THE RETURN TO EARTH: THE STORY OF JEYRICK SIGMATON

In the world of social media, time flies by so fast. Every day, there is a new face, something new goes viral, something new is being talked about. It’s easy to become famous, but it’s also easy to forget. However, there are stories that stand out not because of the noise, but because of the unique lessons and inspiration they bring.

Do you still remember the year 2016? The time when the entire internet suddenly went crazy because of a photo of a young farmer carrying a basket of carrots? His face was immediately compared to famous Korean actors and international models. His posture, natural and without any artifice. He was “Carrot Man.”

But behind this nickname is Jeyrick Sigmaton, a simple Igorot from the Mountain Province. After several years of silence and staying away from the spotlight, how is he doing? What happened to the provincial man loved by the people? And is it true that he has abandoned the glitter of showbiz to return to a simple life?

The Beginning of Everything

Even before he became a fixture on news feeds and television, Jeyrick lived a quiet life with his family in the mountains. He grew up in a family of farmers where the foundation of life was hard work, vegetable growing, and cooperation.

Jeyrick never expected to become an artist. He was known in his community as a shy, quiet, and kind young man. His world revolved around the farm and his loved ones. He was used to a simple life—away from the hustle and bustle of the city, away from the cameras, and away from the judgmental eyes of the public.

But fate is playful. One day, while he was working and carrying a load of vegetables, a photographer took a picture of him. In that picture, he was wearing only simple clothes, his hair was a little messy, and he didn’t have any makeup on. But his natural “model-like appeal” and his “raw masculinity” immediately attracted the attention of netizens.

In an instant, the photo went viral. Thousands of shares and comments poured in. The simple farmer was dubbed “Carrot Man.” His face became a symbol of the natural beauty of Filipinos, particularly the indigenous Igorots.

Entering the World of Showbiz

With his sudden popularity, opportunities poured in for Jeyrick. From the quiet mountains, he was brought to Manila. He was filled with TV guestings, magazine features, and became a model for several well-known brands.

For a shy provincial, the adjustment was not easy. The previous birdsong and mountain breeze were replaced by the noise of traffic and the glare of studio lights. However, Jeyrick accepted the challenges. He remained “grounded” or down to earth even when many people were staring at him.

One of the biggest breaks that came to him was entering the world of film, particularly Indie films. His most notable project was the film titled “Carrot Boy.” In it, he played a version of himself—a provincial who faced the world of fame.

Best Actor in New York

Many thought that Jeyrick was just a “viral sensation.” Others thought that he was just a pretty face. But he proved the critics wrong.

In the movie “Carrot Boy,” Jeyrick showcased a talent that didn’t come from workshops or formal training. His acting was natural, genuine, and came from the heart. He didn’t have to act too much because the emotions came from his real experiences.

The result? He brought home a great honor for the country. Jeyrick Sigmaton won “Best Actor” at the prestigious International Film Festival Manhattan in New York. Imagine that—a farmer with no formal training, beating out other actors on an international stage.

He proved that talent is not about the length of exposure or the number of workshops. Sometimes, “authenticity” or being true to oneself is a person’s most powerful weapon. This success is a slap in the face to those who belittle provincials and proof that Filipino talent can compete with the rest of the world.

The Choice of Silence

After the success, the award win, and the media attention, Jeyrick has everything in his hands. He can continue in showbiz. He can become a regular artist. He can embrace the glow of fame.

But here Jeyrick once again showed who he really is.

Instead of chasing the noise of Manila, he chose to return to the province. He returned to the Mountain Province. He returned to farming.

Why? Because for Jeyrick, true happiness is not measured by the number of likes, the number of fans, or the glitter of the trophy. True happiness for him is a simple life with his family, growing vegetables, and a peaceful environment.

He hasn’t completely disappeared. He still appears in the media occasionally when there are select projects. But his priorities are clear: Silence over fame. Family over money.

Her Life Now

Now, if you go to the Mountain Province, you might encounter Jeyrick. Not as a famous celebrity with a bodyguard, but as a simple young man helping out on the farm.

According to reports, he is now busy helping his family’s livelihood. He still farms. He lives a life far from the intrigue and controversy of showbiz.

However, it cannot be denied that he is still popular. When tourists or fellow countrymen see him, many still come up to take pictures. And as a naturally kind person, he greets them with a smile.

He also serves as an inspiration to the youth, especially those from the provinces. He showed that origin is not an obstacle to achieving dreams. He showed that an Igorot farmer can make it to New York and win Best Actor. And most of all, he showed that returning to one’s roots is not a sign of failure, but a sign of love for one’s own culture and identity.

The Lesson of Carrot Man

Jeyrick Sigmaton’s story is not just a story of rise. It’s a story of humility.

In today’s world where everyone wants to be famous, everyone wants to be an influencer, and everyone is thirsty for attention, Carrot Man is a reminder that there are things more important than fame.

His decision to remain a farmer despite the opportunity to become a big artist shows his strong principles. He did not go with the flow. He did not let the system swallow him up. He remained Jeyrick—the shy, kind, and hardworking Igorot.

So if you ask where Carrot Man is now? He’s there, happy with the crops, happy with his family, and happy with the life he chose. A true lodi who deserves to be admired not just because of his handsome face, but because of the beauty of his heart and principles.