From starting out in supporting roles as one of the industry’s breakthrough artists, Alden has become one of the most sought-after actors of his generation, starring in countless series and movies. For him, being able to share meaningful stories, portray significant roles, and evoke emotions in audiences has helped him understand himself better and define his place in the industry. Brands and endorsements continue to stay because of his generosity and commitment. With the opportunities that came his way, Alden learned how to use his platform to help others.

For many years, Alden has actively shared his success in various organizations and through his own AR Foundation, which is dedicated to helping those in need and providing scholarships to students. “I think the most pivotal ones are the lives that  I was able to touch and kaya siguro ako nalagay dito sa sitwasyon, I think my mission is to be a vessel, and give out all the blessings that's coming in the way”, Alden reflected when asked about the highlight of his 15 years in the business. He added, “Iba kasi yung joy and happiness that I feel whenever I'm able to help in my own small way sa mga taong nangangailangan especially in terms of education, I think yun yung maibibigay ko sa kanila–something that cannot be stolen and that they can carry with them until tumanda na sila.”

Even before staging a fan meet, Alden celebrated his anniversary with an outreach tour, “ARXV Care-a-van” last Sunday, December 7 where he visited institutions closest to his heart–Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, East Ave Medical Center and Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) Animal Rehabilitation Center. For him, being involved in such activities is his way of giving back to the community.

Recently, Alden Richards has been hailed as one of Anak TV’s MAKAbata Star Hall of Famers, alongside Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera, Atom Araullo, Drew Arellano, Kim Atienza, Kara David, Vicky Morales and veteran journalists Mel Tiangco, Jessica Soho and Mike Enriquez. “Maraming salamat po for the continuous recognition since I started my career in the past 15 years. I think it's very essential for us public figures to be given this kind of recognition so that it can ground us and to give us even more fuel to continue what we have started to do”. Highlighting that he will continue to use his platform in spreading kindness and social responsibilities that will give inspiration to others–especially the youth who look up to him.

Furthermore, as part of Sparkle’s advocacy campaign, Alden even led the “Click Kindness” initiative, which aims to spread kindness both online and offline. Given the challenges the country is facing, he believes that now is the perfect time to rethink and control our actions toward one another.

Moving forward, Alden believes there is much more in store for his career, and he is excited for what lies ahead. “Sabi ko nga, ‘malayo na pero malayo pa’. In the past 15 years, everything felt planned and thought out, pero syempre hindi natin tatanggalin yung aspetong yun. But I just want the next 15 years in the industry to be full of surprises. I want my journey to present itself, because of course, it's not going to be easy.” He added that staying in the business is at the heart of his journey, and with changing times, it is important to continuously reinvent oneself as a celebrity.

Mark your calendars for the first ever virtual reality concert in the Philippines, Alden’s Reality (AR), happening this December 8.