“Bulilit, bulilit, sanay sa masikip… kung kumilos, kumilos ang liit-liit!”
If you grew up watching television in the mid-2000s, chances are you can still hum that jingle word for word. It was catchy, adorable, and unforgettable — thanks to one tiny, wide-eyed little girl whose charm captured the hearts of millions of Filipinos: Chacha Cañete.

That commercial for Camella Homes wasn’t just a hit advertisement; it was the launchpad for one of the most recognizable child stars of her generation. With her cute smile, boundless energy, and comedic timing, Chacha became an instant household name. What began as a simple TV jingle turned into the beginning of a lifelong artistic journey — one filled with laughter, music, and self-discovery.

The Little Girl Who Captured the Nation

Born Trisha Louise Cañete on October 6, 2004, in Manila, Chacha’s entrance into showbiz was almost serendipitous. She was discovered by director Erik Matti inside a coffee shop at the ABS-CBN compound. Even at just four years old, she had a rare blend of confidence and natural charisma. Her expressive face and playful delivery caught everyone’s attention — and soon after, she landed her first big break: the Camella Homes commercial that would define a generation of Filipino advertising.

The ad, which humorously compared “masikip” and “maluwag” houses, became a viral sensation long before the age of TikTok and YouTube trends. Chacha’s infectious energy and the catchy tune made her a star overnight.

From Commercial Darling to “Goin’ Bulilit” Star

After the success of the commercial, ABS-CBN quickly saw her potential. In 2009, Chacha joined the network’s hit kiddie gag show “Goin’ Bulilit,” a training ground for young comedians and future stars. For seven years — until her graduation in 2014 — she brought joy, wit, and laughter to Sunday evenings.

But behind the jokes and skits, Chacha was more than just a funny kid. She had a voice — a powerful, soulful voice that would later define her next chapter.

Discovering the Voice Within

In 2012, under Star Records, she released her first album titled “Bulilit Rockstar.” The album showcased her vocal abilities and proved that she was more than a comedic actress — she was a genuine performer.

The following years marked her transition from child entertainer to serious artist. In 2013, Chacha represented the Philippines at the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Los Angeles, bringing home two silver medals — a rare feat for a Filipino child performer.

Then, in 2014, she traveled to Berlin, Germany, to compete in the Europop International Singing Competition, where she won second place. It was a proud moment for the young star and for the Philippines — proof that her talent resonated even on the world stage.

Choosing Education Over Spotlight

After graduating from Goin’ Bulilit, Chacha made a bold decision: she stepped away from showbiz. There was no controversy, no scandal — just a personal choice to focus on her studies and personal growth.

In a 2023 interview with veteran journalist Bernadette Sembrano on her vlog, Chacha shared the reason behind her temporary retreat. “I wanted to finish my studies first,” she said. “Showbiz will always be there, but education is something I can keep forever.”

She went on to complete Senior High School at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and planned to pursue college at Ateneo de Manila University. During her years away from the spotlight, she continued honing her musical skills — not for fame, but for passion.

Her family supported her all the way, even setting up a small studio at home so she could continue practicing. “They bought me a decent microphone,” she recalled. “I would sing anywhere — even in the shower.”

A New Sound, A New Chapter

In 2020, Chacha made a quiet but meaningful return to the music scene with the Christmas single “Pasko Pa Rin”, followed by “Agwat” in 2021. These songs showcased her maturity — both emotional and artistic. Her once playful tone had evolved into something more soulful, reflective, and distinctly her own.

Far from the “Bulilit” image, Chacha now writes and sings about love, growth, and life’s transitions. She cites influences like Sarah Geronimo, Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, and Olivia Rodrigo, as well as Broadway legends like Lea Salonga. Her diverse taste reflects her versatility as an artist — someone who can blend pop, ballad, and theatrical performance with ease.

Growing Up Gracefully

What makes Chacha Cañete’s story truly remarkable is how gracefully she transitioned from child fame to adulthood. Many child stars fade into obscurity or become trapped in their early image. But Chacha has managed to stay grounded, focused, and scandal-free — a testament to her upbringing and personal discipline.

She acknowledges that her “Bulilit” persona will always be a part of her identity, but she’s determined to show that she’s more than that. “People will always remember the jingle,” she said in an interview. “And I’m grateful for that. But now, I want them to remember my music too.”

Beyond the Spotlight

Now in her 20s, Chacha Cañete represents a new generation of artists — thoughtful, creative, and socially aware. She doesn’t chase trends or viral fame; instead, she aims to create songs with meaning and emotional depth. “I want to make music that helps people feel something — comfort, joy, hope,” she shared.

She’s proof that fame doesn’t have to consume you, and that child stars can grow into mature, well-rounded artists when given space to breathe and evolve.

From that iconic Camella Homes jingle to international competitions, from Goin’ Bulilit laughter to heartfelt ballads, Chacha’s journey is a story of transformation — of how a tiny girl with a big voice learned to turn childhood fame into lifelong artistry.

And as her new music continues to reach more ears, one thing is certain: the little “bulilit” who once danced in tight spaces is now ready to conquer much bigger stages.