Veteran actor and former Parañaque mayor Joey Marquez has never shied away from speaking his truth—and in a recent Fast Talk with Boy Abunda interview, he opened up about two things closest to his heart: family and fatherhood.

“We became best friends.”

Joey spoke fondly about his ex-wife Alma Moreno, revealing that despite the end of their marriage, their friendship not only remained intact—but grew stronger through the years.

“Hindi man tayo tumagal ng husband and wife, but we can be friends or best friend,” he recalled telling Alma. Their motivation? Their children. “Na-realize namin pareho, na kailangan i-consider namin ang mga anak namin. Whatever na mag-away kami, maapektuhan ‘yung mga bata.”

Their choice to maintain a strong, respectful relationship is a powerful reminder that love for family can take many forms, and that healing after heartbreak is possible—especially when it’s rooted in compassion and shared responsibility.

“Hindi ko itinuring investment ang mga anak ko.”

As a father to 16 children, Joey also shared his views on a topic that often sparks debate: should children be obligated to care for their parents in old age?

“Para sa akin, wala,” he said firmly. “Hindi ko itinuring investment ang mga anak ko, itinuring ko silang responsibilidad.” He stressed that it’s a parent’s duty to provide a good future for their children—not the other way around.

Joey even made a quiet promise to himself: never to burden his kids in his later years, even in sickness or hardship. “Ipinangako ko sa sarili ko, hindi ako lalapit sa mga anak ko kapag nagkasakit ako—kahit sa kalye pa ako tumira.”

Choosing Peace, Living with Purpose

Joey Marquez’s honesty cuts through societal norms with humility and wisdom. Whether it’s choosing friendship with an ex or parenting without expectations, he lives by a simple philosophy: do the right thing, for the right reasons—especially for the ones you love.

And in doing so, he continues to lead by example—on-screen and off.