Benny Padongao Andaya, also known as Direk Benny Andaya (born August 14, 1972, Tondo, Manila, Philippines) is a Filipino Journalist / Entertainment Writer, Actor, Independent Movie Director, Producer and Businessman, and also a Member of Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC).

He attended Primary Education in Tinapian Elementary School; Secondary in Lahong High School.

Andaya enrolled his Course in Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) in Adamson University (Manila) and was transferred to Aroroy Vocational Technical School (Masbate) where he earned his Bachelor's Degree. After graduating from College, he opted to live with his relatives in Cavite City and for some reasons, he transferred to Project 6, Quezon City after almost a year. While working in SM Prime Holdings, Incorporated in 1993, it was the time where he decided to try his luck in writing on a Tabloid. During his years as a successful Journalist, the Management of UNTV has offered a project for him and it was considered as a big break in his career in TV Hosting. Currently, he has a column in X-Files and one in Bagong TIKTIK and has a time slot in DZME 1530 kHz as a Radio Anchor.

He was the top performer in most of the training courses he attended (How To Become A Responsible Columnist?)

WRITING & DIRECTING:

Uhaw Sa Piling Mo; Service Boys; Putok; Tatlong Beses, Isang Araw; Palaboy; Ligaw Na Puso (on shooting)

TV Guesting:

MAGPAKAILANMAN  GMA7

LITTLE STAR   GMA7

NAGBABAGANG BULAKLAK   TV5

ACTING: JUMBO JERICHO  AWARDS: 2013 Global Excellence Awardee as "Outstanding Media Personality"

2014 Dangal Ng Bayan Awardee for Media & Entertainment as "Outstanding Indie Film Director"

2015 Dangal Ng Bayan Awardee as "Oustanding Entertainment Columnist & Radio Broadcaster"