For the entertainment industry, it’s a dog-eat-dog world for most, and this does not exclude the modeling industry, especially those who are trying to also penetrate the TV and movie industry.
Farah Models is celebrating its 8th anniversary this year and CEO and founder, Farah Ramos, is ready to conquer the modelling and entertainment industries as she continues her family’s legacy of shaping future icons.
When asked how Farah Models started, CEO and founder Farah Ramos shares, ‘Yung pagiging talent manager ko, it was before Farah Models pa. I had a modelling agency before with business partners; it ran for three to five years. Hindi nag-work out ‘yung partnership nang maayos. It was really the toughest journey that I had as a businesswoman because I didn’t study business, I graduated communication arts. Pumasok lang ako sa industry because ‘yung mga clients, they would ask me if I know more models, para sa show na ‘to. And I would always get the job for my friends. So, sabi ko, bakit di na lang ako magtayo ng agency, pagkakitaan ko na lang siya. So, dun siya nag-start. In 2017, that’s when I opened my own agency, Farah Models. And when I started, I wanted to have just a few models, five lang ‘yung sinimulan ko and it was really diverse – isang Pinay, isang half American, isang half Arab, so diverse. And kaya konti lang, kasi nakita ko ‘yung mommy ko (Chit Ramos) and tita ko (Ethel Ramos), isa isa lang na mga sikat na artista. Gusto ko dapat ganun sa modelling agency ko, konti lang sila, but it’s not gonna work for modelling kasi the brands, they want new faces all the time. So, kailangan kong mag-scout nang mag-scout, dumami sila, and ngayon, 26 na sila.”
Born into a family of veteran celebrity managers, Farah was raised in the orbit of legends. Her aunt, Ethel Ramos, guided the careers of Aga Muhlach, Angel Locsin, Claudine Barretto, and Ina Raymundo, while her mother, Chit Ramos, managed Maja Salvador, Niño Muhlach, Matt Ranillo III, and many more.
Though showbiz runs in her blood, Farah charted her own course. She began as a professional model before establishing her first modeling agency in 2013, eventually founding Farah Models in 2017. From there, she built a powerhouse brand that bridges fashion and entertainment with a bold vision for talent development.
Today, Farah Models represents 26 of the country’s most promising models, blending local and international appeal. At its anniversary celebration, the agency will introduce 8 of the Most Promising Talents in the Philippines—each one embodying a unique face of Asia.
Meet the Different Faces of Asia
Ronto Katsura – The Rising Oriental Face
Breaking into the scene through GMA’s Foreignoy, Ronto Katsura has proven that stepping out of one’s comfort zone leads to big opportunities. With his striking oriental features, natural charisma, and versatile look, he has quickly caught the attention of both brands and creatives. Despite being with Farah Models for less than a year, Ronto has already landed campaigns with top Filipino labels and continues to be sought-after for collaborations. In a time when Asian representation is becoming more prominent on international runways, Ronto stands as one of the models to watch from the Philippines.
Laziz Rustamov – The Global Heartthrob
Born in Uzbekistan but proudly carrying a “Pusong Pinoy” spirit, Laziz Rustamov has built a career that reflects both resilience and global appeal. For the past eight years in Manila, he has become one of the country’s most visible international models, appearing in major billboards, commercials, print campaigns, and runway shows. Beyond modeling, he is also cultivating a growing acting career, recently appearing in Batang Quiapo as a Russian mafia character, as well as roles in Tadhana: Fake Love, Beauty Empire, and The Iron Heart. A former Pinoy Big Brother housemate, Laziz dreams of landing a lead role in film or television. Off the runway, he is a trained chef and a self-confessed mama’s boy—proving that his charm goes beyond looks and into the kind of warmth that resonates with audiences.
Riona Johnston – The Timeless Irish-Filipina Muse
For many aspiring models, introversion can be a roadblock. But for Irish-Filipina beauty Riona Johnston, the runway became her stage for transformation. Though naturally shy off-cam, she radiates confidence and allure once she steps into the spotlight. This duality has made her fascinating to brands and creatives alike. Recently, she worked with top designer Mark Bumgarner and even landed a magazine cover early in her career. What makes Riona even more remarkable is her loyalty—she has been with Farah Models since its founding in 2017, celebrating her 8th year with the agency. A rare combination of grace, charisma, and steadfastness, Riona exemplifies what it means to grow alongside Farah Models.
Venus Perol – The Face of Diversity
Named by Mega Magazine as one of the “50 Models of the Moment,” Venus Perol is proof that individuality is power. With her striking American-Filipina features, bold curly hair, and magnetic aura, Venus effortlessly embodies inclusivity and diversity—the very qualities the fashion industry now celebrates. But behind her commanding presence is a warm, approachable personality that draws people in. Her portfolio includes editorials, campaigns, and collaborations that showcase her versatility, from high fashion to commercial. In a competitive industry filled with beautiful faces, Venus stands out not only for her unique look but also for her confidence in owning it.
Jane Chantal Sy – The Elegant Chinese-Filipina
With her Chinese-Filipina roots, Jane Chantal Sy has carved out a space as one of Farah Models’ most in-demand talents. A cover girl for Mega Magazine and a member of its “50 Models of the Moment,” Jane is known for her effortless grace and fluidity in front of the camera. Photographers and clients consistently praise her for her professionalism, adaptability, and natural ability to elevate a brand’s vision. Her consistency in being rebooked by the same clients is a testament to her reliability and strong work ethic. As she continues to grow in her career, Jane is setting her sights on larger stages in both fashion and entertainment.
Kaela Alcantara – The Classic Filipina Beauty
Classic Filipina beauty finds its face in Kaela Alcantara. Known for her soft features, graceful aura, and effortless appeal, Kaela has been among the most sought-after models at Farah Models. But beyond her work in fashion, she is preparing to take her career in a new direction: pageantry. Though shy at first glance, Kaela surprises people the moment she speaks—revealing a depth of wisdom, eloquence, and insight well beyond her years. With her poise, intelligence, and natural beauty, she is poised to represent the Philippines on bigger stages, embodying both grace and empowerment.
Su Jin Kim – The Beauty and Brains of Korea
A true embodiment of beauty and brains, Su Jin Kim seamlessly balances her modeling career with her role as an award-winning TV reporter and business correspondent for the Bilyonaryo News Channel. Recently recognized with the “Boses ng Talino” Award by the Philippine Institute
for Development Studies, Su Jin is celebrated for her evidence-based economic reporting—making her a respected voice in journalism. At the same time, her elegance and confidence make her a sought-after face for fashion campaigns and editorials. By straddling two demanding industries, Su Jin proves that intelligence and artistry can coexist, setting her apart as an inspiring role model for young women.
Vienne Shirin – The Multi-Hyphenate Filipina
From the catwalk to the camera, Vienne Shirin is a true multi-hyphenate. A model, coach, beauty queen, host, and now actress, she has consistently expanded her horizons. Recently, she appeared in the independent film Beyond the Call of Duty and on primetime television in Love Before Sunrise, where she portrayed the girlfriend of Jason Abalos’ character. Named “First Lady” by Pulso World, Vienne has also carved a reputation as a charismatic events host and a strong advocate for empowering others. With her versatility and ambition, she is already building an international presence, ready to conquer new opportunities in modeling, pageantry, and acting.
With 26 talents under their management, are they looking for more? And what are they looking for exactly?
“Sa modelling industry, ‘yung mga brands they always look for new faces. Kunwari, naka-work niya si ganitong brand, next time around, ibang face ang gustong maka-work nila. So, kailangan continuous ang pag-scout namin. Lahat ng sina-scout namin, tine-train namin ‘yun sa Farah Models Camp with coach Cris Lomotan. And also, coach ko din ‘yung mga models ko. So, Vienne is doing runway coaching sa model camp ko, I’m doing FMC (Farah Models Camp) with Laziz and also with Su Jin Kim, she’s doing intro to modelling,” Farah answers.
(In the modelling industry, the brands are always looking for new faces. For example, you work with this brand today, next time around, they’ll be looking for a different face to work with. The scouting is and should be continuous. All the models we scout are also trained via Farah Models Camp with coach Cris Lomotan. Our models are also coaches – Vienne is doing runway coaching, I’m doing FMC with Laziz and also, with Su Jin Kim, she’s dping intro to modelling).
Watch our coverage from the media launch below:
HYPE MANIA 