AJ Raval on motherhood: ‘Gusto naming maging malaya’

Actress AJ Raval broke down emotionally as she spoke publicly for the first time about her decision to reveal that she has children with actor Aljur Abrenica, saying the choice was rooted in freedom, honesty, and love for her family.

In a candid interview on the vlog of Toni Gonzaga, Raval said years of secrecy had taken a toll on her, especially on her children.

“Kasi gusto na po naming matapos, gusto naming maging malaya. Sa bahay lang namin may mga tao na nandoon, hindi ko kilala, gusto lang nilang maka-capture ng mga bata,” she said.

“Gusto naming silang ipasyal, gusto naming silang bigyan ng malaking birthday celebration.”

Raval said going public was not about stirring controversy but about giving her children a normal life.

“Nagsawa na rin po kakatago. ’Yung huling baby ko paglabas niya, kapag may chance ilalabas ko na,” she added.

A mother’s silent struggles

Behind her public image, Raval revealed that her pregnancies were marked by fear and isolation as she tried to keep everything out of public view.

“Mahirap. Isipin niyo po, hindi po ako nagpapa-check up. Ginagamot ko ang sarili ko, nagse-search ako ng vitamins,” she recalled.

She said she relied on self-research and instinct to protect herself and her babies, an experience she now looks back on with pain and gratitude.

“Okay na, mommy na ang tawag mo”

One of the most emotional moments came when Raval spoke about her eldest child, whom she gave birth to at 17.

Because of their situation, her child used to call her “ate” in public.

“Ngayon po kinausap ko na po siya. Sabi ko, ‘Okay na tawagin mo akong mommy. Okay na tayo,’” she said, her voice breaking.

Raval said the moment symbolized healing for both her and her child, who grew up hiding their truth.

Lessons and faith

After years of scrutiny, Raval said her experiences shaped the values she now wants to instill in her children.

“’Yung ituturo ko po sa kanila ay maging malaya sila at huwag magpapaapekto sa kahit kanino,” she said.

She added that she chooses to focus on her faith rather than public opinion.

“Mas iniisip ko na lang po ang relasyon ko sa Diyos kaysa sa sasabihin ng iba,” she implied.

Facing controversy

Raval also addressed the criticism she faced in connection with Abrenica’s past relationship, saying she felt unfairly judged.

She stood firm in her belief that she did nothing wrong and that her priority has always been her children, maintaining that she did not destroy anyone’s family.

A new chapter

In November, Raval confirmed that she is a mother of five, three of whom she shares with Abrenica. She described the revelation as a turning point.

Now, she said, there is no more hiding or fear.

“Ngayon, mas malaya na ako,” she said.