Sparkle teen artist Patricia Coma finds it inspiring to work with established stars

MANILA, Philippines — Patricia Coma is among the Sparkle GMA teen artists who continue to learn the acting ropes. She’s lucky to be part of the GMA Prime series, “Asawa Ng Asawa Ko,” a follow-up to her stints in “First Yaya,” “Abot Kamay na Pangarap,” “First Lady” and “Regal Studio Presents: Me and My House Daddy.”

The Kapuso talent plays Billie/Pusa, the daughter-only child of armed group Kalasag leader, Leon, portrayed by Joem Bascon.

The role is a stark contrast from the previous ones that saw her do mostly light scenes.

“Sa totoo lang po na-enjoy ko po siya ng sobra (actually, I really enjoy it),” said Patricia about her character, who was trained to be a sharpshooter initially in the story and now lives as a regular teenager, in a recent group interview.

In fact, Patricia was enthusiastic when she got wind of that she could audition for the role and Laurice Guillen was directing the TV series.

“So, go agad (right away). Of course, it’s a new production, it’s another script, it’s another character. As an actor, I should always be game,” shared she. “I’m enjoying (the role) even (doing) the dramatic scenes, heavy drama scenes.”

She also said that working with actors such as Sanya Lopez and Gabby Concepcion in “First Yaya” and “First Lady” did prepare her for “Asawa Ng Asawa Ko.” Patricia uses her learning from them in playing Billie. She also has fun in her latest show.

“As in nakaka-inspire yung co-actors (they really inspire me), especially when I see (and watch) them (play their characters),” said Patricia, referring to stars such as Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Liezel Lopez, Rayver Cruz and Joem Bascon. Collaborating with director Laurice is also part of it. “They motivate me to better (myself and my work). The ‘Asawa Ng Asawa Ko’ set is very motivating.”

So far, her confrontation scene with Liezel, as Shaira, the new wife of Jordan (played by Rayver), was Patricia’s biggest and most challenging.

As the show’s followers know, the character Billie has known some secrets that speak of Shaira’s real intention and “identity.” Billie could spill the tea, as Patricia put it, and reveal the truth. Shaira would stand in the way.

In the said scene, Patricia shared that she was challenged to show anger without resorting to shouting. Her character had to keep it to herself, but reveal it through her eyes and the tone of her voice. And the teen star delivered.

“I would (also) love to do a project with my batchmates,” said Patricia about future acting assignments, “the lighthearted, soft-hearted (ones) with school setting… I want to try other (acting approaches) and I find it exciting to do… I’m also open to loveteams if a show needs it.”

“Actually, in this show (‘Asawa Ng Asawa Ko), I’m in a loveteam of some sort, with (my character) Billie and Kuwago, (the character of) Kim De Leon,” added she, who is very grateful that the show’s run has been extended. “Sobrang dami po pa ang nagmahal, ang daming na-intriga sa show, ang daming nanood (a lot have loved, got intrigued and watched it). It’s fulfilling and also exciting to see where the story will lead everyone and where the story will lead itself.”

Aside from pursuing her interest in acting, Patricia is taking up mass communication. The first-year college student is striking a balance between her showbiz commitments and studies. She attends her classes, and if ever she misses one, she makes up for it by doing activities and offline work. Her course provides Patricia with the theoretical and practical knowledge to further appreciate her TV work.

(‘Asawa Ng Asawa Ko’ airs Mondays to Thursdays at 9:35 p.m. on GMA Prime.)