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Showbiz to 6 caregiving centers: Ella V shares ‘American dream’

Viva Hot Babes members Gwen Garci (left) and Ella Manalang at the ABS-CBN Digital Studios in Quezon City on October 8, 2026. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/FileViva Hot Babes members Gwen Garci (left) and Ella Manalang at the ABS-CBN Digital Studios in Quezon City on October 8, 2026. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/File

From performing before thousands of fans as a member of the Viva Hot Babes to building a caregiving business in the United States, Ella V has experienced a remarkable transformation, one shaped by perseverance, faith, and a commitment to helping others.

In an emotional appearance on the “Oh My Gan!” vodcast, Ella shared how she transitioned from her entertainment career in the Philippines to becoming a businesswoman in the United States.

Before joining the Viva Hot Babes, Ella V. worked for Viva as a receptionist before becoming an assistant to Viva Video City executive Teddy Del Rosario. Although she initially hesitated when the opportunity to become a performer arose, she eventually auditioned and became part of the group.

Years later, she moved to the United States, where she faced a different set of challenges.

“I started very rock bottom. I started being a caregiver,” Ella recalled, becoming emotional as she described her early experiences in the caregiving industry.

Determined to establish her own agency, she studied caregiving and learned the business through her husband’s family. She also worked to improve her English and understand American culture, experiences she described as difficult but necessary to her growth.

“It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish,” she said, reflecting on the mindset that helped her persevere.

Ella eventually established a family-owned caregiving business with her husband, who also works in the medical field. During the interview, she shared that the business had grown to six caregiving centers, with plans to expand to seven.

For Ella, however, success is not measured by financial achievements alone. She emphasized the importance of recognizing caregivers, whose work provides essential support to individuals with special needs and their families.

“I always tell them na it’s never too late to dream,” she said, encouraging caregivers to take pride in their profession and continue working toward their goals.

She also expressed gratitude for the opportunities she has received, crediting her faith and supportive husband for helping her build a new life abroad.

Her success has allowed her to give back to her family, friends, and community. Ella remains particularly close to her fellow Viva Hot Babes, whom she considers family despite the distance separating them.

Her support for the group extends beyond emotional encouragement. She revealed that she is among the sponsors of their upcoming reunion concert, helping cover expenses for their stylist, clothing, and makeup artist.

Ella said the reunion is especially meaningful because it celebrates a friendship that began long before social media became central to the entertainment industry.

“We were organic,” she said, reflecting on how the group built its popularity through live performances and genuine connections with audiences.

She also described her fellow members as people whose beauty extends beyond their public image, praising their character and the bond they have maintained over the years.

For Ella, returning to the Philippines and reuniting with the Viva Hot Babes is a reminder of how far she has come and of the relationships that have remained constant throughout her journey.

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