Barbie Forteza and David Licauco hope to teach kids to pursue their dreams, live their values

Barbie Forteza and David Licauco are the newest ambassadors of Save the Children Philippines.

During their partnership signing at the GMA Network Boardroom, the Sparkle stars said they would use their platform for good to influence children positively.

In an interview with GMA News Online, Barbie looked back on her own childhood. As someone who grew up without much privilege, the Kapuso Primetime Princess hopes to teach the youth to go after their dreams and maintain their values and boundaries despite life’s challenges.

“I didn’t come from a well-off family. Sobrang humble beginnings talaga. Tricycle driver ‘yung tatay ko, gumagawa ng kahon ng yema ‘yung nanay ko, scholar ang kapatid ko, ang ate ko di ba,” she said.

“Kumbaga hindi siya naging hindrance or hindi siya naging problema para magkaroon kami ng magandang buhay, ng masayang buhay, ng masayang household."

Barbie also shared they are happy as a family and that her family fully supports her acting career.

“So ‘yun, feeling ko, ‘yun ‘yung lesson na sana mai-share ko sa kanila na, kumbaga, hindi big deal ang stature mo sa buhay or kung ano man ang sitwasyon mo ngayon to be a good person, to know your values, to know your rights as a child, as a young generation,” she said.

“You always have a lot of ways to improve yourself and you have to surround yourself with positive people, good working environment, good education, most especially," she added.

David likewise looked back on his past, sharing that it wasn’t always smooth sailing for him especially when he was starting out with acting.

“Siguro hindi nila alam na dati nag-vi-VTR ako. Nag-vi-VTR ako, tas hindi ako nakukuha. Never ako nagkaroon ng commercial before,” the Pambansang Ginoo told GMA News Online.

Despite this, David kept going and never gave up.

"Now, I'm here," he said. ““I think if you have a goal and your system as a person is in place, I think you’ll be able to reach your dreams."

“I think gusto kong ma-impart sa kanila na with hard work, anything is possible," he added.

Barbie and David are currently starring in the historical series “Pulang Araw” as Adelina and Hiroshi.

“Pulang Araw” traces the intertwined lives of four childhood friends: Adelina (Barbie), Teresita (Sanya Lopez), Hiroshi (David), and Eduardo (Alden Richards). As war ravages their homeland and Japanese forces occupy the Philippines, their dreams, friendships, and loyalties are tested, leading them on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. 

In early September, Team BarDa flew out to Thailand for a special project.

“Pulang Araw” airs on GMA Prime on weekdays at 8 p.m. and on Netflix.

— CDC, GMA Integrated News