In a recent vlog with Dr. Vicki Belo, Alice gets real about her difficult surrogacy journey. "The process was almost 10 years in the making," she shares. "[Aura] was two months premature, so I was not prepared at all. But as she grew, she turned out to be such a lovely child. She’s so healthy now, there are no signs of her being premature at all."Instagram/alicedixson

While she admits that she'd prefer if she was the one who gave birth to her daughter, the 53-year-old momma is definitely enjoying the "best role of her life."

“Kung ako ang papipiliin, I'd rather have carried my daughter myself,” she reveals. “[But] this is the best role of my life. Sa lahat ng role na na-portray ko, this is the one that I cherish most."

"At my age, when you’re more mature and ready for a child, mahaba ang pasensya mo. You’re loving every minute of the experience, but there’s the part of running around, which is kind of hard,” she continued. “She’s climbing on things and doing all things na naughty at this point. It’s a transition, but in general, I really love the experience."

*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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We often see celebrities on expensive vacations with their impeccable collection of designer bags, but being an artista isn't an automatic ticket to luxury. Case in point: Jennica Garcia, who started her acting career in 2007, admits that she planned to become an overseas Filipino worker amid her struggle to find projects in the Philippines.

“Gusto ko man sabihin na… Masarap man lumabas sa bibig na ‘I was handpicked for this role,’ hindi po talaga yun yung nangyari,” she shares in her recent interview talking about how she landed her role in the 2023 teleserye Dirty Linen.

"Seven years po akong nag-artista, seven years din po akong tumigil. Pagbalik ko po nakagawa ako ng isang proyekto, tapos wala na pong sumunod. It was almost six months of no work."

Instagram/dreamscapeph

The actress reveals that she was the one who reached out to ABS-CBN to ask if she can land a role in a project. "I sent a [message] to sir Deo asking for work. Naisip ko, 'Sige ito na, kakapalan ko na yung mukha ko.' Kasi dalawa po yung anak ko."

She continued, "Naisip ko na rin po noon na, 'Sige okay lang, kapag hindi ako nabigyan, mag-o-OFW na lang ako."

Instagram/jennicagarciaph

Jennica admits feeling pressured to find work in the industry because acting is all she's ever known, so she made sure to give her best in breathing life into her character. "Alam ko na they didn't think of me when our writers when making Lala into the character that she is today, kaya pinag-igihan ko po talaga."

It's undeniable that you are one talented actress, Jennica. We're cheering you on!

*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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OG channel senior producer Mart Francisco found just the place that will let you soak in nature as you enjoy modern comforts!

The Black Cabin is a stunning 3-storey modern house located in Nasugbu, Batangas. The property boasts a 160 sqm lot size and 100 sqm floor size, making it a great getaway for families or groups of friends. The cabin features an industrial chic design, with a combination of wood and steel, natural materials and leather accents.

IMAGE OG Channel 

One of the key features of The Black Cabin is the L-shaped infinity pool that wraps around the property. This allows guests to take a dip in the pool while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The pool is easily accessible from the dining room, making it convenient to grab a snack or a drink after a swim. 

IMAGE OG Channel 

As you enter the cabin, you are greeted by a minimalist kitchen and wooden dining set. The open floor plan allows for easy flow of guests from the kitchen to the dining room, and then to the living area. The living area is spacious, with high ceilings and a bar. Large windows open to the pool, making it perfect for gatherings and socializing. 

IMAGE OG Channel 

The Black Cabin has a total of 3 bedrooms, with the master bedroom located on the third floor. The master bedroom has its own bathroom with a bathtub, and a private balcony with a view of Mt. Batulao. The room is spacious and comfortable, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

The Black Cabin can accommodate 8 to 10 people and can definitely host big groups. If you're interested in staying at The Black Cabin, you can find them on Airbnb or on Facebook.

To get a better feel and see The Black Cabin in its entirety, watch the full video here : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xS-xceHoTCs 

OG (Only Good) Channel is Summit Media's first-ever video brand with its own channel on Youtube. OG features content that gives ONLY GOOD vibes with entertaining and informational video series about Amazing Staycation Destinations, Unique Homes, OPM Music, Buhay Abroad, Popular Memes and Trends, and Real Stories about Real People. If you need a dose of good vibes today, visit and subscribe to OG Channel. 

Congratulations are in order for Ria Atayde, who was announced as the newest calendar girl of the liquor brand White Castle. The actress was a total stunner in a red one-piece bodysuit, confidently flaunting her curvy body!

On White Castle’s official Facebook account, Ria was quoted with an empowering statement to celebrate her new milestone: “Beauty goes in all forms and sizes. You can be wholesome and sexy. You don’t have to show more skin to be sexy. You just have to show your confidence.” Love!

[facebook:https://www.facebook.com/WhiteCastleWhisky/posts/pfbid0JgtvPQtkR85EtykfkgxMTNQXSVfK1mTKzxRE25pR6v8jYeraRBy7pDeG5WtSXgsVl]

At the official unveiling, Ria also added that she was ecstatic to be part of the campaign. “Big girls don’t usually get the chance to do this. It’s really about embracing your body,” she said.

On her Instagram account, her celebrity friends—including Jane Oineza and Iza Calzado—showered her with support.

What a feat, Ria!

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the FN editors.

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Carlo Aquino and Trina Candaza have been the talk of the town after the actor admitted that he's currently dating his A Soldier's Heart co-star Charlie Dizon. In a recent interview, he also claimed that he hasn't seen his daughter with Trina in over two months.

"Ang nakakaapekto lang talaga sa akin is hindi ko nakikita yung daughter ko since November,” he shares. “Basta nag-reach out po ako. Tinanong ko po kung kailan ko pwedeng makasama, New Year ba, kasi usually ganun po eh. Wala pong sagot.

"Sana, ‘di ba, mahiram ko naman. Tutal nagpo-provide ako para sa kanilang dalawa. […] Ayokong mag-assume, ayokong magsalita kasi hindi ko talaga alam ‘yung nangyayari."

Instagram/trinacandaza

According to Trina, however, Carlo's claims are not true. "That's not true. I also pay half of our expenses, so para sa akin, dalawa kaming nagpo-provide. Pwede naman niyang sabihin na nag-su-sustento siya kay Mithi, kasi totoo yun. Pero para sabihin niya na binubuhay din niya ako, nakaka-offend sa part ko yun, kasi nagtatrabaho din ako," she reveals in her interview with Ogie Diaz.

Trina also clarified that she's open to addressing their issues privately, especially when it comes to co-parenting their daughter. Contrary to Carlo's statement that his ex-partner hasn't been letting him see their daughter, Trina says that isn't the case.

"Hindi ko ipinagdadamot [ang anak ko], it's just that... hindi siya pumupunta," she reveals. "He knows kung nasaan kami, and he knows na very welcome siya doon sa bahay kung saan kami nag-Christmas. For me, it's his choice kung gusto niya ba talagang makasama yung anak niya."

*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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Carlo Aquino and his ex-partner Trina Candaza have been making headlines following the latter’s cryptic posts about the actor allegedly leaving her and their daughter Mithi. Days after, Carlo then admitted the real score between him and his A Soldier’s Heart co-star Charlie Dizon, which got social media into a frenzy, making Carlo the subject of bashing.

However, the actor reveals that there’s more to the story. In a recent interview, Carlo admits that unsolicited opinions from strangers on the internet don’t faze him, what bothers him is that he allegedly hasn’t seen his daughter in over two months.

“Ang nakakaapekto lang talaga sa akin is hindi ko nakikita yung daughter ko since November,” he shares. “Basta nag-reach out po ako. Tinanong ko po kung kailan ko pwedeng makasama, New Year ba, kasi usually ganun po eh. Wala pong sagot.”

“Sana, ‘di ba, mahiram ko naman. Tutal nagpo-provide ako para sa kanilang dalawa. […] Ayokong mag-assume, ayokong magsalita kasi hindi ko talaga alam ‘yung nangyayari,” he continued, revealing that his ex-partner hasn’t been replying to his messages about wanting to see their daughter.

“Ayokong ma-headline na pabaya o hindi pinapahiram. Ayoko yung mga ganun. Ayoko ng away, actually. At this point sana lang mahiram ko si Mithi. Yun lang naman po.”Instagram/niceprintphoto

Trina and Carlo were in a relationship for three years before they confirmed their split in April 2022. Trina gave birth to their daughter Mithi in September 2020.

*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

IMAGE Instagram/lj_reyes 

Paolo Contis took to Instagram lately to express his longing for his four-year-old daughter Summer, his child with his ex-partner LJ Reyes. ICYDK, Summer migrated to New York along with her mom and brother Aki, shortly after her parents' highly-publicized split.

Despite laying low for the past year except for the occasional romantic banters with now-rumored girlfriend Yen Santos, the actor spoke about his daughter for the first time in months, penning a heartfelt birthday greeting. “Happy Birthday, my Ganda! I miss you everyday!” he wrote.

[instagram:https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm_nS1ZB37N/]

Naturally, netizens couldn’t help but wonder when the father-daughter tandem would be reunited. But judging by LJ’s IG updates, it seems like the actress plans to stay in New York for now and isn't planning on coming back to the Philippines anytime soon, seeing how she even enrolled the kids in an NYC school.

In a recent post, she shared an adorable snippet of their fun day out in a waterpark—her treat to the kids before they return to school! “Glad to have been blessed to enjoy a water park before they head back to school.

“I have been so busy and [spending] time like this with the kids is a treasure to me! Kahit na may blocking kami! Summer and mommy time muna, then Aki and mommy! Syempre meron din altogether. But they have a big gap that they have different interests in activities, and I want to enjoy with them the way they like it!”

[instagram:https://www.instagram.com/p/CiScGwXpnnL/]

In a separate interview, LJ spoke more about her dedication to being a good mom to Aki and Summer. “I always pray about our life, the decisions that I have to make for clarity, for purpose, for His grace, and for His mercy, and then, of course, I would consider what would be beneficial to them.

“All your decisions cannot be based on your needs and wants alone. Your kids will always be your priority. So parang laging package deal, but they always come on top. I want them to feel like no matter what is happening around the world, around us, that I will be the constant foundation that they have, constant support, constant love that they have,” she said.

Aww, there's truly nothing quite like a mother's love, and LJ is a testament to this.

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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Like some relationships, there are skincare habits that are better left in the past, especially if one of your personal goals this year is to achieve healthier skin. Luckily, Dr. Vicki Belo is here to help! In one of her latest TikTok videos, the trusted celebrity dermatologist spilled a few skincare steps that can actually do more harm than good.

The Skincare Habits You Should Ditch In 2023

1. Using nose strips! 

Girl, it's 2023. Peeling off a pore strip to get rid of blackheads isn't worth the pain. It may be satisfying to see all the gunk it can remove. However, its effects are only temporary—it won't keep you from getting blackheads. "When you peel [it] off, yes, some blackheads will go along with it but so will your skin," Dr. Vicki explained. "It will create wounding" and it may even leave you with an uneven complexion. (READ MORE: All The *Best* Ways To Remove Blackheads On The Nose)

2. Cleaning your face with a cleansing brush. 

Admittedly, Dr. Vicki loved using cleansing brushes. "It exfoliates dead skin and makes your skin feel good," she shared. The problem with this type of cleansing device is that no matter how much you clean it, the brush harbors a lot of bacteria. "As you clean your face, the bacteria is being [pushed] deeper into your pores and you end up getting irritated. It destroys your skin barrier," the dermatologist said. What's worse, it may cause breakouts, too. P.S. You might want to try using silicone cleansing devices instead, which are easier to clean! 

3. Exfoliating your face with abrasive scrubs. 

Dr. Vicki pointed out that apricot scrubs, in particular, aren't good for the face. "If you will look at it under the microscope, apricot scrubs are sharp. Now, when you rub them into your skin, they create micro-tears and wounds on your face," she noted. 

When it comes to removing dead skin, the beauty expert previously recommended using skincare products that contain chemical exfoliants such as alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acid (BHA).  

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

At this point, we’ve seen Kylie Verzosa rock, well, just about every hubadera outfit you can think of—from classic LBDs to neutral swimsuits! Just recently, the former Miss International titleholder demonstrated that she’s never been one to steer away from risks as she stepped out in a velvet bustier bodysuit sans any bottoms, a clear indication that she has caught the bug for the so-called "no-pants" trend. 

ICYDK, it’s the latest It-girl trend to hit runways and celebs’ wardrobes alike, beloved by style mavens such as Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid for its illusion that the wearer has nothing on underneath. “Dinner date for one,” Kylie wrote, showcasing her stylish ‘fit. She added a touch of classic glam by layering her suit with a transparent coat, further accessorizing it with stunning diamond necklace and earrings.

In the beauty department, she opted for neutral, barely-there makeup while keeping her tresses in a messy bun for that effortlessly chic look. So gorgeous!

Would you take on Kylie's bold, no-pants style?

This story originally appeared on Preview.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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IMAGE Instagram/piawurtzbach 

Pia Wurtzbach is having the time of her life. Days ago, the former beauty queen amused netizens by sharing snapshots of her New Year holiday with her fiancé Jeremy Jauncey, incorporating a spicy caption to commemorate their vacay. “Some beer… Some haggis… Some haggisan sa bed… wait what? Charot lang! Had the most epic start of the year at @thefifearms,” she wrote, thanking the esteemed UK hotel for a memorable stay.

[instagram:https://www.instagram.com/p/CnCJ8vxPOG7/]

In the comments section, netizens couldn’t help but react to Pia’s naughty choice of wordplay. “Hoy Pia, bakit may hagisan? Haha lol. Sana all hinahagis,” one commenter wrote, to which the former Miss Universe titleholder replied, “Pillow fight hagisan ng unan diba? Kayo naman.”

It even reached Twitter, where Pia emphasized that her post was just for laughs. 

Pia and Jeremy have been together for about three years now and announced their engagement in May last year. It was one of the most romantic proposals of the year, with Jeremy popping the question in the middle of the ocean. Since then, they’ve been jet-setting the world together, never failing to inspire netizens with their picturesque travels.

We’re happy for you, lovebirds!

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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Doing something as drastic as an impromptu haircut days before the wedding is probably not what most brides do. Many would agree that it's a big risk to change up your look so last minute. Well, this bride might just convince you otherwise.  

Erico Tiongson, a hairstylist under the Makeup by Odessa team, just cut this bride’s long locks right before her reception and netizens are going wild. They posted a video of him cutting off half of the bride's hair, and what’s surprising is that he was using regular office scissors rather than professional barber shears. This posed a problem to netizens because cutting your tresses with regular scissors often results in damaged ends and an uneven haircut.

IMAGE Facebook/MakeupByOdessa 

But before you dissent Erico's haircutting, just know the bride was actually the one who decided to chop off her locks. According to him, the haircut was totally unplanned! The bride just spontaneously thought of getting a haircut so he didn't have the right tools and had to resort to using regular scissors.

"Actually, wala po talagang plan sa reception look ni bride. Then bigla lang din po na pag isipan na mag pa cut ng hair. And then suddenly walang proper gunting na para sa hair, kaya sa gunting na pang papel ang nagamit namin na hiniram sa coordinator. Then ayun po, nairaos naman ng maganda ang hair niya," he said.

Both the bride and Erico agreed that she will just have her hair fixed at a salon after the wedding reception to fix any damage the regular scissors may have caused. To do something so drastic on one of your most memorable days is truly both impulsive and daring.

IMAGE Facebook/Makeup by Odessa 

Thanks to the skills and talents of Erico and the Makeup by Odessa team, the bride looked as if she just came fresh from the salon. How impressive! Some of the netizens even commented that the short hair suited her more.

Our eyes are the most expressive part of our face. We can draw more attention to it with makeup or maybe a cool pair of sunnies, but some people opt for more drastic ways. One of these is the blepharoplasty procedure, or what's popularly known as eyelid surgery or double eyelid surgery. Usually, this is used to give monolid eyes a visible crease and widen the eyes. Meanwhile, for those who already have a fold, this surgery can also adjust your eyelids to get rid of a droopy look.

This surgery is common in East Asian countries such as Korea and China, but it’s also a procedure that many Filipinos might undergo. To give you an idea, lets take a look at how blepharoplasty looks like on our local celebrities and the stories behind their procedures.

Filipino Celebrities Who Have Gotten Eyelid Surgery

1. Kryz Uy

In a personal vlog that Kryz Uy released in 2019, the vlogger opened up about her biggest insecurity which were her eyes. When she was still in school, she would often get teased by the popular girls for her eyes looking “too Chinese.” And this insecurity continued even when she was already in the blogging world. According to Kryz, she would get comments from makeup artists such as, ‘Oh, your eyes are so small,’ ‘Oh, you need to put eyelid tape,’ ‘You need to put eyelid glue,’ ‘It’s so hard to do your eyes.’ With all these words thrown at her, eyelid surgery definitely came to her mind. 

Kryz had to undergo two surgeries because the first one didn't turn out how she hoped. The second procedure gave her a more natural effect. But, even if she proceeded with blepharoplasty, Kryz stressed that she still loved how she looked before. “In my heart, I know that I love myself for who I am. And this is something that is just making me feel bad about myself. And if it’s something that I can change and have the power to change, then I will do it. And I will change it,” the blogger emphasized.  

2. Ellen Adarna

When it comes to plastic surgery, Ellen Adarna never shies away to openly talk about what she had done. Her most popular cosmetic surgery must her breast augmentation in 2015, which contributed to her sexy and confident image. Aside from this, however, Ellen also did eyelid surgery to brighten up her chinita eyes. “It really makes a difference. Kasi before I had it done, para akong antok palagi,” says the actress.

3. Vice Ganda

Vice is also one of the few celebrities who is keen on sharing the procedures they’ve done. He admitted that he has underwent many changes with his face such as cheeks, chin, and eyes. In a Gandang Gabi Vice episode with Janine Berdin, he shared why his eyes needed a makeover. 

According to the comedian, "Kasi ang mata ko ay droopy, malungkot. Sabi nila hindi puwedeng nagpapatawa ka tapos malungkot ang mata. May malungkot na mata at malungkot na kilay kapag nakababa. So kailangan buka ang mata mo at ang kilay mo ay hindi pababa. So nilagyan ako ng talukap. Kasi mataba ang talukap ko, 'yon ang ginawa.”

4. Claudine Barretto

Claudine naturally has double eyelids, but the shape of her eyes droop slightly downward. That's why to give her eyes a wide-awake look, blepharoplasty was the answer. She had the eyelid surgery in 2015, and it gave the actress a gorgeous makeup-free lift.

5. Angeline Quinto

Once Angeline won Star Power, her mind and heart were open to undergoing plastic surgery. She was not  bothered about what other people would think even if she was a newbie in the industry. She even hails herself as a “proud retokada,” admitting that she has undergone many cosmetic procedures and enhancements such as a nose trim, breast reduction, liposuction, and eyelid surgery. The singer had her peepers transformed from hooded eyes into a more deep set shape.

This story originally appeared on Preview.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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IMAGE Instagram/heavenperalejo 

Heaven Peralejo is known for being an outspoken Gen Z celebrity who doesn’t shy away from addressing controversies and speaking up about her personal views. Case in point: The 23-year-old star recently debunked speculations that she has undergone plastic surgery before. 

In an exclusive interview with PEP.ph last week, Heaven shared that she’s already happy with the way she looks. “Parang di ko naman kailangan, gifted naman yata ako,” she said. Heaven also added that opting for cosmetic procedures isn’t in line with her personal values: "With my morals and values or my principles, it's against my principles.” 

Although Heaven already seems set on her views, she quickly clarified that she has nothing against fellow celebrities who believe otherwise. "For other people who want or need to do that, I totally support,” she explained. “But for my own body, I feel like it's my own home, so I take care of my body.” 

We’re totally loving Heaven’s progressive stance! With her positive mindset and upcoming role in The Rain in España, we have no doubt that the young actress will go far in the industry.

ICYDK, this isn't the first time that Heaven has opened up about her physical appearance. In 2022, the Pinoy Big Brother alumni posted bare-faced selfies on Instagram and wrote a lengthy caption detailing her long-standing battle with acne. 

This story originally appeared on Candymag.com.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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New couple alert? You guys, social media is currently ablaze with speculations that Charlie Dizon is now dating Carlo Aquino, following a sighting of the two of them together enjoying a dinner with friends, including Belle Mariano. In the photos uploaded on Charlie’s IG, the two were visibly cozy with each other—igniting rumors of a possible romance going on between them!

[instagram:https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmvvte1PYpv/]

In the comments section, their celeb friends, including Dimples Romana and Jolina Magdangal, expressed their joy over the get-together, although it’s not clear whether they’re referring to the soft launch of the rumored couple.Instagram/charliedizon_

While the two looked visibly close, it’s best to take their gesture with a grain of salt, especially since they’re starring together in an upcoming movie entitled Love on a Budget. Although judging by the pic above, it looks like they have strong chemistry off-screen, too!

Charlie hasn’t been in a public relationship for quite some time now, while Carlo confirmed his breakup with his ex-partner Trina Candaza this year.

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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Sshh, hear that sound? It’s the breakup rumor mill churning once again, because another celebrity allegedly broke up with her husband. The subject of speculation is socialite and model Mikaela Lagdameo-Martinez, who recently had a cryptic post on Instagram about going solo, sparking split rumors with businessman husband Chucho Martinez.

In one post, she wrote, “A woman who is secure and gains her strength from the Lord is not afraid to finish the year alone. Whether you are in a relationship or not, it doesn’t mean being lonely. There are also so many that are stuck in relationships and yet feel empty, unhappy and broken.

“It’s all a matter of what you decide. Take this time of quiet to reflect, and do something meaningful & different for you. Alone but secured. Alone but strong. Alone but so loved by the Lord and those that surround you.”

[instagram:https://www.instagram.com/p/CmiT9zCyunN/]

In the comments section, her celebrity friends including Maggie Wilson and Bianca Gonzalez expressed their support. Her fellow influencer Janeena Chan even called her an “inspiration” for her empowering message.

Fanning the flames of the controversy, Mikaela also reportedly unfollowed her husband, and shared holiday photos sans him.

[instagram:https://www.instagram.com/p/CmqshMDhHDM/]

The lovebirds have been together since Mikaela was 17, and had three kids together including budding vlogger Noelle Martinez. Neither of the two has issued a statement about the issue as of writing.

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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In April this year, Jake Cuenca made headlines when he posted a "crying" selfie following his breakup with Kylie Verzosa. The photo quickly went viral on social media, which garnered mixed reactions from netizens.

Instagram/juancarloscuenca

When asked about the reason behind his tearful photo during his interview with Boy Abunda, the actor admits that it was "an accumulation of a lot of things" that happened to him during the pandemic.

"In a weird way, it was a reset for me. Then, I told myself that I wanted this year to be a re-introduction of what I can do as an actor,” he says. "I didn’t shy away from what I was going through. I didn’t really build a wall, I allowed myself to go through the pain."

While he didn't mention the Miss International titleholder during the interview, Jake reveals that he doesn't regret anything about their relationship. He says, "When it comes to love, you can’t really regret things. When it was there, it made me very happy. Now that it’s not there, I can’t hate it or I can’t get mad at it. I can only just look back at it with joy but it also makes me sad since it’s not there anymore."

*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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IMAGE Instagram/maxenemagalona 

Maxene Magalona has often used her social media platform as a means to empower others. ICYDK, she recently went through a painful breakup with her ex-husband Rob Mananquil, but instead of handling things bitterly—she’s taking life on her own terms by taking the slow and serene path to healing.

In her recent Instagram post, she shared a podcast guesting she did, opening up about the lessons she learned while dealing with grief. She wrote, “Had another opportunity to guest on the @projectlovingmyselfpodcast with @sanaiyahgurnamal. This time, we discussed relationships, the problems that most couples go through and the necessary steps to take in handling these issues especially when the relationship is already toxic.”

She said that her faith has everything to do with the healing process. “I dealt with my own breakup by developing a closer and deeper relationship with God. I kept praying for me and my ex-husband so that He could give us both the strength and energy to go through the pain of breaking up. God was the one who really helped me through everything. Up to this day, He is and forever will be my healer.”

[instagram:https://www.instagram.com/p/CmbAWcqSDqf/]

Despite their fallout, Maxene still posts several photos of herself from their wedding. And in case anyone finds it odd, she has the best response: “To those who find it weird that I still post my wedding photos even though my marriage didn’t work out, 1. This is one of the ways I honor my pain. 2. Ang ganda ko sa photos, sayang naman. Lol.”

Always speaking her truth. You do you, Max!

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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After months of speculations surrounding Heart Evangelista and Chiz Escudero's alleged breakup, the actress took social media into a frenzy when she tagged her husband in a recent Instagram post.

[instagram:https://www.instagram.com/p/CmohfCeDWX-/]

In the video, she's seen walking the streets of Paris in a black-and-white outfit. "Living between 2 worlds, Paris and Manila [...] Walking around Paris before heading home for New Year," she captioned her post. "P.S. See you soon @escuderochiz."

Netizens flooded Heart's comments section with supportive messages for the two. "Pinagalaw na ni ninang ang baso! Team keso at puso tayo," says one Instgram user. "OMG you made us all so happy with the 'PS'! Thank God," says another.

Instagram/iamhearteInstagram/iamhearte

Heart and Chiz made headlines this year after the former published a vlog in September where she revealed that she was going through "a lot of personal stuff," which netizens speculated to be about her alleged breakup with Chiz.

*This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Female Network editors.

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A woman in her 30s—caught in a blur of baby showers, bridesmaid gowns, and career climbs—deserves only the best things the world has to offer.

Being a fully-fledged member of the 30s club comes with the realization that hustle is important, but there’s also nothing quite like maintaining a good disposition and a healthy balance of work and play. That balance also pertains to selecting the right products and services to help you live a well-rounded routine, allowing you to take better care of yourself and address the woes you might be facing at this stage of womanhood.

That said, we took it upon ourselves to test products under the Beauty and Wellness, Fashion and Lifestyle, and Work and Money categories—reviewing more than a hundred entries before narrowing it down to the annual best 30 list. From anti-aging skincare picks to home decor and financial tools, here are the brands that scored top marks in the editors' books.

BEAUTY and WELLNESS

ANESSA Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Milk

P1,891 from P1,990 on Anessa Flagship Store on Lazada; P1,519 from P1,990 on Sasa Flagship Store on Lazada; P1,280 from P1,680 on Nana Mall Flagship Store on Lazada; P1,393 from P1,990 from Watsons and Watsons Shopee Mall; P1,990 on Rustan's

As we enter our thirties, we’re bound to see signs of aging in our skin, and that’s completely normal. One important step in our skincare routine that can help reduce this, however, is by applying sunscreen! ANESSA Sunscreen Skincare Milk offers UV protection that shields our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. It also has unique packaging that lets you reapply the product easily!

BIORE Cleansing Oil

P375 on Watsons Flagship Store on Lazada, Watsons Shopee Mall, and Watsons

As fun as putting on makeup is, removing it is not exactly a walk in the park, which is why it’s important to invest in a makeup remover that can melt away everything without a hitch! Enter: Just a few drops of the BIORE Cleansing Oil will remove stubborn makeup and leave your face looking so glowy.

ROB X COLOURETTE Colourtint in Robina and Coloursnap in Rosie

P649 on Robinsons Department Store Flagship Store on Lazada and Robinsons Department Store GoCart

This Colourette x Robinsons exclusive bundle comes with everything you need to achieve that youthful glow—the Colourtint in Robina and the Coloursnap in Rosie. Both products can be used on the cheeks, eyes, and lips, so you won’t have to worry about bringing several products in your makeup kit. Trust us, these two can save the day!

Human Nature Sunflower Beauty Lotion

P269.75 from Human Nature Flagship Store on Lazada, Human Nature on Shopee Mall, Human Nature, and Zalora

No matter the weather, a good lotion will make your skin feel smooth, soft, and hydrated. Enriched with Sunflower Beauty Oil, cocoa butter, and vitamins A, D, and E, we’re in awe of the results whenever we slather on Human Nature’s Sunflower Beauty Lotion!

INNISFREE Black Tea Youth Enhancing Essence

P2,025 from P2,250 on Innisfree Flagship Store on Lazada, Innisfree on Shopee Mall, BeautyMNL; P2,250 on Innisfree

If you’re looking for a lightweight treatment essence after a long work day, Innisfree’s Black Tea Youth Enhancing Essence is a great choice. Aside from its sleek packaging, what we loved about this essence is its ability to cleanse your skin and help it better absorb your skincare products. We had a smooth and radiant complexion after weeks of use!

ISSEY MIYAKE L’Eau d'Issey Perfume

P4,038 on Zalora, P6,550 on Look, P7,300 on Rustan's

The L’Eau d'Issey perfume by Issey Miyake is a feminine scent you can wear in the daytime. With lotus, melon, and freesia as its top notes, it’s the perfect fragrance for lunch out with your colleagues or a trip to the beach!

LAURA MERCIER Tinted Moisturizer Oil-Free

P1,650 on Laura Mercier Flagship Store on Lazada

Finding the right foundation that stays intact under the Manila heat can be challenging nowadays, but don’t fret! Laura Mercier’s Oil-Free version of their classic tinted moisturizer has a lightweight formula that blurs and mattifies your makeup base for that plakado look.

LIESE Creamy Bubble Color in Marshmallow Brown

P489 on Liese Flagship Store on Lazada, Liese on Shopee Mall, and Zalora; P441 from P489 on Landmark Flagship Store on Lazada and Landmark on Shopee Mall; P524 on Watsons Flagship Store on Lazada, Watsons on Shopee Mall, Watsons, ShopSM, and Look

When you don’t want to splurge on an-in person salon appointment, dyeing your hair is always a good option! With its easy-to-use and hair-nourishing formula, we recommend Liese’s Natural Hair Color series, which boosts your hair’s vibrancy and gives you that “soft charisma look” that will surely turn heads.

MARY KAY Honey Glow Finisher SPF35

P1,499 on Mary Kay

If you want your makeup to look dewy or achieve that “Korean Glass Skin” effect, you can use Mary Kay's Honey Glow Finisher as part of your routine. Dab it on your skin after applying your favorite moisturizer, then apply your makeup as is. It has SPF35 as well, so you won’t have to worry about commuting in this Manila heat!

Musc Noir Rose by NARCISO RODRIGUEZ

P7,050 on Look

Go ahead and judge Musc Noir Rose by Narciso Rodriguez through its lovely bottle. Because if you’re into a rose pink hue and a musky floral fragrance, you’re bound to enjoy its top notes of Plum, Pink Pepper and Bergamot.

OXECURE Acne Defense Prebio Serum

P849 on Oxecure Flagship Store on Lazada, Oxecure on Shopee Mall, Oxecure, Zalora, Robinsons Department Store on Lazada; P509.40 from P849 on Watsons Flagship Store on Lazada and Watsons

It may seem like it’s impossible to reduce stubborn acne marks, especially when you’ve had them for years, but it really just takes the right product. Using Oxecure’s Acne Defense Prebio Serum is a good way to start, as it has encapsulated prebiotics that helps strengthen our skin’s defense against the formation of new acne. Do note, though: You have to give your skin time for the product to take effect!

Eyebrow Microblading, PINO by Whena Pino (P30,000)

If you spend a huge chunk of your time ensuring that your brows are on fleek, then you might want to reconsider trying out microblading, a form of semi-permanent makeup that gives you that effortless look in one go! Pino by Whena Pino’s best-selling treatment lets you achieve the most natural-looking brows that can last up to three years!

SHISEIDO Future Solution LX Primer

P3,269 from P3,845 on Shiseido on Shopee Mall, P3,511 on Zalora, P4,250 on Rustan's

Skin prep makes all the difference with our without makeup, so it only makes sense to invest in a primer that makes the beat! Formulated with Pearl Diffusion Technology, the Shiseido Future Solution LX Primer will help lock moisture into the skin, leaving you with a smooth and supple barefaced look.

SNAILWHITE Glow Jelly Mask and Scrub

P159 on SNAILWHITE Flagship Store on Lazada, SNAILWHITE on Shopee Mall, Watsons Flagship Store on Lazada, and Watsons

When your skin feels dull, it’s best to choose a good-quality exfoliator that doesn’t break the bank. A promising brand that leaves your skin smooth and supple is Snailwhite’s Glow Jelly Mask And Scrub. Its exfoliating beads and pomegranate extract can help slough away dead skin cells, which can reduce bacne and even discoloration.

SPARKLE Ionic Mouthwash

P279 on Sparkle Flagship Store on Lazada, Sparkle on Shopee Mall, ShopSM, and Zalora

If there’s one thing you should take seriously, it’s definitely your dental hygiene, which is why it’s important to pick a mouthwash that removes bacteria that can’t be eliminated through brushing alone. Sparkle’s Ionic mouthwash does exactly that, plus it feels fresh and cool too!

TRESEMME Keratin Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner

P926.32 from P1,074.57 on Unilever Beauty Flagship Store on Lazada and P1,075 on Unilever Shopee Mall

Having chemically treated hair can be challenging to your pursuit of finding the right products. One trustworthy duo in our book is Tresemme’s Keratin Shampoo and Conditioner, which strengthens the hair while helping to protect it from breakage—leaving it silky smooth and ready to style into any look.

YOU BEAUTY Advanced Youth Recharging Peptide Eye Cream

P685 from P699 on YOU Beauty Flagship Store on Lazada and YOU Beauty on Shopee Mall

Dark circles and puffy eyes? No one wants to look like they only got four hours of sleep—which is why an eye cream that fakes everything is a must. Like your favorite latte, this hydrating cream is infused with Caffeine as well as Plantide X™, and Niacinamide, which aid in helping reduce the appearance of puffiness and fine lines. Best part? It comes with a relaxing ceramic applicator that is an absolute treat for the skin.

Body Acupuncture at CENTRO HOLISTICO (starts at P1,600)

Day-to-day stresses can wreak havoc on your skin and overall well-being. For some centering, we tried out acupuncture at Centro Holistico, with doctors who use part of traditional Chinese medicine to govern the flow of energy throughout the body along pathways called “meridians.” Some benefits include easing menstruation and fertility issues, weight loss, and emotional wellness.

Hair treatments at CULTURE SALON AND STYLE LOUNGE (Starts at P1.8k)

There’s nothing quite like getting your tresses a much-needed relaxing hair treatment to feel fab! Celebrity-approved Culture Salon and Style Lounge offers a range of plant-based services to keep your locks looking soft and luscious! The bonus part? They also have an in-house bar where you can order cocktails or coffee while pampering yourself. 

Eyelash extensions at HELLO LUNCH BREAK BEAUTY (Starts at P2,199)

Eyes are the windows to the soul, and your lashes are the swanky curtains! That said, it’s no surprise that eyelash extensions are all the rave nowadays, and our current favorite is those done by Hello Lunch Break Beauty, which is founded by actress Elisse Joson. It’s the perfect option for busy girls who can’t seem to allot hours from their hectic days to go to the salon. All you need to do is schedule an appointment through their Instagram account, and they’ll go straight to you any time and day you prefer. Aside from eyelash extensions, they offer manicure and pedicure services, too. A+ convenience!

FASHION AND LIFESTYLE

Timepiece: CALVIN KLEIN

Watches, much like clothes and handbags, are a fool-proof way to elevate even the most basic pieces. The classic women’s watches from Calvin Klein will surely go with everything in your wardrobe. But more than that, they're good investment pieces, too.

Jewelry: KATHY AND KATHY BESPOKE

Whether you’re looking for a timeless piece to indulge in or an eye-catching statement for a special occasion, there’s nothing quite like a piece of handcrafted fine jewelry to save the day. The newest collection of local artisan brand Kathy and Kathy Bespoke marries art and religion and features pieces handmade by Italian carvers to offer fine jewelry keepsakes like no other.

Online clothing shop: LOVE, BONITO

If you’re on the hunt for a workwear-friendly wardrobe, trusty pieces that strike the ideal balance between sophistication and stylishness are a must. Online store Love, Bonito’s clothes, thoughtfully crafted with the Asian fit in mind, suit the bill—its roster of closet heroes is at the forefront of our office staples!

Home Decor: ROBINSONS CURATED HOME

Robinsons Curated Home on LazMall and Shopee Mall

If there’s anything the lockdowns have taught us, it’s the value of our humble abodes, which act as our sanctuary during difficult times. For homebodies, Robinsons Curated Home houses thoughtfully curated pieces for every preference and style.

Department store: ROBINSONS DEPARTMENT STORE

Robinsons Department Store website, LazMall, and Shopee Mall

The search for the best shoes can be a tiresome one, that’s why it helps to have a one-stop place for your every need! Whether it’s stilettos for a big party or comfy flats for traveling, Robinsons Department Store has a plethora of options for you.

WORK AND MONEY

SUNLIFE Insurance

Life is full of uncertainty, which means investing in a life insurance that offers protection to your family and legacy is a must. Sun Maiden Plus is a five-year renewable term insurance plan from Sun Life Philippines, designed especially for women with benefits that include maternity and female critical illness benefits.

SMAC

A rewards card proves to be most useful, packed with perks and benefits to make the most out of your shopping budget. For only P200 pesos—SMAC is your exclusive tool for the best points, discounts, and freebies.

KLOOK

Travel apps make far-flung cities easier to navigate, which makes it an absolute must for jet-setters and new travelers alike! From sightseeing trips to hotel bookings, Klook acts as a helpful guide that will make your vacations enjoyable and fuss-free.

GOTYME

Being in your 30s makes you prioritize the right places to put your hard-earned money, fostering mindful spending and saving habits along the way! Newly-launched GoTyme provides next-level banking, with the purpose of unlocking Pinays’ financial potential with the convenience and security of digital banking, supported by best-in-class personal customer service available 24/7.

METROBANK Credit Card

Using your credit card in a smart way can offset some of that spending with perks—as well as help you avoid some common travel hassles. The Metrobank World Mastercard is one of the most sought-after cards for career women with a go-getter lifestyle, giving you double points on overseas spending and up to 50% off on luxury dining deals.

***

Produced by Cass Lazaro and Yssa Cardona

Photos and Art direction by Pau Moyano

Links are updated regularly and as much as possible but note that products can run out of stock, discounts can expire, and listed prices can change without prior notice.