John Rey Malto (born October 22, 1991) is a Filipino songwriter, researcher, photographer, and talent manager. He is best known for managing aspiring artists in the Philippine entertainment industry and for his contributions to film, television, and talent development. Early Life and Education Malto was born in Manila, Philippines, and raised in Sudipen, La Union. He began his primary education at CAA Elementary School in Las Piñas City, later transferring to San Francisco Elementary School in Sudipen La Union. He completed his secondary education at San Francisco National High School in Sudipen, graduating in 2011. In 2017, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with additional education credits from Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University in San Fernando City, La Union. He pursued a vocational course in Photography at Lorma Colleges (2018) and studied Event Management at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Quezon City (2023). He also began a master’s degree in Development Administration at DMMMSU but did not complete it. Career While studying, Malto worked as a service crew member at Jollibee, McDonald's, Chowking, and 7-Eleven. He also worked as administrative staff for the late Balaoan Councilor Merlyn Ostrea and later at the Department of Justice Prosecutor’s Office during his OJT. He was mentored by Atty. Angelito Grande, former Director IV of the Civil Service Commission and PhilHealth executive. Entertainment Industry Malto began his entertainment career as a freelance researcher, writer, and talent coordinator. In 2018, he shifted to talent management, focusing on models and beauty queens. That same year, he was appointed Director of the Philippine chapter of the International Modeling Competition, Runway Model Universe. He shared his expertise in photography at a 2019 theater workshop by the Department of Education in Abra, alongside actor Rolando Inocencio and filmmaker Dexter Macaraeg. Talent Management Mentored by ABS-CBN’s Luis Yu, Malto has managed talents in shows like ''Tawag ng Tanghalan'', ''The Voice Kids'', ''It’s Showtime'', ''Idol Philippines'', and ''Goin’ Bulilit''. His artists include Shyr Balagtas, Kristel Millado, Joice Espinoza, Princess Imperial, Hafsa Isra, and many others. With guidance from Engr. Arlan Mercado of GMA Sparkle, Malto also introduced new talents to the GMA Artist Center. In 2021, he received the Golden Star Award by ATC International, followed by AHTOMP’s recognition as "Most Outstanding and Inspiring Talent Manager of the Year" in 2022. Film and Production In 2023, Malto apprenticed at MUD Studios under Arvin Belarmino and others. He became Casting Director for two international films: * ''Spring in Prague'' – A romantic comedy directed by Lester Dimaranan, starring Sara Sandeva and Paolo Gumabao. * ''The Mariana’s Web'' – Directed by Marco Calvise, starring Alexa Ocampo and Luca Biagini. He also served as Assistant Event Director for the "Friends for Love Festival" benefit concert at Music Museum, featuring artists like Lance Raymundo and Joice Espinoza. Media and Songwriting Malto worked as a freelance researcher for ''Rated Korina'' and contributed to the feature on Johnny Manahan. He studied songwriting under Jimmy Borja and composed "''Pangako Mo''", performed by Joice Espinoza, which earned over 1.2 million Facebook views and won multiple awards, including: * Silver Medal, Global Music Awards 2024 * Best Musical, Europe Music Video Awards 2024 * Best Asian Music, Parai Musical International Awards 2024 * Best Music Video in Southeast Asia, World Music & Independent Film Festival 2024 * Best Asian Song, WM\&IFF 2024 In 2024, Malto became a guest coordinator at Bilyonaryo News Channel (BNC), working on programs such as ''Basis Points'', ''Follow the Money'', and ''World Newsfeed''. He collaborates with journalists Korina Sanchez-Roxas, Pinky Webb, and Marie Lozano. He was named "Outstanding Showbiz Personality of the Year" at the 2024 Asia's Triumphant Awards and recognized by Top Model Philippines and The Global Filipino Magazine. Currently, he is a Talent Scout for Viva Entertainment’s ''Artista Academy'' on TV5. Advocacy and Affiliations Malto serves on the Board of Trustees of the International Ecotourism Society Philippines Inc. (TIES Ph Inc.), which promotes sustainable tourism, biodiversity conservation, and cultural preservation. Personal Philosophy Malto encourages youth to "Prioritize education, stay dedicated to your passions, and never give up on your dreams, no matter the challenges."