Benj Manalo (Image: Instagram/@benj)
Days after the passing of Jose Manalo’s estranged wife Anna Lyn Manalo, their son Benj Manalo honored his late mother by addressing her through an open letter.
The “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” actor mourned the death of his mother while showing himself hugging her urn on his Instagram page yesterday, Jan. 18. Benj also showed moments from his mother’s wake.
“Dear mommy, thank you for everything, thank you for all the life lessons you’ve shown us. [This] week was a [roller coaster] ride but it ended up in full restoration. Love, hope, peace, joy, sadness and family,” he said.
Benj also vowed that he will forever treasure the knowledge that Anna Lyn left for him and the rest of their family.
“You are a testimony to us, [a] testimony of God’s love to His children. We are saddened that you [had to go] through all of those but we are happy that you are now in His kingdom,” he told his mother. “You may sing and dance now and enjoy eternal life with God. You will be missed by your children, your sisters and everyone who loves you.”
Benj then expressed gratefulness for all those who extended their condolences to him and his family.
“Thank you for leading this family. I love you so much mommy. We love you. Rest now mom,” he addressed his mother.
Benj’s wife, actress Lovely Abella, meanwhile, promised Anna Lyn that she would take care of Benj as she looked back at the short time they had together.
“Hindi man tayo nagkakwentuhan ng matagal, di man tayo nagkasama pero ang isang mapapangako ko ay ‘di ko pababayaan ang anak mo at mga kapatid ko na din. Ramdam ko ang sakit na nararamdaman nila kaya masakit din sa ‘kin na sobra silang nasasaktan,” she said on her Instagram page last Sunday, Jan. 16.
(We may not have talked to each other for long, we may not have spent time together, but I promise that I will take care of your son and now, my siblings as well. I feel the pain they are feeling, so it hurts me that they are hurting so much.)
Benj and his sister Myki announced that their mother died last Friday, Jan. 14. They did not disclose the cause of Anna Lyn’s death. Anna Lyn and Jose have four children together, namely Benj, Myki, Ai and Niccolo. /ra
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