Baron Geisler’s wife Jamie on his love child; Benjie Paras on son Kobe and Kyline

Nadia Montenegro put an end to the controversy hounding her and Baron Geisler about their grown-up daughter, Sophia, when she was interviewed by Tito Boy Abunda on GMA 7’s “Fast Talk.”

As a mom, I get Nadia’s drift. Since Baron and Sophia have been estranged for years, it’s understandable why Nadia is not too keen about Baron coming into the picture now. Both Nadia and Baron are my friends, so I hope that they can restore their friendship someday. Après tout, Sophia is proof that they were part of each other’s journey.

Out of curiosity, I thought of asking Jamie, Baron’s ever-supportive wife and mom of their baby girl, Tali, for her thoughts on the issue. Just like when I interviewed her about Baron’s sobriety journey, the charming Cebuana let her heart do the talking.

Here’s my chat with Jamie:

When did Baron tell you about his daughter?

In 2018, when we were still dating. I was a bit shocked when I found out that Nadia’s the mom because I was still naive about show biz stuff. I was glad that he opened up to me. When I saw Sophia’s photo, I said in jest, “No need for a DNA test.”

How is Baron dealing with the controversy?

I think he was a bit confused about Nadia’s reaction since he did not disclose anything in public. He was caught off guard during the interview with Ogie Diaz, but no names or photos were shown. I told him that he has shown maturity by not retaliating and choosing his peace.

What’s your advice to Baron about the situation?

When Sophia messaged him and agreed to meet last year, I told him to just relax, not get too excited, and keep it private. He’s been longing for that meeting. He admits that he blew the chance to be a father to her in the past, so he was looking forward to having a relationship with his daughter. He is grateful that Sophia was raised well.

What’s your message to Nadia and how would you convince her that Baron is a changed man?

Being a mom myself, I understand that she is concerned about her daughter’s welfare. Since the cat is out of the bag, which they say is an open secret, I guess the people involved can forgive each other and talk peacefully in private. It’s not my job to convince people that Baron’s a changed man.

He has to do the work to be a better person and let his behavior do the talking. I give him credit though because I see a lot of improvement in him. As his wife, I’m here to encourage him. Lastly, Sophia is a smart, beautiful young lady. Let’s spare her the drama, respect her decision and life choices. I pray that everything will fall into place peacefully in God’s perfect time.

Kobe and Kyline at the GMA Gala

At the ritzy GMA Gala, Kobe Paras was Kyline Alcantara’s date. When he was asked to define their relationship, the hardcourt heartthrob said that he and Kyline are just great friends. That sounds like a “show biz answer” to me. So I cornered Kobe’s dad, my cool friend Benjie, for the real score. PBA’s “Tower of Power” (Benjie’s moniker) is also an MVP off the court—”Most Valuable Papa” to Kobe.
Benjie and Kobe Paras –BENJIE PARAS / INSTAGRAM
Here’s what Benjie shared:

We’re living in a show biz world, but I know Kobe. Whenever he’s in a relationship, he’s serious about it and doesn’t fool around. That’s what I always tell him, to always be in love whenever you’re in a relationship. If it doesn’t work out, then you’ll be broken-hearted, but it will heal and make you stronger.

Boto ako whoever he’s with. That’s his life, not mine. Whatever works for them and makes them happy, then I’m happy too.

As for his basketball career, he’s taking a break and I have no idea when he will be playing again but Kobe’s keeping himself in shape.

Hopia-loving celebs

As a hopia lover, I had a feast at the first-ever National Hopia Day held at the Mall of Asia Music Hall. The three-day celebration was spearheaded by Eng Bee Tin (EBT) owner Gerry Chua. The well-loved hopia brand is now on its 112th year.
Isko Moreno (left) and Cory Quirino –CONTRIBUTED
Some of the celebrities who graced the fun event were Cory Quirino, Isko Moreno and Diana Zubiri. Gerry fondly calls Cory the fairy godmother of EBT because after she featured their ube hopia on her show back in the day, their sales boomed.

Diana hoarded all the flavors of hopia which she will bring to Australia, where she’s based now with her hubby, Andy Smith, and their kids. What a “hopi-apiness”-filled day it was!