Chef and content creator Ninong Ry may be best known for his high-energy cooking content and humorous kitchen experiments, but during MEGA Prime Foods’ 50th anniversary celebration, he revealed how fatherhood has shaped him and his purpose.
“Life became more hectic, but also more joyful. I sleep around five in the morning,” he said, talking about how much his life has changed since becoming a dad.
Even though being a new father is exhausting, he shared how he continues to find joy in the small things.
“It’s not one big thing that brings happiness. It’s a bunch of little moments coming together,” he said.
When asked what fatherhood has taught him, he answered, “Patience.”
“I discovered that I could actually be more patient. I didn’t think I could. I come from a world where everything moves fast. But if you really have a goal, you have to be patient. You can’t assume the worst in everything,” explained Ninong Ry.
That shift in mindset has changed how he sees both life and work. Looking ahead, Ninong Ry hopes to pass on one important lesson to his child: hard work.
“I’m not the most talented person in the world, but I’m hardworking. I want my child to inherit that,” he stated.
But even as he focused on being a dad and creating content, he recently found himself caught in an online drama after someone on Reddit called his recipes too “basic.”
“My first thought was, this isn’t a real person. I felt like it was just rage bait, and it worked. They got the reaction they wanted. I mean, honestly, they were right…my recipes are basic. And my followers were also right, because the point is anyone can cook. Anyone is capable,” he told Manila Standard Life.
Instead of getting mad, he took the comment in stride. He said the criticism just reminded him why he started in the first place: to show people that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.
“We’re breaking down the barrier to entry. I never claimed to be a chef. I don’t even wear an apron, so it’s more relatable,” the content creator continued.
That down-to-earth vibe is what keeps people coming back to his content. Whether it’s easy ulam ideas or fun kitchen hacks, his videos connect with everyday Filipinos.
“Their support is solid. They themselves say, ‘We love this because we understand it,’” he said.
When it comes to standing out in a crowded space full of influencers, Ninong Ry keeps things simple: he just stays true to himself.
“There’s no competition. All content creators are my friends. I just focus on being me. When you are yourself, no one can copy you,” added Ninong Ry.
He also had some advice for people who want to start making content but are too scared to begin.
“Every day that passes is a day wasted. If you want it, do it now. Upload it. Then, be consistent,” he shared.
