Bela Padilla takes acting break to focus on ‘legacy work’

Multi-hypenate Bela Padilla is stepping back from acting to build a mentorship program for aspiring writers, a career pivot made possible by years of strict financial discipline.

Speaking with reporters on the sidelines of a recent media launch for a jewelry brand, the actres-writer-film producer admitted that she saved aggressively in her 20s. In fact, she joked that she still needs tips on how to actually reward herself.

READ: Bela Padilla laments personal struggles: ‘People I’ve uplifted turned a blind eye’

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“I forget to reward myself sometimes. If anyone else can give me tips on how to enjoy my life a bit more, I would need advice on that,” Padilla said.

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During her younger years, the actress said she skipped the usual nightlife and party scene. Instead, she focused on saving up to 60 percent of her income whenever she landed higher-paying projects.

“You wouldn’t see me at bars in my 20s. I feel like I deserve [this freedom] right now,” she shared. “I really needed to work hard, and I enjoyed that part of it. There’s satisfaction in that.”

Now that she is older, Padilla allows herself to enjoy the fruits of her labor. However, she still avoids impulsive splurges.

Rather than buying flashy items, she prefers spending her money on travel, good food, and trips with friends. She only buys classic pieces, such as timeless jewelry, because she views them as long-term investments she can pass down to her kids someday.

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Because of her savings, Padilla now enjoys the freedom to rest and choose where she wants to live. She is currently using this break from acting to focus on a passion project.

“I’m building something. I can’t really talk about it yet. I’m still fixing it,” she revealed. “It’s for creatives. I would love to invite writers who need help, who need guidance. So, it’s more like a workshop or a school for writers.”

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LOOK: Diamond Star Maricel Soriano and Bela Padilla lead the red carpet premiere of their family drama film “Life After You” on Monday night, Sept. 7, at a mall in Mandaluyong. The movie premieres in local cinemas on Sept. 9. | @JessEINQ pic.twitter.com/BTSrtXiPok

— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) September 7, 2026

After working non-stop for the first eight months of the year—including filming her drama movie “Life After You” alongside veteran actress Maricel Soriano—Padilla said she is simply “busy living.”

“I’m doing things I want to do. I’m building something that I feel like I can leave behind,” she added. “It’s more of a legacy work than work-work. It’s time to share what you’ve learned.”

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Padilla noted that she will announce more details about the writing program once the plans are finalized. /edv