Beauty queen Nina Ricci Alagao is one of many beauty title holders who entered show business after leaving the pageant scene (dapat pala nag beauty queen muna ako!). She relinquished her crown in 2001 and since then, we would see her on several TV and in movie projects. (Ako ata pang school project na lang!)
“Showbiz is a natural extension of beauty contest, at least here in the Philippines. I’ve been an actress for as long as I’ve been a beauty queen, although I was never full-time.” Nina said. (Ako, kahit part time waley!)
Nina Ricci Alagao
She is always grateful to her Binibining Pilipinas and Miss Universe pageant experience for opening doors for her. But, she has this to say to those pageant graduates who never had a crown. “Pageants are merely a platform for growth, a stepping stone to finding oneself, a channel through which one’s advocacy may be heard. Win or lose, use the experience for your betterment, and inspire others by who you have become.” (Bongga ka! Bigyan pa ng maraming korona si ate!!!)
In her almost two decades in the entertainment business, she believes hardwork and passion will always be the key to success. (Makabili nga ng key na yan!)
“There is no formula for staying long in the industry really. If there’s anything, I always put my heart into what I do, and try to do better with every opportunity given, not only in showbiz but everywhere else,” Nina shared. (Paano kung pagod na ang puso? Pagod?!)
The 40-year-old actress finds a certain fulfillment with her acting projects. “In acting, I constantly learn and get better. Working with different actors broadens my perspective, thus allowing growth for me as an actress.” (Gusto ko magkaroon ng actor sa buhay ko!)
She considers her recent role as Mercedes Palacio on the TV series “Wildflower” a memorable project. “I want a role that wows viewers, like that which is skilled with her hands, weaponry etc. I like the concept of a superhero or villain but not too fancy or costume-y, instead one that is imaginable in the real world. I would also like to try the role of an iskwater as I am often cast in medyo sosyal roles. Of course there is that longing to show how versatile I am.” (Ay, ako gusto ko gay roles, para iba!)
The UP Fine Arts graduate is active on the art scene. She joins art exhibits to showcase her talent in painting. (Ay, tina-try try ko rin yan!)
“Painting is one thing I love and I cannot allow it to continue to take the backseat. And as I get older, my priorities become simpler and more concrete. I am down to a list of things I want to do seriously and painting is one of them.” Nina explained. (Ako kaya saan ba ako magseseryoso?!)
Years from now, Nina hopes to inspire more people with her projects and advocacies.
“I see myself as a woman of power, empowering other women by sharing what I know and encouraging them to make use of their God-given gifts to improve their lives and the lives of those around them, with the hope that will have a ripple-effect and the growth never stops.” (Gusto ko rin ng power... ’yung marami. Powers! Push!)
(MR.FU hosts on 91.5 Win Radio, 9 a.m.-12 nn, Mondays to Fridays and 9pm-12mn, Saturdays. Twitter/IG: @mrfu_mayganon. FB: MR. FU the Star DJ. Youtube: WTFu. For his artworks: IG: @republic.art FB: Republic Art Gallery)