Marian Rivera recently opened up about her challenging yet inspiring upbringing in an interview with Karen Davila.
Behind the glitz and glamour is her story of resilience shaped by love, sacrifice, and a deep understanding of family.
Born to a Spanish father and a Filipino mother, Marian faced the reality of her parents’ separation at a young age. Marian was two years old when her parents decided to part ways, leaving her in the care of her maternal grandmother in Cavite.
“Nagkasundo sila na [ako] ay ‘papaalaga kay nanay, kay lola,” the actress shared.
Her mother worked abroad to provide for Marian’s needs, while her grandmother became her constant source of guidance and love.
She further detailed that at a young age, her mother already explained why she’s working hard, saying, “Ginagawa kong lahat to para sa’yo. Gusto kita bigyan ng magandang future.”
When asked about the challenges of growing up without parents, Marian admitted that there were moments of longing, especially during school activities.
“Sa lahat ng bata [na may broken family] mahirap ‘yan,” she said, “May mga activity ka sa school, wala yung parents mo.
“Makikita mo yung mga classmate mo kumpleto sila,” she added.
The actress expressed that it was the kind of situation she didn’t want, but had to accept it with understanding.
Marian also shared what her grandmother had told her during those times.

Source: Karen Davila (YouTube)
“Never kong nakalimutan, sabi niya, ‘Anak, never ka magtatanim ng sama ng loob mo sa mga magulang mo. Kasi you will never be successful kapag ganyan ang point of view mo sa buhay,’” she recalled.
“Pero wala kang sama ng loob? Even with your dad?” Karen asked.
“Wala,” Marian answered, “Siguro hinubog ako ng lola ko na ganun yung perception na kailangan kong intindihin na hindi lahat naaayon sa gusto mo.”
Despite facing the challenges of growing up, Marian Rivera found strength in her grandmother’s guidance and her mother’s sacrifices. Her upbringing not only shaped her values but also influenced her approach to motherhood and marriage.
Sources: (1)
Keep Reading: Marian Rivera is awarded “People of the Year” from PeopleAsia magazine
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