From left: Lee O’Brian, Pokwang, baby Malia and Ria Mae
At 45, comedienne Pokwang is still keen on having a third child.
“If God grants us another one, then thank You Lord!” the comedienne tells the Inquirer.
Pokwang says Malia, her 7-month-old baby with American actor Lee O’Brian, is such a blessing. “She is actually our lucky charm. In fact, Papang (Lee) has gotten a lot of offers at work since Malia was born.”
To be fit for pregnancy, Pokwang had to stop smoking. She also made sure to eat healthy and stay stress-free. “Of course, we also prayed hard for it. My prayer was always like, ‘Lord, if You grant my wish, then thank You. If not, it’s perfectly OK.’ He gave Malia to us. At my age, she is truly a miracle.”
Hers was a difficult pregnancy, Pokwang adds. Her doctor advised complete bed rest. “To stop working was a sacrifice,” says the family breadwinner. “I had to discontinue even my rackets. I returned all the downpayments I previously accepted. I had to choose between work and happiness. Of course, I chose the latter.”
The name Malia is a combination of Marlyn (Lee’s mother) and Gloria (Pokwang’s mother), she explains. “We didn’t realize until later that when you combine Marietta (Pokwang’s real name) and Lee, you also end up with Malia,” she points out.
“Now, Malia is already so talkative. She enjoys eating. ’Di iyakin,” says Pokwang.
On her willingness to share stories about the baby in her social media account, Pokwang explains: “I had a delicate pregnancy. While I was still carrying her, many of my followers were praying for us. So, why won’t I share with them the answer to all of our prayers?”
Asked for her advice to new moms, Pokwang says they should be extremely patient, especially when it comes to breastfeeding their child.
“Sadly, I got to breastfeed Malia for only five months, even though I tried taking supplements to increase my milk. Also, it would help if you follow the instructions of your pediatrician,” she says.
Pokwang’s eldest daughter Ria Mae is 22 years older. “She loves her sister so much. They have a lot of bonding moments, which you will also see in my Instagram account. If she doesn’t have work, she is at home taking care of her sister,” says the proud mom.
Pokwang recently resumed work. She is set to do two indie movies this year and will be part of a soap series, titled “Honey My Love So Sweet” for ABS-CBN.
“I’m back to work with renewed passion. This time, I’m working for Malia’s future,” she declares.