Japanese-Brazilian model-turned-actor Daniel Matsunaga wants to be a naturalised Filipino and stay in the country for the rest his life. Having recently won the Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) All In edition, the celeb also wants to play for the Azkals.
Congratulations for winning the Pinoy Big Brother All In reality TV competition. Many are saying you should not have been included in the show because of your citizenship. What say you?
I am Filipino by heart, and if I have to be injected with Filipino blood I am willing to do it. I have been here for five years, and I can say I am as much as Filipino as the next Pinoy you see on the street.
Can you now speak Tagalog fluently?
I can speak and understand, though not fluent yet in speaking… But I have been learning the language and speaking new words I learn every chance I get.
What has made you stay here and why are you willing to become a naturalised Filipino?
The breaks that I have been given here, I didn’t experience anywhere in my life, not even in my home country. So I am happy to be here and I want to make the Philippines my home.
Your family is willing to relocate with you?
Oh, yes. They love it here. My Dad is just going to finish his job, and he says in two years he will join the rest of the family.
That will be a big adjustment. Are you and your family prepared?
There is nothing more that we want than to be here. So, we are prepared to make the adjustments and make the necessary sacrifice. Apart from the language, there isn’t much of a difference — Filipinos and Brazilians are passionate, fun-loving, religious people. We have many things in common that is why I feel at home here, and my family will be able to adjust easily I am very confident.
What will you do now after PBB All In?
I will have a movie at the Metro Manila Film Festival in December this year. I will be part of the horror film Shake, Rattle and Roll. The other one is confirmed under Star Cinema, but I am not allowed to divulge any details yet.
What has been your best experience so far in the Philippines?
Being a part of PBB was such an amazing experience. It is the highlight of my career so far. I am glad Filipinos voted for me. Thank you, thank you very much.
What are your other plans besides show business?
I am also a professional football player back in Brazil, so I want to try my luck with the Azkals and play for the Philippine flag someday.
