Biography

Rusty is the son of Aguido Yabut (of Minalin, Pampanga) and Irene Santos. He grew up in San Fernando on his mother's side as both his parents died when he was young.

His interest in bodybuilding led him to the movies, as he was introduced to the movie scene by Jess Lapid Sr.+ (Who was then part of production and lighting etc).

While in the movies, he managed a gym (in New Manila, Camelot, Club Filipino etc)where fellow movie actors into physical fitness enjoyed lifetime membership (Charlie Davao +, Paquito Diaz +, Tony Ferrer, ER Ejercito, Cesar Montano, etc)

He was active in bodybuilding competitions and was into Arnis with best buddy Roland Dantes (+).

In his retirement days he gets invited to judge in bodybuilding competitions and Arnis workshops/lessons.

He continued weightlifting well into his 80s but slowed down in recent years due to minor health issues (vertigo).

At 85, he remains active and visible in his social circles.
- IMDb mini biography by: CM Santos

Founded the Powerlifting Association of the Philippines in 1960 with Jo Ramos (Mr. Philippines 1953), Tom Ortega (pioneer of gym business in the Philippines), Rolando Pintoy (aka Roland Dantes), Stan Carbungco (Mr. Philippines 1957 and 1959).

Joined the Philippine Navy in 1963 - 1966.

Bosom buddies with Mr. Roland Dantes ("Mr. Philippines" bodybuilder 1969-1980) whose filmography includes The Pacific Connection. They did Arnis: Sticks of Death together.

Throughout his film career, he managed the Rusty Santos Gym where fellow actors enjoyed lifetime membership (e.g. Eddie Gutierrez, Charlie Davao, Paquito Diaz, Lito Legazpi, ER Ejercito, Gardo Versoza, Cesar Montano, Dan Fernandez, Tony Ferrer, Mark Gil, Vanessa Escano, Gretchen Barretto, Bunny Paras, Sharmaine Arnaiz to name a few).