Phylbert Angellie Ranollo, Tisay (Tee-säy) to her family and friends, was born on October 17, 1987 to her British father and Filipina mother, Mary Ann.Phylbert dreamt of becoming an actress and joined a hometown pageant that eventually introduced her to people who’d help her join the business. In 2001, she was launched as a member of Star Circle’s batch and debuted as Bea Alonzo.
In early 2003, Bea caused quite a stir among critics and teleserye buffs alike, receiving critical acclaim for her performance as awkward nerdy girl turned feisty law student Katrina Argos in ABS-CBN’s Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay. Her convincing portrayal of a 21-year old in spite of being only 15 at the time and her strong chemistry with on-screen partner, John Lloyd Cruz brought kilig surges to every household in the Philippines and abroad.
The overwhelming response of the “accidental teleserye couple” was unexpected. The two are now known as one of the country’s premiere loveteams, not only known for their sizzling chemistry but for their powerful acting prowess.
The media quickly took notice of her sheer talent. The Philippine Star’s columnist Ricky Lo was once quoted, “she acts with the intensity of a veteran even if she’s actually a relative greenhorn.” In Star Studio magazine’s October 2003 issue, Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay co-director Don Cuaresma exclaimed that Bea has “the masa appeal of Sharon Cuneta, the intensity of Maricel Soriano, and the acting range of Lorna Tolentino.”
People don’t really know what it is. Where she gets the spirit or the motivation for the gripping performances. Maybe it’s her obvious passion for acting, whatever it is she plays the role with such complexity, precision and depth. With her emotions mirroring in her eyes.
After Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay, she remains to be popular among teleserye fans in the Philippines and abroad with her follow-up dramas: It Might Be You and Ikaw Ang Lahat Sa Akin. She recently finished her fourth drama with John Lloyd Cruz, Maging Sino Ka Man.
Since her movie launch, My First Romance in 2002, Bea has top-billed six more films and has constantly earned movie critics’ approvals. She continues to prove her versatility with different projects: making movies, dramas, TV appearances, hostings and endorsements.
Bea Alonzo is not just another household name, the girl is an actress. One who delivers her performances with obvious beauty and surprising maturity.