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Ayen
Munji-Laurel |
THERE’s no doubt that Ayen Munji-Laurel is in a
happy state of mind. It shows from the way she looks and the manner
in which she tells me about her new career plans. Ayen recently
signed up with GMA Artist Center, a move that surprised many. This
latest development to her colorful career is poised to make this
underrated talent more visible locally especially that she is now
with the country’s leading network.
The former princess of Brunei
shares that although she is content with her life as a wife and
mother, she feels that she still wants to do a lot as far as honing
her artistic gifts are concerned.
Ayen trained as a musical theater
artist in her younger days, and even headlined a local production of
Rama Hari at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Her life
changed dramatically when she was swept off her feet by the Prince
of Brunei who later married her, gave her a son and introduced her
to a lavish and privileged lifestyle meant only for the world’s
royalties.
It was also during that period
when Ayen produced Rama Sita, touted as the most expensive Filipino
musical to date. It was in this production where she met Franco
Laurel, who would later become her husband. Her union with the
prince didn’t last very long so she returned home and started a
new chapter in her life.
She has recorded wonderful albums
and mounted fabulous concerts, but now, she wants to try out
television. “Singing is and will my main preoccupation,” she
volunteers, although she wants to dabble in hosting, too. But the
thing that she would want to experience is making a difference in
the lives of other people through television. “I am inspired by
shows like Wish Ko Lang because it can help effect change in other
people’s lives.”
Ayen adds that she is open to
possibilities. “I work hard. I want to try things than can be
fulfilling. Who knows, I might try acting for a soap opera, too?”
It’s definitely a whole new world for the former princess, and
she’s excited about this new development in her career.
--Ricky T. Gallardo
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