Cover Story: Still Leading – A New Chapter With Enchong Dee

Working on a recent series – under a celebrated director fresh off a massive local hit – catalysed an artistic rebirth. ‘It’s been a while since I had this inspiration,’ he admits, the excitement still lingering. ‘No matter how tired, no matter how early the time is, I have this newfound inspiration to put the love and hard work in.’ This awakening revealed a tangible metamorphosis post-pandemic – a recalibration where ‘everyone from the lead actors to the supporting actors are so knowledgeable when it comes to their particular character.’

The creative chemistry ignites magic: ‘When we converge in one particular scene, it’s a dynamic interaction of textures – different sounds and different characters working together. And it’s moving.’ The project’s global rollout – a Netflix premiere 72 hours before airing on local TV – thrills him: ‘More chance to cater to Filipinos all over the world and non-Filipinos, I haven’t felt this excited promoting a series.’

This international reach is no longer aspirational. ‘I have this intentional focus to look for projects that have a more international appeal,’ he states definitively. He recently wrapped his first Canadian film and is deep in preparations for a major multi-territory collaboration (Singapore, Philippines, Taiwan) shooting later this year. It feels like manifestation: ‘It’s something that you just think about, daydreaming about it. And then the next thing you know, there are projects being offered to you.’

He views every endeavour – including features like this cover story – as spotlighting Filipino talent and professionalism worldwide: ‘It’s nice to show the kind of professionalism that we carry…so that, you know, we can keep on getting more of it.’ He’s committed to preparedness, constantly arming himself with ‘new learnings and new professionalism’ for the global stage.

Enchong speaks with particular passion about his upcoming series ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,’ recognising its significance beyond entertainment. He sees it as vital work. ‘It’s a softer way to introduce mental health issues to the Philippine audience,’ he explains with measured consideration.

While acknowledging progress, he remains clear-eyed: ‘We’ve gone through so much, but we still have a lot of things to learn.’ He views the show as an active force for good: ‘Championing mental health is another step forward for the whole country.’

He deeply values storytelling’s ability to educate without lecturing: ‘There’s a beauty – learning something through a series, it’s more fun. And it gets absorbed easier. I always say, “how nice is it to learn something while being entertained.”’

Longevity isn’t lost on him. Nineteen years after his debut, standing amidst Hong Kong’s shimmering skyline, Enchong Dee exudes a deep sense of gratitude. ‘I am grateful. I’m still here, still being offered good roles and good projects.’ His long-running career is built on a deep respect for the craft – and for everyone who brings it to life.

Watching the effort on set – ‘everyone in the set, from the cameraman to the audio man to the lights – puts in their 100%’ – fuels his own drive. ‘How dare am I not to?’ he reflects. The result of this recent experience? A powerful, personal reawakening: ‘I came out of the series holding on to new love for my craft.’ It’s the mark of an artist who chose growth over comfort, collaboration over ego, and meaningful storytelling over fleeting fame.

Today, Enchong Dee stands as an artist who shares the spotlight, thrives on creative challenges, and champions Philippine talent on a global stage. Most significantly, after nearly two decades, he has realigned – passionately and purposefully – with the heart of his work. He’s reshaped what it means to be a leading man – not by commanding attention, but by directing it toward something far more lasting: the power of shared stories, continuous evolution, and genuine human connection.