Posted by ReyFort Media
At 81, Boots Anson-Roa Rodrigo shows that it’s never too late to follow your passion. Her story reminds us that age is just a number and dreams never fade if you keep them in your heart.
During her 81st birthday celebration at Club Filipino in Greenhills, San Juan, last Jan. 30, Boots took to the dance floor with her family and friends to “(I Had) The Time of My Life,” which drew cheers.
“I love dancing. I am blessed with so many things. I hope to dance in ‘ASAP’ with Charo Santos and Helen Gamboa,” said Boots as she laughed during an interview when asked about the things she still wants to do at this point.
Boots continues to embrace new challenges and opportunities; she stars alongside Charo Santos and Barbie Forteza in the upcoming drama film “Until She Remembers,” directed by Brillante Mendoza, set to premiere on Feb. 25.
Asked about the gratitude at her age, Boots said, “One, that I woke up this morning. Many people did not, especially many people my age. I have a terrible schedule, but God gave me a surge of adrenaline.”
Boots expressed deep gratitude for her enduring career in showbiz. Her advice to young dreamers: “Showbiz is a blessing—a place of growth, learning, and incredible challenges. It’s not just glitz and glamour; it demands hard work, discipline, and heart. If you feel called to it, pursue your dream passionately, but always keep your eyes and mind open to the lessons along the way.”
Admired for her kindness and grace, Boots has always chosen empathy and understanding. “Wala naman akong tinarayan sa showbiz, but there are a lot of times I get angry. But I never let my anger affect me. Hindi ako nagpatalo. (I’ve never had conflicts with anyone in showbiz, though I’ve often felt angry. However, I never let my anger control or affect me.)”
On her birthday, Boots launched her book, “Grateful,” dedicating its proceeds to MOWELFUND (Movie Workers Welfare Foundation, Inc.), where she leads with a spirit of generosity and service.
Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) Board Member Nestor Cuartero, co-editor of “Grateful,” described the book.
“In a way, it’s a tell-all book. She spoke of the stages of her life. It’s beautiful. She’s very open. There’s a part in the book that says things you didn’t know about Boots, where she defies her public image,” Nestor said. (R. Requintina/mb.com.ph)
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