After 14 long years, actress Jessy Mendiola reconnected with her Lebanese-British father. It was an emotional experience for the actress, who spoke about what happened to tabloid!.
People were surprised when you posted a photo on Instagram showing you with your long-lost father. How did it happen, and how did you feel?
I have long wanted to see my father as I have so many questions in my mind. I felt I was entitled to an explanation about why he left us. So I initiated the communication and invited him to come, without any expectation that he will answer or that he will actually come.
Then last week, he surprised us and the minute he gave me a hug and called me “my princess” all the hurt just melted away. I didn’t have the time to ask him the questions in my heart and in my mind. I cried when I saw him, I really missed him a lot. We hugged so tight, I couldn’t almost breathe.
We’ve seen the pictures of your dad, but nobody knows who he is. Can you tell us a bit about him?
Let’s keep his life private, if you don’t mind. He works as an anthropologist and he and my mother met so many years back in the UAE, where I was born. I was eight years old when he left, and last week was the first time I have seen him in years. I was very happy, it was an emotional moment for the two of us.
What did your mother have to say about the reunion?
She supports my decision, and whatever happened between them in the past is now just a past memory.
Do you still intend to ask him why he left?
He only has a few days’ stay in the Philippines, so the plan is to enjoy each moment with him. When the right opportunity comes, I will ask, and I’m sure I will get the answers that I am looking for.
What was it like growing without your father?
It was difficult in the beginning. As a child, you see other kids with their mums and dads, so you ask why you don’t have one. But I have a great mum and she raised us well, without any hatred for our dad. Her love and support were more than enough for a single parent.
Will your father be more involved in your life now that you have reconnected?
I don’t know, honestly. I am just relishing the moment. There is always room for another person in my heart, especially if it’s my dad.
