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Gee Canlas is embracing what she calls her "rebirth" in a very public way.

Months after opening up about the end of her relationship with actor Archie Alemania, the actress-host is channeling her healing journey into a new challenge as one of the Top 20 finalists in the health and fitness competition called Superbod Era 2026.

What started as a way to cope with emotional pain has evolved into a celebration of strength, confidence, and self-love.

"I've never felt better," Gee told GMANetwork.com and other entertainment media during the Century Tuna Superbods VIP Night yesterday, August 6.

"It really feels like, when I posted on my birthday, that this is gonna be my rebirth day. Rebirth talaga."

The post she referred to marked a turning point in her life following her highly publicized split with Alemania. Instead of dwelling on the heartbreak, Gee focused on rebuilding herself—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

"You know what? Hindi ko talaga inisip mag-try at all. Actually, my best friend si Abby Asisto, she was the one who convinced me to join.

"But I just really went to the gym, started working out because I needed an outlet. I didn't want to stay negative and angry, and I wanted to be productive. So, that's what I did."

After dedicating herself to fitness for 10 months, everything seemed to fall into place.

"And then, 10 months later, nung nagkaroon ng competition, nag-align kasi... Hindi ko siya plinano in the conscious sense, pero nung nag-audition ako, shock psycho, parang hindi pilit. Ano siya eh? Aligned."

Making it into the competition's Top 20 in the female category came as an unexpected blessing.

"Actually, alam namin, 15. Top 15 lang. Sinurprise kami na top 20."

Gee recalled silently counting down as the finalists were announced.

"So, last akong tinawag... Sabi ko, Lord, okay lang. At least, renewed. Nung tinawag yung pangalan ko, yun yung makikita niyo sa social media, yung talagang fist pump ako na gano'n. Nawala yung voice. Kasi talagang blessing siya. I'm so grateful."

Related gallery: Gee Canlas opens up about being a single parent on her 'REBIRTHday'

Beyond the competition itself, Gee said the experience has given her a newfound confidence at 42.

"It opened a new level of confidence for me... sabi ko, na kaya ko pala."

"At 42, I mean, when I'm 80, I'm gonna look back... I didn't know na kaya ko palang buhatin yung sarili ko ng gano'n."

For the House of Lies actress, the biggest victory isn't determined by rankings.

"Kasi ka, this competition, manalo, matalo, we already won."

Throughout her healing journey, Gee said her faith has been her greatest source of strength.

"I get my strength from God. I really do. And my son."

After sharing an emotional video online, she said many people reached out asking how she found the courage to be vulnerable.

"For me, na-achieve ko na eh. Kasi, yun talaga yung gusto ko. I really want to empower people."

Her message to women recovering from painful relationships is simple.

"Love yourself. To the fullest."

"When you love yourself, not selfishly, but love yourself enough so you can give back to the people who are important to you, hindi ka makakamali. At saka, hindi ka mauubos. Mahalin mo yung sarili mo."

As she continues her journey in Superbods, Gee remains focused on enjoying every moment rather than chasing the title.

"Everyone's trying their best. Everyone is in their A-game."

"Ako lalo na ako, I also have a competitive side. But, at the same time, I don't want yung drive ko, yung confidence ko to be rooted sa winning."

"Para yun nga, like I said, manalo, matalo, I already won."

For Gee, the competition has become more than a fitness challenge—it is proof that healing is possible, and that sometimes a broken chapter can become the beginning of a true rebirth.