Iwa Moto, real name Aileen Quimado Iwamoto, is a Filipina-Japanese actress, model, and influencer who made her mark in the Philippine entertainment industry in the early 2000s. Known for her bold screen presence, intense roles, and now her honest advocacy for mental health, Iwa has become a symbol of both fame and fearless personal growth.
Contents
📌 Quick Bio
- Full Name: Aileen Quimado Iwamoto
- Stage Name: Iwa Moto
- Date of Birth: August 29, 1988
- Age: 36 years old (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Las Piñas, Metro Manila, Philippines
- Nationality: Filipino-Japanese
- Profession: Actress, Model, Social Media Influencer
- Partner: Pampi Lacson
- Children: One daughter
- Known For: Valentina in Darna (GMA), StarStruck Season 3 Finalist
🌟 Early Life and Background
Iwa Moto was born in Las Piñas and reared in a mixed-race family; her mother is Filipina and her father is Japanese. Her distinctive features and individuality were influenced by her distinct heritage. Despite facing early challenges, Iwa developed a bold personality and strong determination, which would later become key elements in her rise to stardom.
🎤 StarStruck Breakthrough
In 2005, Iwa entered StarStruck Season 3, a reality-based talent search by GMA Network. Though she didn’t win the grand title, finishing as First Princess (First Runner-Up) opened countless doors. Her confidence, beauty, and fiery attitude made her an instant fan favorite.
🎬 Career in Showbiz
After her breakthrough, Iwa Moto became one of the most recognizable faces on GMA Network. She starred in a variety of drama and fantasy series, usually portraying strong, edgy, and even villainous characters.
Notable Roles:
- Valentina in Darna – Her most iconic role, where she played the snake-haired antagonist with power and style.
- Rita Acuesta in Kung Mahawi Man ang Ulap – A complex dramatic role that earned her critical praise.
- Donita Sagrado in Luna Mystika – Proving her versatility in fantasy-themed dramas.
- Love to Love, Sine Novela, Bubble Gang – She showed her comedic and romantic side in these series.
Her acting skills, combined with her glamorous magazine shoots (including FHM and Maxim), made her a full-fledged celebrity during the late 2000s.
✋ Stepping Away from Fame
Despite her success, Iwa made the bold decision to step away from the limelight. In 2012, she took a break from acting to focus on her mental health, family life, and personal healing.
In later interviews and social media posts, Iwa openly discussed her struggles with depression, anxiety, and emotional stress, offering a rare look into the personal challenges faced behind the camera. Her bravery in sharing her journey helped start important conversations around mental health in the Philippines—especially among women and public figures.
👨👩👧 Personal Life & Motherhood
Iwa Moto is in a long-term relationship with Pampi Lacson, the son of former senator Ping Lacson. They have a tranquil, family-focused life together and have a lovely daughter. Although they are not married, Iwa has often emphasized the love and stability their partnership brings.
Through her social media, she shares glimpses of her home life—simple joys, family bonding, and the real experiences of being a hands-on mother. This raw honesty has helped her grow a loyal digital following.
💻 Social Media and Online Influence
In recent years, Iwa has re-entered the public space—not through traditional media, but via social platforms like Instagram and TikTok. She now creates content that includes:
- Skincare and wellness tips
- Family and motherhood stories
- Mental health awareness
- Real-life experiences and reflections
She also participates in TikTok Shop, promoting products she genuinely uses, showing that her influence now comes from authenticity rather than celebrity status.
💬 A Voice for Mental Health Awareness
One of the most powerful aspects of Iwa Moto’s current persona is her mental health advocacy. She uses her platform to talk openly about emotional struggles, self-care, and healing. By being vulnerable, she empowers others—especially mothers, women, and former public personalities—to prioritize their well-being.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Iwa Moto is no longer just a star on screen—she’s a star in real life, navigating motherhood, healing, and social media with honesty and courage. Her story is a reminder that it’s okay to pause, to fall, to heal, and to come back stronger in your own way.
In a world obsessed with fame and perfection, Iwa Moto redefines success as self-love, stability, and truth. Whether you remember her from Darna or follow her parenting journey on Instagram, one thing’s for sure—Iwa continues to shine, beautifully and bravely.