MANILA, Philippines - Daphne Oseña-Paez wears many hats. She is a businesswoman, TV host, producer, mother and wife. All these she can be, because Daphne is not just about style. In fact, she’s more about substance.
Daphne first broke into the local scene in 1996, when she began her broadcasting career in ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs as a reporter for the Malacañang beat. However, it was her stint as co-host of the female-oriented show F — which she herself pitched to studio bosses — that elevated her to household-name status. Today, she has blossomed even more. She is a woman in full bloom, whose dreams can no longer be contained in the small screen alone.
While TV shows like Urban Zone and Cocktails (on TV5’s Aksyon TV) are still on her plate, she has added on a lot of other dishes to complete her recipe for success. She is currently creative director for Daphne, a brand she created to christen every product she gets interested in. Her first line under the Daphne brand was that of linens (which retailed at Our Home in SM Home World), followed by Daphne Furniture and soon — Daphne Fragrances. Her brand has also become a staple in some of the Metro’s most visited lifestyle zones such as Eastwood, Bonifacio High Street and Greenbelt. As if that’s not enough, she’s also added “blogger” to her growing list of achievements, what with the success of Daphne.ph, a website that reflects her unique sensibilities as a busy, modern woman.
Outside of business and the lifestyle beats, Daphne also enjoys her role as a UNICEF special advocate for children. It is a post she holds dear to her heart, even if it meant being sent to far-flung and sometimes war-torn places in Mindanao. As a UNICEF ambassador, she focuses on malnutrition and maternal health. Her goal is to help educate women on how they may reduce infant mortality through breastfeeding. “In developing countries like the Philippines, not too many women breastfeed after six months. In fact, not too many women breastfeed, period. That’s why we need to remind them of how effective this method is in raising kids,” she explains.
Still, Daphne reminds herself that her priority will always be her children. “I can’t save the world if I can’t save my children. You have to prioritize, work on what’s closest to your heart,” she explains. Being the busy person that she is, this mother of three also admits that her hectic schedule has somehow runneth over. “I like doing things for my kids, attending events at school, but no, I don’t think I can still be part of the PTA (Parent-Teacher Organization) with my crazy schedule,” she confesses with a giggle.
Indeed, good looks can bring you places, but it’s what’s in your head that can make you stay on top. And that is exactly why Daphne is still at the top of her game.
Photography by MAU AGUASIN • Creative direction
by LUIS ESPIRITU, JR. • Styling by RUDOLPH LEONOR • Makeup by RIA AQUINO • Hairstyling by AVRIL SEGUIN • Nude dress by TANGO • Jewelry by MILADAY JEWELS • Shot on location at the DIAMOND HOTEL PHILIPPINES • Special thanks to the management and staff
of Diamond Hotel Philippines