Jodi Sta. Maria is taking on a new and unscripted role in the TV5–Viu culinary reality show “Kumusta,” where she steps away from her usual heavy drama characters to show a more natural and relatable side of herself.
The show follows a pop-up Filipino restaurant in Gangnam, Seoul, where Jodi, along with Francine Diaz, Janella Salvador, and Chef JP Anglo, manage operations while introducing Filipino cuisine to Korean diners.
In the series, she plays a hall manager responsible for guest relations, coordination, and multitasking across front-of-house and kitchen support duties.
Jodi admitted the experience was far more challenging than expected, especially as it involved real-time restaurant operations in a foreign setting and language.
Despite the difficulty, she said the project was refreshing and fulfilling, highlighting her willingness to take on new and unconventional roles beyond acting.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 26, 2026
