A Mother’s Goodbye: Kris Aquino Tearfully Bids Farewell to Her Sons as She Flies to the U.S. for Critical Treatment

In a moment that tugged at the nation’s heartstrings, Queen of All Media Kris Aquino was seen in tears as she bid an emotional farewell to her two beloved sons, Joshua and Bimby, before boarding a flight to the United States for another round of intensive medical treatment. The bittersweet scene played out quietly, yet powerfully—reminding Filipinos once more of Kris’s ongoing, painful battle for her life.

The emotional departure, which took place at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) under tight security, saw Kris—visibly frail but still dignified—embracing her sons tightly. Witnesses described the moment as “heart-shattering,” with the 53-year-old celebrity seen whispering messages of love and strength into her sons’ ears. Bimby, ever the protective son, was seen trying to hold back his tears, while Josh clung tightly to his mother’s hand.

“Fighting for My Life”

Kris Aquino has been candid about her health struggles, revealing in past interviews and social media updates that she is battling a rare and serious autoimmune condition. Her doctors in the United States have insisted on aggressive treatment—treatment not currently available in the Philippines. “I need to do this to survive,” Kris admitted in a tearful Instagram post just hours before her flight. “I’m fighting for my life. I owe it to my children to try everything.”

She also revealed that she is scheduled for a series of experimental treatments and immune therapies, which she hopes will finally bring her relief after years of chronic pain, severe allergies, and complications that have baffled even top specialists.

A Mother’s Greatest Pain

More than the physical pain, however, it is the emotional toll of separation that seems to weigh heaviest on Kris. Her two sons have been her rock—her reason to keep fighting. “It breaks my heart to leave them behind,” she wrote. “Every second I’m away, I’ll be thinking of them. But if this is the only way to get better… then I’ll endure it all for them.”

Friends close to the Aquino family confirmed that arrangements have been made to ensure that Josh and Bimby will be cared for by trusted relatives and longtime household staff during Kris’s treatment abroad. Still, the absence of their mother will no doubt be felt deeply by the boys, who have rarely been separated from her, especially in recent years.

A Life in the Spotlight—and Now in the Shadows of Uncertainty

Kris Aquino, daughter of democracy icon Cory Aquino and former President Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., has spent her life under the scrutiny of the public eye. From her early showbiz days to her reign as the “Queen of All Media,” she has lived through intense highs and painful lows. But even with all the glitz and drama that have defined her life, it is this chapter—the fight for her health—that many say has shown the true strength of the woman behind the headlines.

“She’s a warrior,” said a close friend who requested anonymity. “But even warriors get tired. Kris has been in pain for years, and yet she continues to smile for her fans, for her children, for the people who look up to her. She’s one of the bravest people I know.”

Prayers and Love Flood Social Media

As news of her departure spread, social media platforms lit up with an outpouring of support. The hashtag #PrayForKris quickly began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands of netizens posting messages of hope, strength, and admiration. Celebrities, politicians, and even former critics sent in words of encouragement.

“You are not alone in this fight, Kris,” actress Angel Locsin wrote. “You are loved. You are prayed for.”

Senator Risa Hontiveros also extended her support, tweeting, “Kris Aquino is more than a media personality. She is a mother, a daughter, a symbol of resilience. We pray for her healing.”

A Message to Her Sons

In her final message before boarding the plane, Kris left a heartfelt video for her sons, posted on her Instagram story. “Josh, Bimby—I love you more than life itself. Be strong for me. Be good. Be brave. Mommy will come back. I promise I’ll do everything I can to come back healthy.”

The video ended with Kris holding a rosary close to her heart, her lips barely moving as she mouthed a silent prayer.

As the plane carrying Kris Aquino ascends into the clouds, it carries with it not just a woman seeking healing, but a mother determined to defy the odds—for her children, for her future, and for the millions who continue to believe in her strength.

Get well soon, Kris. The nation is behind you.