Jodi Sta. Maria
Blended family” was how actress Jodi Sta. Maria referred to some people whom she said loved her only son, Thirdy, unconditionally. Among them are her ex-husband Pampi Lacson; his partner, former actress Iwa Moto; and their daughter, Eve.
“There’s no greater feeling than knowing that your son is being loved,” Jodi told reporters during the media launch of her latest series on ABS-CBN, “Sana Dalawa ang Puso,” which premieres on Jan. 29.
Jodi was married to Pampi for five years. They separated in 2011.
“I always tell Thirdy that even though my marriage with his dad didn’t work out, we still care for him deeply. We now have a blended family. What’s great about it is that Thirdy has more people loving him unconditionally,” the 35-year-old actress shared with reporters.
As a mom, Jodi makes sure to spend quality time with Thirdy when not at work “by blocking off certain dates for our trips together. He is also busy with school activities. Lately, he has been going home at 6 p.m. because he’s a varsity member (of De La Salle Zobel),” she added.
Jodi recently returned to school and is taking up BS Psychology. “Thirdy is understanding and supportive. He’s one of my cheerleaders. When I told him that I was going back to school, he rejoiced. He was excited that we’ll be studying our respective lessons together.”
The actress, who is one of the top students in her class, recently posted on Instagram a photo of herself, holding up a dean’s list certificate.
“It started with a dream that I never let go of. I had wanted to go back to school,” the actress said. “At some point in my life, I decided to pursue it. I’m lucky that my family knows what’s really in my heart.”
Asked how she would assess her 2017, Jodi said: “The Lord has been good to me. It was a tough year, but then, what is easy, really? There will really be times when you face trials, but you eventually prevail.”
In “Sana Dalawa ang Puso,” Jodi plays two opposing characters: the career-driven Lisa and the loving daughter Mona. It was so difficult for her to portray these characters in the beginning that she requested to work with an acting coach, Carla Martinez.
“So, we created a backstory and discussed the needs and aspirations of each character to make them whole. Her input during the workshop helped me a lot,” said Jodi. “After years of being an actor, I have to admit that I also run out of ideas on how to effectively treat a character. I needed a new perspective on things.”
These days, Jodi said she could easily shift from being Lisa to Mona, and vice versa.
“When I’m made up and wearing false eyelashes, I’m Lisa…when my eyebrows are thick and I’m wearing a basketball jersey, I’m Mona.”
Directed by Rory B. Quintos and Mae Cruz-Alviar, the series also features Robin Padilla and Richard Yap.