Summary
Highlights
He acknowledges that recovery is not a quick fix after rehab but a continuous, lifelong journey where one wrong choice can ruin everything.
Baron admits to hitting rock bottom financially, spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically due to his drug use, yet he remained in denial, believing he was still in control.
Baron credits his work with Incognito for saving his life and career, transforming him into a better human being, actor, and father. He explains how he shed his manipulative facade and embraced the tough love and support of his new 'family'.
He discusses growing up competing with his Olympian brother for his father's attention, always feeling second best. He also mentions the family history of addiction and mental health issues, with his father being an alcoholic and his mother having bipolar disorder.
Baron reveals he started experimenting with drugs and alcohol at a very young age, doing hardcore drugs like cocaine and meth by 14. He sought chaos and noise, believing it fueled his artistry, but later found peace of mind and serenity more satisfying.
He admits that he got addicted to the power and entitlement of getting away with things, a behavior he is now ashamed of.
Baron recounts his time in Quezon City Jail, where he even manipulated others. Despite this experience, his behavior didn't change, and he continued drinking, breaking his brother's heart.
His mother's passing was a turning point, plunging him into depression. He admits to blowing through a million pesos on cocaine, eventually hitting financial rock bottom, yet he remained in denial.
Another arrest for assault, carrying a deadly weapon, forced him to surrender. After a month in jail, he reconnected with a spiritual mentor who helped him understand the love of God, leading him to take the Bible and recovery seriously.
Baron dedicated a year to mental health and recovery, becoming an advocate for the Philippine Mental Health Association Cebu, sharing his testimony and educating others. He expresses his determination to stay sober, driven by the positive results and his love for his family and craft.
He clarifies that his past reputation for anger was often part of an acting persona, particularly during 'Beast Mode' where he immersed himself in a chaotic character for nine months. He states that in reality, he is sweet, loving, and shy.
Baron shares about a recent four-day relapse with alcohol due to overwhelming work stress. This experience solidified his decision to quit alcohol entirely, recognizing it as poison. He is now three months sober from alcohol and completely done with illegal drugs.
He emphasizes seeking help through therapy, daily spiritual practices, and systematic work. He encourages others to 'stumble forward,' learning from mistakes, and striving for 1% progress daily, rather than perfection.
Baron reflects on the liberating experience of receiving his first acting award while sober. He expresses immense gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans, family, and even those from ABS-CBN, acknowledging that this is a humbling and new experience after over 30 years.
He concludes by sharing his desire to live in truth, free from masks. He testifies to God's reality in his life, seeing his transformation from a 'lost cause' to a 'talented' individual as proof of God's grace.