Fresh-faced VIVA artist Jacqy Raj set to launch her acting career via advocacy series ‘WPS’
Jacqy Raj, a fresh face in the Philippine entertainment scene, is ready to make her mark. With the looks and moves of a beauty queen, this Viva artist is set to launch her acting career in the upcoming advocacy-action series, “WPS (West Philippine Sea).” We caught up with Jacqy at the series’ shoot, where she shared her journey into showbiz, her aspirations, and her thoughts on the industry.

From Application Frenzy to Viva Artist
Jacqy’s entry into showbiz was quite unexpected. “Nakakatuwa po because I went on an application frenzy. I wanted to go into hosting. I really wanted to host my own show. And so I saw a post. I think it was Independent Creatives. I saw the faces ng mga artista,” she shared. Encouraged by a friend, she applied and eventually caught the eye of Jojo Veloso, who saw her potential and introduced her to Viva.

And just like that, Jacqy Raj was born. She laughingly explained the origin of her screen name: “Raj is a shorter term for my full last name, which is Gulrajani, which sounds like an ingredient.”

Beauty Queen Aspirations
At 25 years old and standing tall at 5’5″, Jacqy has her sights set on joining a beauty pageant in the future. “Oh my gosh, Catriona [Gray]. She’s like the best queen I’ve ever had. Whatever you do with that girl, she’s up there,” Jacqy gushed, revealing her admiration for the former Miss Universe. Although she also loves Pia Wurtzbach’s humility, she feels a stronger connection with Catriona Gray’s journey.

From Corporate Training to Acting Debut
Before venturing into the entertainment world, Jacqy had a successful career in the corporate world. “I worked with a lot of managers, and we teach them about company management, and the action styles. So it’s a very serious part of my life. And here we are, kind of pursuing our passion,” she shared. This background in leadership and development training may seem worlds apart from acting, but Jacqy believes it has equipped her with valuable skills that will help her navigate the industry.

Ready to Take on the Challenges
Jacqy is aware of the challenges that come with being in the limelight. When asked about the issue of sexual harassment in showbiz, she confidently stated, “I think I’m coming in prepared, just like in anything that I’ve done before. I know the good and the bad, but in terms of preparation, I know how I can protect myself more. Like when I was, a few years back, I was easily manipulated. But I’m coming prepared.”
She also has a healthy perspective on dealing with bashers: “People are entitled to their own opinions, if you’re ready for whatever good and bad, and you know who you are, then you should be okay.”

“WPS”: A Launching Pad
“WPS (West Philippine Sea)” marks Jacqy’s first major acting project. “Yes, this is going to be my launching project. And I’m really grateful. So apparently, I’ll be playing the role of Sheila. I was just briefed earlier today. So, I’m really excited about it. I don’t think I can share a lot about the story. But, I’m excited to play the role of Sheila.”

Excited to delve into her role, Jacqy sees this as an opportunity to rediscover her passion for acting, which was first ignited in college theater. “In terms of meeting people, discovering a lot about myself, learning more about acting. My passion for acting started in theater in college. So, this is a good chance for me to rediscover that part of me.”

Catch Jacqy in “WPS”
“WPS (West Philippine Sea)” is an advocacy-action series topbilled by AJ Raval and Aljur Abrenica. The series also stars Mossimo Scofield, Ali Forbes, Jerica Madrigal, Lala Vinzon, Roi Vinzon, Jeric Raval, Daiana Menezes, Rannie Raymundo, and Lance Raymundo. Directed by Karlo Montero, the series commenced taping on October 1st. More details will be announced soon.