Kris Aquino Wanted James Yap to Take Custody of Bimby—But He Allegedly Refused

Manila, Philippines — A new chapter has emerged in the complex story of Kris Aquino and James Yap, and it’s one that has left the public both emotional and puzzled. Reports have surfaced revealing that Kris Aquino, currently battling multiple autoimmune diseases, recently expressed her desire for her ex-husband James Yap to take custody of their son Bimby. However, what shocked many is the alleged refusal by Yap to accept this responsibility.

A Mother’s Difficult Decision

Sources close to the Aquino family reveal that due to Kris’s declining health, she has been preparing her affairs carefully—including arrangements for her youngest son, James “Bimby” Aquino Yap Jr. While her eldest son Joshua is already an adult with special needs being cared for by close relatives, Bimby remains a minor. Concerned about his future, Kris reportedly reached out to James Yap to discuss the possibility of shared custody or even full parental responsibility in the event of her health worsening.

“Kris didn’t make this decision lightly,” said a source close to the family. “It was out of maternal love and concern. She wanted to do what she thought was right for Bimby—to be with his father if something happened to her.”

James Yap’s Alleged Refusal

The twist? James Yap allegedly declined. According to sources, the former basketball star either expressed hesitation or outright refused the arrangement. While Yap has yet to release a public statement, insiders claim that he was “not prepared” for full-time parental responsibilities and cited personal and professional commitments.

This revelation has sparked a flurry of reactions online, with many netizens expressing sympathy for Bimby and admiration for Kris Aquino’s attempt to ensure her son’s well-being—even if it meant turning to someone she had a strained relationship with.

Public Reaction: Sympathy and Frustration

On social media, Filipinos have voiced a mixture of emotions. Some commended Kris for setting aside past differences for the sake of her son. Others directed criticism toward James Yap for allegedly turning down a chance to be present in his child’s life.

“Say what you will about Kris Aquino, but she’s always put her kids first,” one user tweeted. “If this is true, then James Yap has a lot of explaining to do.”

Others urged the public not to judge too quickly, pointing out that co-parenting is complex and that legal and emotional factors may be at play.

Kris Stays Silent—for Now

Kris Aquino has not made an official statement confirming the details of this report, though she has posted cryptic messages on Instagram in recent weeks about motherhood, legacy, and “being at peace with hard decisions.”

Known for her honesty and transparency, it is expected that Kris may eventually address the matter when she is ready. In the meantime, she remains focused on her ongoing medical treatments in the United States, while continuing to communicate with fans and followers through carefully chosen updates.

The Bigger Picture

This development adds another layer to the already complicated relationship between Kris Aquino and James Yap. Since their high-profile separation in 2010, the two have had little public contact, and Bimby has largely grown up under the care and guidance of his mother.

Whether or not the situation between father and son will evolve in the coming months remains to be seen. But for now, the question remains: if not James Yap, then who will step up for Bimby if Kris Aquino’s health deteriorates?