Denise Laurel

Denise Maria Sanz Laurel (born September 30, 1987) is a Filipina actress and singer. She is best known for playing Nadja Ann Dela Merced on the ABS-CBN romance drama Precious Hearts Romances Presents: Midnight Phantom, Emerald Fortalejo in Precious Hearts Romances Presents: Kristine and as Wendy Garcia in Dahil Sa Pag-ibig. Laurel is a member of Arnold Vegafria's ALV Talent Circuit. --- Laurel is the granddaughter of former Vice President, the late Salvador Laurel and Celia Diaz, and the great-granddaughter of former Philippine President, the late Jose P. Laurel.  She is the youngest daughter of David Laurel.  She grew up in the atmosphere of famous theatrical personalities, so it was inevitable that she carved out a career in theater as well. Denise was about five years old when she landed her first stage role in the musical South Pacific. She finished elementary school in St. Paul's College in Pasig. Laurel was discovered by Star Magic's big boss Mr. M (Johnny Manahan) in a play of Repertory Philippines. Luckily, she was given a break to be part of "Ang TV 2", then she played Ina Raymundo's daughter in "Pangako Sa ‘Yo". She then made a name in Singapore when she was fortunate to be part of MTV Asia’s "Rouge" which was shown all over Asia. Among the many who auditioned, she stood out and got the role of a smart lead vocalist named Pat. At the age of 16, her experience in working with other nationalities has taught her things that helped her improve her craft. After a season in "Rouge," Denise decided to concentrate on her local showbiz career. --- At the peak of her career, Laurel mysteriously left the successful Primetime drama Kristine, stirring rumors that she was pregnant. The actress, however, kept mum on the issue. On September 4, 2011, she appeared on The Buzz and admitted that she gave birth to a baby boy. She declined to reveal the identity of the baby's father, saying only that he is Italian-American.