Actor and comedian Dennis Padilla appears to have finally closed the chapter on his strained relationship with his children with former partner Marjorie Barretto. This decision comes in the wake of events surrounding the recent wedding of his daughter, Claudia Barretto, where Dennis claimed he was treated as nothing more than a guest, despite being the father of the bride.
In a candid interview with Ogie Diaz, Dennis opened up about the emotional toll of constantly trying to reach out to his children, only to feel ignored. “Ayoko na, surrender na, finish. Tatay na lang nila ako. Pero bringing back the relationship, wala na siguro,” he admitted, expressing a sense of finality and resignation.
Dennis also revealed his pain over the lack of acknowledgment from his children on social media. “Not one of my children even posted my picture on Instagram… Not even a mention of my name, or that of my parents, who were also in showbiz. Zero. Why?” he asked, visibly hurt. He said he was only hoping for simple acts of care, even just a greeting on special occasions, as their father.
The veteran actor reflected on how he has been labeled as “toxic” by some of his children. “Talaga ba?” he asked, questioning the label. “Wala na, I’m sorry, wala na. Napagod na,” Dennis repeated several times, signaling that he had reached his limit. He admitted that while he once thought he would never tire of reaching out, he now realizes that he has given all he could.
“I thought hindi ako mapapagod. Akala ko hindi e. Napagod na” “Bibitbitin ko nalang ‘to hanggang mamatay ako.”
Padilla’s emotional revelations have sparked conversations online, with netizens expressing mixed reactions — some sympathizing with the actor, while others urging both parties to seek healing.
Despite the seeming finality in his words, many are still hopeful that time may eventually bridge the gap between Dennis and his children. For now, however, the actor has chosen to step back, believing he has done his part.