Meet ZEEN’s 5 Honorary Filipinos We Couldn’t Help But Adore
- September 23, 2026
The Philippines is not just rich because of its culture and heritage—it is also rich in the people and the communities that we have built along the way.
One thing about being Filipino is that it’s not just about being related by blood, but it is also about the relationships that have prospered along the way. As a country that thrives in community and being highly-social beings, we definitely know a thing or two about pakikipagkapwa. Here’s the list of honorary Filipinos that we love:
Sandara Park

As the “Pambansang Krung Krung”, Sandara Park is definitely on top of ZEEN’s list. After joining Star Circle Quest, she found her way into Filipino’s hearts in no time—starring in various movies and shows that we know and love even until today. And while she had to fly back to South Korea and be a part of 2NE1, her ties with the Philippines have never left: visiting whenever she is able, and bringing the “pagiging Pinoy” with her no matter where she is in the world.
Cameron Diaz
And while there has been no official confirmation whether Cameron Diaz has visited the Philippines or not, she is still considered to be one of the honorary Filipinos in this list. It all started when an interview clip talking about her ties with the Filipinos resurfaced—how she grew up with a best friend that is Filipino and talking about all the Filipino food that she tried.

From lumpia to adobo, it is clear that even if Cameron Diaz may have not been to the Philippines just yet, the country’s culture of hospitality has always been consistent, whether it is in the Philippines or not.
Ryan Bang
Joining Pinoy Big Brother is one thing, but staying and pursuing a career in the entertainment industry is another—and that is how Ryan Bang has made a mark into being a “Filipino at heart”.

What made his stay even more memorable in the country and added charm to him being Pinoy is his fluency in Tagalog, drawing appreciation from Filipinos. So while Ryan started as Kuya’s housemate, he eventually won our hearts over—and became the honorary Filipino that we know of today.
David Archuleta
What would this be without David Archuleta? For most, they have known him because of his stint in American Idol. But his constant appearances in the Philippines’ mainstream media and his consistent visits ever since has made him an honorary Filipino too.

Beyond the connection that he has established with his Filipino fans, his constant effort to maintain his ties with the Philippines—whether by having a concert in the country or a visit—is enough proof why he is an honorary Filipino.
Dave Franco
Of course, Dave Franco—the most recent honorary Filipino—completes the list. After starring in Forgotten Island alongside our very own Liza Soberano and H.E.R, Franco has earned the title.

Aside from showing a deep enthusiasm in the country’s heritage, Dave has also been very vocal about his appreciation for the Philippines—from our food, culture, and traditions.
The Philippines is not just rich in culture, tradition, and in heritage—it is also rich because of its people, and those who appreciate it.
PHOTOS from SANDARA PARK, CAMERON DIAZ, RYAN BANG, DAVID ARCHULETA, and THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JIMMY FALLON (via Facebook)






