Becoming a father is a life-changing experience that knows no age boundaries.
In fact, here are some well-known figures who have defied societal expectations and embraced fatherhood later in life, proving that age is just a number when it comes to parenting.
Let's take a closer look at eight Filipino celebrity dads who welcomed children after the age of 50.
Read also: Celebrity dads with the most number of kids
Vic Sotto
Prominent TV host and the country's very own "Bossing" Vic Sotto, had already experienced the joys of fatherhood with his four children—Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, celebrities Danica Sotto and Oyo Boy Sotto, and Paulina Sotto.
However, at the age of 63, Vic and his current wife Pauleen Luna were blessed with their firstborn, Mary Talitha Luna Sotto, affectionately called Tali.
Since her arrival, Tali has stolen hearts with her adorable presence on social media.
Read also: Noontime show nina Tito, Vic & Joey sa TV5, 'This Is Eat!' ang title?
Cesar Montano
Filipino actor Cesar Montano has been in the field of fatherhood three times now, throughout his showbiz career.
His eldest son, Diego Loyzaga, was born during his relationship with former partner Teresa Loyzaga. Following his marriage to Sunshine Cruz, Cesar became a proud father to 'tres marias'—Angelina, Sam, and Chesca.
However, Cesar's journey as a father didn't end there. At the age of 55, he welcomed three more children—Sam, Liam, and Kristen—with his current partner, Kath Angeles.
Read also: Sunshine Cruz "so happy" to meet ex-husband Cesar Montano's kids with Kath Angeles
JOEY MARQUEZ
Joey Marquez, a beloved Filipino actor and comedian, has a remarkable story of fatherhood. With a total of 16 children, Joey exemplifies the saying, "The more, the merrier."
His principle in life is to treat all his half-siblings as full siblings, fostering close relationships among them, ensuring they embrace the value of family.
Joey's journey as a father began when he had his first child at the young age of 15. At 65, he continues to nurture and care for his three young kids—Jazalla, Jacob, and Joeygy—with his current partner.
Read also: Joey Marquez teaches all his 16 children to love and care for each other
ROBIN PADILLA
Arguably the poster boy for Philippine action stars, Senator Robin Padilla is known for his charm and prowess, both on- and off-screen.
Fathering celebrities Kylie Padilla and Queenie Padilla, Robin's parenting style is often subject to the public eye.
He welcomed his youngest child with current wife Mariel Rodriguez-Padilla, Gabriela, at the age of 50.
Read also: Mariel Padilla not keen on having baby number 3; jokes, "Ikakamatay ko na po."
JOSEPH "ERAP" Estrada
While Joseph "Erap" Estrada's acting career as well as his status as the 13th President of the Philippines made him a household name, his personal life has been equally captivating.
A quick internet search reveals that he has at least 10 children from various relationships.
One of his most popular children, Jake Ejercito, may not be the youngest of his brood, but his birth was significant as Erap was just days away from turning 53.
Read also: Jake Ejercito posts picture of daughter Ellie with Erap on his dad's birthday
Rodrigo "Digong" Duterte
Another former president is on the list, and he's none other than Rodrigo "Digong" Roa Duterte—the figure with political star power like no other in the 21st century.
Aside from being the father of current Vice President Sara Duterte, Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte, and Davao City Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte, he also became a parent to influencer Veronica "Kitty" Duterte at 59 years old..
Last year, the Davaoeño took to the dance floor to celebrate Kitty's 18th birthday.
Read also: More reasons why Presidential daughter Kitty Duterte is not the person to mess with
JOEL CRUZ
Business tycoon and Aficionado CEO, Joel Cruz, has captured attention not only for his entrepreneurial success but also for his unique path to fatherhood through surrogacy.
Joel's deep desire to become a father led him to spend approximately PHP54 million to welcome his eight children into the world.
Two of his youngest children, Zaid and Ziv, were born in 2018 when Joel was 53, adding more blessings in his later life.
Read also: Why Joel Cruz no longer recommends surrogacy clinic he used in Russia
SMOKEY MANALOTO
Kapamilya actor-comedian Smokey Manaloto surprised his fans when he embraced fatherhood at the age of 51.
In a TikTok video, he shared the joyous news, revealing that "something big" had happened in his life: "Akala ko nga huli na. Hindi pa pala!"
Despite the initial doubts, Smokey proved that it's never too late to experience the wonders of raising a child for the first time. His story serves as a reminder that life is full of unexpected surprises, and that the journey of fatherhood can begin at any age.
Read also: Smokey Manaloto nilinaw ang kanyang tunay na edad: "51 na po ako."