Filipino American singer-songwriter and TikTok star, Bella Poarch, has revealed her excitement about returning to the Philippines after a prolonged absence. During a guest appearance on the Press ESC podcast, Poarch expressed her eagerness to reconnect with her roots and visit her homeland.
Appearing on the podcast, hosted by prominent figures Valkyrae and Alythuh, Poarch shared insights into her life journey. Known for her rise to fame through social media and music, Poarch opened up about her earlier life experiences, including her childhood in the Philippines and the challenges she faced growing up.
In the episode titled “Being Filipino with Bella Poarch,” the audience learned about Poarch’s formative years in the Philippines. Raised in a farming environment, she recounted her experience planting more than 30 mango trees. These trees, now fully grown, serve as a cherished memory of her early life. “My brother was sending me photos, and it’s insane to see them fully grown. I loved it. It was a fun experience for me, honestly. I’m actually grateful because I got to learn agriculture,” Poarch shared, reflecting on her agricultural upbringing.
At the age of 17, Poarch made the decision to join the US Navy. Seeking to escape an abusive environment, she viewed the military as a viable path to a new life. “I just didn’t want to be there forever. And so, the military was one way out,” she explained. Poarch’s commitment to the Navy, coupled with global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, limited her ability to return to the Philippines. Her planned visit in 2020 was thwarted when her flight was canceled due to travel restrictions.
Despite these setbacks, Poarch remains hopeful about her upcoming visit. Her plans align with the release of her debut album and an anticipated tour. Her connection to the Philippines endures, bolstered by her fluency in the Tagalog language, which she attributes to her schooling. She notes that her education helped maintain her language skills, despite restrictions from her parents regarding its use at home.
Bella Poarch’s story resonates with many of her fans who share similar backgrounds or have experienced comparable life challenges. Her candid discussion about her childhood, military service, and the obstacles she encountered adds a layer of authenticity to her public persona. As she prepares to embark on her trip to the Philippines, her enthusiasm is palpable, both in her words and her plans for the future.
