Dingdong Dantes was both happy and sad when he greeted his daughter Zia on her birthday 6th birthday last November 23, 2021, Tuesday.
Based on his recent Instagram posts, Dingdong has since been at work away from his wife Marian Rivera and children, Zia and Sixto.
He couldn't even come home for his unica hija's special day and had to contend himself with sending a birthday message to her on Instagram.
The AlterNate actor uploaded a throwback of them together, and expressed how much he missed his panganay.
His message read, "Dear Z, For the last six years, this is the first time that I haven’t had you under my armpits for this long.
"I can just imagine how your Lolo Jigg felt, when he worked in a cruise ship for one year in HKG when I was around 8 years old.
"It's kinda hard for me, but the thought of you being safe and happy there at home with your mom and brother makes me at peace.
"This last video that we did together definitely makes me miss you more-- you were amazing! [emoji]"
The Kapuso actor then promised he would more than make up for his absence on Zia's birthday..
He continued, "Don’t worry, when I get back home, we’ll definitely make more memories with these after-dinner songs, which will come after your regular animated storytelling of how your day had transpired.
"It has been 20 days since i left and despite the gloominess of this rest day, there is this indescribable feeling of joy knowing that on this day, God has gifted the world with someone like you."
Toward the end of his post, Dingdong wished Zia a happy birthday: "Happy 6th, Ate Z. When you're a bit older, i hope you’ll understand why Dada isn’t with you on this special day.
"For now, i’ll just have to play this over and over till I have you back under my armpits again. Forgive me for posting this, for i can’t help falling in love with you."
Marian Rivera also left a short but sweet message for her dalagita.
The Kapuso actress wrote, "Ate Z turns 6! My precious daughter, may you continue to be a loving, sweet and kind girl.
"You’re such a blessing to everyone around you. We miss you dada wish you were here to celebrate with us but thank you for working hard for us. We love you anak!"
ZIA'S 6TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
For Zia's birthday, Marian organized a teddy-bear themed pink party to celebrate the occasion.
Llast Saturday, November 27, 2021, Marian shared photos on Instagram from the intimate but festive birthday party at their home in Makati City.
She wrote in the caption: "For Zia’s sixth birthday, her wish is for everyone to be happy and safe… [emoji] #LoveYouAteZ [emoji]"
In another post, Marian also posted photos of their youngest child Sixto playing with some toys at an activity area mounted in their backyard.
Celebrities also sent their birthday greetings and wishes for Zia in the comments section of Marian's post.
Among those who left comments were Angel Locsin, Ai-Ai delas Alas, Mariel Padilla, Kim Molina, Jerald Napoles, Arthur Solipan, Cat Arambulo, Kelly Misa, Iya Villania, Teddy Manuel, Juan Sarte, and Nina Corpuz, among many others.
Happy 6th birthday, Zia!
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