A NEW Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo returns to television through the much-awaited kiddie cooking reality show Junior MasterChef Pinoy Edition. For the very first time in her career, the Philippines’ Queen of Soap Operas will dabble in hosting as she leads the search for the finest young amateur chef in the country.
Joining Santos-Agoncillo are world-renowned Filipino chefs Fernando “Ferns” Aracama, Rolando “Lau” Laudico and JP “Jayps” Anglo who will act as judges to find the first-ever Pinoy Junior MasterChef and award him or her a culinary scholarship and P1 million.
The Philippines is the third country to produce its own Junior Masterchef. The Pinoy edition will start airing on August 20.
So how is the hosting experience so far?
I really need to give my best in this program to make sure that the overwhelming support and trust ABS-CBN is giving me for this project won’t go to waste. Hosting is not my forte but I’m willing to learn.
What kind of host will you be in the show? Will you be the tough one?
Oh, I’m in mommy mode in this show! This show is all heart. The kids are really cute and smart so it’s hard not to have a connection with them. But as a host and their mom in the program, I’m the one to balance their emotions. We don’t want to hurt their feelings but we also need to be honest when it comes to the taste of their dishes. When they’re about to cry, I have to be strong and raise their spirits. You have to be ready with words of encouragement for them.
I heard you had some hesitations about accepting the project.
Well, as I said, hosting isn’t my forte but I can now say that this is a path in my career I’m willing to do. It’s fun and I enjoy it very much.
You’re looking fabulous since you lost the weight from your pregnancy.
Thank you! I subscribe now to the Cohen Diet which is one that is fashioned according to your blood type. I’ve seen it how it works with my friends and I told myself to try it. Of course, I still exercise and take my vitamins because that’s very important.
What effect does this fabulousness have on your husband Ryan?
One reason I dieted was that I wanted to look good for my husband. He’s so handsome and then here I come, the frumpy wife?! No way! (Laughs) Ryan, of course, notices and tells me, “Aba, sume-sexy ka ha!” and of course that makes me all feel giddy inside. It makes me feel like a teenager again. (Laughs)
That’s good! Is your Metro Manila Film Festival movie with Ryan still on?
Yes, and now I can announce we have Eugene Domingo joining us in the cast. It is still directed by one of my favorites, Joey Reyes.
What about your movie with Coco Martin?
Yes, it’s still pushing through. We already got the script and I said, “Please, don’t give this to anyone else!” It’s a very exciting project and we will start shooting soon in time for release next year.
