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Former Star Magic artist Eduard Bañez proves that pursuing a dream has no expiration date after finding success in Los Angeles following his departure from the Philippine entertainment industry.

After leaving local showbiz in his 30s, Bañez embraced a new chapter by preparing for a fresh start and eventually joining an American company. He believes that waiting for the right opportunity only made achieving his goals even more rewarding.

Like many people chasing a new beginning, Bañez faced self-doubt, fear, and uncertainty before gaining the confidence to move forward and discover his own strength.

Although he once believed that being an artist was his true calling because of his experience in the Philippine entertainment industry, life eventually led him down a different path, opening the door to new opportunities abroad.

“I initially found the Philippine entertainment industry to be enjoyable. Rehearsals, filming, and being in front of the cameras were enjoyable for me. Until I realized it wasn’t for me. But that’s just my life being redirected by the world,” he said.

He added, “I’m sure maraming makaka-relate sa akin. ‘Yung buong akala mo, ‘yun ang career mo, pero hindi pala. Siyempre masasaktan ka sa una. Pero ganoon talaga. Tuloy lang. Hindi dapat matatapos ang buhay.”

(I’m sure many people can relate to me. You may have thought all along that it was your career, but it turned out it wasn’t. Of course, you’ll get hurt at first. But that’s just how it is. Just keep going. Life shouldn’t end because of it.)

Bañez, a late bloomer, finds it fascinating to see his own personal growth and success later in life. He also stated that people should never overlook late bloomers.

“I almost gave up, but I want to remind those who are starting later in life that it is never too late. There is no “magic number.” There is no defined timeframe. There is no formula. You really have to trust the timing. So what happens if it’s too late? A win is a win, regardless of how late it comes,” he shared.

“Sa simula, mapi-pressure ka talaga lalo na kung nakikita mo ‘yung mga ka-edad mo na successful na. Pero you have to turn off the noise. Focus on yourself. Focus on what you can do. Gawin mo lang challenge ‘yun,” added Bañez, who also owns a business.

(At first, you’ll really feel pressured, especially when you see people your age who are already successful. But you have to turn off the noise. Focus on yourself. Focus on what you can do. Just treat it as a challenge.)

Bañez believes age is simply a number. One should never set a goal for a specific age.

“Hindi mo talaga alam kung saan ka dadalhin ng panahon. Masuwerte ‘yung iba na maaga nilang nakita ‘yung success. Siguro nga pinagplanuhan nila ‘yun. Pero naniniwala ako na you don’t have to set a plan. Love what you do. Be excellent. And be intentional,” he added.

(You never really know where time will take you. Some people are fortunate enough to find success early. Maybe they really planned it that way. But I believe you don’t have to set a plan. Love what you do. Be excellent. And be intentional.)

Bañez currently supports some charity initiatives in the Philippines. He stated that despite his success, he never forgets to share his blessings with others since it adds meaning to his life.

“At the end of the day, it is the people you touch and help who make life meaningful. Who would have believed that I would be this comfortable in life? Blessings were meant to be shared,” he ended.

Bañez enjoys his current life in America, but believes there is still more to life.