Barbie Forteza
Barbie Forteza is grateful for the fun and frothy sweetheart roles she portrays on GMA 7, from “Meant to Be” and “Inday Will Always Love You” to “Kara Mia” and the TV adaptation of “Anak ni Waray vs Anak ni Biday.” But the 22-year-old actress, now known as her home network’s Primetime Princess, has also learned to spread her thespic wings by way of critically acclaimed indie dramas, like Milo Sogueco’s “Mariquina” (where she won best supporting actress at Cinemalaya) and Louie Ignacio’s “Laut” (best actress at the Fantasporto fest in Portugal).
But how has the world’s “longest and strictest” quarantine changed this Kapuso royalty’s perception of life? We got in touch with the actress last week to find out in this quick Q&A:
You’re no slouch at either comedy or drama. What is more satisfying for you to do?
Both are challenging for me, but being able to pull off a flawless dramatic scene in one take is definitely the most satisfying feeling for me as an actress. The pandemic is changing everything about the way we live.
How has the period of isolation changed you?
I’m glad that it has changed the way I see things. In a good way, I must say. I didn’t feel any anxiety or stress. I felt more responsible for the well-being of my family and mine, and I’ve become more mindful of my income.
What do you intend to do when the quarantine in its many forms will finally be lifted?
I’m eager to get back to work and start earning again. I can’t wait to see my Chicago-based sister and nephew on September 1.
So many people felt trapped by the lockdown. What good thing have you gotten from it and how have you kept yourself productive?
Thankfully, I’ve lived those three months normally. I didn’t feel trapped or anything like that. It felt like a summer vacation from school when I was younger. I try to squeeze in a quick workout or make a TikTok dance video to keep myself fit, and I always finish my day by watching movies.
If you could visit three places immediately after the travel ban is lifted, where would you go?
As earlier mentioned, Chicago would be No. 1. I can’t wait to see my sister again! No. 2, Japan. Jak (Roberto, her boyfriend) and I love that country so much—the food, the weather and the people. Everything about it is amazing! Third, Korea. We were supposed to go there for the Holy Week, but sadly, we had to cancel it due to the pandemic.