Mano po, Lola: Happy Gorgeous Grandma Day!

Raise your hand if you’re your grandma’s favorite!

Can you still remember your grandmother’s favorite words of wisdom, her signature dish, or those precious bonding moments you shared with her?

Today is the perfect time to rekindle those memories and make your lola, grandma, mamita, or mommyla feel cherished and celebrated—because 23 July is National Gorgeous Grandma Day!

This day is meant to honor the timeless beauty and inner glow of grandmothers everywhere. More than just a celebration of their looks, it’s about recognizing the profound, positive influence they’ve had on our lives.

Many believe that grandchildren raised by grandmothers often grow up with strong values, deep respect for elders, and a sense of compassion and politeness. In the case of the people on our list, that influence helped shape them into beloved and successful public figures.

Here are a few celebrities who share a special bond with their grandmothers:

1. Marian Rivera

It’s no secret that Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera was raised by her maternal grandmother, Francisca Rivera—or Lola Iska. After her parents separated, her lola took on a strong parental role. Marian has always expressed deep gratitude for her grandmother’s guidance. On one interview, she explained how her lola guided her in her finances.

"Ang lola at mama ko, hindi talaga nagkukulang sa akin ng payo kung paano ko i-invest yung pinagkakakitaan ko, lalo na noong bata pa lang ako sa showbiz."

(My grandmother and mother never failed to give me advice on how to invest my earnings, especially when I was still new in showbiz.)

This year, Marian celebrated Lola Iska’s 96th birthday.

2. Janine Gutierrez

Before Janine Gutierrez made waves with her talent, she was already adored for having two legendary grandmothers: Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales on her father’s side, and the Superstar Nora Aunor on her mother’s side.

Audiences were thrilled whenever Janine appeared on screen with either of her grandmothers. Sadly, both icons passed away in the same year, leaving behind an irreplaceable legacy.

3. Coco Martin

Coco Martin is often seen playing a devoted grandson on TV, but that connection comes from real life. He was raised by his grandmother, Lola Matilde, and even mentions being a “laking lola.” He shared in an interview with Isko Moreno, he said witnessed street life as his lola worked multiple rakets (side jobs) to support their living.

4. Julia Montes

Julia Montes began her showbiz journey as a child, with her Lola Flory by her side every step of the way. Her lola played the role of both mother and father, supporting Julia’s personal life and career with unwavering dedication.

5. Maymay Entrata

“Pinoy Big Brother” alum Maymay Entrata is known for her cheerful and adventurous spirit, and much of that joy comes from the love she received from her grandmother, Mama Ludy. Raised by her lola while her mother worked overseas.

Just recently, she grieved fort he passing of her mother. While still mourning, she needs to be strong for her grandmother who is battling for kidney disease.

Indeed, a grandmother’s love is timeless and unconditional. They may be expected to leave this world ahead of us, but their words, sacrifices, and warmth remain forever etched in our hearts.

So today, don’t forget to say “Mano po, Lola”—and celebrate the beautiful soul who helped shape who you are.