Joy Sumilang, who claimed to be the daughter of former matinee idol Romeo Vazquez, was born in 1964. She was a rebellious teenager who left home at the age of 15, finding work as a sexy model/dancer at popular Manila girlie bars like Cafferino’s and Thunderdome. At the age of 21 she was discovered by reporter and eventual manager Roland Lerum in a gay bar in Quezon City. She appeared in her first bold movie, the aptly named Bold Star, in 1986. Joy was one of the most daring actresses of the 80’s era, appearing in many “Pene” scenes in which she engaged in actual sex on camera. Of course, what was shown in theaters was much tamer-
-than what was actually filmed and later released on DVD:
She starred in movies for 10 years, then left the business for good in 1996, traveling to Singapore, Dubai and the UK, and taking jobs as varied as cleaner, caregiver, nanny and food server in order to support her two children. In 2006 GMA Network aired a docudrama about her life entitled Magpakailanman: Sa Muling Pagbangon – The Joy Sumilang Story. The drama depicted Joy’s as “a bold star who has experienced every setback in life, which has taught her everything she needs to know to be strong, especially for her family.” Actress Tanya Garcia portrayed Joy. In 2024 Joy appeared on a “Timeless Beauty” episode of Family Feud Philippines, along with 80’s Pene actresses Amanda Amores and Myra Manibog. That same year, Julius Babao interviewed Joy for his YouTube channel. In the hour-long interview, Ang buhay ngayon ng 80’s Sexy Star Joy Sumilang, Joy discussed her past struggles, previous abusive relationships, and her commitment to her children.
Last updated: 3/2026
