Matteo Guidicelli’s commitment to service goes far beyond the camera lens.
As an actor and a Philippine Army reservist, he has long used his platform to amplify courage, patriotism and resilience. Now he takes this advocacy to national television in Philippine Defenders airing on GMA Network.
In this docu-series-style program, Guidicelli immerses himself in the lives of modern-day heroes — the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines who safeguard the nation’s sovereignty across land, sea and sky. From training drills to remote deployments, Philippine Defenders offers a rare, ground-level perspective into the sacrifices and strength of our military personnel.
“We are all defenders of the Philippines,” Guidicelli wrote in a recent social media post. “Let’s carry that responsibility with pride.”
The post was a reflection on his participation in the Balikatan exercises in Bulacan, one of the largest annual joint military drills in the country involving Philippine forces and allies from the United States, Japan and Australia. But the scope of his message reached far beyond combat preparedness.
“Balikatan is more than a military exercise,” he emphasized. “It’s about building bridges and great relationships… We were able to build new classrooms and invest in what truly matters — education, community and the future of the Filipino youth.”
More recently, Guidicelli undertook a humbling journey to one of the country’s most geopolitically sensitive areas: Pag-asa Island in the Kalayaan Island Group, located in the contested West Philippine Sea. His firsthand account of the visit was sobering. “Just 3 kilometers away, a Chinese Coast Guard ship was visible, surrounded by other large foreign vessels,” he noted. “Yes, a lot of questions to be asked…”
Amid the tensions was a deeper message: The irreplaceable value of unity, resilience and protecting not just sovereignty but also identity. Guidicelli’s conversations with stationed troops and UP marine researchers highlighted the area’s rich biodiversity, an ecological treasure as much as a strategic one.
Warmly welcomed by the island’s small community, he shared a simple meal and spoke with residents about their evolving lives. “Rooted in strength, resilience, and hope,” he said. “That’s a Filipino.”
Through Philippine Defenders, Guidicelli isn’t just spotlighting national defense — he’s humanizing it. The show becomes a platform not just for patriotism, but for empathy, awareness and action. Whether through joint international efforts or quiet lunches in far-flung islands, it’s a timely reminder: Defending the Philippines is everyone’s duty.
Guidicelli’s message resonates louder than ever — one of unity, vigilance and pride. “Let’s continue to strengthen these relationships,” he said. “Empower our communities and work hand-in-hand for a better, brighter tomorrow.”