Barbie Forteza on self-growth: Make time for yourself

Metro Manila, Philippines - Actress Barbie Forteza is entering her self-love era.

Opening up about her recent breakup with long-time partner Jak Roberto, Forteza shared reflections on identity, healing, and personal growth, not with heartbreak, but with honesty.

“Kahit may ka-relasyon ka, always make time for yourself… Magkaroon ka ng me time para magkaroon ka ng identity, makilala mo ang sarili mo outside that relationship, para kahit sa sarili mo nag-grow ka kahit nasa isa kang relasyon,” she said.

[Translation: Even if you’re in a relationship, always make time for yourself. Have your own space to get to know who you are outside of that partnership, so you continue growing — even while in love.]

In an interview with Toni Gonzaga released on July 6, Forteza revealed that her split with her boyfriend of seven years was not marked by pain.

“I’m happy. The transition was smooth. Breakups are supposed to hurt, right? But for me, it wasn’t that painful,” she admitted.

“It just shows how healthy the relationship was. We saw it as a chance for growth, and I can honestly say it was a good run.”

Forteza and Roberto’s breakup was the subject of speculation before they confirmed it publicly. Fans praised the two for handling the separation with maturity and mutual respect.

For Forteza, the end of the relationship became the beginning of something new — not in terms of love, but in rediscovering herself.

“You need to understand who you are outside of the relationship, so that even if you’re with someone, you’re still evolving,” she said.

Forte is among GMA Network’s bankable actresses and currently leads in the primetime drama “Beauty Empire.”