Jake Zyrus, formerly known as Charice Pempengco, has become the talk of social media after snippets from his 2018 memoir I AM JAKE resurfaced online, revealing how he once had a net worth of $16 million (around P927 million) during the peak of his career—but barely got to enjoy it.
In the book, Zyrus shared that it was only after meeting his accountant that he realized how much money he was making from tours, private gigs, and endorsements abroad.
“Imagine how I felt when as an adult who should be able to handle my own money, I met my accountant for the first time and learned that when I went on tour, I could earn up to $600,000. When I sang at private events, I could get up to $300,000. Endorsement in States earned me up to $1,000,000,” he wrote.
Despite the massive earnings, Zyrus claimed he never had real control over his finances. He revealed that his mother, Raquel Pempengco, handled his money, leaving him unable to enjoy the rewards of his hard work.
“She only knew how much she was worth, but she never actually got to touch or enjoy her earnings. Sure, I saw houses being built and cars being bought using my money, but I was always told they weren’t mine,” he said.
Zyrus also recalled having to ask permission just to use the cars bought with his income. “Sometimes, she would refuse my request,” he wrote.
Looking back, Zyrus said that while he may not be worth as much now, he feels richer than ever. “It’s only that I finally know what it’s like to have a house under my name and a car I can use anytime I wish,” he added.
