MANILA, Philippines—“I don’t let any obstacles prevent me from what I want to do,” said Judy Ann Santos, television and movie actress. “And I always make it a point to exert maximum effort in everything I get into, be it show biz, family or friends.”

A multi-awarded actress, restaurateur and family woman (she recently adopted a daughter, Yohan), Santos was recently introduced as the latest endorser of Modess napkins in a pep rally-themed launch, dubbed “Aim High, Pinay!”

“I’m thrilled to be chosen as Modess’ representative,” Santos said. “I want to be able to share my story with more people. I want people to know that with hard work, anything is possible.”

She added, “I never expected to achieve what I have today. But because I persevered and never let anyone get me down, I was able to do so many things that I never thought possible, especially since I wasn’t able to graduate.”

Santos has put up the Touch A Heart Foundation, which aims to improve the conditions of the poor Aeta community in Bataan. She also plans to graduate from college despite her hectic schedule. “Iba pa rin yung nakatapos,” she explained. “And I want to set a good example to fans.”

“Modess is a brand that espouses woman empowerment,” said Christine Balingit, senior brand manager of Modess. “Women should embody the ‘Aim High, Kayang-kaya’ philosophy in order for them to surpass every adversity that may block their way to victory.”

Aside from Santos, several other women achievers from various fields were chosen to represent the brand. Dubbed “Modess Champions,” they were also present at the launch to show their support for the campaign.

The group included designer Patrice Ramos-Diaz, writer and singer Pam Pastor, gymnast Caisa Saguisag, young leader Celine Bengzon, and human-rights activist Baicon Macaraya.

“We want women to constantly improve themselves. Their period should not hamper them from reaching for their goals,” Balingit said when asked why Modess chose a female empowerment theme for the brand’s campaign. “Modess helps them achieve this by offering them the best protection possible.”

E-mail the author at biancaconsunji@yahoo.com