Andrea Brillantes. ABS-CBN News
MANILA — While Andrea Brillantes looked stunning in the 2026 Tanduay Calendar, she said she did not achieve her initial goal, having been hospitalized for COVID-19 a month before the shoot.
The actress nevertheless is more than content with the results of their shoot.
“I was too weak, so I just stayed disciplined with meal plans. 'Di ko rin sinagad sarili ko because I did not want to rush that I had to look a certain way or specific body shape. Love ko naman body ko, unahin ko health ko. Gusto ko din maging body-positive,” she explained in an interview during the launch in Quezon City, Friday.
“Hangang ngayon meron pa din COVID. Gusto ko lang sabihin may COVID pa din, ingat pa rin lagi,” she added.
Brillantes shared she was very hands-on with the concepts of each layout.
Her personal favorite, however, was her photo on a bed of roses, which was a nod to the film “American Beauty.”
“When I saw the scene, ‘Wow! I want that.’ Noong nalatag na pinush ko and nilaban ko talaga. Mas mapatingin tao kasi pulang pula, roses. Mapapaisip ka ano ba talaga theme,” she explained. “Theme ng calendar is mga era talaga — retro, Victorian. Ayoko magmukha first na post ko, costume. Pinush ko roses para meron ako isang classic.“
Andrea Brillantes. ABS-CBN News
Brillantes was also took part in conceptualizing her unveiling. She revealed her sultry performance of Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” as part of her launch was her idea.
“I discovered the song when I was 13, and I imagined what it feels to be a woman. Naisip ko sana magka moment ako ganoon. And when I they presented na — naisip ko ito bagay kung saan ako. 'Yung damit, petals, dress, everything,” she noted.
The actress said the project marks a new era for her career.
“I wouldn't say bagong Blythe. It is still me. Just braver. Mas brave na ako ngayon. I am really grateful sa lahat ng nangyari,” she added.
Brillantes also appeared bolder with her accessories, sporting what looked like a tongue piercing, which she playfully brushed off when asked about it.
“Ha, I don’t know that. Guni-guni niyo lang. I don’t know,” she teased.