Ortega, alongside Kapamilya actress, AC Bonifacio, is one of the first Kapuso star to get evicted from the historic PBB Celebrity Collab Edition.
In a vlog interview with showbiz columnist Ogie Diaz, GMA Network’s rising star Ashley Ortega clarified her journey of living independently for three years, a topic that gained attention during her memorable stint on Pinoy Big Brother (PBB).
Ortega’s time in the iconic house gave fans a glimpse into her private life, including her decision to live apart from her family following a misunderstanding with her mother.
Ortega, who captured hearts with her authenticity on PBB, shared that her choice to live alone was not an impulsive act of rebellion but a deliberate step toward independence.
“Hindi naman talaga ako naglayas na just because magka-away kami sa araw na’to… Once I leave the house, alam ko na kaya ko na kaya kong panindigan ang sarili ko,” she explained, emphasizing that her decision was rooted in her confidence to stand on her own. While she chose not to disclose the deeper reasons behind her rift with her mother, Ortega stressed her desire to keep family matters private, away from public judgment.
During her PBB journey, Ortega’s emotional highlight was receiving a heartfelt letter from her mother, which opened the door to reconciliation. Although she has yet to meet her mom in person—having visited their home while her mother was on an out-of-town trip—Ortega expressed her hope for a genuine reconnection, free from the pressures of her newfound fame.
“Marami nang deep layers, marami nang nangyari,” she shared, reflecting on the complex moments that shaped her decision to leave home.
Ortega’s openness about her independence and resilience resonated with fans, earning her widespread support.
“Paglabas ko, sobrang daming suporta at sobrang daming pagmamahal, and hindi po ako makapaniwala,” she told Diaz, marveling at how her story inspired others.
She credited her PBB experience with helping her confront personal challenges, including her mental health. “Mas na-acknowledge ko kung ano ‘yung nararamdaman ko. Kasi in the outside world, I try to just conceal it,” she admitted, noting how the house gave her space to reflect without the distractions of her busy showbiz life.
Inside the PBB house, Ortega was surprised by her ability to disconnect from her phone, which allowed her to focus inward. “Grabe no, kaya pala natin nang walang cellphone?” she recalled with a laugh.
However, she also acknowledged the challenges of being under constant scrutiny, admitting that her straightforward nature may have rubbed some viewers the wrong way. “There are times na talaga namang sa loob ng bahay, hindi mo na maitatago ang sarili mo,” she said, emphasizing the genuine relationships she built despite the cameras.
Ortega expressed gratitude for her PBB journey, which she said strengthened her bond with fans and taught her valuable life lessons. While she has accepted her eviction, she remains open to returning as a houseguest if given the chance.
For now, Ortega continues to shine as one of GMA’s brightest young talents, with a renewed sense of self and a hopeful outlook on mending ties with her family.
