This is an excerpt from the June 2026 Special Issue. Subscribe to MEGA Digital All-Access to read the full story.
In the December 2022 issue of MEGA Entertainment, Nadine Lustre firmly shared an outspoken perspective about herself: “I’m a human being, and I feel. And I am not going to let my being a public figure stop me from speaking my mind. Before, walang room to breathe. Medyo blurry na siya. But, I like my life now. I am in control.”
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When one considers that those who work in the entertainment industry are often expected to protect their reputations by being as tight-lipped as possible, it’s a strong statement. In some aspects, Lustre follows this by maintaining her privacy. But she is also a Scorpio, which means she is fiercely independent and passionate when it comes to what she cares about.
Art, for example, is one of those passions. Much has happened since her days as a young star. Today, the award-winning actress is recognized as one of the defining artists of her generation, earning critical acclaim for films such as Never Not Love You, Ulan, Greed, and Deleter. Beyond traditional acting and singing, Lustre continues to expand her creative footprint through directing, visual arts, and producing. She has also become an entrepreneur, establishing a vegan restaurant called Ver De Siargao with her partner, Christophe Bariou, the sustainable coconut milk brand Dehusk, and Maison Bukana Wines.
It’s outstanding what she has already built with performances that earned her Best Actress wins from Gawad Urian Awards, FAMAS Awards, and Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). Yet what truly makes her a beloved figure are her advocacies. Most recently, the actress took to social media to speak up about the distressing news happening in Siargao, as well as the rest of the country, that has been weighing on her mind. “I believe it’s still worth reminding ourselves to move through the world with more mindfulness,” she shared. “More awareness. More love and compassion. More respect for people, communities, nature, animals, and lives outside of our own.”
For someone who refuses to live within a bubble, the Philippines offers countless realities that demand attention. Lustre’s concerns extend well beyond herself. The strength of her character is defined by her awareness of who she is, what she wants, and where her principles lie. As she continues to move forward, she remains guided by the same clarity and conviction that shaped her journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lustre has received Best Actress recognition from three of the Philippines’ most prominent award-giving bodies — the Gawad Urian Awards, FAMAS Awards, and the Metro Manila Film Festival. Her acclaimed film work includes Never Not Love You, Ulan, Greed, and Deleter, across which she has demonstrated consistent critical recognition.
Beyond her work in film and music, Lustre has established several ventures: Ver De Siargao, a vegan restaurant co-founded with her partner Christophe Bariou; Dehusk, a sustainable coconut milk brand; and Maison Bukana Wines. The businesses reflect her long-standing interests in sustainability, community, and the Siargao region.
In addition to acting and singing, Lustre has expanded her creative practice into directing, visual arts, and producing. She has spoken about the importance of maintaining authorship over her own narrative — both in her artistic work and in how she chooses to present herself publicly.
Lustre has used her platform to speak openly about issues affecting Siargao and the broader Philippines, including environmental concerns and social awareness. She has framed her advocacy around mindfulness, compassion, and respect for communities, nature, and lives beyond one’s immediate sphere.
Lustre has been candid about rejecting the expectation that public figures remain tight-lipped to protect their reputations. She has described her current approach to public life as one defined by control, clarity, and the freedom to speak her mind — a position she has held and articulated since at least her 2022 MEGA Entertainment cover feature.
MEGA Archives May 2025. Photographed by BJ PASCUAL. Makeup by JELLY EUGENIO. Hair by PAUL NEBRES. Styled by ROKO ARCEO
