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Six roles that showcase Ashley Ortega’s acting prowess
Ashley Ortega continues to prove why she is among her generation's versatile and talented actresses.
With a career spanning over 10 years, the Sparkle star has played various roles in both television and film that showed she's got the range, dedication, and heart as an artist.
Here are six roles of Ashley that showcase her acting prowess.
1. Marriam in 'Legal Wives'
Ashley played the kontrabida role of Marriam Pabil-Delos Reyes in “Legal Wives" in 2021.
She received acclaim for her role where she portrayed a rebellious Muslim woman with emotional depth and authenticity. Her dedication to the role included learning the Maranao language and embracing aspects of Muslim culture.
Her portrayal of Marriam even earned ire from viewers, which she took as a compliment to her acting.
2. Jackie Sagrado in 'Widows’ Web'
In 2022, Ashley took on the role of Jackie Sagrado, one of the main protagonists of the Kapuso murder-mystery series “Widows’ Web.”
As the widow of Alexander Sagrado III (Christian Vasquez), Jackie's demeanor appeared to be calm and composed, but beneath the surface lies hidden emotions and secrets. She carefully chooses her words and allies, with her quietly strategic nature playing a key role in shaping the story.
Ashley brings depth to the character, making Jackie feel both relatable and mysterious.
3. Gemma Stone in 'As If It’s True'
Ashley’s portrayal of the Internet star Gemma Stone in the Cinemalaya 2023 film “As If It’s True” is her first lead role in the big screen.
In “As If It's True,” Ashley shines as Gemma, a social media influencer who fabricates a romance with a musician to revive her career.
She portrays Gemma’s transformation from being self-centered to dealing with the fallout of her choices. Her performance captures the inner conflict between ambition and authenticity, showcasing the character’s growth throughout the story.
Ashley’s remarkable acting in the film earned her her first international Best Actress award at the 2024 Harlem International Film Festival in New York.
4. Ponggay in 'Hearts On Ice'
Ashley unleashed her talent in figure skating when she starred as Ponggay in “Hearts On Ice” with Xian Lim in 2023.
Through Ponggay, the real-life figure skater realistically captured the physical and emotional challenges of her character, showcasing her resilience and passion for both the sport and acting.
5. Sister Manuela in 'Pulang Araw'
Playing the character of Sister Manuela in the family drama series “Pulang Araw” is perhaps the most critically acclaimed role of Ashley in television.
In the series, Ashley delivered a powerful performance as a nun who was forced to become a comfort woman during the Japanese occupation in the Philippines
Her portrayal as Sister Manuela is deeply moving, reflecting the trauma and resilience of women who endured sexual slavery during World War II. Her performance has earned her the Media Excellence in Television Acting (Female) award at the 2025 Laurus Nobilis Media Excellence Awards.
According to Ashley, Sister Manuela was "one of the most challenging roles I have ever done.”
6. Agent Tony in 'Lolong: Pangil ng Maynila'
Ashley currently stars as Agent Tony in “Lolong: Pangil ng Maynila” where she portrays a determined and action-ready police officer, marking a shift from her previous roles.
Clad in tactical gear and armed with a gun, her character is actively involved in intense action sequences, including shootouts and hand-to-hand combat. Her transition from figure skating and drama to action is proof of her versatility and commitment to challenging roles.
In an interview with "24 Oras," Ashley had said that she has been wanting to do action and expressed her joy for being part of the series.
—CDC, GMA Integrated News
