Sparkle GMA Artist Center’s Elle Villanueva is solidifying her place as a leading lady with her captivating performance in the hit afternoon drama Makiling.
Elle, known for her beauty and versatility, has tackled both seductive roles in Return to Paradise and Tadhana and endearing characters in Voltes V: Legacy, Dear Uge, and Hearts On Ice. Her talent was recently recognized at the Diamond Excellence Awards where she was named Most Promising TV Actress.
“Confidence is what makes you sexy,” Elle says, reflecting on her on-screen persona. “It’s your aura, the way you talk, and how you feel about yourself. The more comfortable you are in your own skin, and the more you embrace your flaws, the more you radiate sexiness.”
Elle is also one of the ten talented women who comprise Sparkle 10, a group launched by GMA to empower young female artists.
“I’m thrilled that people are finally recognizing my talent, not just my looks, but the craft I put into my work,” she shared in a recent interview with Manila Standard Entertainment. “I’m grateful to GMA for including me in Sparkle 10, a group they’re actively building up.”
In Makiling, Villanueva portrays Amira, a complex character she finds both challenging and rewarding. The show’s success, with its rising ratings, brings her immense satisfaction.
“I feel a strong connection to Makiling, especially to my role. I have to admit that portraying the role of Amira is challenging. So, I’m happy that the ratings are doing well,” she said.
Beyond her achievements, Elle is a strong advocate for gender equality. She believes that Sparkle 10 serves as an inspiration to women, encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
“We are being a good example to every woman out there. That’s the goal of Sparkle 10. To inspire women to achieve their goals, whatever they may be,” the 27-year-old star said.
As her career progresses, Elle prioritizes nurturing relationships with her family, her boyfriend Derrick Monasterio, fans, and colleagues. Her ultimate goal? To be acknowledged for her talent and win an award for her acting prowess.
“I’m all for nurturing relationships, and I want that to happen this year. And I suppose I’d feel fulfilled once people acknowledge my talent and if I were to win an award for my craft,” Elle concluded.
Sparkle GMA Artist Center launched a collective group of diverse women who are all empowered, intelligent, and beautiful. Called Sparkle 10, it features artists Elle, Ashley Ortega, Angel Guardian, Faith Da Silva, Kate Valdez, Lexi Gonzales, Lianne Valentin, Liezel Lopez, Rabiya Mateo, and Shuvee Etrata.
Each of them comes from different backgrounds and with unique experiences that shaped them to become the women they are today, The Sparkle 10 embodies the traits of a modern Filipina woman, one who claims her own identity and womanhood and is her true unapologetic self.