Aiko Melendez’s daughter Marthena makes acting debut in short film

Aiko Melendez expressed pride and joy as her daughter Marthena Jickain is set to mark her acting debut in an upcoming short film.
Melendez took to Instagram on Monday, March 30, to share that Marthena is starring in her very first short film, portraying a younger version of the seasoned actress in “Kapag Humupa Na ang Ingay.”
“It truly warms my heart to witness Marthena take this beautiful step in her journey,” Melendez wrote. “As a mother, there’s no greater joy than seeing your child embrace her passion with courage, dedication, and love for the craft.”
“Watching her on set, giving life to a character so close to my own story, is something I will forever treasure. This moment is more than just a milestone; it’s a memory etched in my heart,” she added.
Marthena is joined in the short film by actor KD Estrada, whom Melendez praised for his kindness and humility on set.
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“Beyond his undeniable talent, what stood out the most is his kindness and respect towards everyone on set. It’s always inspiring to work with someone who not only knows how to act but also carries himself with humility and grace,” expressed the celebrity mom.
The post was accompanied by behind-the-scenes photos of “Kapag Humupa Na ang Ingay,” where Marthena and Estrada happily posed for the cameras as they held each other’s hands.
“Kapag Humupa Na ang Ingay” is set to stream on April 2 on Melendez’s YouTube channel. The trailer is now available to watch on the said channel. The short film is directed by Ronald Guyo and written by Melendez.
The short film is set to tackle Melendez’s love story with actor-turned-entrepreneur Onemig Bondoc, who will also star in the project. Estrada will portray his younger version.
Marthena is Melendez’s daughter with former partner Martin Jickain. The actress also has a son, Andrei Yllana, from her previous relationship with actor Jomari Yllana. /ra