For actor and martial artist Ian Ignacio, physical endurance has always been part of the job.
Years of filming fight scenes, training for combat-heavy roles, and working long hours on set have taught him how demanding the industry can be on the body.
Recently, however, Ignacio has begun channeling that same discipline into a new venture — the wellness industry.
The action star is among the owners of Dermeistra, a skin and wellness clinic that recently opened at Makati Central Square.
During the launch event, Ignacio shared that the idea behind the clinic is rooted in the same principle that guides his martial arts training: proper care should always be intentional and tailored to the individual.
“Ang maganda dito sa Dermeistra, it’s based on science. The treatment is not cut and paste — it’s tailored for you,” he explains.
For someone who frequently spends time under intense studio lighting or shooting in outdoor locations, the focus on skincare and recovery felt like a natural step.
Ignacio noted that while action roles require physical toughness, maintaining the body is just as important as pushing it to its limits.
Even with his new role as an entrepreneur, Ignacio remains fully engaged in the entertainment industry.
In fact, he arrived at the event straight from a shoot.
“Right now, I just came from Subic para sa taping ng ‘Blood vs Duty’,” he says. “I’ll do whatever as long as it showcases my talent.”
The upcoming series brings him together with established actors Richard Gutierrez and Gerald Anderson.
In the project, Ignacio leans into the type of role he has become known for — a formidable antagonist.
“This is my passion. I’m not tied to any contract,” he said. “In ‘Blood vs Duty’, as usual, I showcase my martial arts. I’m more on the villain side and I’m thankful to the production for giving me this opportunity.”
His openness to work with different networks has helped sustain a diverse acting career.
Over the years, Ignacio has appeared in notable television productions such as the Philippine version of “Descendants Of The Sun” and the series “Mga Batang Riles.”
Before stepping in front of the camera, Ignacio’s world revolved around competitive martial arts.
He grew up in San Francisco, where he trained extensively and became part of a competitive fighting circuit.
During those formative years, he also trained under Monsour del Rosario — the Filipino Olympian and action star known for bringing authentic martial arts to local cinema.
Ignacio eventually earned a black belt in Taekwondo and won several gold medals in tournaments.
He was even selected to represent the Philippines in competitions during his younger years.
Although he later pursued academics and graduated with a degree in foreign service from Dominican University of California, martial arts remained central to his life and career.
Today, he also practices Dumog, a traditional Filipino grappling art.
He demonstrated the discipline on screen in the action film “The Trigonal: Fight For Justice,” showcasing techniques rooted in Filipino combat traditions.
For Ignacio, investing in a wellness clinic does not feel like a departure from his identity as a fighter and performer.
Instead, he sees it as a natural continuation of the same mindset.
Training, acting, and entrepreneurship all demand discipline. While fighters prepare their bodies to withstand impact, recovery and long-term care are equally essential.
As he balances business and acting projects, Ignacio continues to follow a philosophy shaped by years of martial arts: strength is not only about pushing harder, but also about taking care of the body that makes everything possible.
Whether performing high-intensity action scenes or helping build a wellness brand, the goal remains consistent — sustaining strength that lasts beyond the spotlight.