IWA MOTO (left), Jolo Revilla and Jodi Sta. Maria (background) with their respective children Gabriel (right) and Thirdy (left)
Actress Jodi Sta. Maria says her son with estranged husband Pampi Lacson is getting along well with the latter’s new partner, Iwa Moto.
“Everything is OK now. Pampi and I worked this out, not for ourselves but for our son (Thirdy). We don’t want him to grow up conflicted,” Jodi told entertainment writers during her launch recently as the face of the “Alagang Flawless” campaign. “It doesn’t matter who made the first move and [apologized]. What’s important is that all is well now, for Thirdy’s sake.”
More comfortable
Jodi and Pampi announced their separation in March 2011 and filed for annulment shortly after. The “Be Careful With My Heart” star said Thirdy is now more comfortable around Iwa, who gave birth to a baby girl in September.
Frequent visitor
“Thirdy visits them often. I have never heard him say anything negative about [Iwa],” Jodi said. “[Iwa and I] don’t communicate regularly. I’ve seen Thirdy’s baby sister only in photos. He’s crazy about her. I constantly remind him to be a good kuya.”
Jodi said she never kept the reason for the breakup from her 8-year-old son. “He’s a smart kid. Not for a single moment did I underestimate his understanding of things. I patiently explain things to him whenever he asks. I will not go into the details, but I sit down and talk with him.”
She discovered interesting things about Thirdy when he became a big brother [to Baby Eve], Jodi said. “He’s so loving and thoughtful, laging nakadikit sa baby. He tells me about her. Recently, he said, ‘Mom, my baby sister already has tears when she cries.’ He’s so cute!”
The actress pointed out that Pampi is a responsible father. “He loves our son and I never worry when Thirdy is with him. Hindi siya nagkulang. And he really makes time for the boy, especially when he is needed in school.”
She was cautious when discussing Thirdy’s relationship with her boyfriend, Bacoor Vice Gov. Jolo Revilla. “Thirdy calls him tito (uncle). It’s clear to Thirdy who Jolo is to him. I don’t want my son to be confused about the role of his dad and that of the person I am with.” She added, “Pampi is always [accessible to Thirdy]. I don’t want to cause him any disrespect. He and Jolo both know where they stand.”
Not prepared
Talk has it that the annulment case will soon be decided. Jodi refused to confirm this. “I will answer questions about my annulment at the proper time,” she stressed.
She is emotionally unprepared to get married again, Jodi pointed out. “Jolo knows this. We talk about my dreams and aspirations—marriage is not yet one of them. He sees how well my career is going, and understands that I shouldn’t waste any opportunities right now.”
Prayers for him
As Jolo’s girlfriend, Jodi said, she shows support by “praying for him and his family.” The Revillas are the subject of public scrutiny, with the alleged involvement of Jolo’s father, Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., in the P10-billion pork barrel scam.
“Praying for them is the best I can do. I hope they overcome this trial. Jolo knows I’m here for him, especially if he needs someone to talk to. I offer him a shoulder to cry on,” she said. “It’s true, he’s been emotional lately. This is not unusual for a person going through a lot.”
(mcruz@inquirer.com.ph)