Barbie Forteza has taken on a series of changes this year, debuting a new haircut, a new hobby, and a lead role in GMA Public Affairs’ revenge drama Beauty Empire.
The Kapuso actress, known as GMA’s Primetime Princess, plays a central character in the series produced by GMA Public Affairs and based on an original concept by CreaZion Studios. The Viu Original aims to challenge conventional beauty standards through a Filipino lens.
To mark the shift, Forteza revealed a short hairstyle on Instagram with the caption “She’s ready,” signaling not only a transformation for her character but also a personal shift in mindset.
Off-screen, she has taken interest in cafe hopping and running. She first posted about jogging in February with fellow Sparkle artists Alden Richards and Kristoffer Martin, calling it her “runner era.” Running has since become a regular part of her routine.
In April, the 27-year-old actress joined her first organized run, completing a 10K to raise funds for children with cancer under Save the Children Philippines. She has also participated in advocacy events supporting violence prevention against women.
While continuing to pursue acting, Forteza said she is now more focused on balance and purpose, embracing a slower pace while remaining active in her career.