Actress and former beauty queen Ruffa Gutierrez is back on GMA Network after more than two decades, joining the revenge drama Beauty Empire airing on the Kapuso primetime block.
“I’m so happy to be back here in GMA after 22 years,” Ruffa said.
She recalled starting out as a teenager on the now-defunct variety show That’s Entertainment.
“I was only 14 years old then, so I feel like I’ve come full circle.”
In Beauty Empire, Ruffa plays Velma Imperial, a seasoned beauty mogul who mentors Kyline Alcantara’s character—a brash, social media-famous CEO. Their empire is threatened by Barbie Forteza’s role as a once-poor girl who rises to success and challenges them both.
“It’s such an honor to be part of this show,” Ruffa added, thanking Annette Gozon-Valdes, GMA’s News and Public Affairs, Viu, and CreaZion. “It’s a joy to work with everyone on set.”
As a former beauty queen, Ruffa said the show’s theme resonates with her.
“Because of social media, more people are taking better care of themselves—not just physically, but emotionally, too,” she said. “Beauty is power. It’s about being kind, generous, and your authentic self.”
Beauty Empire also features Sid Lucero, Sam Concepcion, Isay Alvarez, Chai Fonacier, Gabby Padilla, Divine Aucina, Polo Laurel, Aaron Maniego, Noemi Gonzales, and Paolo O’Hara. Gloria Diaz and Korean actor Choi Bo-min have special roles.
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Kylie Padilla is learning to love again
Kylie Padilla shared that she’s still in the process of learning how to love after going through heartbreak in a past relationship.
“I’m trying something new because it was hard for me to survive that experience,” she said in an interview. “I always pray for God to teach me how to love the way He does.”
Kylie said she doesn’t want past trauma to define how she gives love, especially for the sake of her children.
“I want my kids to see that no matter what happens, you should always come from a place of love. For a time, I was bitter, but now I feel healing can only come from a Higher Being.”
So, how is her heart these days?
“Well, I won’t deny that someone is making me happy at this point!” she said.
