Dustin Yu has emerged as one of the most talked-about rising Filipino celebrities in Philippine entertainment. The young Gen Z Filipino actor has captured hearts nationwide through his compelling performances, entrepreneurial ventures, and authentic personality.
This comprehensive biography covers everything about the Manila-based actor who’s quickly becoming a household name.
Who Is Dustin Yu? Meet the Filipino Actor and Entrepreneur
Dustin Charles Yu is a 24-year-old Filipino actor and businessman born on May 13, 2001. The rising Filipino celebrity gained widespread recognition as Kenneth Chan in the GMA Telebabad series “Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune.” Beyond his acting prowess, this young Filipino businessman co-founded Eraya, a popular fusion restaurant in San Juan, Manila, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit alongside his entertainment career.
Dustin recently participated in “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition” in 2025, where he became one of the most followed housemates. His journey from university marketing student to television star represents the modern Filipino youth who excel across multiple fields while maintaining strong family values and cultural roots.
The Sparkle GMA Artist Center talent has become synonymous with versatility, balancing acting projects, business ventures, and an active social media presence. His genuine connection with Filipino audiences everywhere reflects in his growing popularity across all platforms.
Dustin Yu Biography: Complete Profile & Essential Facts
Dustin Yu Real Name and Origins
Full Name: Dustin Charles Yu
Unlike many celebrities who adopt stage names, Dustin Yu uses his birth name professionally. This authenticity resonates strongly with his fans who appreciate his genuine approach to fame. Born into a Filipino-Chinese family in Quezon City, Metro Manila, his father Peter Yu is a businessman, and his mother Donalyn Yu is a homemaker.
His Filipino-Chinese heritage influences his work ethic, family values, and dedication to his craft. Growing up in Manila with traditional values shaped the person he is today, both on and off camera. The Yu family has instilled strong cultural practices that Dustin carries proudly throughout his career.
How Old is Dustin Yu? Age and Birthdate Details
Date of Birth: May 13, 2001
Current Age: 24 years old (as of January 2026)
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Generation: Gen Z
Dustin Charles Yu was born on May 13, 2001, making him 24 years old. As a Taurus, he embodies characteristics associated with this sign—determination, reliability, and persistence. He celebrated his 24th birthday while inside the PBB house, making it an unforgettable milestone.
At just 24, Dustin Yu has accomplished what many aspire to achieve over decades. He graduated from university, launched a successful acting career, won prestigious awards, and established a thriving business—all before turning 25. His age represents a generation of multi-talented individuals who refuse to be confined to single career paths.
Young audiences relate deeply to his journey, finding inspiration in how he balances ambition with humility. His youth brings fresh energy to every role he undertakes, making him one of the most exciting prospects in Philippine television industry.
Dustin Yu Height and Physical Appearance
Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm / 172.7 cm)
Build: Athletic, Fit
Hair Color: Black
Eye Color: Dark Brown
Ethnicity: Filipino-Chinese
Style: Modern, Clean-cut
Dustin Yu stands at 5 feet 8 inches, an ideal height for television and film work. His physical appearance reflects his Filipino-Chinese background, featuring distinct facial features that earned him recognition as the “Chinito Boss-Sikap ng Quezon City” during his Pinoy Big Brother journey.
The actor maintains a fit physique through regular exercise and sports activities. His clean-cut looks and professional styling make him a natural fit for both dramatic roles and commercial endorsements. Fans frequently praise his fashionable sense of style, with his outfits often trending on social media platforms.
His approachable appearance combined with his confident on-camera presence creates a magnetic screen appeal. Whether portraying Kenneth Chan in family dramas or tackling horror roles, his versatility shines through his physical performance and expressive acting style.
Dustin Yu Parents and Siblings: Family Background
Father: Peter Yu (Businessman)
Mother: Donalyn Yu (Homemaker)
Siblings: One brother and one sister
Pet: German Spitz named Kenneth
Dustin is the eldest of three children, with a younger brother and sister, and grew up in a supportive environment that nurtured his cultural values and early interest in acting, sparked at age 10.
The Yu family provided unwavering support throughout Dustin’s unconventional journey into entertainment. His parents were surprised when he pursued showbiz, as they didn’t initially think he was serious about acting. However, once they saw his dedication and passion, they became his strongest advocates.
Family gatherings and celebrations remain important parts of Dustin Yu’s life despite his busy schedule. He frequently expresses gratitude for his family’s support and guidance, crediting them for keeping him grounded amid growing fame. The close-knit Yu family exemplifies traditional Filipino-Chinese values of respect, hard work, and mutual support.
Interestingly, Dustin named his beloved German Spitz dog “Kenneth” after his breakthrough character in “Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune.” He frequently shares adorable photos of Kenneth on social media, showcasing his caring and nurturing personality beyond his public persona.
Dustin Yu Ex Wife and Girlfriend: Relationship Status 2026
Marital Status: Never married
Current Relationship: Not publicly confirmed
Notable Connection: Bianca de Vera (DustBia love team)
Dustin Yu is not married and has no ex-wife. At 24 years old, the Filipino actor focuses primarily on his flourishing career and business ventures. Before meeting Bianca de Vera in PBB, Dustin was single for about four years, focusing on self-improvement.
The DustBia Phenomenon: Dustin Yu and Bianca De Vera
Dustin and Bianca de Vera have become one of the most talked-about love teams in Philippine showbiz, known collectively as “DustBia”. Their connection began inside the Pinoy Big Brother house, where they were the last pair of housemates evicted before Big Night.
In a January 2026 interview with Karen Davila, Dustin confessed that he developed feelings for Bianca, although he clarified they’re currently just friends. When asked directly, he said “Oo naman, Miss Karen. Hindi ko naman ‘yun maitatanggi” (Of course, Miss Karen. I won’t deny that), but emphasized “Ano kami ngayon, friends” (We’re friends now).
Dustin admitted both Bianca’s looks and personality initially drew him in, saying he became interested in her stories, character, and everyday behavior from the moment she entered PBB. Their relationship continues to evolve, with Dustin stating they’re always progressing as they build their connection.
Dustin asked Bianca to be his GMA Gala 2025 date in August with a romantic proposal featuring candlelight and flower petals. They star together in the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival entry “Love You So Bad” alongside Will Ashley.
In interviews, both Dustin and Bianca shared their preference for traditional courtship over modern dating culture, with Dustin saying there’s a sense of effort and genuineness in old-school approaches that online interaction can’t replicate.
Dustin maintains privacy regarding his personal romantic life, preferring to keep that aspect separate from public attention. This approach helps him maintain professional boundaries while nurturing genuine relationships away from media scrutiny.
Dustin Yu Career Journey: From Student to Stardom
Education: University of Santo Tomas Marketing Degree
Dustin took up Marketing Management at the University of Santo Tomas, which he managed side-by-side with his showbiz career. His educational background in marketing now fuels his entrepreneurial ventures and business acumen.
During his university years, he was a varsity player and team captain in his elementary and high school years, showing early leadership qualities. Dustin is passionate about basketball, swimming, and golf, maintaining an active lifestyle that complements his on-screen physicality.
Acting Breakthrough: Mano Po Legacy Actor
Debut Year: 2021
Breakthrough Role: Kenneth Sy Chan in “Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune” (2022)
Network: GMA Network / Sparkle GMA Artist Center
Dustin began his acting career in 2021 with roles in the drama anthology series “Regal Studio Presents,” debuting in the “Myra’s Miracle” episode. However, his career-defining moment came in 2022.
In 2022, he gained prominence as Kenneth Sy Chan, the youngest heir, in GMA Network’s “Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune,” sharing the screen with veterans like Boots Anson-Roa, Maricel Laxa, and Barbie Forteza. This role established him as a promising talent capable of holding his own alongside seasoned actors.
The character of Kenneth became so beloved that Dustin even named his pet dog after him—a testament to how deeply this role impacted his life and career trajectory.
Award-Winning Performances
Major Award: New Movie Actor of the Year at the 40th PMPC Star Awards for Movies for his role as Bong in “Shake, Rattle & Roll Extreme” (2023)
Dustin also won a Special Award as Male Star of the Night in 2025, further cementing his status as one of Philippine cinema’s rising stars.
Television Career Highlights
Major TV Shows:
- Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune (2022) – Kenneth Sy Chan
- Mano Po Legacy: The Flower Sisters (2022-2023)
- Daddy’s Gurl (2023) – Dustin Chan
- Black Rider (2023-2024) – Timothy Geronimo
- Pulang Araw (2024) – with David Licauco and Barbie Forteza
- Binibining Marikit (2025)
- Pepito Manaloto: Tuloy ang Kuwento (2023-2024) – Junjun
He became part of the series “Pulang Araw” and “Black Rider,” and also starred in movies under his agency Regal Films.
Film Career: Shake Rattle & Roll and Beyond
Major Films:
- Shake, Rattle & Roll Extreme (2023) – Bong ⭐ Award-winning role
- Guilty Pleasure (2024) – Zachery
- Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins (2025 MMFF) – Horror entry
- Love You So Bad (2025 MMFF) – LA, romantic lead
2025 MMFF Breakthrough Year
Dustin Yu is experiencing a breakthrough year with two major films in the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival lineup—the horror entry “Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins” and the multi-studio romance-drama “Love You So Bad”.
In “Love You So Bad,” co-produced by Star Cinema, GMA Pictures and Regal Entertainment, Dustin stars as LA, sharing top billing with fellow Pinoy Big Brother alumni Bianca De Vera and Will Ashley.
The film proves that the former PBB housemates have the skills to prolong their stay in showbiz, with Dustin delivering a genuinely surprising performance that reviewers praised as more than competent.
Actor Richard Gutierrez, working with Yu in “Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins,” noted that Yu sometimes arrives on set with barely any sleep due to his packed schedule, demonstrating his incredible work ethic and dedication.
Pinoy Big Brother Journey: Celebrity Collab Edition
Show: Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition (2025)
Nickname: “Chinito Boss-Sikap ng Quezon City”
Final Placement: 10th place (evicted before Big Four)
Love Team: DustBia (with Bianca De Vera)
In his PBB stint with other Kapuso and Kapamilya celebrities, he displayed resilience in staying in an enclosed space and tenacity in accomplishing various weekly tasks.
Before Big Four were formed, remaining housemates had to go through three tasks that were challenging. Dustin and Bianca were the last housemates evicted after losing the final Big Jump Challenge.
Asked about coming so close to the finale, Dustin said he wasn’t disappointed but heartbroken, explaining that with just one mistake, everything disappeared after pouring his all into three tasks.
Despite not making the Big Four, his PBB journey significantly boosted his visibility and popularity. His popularity skyrocketed as the housemate known as “Chinito Boss-Sikap ng Quezon City” in the historic season.
What Does Dustin Yu Do? Actor, Entrepreneur & Social Media Influencer
Acting Career Focus
Dustin Yu primarily works as a professional actor in Philippine television industry and film. He takes on diverse roles across multiple genres—from family dramas to horror films, romantic comedies to action series. His performances continue to impress critics and audiences throughout the Philippines.
He has demonstrated versatility as an actor in romance, horror, action, drama, and family stories, excelling equally well in each genre. This range makes him valuable to producers seeking a reliable leading man who can adapt to various storytelling styles.
Business Ventures: Eraya Restaurant Owner
Business: Co-founder of Eraya Restaurant
Location: Ongpauco Sister’s Building, San Juan, Manila
Type: Modern fusion restaurant and bar
Opened: October 2024 (first anniversary celebrated October 2025)
The name “Eraya” comes from a Sanskrit word meaning “fortune’s favorite,” reflecting Dustin’s belief that even through problems and challenges, you can still get lucky.
When Chef Henry Manglo was introduced to Dustin Yu, the idea came about for them to open Eraya together, with Dustin playing a big role in deciding the restaurant’s design. Amid troubles with an architect they initially hired, the two took matters of the interiors into their own hands, with Dustin having a lot of input with the design and stepping up every day.
The restaurant offers a captivating blend of exquisite cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and Instagram-worthy aesthetics, making it ideal for unforgettable get-togethers. The menu is a fusion of modern and traditional flavors, with signature dishes like USDA Steak, Truffle Pasta, and Pork Tsukune.
Eraya is developing an al fresco dining area and has plans for new menu items, including innovative cocktails and delectable main dishes, plus a degustation option.
The restaurant marked its first anniversary in October 2025, establishing itself as a popular dining destination in Manila. Dustin balances both careers while maintaining an active presence across his business and entertainment commitments.
Dustin Yu Nationality and Cultural Background
Nationality: Filipino
Ethnicity: Filipino-Chinese
Born: Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Current Residence: Metro Manila, Philippines
Dustin Yu proudly holds Filipino nationality and represents his country’s entertainment industry on various platforms. His Filipino-Chinese heritage enriches his cultural identity, blending traditions from both backgrounds into his personal values and professional approach.
Growing up in Metro Manila immersed him in Filipino culture while maintaining strong Chinese family traditions. This multicultural background connects him with diverse audiences across different communities nationwide. He serves as a role model for young Filipinos embracing multiple cultural identities.
His heritage contributes significantly to his work ethic—the determination and persistence often associated with both Filipino resilience and Chinese business acumen. Dustin represents modern Filipino youth: globally minded, culturally rooted, and unafraid to pursue unconventional career paths.
Philippine entertainment continues celebrating diversity through talents like Dustin Yu. His presence highlights the rich tapestry of Filipino society, proving that cultural authenticity enhances rather than limits professional success.
Dustin Yu Social Media Presence: Instagram Famous Filipino Actor
Instagram: @dustinyuu
TikTok: @dustinyuu
Platforms: Highly active on Instagram, regular TikTok posts, active on Facebook
Dustin Yu maintains an exceptionally active presence across major social media platforms. His Instagram showcases behind-the-scenes moments, restaurant updates, professional photoshoots, and glimpses into his personal life. Fans engage enthusiastically with his content through likes, comments, and shares daily.
He connects with audiences not just through what they see onscreen, but also on social media platforms, where he interacts with fans in the most genuine way. His authentic approach to social media builds genuine connections rather than maintaining artificial celebrity distance.
The actor uses TikTok to share entertaining content, participate in trends, and promote his projects. His videos frequently go viral, reaching millions of viewers and expanding his fan base beyond traditional television audiences. Social media serves as his direct communication channel with supporters nationwide and internationally.
His online popularity translates directly into real-world recognition and career opportunities. Searches for “Dustin Yu age and height,” “Dustin Yu girlfriend,” and “Dustin Yu Eraya restaurant” consistently trend, demonstrating public fascination with both his professional achievements and personal life.
The Personality Behind the Persona: Who Is the Real Dustin Yu?
Down-to-Earth Despite Fame
Dustin is the kind of artist who is both approachable and aspirational, remaining authentic and relatable. He displays genuine humility despite rapidly growing fame and recognition, remaining friendly with fans during public appearances.
His grounded personality reflects the values instilled by his family upbringing. People consistently appreciate his genuine nature both on and off camera. Industry veterans and peers respect his professional attitude and collaborative spirit on set.
Work Ethic and Ambition
Despite his growing list of projects, Dustin remains focused on staying grounded while making a conscious effort to improve his craft, saying “With just a few months before 2026, I’m ready for more challenges”.
Regal Entertainment producer Roselle Monteverde praised Dustin for his work ethic and sincerity, noting he impressed her with his authenticity and preparation, and that it’s always easier for actors to portray roles when they bring part of themselves into it.
Dustin said he believes in the importance of “tuloy-tuloy lang” or keep going, carrying on as long as opportunities come his way. This persistence combined with gratitude for his blessings defines his approach to career building.
Hobbies and Interests
In a video about things he cannot live without, first on his list are books—Dustin revealed he loves to read self-help books during his spare time. This intellectual curiosity reflects his commitment to continuous personal growth beyond professional development.
Sports remain important to him, maintaining the athletic discipline from his varsity days. His active lifestyle contributes to his screen presence and ability to tackle physically demanding roles.
Close Friendship with David Licauco
David Licauco and Dustin share a strong, brother-like friendship, and are connected through their common passion for business. Fans admire their closeness, as both have revealed they talk every single day and share their deepest secrets, also supporting each other in their business endeavors.
In December 2025, David expressed he missed “the old Dustin” as they hadn’t been seeing each other due to Dustin’s busy schedule. Dustin publicly apologized, explaining both were busy but he wanted to explain his situation, noting their schedules have been nonstop lately with no time to hang out.
David entered PBB as a houseguest in May 2025 to visit Dustin, where he pulled a playful prank and shared relationship advice. Their friendship exemplifies genuine bonds that can thrive in the competitive entertainment industry.
Public Interest and Online Popularity
Search Trends and Fan Engagement
Searches for “Dustin Yu biography and life story,” “Dustin Yu age and height,” and “Dustin Yu real name and family” increase steadily across search engines. His participation in Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition significantly boosted his visibility nationwide, introducing him to audiences beyond GMA Network viewership.
Online discussions about Dustin Yu span multiple forums, Facebook groups, and Twitter threads. Fans share news, photos, and updates about his career developments regularly. His popularity on social media translates to real-world recognition, product endorsements, and career opportunities.
DustBia Fandom
Fans continue supporting the DustBia love team, with many commenting that Dustin appears thankful not only for the year but also for their growing partnership. The fanbase created dedicated accounts, fan edits, and organized fan meets specifically for the pairing.
Social media trends frequently feature Dustin Yu in various contexts—from his fashion choices to his restaurant updates, from DustBia moments to his friendship with David Licauco. The consistent interest demonstrates his relevance in contemporary Philippine entertainment landscape.
His name appears in searches related to “Filipino entertainment industry,” “GMA Network actor,” “Philippine showbiz actor,” “rising Filipino celebrity,” and “Gen Z Filipino actor.” Fans eagerly anticipate his future projects, public appearances, and personal milestones.
Is Dustin Yu on Wikipedia?
Yes, Dustin Charles Yu has a dedicated Wikipedia page documenting his biography, acting career, television appearances, films, and achievements. The page is regularly updated as his career continues expanding in the Philippine entertainment industry.
His Wikipedia profile highlights his rise through television dramas, films, and reality shows including Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition. It includes verified references from major Philippine media networks like GMA Network, ABS-CBN, and entertainment news outlets, making it a reliable source of information.
As Dustin Yu’s popularity increases, his Wikipedia presence continues expanding with new projects, awards, and media coverage being added over time. The page serves as an authoritative reference for journalists, fans, and industry professionals tracking his career trajectory.
Dustin Yu’s Vision for the Future
Dustin’s career trajectory suggests more than stardom; it shapes what the next generation of Asian talent can look like: relatable, versatile, and globally resonant, truly making him Asia’s rising star.
Looking ahead, Dustin emphasized he’s ready for more challenges, saying “As much as I’d like to say I’ll take a vacation, I think I’ll be working even more. Opportunities don’t stop, and I don’t want to get too comfortable”.
With upcoming projects announced and his restaurant business expanding, 2026 promises to be another milestone year. His ambition extends beyond becoming a top Filipino actor—he envisions building a lasting legacy across entertainment and entrepreneurship.
Final Thoughts: Dustin Yu’s Inspiring Journey
Dustin Yu represents the new generation of Filipino talent—versatile, ambitious, and authentically connected to their roots. His journey from University of Santo Tomas marketing student to award-winning actor and successful restaurateur inspires countless young Filipinos pursuing unconventional paths.
At only 24 years old, Dustin Yu has achieved remarkable success across multiple fields. His dedication to craft, authentic personality, and strong work ethic resonate with audiences nationwide. The combination of acting skills and business acumen sets him apart from peers in the entertainment industry.
His partnership with Bianca De Vera as DustBia, his brother-like friendship with David Licauco, and his family’s unwavering support create a foundation for sustained success. Fans eagerly watch his career development and upcoming projects with great anticipation.
Dustin recently shared photos from 2025 with the caption “Grateful for 2025,” reflecting his appreciation for the blessings and opportunities the year brought. This gratitude, combined with his relentless ambition, suggests the best is yet to come for this talented Filipino actor and entrepreneur.
As he continues building his legacy in Philippine entertainment and beyond, Dustin Yu proves that with talent, hard work, authenticity, and strategic thinking, dreams become reality—making him truly fortune’s favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dustin Yu
How old is Dustin Yu?
Dustin Yu is 24 years old, born on May 13, 2001. He will turn 25 in May 2026.
What is Dustin Yu’s real name?
His real name is Dustin Charles Yu, which he uses professionally in entertainment.
What is Dustin Yu height?
Dustin Yu height is 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm or 172.7 cm).
Who are Dustin Yu parents?
His parents are Peter Yu (businessman) and Donalyn Yu (homemaker) from the Philippines.
What is Dustin Yu known for?
He is known for his role as Kenneth Chan in “Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune,” his award-winning performance in “Shake, Rattle & Roll Extreme,” and his 2025 MMFF films “Love You So Bad” and “Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins.”
Is Dustin Yu on Wikipedia?
Yes, Dustin Yu is currently active on Wikipedia with a comprehensive page about his career.
What is Dustin Yu’s nationality?
Dustin Yu is Filipino with Filipino-Chinese cultural heritage and background.
Does Dustin Yu have a girlfriend?
Dustin keeps his personal relationships private but has admitted developing feelings for Bianca de Vera, though they’re currently friends. The DustBia love team remains popular among fans.
What business does Dustin Yu own?
He co-founded Eraya, a fusion restaurant and bar located in San Juan, Manila, which celebrated its first anniversary in October 2025.
When did Dustin Yu join Pinoy Big Brother?
He joined Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition in 2025, where he became known as the “Chinito Boss-Sikap ng Quezon City.”
What is Dustin Yu’s education background?
He studied Marketing Management at the University of Santo Tomas while pursuing his entertainment career.
Who is Dustin Yu’s best friend?
He is extremely close with fellow Kapuso actor David Licauco, whom he considers like a brother. They talk daily and support each other’s careers and businesses.
What awards has Dustin Yu won?
He won New Movie Actor of the Year at the 40th PMPC Star Awards for Movies and Male Star of the Night Special Award in 2025.
Where is Eraya restaurant located?
Eraya is located at Ongpauco Sister’s Building in San Juan, Manila.
What is DustBia?
DustBia is the love team name for Dustin Yu and Bianca De Vera, which formed during their time together in Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition.
Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: Wikipedia, GMA Network, Star Cinema, LionhearTV, Manila Standard, Philippine Entertainment Portal, and official social media accounts
