Former Vivamax Queen AJ Raval has made her much-anticipated return to acting, marking a new chapter in her career as she stars in the advocacy digital series ‘West Philippine Sea (WPS),’ produced by the Kapisanan ng mga Social Media Broadcasters ng Pilipinas (KSMBPI).
The series, which highlights the pressing issue of territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea, is AJ’s first project after taking a break from the entertainment industry.
During a Zoom media conference on September 25, AJ addressed the public’s assumptions that she had left showbiz or parted ways with her management, Viva Artists Agency. “Just to be clear, wala po akong sinabi na iniwan ko na ang Viva and wala rin akong sinabing ayoko na pong mag-artista. Ang sinabi ko po no’n, may time na nawalan ako ng gana sa pag-aartista,” she clarified.
During her break, AJ focused on personal growth, finishing her high school education, and reflecting on her career. She revealed that she now seeks more meaningful roles that allow her to use her acting skills in ways that resonate with her values. This shift in focus is evident in her decision to join WPS, a project she accepted without discussing financial compensation. “Tinanggap na lang namin siya kasi alam naming makakabuti siya para sa sarili namin at makakabuti siya para sa mga mamamayang Pilipino,” AJ explained.
AJ also confirmed that she has moved on from the sexy roles that initially made her a star. “Parang tapos na ‘ko sa phase na ‘yun, sa part na nagpapa-sexy, nagpapakita ng skin. Gusto ko naman na bago naman, mas maganda, mas makakabuti para sa akin. Okay na ako sa part na nadaanan ko siya, nagawa ko siya (pagpapa-sexy),” she shared. Despite this shift, AJ assured fans that she remains under the management of Viva and has no plans to transfer to another agency.
@lionheartv #AljurAbrenica anong masasabi sa pagki-quit ni @Aj Raval sa pagpapasexy? #AJRaval #EntertainmentNewsPH #TiktokTainmentPH #BestOfTiktokPH #LionhearTV #RAWRNation
AJ’s boyfriend, actor Aljur Abrenica, who also stars in ‘WPS,’ expressed his support for her decision, saying he is proud of her new direction. The series also features AJ’s father, veteran actor Jeric Raval, making it a family affair on set.
The ‘WPS’ series, directed by Karlo Montero, will delve into the ongoing conflict over the West Philippine Sea, aiming to provide awareness and debunk misinformation. It is set to air on free TV, cable, satellite, radio, and Viva One. The cast also includes Rannie and Lance Raymundo, Daiana Menezes, Ali Forbes, Ayanna Misola, Massimo Scofield, Jerica Madrigal, Lala Vinzon, and Roi Vinzon.
AJ’s decision to step away from sexy roles has been met with support from fans and industry peers alike, marking a new, more purposeful phase in her acting career.
