In a candid interview, acclaimed actress Claudine Barretto opened up about her long-held personal struggles and ongoing rift with her older siblings. Speaking with veteran entertainment journalist Jobert Sucaldito and co-host Chaps Manansala on their YouTube program, Claudine shared raw truths about family conflict, loneliness, and the burden of being misunderstood.
“Mag-isa lang ako.”
With tears in her eyes, Claudine didn’t hold back as she shared the emotional weight of navigating life and motherhood without support from her own family.
“I’m sorry sa fans ko that we have to wash our dirty linen in public, but I have to — for my children’s sake. Mag-isa lang ako. Wala akong katuwang.”
Known for her strength and grace on screen, Claudine allowed the public a rare glimpse into her vulnerability off-camera. She spoke of silent responsibilities, misunderstood sacrifices, and the pain of being judged by those closest to her.
“Wala akong utang na loob sa inyo.”
One of the most striking moments came when Claudine addressed her siblings directly, confronting what she described as a lack of appreciation for the help she had extended through the years.
“Wala akong utang na loob sa inyo pero kayo, malaki ang utang sa akin… ’Pag tumulong ka, hindi ka dapat nanunumbat. Pero ‘pag nakalimot ka at nananakot ka, huwag mong hintayin pabayarin ko sa’yo.”
Her words reflected a familiar theme in fractured family dynamics — the tension between giving, receiving, and the expectation of gratitude. Claudine emphasized that help, when given freely, should never be used against someone, but also shouldn't be forgotten.
“Respect is earned.”
In what may be her most powerful statement, Claudine clarified why she no longer holds the same regard for certain family members.
“Yes po, wala po akong respeto. Respect is earned.”
This admission underscored the complexity of her pain — not driven purely by resentment, but by a yearning to be understood, valued, and respected beyond bloodlines and family roles.