Rustom Padilla Emotionally Admits the Truth About the Child He Had with Carmina Villarroel

It’s no secret to the public that before becoming BB Gandanghari, the former 90s matinee idol Rustom Padilla was once married to actress Carmina Villarroel. They tied the knot in 1994 when Carmina was only 18 years old, while Rustom was 27. Their marriage became controversial after rumors surfaced about Rustom’s sexuality, which he initially denied.

For a few years, Rustom and Carmina seemed to have a good marriage—until Carmina eventually asked for her freedom. She officially separated from Rustom in 1996. Their breakup sparked controversy, especially after rumors emerged about the true reason behind it. Both parties remained silent while the media continued to chase the real story behind their separation. Eventually, Carmina left showbiz temporarily and moved abroad.

There were many speculations at the time, one of which was that Carmina was pregnant with Rustom’s child. However, this was never confirmed. Many people questioned why they separated if Carmina was indeed pregnant. Some claimed that Carmina left Rustom due to issues surrounding his sexuality. Years later, in 2009, Rustom finally came out and revealed his true identity on the reality show Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition, shocking the public as he officially embraced his gender identity and changed his name to BB Gandanghari.

Recently, the issue about Rustom and Carmina allegedly having a child together has resurfaced due to circulating gossip in several entertainment sites. According to reports, the supposed child of Rustom Padilla and Carmina Villarroel is now getting married abroad. Photos have been circulating online of someone who reportedly resembles both Rustom and Carmina, with many saying that the child could become an actor too. However, they chose to raise the child quietly overseas, away from the limelight.

Now, BB Gandanghari has finally broken her silence regarding the issue. According to her, she remained quiet for a long time out of respect for Carmina’s request. But now, she feels it is time to reveal the truth.

“I truly loved Carmina, but what was meant to happen, happened. During that time, I was in a very confused state of mind. I let Carmina go even though I knew her situation then. I asked her to keep everything a secret and let me raise the child myself. She was just beginning to rise to fame, and I didn’t want her name to be tainted. So we took our child far away from showbiz and raised them in peace overseas.”

“We both chose to keep our child away from the noise of showbiz. That was our way of protecting them. A lot of time has passed, and I know this is the right moment to finally introduce our child to the world—to let everyone know that Carmina and I have a child together.”

“Carmina has always loved our child deeply, just as she loves her children with Zoren. I can’t say anything negative about her love as a mother. Even though they were apart, she never lacked in showing care.”

“Although Carmina and I didn’t succeed as a married couple, we proved that we could still be good parents to our child. It was painful for me back then. I have so many ‘what ifs,’ things I wish I had done. But on the other hand, I’m happy with what Carmina has achieved as an actress.”

“To our child—I know, even without saying it, that I fell short as a parent. But now that you’re starting your own family, I know you’ll be a good husband and father. Life goes on, my child. Your mother and I love you very, very much. You know that.”