Modeling Heyday and Return to Acting

Phoemela Baranda has come full circle in her television career on GMA 7. She started as a host of "Extra Challenge" in 2003. Now she is back as a Kapuso actress via the gripping primetime series "Slay," where she plays Margarita, the controlling mother of Gabbi Garcia's character.

- BOY ABUNDA

She is grateful for being given another opportunity. "This time, sana ma-prove ko naman iyong sarili ko as an actress," Phem told me when she guested on "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda."

I worked with her for a long time on "The Buzz," and it was good to see her again after 10 years. I'm happy where she is today in her career and personal life.

Phem started her career as a supermodel when she was 14 years old. She joined the Pink Soda Club at 13, which later opened doors for various projects such as television commercials here and abroad.

Phem looked back on her heyday.

"Talagang sinuwerte ako because regional siya. Meaning, isang commercial they will pay me for the whole region to be aired in the Philippines, Thailand and Singapore. So, malaki talaga iyong naging ipon natin doon," she said.