Amanda Julia Masigan

MANILA, Philippines - Amanda Julia Siytangco Masigan’s beautiful smile and infectious personality can instantly brighten up one’s day. Amanda has a happy disposition, which mirrors the kindness of her heart.

Being nice comes naturally to this outgoing mestiza beauty as she believes “the universe gives back what you give.” And with this belief, she sees beauty beyond what is standard for many.

“Beauty is having the confidence to show off all your flaws, insecurities and quirks to everyone you meet,” says the bubbly 15-year-old Amanda, daughter of businessman, TV host and journalist Andrew Masigan and restaurateur Sandee Siytangco-Masigan.

Being an only child, Amanda is very close to her parents, and her lola, journalist Deedee Siytangco. She considers her family’s Friday night dinners at home special as they give them more time to bond. For her, the dinner is not just a great way to cap the week off, it also serves as an avenue for priceless, free-flowing conversations among themselves.

“My dad is a very practical man. He constantly reminds me that education is key, as it does not only give you a foundation in life, it also opens up more options for you in the future. And my mom encourages me to keep dreaming. She says your dreams are your passion, which are good for the soul,” Amanda shares.

At 5’7” (and still growing), Amanda is a head turner. But she considers herself a typical teenage girl who loves to hang out with friends, go out for a movie and engage in different activities such as ballet, playing the piano and the guitar. Even at a young age, Amanda knows one thing is certain — the nuggets of wisdom she has learned from those dear to her will keep her on the right path.

“Give the amount of respect you want to receive as respect is something earned, not received. However, respect and being civil are two different things. You can have no respect at all for a person but still be civil to him. If you have the ability to be civil with someone you don’t respect, then you have character.”

With a strong belief in God and her willingness to learn, together with the unwavering guidance of people that matter to her, Amanda sees a bright future ahead of her. “Happiness is being content with what you have and graciously accepting all the blessings that come your way. It is going home to our house and knowing that everything outside doesn’t matter,” she concludes.

Photography by Mau Aguasin • Styling by Mikka Velasquez • Makeup by Ria Aquino for MAC Cosmetics • Hairstyling by Eddie Mar Cabiltes for L’Oréal Professionnel • Jewelry by MILADAY JEWELS • Dresses by Tantease, Powerplant Mall