AJ Manas eyes world title as ‘Starboy’ shines on global pool stage

At just 19 years old, AJ Manas is already making waves on the international pool scene.

Dubbed “Starboy,” Manas captured the Hanoi Junior Open title in 2023 and, two years later, earned a spot on Team Asia in the Reyes Cup, where he was ultimately named Most Valuable Player.

“Noong una, pressured ako kasi hindi ko naman akalain na mapapabilang ako sa Team Asia. Excitement na rin, so pinag-igihan ko at pinaglaanan ko ng panahon,” Manas told Martin Javier on 24 Oras’ “In the Game” segment.

Following his Reyes Cup stint, Manas went on to rule the 2025 WWW International Open in Indonesia.

Despite his young age, Manas has benefited from the guidance of seasoned veterans in the sport, including Django Bustamante and Carlo Biado.

“Laging sinasabi, focus ka lang palagi. Parang nagpa-practice ka lang. Huwag mo isipin mga nanonood,” Manas said, recalling a tip from Bustamante.

But for Manas, these achievements are just the beginning as he sets his sights on an even bigger goal.

“Sa ngayon sa paglalaro ko, gusto ko ‘yung world title kasi sa ngayon wala pa ako.”

—JKC, GMA News