IN PHOTOS: "Papaya Queen" Aya Medel, where is she now?
In the '90s, when one mentions the monicker "Papaya Queen," only one person comes to mind and that is none other than Aya Medel. Fast forward to today, where could she be now and what is she doing? Find out in this gallery.
Sexy actress
In an interview for 'Inside Bicol,' Aya Medel recounted how she started her career in showbiz at 14 as a sexy actress.
Discovery
Aya was spotted by a talent coordinator/scout after she became first runner-up in Mutya ng Tabaco held in Tabaco, Albay. She was asked if she wanted to become a model.
First movie
Aya first shot the movie 'Asong Ulol' where she played a sister role to Ian Veneracion. However, 'Totoy Mola,' a movie that starred Jay Manalo came out first. Since then, Aya's career path led her to do more daring roles.
Filmography
She was able to make 58 movies among the most notable are 'Molata,' 'Babae sa Bubungang Lata,' and 'Padre Kalibre' opposite veteran actor Eddie Garcia.
Modern-day Sisa
Aya's acting in the titular movie 'Sisa' recognized her artistry by movie critics. She was paired opposite Gardo Versoza and the movie was directed by Mario O'Hara.
Foreign films
Aya was also part of several foreign films such as 'Naked Nights,' 'Love and Desire,' 'Troublesome Nights' (a comedy film shown in Hong Kong), and 'Total Aikido' (a film shown in Japan).
TV exposure
During her showbiz stint, Aya also became part of several TV series including 'Daisy Siete' as well as a regular guest on variety shows including 'Eat Bulaga.'
Back to school
Aya admits she didn't get to finish high school. And when she decided to continue her studies, she needed to take up acceleration tests from DepEd. Later on, she took up culinary studies under Chef Gene Gonzales as a backup career after showbiz.
Sous chef
Aya has worked at Intercontinental Tokyo as sous chef before she started her own restaurant business, the IshiAya Garden Bistro located in Tabaco, Albay. It serves Japanese-Filipino fusion cuisine.
Businesswoman
Apart from IshiAya Garden Bistro, Aya has also opened another food business in Legazpi.
Mommy Aya
Apart from being a businesswoman, Aya is a mom to her two kids, Shania Ishi and Simon Grey.
In vitro baby @35
While Aya's youngest child Grey is a product of in vitro fertilization, Ishi is a product of her marriage with Japanese businessman Yoji Hayakawa.
Good parent
After being divorced for about 12 years, Aya maintains a good relationship with her former husband. In fact, she still sees Yoji every so often and visits Japan annually.
Sweet child o'mine
In one of Aya's post, she said: "Having children is my greatest achievement. It was my savior. It switched my focus from the outside to the inside. My children are gifts, they remind me of what's important."
Community helper
Extending help where help is needed at the Mayon Elementary School in Buang, Tabaco City.
