By: Jane Andes and Francesca Bacordo
Date: January 23, 2026

As Philippine pop culture continues to evolve in real time, even more Gen Z talents are stepping into the spotlight. These names are shaping conversations, filling timelines, and carving out space in an industry learning to move at their pace. From screens to stages to social feeds, this next set of rising stars proves that the wave is only getting bigger in 2026.

Will Ashley, Award-winning talent on the rise

Will Ashley has been earning serious recognition for his acting, winning awards and nominations from awarding bodies. His performances in Balota and Bar Boys: After School have been praised for depth and range, showing growth well beyond his early TV work. 

Shuvee Etrata — The Island Soul With a Viral Pulse

From TikTok viral hits to Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0, Shuvee Etrata’s rise feels authentic and grounded. She’s amassed millions of followers with her charm, relatability, and morena representation that many Gen Z audiences celebrate as overdue in the mainstream spotlight.

Beyond social growth, she’s appeared in series like Hearts On Ice and Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre, and has brand ambassadorships with various brands, with her face card occupying almost every billboard along EDSA!

Atasha Muhlach is THAT girl

Atasha Muhlach is turning heads this year as a multi-hyphenate: actress, host, singer, and early fashion/brand muse. Already known from co-hosting roles on E.A.T. and her pop single “Pasuyo,” she’s building a presence that crosses screens and feeds.

Heart Ryan in her Zein Shion Era

Heart Ryan is breaking into the mainstream as the lead of Hell University, a mystery-thriller adaptation streaming on Viva One this February. The Wattpad phenomenon with millions of reads is her first major starring role, and fans have been seated as Ryan’s role in Ang Mutya ng Section E have been very promising, with preview clips for the upcoming series circulating online.

She’s also balanced acting with real-world projects like solo music ventures and internships that keep her talking to Gen Z audiences both on screen and off.

Heath Jornales Watchlist Wave Starter

Known for his charisma inside the PBB house, Heath Jornales continues to surface in trending buzz feeds and circle discussions about rising names this year, driven by early roles, familial legacy, and a growing audience that roots for him to be one of the big winners of the reality show as he exudes “major green flag” energy.

Caprice Cayetano, The Soft-Hearted Scene-Stealer

Caprice Cayetano started as a child actress but has proven herself with strong performances in shows like Kambal, Karibal and Prima Donnas. Her stint on Pinoy Big Brother highlighted her soft, kind-hearted personality, making her one of Gen Z’s most relatable young stars.