MARIAN Rivera with husband Dingdong Dantes and baby Zia
Marian Rivera is a picture of marital bliss and maternal happiness these days. This was quickly obvious when we interviewed her about her mag-ama (husband Dingdong Dantes and their Baby Zia) for this article. She said that having a daughter is a true blessing.
Our Q&A with the GMA 7 star:
How would you describe your relationship with Dingdong? My relationship with my husband has changed for the better. Mas lalong lumalim (it has deepened), especially after I gave birth. We understand each other [better] .
How do you balance your career and family life? It is hard, but you should know which to prioritize. My top priority is Zia. When she can do things on her own, that’s when I’ll think of my career.
What are your tips on being a good wife, mom and homemaker? As Dong’s wife, I support my husband in everything he does. Balancing everything is tough, but if you like what you’re doing, you don’t mind going through difficulties.
What are your favorite bonding activities with Dong and Zia? Dong, Zia and I go to the park and eat. We make time to do things together, especially where Zia’s schooling is concerned. Since Dong is very busy these days, I make sure I’m always there for Zia.
What do you love most about your husband? He supports me in everything that I do. He won’t say “no,” especially if he knows it’s what I really want. Now more than ever, he’s hands-on where it concerns Zia. He keeps asking me, “What do you want? What do you need?” That’s how supportive he is.
What stresses you the most? Nothing much stresses me out. There was some discomfort in breastfeeding, but I eventually got used to it. I’ve been doing it for more than a year now. So, it wasn’t really all that stressful.
What advice can you give to married couples? I don’t think I’m in a position to give advice about marriage, because there’s no such thing as a perfect relationship. It’s up to the couple to make the relationship work.
What to you is your most memorable role? In my case, it’s hard to compare “Marimar” to “Dyesebel” and “Darna.” For me, everything that actors do is memorable, so each one is special because I learn from all of them.
What do you enjoy the most about being a mom? Ay, ’pag iyan ang pinag-uusapan (Whenever motherhood’s the topic), that’s something special for me. I became more fulfilled as a woman when I became a mom. It made me whole as a person. Yes, I’m thankful to have Dong in my life, but having a child is priceless! Whenever my child sleeps, I keep saying, “Thank you, Lord, for this precious blessing.” Motherhood brings a different kind of high.
What are your future plans? I’d like to do a drama soap and movie that will hopefully costar Dong.