Gela Atayde has reached a new milestone in her showbiz journey, bagging the Best New Female Personality Award at the 37th PMPC Star Awards for Television for her performance in the ABS-CBN youth drama “Senior High.”
Clearly overwhelmed, the 23-year-old admitted she had not prepared a speech.
“This is crazy. I really did not expect this. Oh my gosh! I do not know what to say but thank you, thank you so much PMPC. ‘Senior High’ really means a lot to me,” she said onstage.
The award marks her first acting recognition after years of making a name in dance. A former member of Legit Status, the 2023 Arizona World Hip Hop Dance Champion, Gela also hosted ABS-CBN’s dance reality show “Time to Dance.”
A graduate of De La Salle University with a degree in Arts Communication, Gela has faced criticism as a so-called “nepo baby” being the youngest daughter of veteran actress Sylvia Sanchez and businessman Art Atayde, and sister to Rep. Arjo Atayde, actress Ria Atayde, and Xavi. She admitted the pressure was immense but credited her mentors and colleagues for guiding her.
“I was new in the industry, pressured by everything especially as a nepo baby. But I really want to thank everyone who believed in me,” she said, singling out the late Deo Endrinal of Dreamscape Entertainment. “Until now, I do not know why he believed in me, but I am thankful to him every day.”
She also expressed gratitude to ABS-CBN executives Cory Vidanes and Laurenti Dyogi, her manager Monch Novales, and her sister Ria.
Reflecting on her “Senior High” stint, Gela described the project as unforgettable.
“Elijah (Canlas) and I were just talking about how it was such a time in our lives. As a cast, our friendship became solid. I really owe this to you guys, my fellow cast members,” she said.
With her first major acting award now under her belt, Gela says she is more determined to grow in her craft—whether in dancing, acting, or hosting.
