JM de Guzman: Picking up the pieces

Actor JM de Guzman has come to terms with his drug addiction, and boldly admitted he underwent rehab for substance abuse. Out of circulation for a year, the actor is back and hopes to pick up the pieces of a shattered dream. He opens up to tabloid!. 

Q: It has been a year since you were out of the limelight. How have you been?

A: I am very good, thank you. I went through a difficult and challenging phase in my life, but now I am back. Hopefully, there is still a place for me in showbusiness. 

Q: With your talent, no doubt. What was going through your mind while you were away?

A: Missed chances and opportunities. I wanted to finish the programme as quickly as possible, but it just doesn’t work that way. I was thinking of my family, who has been my source of strength. Without their support, I would not have been able to come back so soon.

But I appreciate the time I spent in rehab. I had a structured life, in a way to discipline myself. I had to face the fact that I was responsible for what I did, and that I am also responsible for changing my life, turning things around.

It was also time for strengthening my faith. It was not just for physical rehabilitation, although a lot of it had to do with taking the drugs out of my system. But overall, the treatment went beyond that. I am glad I did, because what I went through I could use for any challenge in life. Whatever is coming, I feel ready. 

Q: How would you describe your life just before you entered rehab?

A: It was an exciting life, but there was also a lot of pressure. I am thankful that people saw the talent in me, and I was given great projects. The little fame I had got into my head. I just enjoyed it a bit too much, thinking I’d never lose it. I lost discipline, and I was out of control. 

Q: Was it true that the reason you turned to drug abuse was because you were so broken-hearted after your break-up with Jessy Mendiola?

A: It wasn’t really because of that, although the loneliness was also a part of it. It was just essentially me losing control of myself — I thought I could enjoy the ‘high’, at the same time enjoy the benefits of having a career. I realise now it couldn’t happen; there is no good that can come from drug abuse. 

Q: Is the rehab now complete?

A: It’s a lifelong treatment, although the actual programme is only 10 months. I have two more months to go, although I was already released from the rehab centre. This is a critical period, but I am so thankful ABS CBN gave me another chance. I’m now doing an episode for the Ipaglaban Mo series. 

Q: How did it feel being on the set again?

A: I was nervous. I am feeling my way through everything, but everyone on the set has been very supportive. I am so grateful. 

Q: Any immediate plans?

A: I just got out of rehab. I want to cherish the freedom that I have and rediscover how good it feels to be free from drugs.