By Sam Faj. Calaca
Angelika Santiago quickly became a standout in the entertainment industry, capturing the public’s attention with her natural charm, expressive performances and undeniable talent. Her ability to connect with audiences made her roles, even the smaller ones, resonate and leave a lasting impression. Whether she was playing a strong-willed character or a more vulnerable role, Angelika brought a depth and relatability to her performances that drew viewers in and set her apart as a promising young talent to watch. Recently, she stepped into a transformative role in the upcoming film Ako si Juan, where she plays St. Therese of Avila, a role that required her to delve deeply into the character’s spirituality and strength. For Angelika, embodying such an iconic figure in religious history was both inspiring and challenging.
Discussing her experience, Angelika shared that portraying St. Therese required intense emotional dedication and brought her closer to the saint’s journey of faith. One of the most challenging aspects, she noted, was mastering her character’s Spanish lines, essential to authentically capturing St. Therese’s background. “I had to work hard on my Spanish,” she admitted. “It was difficult, but I wanted to give justice to her words and convey her message accurately.”
Angelika Santiago’s time at GMA Network included a few memorable projects where she showcased her versatility as a young actress. She appeared in episodes of popular shows like Magpakailanman and Tadhana, both of which are known for their powerful, real-life-inspired stories. In these episodes, Angelika took on emotionally demanding roles that highlighted her talent for portraying complex characters and connecting with audiences on a deep level.
Her stint at GMA also included a minor role in the drama series Kambal, Karibal, where she worked alongside some of the network’s most well-known stars. Though her time with GMA was brief, these projects laid the foundation for her acting career, helping her gain experience and recognition, which later led to her casting as St. Therese of Avila in Ako si Juan.
Angelika extended a heartfelt invitation to audiences, urging everyone to come and watch Ako si Juan, a film she believes carries a powerful story of faith and resilience. “It’s not just a film,” she said. “It’s a journey into the life and legacy of St. Therese that will resonate with many. I hope viewers feel the same inspiration I did while bringing her story to life.”