John Estrada: I’m a strict but loving dad

From left: John Estrada, Priscilla Meirelles, Jack Nicklaus, Jo Villablanca and Derek Ramsay

As if it’s not enough for John Estrada and Derek Ramsay to sizzle onscreen, they have also conquered the golfing world. The dynamic duo beat two-man teams from all over the world at the Jack Nicklaus International Invitational Tournament in Ohio. Hooray!

Here’s my chat with John:

What was it like meeting your golf idol, Jack Nicklaus? As an actor, it was like meeting Clint Eastwood. It was one for the books.

What were the key factors that made you and Derek win? Since we have been golf buddies for three years now, we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. We intend to defend our title next year.

What’s the craziest thing that you guys have done together? When we landed in Ohio at 5:30 a.m., Derek asked me if I have heard of Cedar Point, the so-called “roller-coaster capital of the world.” He told me that it’s the Mecca for roller-coaster enthusiasts. So, after breakfast, we checked it out and rode seven of its 10 scary roller-coaster rides, even if we were still jetlagged. I’m glad we survived it with our partners, Pri (Meirelles) and Jo (Villablanca).

Has Derek asked you advice about marriage? Nope, but I would say that he’s ready to settle down, although I know that’d make a lot of girls cry. But my wife Priscilla and I hope that he and Joanne end up together. Jo really takes good care of Derek.

What was the highlight of your trip as couples? Jo and Pri were with us the whole nine yards. They followed us for two days till the last hole. They saw our great and bad shots. The highlight was when we won, and they congratulated us with hugs and kisses.

What’s your advice to aspiring golfers? They must have patience, discipline and focus. They can’t “gulp, gulp” (have a couple of beers) the night before the game (laughs).

How’s your relationship with your kids (with Janice de Belen)? I’m strict. I always remind my kids that if they do bad things, they must be ready to pay for them.

It’s for their own good. And I make sure my kids feel how much I love them.

The PLDT Home’s recent Mother’s Day campaign, #connectforreal, was a success. Even celebrities like Isabel Oli and Dimples Romana hopped on the bandwagon to pay tribute to their moms in their social media posts.