Does Kris Aquino Have a “Type”? Netizens Spot Striking Resemblance Between Fiancé Mel Sarmiento and Her Exes James Yap, Joey Marquez

Manila, Philippines – Social media has once again erupted with chatter after eagle-eyed netizens pointed out what seems to be an uncanny resemblance between Mel Sarmiento, fiancé of Kris Aquino, and two of her former partners — James Yap and Joey Marquez.

While Kris Aquino herself has not commented on the comparison, fans and curious observers alike are speculating: Does the “Queen of All Media” have a type?

A Closer Look at the “Look-Alikes”

Mel Sarmiento, a former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary and seasoned politician, has been described as having an “executive aura,” clean-cut features, and a commanding yet soft-spoken demeanor.

These traits, according to fans, mirror some aspects of:

James Yap, a professional basketball player known for his tall build, calm confidence, and quiet strength — someone who kept a low profile despite being married to a media powerhouse.

Joey Marquez, a former actor and politician who was also known for his charisma, wit, and his tumultuous but memorable relationship with Aquino in the early 2000s.

Photos comparing all three men have been circulating online, with some netizens joking that Kris seems drawn to a certain “vibe”: neat haircut, smart-casual dresser, authoritative but charming demeanor.

Is It Just Coincidence — Or a Pattern?

Relationship experts weigh in, saying that people are often subconsciously drawn to partners who share certain traits — whether physical, emotional, or behavioral.

“People develop patterns, especially after strong emotional experiences,” says a Filipino relationship psychologist. “In Kris Aquino’s case, it may not be about looks per se, but about the type of partner she perceives as strong yet stable — someone who can complement her very public lifestyle.”

The Public Weighs In: From Curiosity to Criticism

While many fans find the resemblance funny or interesting, some critics have warned against reading too much into appearances. Others, however, speculate whether Kris is subconsciously seeking closure or familiarity through these similar personalities.

One viral tweet even joked:

“All three could play each other in a Kris Aquino biopic. Just give them the same glasses and barong!”

Kris Aquino Remains Silent — But Fans Continue the Debate

As of this writing, Kris Aquino has not directly addressed the comparisons. She has been focused on her health journey and her engagement with Sarmiento, whom she has described as “kind, honest, and peaceful.”

While the internet debates the possible look-alike theory, it’s clear that Kris Aquino’s love life — past and present — will always spark interest, especially when familiar faces seem to repeat in new chapters.

A Look Back: Relationship Timeline of Kris Aquino and Mel Sarmiento

The Queen of All Media, Kris Aquino, is ready to settle down. She needs a man who can look after her and her two boys, Bimby and Josh. Apart from this, he needs to have the grit to navigate through her high profile life. Being both an Aquino and a Cojuangco is no easy task. Many men have stepped up to the plate for a chance at Kris’ hand. Namely, they are: Robin Padilla, Philipp Salvador, Vic Sotto, Joey Marquez, Mark Lapid, James Yap, Herbert Bautista, and Mel Senen Sarmiento.

 

Kris Aquino has created a name for herself, one that shines apart from her famous family, and raised two kids on her own. Recent years have seen her fight her autoimmune condition. For all her hard work and abundance of natural charm, she’s amassed 4.8 million followers on Instagram and has fans from all over the globe. She is, no doubt, beloved by the people.

 

Last year, she announced her engagement to Mel Senen Sarmiento, ex-DILG secretary and former Congressman. Their relationship came as a surprise to many of her adoring fans. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, because she recently announced their break up on Instagram with receipts of what went down. Don’t know the full story? Here’s a relationship timeline of Kris Aquino and Mel Senen Sarmiento’s relationship.

September 2020 to February 2021 – Speculations

In her previous posts, Kris Aquino never once mentioned Mel’s name. Her mystery man was kept a mystery. But, that didn’t stop the public from speculating. Many suspected at a relationship with Willie Revillame, Mark Leviste, and even former suitor Herbet Bautista. She was even seen on a dinner date with Leviste at a restaurant in Makati.

August 2021 – Social Media Hinting

Kris Aquino posted on her Instagram a birthday greeting for Mel Senen Sarmiento. She captioned the post, “Thank you for coming into my life… Happy birthday!” The day after Kris posts a photo of Bimby holding a bouquet of flowers from a mystery man. She mentions that Bimby approves of her special someone.

Throughout 2021 – Social Media White Knight

There was always one name that stood out in the comments section of Kris Aquino’s Instagram posts: Mel Senen Sarmiento. The former congressman was quick to defend Kris from online haters. He would reply back to them via comments. This gave people more reason to speculate on whether or not the two were seeing each other.

October 24, 2021 – Wedding Bells

A month after the mystery postings of Kris on social media, she finally reveals her mystery man to the world. The Queen of All Media announced her engagement to the ex-DILG secretary. She posted a video of them together with the caption, “To my best friend and the man I said yes to spending the rest of my life with, thank you for as Bimb said loving me for me, with no agenda, and for being just an overall good and patient man. It’s unreal how much more calm and peaceful I feel now that you’re here.”

October 2021 to January 2022 – Time of Silence

The couple was mum during this period. After Typhoon Odette struck, Kris was quick to help out the victims alongside Angel Locsin. On the social media front, she’d been sporadically posting brand endorsements, including a tasteful shower photo. With regards to matters of the heart, nothing was said about the preparations for the wedding

January 3, 2022 – The Breakup

Kris Aquino broke her silence by first removing photos of Mel Senen Sarmiento on her social media. Then, she released a public statement about their split. She even posted the breakup text Mel sent her. According to the posted messages, Mel decided to break up with Kris because he could no longer live inside a bubble with her. Kris ended the post by asking everyone to give her time to heal from her autoimmune condition and the breakup.