Nova Villa

Novelita Acosta Villanueva Gallegos (born April 16, 1946), known professionally as Nova Villa, is a Filipino actress and comedian. Known primarily as the "Goddess of Comedy", she is regarded as one of the pillars in Philippine entertainment and is celebrated as one of the greatest Filipino comedians of all time. She has since appeared in over 150 films and has been prominent in situational comedies such as Chicks to Chicks (1971–1991), Home Along Da Riles (1992–2003) and Pepito Manaloto (2010–present). Among her many accolades includes the "Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal" bestowed by Pope Francis, the highest papal award the Vatican can give a layperson. She is the third actress with the most wins (4) at the PMPC Star Awards for TV in the "Best Comedy Actress" category. She was also honored with the Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Award, Manuel de Leon Award for Exemplary Achievement at the 37th Luna Awards, and the Helen Vela Lifetime Achievement Award for Comedy at the 2012 Golden Screen TV Awards.