Cassandra Ynares advocates for youth mental health with support from Bimby Aquino, Dionela
MANILA, Philippines — Cassandra Ynares may have gotten a taste of the showbiz world at the ABS-CBN Ball, but she is in no rush. For now, her studies come first, along with youth-oriented causes she cares about.
At the recent Brighter Together: ABS-CBN Ball 2025 held at Solaire Resort North in Quezon City, the 17-year-old eldest daughter of Antipolo Mayor Junjun Ynares and Andrea Bautista-Ynares stepped into the limelight accompanied by her mother and family friend, fashion designer Paul Cabral, who also created her spring-themed gown.
But beyond the red carpet, Cassandra is currently focused on her mental wellness advocacy. The high school student is the founder of Cassama, an initiative that aims to promote emotional and mental well-being among children and teenagers.
As a student herself, Cassandra understands the pressure young people face. “Just like being in high school, you know, I know firsthand how hard it is to balance academics or school, sports and family, social life. It’s not easy,” she told The STAR. “Mental health is the foundation for everything — you have to have a good mindset to be productive and efficient in whatever you choose to do.”
She added, “Our generation is more open to talking about emotions, therapy and mental struggles. I think it’s important for everyone to be supportive of one another and not criticize others for what they are going through.”
Cassama was launched recently with support from friends, including former presidential grandson Bimby Aquino, young hitmaker Dionela, actress Arra San Agustin, among others.
“Hopefully, through time and with the future generations, we will be able to create a community that’s all about supporting each other and helping one another,” she said.
Asked what small but impactful action fellow young people can do to support one another emotionally, she said: “One thing that people can do is listen without talking. Sometimes people aren’t looking for advice, they just want to feel understood and heard. Many people think that listening is not really doing much but a lot of times, it is what your peers need.”
While some might expect Cassandra to follow in the political footsteps of her parents, she remains open about her future path. “Public service? I’m not entirely sure if I want to go into that field but you know what, it’s a possibility,” she said. “I think anything is possible but we have to see what’s in store for me in the future.”
Asked about her current academic goals, she shared, “If I do study in London, I want to pursue international development. But if I study in the US, I want to major in international relations and minor in art history.”
As for joining showbiz like her uncle, Sen. Bong Revilla, Cassandra isn’t closing the door. “I want to focus on my studies first. When I graduate, I might,” she said.
Her mom, Andrea, echoed that sentiment, saying she wouldn’t object to her daughter entering the entertainment industry — but only after she completes her education.
If ever she does take on an acting role, Cassandra already knows what kind of project she’d prefer: “I don’t want anything like love or romantic love team first, just ‘cause I want to make it on my own and not because I’m partnered with someone else.”
Nevertheless, she experienced a bit of the spotlight after attending the ABS-CBN Ball for the first time. Cassandra shared how it was both nerve-wracking and inspiring. “Attending the ball, I felt very scared at first but I was very excited as well as very grateful to see all the Kapamilyas... It’s just such a good environment to be in,” she said. “What went through my mind was don’t trip, don’t slip — like everyone’s watching!”
She also admitted to being starstruck. “I was very excited to see BINI. I wasn’t able to say hi because, first of all, I got very shy, but seeing them like a couple of feet away from me, it was just so fun.”
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