Jacob Ernest Tolentino, also known as Jay Tolentino. He was born on October 27, 1982 in Bayanan, Muntinlupa Philippines. He graduated from his College with an Associate in Hotel and Restaurant Management course at the Philippine College of Arts and Technology.

Jay has steadily pursued his passion for songwriting and music production despite the demands of his profession. Working as a Chief Cook aboard an international passenger ship, a successful blend of two distinct worlds: culinary arts and music.

A member of the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (FILSCAP) since 2019, Jay’s musical journey began early. Growing up in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, he discovered his love for music and sports during his high school and college years. “Music and sports have always been a big part of my life. I played several instruments—guitar, keyboard, ukulele, and drums—and participated in volleyball and table tennis,” he shared. His talent in sports earned him the Athlete of the Year Award in 2001 at the Philippine College of Arts and Technology, where he also received the Excellence in Volleyball Award. But it was in music where his heart truly lay.

At 18, Jay began writing songs, a natural evolution from his earlier passion for writing short stories and poetry. “I found songwriting easier than writing long scripts or books,” he admitted. Over time, music became his primary outlet for expression, and by 2019, he had begun releasing his original songs on various digital platforms. “It felt liberating to finally share my music with the world. Since then, I’ve participated in numerous music events like open mic sessions and busking performances, which have helped me grow as an artist,” he recalled

Jay’s dedication to his craft has garnered him recognition in the music industry. In 2022, he was awarded the “Remarkable Indie Artist and Composer of the Year” at the 3rd Southeast Asian Achievement Award held at the Manila Grand Opera Casino and Hotel. He was also a weekly finalist in the “A Song of Praise Music Festival” in 2018 for his song “Diyos Na Banal.”

Though he is a chef by profession, music is where Jay’s true passion lies. His musical influences range from acoustic icon Nyoy Volante, who he describes as his hero, to international songwriters like Max Martin and Jorgen Elofson. He also draws inspiration from Christian music artists such as Hillsong and Gary Valenciano. “Nyoy Volante was a big inspiration for me. I told myself if he could write and perform his own songs, then I could, too,” Jay explained. His admiration for these artists shaped his own songwriting style, particularly in the genres of OPM (Original Pilipino Music) and Christian music.

Written by John Rey Malto