Whenever I chance upon BFF Buboy’s (Cesar Montano) old films on TV, I tell him in jest that he must have sent his son, Diego Loyzaga, to act as his double. Aside from being carbon copies, Buboy and Diego now have a common denominator, fatherhood.
As a Father’s Day exclusive, Buboy shares his thoughts about Diego being a brand-new dad and his sentiments on being a “lolo” the third time around. (His two other apos are Clyde and Joshua, the sons of his eldest daughter, Angela).
Grandfatherhood never looked so good.
Here’s my chat with BFF Buboy:
How do you feel about being a “lolo” again?
I am proud and I feel so blessed. Praise God! Dumarami ang aking angkan. Only a great God can give such a beautiful gift, Hailey (baby girl of Diego).
What ‘s your fatherhood advice to Diego?
Before I give him advice, I want to make it clear that I am not a perfect father. I am still a work in progress. I have failures and shortcomings. But I grew and learned important things that I want to share with my dear son, Diego.
No. 1 is to be present and engaged. This means spending quality time, actively listening to his daughter, and being involved in her life. Show interest in her passions and encourage her to pursue her dreams.
No. 2 is to be patient and understanding. As kids learn and grow, they may make mistakes along the way. Avoid overreacting or getting too critical. Instead, offer guidance and support as they navigate the ups and downs of childhood.
No. 3 is to lead by example. As a father, you are a role model. Demonstrate the behaviors and values you want your child to emulate.
From left John Estrada, Priscilla Meirelles and daughter Anechka—PHOTO COURTESY OF NICE PRINT
John and Priscilla celebrate revitalized marriage
What a blast I had at the birthday bash of my good friend, John Estrada, in Kao. His costars in “Batang Quiapo,” led by Coco Martin, came in full force to celebrate with the golden boy who does not look 50 at all. Also at the fête were Sharon Cuneta, Kiko Pangilinan and Richard and Lucy Gomez.
Aside from John’s birthday, it was also a celebration of his revitalized marriage with Pri after the recent trial they went through. As the birthday boy said in his speech, “Pri, I may have failed you a thousand times, but I will save you a million times.”
In the spirit of fun, Coco and Richard ribbed John about the intrigues hounding him and Pri when they paid tribute to the birthday boy.
I asked Pri what makes her most proud of John. “Knowing where he comes from, and how he rose in his career despite what he has been through in life is truly something to be proud of,” she beamed. “He is indeed a self-made man. “
Pri and their daughter Anechka’s gift to John is a necklace chain, which he has been looking for. She also made a video of birthday greetings for her hubby.
All is well now in la vida de familia Estrada.
Julia Barretto (left) and Diego Loyzaga
Etiquette for exes
When I came up with an “Etiquette for Exes” post on my social media accounts, it generated a lot of feedback. Being an ex is quite a tricky matter. The demarcation line is not always clear.
Are exes “ex-cluded” or do they remain an “ex-tra” in our lives? So if your heart is in limbo as an ex, you must watch “Will You Be My Ex?” It’s a Studio Viva and Firestarters production that is presented by Viva Films and showing in cinemas beginning June 21.
Topbilled by Julia Barretto, Bea Binene and Diego Loyzaga and directed by Real Florido, the movie takes viewers on a roller-coaster ride—from love to friendship and everything in between.
Here are quotes from Julia (J), Diego (D), Bea (B) and Real (R):
J: I can relate to the character I portray. We both had to let go of someone we still love. We both know when to walk away and set a loved one free.
D: Some exes manage to remain friends after their hearts have healed. It does not work for everyone though.
B: I won’t date the ex of a friend out of delicadeza. It would be too awkward.
R: Our film tackles the inner workings of ex-lovers. After a breakup, it’s not as simple as goodbye then hello to the next one.
J: For me, an ex must remain an ex. No second chances allowed.
B: I like how my character in the film knows her worth even while she makes some sacrifices in the name of love.
R: Our film tries to make sense of the foolishness that love brings.