Miguel Tanfelix has no interest in unhealthy vices

MIGUEL Tanfelix

Miguel Tanfelix, who turned 18 last Sept. 21, said he will strive to live his life responsibly, especially now that he’s legally an adult and is currently representing a program for the youth.

“It’s an honor for me, because I get to act as a role model for people from my generation. I want to maintain a clean image so I could set a good example for them,” said the actor, who was recently named the ambassador of U4U—an initiative of the Commission on Population and the United Nations Population Fund that aims to help teens make informed decisions about different kinds of relationships.

By keeping a “clean image,” Miguel meant—among other things—resisting common vices, like smoking, drinking alcohol and taking drugs. “I wouldn’t be surprised if one or two people started egging me to try those things. Luckily, I have no interest in them,” said Miguel, adding that it’s important to surround himself with family and good friends.

Drugs, in particular, are something that don’t need to be experienced, said Miguel. “I’m aware of the negative effects. I don’t feel the need to try it, not even once. A lot of people go through with their lives without it…I’m not curious,” stressed Miguel, adding that he would rather play basketball or travel, for recreation.

What would he do if someone offered him drugs? “I would tell President Duterte about it,” he quipped, laughing.

Miguel has already begun his duties as U4U ambassador, visiting schools, where he facilitates different activities and gives talks. “I was just at the Commonwealth High School. We want to encourage the youth to avoid bad things. We tackled premarital sex, early pregnancy and drugs,” he related.

A former child star who entered show biz through the reality talent search, “Starstruck Kids,” Miguel is now a sophomore at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, where he’s taking up entrepreneurship. “I want to run my own business in the future. I want to make sure that what I’m earning doesn’t go to waste,” he pointed out.

Miguel admitted that while juggling his studies and acting career has been big a challenge, it isn’t impossible. He’s part of the Kapuso network’s first interactive rom-com anthology, “Usapang Real Love” (Sundays, starting Sept. 25). But despite his busy schedule, he makes sure to find time for his school work.

“If I get a break during taping, I study. It’s tough, but it’s all about knowing your priorities,” said Miguel, who’s coheadlining the program’s first story, “Dream Date,” with his screen partner Bianca Umali.

“I want to finish school, because I know that show biz is not permanent,” Miguel added.

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