Ruffa Gutierrez has been many things in her decades in the limelight — beauty queen, actress, television host, mother. But if she were to describe herself in gem form, she wouldn’t hesitate.
“I’m definitely gonna be a diamond,” Ruffa said with a smile during the launch of her new endorsement with Davao-based brand Magical Gems by Isabel and Alexandria. “Diamonds are forever. Flawless, unique. It inspires me to be the best version of myself because it’s the way that it makes you feel.”
It’s a fitting metaphor for a woman who’s weathered heartbreak, lived under the glare of the public eye and yet continues to shine.
For Magical Gems CEO Harry Lopez Chuz, the partnership was more than strategic — Ruffa was “a blessing, a gift from heaven.”
Lopez Chua recalled their first meeting at the Manila Peninsula. “May kaba ako noon kasi first time ko maka-meet ng celebrity,” he admitted. “But Ruffa? Wala kang ka-negative-negativity. Beauty inside and out talaga — like a true magical gem.”
Harry likens Ruffa to a ruby, “because of her vibrant energy,” but added that she also embodies the strength and value of a diamond: “The most stable, the hardest and forever.”
Ruffa shared her gratitude for finally sealing the partnership with the homegrown brand known for its intricate designs and meaningful stones. “I’m happy to be representing a brand that takes care of their people,” Ruffa said. “Each gemstone piece is unique. Like what Sir Harry [Lopez] said — one of a kind.”
When asked how it feels to be called “a gift from heaven,” she answered thoughtfully, “I think it’s the way I make people feel. Hindi ‘yung itsura mo, pero ‘yung pakikitungo mo sa tao. Totoo kasi ako.”
This authenticity extends to her views on love and relationships. “Ang happiness, you have to be whole as a person. Love life? Bonus lang ‘yon. It doesn’t define who you are.” Though she once thought she’d never marry again after her separation from Turkish businessman Yilmaz Bektas, Ruffa now has a more open perspective. “Never say never. I’m not closing my doors. But if ever I do again, sana siya na talaga hanggang huling hininga ko. If not, jowa-jowa na lang!”
And if that future partner is reading this, take notes.
“Kung ako naging lalaki, I’d be the most romantic! Dapat ibalik ang harana. Umaakyat ng bahay, nagbibigay ng prutas or kahit macaroons. Huwag ‘yung puro DM at tagpo sa kanto!”
Asked what kind of engagement ring she’d design, Ruffa didn’t miss a beat. “Pink diamond in a heart shape! ‘Yung naiwan ko dati sa Istanbul was round, 13 carats,” she shared.
She also opened up about the idea of designing jewelry. “That was the business Yilmaz wanted to give to me and the kids. Not for me, but for them. So maybe we’ll talk about it.”
Even with the glamour of showbiz and brand deals, Ruffa’s proudest role is being a mom. She’s raised Lorin and Venice as a single parent, and while she’s grateful for support from her family, she’s been her daughters’ rock.
“Hindi pa ako umabot sa point na kailangan magbenta ng alahas. I’m very blessed,” she said. “I’ve made good investments, and kahit may slow months in showbiz, I’ve survived — thanks to God and my family.”
She revealed that her ex-husband Yilmaz Bektas provides an allowance for their daughters’ education, though she remains the primary provider. “Unless bumalik ako sa Istanbul at inalagaan na ako ni Yilmaz — but I don’t think that’s going to happen,” she quipped.
Ruffa also recalled a powerful moment after her separation. “I never got the jewelry back from the safe, but my mom told me then, ‘The most important thing is your freedom. You’re young, you can rebuild.’ And rebuild is what I did.”
As someone who has experienced both privilege and pain, Ruffa had a heartfelt message for fellow moms—especially single parents or those in difficult marriages. “It takes courage, prayers, and support from friends,” she said. “As long as you have God and the strength to take that first step, you can rebuild and renew your life — at any age.”
