Diva: A force to reckon with in 'StarStruck V'

CEBU, Philippines - Cebuana beauty Diva Montelaba is out to prove she has what it takes to be the next StarStruck Ultimate Survivor.

Born Hyacinth Diva Montelaba, “Diva,” as she is fondly called, radiates a certain glow that comes from within. At first glance, one would surely notice that the Cebuana beauty has been blessed with enviable attributes—good looks, supermodel height, and a natural sun-kissed complexion.

But beyond her looks, Diva takes pride in her singing, dancing, and acting skills – a total performer, as tagged by many. So far, Diva has already won two special awards in StarStruck – the Best Actress award for the Christ-mas Kiss Flicks challenge, the Director’s choice, and the Best Dance Performer award.

A beauty queen in her homeland Cebu, with various titles under her belt, Diva is no beginner when it comes to competitions. Her experience in facing crowds during competitions has helped her build her confidence and hone her talents.

Diva’s strengths are recognized by her co-finalists, too. She was the unanimous choice of her co-finalists when they were asked who they think was the strongest contender in the competition. “I feel good pag sinasabi nila yun pero syempre it’s not enough reason para mag- relax at maging kampante,” said Diva.

Amidst all the praises that Diva has been getting, she related that things were not always easy in her life. “Dati talaga na-i-insecure ako sa skin ko, pero ngayon mas nagiging confident na ako. Nung ginupitan yung hair ko parang nagkaroon ng new Diva, nagkaroon ng character,” Diva shared.

Diva’s parents were separated when she was three years old. Her mother has her own family now in Cebu and Diva has only met her father once. Diva grew up with her Lola in Cebu, whom she is very close to. “Si Lola talaga yung inspiration ko sa pagsali ko sa StarStruck,” Diva said.

Dealing with pressure every day, Diva draws strength from her family and fans. “Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga fans kasi hindi ako mapupunta dito kung wala sila. I want to make a change at proud ako na may bisaya na nakasali sa Final 14,” she said.

“Ako ang dapat maging Ultimate Survivor kasi ipinapakita ko lahat ng kaya ko sa mga challenges, hardworking ako at napakarami ko nang sacrifices para po rito,” Diva related.

Armed with beauty, talent, and attitude, Diva is surely a force to reckon with. Truly, Diva’s star is shining brightly in the competition.

Fans may vote for Diva by texting Starstruck Diva to 367 for Smart and TalkNText subscribers and 2344 for Globe, TM and Sun subscribers.

Star-Struck airs every Saturday after Pinoy Records and Sunday after Kap’s Amazing Stories on GMA.