There’s no doubt that Filipino actors are a talented bunch. We have actress Dolly de Leon, a strong Oscar nominee contender for starring in the critically acclaimed film Triangle of Sadness. There’s also Kylie Versoza (The Housemaid) and Coleen Garcia (Kaluskos), who both received recognition from international award-giving bodies for their outstanding performances. And yesterday, Jodi Sta. Maria made everyone proud as she reached another milestone in her career, recognized by the Asian Academy Creative Awards.

Philippines represent!

It’s a win for the Philippines! Asian Academy Creative Awards hailed actress Jodi Sta Maria as this year’s Best Actress in a Leading Role for The Broken Marriage Vow. She won over other international nominees like South Korea’s Kim Hye-soo and Rebecca Lim of Singapore. While making her acceptance speech, Jodi turned emotional as she thanked everyone behind the TV series.

“My co-actors, the production team — I always say that it takes a village to be able to produce a wonderful series. I’m lost for words, but again, thank you. This is the highlight of my year,” the actress said.

The Broken Marriage Vow is the Philippine adaptation of the hit British drama Doctor Foster.

But the road to the pinaka-exciting part wasn’t easy

Acting is a craft that demands more than talent and dedication to deliver a stellar performance. In a past interview, Jodi admitted that Dra. Jill is one of the most challenging roles she portrayed in her career, given the character’s depth and multi-layered qualities. She even thought The Broken Marriage Vow might be the last series she’ll do because she felt physically and mentally exhausted.

“I don’t know if I have anything else to give to the next project that I have given here. It hasn’t really been easy. I felt like I don’t have anything else to offer after this, so that’s the time,” she said.

Thankfully, it looks like Jodi changed her mind because we’re seeing her on the big screen soon for an upcoming rom-com flick with Coco Martin entitled Labyu With An Accent.

Proving her doubters wrong

From her roles as George Fuentebella of Tabing Ilog and Maya Dela Rosa of Be Careful With My Heart to Dra. Jill Illustre of The Broken Marriage Vow, Jodi has proven that she’s one of the most versatile actresses in the country. Some netizens say this Best Actress trophy is a testament that Jodi deserves to play the role of Dra. Jill.

And to all the up-and-coming young actors, remember this advice from Jodi: “Never lose that passion for their craft, and never stop improving — and never stop dreaming.”

Congratulations, Jodi!

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