Jodi Sta. Maria: From silent superstar to mental health advocate

Jodi Sta. Maria, often hailed as the Philippines’ “Silent Superstar,” has carved a remarkable path in the entertainment industry. Known for her versatility across comedy, horror and drama, Jodi has proven her mettle in independent films, blockbusters and television.

Her talent has garnered her nominations for prestigious awards like the FAMAS and Gawad Urian, and international recognition, including a nomination for “Best Performance by an Actress” at the 44th International Emmy Awards for her iconic role as Amor Powers in Pangako sa ‘Yo. More recently, she added to her accolades with wins for Best Drama Actress at the Golden Laurel Batangas Province Media Awards and Best Actress in a Leading Role at the Asian Academy Creative Awards.

But Jodi’s journey extends beyond the bright lights of showbiz. Taking a break from her acting career to prioritize her education, she earned a B.S. in Psychology from Southville International School and Colleges in 2021. This pursuit of knowledge has ignited a new passion within her: mental health advocacy.

Jodi’s commitment to mental well-being is evident in her recent research on the Five Needle Protocol (5NP) or NADA, a non-invasive ear acupuncture technique known for its stress and anxiety management benefits. She recently presented her research paper, “The Impact of the NADA Protocol (Ear Acudetox) on the Anxiety Level of People Working in Television Production,” at the Consortium of the South International Faculty Research Conference.

Sharing her excitement on Instagram, Jodi described the experience as both nerve-wracking and fulfilling.

She expressed her surprise at reaching this milestone and emphasized the personal significance of her study. The opportunity to learn from and connect with other presenters further enriched the experience.

Jodi’s dedication to mental health extends beyond research. She is eager to explore more ways to support well-being in the workplace, particularly within the demanding environment of television production.

Her work with the NADA protocol reflects a proactive approach to addressing mental health challenges and a genuine desire to make a difference.

Jodi Sta. Maria’s story is one of continuous growth and evolution. From her captivating performances on screen to her dedication to mental health research and advocacy, she embodies the qualities of a true role model.

Her journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that success can be achieved both in the spotlight and in the pursuit of making a positive impact on the world.