At the Gcash Tap to Pay event, fashion icon Heart Evangelista sat down with legendary host Boy Abunda against the backdrop of a makeshift Parisian rooftop. The setting, with its chic cityscape touches, was fitting for a woman who moves effortlessly between the streets of Manila and the runways of Paris. What followed was a conversation that moved from her current “soft power” era to candid reflections on public narratives, finances, and the role fashion plays in her life.
1. Embracing Her “Soft Power” Era
Heart described this stage of her life as her “soft power” era. For her, it’s about closing certain chapters so she can walk fully into new ones without unnecessary noise or drama. She explained that influence doesn’t always require grand statements, sometimes the quiet confidence of knowing your worth is enough to shift the atmosphere when you enter a room
2. On Her History with Pia Wurtzbach
When Boy posed a hypothetical, “You're on a rooftop in Paris and find yourself with no one but Pia Wurtzbach. What would you tell me?”, Heart revealed they have crossed paths. She explained that she would prefer such encounters without the ever-present media spotlight:
“I’d appreciate if they stop pointing the real cameras on us… I feel like it would be more real if there weren’t any cameras to capture any moment… At the end of the day, she's not really my problem.”
She ended with a knowing smile and the line, “I told you I’m transparent!”
3. Leaving the Past in the Past
Heart acknowledged that not all goodbyes are easy. Some have involved people she once trusted who later used her vulnerabilities against her. Rather than let those experiences harden her, she chooses to redirect her energy toward gratitude and growth. Her focus now is on what’s ahead, not what’s behind.
4. Spending and Saving with Intention
Switching gears, Heart talked about her approach to spending and saving, crediting GCash for helping her stay on track. She revealed that having a clear record of her transactions has made her more disciplined. “Before, cash was just bahala na. Now I can see where my money goes, and it makes me more responsible because I know how hard I worked for it.” For her, financial mindfulness is another form of self-respect.
5. Fashion as Armor
Heart also addressed the perception that fashion is frivolous. For her, clothing is a way to face the day with intention. “I’d rather dress than wear my anxiety on my face. It’s how I choose to face my battles every day.” Whether it’s a bold coat in the middle of summer or a statement gown on the red carpet, each look is part of how she expresses resilience.
From candid truths about public encounters to the small daily choices that shape her life, Heart Evangelista showed that style and substance can go hand in hand. Against that Parisian-inspired backdrop, she left the audience with a portrait of a woman who knows exactly who she is — and isn’t afraid to say it.