Bela Padilla Returns to ABS-CBN: “I Feel Like Everything Has Been Worth It”
MANILA – Multi-talented actress, screenwriter, and director Bela Padilla has officially returned to her home network, ABS-CBN, after signing a new network and management contract on Monday, August 25, 2025.
The signing was attended by top ABS-CBN executives including President and CEO Carlo Katigbak, Chairman Mark Lopez, COO for Broadcast Cory Vidanes, CFO Rick Tan, and Star Magic Head Laurenti Dyogi. Padilla’s managers, Deejaye dela Paz and Pia Campos, were also present.
Overwhelmed with joy, Padilla said:
“I’m so excited I got here so early… Thank you to everyone who’s here today. I’m so happy to be here. I think everyone at this table knows it wasn’t an easy process, but now that it’s finally happening, I feel like everything has been worth it.”
From Teen Star to Multifaceted Artist
Bela Padilla began her showbiz journey at just 16 years old as part of Star Magic Batch 15 in 2007. Over the years, she made a name for herself not just as an actress but also as a writer, producer, and director. She gained wide recognition for her role as Carmen in the hit action series “Ang Probinsyano” when she was 24.
In 2021, Padilla relocated to London to pursue personal goals and creative growth. But in 2025, she made the big move back to the Philippines and is now ready to resume full-time work in local showbiz.
A New Chapter with Star Magic
At the media conference following the contract signing, Bela shared her excitement about working again with Star Magic, the agency that launched her career.
“I feel like the direction the agency is taking now is very aligned with what I do as an artist. I can’t really compare who I was at 16 with who I am now. I’ve grown so much, both as an artist and as a person. This feels like a fresh start all over again.”
When asked about possible collaborations, Padilla mentioned she hopes to work with her long-time friends and fellow actresses Angelica Panganiban and Kim Chiu.
“I would really love to work with Angelica and Kim. They are two of my best friends in the industry, and I think it would be so much fun to do a project together.”
What’s Next for Bela?
Bela confirmed that she’s slowly easing back into television work but is also open to exploring theater, following in the footsteps of her friend Angelica Panganiban, who recently had a successful stage debut.
Aside from acting, Bela remains committed to writing, which she describes as therapeutic for her:
“Writing has always been a form of therapy for me. It’s something I’ll definitely continue doing.”
Asked whether she’d be open to appearing in the hit ABS-CBN teleserye “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo”, Padilla responded enthusiastically:
“Why not? If the filming is done by then, I’d definitely be up for it.”
She also revealed that she has two upcoming films:
“100 Awit Para Kay Stela”, which is set to premiere on September 10,
and a reunion project with actor Carlo Aquino, which is currently in production.
Conclusion
Bela Padilla’s return to ABS-CBN marks not only a homecoming to the network that shaped her early career, but also the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With her artistic maturity, creative vision, and undeniable talent, audiences can expect meaningful and compelling projects from her in the near future.
