PEP: How did the issue affect you? How do you feel that the issue has been picked up by the foreign press?

BELA: "I was really shocked. That was mainly my first reaction. I didn't expect that it would be blown up like this.

"I was at taping when I first found out about it, so I didn't have time to entertain the remarks. It didn't sink in so much yet because I had work to do.

"But I'm happy that in 2 days all I've been getting are mostly positive comments."

PEP: You mentioned about finally letting go of your fears and inhibitions on your Twitter. What is your greatest fear? What is it that hold Bela Padilla from doing what she wants to do?

BELA: "I guess I've been quite safe with my decisions before. I have the tendency of thinking too far ahead.

"Probably because I'm afraid of disappointing the people who matter to me. That's my biggest fear.

"That's why I pattern my choices alongside that thought, that I shouldn't ever disappoint. And my age was holding me back. I felt too young to do certain things."

PEP: For your cover, whom did you ask permission from?

BELA: "I asked permission from my parents first. My dad's abroad right now but my mum who lives here in Manila with me really has the final say with everything. Not just FHM.

"She was there when they showed the costumes, and she was there during the shoot. It's really her who decides."

PEP: You seem to be a controversy-magnet, how does it feel to be one?

"That's not something a person wants hahaha. Because it keeps you on the edge of your toes. You have to be very careful because of the scrutiny.

"But that parts ok with me coz I know I have nothing to hide. Plus I'm at home all the time when I'm not at work. I'm staying out of trouble :)"

PEP: Are you okay with FHM's decision to change the cover?