Kathryn Bernardo: Power beyond the screen
Don’t pit us against each other. We deserve better.”
These were the words of actress Kathryn Bernardo, one of this year’s recipients of the Inquirer Women of Power award. When asked about what it means to be considered a powerful woman, she had a simple yet impactful response.
“I think a woman becomes powerful every time she helps another woman,” Bernardo said. “It’s sad that society often makes us feel like we have to compete, as if we need to be better than other women. But imagine how powerful we could all be if we lifted each other up instead of tearing each other down.”
Instead of rivalry, Bernardo believes in creating a supportive and uplifting space for women. “Find that safe space,” she urged. “It could be your mom, sister, friend, or mentor. There’s something incredible about being able to talk to women who make you feel accepted—those who remind you, ‘You’re okay,’ ‘You’re doing great,’ ‘You’re safe here,’ ‘We’ve got your back.’
“That’s the message we should be spreading,” she added. “We need to stop comparing women and start working together. This isn’t just an issue in showbiz—it happens in every industry. I hope we can slowly break that cycle, little by little.”
The idea of Bernardo receiving the Inquirer Women of Power 2025 award just makes sense.
Beyond breaking records and elevating Philippine cinema with her recent blockbuster projects, Bernardo has been a strong advocate for self-love, wellness, and women empowerment.
Since starting her career in 2003, she has evolved into a mature artist, choosing roles that reflect her growth. More than that, she has become a role model for young women, navigating public scrutiny, controversies, and personal challenges with grace and resilience.
And she isn’t just an actress—she’s also a thriving entrepreneur with multiple successful businesses.
Bernardo’s influence extends far beyond the screen. She shattered records with “Hello, Love, Again,” which became the first Filipino movie to gross over P1 billion globally in just 10 days. As of Dec. 1, 2024, it has earned over P1.4 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing Filipino film of all time.
In 2023, she cemented her status as a bankable solo star with “A Very Good Girl,” proving she doesn’t need a love team to command an audience.
And she’s not stopping anytime soon. Bernardo will soon take on her most challenging role yet in “Elena 1944,” portraying a comfort woman during the Japanese occupation. This project shows her commitment to telling powerful stories, particularly those that present historical injustices faced by women.
Beyond acting
Bernardo’s journey began as a child actress in 2003. She became a household name when she starred in the 2010 remake of “Mara Clara.” Since then, she has become one of the most influential actors in the country.
“I’m still on my journey to being my best self. I’ll get there, but it’s going to take some time,” she once told the Inquirer. Her transformation from a fresh-faced teen star to a confident, empowered woman has been evident on billboards, magazine covers, and social media.
These days, she empowers women by openly discussing her struggles with insecurities and how she overcame them through self-love. In a 2022 interview with this paper—shortly after confidently posting a photo of herself in a two-piece swimsuit on Instagram—she admitted it took her a long time to embrace her body and skin color.
In 2024, through her campaign with a canned seafood company, she encouraged Filipinos to prioritize self-improvement and well-being.
Bernardo uses her influence to support various causes. After starring in the 2019 drama “Hello, Love, Goodbye,” a film depicting the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers, she expressed interest in championing their rights.
She’s also an advocate for animal welfare. Partnering with Cara (Compassion and Responsibility for Animals) Welfare Philippines, she promotes responsible pet ownership and the humane treatment of animals. In 2020, she became an ambassador for its initiatives, including the “Adopt a Cat from Kath” program.
Business-minded
Bernardo is just as savvy in business as she is in acting. From owning a chain of nail salons and beauty lounges nationwide to coowning a luxury resort in Palawan, she proves she’s thinking about her future beyond show business.
Actor Piolo Pascual, her business partner in Isla Amara, praised her financial acumen: “She inspires young people to be smart in handling their finances. She does not limit herself to whatever business she has at the moment.”
Bernardo’s talent manager, Lulu Romero, shared the best advice she’s ever received from the actress: “Kindness goes a long way. It’s something you choose to offer even in difficult situations. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures—sometimes, it’s as simple as lending a hand when someone least expects it.”
Thess Gubi, PR head of Star Magic, noted Bernardo’s remarkable humility. “She carries herself with such grace. Despite her popularity, she remains grounded. What makes her a ‘woman of power’ is her confidence and resilience.”
Mico del Rosario, head of advertising and promotions at ABS-CBN Films, agreed. “People listen to Kathryn—that’s where her power comes from. Every time she speaks, people pay attention, and it comes from a place of kindness.”
Through the years, Bernardo has remained composed under public scrutiny. Whether addressing controversies, handling personal challenges, or navigating a high-profile breakup, she maintains grace, privacy, and dignity—qualities that define a true woman of power.
Her breakup with Daniel Padilla after 11 years made more headlines than her blockbuster “A Very Good Girl,” but she faced it with wisdom and self-assurance.
“I didn’t grow up in this industry constantly being controlled and dictated upon. I was lucky to have had the best guidance and support system,” she has said in a statement. “But since I became an adult, I took it upon myself to take charge of my own life—the projects I work on, the way I dress, the people I surround myself with. I’ve always tried to be my own person. Even when it comes to love—especially when it comes to love.”
