Celebrity couple Jessy Mendiola and Luis Manzano described 2025 as a year of personal growth and self-discovery. Also, closing the year, the couple emphasized gratitude for lessons learned and second chances.
Earlier this year, Luis ran for vice governor in his hometown of Batangas but lost to the outgoing governor. And at a thanksgiving gathering with showbiz press, the actor and television host shared he has no plans to pursue another government post.
“Honestly, I don’t think about it. My main focus is returning to hosting and taking care of my family. I can help in different ways in Batangas, but if we talk about running again, I don’t think about it anymore,” the 44-year-old Luis explained.
He described the experience as a redirection rather than a failure.
“After everything we went through, chances are it will still go on. For me, I found my niche again. After the campaign, I found a connection. For a while, I felt lost even though there were other projects. Some brands didn’t reach out, which is perfectly understandable,” he added.
Luis noted that things “fell into place” after the elections, realizing he did not want to waste a second chance in the entertainment industry.
“Not everyone is given a second chance to return to the industry. In fact, in two days, I’ll be shooting with a new family. I have three renewals of endorsements,” he noted.
Speaking with Manila Standard Entertainment, the couple discussed the challenges of 2025 and their hopes for 2026. Both noted that the year provided clarity on priorities and strengthened their relationship.
Jessy described 2025 as “very challenging” but also a period of growth.
“We’ve grown so much since January. I thought we were okay, but there’s always room for growth. This year really taught us a lot. Mas nahanap namin, mas nakilala namin ang isa’t isa, pati na rin ang sarili namin,” she shared and added that she hopes 2026 brings “peace and lightness,” while continuing opportunities for growth.
Luis framed 2026 as a year of resurgence after a challenging 2025.
“Kaya, this 2026, laban talaga. Dumaan ako sa phase na feeling ko nawala ako, na parang nalost ako. Pero ngayon, nakikita ko ulit kung sino ako, and I’m finding that love again within myself. And that’s a blessing,” he added.
As the year ends, the couple revealed personal wishes. Jessy, who celebrated her birthday on Dec. 3, expressed gratitude for her achievements in 2025.
“More positivity. Kahit challenging yung simula ng taon, I want to feel na matatapos siya nang maganda. And so far, so good,” she mentioned. She also wished for peace amid local and global challenges, particularly for those affected by calamities.
Jessy also talked about her showbiz comeback through Sins of the Father.
“I’m grateful to ABS-CBN also, akalain niyo nakabalik pa ako, ’di ba? After 6 long years, aakting ulit ang Jessy Mendiola. Napatunayan ko rin sa sarili ko, nakapagtapos ako ng isang show,” she noted.
Luis teased multiple projects for 2026, including the return of his daily game show Rainbow Rumble and another game show. “Yung next year, ang tinatry gawin, two to three shows,” he shared.
