John Estrada talks fatherhood, love, and lessons learned

Veteran actor John Estrada is once again in the spotlight — not for a new teleserye or film, but for his heartfelt reflections on life, love, and fatherhood. In recent interviews, the seasoned actor opened up about two deeply personal topics: the ongoing rumors linking his daughter Kaila Estrada to Daniel Padilla, and his own journey of self-discovery after marrying young.

“It’s Not My Story to Tell”

When asked about the speculations surrounding Kaila and Daniel’s supposed relationship, John handled the question with grace and respect. He made it clear that he values his daughter’s privacy, saying, “It’s not my story to tell.” he said in a recent interview with Dolly Ann Carvajals Vlog

Still, he did not hold back in expressing his admiration for Daniel Padilla. Having worked with Daniel and Kathryn Bernardo in the 2013 film Must Be Love, John shared that he has always been a fan of the actor’s humility and professionalism.

“In fairness kay DJ, I’m a fan. Sobrang respetuoso ‘yun. Kahit superstar siya, pakumbaba at marespeto,” he said, praising Daniel’s character and giving credit to Karla Estrada for raising her children well.

When asked if he would approve of Daniel for Kaila, John laughed and simply said, “Hindi ko po alam. Bahala na sila, malalaki na sila.” With that, he chose to leave the matter in their hands — a father’s quiet gesture of trust and respect for his daughter’s independence.

Looking Back: “I Never Really Pleased Myself”

In a separate interview, John also looked back on the choices that defined his youth — particularly his decision to marry actress Janice de Belen when he was just 18 years old.

“I was 18 years old. I didn’t know much,” he admitted, recalling how his early marriage became both a blessing and a heavy responsibility. “People would say, ‘Oh, babaero, nang-iwan ng pamilya yan.’ But what they don’t know is, I was the only man who stood by Janice. I’m not bragging about it — that’s just the truth.”

John acknowledged that marrying young came with challenges. “Saan ka nakakita na nag-asawa ng 18, di ba? That caught up on me,” he said. While he has no regrets, he also confessed that the experience cost him much of his own self-exploration.

“I can’t say I was really okay. I did miss out on a lot of things,” he admitted. “I just woke up one day and realized I never really pleased myself.”

A New Chapter

Now in a more reflective stage of life, John Estrada is learning to slow down. After years of living for others — as a young husband, a father, and a public figure — he is finally allowing himself the space to breathe and to heal.

“I’m taking things slowly,” he said, hinting at a newfound sense of peace. “After everything, I’m just learning to care for myself too.”

From devoted father to humbled man, John Estrada stands today as a portrait of experience — one who has known the weight of responsibility, the pain of misunderstanding, and the quiet redemption that comes with growth.