Ella Cruz shares what it’s like working in showbiz with her 'mamager'

In a sit-down interview with Aiko Melendez, actress and dancer Ella Cruz opened up about her close working relationship with her mom, who is also happens to be her manager, or 'mamager.' 

Ella, 29, shared that ever since she began as a child actress, her mom has been her manager, helping her make important decisions — from choosing projects to deciding which management company to join. According to her, they eventually found a home with Viva Entertainment, where she was given opportunities not just to act, but also to dance and sing.

When asked about their dynamics at work and in real life, the Goin’ Bulilit alum said that when she was younger, she simply followed her mom’s guidance. “I just follow her. Alam ko, lahat ng decisions niya, ayun iyong best for me.”

She also admitted that they had misunderstandings over the years, especially during tapings. Ella recalled that they would  argue about her first boyfriend because her mom was worried Ella, being in showbiz, might get entangled in controversy. 

"Kapag may boyfriend ka, wala kang project, or kapag uunahin mo iyong boyfriend mo, mabubuntis ka.” Ella then jokingly pointed out that despite those fears, she still hasn’t gotten pregnant.

Just like any mother and daughter, Ella and her mom have had their conflicts but she remains grateful to her mom. “I'm happy na simula noong bata po, natutukan ako ni Mama na lumaki.” She also credited her mom for teaching her to stay humble and build good relationships with the people she works with.

Ella also shared a funny memory from her younger years. Since she’s bad at remembering names, she would often ask her mom for help during tapings whenever someone was looking for her. Ironically, it was her mom who knew everyone on set while she kept forgetting names. She even teased her, “Ikaw yata iyong gustong maging artista.” 

For Ella, having her mom by her side throughout her career has always been a big help. She also recalled how they would travel from Bulacan and back after every taping. “Umuwi kami sa Bulacan tapos babalik ng taping from Bulacan. Then, siya nagda-drive.”

On top of being her manager, her mom also acted as her PA (personal assistant) because she never had to hire one. Ella emphasized how much she appreciates that her mom did all of that for almost 20 years.