Andi Manzano-Reyes: Back On Air

Looking back at our previous cover stories on Andi Manzano-Reyes this month, where we talked about breaking her norm with K-Beauty, her rise as one of the most influential social media personalities of today, and how she juggles her roles as a wife, mother, daughter, and sister despite her hectic schedule, let’s not forget that she was also one of the most recognized DJ’s of Magic 89.9, a place that Andi likes to call her second home. From co-hosting Good Times with Mo Twister and Mojo Jojo, before teaming up with Riki Flo for the afternoon show on weekdays, her wit, articulate way of speaking, and chemistry with fellow hosts, were just a few reasons why the audience tuned in to her show daily.

Being back on air was something Andi never thought she’d be doing again, given how she chooses to be hands-on in taking care of Olivia. But as she shares that she practically grew up with Magic, not to mention the topic was more in line with who and what she is now, doing The Mother Show alongside Delamar and Riki Flo (who is also a first-time mom!) was something Andi was excited to be a part of.

We heard that you’re back on the radio! What made you decide to go back?

Actually, I never thought of coming back. It’s fun, but I can’t do it every day because I’d still pick Olivia over radio. But it’s once a week, every Friday, and it’s a topic that I love because it’s about being a mom. It’s a different stage in life. It’s something that I thought I would never do but they offered, and it’s with people that I also admire as moms—so it’s exciting!

It’s called The Mother Show, right? Will non-moms still be able to relate?

Yeah, because we would also discuss husband-related stuff or household problems. People will be able to call and share funny stories or ask for advice.

Will there be babies on the show?

I haven’t thought about it! Well, Olivia can talk now so maybe we can interview her. The whole car ride here, she was like, “Mom, you know what? Blah, blah, blah.” And the thing now is—you know how sometimes you’re so used to her voice already that you just zone out? She asks a question maybe ten times, but sometimes I’m just like, “Huh What?” You know, because you’re so used to it already. It’s funny.

Aside from doing radio, do you have any other plans? Do you plan to start your own business?

I actually have a business, but we’ve been in the development stage. We’ve been testing it for almost eight months, and we just want to perfect it. So that’s one. We’re also putting together a mommy group, so that’s another thing I’ve been focusing on. We plan to create a community for moms—either get-togethers or events, and a website where you can share your problems. We’re kind of spearheading it because it’s the next thing, right? You don’t just want to be an influencer—you want to reach out to people and build a community where you can support each other. Before, you would ask your own moms for advice. But now, you also look towards different websites, influencers you follow, Facebook groups, etc. It’s different now. There’s so much information online, and sometimes you just have to filter it. You don’t have to follow everything.

I’m sure there are a lot of people who can relate, and who are also in that stage. It must be overwhelming.

Yeah. Especially with social media. There are many judgy moms. You just have to ignore.

Have you ever encountered comments from judgy moms?

Oh yeah, plenty. Like—why are you exposing your child to this? Yung mga ganun. You know things like, “You’re using your child!” and I’m like, “What?” I think that’s the major one. So yeah, just dedma.

What advice can you give young moms who want to balance both career and family?

For me, just know your priorities. Know what comes first, which is always family. And career would always be there. There’s always something to do. You can always find a way to make money. Because you don’t want to miss out on the big moments. Like this month, Olivia learns something new. Next month, it’s something else. You know—the milestones in their lives, you want to be there for everything.

Is GP also a hands-on dad?

Oh yeah. And what’s good now is that his work, or most of it, is at home. So he’s always home. Sometimes, Olivia even picks him over me! Like, because if you want to do something fun, you do it with daddy. Daddy will give you chocolates, daddy will play with you. But if it’s mommy—it’s eating, taking a bath, and sleeping. I’m the bad cop, but it’s okay.

Are there any trips you have planned soon?

Yes! We actually have a lot of plans, but we haven’t booked anything yet. But next year, we’re going to Europe because GP’s brother is getting married in Paris. And then another friend is getting married in the US. Then we plan to go to Tokyo and Hong Kong this year. A lot of trips are planned! And beaches, I think we’re going to Cebu soon.

Are there any beauty brands that you’d like to work or collaborate with?

All. (laughs) You have a favorite of each eh—you can’t just pick one, right? Maybe for eyebrows, I’ll collaborate with this one. Skin care, I don’t know. As many brands as I could, maybe! But more than makeup, I think it would be skin care I’d like to do more.

What was your favorite Korean-inspired look from the four that Jigs did? And which one was the least “Andi”?

Maybe the least ‘me’ was the red-winged eyeliner look. I guess because I would never imagine myself doing it. I mean, it came out nice still. It just wasn’t a look I thought I’d ever do. My favorite is the one where I was wearing bangs. Even the outfit, my sisters were like, “Ate, is that you?” I guess it’s just fun being different and trying to be someone else for a day.

As we wrap up this month getting to know more about Andi Manzano-Reyes, be sure to follow us on social media @calyxtabeauty to stay updated on the latest beauty reads, trends and deals happening daily!