Angelica Panganiban Uses Theater to Cope With Pain No One Knew About
ANGELICA PANGANIBAN – Actress Angelica Panganiban has finally opened up about the deeply personal reason that led her to step into the world of theater for the very first time.
Angelica Panganiban, a beloved Filipina actress, has recently captured the attention of fans online with a heartfelt Instagram post revealing the emotional reason behind her decision to debut in theater. The actress, who has spent over three decades in the local entertainment industry, shared that her role in Don’t Meow For Me, Catriona was not just a career move—it was a way to cope with grief.
Angelica starred as Phoebe in Ryan Machado’s play, which premiered at this year’s Virgin Labfest (VLF). The production was met with praise and support, including from celebrities like Kim Chiu, who showed up to cheer her on. However, what truly struck a chord with netizens was Angelica’s candid revelation about why she accepted the role.
On Instagram, she reflected on her 32-year showbiz journey, saying, “32 years na pala ako sa industriya. Pero alam talaga ni Lord kung ano ang laman ng puso mo… Wala pa akong lakas ng loob noon.” Despite being offered previous theater roles, Angelica admitted she initially lacked the confidence to take them.
That changed after she read the script for Don’t Meow For Me, Catriona. Angelica shared that the message of the play resonated deeply with her, particularly after losing her mother, Annabelle “Ebela” Panganiban, in August 2024. “Mula nang mabasa ko ang dula… Naisip kong baka magamit ko ang materyal para maitawid ko pa ang pagluluksa. Hindi naman ako nagkamali,” she wrote, revealing how the role became a part of her healing process.
By the end of her post, Angelica shared her admiration for theater and the people behind it. “Kasama ng pangarap, materyal, napakahuhusay na bumubuo ng entablado, nagkaroon ako ng bagong respeto sa sining,” she added.
Her honesty and vulnerability moved many, with fans and fellow artists commending her bravery in channeling personal pain into performance, and embracing a new artistic path through theater.
READ ALSO: Derek Ramsay Opens Up About Angelica Panganiban in Rare Interview