The naked truth about Vanna Garcia

It’s hard to believe that at 18, young actress Vanna Garcia is already in the middle of so many controversies. First, there was her celebrated breakup with Martin Jickain, her boyfriend of three years and now husband of Quezon City councilor Aiko Melendez. She also starred in a digital movie Tuli, where she figured in a lesbian relationship with Desiree del Valle. And as a controversial proclamation of womanhood, she became the FHM January 2006 cover.

Not that she is not qualified. She’s got a winsome, all-natural, 34-26-34 1Ú2 figure. But it came as a shock to most that a sweet girl-next-door celebrity managed by Viva would take the sexy and controversial route to stardom.  She is quoted as saying that she is tired of her sweet image and feels limited by it. She regards her bold and mature roles as steps toward a higher acting level. She also clarifies that the sexy photos only serve as teasers to the daring movie.

When asked how she feels about being the object of male fantasies, she says that she is flattered that people admire her body. It is her dream though for people to admire her more for her acting prowess than her looks.  

Philippine STAR: What made you pose for the cover of FHM?

Vanna Garcia: I decided to pose for FHM because I knew the pictures would be artfully taken. It was a celebration of me being a woman – nothing more.

Which part of your body are you most proud of?

My legs and shoulders. 

Which body part do you still wish to develop?

I want to develop my abs and back by doing the proper exercises. My current program is designed to tone and strengthen them.

How did you prepare for the FHM pictorial physically and mentally?

I worked out a lot and ate just the right amount of food.  Mentally, I had to prepare myself for how people would react. I knew there would be mixed reactions to it.

What can the public expect of you, image and career-wise?

Honestly, I don’t see myself in show business anymore 10 years from now. But until then, I will continue doing what I love – acting. I will be taking on more challenging roles, and, given the chance, I would like to try hosting. I will also be pursuing a career in interior design very soon.

Have you always been sexy?

A woman is sexy if she is confident and has substance. If she is able to carry on intelligent conversations and inspire others by being herself. If that is the definition of sexy, I would like to think that I have been sexy for sometime now.

What is your diet like?

I eat anything I want but in moderation, of course.

Have you ever been overweight or underweight? 

I was underweight when I was younger, I used to be really thin. I guess that was just because I was still young and my body had not developed yet.

How often do you work out? Describe your workout.

I work out whenever I can. Lately, I have been going to the gym five times a week. And whenever I am at the gym, I am very intense. For those days I can’t work out at the gym, I make sure I work on my abs at home – and that means a lot of sit-ups.

Are you engaged in any sports?

I am really not into sports, but I do enjoy playing frisbee and shooting hoops with friends. My friends say that I get into the game so much that I act like one of the guys.

How was your lifestyle when you were younger?

I have always led an active life. When I was still in school, I joined a lot of sporting events. Actually, my mom works out a lot, too. She definitely takes care of her body. She has inspired me to be fit and lead a healthy lifestyle.

How do you handle stress?

I keep my cool and face the problem – I deal with it and then let it go. That’s why I don’t get stressed out a lot.

How do you maintain great-looking skin?        

When I’m not taping or shooting, I hardly put on makeup, so my face gets to rest. And when I do put makeup, I see to it that I clean my face afterwards, and I never sleep with makeup on. Of course, we all need a little help – so, I go to Dr. Calayan for facials.

Do you sleep a lot?

I see to it that I get enough sleep. And I do take forty winks whenever I can.

Do you drink enough water? How about vitamins and supplements? 

Yes, I do drink a lot of water.  (But) I don’t take any supplements. I just make sure that I maintain a balanced diet.

Any health tips for young women like you?      

I just want to say that all of you should take care of yourselves. It is never too early or too late to start. Be active, eat healthy, and maintain a balanced diet. Of course, get enough sleep. But more importantly, make sure not to stress yourself too much. Love yourself, be grateful and be optimistic.

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Post me a note at mylene@goldsgym.com.ph