Actress Nova Villa receives Papal award

MANILA – Actress Nova Villa (Novelita Gallegos in real life) has been recognized by the Vatican for dedicating all her works to God.

She received the Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice, the highest award given by the Pope to lay people, in a ceremony held at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish, Tandang Sora, Quezon City on Thursday headed by Novaliches Bishop Roberto Gaa.

“My ambition to become an actress is because of a mission from God. All the things I’m doing in showbiz is with a mission,” she said in an interview over church-run Radio Veritas on Friday.

The actress admitted that she was surprised with the recognition from Pope Francis, adding that she offers wholeheartedly all her work to God.

“I offer wholeheartedly everything, I’m doing for God; I’m happy to do even if it’s hard,” said Villa, who is in the industry for over five decades. “I think, I am just an instrument of God’s grace to people; by being nice to people, giving smile at them, you’re giving them hope”.

It was in June 2019 when Novaliches Bishop Emeritus Antonio Tobias nominated Villa and six others from the diocese for the papal award.

On the other hand, Gaa urged the community to help each other since the award given to the actress is for everyone serving the parish.

“The papal award is a symbol of service to the church with a huge responsibility. They are shining examples of how a Christian should live,” Gaa added.

Also present during the awarding ceremony were Tobias, Fr. Niño Etulle, parish priest of the San Lorenzo, and other priests from San Isidro Vicariate.