{"id":225420,"date":"2025-10-19T15:49:39","date_gmt":"2025-10-19T15:49:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/225420\/"},"modified":"2025-10-19T15:49:39","modified_gmt":"2025-10-19T15:49:39","slug":"who-is-matthew-lhuillier-pep-ph","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/225420\/","title":{"rendered":"Who is Matthew Lhuillier? | PEP.ph"},"content":{"rendered":"

Neither overnight public attention nor inherited fortune seems to rattle Matthew Lhuillier.<\/p>\n

At 28, the young chef-entrepreneur knows the ball is in his court, and he\u2019s raring to go.<\/p>\n

As the founder of Bisaya Brew, he\u2019s learned the tricks of the trade from both sides of his lineage: the Lhuilliers\u2019 business acumen and the Maitland-Smiths\u2019 artistry.<\/p>\n

Those who meet him say he\u2019s keyed up yet composed, tickled pink by small wins but always focused on the long game.<\/p>\n

He\u2019s a clutch player in more ways than one, laying groundwork while everyone else is focused on the noise.<\/p>\n

To some, the online chatter about his personal life feels like a farce, but, Matthew\u2019s story runs on a measured, unhurried rhythm.<\/p>\n

He represents a generation of heirs rewriting what legacy looks like in this generation.<\/p>\n

Here’s what PEP knows about this fourth-gen member of the M. Lhuillier family.<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nMatthew Edouard Maitland-Smith Lhuillier <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @mlullers<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

Read: Chie Filomeno in her healing era; Matthew Lhuillier reacts<\/a><\/p>\n

EARLY LIFE
\nFull Name<\/p>\n

Matthew is endearingly called Matt by his inner circle and regarded as the family\u2019s \u201csunshine boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

But, on paper, his full name stands on the shoulders of two illustrious Cebuano ancestral lines: Matthew Edouard Maitland-Smith Lhuillier.<\/p>\n

Age, Birthday, Zodiac Signs<\/p>\n

Born on September 3, 1997, Matthew is 28 years old.<\/p>\n

His birth under the Virgo sign reflects a personality that is perfectionist, solution-oriented, and grounded\u2014traits often attributed to the sign ruled by Mercury, the planet of intellect and precision.<\/p>\n

In Chinese astrology, he falls under the Fire Ox, a symbol of perseverance, strength, and the drive to carve one\u2019s own path despite towering expectations.<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nMatthew Lhuillier (center) celebrates his birthday with dad Michael Lhuillier (left) and brother Myles Lhuillier (right). <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @michael.lhuillier<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

For his 28th birthday, Matthew\u2019s loved ones surprised him with a cake that perfectly captured his nickname, the \u201csunshine boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

The confection from Cakeology Cebu was a cheerful yellow creation topped with a smiling sun, complete with blushing cheeks and bright rays extending from its crown.<\/p>\n

Around the base, small printed cutouts of beer embellish it, while the red lettering spells out \u201cHappy Birthday Matthew.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hometown<\/p>\n

Though much of Matthew\u2019s childhood was shaped by his years in California, USA, his roots remain deeply Cebuano.<\/p>\n

His family maintains their home inside Maria Luisa Estate Park in Cebu City, an enclave known for its serene hills, expansive views, and generations of Cebu\u2019s most established families.<\/p>\n

Matthew grew up surrounded by a dual sense of home that always circles back to the island where both sides of his family built their legacies.<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\n(L-R) Myles Lhuillier, MJ Lhuillier, Joanna Maitland-Smith Lhuillier, Matthew Lhuillier, Michael L. Lhuiller. <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @michael.lhuillier<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

Today, he channels that heritage through Bisaya Brew, a proudly local brand that celebrates the distinct flavors and identity of the Visayas.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s his way of honoring where he came from, while also contributing to its evolving culture.<\/p>\n

Family<\/p>\n

Matthew is the middle child of Michael L. Lhuillier, CEO and President of the M Lhuillier Financial Services Group of Companies.<\/p>\n

His mother, Joanna Maitland-Smith Lhuillier, is the daughter of the late Robert \u201cBob\u201d Maitland-Smith, the British designer behind the globally recognized luxury brand that carries his name.<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nMatthew Lhuillier (center) with parents Michael L. Lhuillier (left) and Joanna Maitland-Smith Lhuillier (right) <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @michael.lhuillier<\/p>\n


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ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

He grew up alongside his brothers, Michael James and Myles, in a close-knit household that valued adventure and togetherness.<\/p>\n

The family often traveled through road trips across California, ski escapades in Europe, and boating holidays around Cebu were part of their rhythm.<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nThe Lhuillier family goes boating <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Threads | @joannamslhuillier<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

EDUCATION<\/p>\n

According to his LinkedIn profile, Matthew completed high school at Viewpoint School in Calabasas, California.<\/p>\n

Before that, he attended Halstrom Academy in California\u2014a private school that provides one-to-one, flexible learning environment for students in grades 6-12.<\/p>\n

Locally, he attended Sacred Heart School \u2013 Ateneo de Cebu.<\/p>\n

Matthew later pursued higher education across several renowned institutions.<\/p>\n

He took courses at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, honing his skills in food and beverage management, and attended Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, where he explored the business side of operations.<\/p>\n

In 2022, he graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Extension, capping off years of culinary training, management insight, and hospitality expertise.<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nMatthew Lhuillier graduates from UCLA <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @michael.lhuillier<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

CAREER<\/p>\n

Matthew formally introduces himself as the founder and CEO of Bisaya Brew, a homegrown craft beverage company inspired by the rich flavors and culture of the Visayas region.<\/p>\n

\u201cGoing into the industry as a chef, I thought I was well-prepared,\u201d he once said in a vodcast hosted by “Cebuana” hitmaker Karencitta.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I\u2019ll tell you, I became more of a scientist making this beer.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis blend of culinary creativity and scientific discipline has successfully fused tradition with innovation, crafting a beverage that celebrates the rich flavors, stories, and heritage of the Visayas.\u201d<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nBisaya Brew <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @mlullers<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

Before Bisaya Brew came to fruition in 2022, Matthew built a strong foundation through an impressive mix of international work experience:<\/p>\n


\nFood and Beverage Consultant, La Vie Lifestyle (Jan 2024 \u2013 present)
\nChief Operations Officer, ML Foods (Jan 2024 \u2013 present)
\nCustomer Service Specialist, JPMorgan Chase, Los Angeles (Apr 2021 \u2013 May 2024)
\nHome Gourmet Personal Chef Service, Self-Employed (Feb 2023 \u2013 Feb 2024)
\nSales Executive, Public Storage (Mar 2022 \u2013 Apr 2023)
\nSous Chef, The Peninsula Hotels (Jan 2020 \u2013 May 2022)
\nRoom Sales Intern, Marco Polo Hotels Cebu (May 2019 \u2013 Feb 2020) <\/p>\n


\n\"Chef
\n
\n
\nMatthew Lhuillier <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @michael.lhuillier<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

PERSONAL LIFE
\nHobbies<\/p>\n

Sports and speed run deep in the Lhuillier household.<\/p>\n

A 2020 Tatler feature on Michael L. Lhuillier revealed that he and his three sons\u2014Michael James, Matthew, and Myles\u2014share a passion for both ball games and cars.<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
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\nFather-son Michael and Matthew root for NFL team Los Angeles Rams at the Super Bowl LVI. <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @michael.lhuillier<\/p>\n


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ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

When everyone\u2019s home, half-court two-on-two basketball games are their go-to bonding ritual.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe problem is, they all now tower over me,\u201d their father joked, \u201cso it has become more and more difficult for me to keep up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Off the court, their shared enthusiasm extends to the garage.<\/p>\n

Michael L. Lhuillier\u2019s collection of sports cars has become something of a family project, with his sons eagerly researching models, reading reviews, and scouting the classifieds for new additions.<\/p>\n

\u201cI then get consensus for the next car to add or delete from the lot,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
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\nMatthew Lhuillier as a participant in the 2024 Tour de Cebu Historic Sports Car Rally, driving a 1959 Porsche 356 Speedster. <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @tourdecebu<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

Certified Dog Person<\/p>\n

The Lhuilliers are also known dog lovers.<\/p>\n

Matthew, in particular, often appears in family photos with their golden retriever, Bear\u2014a fitting companion for someone affectionately called the \u201csunshine boy.\u201d<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nMatthew Lhuillier with the family golden retriever, Bear <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @michael.lhuillier<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

In 2018, the family expanded their pack with Coco and Chanel, a pair of German Shepherds who quickly became fixtures in their household.<\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nMichael James Lhuillier (left) and Matthew Lhuillier (right) with their pet German Shepherds: Coco and Chanel. <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from Instagram | @michael.lhuillier<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

Mental Health<\/p>\n

Beyond his sunny disposition, Matthew has also spoken candidly about mental health.<\/p>\n

In a May 2025 episode of Cebuana singer Karencitta\u2019s vodcast, he related, \u201cI definitely have had challenges with anxiety, absolutely.<\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

\u201cOnly recently do I feel like I’ve finally really become fully confident in myself. I guess “stable” would be the best way to put it.\u201d<\/p>\n

He emphasized the importance of self-work and balance: \u201cWhat I’ve found is you have to focus on yourself.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to prioritize yourself. You have to prioritize your health.<\/p>\n

\u201cFind the people that are healthy for you, and surround yourself with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

His coping philosophy leans on being more mindful of his perspective.<\/p>\n

\u201cI always make the biggest effort and to never feel sorry for myself. And always try to look at things in a positive way,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I feel affected by someone else, I just try to look at it like I feel bad for that person. I try. For me, that at least works.\u201d<\/p>\n


\n\"Entrepreneur
\n
\n
\nMatthew Lhuillier talks about anxiety at The Karencitta Show. <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Screengrab from YouTube | The Karencitta Show<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

Matthew added: \u201cStart with having a healthy routine. That was something that helped me a lot. Just continue to learn and educate yourself.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat’s super important because the day that you kind of give up on that and stop learning new things…<\/p>\n

\u201cThe most important thing is building that community around you that is really supportive.\u201d<\/p>\n

Philanthropy<\/p>\n

Matthew has been an Administrative Aide for the MLhuillier Cares Foundation since 2018, contributing to its disaster and humanitarian relief operations.<\/p>\n

The foundation\u2019s mission centers on rebuilding and improving schools in underserved communities.<\/p>\n

It also provides scholarships to deserving students, ensuring access to education for those with limited means.<\/p>\n

Matthew’s rumored relationship with Chie Filomeno<\/p>\n

In late September 2025, Matthew\u2019s name began circulating online after he was linked to actress Chie Filomeno.<\/p>\n

The speculation started when Chie promoted Bisaya Brew, Matthew\u2019s craft beer brand, on her Instagram Story on September 22, 2025.<\/p>\n

She wrote, \u201cNot a fan of beer normally, but gaaahdeym this @bisayabrew changed it. Lami kaayo ni nga beer, way atik [This beer is so good, no joke].\u201d<\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n


\n\"Chie
\n
\n
\nChie Filomeno posts about Bisaya Brew beer <\/p>\n

Photo\/s: Instagram<\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

Days later, Chie publicly appealed to the public to spare Matthew\u2019s family from the issue.<\/p>\n

In a statement shared through her Instagram Stories on September 29, 2025, she wrote:<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been reading and hearing a lot these past few days and I ask that my past relationship, my present life, and the Lhuillier family be left out of this issue.<\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey don\u2019t deserve to be dragged into something that has nothing to do with them. No further statements will be made at this time.<\/p>\n

\u201cI kindly ask that people refrain from speculation or intrusions into my private affairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

She followed it up with another message that read, \u201cI may be a public figure, but I am not public property. I ask that my private life remain private.\u201d<\/p>\n

Weeks later, on October 17, 2025, Chie posted a carousel of photos with the caption hinting at personal healing following her breakup with actor Jake Cuenca.<\/p>\n

Among the first to comment on her post was Matthew, using his Instagram handle @mlullers.<\/p>\n

His comment\u2014a single American flag emoji\u2014drew curiosity among netizens, interpreted by some as a subtle nod to freedom.<\/p>\n

Chie responded with a plane emoji, further fueling lighthearted speculation about their rumored connection.<\/p>\n


\n\"Matthew
\n
\n <\/p>\n

Matthew Lhuillier and Chie Filomeno’s interaction on Instagram <\/p>\n


\n <\/p>\n

ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW \u2193 <\/p>\n

Neither party has confirmed nor denied the relationship.<\/p>\n

Read: Chie Filomeno seeks privacy amid Matthew Lhuillier rumors<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Neither overnight public attention nor inherited fortune seems to rattle Matthew Lhuillier. At 28, the young chef-entrepreneur knows…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":225421,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[32],"tags":[64,63,5612,447,136523,136522,134,3637,136521],"class_list":{"0":"post-225420","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-celebrities","8":"tag-au","9":"tag-australia","10":"tag-businesses","11":"tag-celebrities","12":"tag-dating-history","13":"tag-educational-background","14":"tag-entertainment","15":"tag-relationships","16":"tag-who-is-matthew-lhuillier"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/225420","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=225420"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/225420\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/225421"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=225420"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=225420"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=225420"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}