Jessy Mendiola Is Pregnant! The Manzano Family Celebrates a New Life—and Vilma Santos’ Reaction Stole the Show

In a wave of joyful celebration that swept across Philippine showbiz, beloved couple Jessy Mendiola and Luis Manzano have announced the long-awaited news: they’re expecting their first child together. And while fans were thrilled, it was veteran actress and former Batangas Governor Vilma Santos—Luis’s iconic mother—whose emotional reaction brought the internet to tears.

A Surprise Worth Waiting For

The announcement came in the form of a touching vlog uploaded to Jessy’s YouTube channel titled “Telling Our Families About Our Baby Peanut (Reactions).” The 15-minute video captured the private, candid moments as Jessy and Luis surprised their closest loved ones with the pregnancy reveal—each reaction more heartwarming than the last.

But it was Vilma Santos’ response that instantly went viral.

As Jessy and Luis handed her the small gift box containing the baby’s ultrasound photo, Santos opened it with curious delight. Her face lit up in disbelief before the tears began to well. “Totoo ba ito?” she asked, trembling with joy. Within seconds, the Star for All Seasons embraced her son and daughter-in-law, sobbing and laughing at the same time.

“I’ve been praying for this,” she whispered.

The Blessing They’ve Been Hoping For

Jessy and Luis, who tied the knot in February 2021 in an intimate ceremony, have always been candid about their desire to build a family. Jessy previously opened up about her health concerns and the emotional journey of waiting for the right time. For the actress, this pregnancy represents more than just new life—it’s a hard-earned blessing.

“Baby Peanut is a miracle,” Jessy shared in the vlog, rubbing her small baby bump as Luis looked on with visible pride. “We prayed for this, we waited for this, and now it’s finally happening.”

Vilma Santos: A Grandmother at Last

For Vilma Santos, who has lived a life in the public eye—from silver screen stardom to political power—the role of “Lola” might just be her most meaningful yet. Friends close to the Manzano family revealed that Vilma had long dreamed of becoming a grandmother. In fact, she had a nursery ready at home—just in case.

“It’s every parent’s dream to see their children happy and starting their own families,” Vilma said in a follow-up statement. “I couldn’t be more excited. I can’t wait to spoil my apo!”

Her outpouring of love and support warmed the hearts of fans across generations, who praised her sincerity and the close bond she shares with Jessy.

Love, Light, and a Little “Peanut”

As the Manzano family prepares for their newest chapter, Jessy and Luis have affectionately nicknamed the baby “Peanut”—a nod to the tiny, growing miracle inside her womb. The couple has been sharing glimpses of their journey through pregnancy with fans, promising to keep their followers updated on the coming months.

Celebrities, fans, and even political allies of the Manzanos flooded social media with well wishes. “Finally! Congratulations Jessy and Luis! So happy for you both!” wrote actress Angel Locsin, a longtime friend of Luis. Others echoed sentiments of joy and hope, calling the baby a “ray of light” during these uncertain times.

A Story That Captivated a Nation

In a world often plagued by controversy, Jessy and Luis’s joyful announcement served as a reminder of the beauty of family, patience, and divine timing. More than a celebrity pregnancy, it’s a story of perseverance, unconditional love, and the priceless joy of a new beginning.

And if Vilma Santos’ tearful smile is anything to go by, the little “Peanut” is already the most loved baby in Philippine showbiz.