‘Huwag Mo ‘Kong Iwan’ star Tom Rodriguez embraces fatherhood and a new beginning
Tom Rodriguez, known for his memorable roles onscreen, has recently stepped into a new role in his personal life: fatherhood. The actor, who is set to star in the upcoming film “Huwag Mo ‘Kong Iwan,” surprised many by revealing he is now a proud father to a four-month-old son named Korben.
This revelation came during the film’s press conference last November 12 at the Manila Hotel, where Rodriguez, beaming with joy, shared his newfound happiness with the world. “I’m a new dad to a very happy, healthy baby boy. I’ve never experienced happiness at this level,” he confessed, his words reflecting the profound impact his son has had on his life. “He’s my constant source of inspiration right now.”
A Journey of Healing and New Love
This joyous news comes after a period of personal challenges for Rodriguez. In June, his ex-wife, actress Carla Abellana, announced their divorce. The couple, who had been together for seven years and married in 2021, separated in June 2022. Following the split, Rodriguez took time to “recover” in the United States, returning to the Philippines earlier this year with a renewed sense of self.
It was during this time of healing and rediscovery that he met his current partner, a non-showbiz woman with whom he has been with for the past two years. Rodriguez describes his partner as someone who had no prior knowledge of his celebrity status, offering him a sense of normalcy and genuine connection.
Protecting His Private Life
While Rodriguez openly shared his happiness as a father, he emphasized his desire to maintain a “clear boundary” between his public and private life. He chose not to disclose further details about his partner and their son, prioritizing their privacy and well-being.
“I’m very proud, I’m very happy. I love to work, I’m very thankful for it, and I love the industry. Para sa kanya din yun. It’s something I want to pass down to him. I want to teach him to have proper boundaries between your main life and your professional life.”
This desire to protect his son extends to his past. Rodriguez expressed his unwillingness to deny his son’s existence, stating that he wouldn’t want Korben to grow up feeling like he was ever a secret. This sentiment underscores the actor’s commitment to transparency and authenticity, both in his personal and public life.
“Huwag Mo ‘Kong Iwan”: A New Perspective on Love
The title of Rodriguez’s upcoming film, “Huwag Mo ‘Kong Iwan,” (Don’t Leave Me) takes on a new meaning in light of his recent revelations. When asked by Rose Garcia-Fabregas to whom he would say these words, Rodriguez’s answer was immediate and heartfelt: his son and his partner.
“Kasi sila yung inspiration ko talaga. At kahit malayo man kami sa isa’t isa ngayon, sana huwag nila akong iwan,” he shared, his words laced with emotion. This sentiment seems to mirror the film’s narrative, which centers on two ex-lovers who reunite amidst challenging circumstances.
A Bright Future Ahead
Fatherhood has brought a renewed sense of purpose and joy to Rodriguez’s life. He shared that he feels younger and more energized than ever before, a testament to the transformative power of love and family.
This new chapter in his life coincides with his return to the screen. He is currently starring in the GMA Afternoon Prime series “Lilet Matias: Attorney-At-Law,” which airs Monday to Saturday at 2:30 p.m. after “It’s Showtime.” He is also eagerly anticipating the release of “Huwag Mo ‘Kong Iwan,” directed by Joel Lamangan and co-starring Rhian Ramos and JC De Vera. The film, which explores themes of love, loss, and second chances, is set to open in Philippine cinemas on November 27.
The romantic drama film is written by Eric Ramos and produced by BenTria Productions.
“Huwag Mo ‘Kong Iwan” tells the tale of two former lovers who find their way back to each other, only to be torn apart once again when one becomes entangled in the dangerous world of human trafficking and illegal drug trade. This intense drama features a talented cast, including Rita Avila, Pinky Amador, Emilio Garcia, Nella Dizon, Jim Pebanco, Lloyd Samartino, Simon Ibarra, Tanya Gomez, Marcus Madrigal, Felixia Crysten, Ricci Jereza-Chan, King David, Panteen Palanca, and Mygz Molino.
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With a thriving career and a newfound love for his family, Tom Rodriguez is embracing the future with open arms. His story is a reminder that even amidst life’s challenges, there is always room for growth, healing, and new beginnings.
