Mikee Bustos unfiltered: 10 truths at 44

Mikee Bustos is turning 44 with the same vibrant energy that first catapulted him to fame, the Filipino-Canadian singer, comedian, and viral vlogger is not slowing down. In fact, he’s just getting started.

From parody king to ant whisperer, and now an independent music artist with a brand-new single out, Bustos celebrates his birthday not with cake or confetti, but with wisdom. In a heartfelt post marking his 44th year, he shared ten life hacks—quirky, wise, and deeply personal—that reflect the lessons he’s gathered from a life spent under the spotlight, and in search of self.

But first, who exactly is Mikee Bustos?

THE RENAISSANCE MAN OF THE INTERNET

Born Michael John Yadan Tumanguil Pestano Tilapia Bustos III on June 23, 1981, Mikee first caught public attention as a finalist on Canadian Idol. But it was through his creative, often hilariously Filipino-themed YouTube content that he truly captured hearts both at home and abroad.

With over a million followers across platforms, Bustos built an empire of cultural comedy sketches, music parodies, lifestyle vlogs, and one particularly niche (and massively successful) YouTube channel: AntsCanada, where he educates and entertains viewers about the captivating world of ant-keeping.

Whether he’s filming viral skits about OFWs, serenading audiences with Tagalog-English ballads, or narrating the rise of an ant colony with the gravitas of a nature docuseries, Mikee remains unapologetically himself—a trait that continues to endear him to fans across generations.

TEN LIFE LESSONS AT 44

To celebrate his 44th birthday, Mikee didn’t just post selfies or birthday wishes. He gave back something more valuable—wisdom, distilled from the journey so far. Here are some highlights:

• “There is no such thing as ‘your prime.’”

For Bustos, success isn’t linear—and age isn’t a limitation. “You can peak as many times as you work for it,” he says, challenging societal timelines and encouraging lifelong ambition.

• “Nature is your best friend.”

As someone who literally built a brand around ants and ecosystems, Mikee’s reverence for nature runs deep. He advocates for sunlight, trees, and even walking barefoot—grounding advice, literally and spiritually.

• “Address all your demons before you get rich.”

Fame and fortune can magnify inner chaos. Bustos urges self-reflection and emotional healing before chasing external validation.

• “Love yourself like crazy.”

In a world that often mistakes confidence for arrogance, Bustos offers a refreshing take: “Anyone who says you love yourself too much secretly hates themselves.” His advice? Be your biggest fan.

• “Laugh at yourself—but be kind to yourself.”

Known for self-deprecating humor, Mikee reminds us that joy doesn’t come from perfection, but from self-compassion.

These aren’t just slogans—they’re truths earned through public wins and private struggles. Each piece of advice reflects a version of Mikee who’s grown through vulnerability, reinvention, and deep personal work.

A NEW ERA OF MUSIC

And speaking of reinvention, Mikee’s birthday coincides with the release of his second single, “Parachute”—an emotional and creative departure from the comedic content he’s known for.

“This is a new part of me I love sharing with the world,” he said. “Streaming and sharing my music is the best birthday gift you could give.”

Unlike his parody roots, Mikee’s current music speaks from the soul—echoing the lessons he’s learned, the identities he’s embraced, and the heart he’s always carried.

FROM ANT COLONIES TO CULTURAL ICON

Bustos remains a rare breed: a creator who doesn’t chase trends, but builds communities. Whether it’s fellow Filipinos abroad, LGBTQ+ youth looking for representation, or science geeks obsessed with formicidae, Mikee creates space for everyone.

He’s the content creator who made being yourself the brand—and who continues to show that success, when rooted in authenticity, only gets better with age.