Despite a string of personal and professional detours, Jessy Mendiola Manzano and Luis Manzano have arrived at a place of calm confidence, one that allowed them to slow down, reassess, and ultimately move forward with clarity and gratitude.
Jessy stepped away from television and film for several years to embrace motherhood, a conscious choice that took her out of the spotlight. Her return, however, came with quiet triumph: she recently wrapped up work on a television series that not only marked her comeback but also resonated strongly with viewers.
Luis, meanwhile, faced a very public loss after an unsuccessful run in Batangas politics. Yet instead of dwelling on the defeat, he found himself realigned with the work he knows best and is happier for it, juggling several hosting jobs and rediscovering his rhythm in showbiz.
The couple recently met with members of the press, opening up about the lessons behind these shifts.
For Luis, the key word is “redirection,” something he now believes serves as protection from paths not meant to last.
On returning to politics, he was candid: “Honestly, hindi ko na naiisip. After everything na we went through… para sa akin, I found my niche once again.”
He admitted the months after the elections were unsettling. “Right after the campaign, the election. For a while, I was lost. Pero after, everything fell into place right away. Ayoko na sayangin din ’yun kasi not everyone is given a second chance na manumbalik sa industriya.”
Today, his priorities are simple: “As of now, my main focus is balik sa pagho-host and taking care of the family. But marami pa rin akong itutulong din naman sa Batangas.”
Jessy, on the other hand, speaks from a place of fulfillment. “I can confidently say na nahanap na namin yung tamang pattern para sa aming dalawa, sa pamilya namin, and individually,” she shared, reflecting on the balance they’ve built.
She also expressed gratitude for being welcomed back to television: “I’m grateful to ABS-CBN also… After 6 long years… aakting ulit ang Jessy Mendiola.”
As the year winds down, Jessy’s hopes extend beyond her own home—peace, warmth, and love for those still facing hardships.
Looking ahead, Luis teased a busy 2026 with returning and new game shows on the horizon.
