From being a radio DJ to Pinoy Big Brother housemate to events host and vlogger, Karen Bordador’s career in showbiz has been an unexpected, colorful affair. The talented artist has not shied away from talking about her experience being incarcerated for five years and eventually becoming an advocate for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) and for the improvement of the justice system in the country.
In a Facebook post last August 10, Karen shared her latest life update where she revealed some of the most difficult challenges in her career since getting out of prison after being acquitted in 2021.
She wrote, “Many things in my mind lately, but generally I’m fine. I’d just like to share some interesting stories. When I was acquitted… joined PBB then started working again… there were many BIG companies that hired me then took me out of projects after realizing I was imprisoned. There were times I’d be taken out the day before big events… it was devastating. Considering I lost 5 years of my life to a made-up case then eventually getting acquitted… I thought I had proven myself already…. but still companies would judge me. I had many silent battles after gaining my freedom and never did I complain about it publicly. There was even a time I did a commercial already only to be told that it won’t air anymore.”
READ: Karen Bordador celebrates 4 years of being a free woman: ‘I no longer live in doubt or worry’
The actress and prison reform advocate also shared how she silently accepted all the substandard treatment she received because of her unfortunate history.
“Dami ko rin heartbreaks at work. Many instances, it made me feel how my imprisonment still haunts me… with the perception of decision makers that didn’t know me personally. But regardless as clients, they have the right to choose who they want to represent them… so I just quietly accepted it and moved forward… Hurt… yes.. but always rooted in the fuel of just working harder. If you’re wondering how I’d learn about WHY they took me out… the event organizers and agencies would secretly tell me and share how devastated they were too. They remain my friends and we continue to work on other projects,” she wrote.
Karen added that she worked hard to prove herself in the industry and is now slowly reaping the benefits of toughing it out despite her previous experiences.
“Anywayyyyyy I just wanted to share that hard work, building reputation, and consistently giving my best in hosting every stage, set and project I do… LATELY I have been hired by theeee BIG conglomerates that used to reject me. Most likely their bosses changed or maybe they just saw the real me. Regardless, these are my silent wins. I may look extremely busy, but I did get many pains getting back in the industry. Thank you to the many local and international companies that kept having me and rooted for me. While those that rejected me… I’m so glad they’re now getting me over and over again today.”
READ: Karen Bordador proud to have her life story featured on MMK: ‘It feels amazingly great!’
Before ending her post, Karen shared a message of encouragement to her followers that they should keep working hard to pursue their goals.
“Soooo if life is hard for you now, feeling judged, rejected and possibly with little opportunities due to whatever reason…. KEEP WORKING ON YOUR CRAFT! The right people will notice you and eventually give you the break you need. Keep BUILDING yourself. Know who you are and what you can offer then elevate. Eventually those that rejected you won’t even be able to ignore you…
"Your current situation is just the simmering you need till you’re ready to be served to the world.
"Also KEEP YOUR STRUGGLES against others silent. One day these bridges may start connecting again… and you can confidently say… you were at your best even though you felt like they gave you the worst.
"Hope you learned something. Teehee! Love ya’ll!”