Gloria Romero, the legendary actress who graced Philippine cinema for decades, was more than just a screen icon to her family. In an exclusive interview during the her wake, her daughter, Maritess Gutierrez, and grandson, Chris, shared intimate glimpses into the life of the beloved “Movie Queen” beyond the glitz and glamor of showbiz.

Their home, Maritess recalled, was always filled with laughter and love. “Kasama namin araw-araw. Malapit kami (We were always together) We are really close. I would tell her everything. ‘Di siya nagkukulang magbigay (She always shared) advice. Most of all we will miss her jokes. Tatlo lang kami sa house, we have fun, masaya kami,” she fondly reminisced.

During times when they have “tampuhan” like all mothers and daughters go through, Maritess shared a favorite moment: “I always write her letters and I get the portions wet so when she asked why I tell her it’s my tears and I cried, then she will hug me,” she recalls.

“For me, I think God was the one who gave my mom to me: to take care of me. I think it was really planned. It was our destiny also for Chris. It was all God’s plan,” Maritess shared, reflecting on the profound bond she shared with her mother.

The movie queen’s only daughter also added: “May party na sila sa heaven magkakasama na sila doon (There is a party in heaven. They are together there): Susan, Amalia, Dolphy, the whole gang.”

This sentiment was echoed by Chris, who described his grandmother as the “light of their home.” “Naalala ko (I remember) our last conversation she said ‘Matanda na ako, wala na ako mabigay lahat nabigay ko na’ (I am old. I have no more to give as I have given everything). And I just said, ‘Lola dami mo na nabigay (you have already given so much). Until the last moment she was trying to give. She gives everything. You can see it that’s why we love her,” he recalled.

Chris emphasized that while Romero will be remembered for her iconic roles and her undeniable talent, her impact extended far beyond the silver screen. “The way she carries herself in work ethic. She is such a skilled actress. But the things people say is she is so nice, she is always on time, she knows her lines everyone’s lines, she gives advice, she is there for everybody,” he explained.

“Yes she’s a spoiler and I’m a spoiled grandchild,” Chris added with a smile. “She is the best lola in the world.”

Both Maritess and Chris expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and fans.

“We are happy to share her with everyone,” Chris said.

“Thank you at nandito kayo,” Maritess added.