He once made the nation cry, smile, and believe in miracles as Nathaniel, the cherubic angel who brought light and kindness to primetime television in 2015. Fast-forward nearly a decade later, Marco Masa has grown from a child star into a confident young man — thoughtful, grounded, and full of heart. Now 18, he’s stepping back into the national spotlight as one of the new housemates in Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0, proudly representing the Kapuso (Sparkle) lineup as the “Wonder Brother ng Antipolo.”

Behind Marco’s new title lies a story deeper than fame. The “wonder” recalls his days as a precocious child actor, but “brother” perfectly defines his core — a devoted sibling to Justin, his 32-year-old brother with Down syndrome.

Justin doesn’t speak, yet their relationship speaks volumes. “We talk through gestures, eye contact, and small cues,” Marco shared, describing a silent but strong bond. Their parents once explored medical options to help Justin communicate, but in the end, it was love that became their family’s true language.

The Masa household in Antipolo runs on simplicity, cooperation, and faith. His father, Antonio, manages a buy-and-sell business, while his mother, Soledad, turned from computer shop owner to full-time homemaker — in fact, that very shop was where Marco’s showbiz journey began.

“I just want to make life better for my family,” he said sincerely. “My dream is to buy them a bigger house and take them on a trip.” Raised in a home that values empathy over extravagance, Marco remains as down-to-earth as ever, even as he rebuilds his career under the spotlight.

Marco’s acting story began almost by chance — discovered while dancing atop a chair at his mom’s computer shop. A talent scout saw potential in the lively four-year-old and invited him to audition for commercials. From there, the rest was cinematic history.

He debuted in the primetime series Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala alongside Judy Ann Santos, Sam Milby, and KC Concepcion. But it was his starring role in Nathaniel that made him a household name — the angelic boy who became a symbol of goodness and hope.

Now, he’s traded his wings for more mature roles. Marco has appeared in a Kapuso afternoon drama, a youth-oriented series, and even in the Netflix film Outside. His transformation from the country’s favorite angel to a promising young actor proves that his talent, like his heart, has only grown with time.

Despite balancing fame and school, Marco has remained a diligent student, currently in Grade 12 at Our Lady of Fatima University in Antipolo. His classmates describe him as approachable and kind — the same traits that made him a fan favorite as a kid.

He’s also a natural socializer, forming strong friendships with fellow artists like Zephanie, Chanty, Olive May, John Clifford, and Sean Lucas. Inside the PBB house, his warm personality shines through — not in drama or rivalry, but in meaningful, mature conversations.

A standout moment came during his talk with fellow housemate Miguel Vergara, where they discussed love and jealousy.

“Aaminin ko, kahit papaano seloso ako,” Marco admitted. “But for valid reasons, not for petty reasons.”

Miguel responded, “For me, wala akong gagawin kasi I trust my partner. I won’t give her a reason para magselos.” (“For me, I won’t do anything because I trust my partner. I won’t give her a reason to be jealous.”)

To which Marco replied, “Ako, palaging assurance. Gusto ko ‘yung girl may peace of mind na kung siya, siya lang.” (“For me, always assurance. I want the girl to have peace of mind that if it’s her, it’s only her.”)

The exchange quickly went viral, earning praise for showing emotional intelligence and maturity. Viewers dubbed them “green flag kings” — proof that the new generation of young stars lead with empathy, not ego.

From a child angel teaching kindness to a young man embodying it, Marco Masa continues to evolve with grace and humility. Inside Pinoy Big Brother, he stands as a reminder that fame doesn’t need to change one’s character — that you can grow up in showbiz and still keep your heart sincere.

Once the nation’s Nathaniel, now the Wonder Brother ng Antipolo, Marco’s story is a testament to the power of goodness, family, and faith. Because in a world that often glorifies noise and fame, his quiet strength reminds us: growing up kind will always be the most wonderful thing of all.