Lea Salonga embraces single life, shares powerful advice on love and self-worth
Broadway superstar Lea Salonga is in no hurry to enter another romantic relationship following her separation from former husband Nic Chien, choosing instead to focus on personal happiness, independence, and self-love.
In a candid interview with veteran broadcaster Rico Hizon on Beyond the Exchange, the internationally acclaimed singer and actress opened up about her outlook on romance and whether she sees herself falling in love again after the end of her marriage.
When asked if she was ready to welcome a new relationship, Salonga made it clear that finding another partner is not among her current priorities.
“Nah. It's not something I'm actively building a life towards,” she responded.
Rather than making romance the center of her future plans, the Tony Award-winning performer believes that individuals, particularly young people, should first establish a fulfilling life on their own.
She emphasized the importance of developing independence, appreciating one's worth, and finding happiness without depending on another person to provide it.
“Build your life as if you are not getting married, where you prioritize yourself, where you love yourself, where you fall in love with yourself, and create a beautiful life,” Salonga advised.
For the celebrated Filipina artist, a romantic relationship should complement an already meaningful existence rather than become the foundation of someone's happiness.
“And if you meet somebody who makes your life even better, then that is when you can consider,” she added.
Her reflections offered a refreshing perspective on relationships, particularly in a society where marriage and finding a lifelong partner are often viewed as important personal milestones.
Salonga's message also highlighted the value of emotional independence and the freedom to pursue individual dreams without feeling pressured to enter a relationship.
As she navigates a new chapter in her personal life, the acclaimed performer appears comfortable embracing the possibilities ahead without setting romantic expectations.
For Salonga, love remains something worth welcoming, but not something that needs to be pursued at the expense of personal fulfillment.
Her advice serves as a reminder that building a beautiful life begins with learning to love and value oneself—and that finding a partner, should it happen, can simply make that life even more meaningful.