Building a name as an actor is one thing, but getting recognition for the work that you did is a fulfillment like no other.  

For Elijah Canlas, being acknowledged by the veteran actors that came before him in the industry is a validation.  

“Kapag may mga artista na pinapanood ko simula bata palang ako or ‘pag nagpakilala ako, sasabihin nila ‘they know my work,’ laking bagay ‘nun, laking validation ‘nun for an actor like me,” Elijah told PUSH ABS-CBN.  

WATCH: Elijah Canlas on being recognized by other actors: 'Kilig malala' | PUSH TV

The 24-year-old actor had described the feeling of getting a well-deserved validation from the veterans: “Kilig malala.” 

Being extremely focused on his craft, Elijah admitted that he does not dwell on praises and compliments, but he greatly appreciates them. 

“Ako, I’m very harsh on myself. And parang I do this for fun also, I’m very passionate about. I don’t consider those factors,” he said.  

Last March 29 and 30, Elijah organized the second annual “JM Canlas Badminton Cup” that was held at Antonio Sports Center in Quezon City, in remembrance of his late brother, Jamile Matthew or JM, who was a lover of the sport. 

READ: Elijah Canlas holds 2nd annual 'JM Canlas Badminton Cup'

Together with the KULIT (Kalinga, Unawa at Linang sa Isip at Taglay) Foundation and his family, the actor strives to help teenagers who are struggling with mental health and raise awareness about the serious concern that is rampant in today’s society.  

READ: Elijah Canlas honors late brother JM in badminton cup: 'Gusto namin madami kaming matulungan'

“Gusto namin pro-active, gusto namin madami kaming matulungan like teens who are struggling with their mental health, parents who don’t really understand what mental health is,” he told PUSH ABS-CBN.  “We formed this organization, the KULIT foundation, it’s a non-profit organization that deals a lot with teens and adolescents and their mental health issues. We hold seminars, therapies, workshops, and just educating people in general with the help of mental health professionals. And itong badminton cup is a way of raising funds to do those programs.” 

Elijah’s brother, JM, died on August 3, 2023, at the age of 17. He was struggling with mental health during his last days, the actor confirmed.  

Known for his versatility as an actor, he played several roles in some of the highly acclaimed television series and movies.  

One of the notable roles he played was Cairo, the other half of the popular BL pairing in the 2021 series Game Boys that eventually had its movie version.  

In 2022, he also played the role of Lance in the psychological thriller About Us But Not About Us, with the veteran actor Romnick Sarmenta.  

But perhaps, his most popular performance to date is his portrayal of Archie in the mystery drama series Senior High in 2023 that eventually had its sequel High Street in the following year. His dynamic pairing with Xyriel Manabat, who played Roxie, was loved by the audiences. 

Elijah also made a short appearance in the top-rating television series FPJ's Batang Quiapo of Coco Martin, portraying the role of Pablo Caballero.