Happy birthday, Yaya Pat!
Kapamilya actress Janine Gutierrez gets sentimental on February 20, 2024, the day their family househelp, Pat Espera, celebrated her 70th birthday.
Read: How Janine Gutierrez overcomes imposter syndrome
To mark the occasion, Janine shared a nostalgic journey through time with a series of touching throwback photos.
The images capture moments from her childhood, where Yaya Pat played a significant role in her upbringing, extending to present-day snapshots that flaunt the enduring bond they share.
These were posted along with a heartwarming caption that reads: "The heart of our family [heart emoji] Happy happy 70th birthday, yaya pat!!
"Since before I was born, hanggang ngayon, sa kabila ng lahat nandiyan ka. We wouldn’t be who we are today if not for you."
What stands out in Janine's tribute is the revelation that her journey into acting was inspired by Pat, considering that her dad Ramon Christopher is an actor from the Gutierrez clan, while her mom, actress Lotlot de Leon, is the daughter of Drama King Christopher de Leon and Superstar Nora Aunor. Janine's paternal grandmother is Asia's Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales.
The Dirty Linen star confessed that it was the strength and support of her yaya that empowered her to pursue a career in the limelight at the age of 21.
She admits, "Kaya lang naman ako naglakas-loob na sumubok mag-artista, dahil at para naman talaga sayo."
Read: Talented actresses following in their mothers’ footsteps
The post reflects Janine's deep respect and love for Yaya Pat, and acknowledges her sacrifices and guidance for the Gutierrez siblings and their parents.
While recognizing that she may never fully match the contributions of Yaya Pat, Janine pledges to continue striving and working hard to repay her in whatever way she can.
Janine concludes, "Kahit alam ko na hindi ko mapapantayan lahat ng ibinigay, itinuro, sinakripisyo at ginawa mo para sa aming magkakapatid at kina mama at papa, sana alam mo na patuloy kong susubukang tapatan ito.
"I love you so much and we owe you everything. HAPPY BIRTHDAY YA!! [heart emoji]"
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