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Melai Cantiveros on fame, family, and fulfillment

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Carmellie Ocampo

<p>In this episode of “The B Side” on Cinema One, host Bianca Gonzalez sat down with Melai Cantiveros, one of the Philippines’ most beloved entertainers. Known for her comedic flair and infectious personality, Melai is proof that humor and heart can take you places—both in career and life.</p><p>From her unforgettable days as the “Inday Kenkay of General Santos City” of “Pinoy Big Brother Doble Up” to her current role as a celebrated talk show host, Melai’s rise has been nothing short of inspiring.</p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="534" referrerPolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cNfkgVeDx4k" title="FULL INTERVIEW with Melai Cantiveros | The B Side | Cinema One" width="949"></iframe></div><p>Bianca complimented her hosting prowess, acknowledging how Melai has come into her own. Melai recounted her hosting debut in 2016 on <strong><u>“<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/magandangbuhay" target="_blank"><em>Magandang Buhay</em></a>”</u></strong> alongside Jolina Magdangal and Karla Estrada. She affectionately recalled the growing pains of their first time working together, saying, “<em>Na-build namin ang chemistry, lots of patience, lots of respect…”</em></p><p>Melai’s hosting instincts go way back. She shared how, as a college student, she used to earn 100 to 200 pesos by hosting small events. Those days taught her to pay close attention to other hosts, a skill she still uses today.</p><p>One of her favorite guests on <strong><u>“<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/magandangbuhay" target="_blank"><em>Magandang Buhay</em></a>”</u></strong> was Donny Pangilinan. She recalled how, since it was Donny’s first time on the show, he gained valuable exposure after the appearance.</p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="534" referrerPolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Eiz_b308t4A" title="Magandang Buhay: Pangilinan Family on their budget" width="949"></iframe></div><p>Melai also opened up about on-air mishaps, like the time she mispronounced “Mindoro” on live TV, fighting not to laugh mid-broadcast. In 2019, Melai achieved a full-circle moment by joining the Pamilya ni Kuya, feeling honored to now be on the other side and hosting the reality show that changed her life</p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="534" referrerPolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ii1IcrxR49I" title="PBB Gen 11 | Melai as House Challenger Therese sa uber acting! | The Reunion Special" width="949"></iframe></div><p>Fast forward to 2024, and Melai’s career is on fire. Alongside numerous endorsements, she recently won Best Actress at the 2023 Asia Artist Awards and now hosts her own Bisaya talk show, “Kuan on One.” The show, crafted for her by Star Magic nd ABS-CBN TV Production Head Laurenti Dyogi, has racked up almost 14 million views, showcasing the deep connection Melai has with her audience. “<em>Ako talaga, thank you Lord lang wala na akong ibang sasabihin.”</em></p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="534" referrerPolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6ZpStgdGwvs" title="Kim Chiu: “Tagsa-tagsa lang…” | Melai Cantiveros | KUAN ON ONE Full Episode 1 (with subtitles)" width="949"></iframe></div><p>As for her dream guests on “Kuan on One”? Manny Pacquiao, Ellen Adarna, SB19’s Felip, and <strong><u>“<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/pbbgen112024" target="_blank"><em>PBB Gen 11</em></a>”</u></strong>’s Kai, Rain, and Kollete.</p><p>Melai also took on a series of hosting challenges during the interview, hilariously tackling sports commentating, corporate event hosting, and even an open mic night at a comedy bar—nailing each with her trademark authenticity. Her unfiltered approach is part of her charm, as is her self-styled wardrobe, which she says reflects her mood and personality.</p><p>While hosting keeps her busy, Melai isn’t ruling out acting. “<em>Walang problema Ate B kung babalik ako sa acting, kung nasaan ang blessing, ‘di ba?”</em> she said also sharing her dream of one day doing a movie with her ultimate crush Jericho Rosales.</p><p>As her family steps into the limelight, Melai is teaching her children valuable life lessons. She wants them to be thankful to their fans and responsible with their own money, grounding them in gratitude and humility.</p><p>Bianca wrapped up by asking about her “B side”—the part of her that fans rarely see. For Melai, it’s her quiet moments, especially at home or when she’s driving.</p>

Melai Cantiveros shares her journey from PBB Big Winner to beloved host and actress, showcasing her humor, heart, and humility.