Anchored on an insightful and honest exchange, Alexa Ilacad opened up about self-expression, self-awareness, and the importance of asking for help — something that, for a long time, she admits she struggled with.

“Why am I putting myself through all of this alone? When I can easily ask for help from my mom, family, whoever. So now, I have to assess, it’s not giving anymore, I think I need to ask for help. I can’t do it all by myself,” Alexa shared.

It’s a statement that hits home for many women who often feel the need to carry everything on their shoulders. Alexa admits it took her a while to realize that strength doesn’t always mean doing it alone.

“Why do we have to carry all the burden by myself? There are people who are offering their support to me. I think sometimes we tend to — I don’t know if it’s a Pinoy thing — but we tend to take on everything, especially a woman’s mental load,” she stated.

“It’s called the curse of the capable,” shared to DAILY TRIBUNE.

The “curse of the capable” refers to when someone is so good at handling things — work, emotions, responsibilities, or even other people’s problems — that everyone assumes they can handle everything all the time.

Because of that, they often end up: taking on too much, rarely asking for help, burning out quietly, and feeling guilty when they can’t do it all.

It’s called a curse because while being capable is a strength, it can also become a burden — people stop checking in on you because “you’ve got this,” even when you don’t.

As the conversation went deeper, Alexa also got candid about losing friendships and learning to rebuild her own circle of support.

“I feel like I’m only learning this now because I’ve gone through so many friendship breakups, I’ve lost so many people in my life, people I thought would be with me forever. So now, I guess I learned to stop expecting things from other people,” she reflected.

“Because again, I can handle myself. And I feel like I’ve gone through so many things already. What’s another one? So yeah, I just learned to stop expecting things from people.”

Then she added, “Because I used to think, I would go across the ocean for you. Why won’t you do the same? Why won’t you even jump over a puddle for me? And then I realized, people don’t love the way I do. People don’t have the same heart as I do. So you can’t expect them to give up the same energy. And if I see that they aren’t, it’s time to leave. Come have my things and go.”

Growing up in front of the camera as a former child actress, Alexa admitted that being constantly compared to others took a toll on her confidence.

“Especially growing up in front of the camera as a former child actress, I was very conscious about my looks,” Alexa said. “People tend to compare and pit you against your peers and sometimes you can’t help but do the same. It’s an ongoing battle but time gives you strength and wisdom to handle things better.”

Bianca then brought up how crucial it is to have something — or someone — that helps you feel supported, whether it’s a solid core group or even little things that make life easier, like clothes that blend comfort and confidence.

“With our hectic schedule, we have to move fast, so it does help when you have to wear something that’s easy to put on. Now, if this clothing also makes you feel good and not just look good, then that’s a huge difference — and I have experienced this with UNIQLO Bra Top,” Alexa said.

This season, the brand champions body positivity and everyday versatility, delivering comfort and all-day confidence. It’s not just a wardrobe staple — it’s a reminder that support, in every form, matters.

The Ribbed Cropped Bra Top is made from contouring ribbed fabric that flatters every body type while offering 360° chest support for a secure, comfy fit. Another cozy yet chic option is the Washable Knit Bra Top — Bianca’s pick for the event — which is machine-washable and designed to hide bra straps, so it looks great solo or layered.

For those who prefer a cooling feel, it also offers AIRism Bra Tops — from sleeveless to camisole styles — designed to keep you fresh all day.