Becoming THAT Woman: The Influence of Ry Velasco’s Vlogs

Do you have any idea who that woman is, the one that social media seems to constantly idolize or aspire to become? She’s not Ry Velasco certainly.

But why, even though her existence may not be widely known, do so many people still try to live like her? One thing I am certain of, though: through the vlogs of Filipina vlogger Ry Velasco, I think I’ve figured out who that woman might be.

First and foremost, who’s Ry Velasco?

Ry Velasco is a Filipina vlogger who gained thousands of subscribers on her YouTube channel with content that includes makeup tutorials, skincare routines, and travel vlogs. In addition to her YouTube success, she has amassed a massive following on Instagram, Facebook, X, and now TikTok.

Ry began vlogging in 2014 as a college student, sharing her journey, skincare routines, and makeup tips, which quickly captivated young adults (myself included!). At the time, most vloggers were “mestiza,” and Ry became a prominent figure for “morenas,” alongside Michelle Dy. Recently, however, there has been a noticeable shift in the topics she covers in her vlogs.

*Photo from Ry Velasco’s Instagram Account | @ryvlsco*

However, Ry isn’t actually “Ry”—her full name is Mary Angel Velasco, and her angelic name truly suits her face! As far as I can remember, Ry influenced me to buy my first lip tint in 2017—the Peri-Pera brand—after she recommended it in one of her vlogs at her family’s house, calling it the perfect lip product for morenas like me. Her subsequent vlogs featured her trying different OOTDs, effortlessly rocking every outfit she wore. That’s when I discovered my favorite style—the button-up polos paired with mom jeans. Yes, what people now refer to as “tita outfits.” Even back then, it was clear that Ry’s fashion sense was impeccable. She loved wearing classy, elegant pieces that fit her perfectly, embodying that chic, “tita” style.

As a dedicated fan of Ry Velasco, I followed her college journey through her vlogs, including her 2019 graduation. In 2021, she celebrated a major milestone by purchasing her dream car, marking a key moment in both her life and vlogging career.

What happened when Ry turned 22?

This was a turning point in Ry’s life—and I believe it’s a turning point for many people, though some may lack the courage to take that step. She also uploaded a vlog called “love Letter for her viewers.” In it, she shared how she faced her fears and took the leap to move out of her family’s home to start a new chapter of her life. She began living alone in her cozy apartment with her dog, Loopy.

In her vlog, Ry mentioned that she, too, romanticizes living alone, just like many of us do, believing that life will be better as we take the time to navigate our own paths. While there’s a sense of sadness and longing for the once-noisy environment of family life, there’s also peace and tranquility in living alone. She’s just like us—a person who was once afraid to do things on her own, but now takes on household chores, unpacks boxes, lifts furniture, cooks meals, and handles it all by herself.

But because she’s Ry—a powerful, independent woman—she courageously took that first step. And as time went on, each subsequent step became easier. It wasn’t just her own determination that helped her, though. She noticed that the people around her, perhaps her friends and batchmates, were also living alone, and that gave her the extra push she needed to take this bold step.

I literally grew up with Ry Velasco

One of the great things about following an influencer who’s close to your age is that she feels like an older sister—especially for someone like me, who is the eldest. Since I don’t have anyone older than me to turn to for advice, I found myself watching her vlogs and learning a lot from her.

Ever since Ry moved out, growth has followed her every step of the way. From filming makeup hauls and sharing techniques, she began teaching us, her viewers, the realities of “adulthood.” Despite the challenges of doing household chores, she inspired us with her strength and independence. Watching her lift boxes of groceries from her car and carry them all the way to her apartment was motivating. Imagine a “kikay” who’s known for holding makeup brushes, now filming herself with screwdrivers, hammers, and drills to fix her furniture. Ry, you’ve truly taught me so much.

Ry consistently emphasized the importance of financial literacy and budgeting. She encouraged viewers to shop at local public markets for affordable products and to buy groceries in bulk. This not only saves money in the long run but also reduces the need for frequent store trips, cutting gas costs and promoting home-cooked meals over fast food.

Ry is very mindful of her body; she watches what she eats and prefers to cook her meals. As a result, her vlogs transitioned from makeup tutorials to cooking videos—and I have no problem with that! In fact, I enjoy watching her vlogs because they have a unique way of motivating you to be productive.

Ry isn’t Mary Angel

Ry isn’t just Mary Angel—wanna know why? Because Mary Angel represents the innocent child, the daughter of the famous boxer Onyok Velasco. But Ry Velasco is a different woman. The name “Ry Velasco” isn’t just given to her—it’s one she built for herself.

Through her vlogs—whether it’s her fitness journey, a day in her life, grocery hauls, or travel vlogs—Ry has built the life she truly deserves. Sometimes, she even films herself getting ready for events or work. Her earlier focus on makeup tutorials and techniques has now become part of her broader journey into adulthood. It’s no longer the main theme of her content.

In addition, when Deuce entered her life in July 2023, Ry started smiling more often, and I love how she treats her dogs like her children—so caring, soft, and gentle.

Despite being a famous personality who documents her life, Ry values her privacy deeply. She shares vlogs with her family, especially during Christmas, where my favorite line of hers is: “The one I bunot is…” But what most people don’t know is that Ry already has a partner, whom she keeps off-camera. It’s not because she’s shy about him, but because she respects and values her privacy, especially when it comes to her partner, for both their safety and peace of mind.

So, who is THAT woman?

Starting this year, Ry shared through her broadcast channel the challenge she’s currently tackling: the 75 Medium Rules. And guess what? I’m already on board!

After following Ry Velasco since 2017, I’ve come to realize that the woman everyone wants to become isn’t Ry. It isn’t Heart Evangelista, Kylie Jenner, Taylor Swift, or any other artist, either.

THAT woman is our adult version—the grown-up, independent woman who has conquered her fears and is now living the life she truly deserves. THAT woman is none other than the best version of ourselves.

Now I understand why everyone wants to become that woman. The journey isn’t about perfection; it’s about growth, resilience, and harnessing our inner strength to create the life we deserve.