There is no denying that actress and singer Karla Estrada is one of the most well-loved figures on this side of Southeast Asian showbiz. She has enjoyed a three-decade career and is most known for her role as the “Queen Mother” of former “Teen King” Daniel Padilla and Lella Ford, who secured a spot in the ultimate group of Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition 2.0. She was also one of the original “Momshie” hosts of Magandang Buhay, where she reigned in the early morning slot for six years. And now, she has taken on a new role and responsibility as the “Cargo Queen.” Indeed, her life and resilience as a single mother have endeared her even more to the public.

‘Queen Mother’

It was Kris Aquino who christened Estrada as the “Queen Mother” by virtue of Daniel Padilla being called the “Teen King” during the height of his partnership with “Teen Queen” Kathryn Bernardo.

“I embraced it,” said Estrada. “I am forever thankful to Kris for branding me as such. I believe that the title perfectly captures my journey — the struggles and successes of being a single mother and a woman. The burdens I carried, the trials I faced, my survival instincts, and the sacrifices I made — I was able to overcome all of it. I thank God for always being there for me and for my loved ones, of course. Ever since I have been called that, I have considered it a great honor and a responsibility.”

Estrada explained the responsibility that comes with the title: “It symbolizes me as a woman who is resilient, nurturing and empowered. People now see me as an inspiration to many mothers, so I cannot take it lightly. And I am also not going to use it to throw my weight around.”

‘Momshie’

All of her children — Jose Carlito, Daniel, Margaret and Carmella — share a close relationship with Estrada. Being a mom and embracing motherhood is her biggest role to date and her most challenging career. She often shares that it has not been easy, but she would never trade being a “momshie” for anything.

“Being a mother or a momshie is important to me,” Estrada said. “It defines who I am. It is my reason for being. It is proof of my capacity to love and give unconditional love to my children. My kids are my sources of pride and my legacy. Their personal and career successes — gusto kong sabihin (I just want to say) — I must be doing something right.”

“Salamat sa Panginoon at maswerte ako sa mga anak ko (I thank God that I am lucky to have them). They are all intelligent and emotionally strong. I raised them to stand their ground, think independently, and keep our family harmonious. We were able to do that because in our home, honesty, trust and communication have always been given premium importance. I did not only teach these values — they saw that I practice forgiveness. They experienced this reality because I have maintained good relationships with their respective fathers for their sake and emotional well-being.”

‘Cargo Queen’

“For 55 years, W Express has focused on delivering reliable service that customers can depend on. We understand how important every package or document is to the people who entrust them to us. Karla Estrada represents the warmth and authenticity that resonate with our customers. Her experience reflects what W Express has always aimed to provide — dependable service delivered with care,” said W Express chairman and president Dawn Feliciano.

She was chosen to help make the company a more visible, lifestyle-oriented and customer-centric brand. Estrada’s experience with W Express’ KVAC (Korean Visa Application Center) service, which she availed of due to her son Daniel’s acting recognition — with the awards ceremony held in Seoul — also strengthened the partnership.

For Estrada, her latest title holds special meaning. “It is my most favorite now because, for me, it is a metaphor for what you can and must do for your family. Since becoming a mother, my children have been the biggest cargo I have carried. From my firstborn until now — and I know until forever — I am loving every minute of being a mother.”

“I personally chose the title,” Estrada further explained when asked about it. “It resonates with all parents who bear the weight of providing for and supporting their loved ones. Ayokong ma-misinterpret (I don’t want to be misinterpreted). What I am saying is that this cargo is not a burden or hardship, but an inspiration. For parents like me, we are motivated to give the best to our children.”

“Queen Mother,” “Momshie” and “Cargo Queen” — Karla Estrada carries all these titles well. She has become living proof that dreams do come true.