JM was born in a poor family and almost failed to finish his studies. Because of their family's hardships, his mother discouraged him from aspiring to become a singer, and told him to instead focus on his studies. But even after graduating in college and getting a high paying job, JM knew that something was missing in his life. With support from his stepfather and his once skeptical mother, JM joined Tawag ng Tanghalan where he gained not just money and fame, but more important life lessons that helped him unlock his dreams.