Marlo Mortel Reveals Surprising Family Connection to Charlene Gonzalez and the Muhlach Twins

Singer-actor Marlo Mortel has officially set the record straight regarding his celebrity lineage. During a recent media conference for his first vertical movie project, Caught in the Act, Marlo revealed a secret he has kept since the beginning of his career: he is the cousin of actress and former beauty queen Charlene Gonzalez.

A Secret Kept for Years

For a long time, Marlo chose to build his name in the industry without relying on his famous relatives. While many knew he was discovered by the late star builder German "Kuya Germs" Moreno, Marlo never publicly mentioned his connection to the Gonzalez and Muhlach families.

According to Marlo, his aunt is actually Elvie Gonzalez, Charlene’s mother. This makes Charlene his first cousin and makes the popular Muhlach twins, Andres and Atasha, his niece and nephew.

The Family Connection Explained

Marlo clarified the family tree during his interview with Cabinet Files. He explained that his grandfather and Charlene’s grandmother are siblings.

"Hindi kasi alam ng mga tao kaya ako napapunta sa Viva, dinala ako dito ng auntie ko... si Auntie Elvie Gonzalez," Marlo shared. (People didn't know how I ended up with Viva; my aunt, Auntie Elvie Gonzalez, brought me here.)

Despite his aunt acting as his manager now, Marlo emphasizes that he has high respect for the work he had to put in to reach his current status.

Missed Opportunities: "I Love You Since 1892"

The revelation also shed light on a missed opportunity for the actor. 

Marlo admitted that he was "two weeks late" in landing the iconic role of Juanito Alfonso in the Wattpad-inspired series I Love You Since 1892.

While many fans were hoping Marlo would play the role, it eventually went to Jerome Ponce. Marlo revealed that had he signed his contract with Viva just two weeks earlier, there was a high possibility he would have been the one to portray the beloved character.

Moving Forward with 'Caught in the Act'

Now a contract star of Viva Artists Agency since January 2026, Marlo is focused on his new vertical movie project under Viva Movie Box. Though he has a legendary family backing him, Marlo continues to prove that his talent and dedication are what truly define his career in Philippine showbiz.