In an emotional exchange, former child actor Jiro Manio parted ways with his Gawad Urian award after selling it to content creator Boss Toyo from Pinoy Pawnstars.
Jiro surprised viewers after making an appearance in the vlog’s 301st episode. He brought along his Best Acting trophy wrapped in a plastic bag.
Manio received the said award in 2004 at one of the most prestigious award-giving bodies in the Philippines, Gawad Urian Awards, for his performance in the 2003 film “Magnifico”.
He initially offered it to the vlog’s host, Boss Toyo, for P500,000, but it was only purchased for P75,000 because the actor’s name was not engraved on the trophy.
According to the 31-year-old former actor, he was informed that Boss Toyo plans to establish a museum for former artists who have received awards. Wanting to be a part of it, he decided to sell his trophy to the collector.
“Sabi ng utol ko magpapatayo ka raw ng museum. Sana mapabilang ako roon na dating artista na nakatanggap ng award,” shared Jiro.
The former child star also shared several details and stories about his life, admitting that he used to earn millions from his showbiz career, but succumbing to substance abuse and facing legal issues led to the derailment of his life.
Currently, Jiro has two children and is actively volunteering at a Department of Health rehabilitation center in Bataan, which, according to him, is the same place he went to when he struggled with addiction.
Concluding the episode, Manio imparted a message to the collector, “Happy po ako dahil tinanggap ni Boss Toyo yung award giving body (trophy) na pinapatago ko sa kanya para mailagay niya sa museum kung matuloy ‘yun.
“Nagpapasalamat ako. ‘Yun lang. Maraming salamat po,” he added.
