There was a secret hiding in Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol’s jewelry collection all along, and even she had no idea just how valuable it was. During a recent visit to Charo Cordial of Maddox Jewelry, the actress and beauty queen brought along a jewelry set given to her years ago by a special person during her time as a co-host on Wowowin. Her goal was simple: to finally find out if the gems were real and if the gift she had been keeping for years held any actual market value. Herlene declined to name the giver to avoid sparking new showbiz gossip, lightheartedly joking that she just wanted to know if the person genuinely cared for her back then or if she was merely a passing crush.
The appraisal brought a massive surprise. Charo revealed that the set was crafted from 14-karat gold, set with natural amethysts, and studded with natural diamonds. Depending on market valuation, the entire collection was estimated to be worth approximately ₱900,000. What started as a joke about selling the pieces because she was strapped for cash quickly turned into a change of heart. Realizing the true worth of her forgotten treasure, Herlene quipped that she would keep it hidden for now, thrilled to discover she actually owned a solid investment.
Beyond the high-value appraisal, Herlene took the opportunity to reflect on her humble beginnings, her transition into dramatic acting, and her successful run in national pageantry. She recalled how her iconic moniker “Hipon Girl” originated during her 2017 Binibining Angono stint. Instead of shying away from mean comments about her looks, she embraced the nickname and built it into her trademark persona. This self-deprecating humor caught the attention of television host Willie Revillame, who brought her onto Wowowin, where he became a mentor and father figure as her showbiz career took off.
Since her variety show break, Herlene has transformed into a legitimate leading lady in Philippine television. She proved her acting chops by headlining major GMA drama series, including her breakthrough lead role in Magandang Dilag and her action-drama stint in Black Rider. Alongside her acting career, she silenced critics by entering national pageantry, winning 1st Runner-Up at Binibining Pilipinas 2022 and later taking home the Miss Philippines Tourism 2023 crown at Miss Grand Philippines.
Herlene also spoke candidly about the harsh public judgment she faced after a viral pageant answer where critics labeled her unfavorably. She shared how unforgiving people can be when you make a single mistake, noting that one slip-up often overshadows all the good things a person has done. For Herlene, mistakes are part of learning, and she believes true intelligence is rooted in empathy, respect, and knowing how to relate to others.
Beneath her bubbly, comedic persona is a determined worker who balanced her studies alongside a demanding career in showbiz. Having successfully earned her college degree, she revealed her aspirations to pursue a Master’s degree in Business to prepare for future entrepreneurial ventures. As for her love life, Herlene admitted she has active suitors but is in no rush to settle down.
As for the mystery man who handed her a ₱900,000 jewelry set years ago? That secret remains locked away—just like her newly rediscovered investment.