#ThrowbackSeries Donita Rose: Conquering new grounds

Donita Rose, one pretty face who graced local cinema has conquered a new ground, where she can showcase her other expertise as a chef at a Filipino supermarket chain in the US. She left show business in 2020.

The Filipino-American actress, TV host, and former MTV Asia VJ has announced on her Instagram account a few months ago that she’s the new Corporate Research and Development Chef of Island Pacific, which has multiple stores in California and Nevada. Island Pacific is owned by Nino Lim, husband of former actress Krista Ranillo.

She shared on her Instagram: “Many of my closest friends have said that I look much happier these days. I attribute much of it to a job I’m passionate about, financial peace, being closer to loved ones, supportive friends and not to mention, the most amazing fans who shower me with never-ending words of encouragement (many visiting me from all over California to support @chirp.n.oink).”

Pretty Chef! Courtesy of Dashofdonita on Instagram

Her plans of going back to the US since the late 1990s had finally come true.  “Maybe someday, I’ll be able to go back to the US, not really to become a big star because a lot of people say that getting the break in that country is difficult,” she shared from a previous interview.

Donita Rose Cavett in real life was previously married to Eric Villarama (2003), got separated in 2016. They have a son named Joshua Paul. Her American father is from Oklahoma and her Filipina mom is from Pangasinan.

MTV VJ days

Donita related from a previous interview that she was chosen as MTV VJ after passing with flying colors the station’s rigorous audition. Particularly, she was chosen because of her good command of English and her easy-to-get-along-with personality.

To be a VJ she said, love for music must be innate in you. Donita of course is a follower of hip hop, R & B, and fast music. “It wasn’t given to me in a silver platter. I auditioned several times. I just trust in the Lord. I’ve been praying for this job. I think it’s a confirmation that God wants this job for me,” she said from an earlier interview with this writer.

While she was in Singapore and enjoying a career-high, Donita was listed as the 12th “Most Gorgeous” woman by Singapore entertainment magazine, ETC., FHM listed her as well as number seven among “Asia’s Sexiest Women.”

She also did her first international film titled Legacy. In the movie, she was paired with actor-singer David Hasselhoff.

A happy childhood

Donita shared that she had a happy childhood since her family is family-oriented. “We are a close-knit family. My family and my other relatives would meet every day for a little get-together in our backyard,” she recalled. “It was really fun.”

When she was younger, Donita wanted to become a marine biologist. That didn’t materialize of course. “So I just took up scuba diving. I dive every now and then, but that’s basically about it,” she said.

Donita is the eldest in a brood of four. She was born in America where she lived for five years. Then her family moved to Subic, Zambales, and eventually to Manila when Mount Pinatubo erupted in 1991.

An inclination for acting

Donita was encouraged by her mom Adelina Ramos Cavett to enter showbiz. The inclination to act came from her mom who is a singer-dance instructor, and who directs stage play for children. Donita used to appear in stage plays when she was a kid.

She was discovered by the late master showman German Moreno when she went to watch GMA 7’s former shows Lunch Date and That’s Entertainment. Then only 17, Donita was asked by German if she wanted to join the show. And the rest is history.

Donita on-screen is the same off-screen. “I’m a very predictable person. I don’t have major mood swings. And I’m a woman of substance,” she quipped.

A Christian herself, Donita makes it a point to read the Bible every day. “I’ve been raised a Christian all my life,” she pointed out. “Now, I have developed a more personal relationship with the Lord. I talk to Him every day. I feel that He is so near to me.”

Above all else, she experiences a greater sense of security. “I know that one day I’ll go to Heaven. And He is there waiting for me. What I like about my life now is that I don’t have to worry about yesterday, today, and tomorrow. I’m very much secured,” she disclosed.

Donita believes that perseverance has its own virtue. There are certain blessings that come from God. And she’s happy and proud of what she has achieved for herself.

Photos courtesy of Ruby Asoy file/ Dashofdonita on Instagram

Reposted from Manila Bulletin online written by the same author: https://mb.com.ph/2021/10/17/throwback-donita-rose-conquering-new-grounds/

#DonitaRose #corporatechef #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph #throwbackseries

 

 

Warner Music Philippines Presents an Epic APT.-themed Performance!

ROSÉ and Bruno Mars fans in Bonifacio High Street were delighted last December 21, 2024 when local musicians from Banda San Jose surprised them with an incredible pop-up performance.

Those who witnessed this musical feat got to hear the record-breaking collaboration between Bruno Mars and Blackpink’s ROSÉ: “APT.”, as well as two songs from the latter’s newest solo album “rosie” – “number one girl” and “toxic till the end.”

To give the crowd something to move and groove to, the band also performed some of Bruno Mars’ greatest hits like “Uptown Funk,” “Just the Way You Are,” and “Locked Out of Heaven.”

 The APT. Formula: two global powerhouses create an irresistible hit

This lively marching band performance comes months after the release of the hit single APT., which has garnered critical acclaim throughout the world.

To date, this collaboration by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars has achieved the feat of being the biggest debut for a male-female duet on YouTube. APT. also debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Philippines Hot 100 charts, and retained this spot for five weeks.

As individual artists, ROSÉ and Bruno Mars have also been breaking records of their own. The former has set the record for the highest monthly listeners on Spotify by a K-Pop artist, which isn’t surprising given the success of her debut album. Meanwhile, Bruno Mars has amassed over 120 million monthly listeners on Spotify, making him the number one artist in the world.

It’s clear that both these musical icons continue to go beyond their already-impressive portfolio, and have cracked the code for producing hit after hit. Whether or not ROSÉ and Bruno Mars do another collaboration, fans are sure to get more amazing music from both of them in the future.

Listen to ROSÉ’s debut album, “rosie,” here.

 #Rose #BrunoMars #APT #WarnerMusicPhilippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Avignon Clinic opens its fourth branch in Alabang, marking the occasion with a grand celebration

Celebrating its fifth year in the industry, Avignon Clinic proudly opens its fourth branch in Filinvest City, Alabang. Nestled in the heart of Alabang, medical aesthetic, wellness and longevity is elevated to new heights at the Avignon Clinic Grand Alabang.

“Grand, not just in size, but in the experience itself,” says Christopher Cachuela, CEO and Founder of Avignon Clinic, reflecting on the clinic’s commitment to elevating exceptional care at their new Filinvest Alabang branch.

Avignon Clinic Grand Alabang exterior

The South branch will offer a range of new services, including Ultherapy Prime, Clear + Brilliant Touch Laser, PicoStar Super Laser, LaserMe, Sofwave and of course Thermage FLX. Specialty centers dedicated to Hair Restoration, Weight Loss Management, Melasma Reduction, Women’s Intimate Wellness and a Vein Center will also be housed in Alabang. With the expertise of its skilled doctors and specialists, this two-story clinic stands as a testament to the future of medical aesthetics—bringing forth the future of medical aesthetics in the country.

“The Alabang clinic is a hybrid hub of advanced medical aesthetics and longevity therapies a bold statement on how we take care of the external appearance alongside the internal well-being of our patients,” shared Cachuela, on setting a new standard for holistic wellness in the local scene. On the wellness and longevity side, Avignon Alabang will offer Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber Therapy, Detox Dome, Cryo Therapies, Robotic Lymphatic Drainage and Hydrocolonics.

Marian Rivera-Dantes, and Dingdong Dantes.

Avignon Clinic’s grand opening was marked by an impressive lineup of distinguished guests who came together for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting to officially inaugurate the new building. Alongside Christopher Cachuela, CEO and Founder of Avignon Clinic, and Benedict Sy, President and Co-Founder of Avignon Clinic, they were joined by prime celebrities like Marian Rivera-Dantes, Dingdong Dantes, Sam Milby and Barbie Forteza. Esteemed entrepreneurs such as Charmaine Lagman, Sofwave Brand Ambassador and co-founder of MC Geometric Proportions and Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdez, Senior Vice President of GMA Network also added to the event’s grandeur. Rounding out the distinguished guest list were Hon. Rozzano Rufino “Ruffy” Biazon, Mayor of Muntinlupa, joined in the celebration.

(From left): Benedict Sy, President and Co-Founder of Avignon Clinic; Tessa Prieto Valdes, Philanthropist;  Christopher Cachuela, CEO and Founder of Avignon Clinic.

Among the notable guests were the multi-awarded boy band SB19, who really roused up the crowd. The PBB Gen 11 Big Winners Kai Montinola, Kolette Modelo and Rain Celmar were also present at the launch.

Janice De Belen, Tom Rodriguez, Ces Drilon, Pinky Tobiano, Kris Bernal, Joy Marcelo, Fabio Ide, Rocco Nacino, Melissa Gohing-Nacino, Bea Luigi Gomez, Hannah Arnold, Meiji Cruz, Sam SantaMaria, Roberta Tamondong, and Bella Ysmael also graced the event. Happy Ongpauco lead her team of seasoned chefs and servers looked after the guests’ gastronomic needs. Florence Ko of Furnitalia masterfully elevated the clinic’s sophisticated and luxurious ambiance.

Their presence, along with other esteemed guests from film and entertainment, added such glamour and excitement to the occasion—undoubtedly exuding a grand aura in the atmosphere.

Here, beauty, longevity, and luxury converge seamlessly, creating a destination where wellness is held in the highest regard, and every visit becomes a rejuvenating escape for all. Avignon Clinic Grand Alabang is located at Block 28 Commerce Ave, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila. You may reach them at 0917 100 2366, 0917 143 2370 or (02) 8812 4420. Connect via socials on Instagram and Facebook @AvignonClinic or via website avignon.clinic.

#AvignonClinicGrandAlabang #fourthbranch #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, and Bituin Escalante to ring in the New Year at Solaire Resort Entertainment City

Step into the New Year with an enchanting celebration at Solaire Resort Entertainment City, where world-class entertainment and indulgent feasts set the stage for an extraordinary 2025. Immerse yourself in the festive ambiance as the property comes alive with opulent decor—extravagant trees shimmering in red, gold, and green hues—capturing the magic of the season.

An Elegant Evening of Star-Studded Entertainment

 Celebrate in grand style at The Grand Ballroom, where a spectacular New Year’s Eve awaits. Be mesmerized by the legendary talents of Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, and Bituin Escalante as they deliver breathtaking performances under the musical direction of maestro Gerard Salonga. While the stars shine on stage, savor an international buffet brimming with global flavors, paired with unlimited beverages. Raise a toast to the New Year in an atmosphere of elegance and joy. The festivities kick off at 7:30 PM. Secure your spot now at https://sec.solaireresort.com/offers/ entertainment/stars-collide-the-solaire-nye-party.

Culinary Delights for Every Palate

Elevate your New Year’s celebrations with curated tasting menus at Solaire’s acclaimed dining venues:

  • Finestra Italian Steakhouse:Relish a luxurious 6-course menu featuring josper-baked oyster, amberjack sashimi, black ink tortelli, pumpkin risotto, butter-seared US tenderloin, and salted caramel saffron ice cream with hazelnut.
  • Yakumi:Experience the artistry of Japanese cuisine with a 6-course menu showcasing delicacies like Wagyu rib eye, foie gras, sea urchin, osechi-style appetizers, grilled lobster, and char-grilled beef, finishing with pecan caramel whisky chocolate, dessert variations including Japanese cheesecake, and calamansi nama chocolate.
  • Red Lantern:Delight in a lavish spread featuring an appetizer trio, braised USDA beef short ribs, wok-fried Boston lobster, and desserts like chilled “snow lady” and baked honey cake with mango sorbet.
  • Waterside:Savor a 5-course feast, from beef tartare to kurobuta pork shoulder and maple-charred heirloom carrots, ending with a decadent pecan caramel mousse. Dance the night away to the Latin beats of the Belissima Party Band.
  • Oasis Garden Café:Enjoy a relaxed festive afternoon tea with Filipino-inspired savory bites like bibingka and pork embutido, paired with sweet delights like pistachio florentine and eggnog mousse. Usher in the New Year with hits performed by The Company.

Beyond Dining: Entertainment Awaits

Explore The Shoppes at Solaire, alive with mesmerizing performances. Enjoy live jazz from bands like the Aristocrats, marvel at the Crystal Ball magician in the Main Lobby, and revel in the melodies of violinist Justerini Brooks.

Celebrate the New Year at Solaire

Make this New Year’s Eve truly unforgettable at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. Reserve your spot now by calling 8888-8888 or emailing restaurantevents@solaireresort.com.

#NewYearatSolaire #SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Solaire Resort Welcomes PSY as New Brand Ambassador

Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Solaire Resort North, two of the most luxurious integrated resorts in Manila, proudly announce the appointment of the record-breaking South Korean singer PSY as their new brand ambassador. The exciting partnership follows PSY’s recent full-house performance ‘K-Swag Legend’ at The Theatre at Solaire on September 14, 2024, showcasing his undeniable popularity in the Philippines.

PSY brings a dynamic energy to Solaire Resort, further solidifying the resort’s reputation as a premier destination for entertainment and luxury.

Cyrus Sherafat, Solaire Resort Executive Vice President, stated, “We are delighted to welcome PSY as our brand ambassador. His artistry and charisma resonate with audiences not just in Korea but around the world. Partnering with PSY underscores our commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences to our guests and deepens our engagement with the vibrant Korean community in the Philippines. We look forward to the exciting collaborations that lie ahead.”

PSY’s role as brand ambassador will encompass various promotional activities, with the aim of enhancing the cultural and entertainment offerings at Solaire Resort.

Solaire Resort invites everyone to join in celebrating this exciting collaboration with PSY, paving the way for unforgettable experiences right in the heart of Manila. Solaire Resort’s new campaign video featuring PSY will be released through various channels, including the official website, Facebook and Instagram.

Call +632 8888 8888 or email reservations@solaireresort.com for inquiries and reservations.

#SolaireResort #PSY #brandambassador #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Stage, Screen, & Everything in Between: A Magnificent Performance by Lea Salonga

 Lea’s remarkable talent continues to illuminate the stage and captivate audiences.

Lea Salonga’s concert, “Stage, Screen, & Everything in Between,” recently took place at The Theatre at Solaire in the Solaire Resort Entertainment City, showcasing magnificent and powerful performances in front of a full audience.

Fans and concertgoers enjoyed an unforgettable evening featuring a thoughtfully curated musical repertoire prepared by Lea herself. The event also included a special appearance by Clay Aiken, who gained recognition as the first runner-up in the second season of American Idol.

Lea Salonga and Nyoy Volante.

The concert highlighted classic songs from some of Salonga’s most iconic roles in “Miss Saigon,” “Les Misérables,” Disney’s “Aladdin,” and “Mulan.” Additionally, she introduced new favorites from the critically acclaimed West End hit show, Stephen Sondheim’s “Old Friends,” alongside many beloved songs from other musical genres. Musical direction was conducted by her brother, Gerard Salonga.

Lea Salonga and Clay Aiken.

Lea also performed holiday songs from her album, “Sounding Joy.” Other songs included in the album are “Christmas Time Is Here/The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Christmas on Broadway,” “All I Want for Christmas,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and “Angels We Have Heard (Glory Be),” the latter being a duet with Clay Aiken, among others.

“This album allowed me to tackle some well-loved holiday classics and collaborate with extremely talented musicians and songwriters on a couple of brand-new songs that we hope will find a special place in your hearts for Christmases to come,” Lea shared in her album dedication. “I hope you enjoy ‘Sounding Joy’ as much as we loved making it for you.”

For Lea, the Christmas season unfolds as a cherished moment filled with the warmth of family gatherings, the joy of friendships rekindled, and the enchanting melodies that weave through the air. This harmonious blend captures the true spirit of the season and is beautifully reflected in the essence of this album.

With more than 45 years of experience in the industry, Lea’s remarkable talent continues to illuminate the stage and captivate audiences.

She’s an exceptional star having appeared and performed in a number of notable performances. Lea is most well-known for her portrayal of Kim in the West End and Broadway hit musical, Miss Saigon, for which she received the Laurence Olivier, Drama Desk, Outer Critics’ Circle and Tony Awards.

Witnessing her perform once again was a truly unforgettable experience; her presence and artistry are nothing short of inspiring.

#LeaSalonga #SolaireEntertainmentCity #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Solaire Resort Entertainment City adds one more show for Lea Salonga’s ‘Stage, Screen & Everything in Between’ concert

 With over 45 years in the industry and awards both locally and internationally, Lea continues to shine and inspire audiences through her artistry. Her remarkable expertise and unwavering dedication have solidified her position as a true luminary in the field.

 

Solaire Resort Entertainment City, co-presented by Union Bank of the Philippines, announces an additional show for Lea Salonga’s “Stage, Screen, & Everything in Between” concert on November 7, 8 PM at The Theatre at Solaire. The November 4 and 5 shows are already sold-out and with this third show, fans can experience an unforgettable evening featuring a curated set list by Lea herself. All three shows include special guest Clay Aiken, recognized for his first runner-up win on the second season of American Idol.

With over 45 years in the industry and awards both locally and internationally, Lea continues to shine and inspire audiences through her artistry. The concert will highlight classics from her most iconic roles in Miss Saigon, Les Misérables, Disney’s Aladdin and Mulan, while also introducing new favorites from the critically acclaimed West End hit show, Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends, along with many other beloved songs from other musical genres.

“Stage, Screen & Everything In Between is a concert we’ve worked so hard to create, and I’m thrilled that we’re adding a third show on November 7! I’m also very excited to announce that my talented friend Clay Aiken will be our special guest for all three shows. Who knows, there might be a couple of musical surprises just in time for Christmas. We cannot wait to perform this show for audiences in Manila!” says Lea.

Experience top-tier entertainment like no other only at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. Purchase your tickets for the November 7 show starting October 9, 6 PM at ticketworld.com.ph or at the Solaire Box Office. For more information, visit sec.solaireresort.com.

#SolaireResortEntertainmentCity #LeaSalonga #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Actress Lovi Poe Advocates Self-Love with New Makeup Collection ‘Love, You by Lovi’

Lovi Poe’s collaboration with Filipino cosmetic brand Ready Set Glow (RSG) aims to elevate self-love by celebrating her natural morena beauty. The actress intends to inspire others with her new makeup collection, showcasing the beauty of embracing one’s own unique features.

Aside from being hard at work promoting her current movie “Guilty Pleasure” co-produced by her very own company C’est Lovi Productions with Regal Films, prepping her Hollywood debut with upcoming film “The Chelsea Cowboy” and engaging in various endorsement deals, Lovi is now introducing a makeup collection called “Love, You by Lovi” with Ready Set Glow, marking her new era as a beauty entrepreneur.

Like a love letter penned to oneself, “Love, You by Lovi” is more than just a makeup line. It is a celebration of your unapologetic beauty and a declaration of your self-worth. The “Love, You by Lovi” collection includes five unique makeup products in neutral and bare skin shades, designed to highlight your natural beauty.

Five Unique “Lovi” Makeup Products

“Love, You by Lovi” was personally conceptualized by Lovi Poe with the Ready Set Glow team in a collaborative approach.

The collection has introduced five makeup products that beauty junkies will surely love.

 

Skin Poetry Scented Body Shimmer is meant to add some sparkle on your skin for that extra feel-good glow, meant to make you shine no matter the texture or color your skin is. It comes in 4 shades: Celestial Glow (ivory white); Dream Dust (lilac), Girl’s Girl (pink); and Sunny Side (beige). The product name “Skin Poetry” features a play on words, as it gives an ode to Lovi’s surname.

Me, Myself & I Lippie. This multi-use product is more than just a lip product. It’s a balm, high gloss, plumper and lip treatment– all in one chic tube.

‘In the Flesh,’ is an idiom for “you’re really here” which means the real you is present in the moment, is the nude pink shade.

Smitten is the pink shade lip color in the collection, while Plum Pout is the purple red color. Resolute Red is the red shade, and Majestique is the dark red color.

Heart in Bloom Cream & Powder Blush Duo, a celebration of self-love in every shade. This blush product comes in four shades: Blossom (pink); Fine Wine (purplish); Flourish (coral); and Rosebud (red).

The Love and Light Contour and Highlighter Stick effortlessly sculpts and illuminates your features, allowing you to express your unique radiance with ease. This contour and highlighter stick comes in 4 shades: Eclipse; Harmony; Sonnet; and Luna.

The Statement Setter Brow Trio, your key to embracing self-love and confidence through beautifully sculpted brows. This brow setter comes in two shades: Self-Motivation (dark brown); and Confidence Creed (brown grey).

Partnership With Ready Set Glow

Introduced in September 2022 as the endorser for Ready Set Glow, it is apparent that Lovi’s relationship with the brand has grown into a business partnership, describing her collaboration with the brand as empowering.

Lovi Poe with RSG Family.

For Lovi, coming to her era of being a beauty entrepreneur is a different high, saying, ”It’s a surreal and fulfilling experience. Seeing my ideas come to life and sharing them with others is incredibly rewarding!”

Lovi also shared why she chose the brand to be her partner in the business of beauty.

“Ready Set Glow has a fearless approach to beauty that resonates with me. Their boldness, creativity, and commitment to quality made them the perfect partner for this collection. From the beginning, we connected over a shared passion for beauty, and that synergy grew into a meaningful partnership.”

Marian Lao Siggaoat, co-founder & brand director of Ready Set Glow, explained why Lovi has always been an ideal partner to the brand.

“We believe that her values align with RSG’s brand values. She is a modern woman who is confident in her own skin and is not afraid to express her individuality. We offered the partnership to her and we are grateful she agreed. She believes in the RSG brand and she always uses them.”

The actress couldn’t stress more why it is important for her to choose self-love as the central theme of her debut makeup collection. “Self-love is about embracing who you are without seeking validation. It’s been a journey for me, learning to accept my flaws and celebrate my strengths. Embrace who you are, flaws and all,” Lovi concluded.

“Love, You by Lovi” is available in all Ready Set Glow e-commerce platforms.

#LoviPoe #RSG #LoveYoubyLovi #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

The Allure of Angelique Lazo

Her main goal in life is “to continue to be of service to my fellowmen. For a career to be worthwhile, it should carry a social responsibility. If by what I do as a job, I could put a smile on someone’s face, I would.”

 

Angelique Lazo is a woman who has known romance, enjoyed its thrills and basked in its unspoken joys and experiences, and decided that love is more than all these. Her concept of love has matured. “Love is being able to maintain a relationship, staying in it through good and bad times,” she related.

Her main goal in life is “to continue to be of service to my fellowmen. For a career to be worthwhile, it should carry a social responsibility. If by what I do as a job, I could put a smile on someone’s face, I would.”

According to her being a media practitioner is “one of the best careers that one can have. At least, if you are not a total expert in it, you can interview the experts and you meet a lot of people. You learn a lot, too.”

She is in person as she is onscreen. She’s a person full of love, and full of wisdom. Her outlook is very positive. And she’s a very musical person. “I think I will die singing. I’ve inherited my singing voice from my mom (Susie). My mom is an original opera singer. I come from a family of entertainment people.”

Angelique has a wonderful family, to start with. His dad, Liberato Lazo, is a military man, gentle and astute. According to her, he’s a “walking encyclopedia.” Her mom Susie is an artist. Angelique is the only girl in a brood of four. Needless to say, Lazo’s children are all musically-inclined.

I asked her, are you happy? “You make your own happiness. Oo naman, hindi ba halata?”

Angelique is now enjoying wedded bliss. She’s regularly seen as the news anchor of Sentro Balita, the afternoon newscast of the People’s Television Network.

Here are the excerpts of the Q & A:

 

  • You once said that for a career to be worthwhile it should carry a social responsibility, how will you extend this to your fellow journalists?

I’m not going to say bad things about other people. I’ll start it with myself. I don’t agree with envelop-mental journalism—especially if you’re distorting the truth. You have to lead by example.

  • Will you sacrifice your profession for money?

You have to weigh things in the light of the future and the legacy you want to leave. Kung sa iyo okay lang na ganoon ang image mo pero trash naman ang ginagawa mo, kagustuhan mo ‘yan. Money you spend, and lose eventually.

  • Tell us about your childhood.

I grew up in Japan. I stayed there for eight years. And because of that, they thought that I was “Japayuki.” Kasi ang ibig sabihin talaga ng Japayuki ay galing sa Japan. In Japan, I learned a lot about their culture. I spoke their language. Life in Japan is different. Japanese people will teach you to clean your surroundings. They have a deep sense of respect for themselves and others. Living there, I became a more diligent Filipino. I studied there from grade school to high school. But in all honesty, our educational system is still the best.

  • What do you think is the solid foundation for a relationship to last?

Communication. You should never shut out the other. Once you stop talking that’s the end of it. There is no problem big enough if you talk it over. Another one is putting yourself in the other’s shoes. You won’t judge him right away. You would understand him more. And most of all, there should be between you a keen sense of integrity.

  • If you were to choose between love and career, what will you choose?

My mom chose love over career, and she’s happy. Love begets family. I think I would still choose family. I’m very family-oriented.

  • What is your greatest accomplishment so far?

Simple lang. These are the speaking engagements that I was invited to. For the fact that they invited me and interviewed me and in the process, they will tell you, “We want to be like you someday,” nakakaiyak, nakakataba ng puso. Kasi alam mo ‘yon hindi binabayaran, hindi gimmick.

  • What do you feel most grateful for?

My parents because they lead me towards the right path, because of the way they brought me up, have influenced me in the decision I make, my frame of mind, my sense of service, my zest for life. I was also thankful that I was able to study in good schools.

  • Whom do you admire most?

My dad and my mom. My mom had a flourishing career as an opera singer. She had a scholarship in Milan but chose to have a family. It’s hard to do that now; it’s self-sacrificing. We were brought up to appreciate things in life unlike some kids today who don’t value money. It seems life is so easy for them. Although my parents have means, they raised me to work hard, and not to be extravagant.

  • Aside from your family, what do you value in life?

Friendship. Sometimes your friends are your mirror. You will not see things for yourself, but they will tell you because they know you so well. I have a group of wonderful friends in the Ateneo Glee Club. We went on a trip all over the world. We’re together through thick and thin. There are also members of The CompanY.

(Based on the published feature article in the old Mirror Weekly magazine by the same author)

#AngeliqueLazoMayuga #newsanchor #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Photo courtesy: Angelique Lazo FB

Ashley Ortega: Young, pretty and talented

GMA artist Ashley Ortega, who at 25, is as Gen Z as you can get.

Last May 30, she has proven that she’s not just another pretty face. She bagged an international award – her first – at the 2024 Harlem International Film Festival, where she won Best Actress for the Cinemalaya entry As If It’s True opposite  Khalil Ramos, (the film is on Netflix’s Top 10 Movies in the Philippines Today list).

She’s athletic.  At three, when most girls were playing with dolls, Ashley was gliding in the skating rink where her parents (mom is Filipino-German and dad is Spanish-Filipino) brought her. “You’re free to do anything on ice,” she explains.  “It’s so smooth!  When you glide, no one teaches you what to do!”

“You’re free to do anything on ice,” Ashley explains.

No wonder joining the Olympics was her childhood dream.  And she represented the Philippines in tournaments held in Thailand, Malaysia, China, and Japan.

But God had another plan.  She appeared in TV commercials at 12 and was named Ms. Olive-C 2014 Campus Model.

Showbiz beckoned. A string of film and TV assignments followed.  She co-hosted Willie Revillame’s variety show Wowowin.  Lately, she made a mark as anti-hero in GMA 7’s  Widows’ Web.   She will soon be seen in the historical drama Pulang Araw starring Barbie Forteza and Alden Richards.

But one can’t have it all.  Behind that sunny disposition is the story of a girl who never knew her father, and grew up without a dad. “My parents separated when I was five,” she recalls. “It was hard at first.  We had no communication with my dad.”

But age was on hers – and her older brother and younger sister’s side.  They were too young to bear the emotional scars of a broken home.  They bounced back.  That’s because they had their mom and each other.

Instead of rebelling, Ashley lost herself doing what she loves.  Figure skating being a performance sport as well as a training ground for athletes, Ashley never developed stage fright. She joined school performances. She was never shy. Talking came naturally.

Today, she doesn’t skip a beat when fellow celebrities and media interview her.  At a recent event, Ashley, looking smart in  black and white and a bejeweled purse, admitted to media that her love life is on hold.  She’d rather focus on herself and enjoy life on her own.

Love came knocking thrice.  The first time – and she hopes her last –  was with a showbiz guy. Like most actresses who prefer a more private relationship, Ashley wants someone whose work has nothing to do with her high-profile job.

She tells actor-host Paolo Contis that her ideal guy must be taller (she stands 5’6”). Since she loves going to the gym, he must also be athletic. He must be as attractive inside. For Ashley, this means being God-fearing, prayerful, family-oriented and respectful.  But the guy musn’t be a pushover.  Otherwise, he’ll bore Ashley to death.

“He must be an alpha male who can handle my stubborn side,” she explains. That’s a tall order.  But for someone like Ashley Ortega, the extra effort is worth it.

Photos courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/AshleyOrtegaUnlimited

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