We are often told that we must choose a single lane and stay in it.
We are told to be the “scholar,” the “athlete,” or the “artist.” But every once in a while, a pioneer emerges who refuses to be boxed in—someone who navigates the rigorous, analytical world of science with the same grace they use to walk a high-fashion runway.
Princess Maria Johns is that pioneer. Gracing the cover of Pioneer News, Princess represents a new generation of Filipina youth: intellectually formidable, socially responsible, and artistically gifted. From the intensive classrooms of De La Salle Lipa to the global screens of Netflix in The Destruction of Lissy and the popular GMA 7 series My Father’s Wife, her journey is a testament to what happens when preparation meets divine timing.
The Foundation: Academic Excellence and Servant Leadership
To understand the poise Princess displays on the runway, one must first look at the weight she carries in her academic life. As a Grade 7 student at De La Salle Lipa, Princess deals with a curriculum designed for the nation’s brightest minds.
“I balance my school life with my work by making time for both,” Princess shares. “When I’m at school, I leave my acting to the side, and when I’m working, I leave my school to the side. It’s about giving 100% to the person I need to be in that moment.”
The Pioneer Lesson: True balance isn’t about doing everything at the same time; it’s about “compartmentalization.” By being fully present in the classroom, she honors her education. By being fully present on set, she honors her craft.
The Spotlight: From Workshops to Netflix
The glimmer of the spotlight didn’t come by accident. It began in 2023, a pivotal year when her mother enrolled her in an acting workshop. What started as a way to build skills quickly transformed into a burgeoning career.
Princess’s face has become a familiar one to many. Her appearance in the GMA 7 series My Father’s Wife showcased her ability to handle the fast-paced world of television, but it was her role in The Destruction of Lissy—now available on Netflix—that catapulted her into the realm of international exposure.
“I was actually surprised,” she recalls with a humble smile. “While I was filming that, I didn’t even know the series was going to be a part of Netflix. It’s a surreal feeling to realize that your work is being seen by people all over the world.”
Working on projects like Pulang Laso and Eroplanong Papel served as her “industrial training.” These sets weren’t just jobs; they were classrooms. She learned the technicalities of the camera, the importance of lighting, and, most importantly, the value of professionalism.
The Runway and the Crown: Building Confidence
Before she was a Netflix actress, Princess was honing her “presence” on the pageant stage. With titles like Ms. CAS Ambassador Queen and Ms. ECO 3rd Princess, she mastered the art of “the walk.” But for Princess, pageantry was never just about beauty—it was about building the “poise” required for public speaking and leadership.
That confidence is what allows her to stand tall among industry icons. Having worked with global stars like SB19 and Apl.de.Ap, Princess has seen the peak of the industry. Her favorite part of the job? The community.
“My favorite thing while being on set is meeting new people and making new friends,” she says. This extroverted warmth is what makes her a favorite among brands and directors alike. She isn’t just a “talent”; she is a collaborator.
Pioneer Lessons: Wisdom for the Masses
Princess’s journey offers a roadmap for any young person with “small dreams.” In our interview, she highlighted several core philosophies that have guided her ascent:
The Challenge of the “Other”
In the film Mga Munting Tala, Princess had to play a role that was vastly different from her real-world persona. She played a character who was “mean” and had a boyfriend—a far cry from the disciplined student her friends know.
The Lesson: Growth happens in the “uncomfortable.” Don’t be afraid to play a role or take a task that is the opposite of who you are; it’s the fastest way to discover your range.
The Support System
Despite her fame, Princess remains a beloved figure among her peers. “My classmates know about my career. They are really supportive, and whenever I have a movie, they are always one of the first to watch it.”
The Lesson: Never outgrow your roots. The people who knew you before the billboards are the ones who will keep you grounded when the lights get too bright.
The Virtue of Patience
In a world of “viral” fame, Princess advocates for a slower, more intentional path.
“I learned that you should never rush things. Because when the time is right, God has something set for you.”
A Vision for the Future
As Princess Maria Johns looks toward the next five years, she sees a horizon without limits. Will she be a scientist? A full-time actress? A fashion mogul? Her answer suggests she might just be all three.
She wants to be a vessel for lessons. “I hope that I can teach young kids and other adults valuable lessons through the movies I’m in,” she says.
Her goal isn’t just to be “famous,” but to be “impactful.” She uses her platform to change how she sees herself, evolving with every role and every grade level into the woman she is meant to become.
Final Thoughts: A Name to Remember
When you look at the cover of Pioneer News, you see more than a “Runway Model.” You see a young woman who has successfully bridged the gap between the logic of science and the emotion of art.
Princess Maria Johns wants to leave the world with one final thought:
“I want people to remember my name as the kid who started off with small dreams about being an actor and then pursued it. I want people to think, ‘You can always achieve anything you want to be in life.’”
As she continues her studies at De La Salle Lipa and prepares for her next international project, one thing is certain: Princess Maria Johns is no longer just dreaming. She is leading the way.
Pioneer Takeaways: The “Princess” Manifesto
- Embrace Professionalism: It doesn’t matter how young you are; if you act like a professional, the world will treat you like one.
- Stay Grounded in Faith: Trust the timing of your life. What is meant for you will not pass you by.
- Use Your Platform: Use your voice to inspire others.
Written by: Antonio Ma-at
