging parts of the experience.

“It’s a reality show, so with every task, your personality comes out. It’s really pure emotions,” he said, stressing that nothing about those moments were scripted. “I’m not usually the type to cry, but I remember being so moved many times inside the house.”

Gucong also recounted his struggles adjusting to life in Manila, from memorizing Tagalog lines to speaking the language while doing grocery shopping. At times, he said he faced discrimination from those who assumed Bisaya individuals were less capable.

Despite these challenges, Gucong is proud of his roots. “There are so many talented Bisaya people representing us, like BINIs Colet and Aiah, and Melai Cantiveros,” he said. “Even if we face discrimination, it’s fine — let’s just fight through it.”