Anchored By Love: Diego Castro On Fatherhood, Legacy, And The News
From acting to cooking and now delivering the news, Diego Castro has lived many lives, each one shaped by the legacy of his late parents, broadcasting icons Angelo Castro Jr. and June Keithley
Angelo Diego Castro III, or Diego Castro to many, first came into the limelight in the 1990s as one of the cast members of the ABS-CBN youth-oriented show Gimik, alongside Judy Ann Santos and the late Rico Yan. He went on to appear in various shows and films, including Growing Up, a rival show to Gimik.
After many years away from the screen—and a stint in the restaurant industry—Diego returned to television not as an actor, but as a newscaster, the same field his parents once graced. Today, he anchors the news on TV5’s One News Channel with his wife, journalist Angela Lagunzad-Castro.
But beyond the newsroom, Diego plays his most important role yet: father to four and grandfather to one.
From Acting to the Newsroom
Transitioning into broadcasting was a natural move for Diego. His time in showbiz helped him grow comfortable on camera.
“Acting was something I felt was natural to me. I love being in front of the camera. Nothing really pushed me to dabble in being a newscaster. It came naturally. It’s in my blood,” he said.
Diego’s father, Angelo, once dabbled in acting too. But it was Angela who helped nudge him into the news.
“She was passionate about the industry,” he beamed.
With both parents having had storied media careers, comparisons were inevitable.
“Even if people don’t outwardly say it, there is and will always be a level of comparison,” he admitted. “Things like ‘he’s not as good as his parents.’ Even if I feel I am doing well, there is a peg.”
Still, Diego carries that legacy with quiet pride. He believes his parents would have reminded him to stay innovative, especially in today’s fast-paced media landscape.
“News and stories come fast and more entertainingly now due to social media,” he said. “We in the traditional media have to find a way to present stories fast yet truthfully to keep the audience engaged.”
Among the many lessons he carries from his father, integrity stands out.
“Money should never be the reason for doing or not doing things. He always emphasized doing the right things,” he shared. “Also, family is the most important in one’s life.”
Life at Home
Off-camera, Diego is very much a family man. He spends his free time with Angela and his four children. His daughters are now grown and thriving in their careers, while his 17-year-old son keeps him grounded.
“When they need me, I’m just here,” he said. “My son is still finding his way, so I try to guide him as best as I can.”
Fatherhood, Diego reflects, taught him to lead with intention.
“It taught me that I should always do what’s right. Anything I do today may impact my children’s future. My dad’s greatness opened doors for me, and I want to do the same for them.”
Now, Diego is embracing another chapter: being a young grandfather to Scott, his daughter Rafa’s son with Joaquin Domagoso.
“Having a grandchild is a constant reminder that life is fast and short,” he said. “Every time I see him and he gets bigger, I am reminded that I am getting older and therefore I should value the time I have with people I love.”
Working With His Partner—and Staying Grounded
Diego shares anchor duties with Angela, his partner in life and work. And while working together in media could pose challenges, he says the friendly competition keeps things interesting.
“Angela and I always challenge each other. We are also on the same show, so we engage in friendly banter regularly just to keep us prepared,” he grinned.
Before settling back into media, Diego also explored a passion for food. He studied culinary arts and even opened restaurants, but eventually realized his calling was still in front of the camera.
“I love cooking, but not as a job. More like a hobby,” he said. “I thought it could replace my TV career, but I realized I also love my work now.”
A Father’s Quiet Strength
For Diego, fatherhood is full of unseen labor and quiet fulfillment.
“Being a dad is often overlooked by many. It’s not easy, but we have to remember that being a dad means working hard and protecting our family, all without expecting a reward.”
“I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s what we’re supposed to do. I love it.”
He may have set aside acting, but Diego Castro has never stopped performing his most meaningful role—one built on love, responsibility, and integrity. Whether behind the camera or at home, Diego’s role as a storyteller—and as a father—remains the one that matters most.
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