Distance didn’t stop proud parents Janella Salvador and Markus Paterson from celebrating their little boy’s milestone.
Janella is currently in the middle of work commitments in the Philippines, while Markus is said to be abroad.
But both made sure to mark the occasion online with messages that overflowed with love and longing.
The celebrity parents took to Instagram to express how much they missed their son—especially on Monday, October 20, 2025—when Jude Trevor Paterson turned five years old.
Read: Janella Salvador, Markus Paterson together for Jude's 3rd birthday
Markus promises not to miss Jude's birthday again
Markus, who has been open about how much fatherhood changed him, shared a reel that stitched together tender father-and-son moments through the years.
The clip opens with Jude spelling “Papa” and “Jude” while lying in bed beside Markus.
Viewers then see the two playing the xylophone, running around a playground, jumping on trampolines, and finally, Jude climbing onto the bed with his baby bottle before curling up to sleep beside his dad.
Markus wrote: “First and last birthday we’re not together, bud.
“The video calls and updates aren’t enough but I’ll power through. Happy 5th my boy. I love you.”
Read: Markus Paterson makes the most of son Jude's malambing ways
Janella reassures son Jude of her constant love
Meanwhile, Janella shared a carousel of photos capturing various memories with her son—from travel adventures to cozy days at home.
“It’s the first time I have to be away for your birthday,” she began.
“But I hope you know that though the world may be unpredictable at times, the one constant thing I can promise you is my love.”
She continued: “Today marks the day you were born but also the day I earned someone to navigate this crazy life with.
“How lucky am I? Happy birthday, you feisty little one [red balloon emoji].”
Set to the gentle background music of Dr. Dog's "Where'd All the Time Go?," Janella's post carried a bittersweet and nostalgic sentiment.
Read: Janella Salvador prays for corruption-free future for son Jude
Though no longer together, Janella and Markus have often expressed their mutual commitment to co-parenting their son with love and respect.
Jude, who has been a familiar face on both parents’ Instagram pages since his birth in 2020, continues to charm followers with his lively personality.
Details about why Janella and Markus were apart for Jude’s birthday were not disclosed, but fans speculated that professional commitments may have kept them in different locations.
READ MORE:
- Markus Paterson, di pa handang magmahal muli; muntik magsundalo
- Markus Paterson clarifies he's "friends" with ex-girlfriend Janella Salvador; says he will "never not love" her
- Janella Salvador, Klea Pineda spotted together at tattoo studio
- Markus Paterson on lessons from past relationships: “Never to f*ck*ng date someone in the industry.”