The world of showbiz in the Philippines has once again been shaken by a long-standing secret related to her love story. Carmina Villaroel , one of the country’s most beloved actresses and hosts , released an emotional statement that shed light on an aspect of her life that had long been kept secret: the fact that she and her ex-husband, Rustom Padilla , now known as BB Gandanghari, have a child .

This story is not just about a secret child , but a testament to the courage and determination of two people to face drastic changes while putting the well-being of their child first.

The Integration, The Change, and The Separation

Rustom Padilla and Carmina Villaroel’s love story began in the ’90s. In 1994, the two got married, when Carmina was only 20 years old and Rustom was 27. At first, their marriage was smooth, and both their families gave their blessings.

However, as the years passed, Carmina noticed changes in Rustom. According to her, her ex-husband had become “soft” and “soft,” which made her question the stability of their relationship. The excitement and intense love that had once existed gradually faded, and it was here that Rustom confessed to Carmina his true feelings about his gender and sexuality—he was more attracted to men.

This revelation caused Carmina a lot of pain. However, despite the hardship, she tried to understand the situation. But in the end, they decided to separate because the vitality of their married life could not be restored. Carmina filed for an annulment , which was officially approved in 2012.

The Transformation of BB Gandanghari

In the same year that Carmina’s annulment was approved , Rustom Padilla revealed his true identity: he is a trans woman named BB Gandanghari . He settled in Los Angeles, California, where he was allowed to officially change his name and gender to his legal identity. This step became an important part of his journey towards self-actualization.

Meanwhile, Carmina also moved on with her life. In 2012, she married her long-time partner Zoren Legaspi , and her family became the center of her life.

The Secret Child: Protection Against Criticism

In an emotional and detailed interview, Carmina revealed a secret she had kept for a long time: she and Rustom had a child when they were still married.

Much to the surprise of many, Carmina explained that their child was born before Rustom had fully revealed his sexuality and gender identity as BB Gandanghari. That time was still part of their married life, and it resulted in a blessing.

Carmina’s decision to keep her child a secret from the public and raise him abroad was rooted in her desire to protect the child from possible negative opinions, intrigue, and judgment from society. She wanted their child to have a quiet and independent life, away from the shadow of controversy.

Co-Parenting and the Love That Lasts

Carmina emphasized that even though she and Rustom/BB Gandanghari have separated as husband and wife, they have remained friends and have reached a good agreement to support and care for their child as parents. They have chosen to prioritize the child’s well-being and prove that even though they have chosen different paths, the love and responsibility as parents will remain.

Their story is inspiring that true love and respect never fade, even if the form of their relationship changes.

BB Gandanghari’s Repentance and Love

The depth of their relationship was also proven by BB Gandanghari’s statement in a blog in 2020. He emotionally declared that if he were given the chance to look back on his past, he would without a doubt choose Carmina as his life partner—if he had remained a man. This statement showed his deep respect and love for the relationship he and Carmina had.

Currently, Carmina and BB Gandanghari’s son continues to live a quiet, private, and happy life abroad. Although Zoren Legaspi remains silent on the issue, he remains steadfast and fully supports Carmina in all aspects of their marriage. The story of Carmina and Rustom/BB Gandanghari is a remarkable testament that love, in the face of any trial and change, has the ability to change form, but never fades.