SHE is a woman with lots of heart.

Twenty-two-year-old Maria Christine Capila Jayasuria's name might not strike a chord of familiarity with many Malaysians but the actress cum singer cum model is well known in her homeland, the Philippines.

She started singing at age six for church and various community events. By the time she was 14, she had been "discovered", but the young lass turned down the offer because she thought she was too young then.

"When I turned 16, I thought I was ready, so I contacted the agent then. From there I was introduced to the world of television as well as various pageants," said Christine.

Two years later, fame quickly came and it was apparent that she was on her way to becoming someone big. But the self-professed romantic gave it all up for love.

"I met my husband at 18. He is a Malaysian and I met him while at a gig here. I knew he was the one for me. Many people were shocked when I decided to give up my career and take the marriage route but what can I say," said Christine.

"It was love at first sight and these things don't just happen everyday."

Today, Christine wears many hats: she is a wife, volunteer, student in that order. Plus, she still models and sings from time to time.

"Singing and modelling are now more of a hobby for me. When I get calls for jobs back in Manila, I would go if the time permits.

"I do some modelling locally as well. To me, my family is my priority, I even help out at my husband's company."

Christine is in the midst of doing her degree in psychology to be better equipped for volunteer work.

"I help out at an orphanage and I think a degree in psychology will allow me to understand the children better. When I am there, I spend time with the children and help feed the younger ones as well. I think most of them just need some care and to feel loved."

Christine loves to spend time at home and just chill out with friends, adding that partying is really not quite her scene.

"What I have in store for the moment is writing a romantic novel," she said.

For Christine, who gave up a lucrative career in entertainment to focus on her family, there is no such thing as regret.

"Today modelling has taken a back seat in my life. While I still enjoy it and would take up jobs from time to time, my dream is to start an orphanage."