Diwata joined the second of season of It’s Showtime’s impersonation segment, Kalokalike, in 2013.
In the bustling town of Orion, Bataan, Christopher Diwata’s life has taken a remarkable turn, transforming him from a small-town dreamer into a national sensation. Twelve years ago, Diwata stepped onto the It’s Showtime stage, auditioning for the Kalokalike segment as Twilight heartthrob Taylor Lautner.
His thick accent and quirky delivery of lines like “What Haffen, Vella” sparked laughter and memes, initially making him the subject of online jest. Little did he know, that moment would lay the foundation for a viral resurgence a decade later, warming the hearts of millions and cementing his zero-to-hero story.
Fast forward to 2025, a clip from Diwata’s 2013 It’s Showtime performance resurfaced, igniting a firestorm of nostalgia and admiration across social media. The now-iconic “What Haffen, Vella” line became a viral hit, with platforms like Netflix and TikTok leveraging its original audio to amass millions of views. What began as a humorous audition morphed into a cultural phenomenon, with netizens embracing Diwata’s authenticity and resilience. His story, rooted in humble beginnings and financial struggles, struck a chord, turning him into a symbol of hope and perseverance.
Diwata’s rise didn’t stop at viral fame. Brands quickly took notice, with Shopee leading the charge by featuring him in their May 2025 payday sale campaign. Fast-food chain Mang Inasal and appliance store Astron followed suit, showcasing Diwata in their social media promotions. These endorsements marked a significant shift in his life, providing financial relief from years of debt and hardship.
In an interview with ABS-CBN News, Diwata reflected on his journey: “Nakakakilabot…nagulat ako. Kung wala ‘yun, wala ako sa kinakalagyan ko ngayon.” His gratitude for the opportunities was palpable, resonating deeply with fans who saw him as one of their own.
Social media platforms buzzed with support. A Facebook commenter praised Shopee, stating, “Salamat sa Shopee for opening doors of opportunities for him. The only diwata that deserves a break.”
On a GMA News post, another netizen echoed the sentiment: “We made the right person famous,” capturing the collective pride in Diwata’s success.
MJ de Guzman, in a Facebook post, marveled at the unpredictability of Diwata’s journey: “Who would’ve thought Christopher Diwata’s hilariously iconic ‘What Haffen, Vella’…would lead to a major Shopee endorsement?” The outpouring of love highlighted a rare moment where the internet rallied behind a genuinely deserving figure.
Diwata’s story has also sparked excitement about his future. Sharing his dream of joining Batang Quiapo, the country’s highest-rated TV drama, he has fans eagerly speculating about a potential cameo.
His journey from a laughed-at audition to a beloved figure embodies the Filipino spirit of resilience, proving that even the most unlikely moments can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
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