Kris Aquino Reveals Financial Strain: Son Bimby Returning to Philippines to Work Amid Soaring Medical Costs

In a deeply personal and emotional disclosure, Philippine media icon Kris Aquino revealed in a recent social media post that her son, James “Bimby” Aquino Yap Jr., is returning to the Philippines to begin working, citing their family’s mounting medical expenses as the primary reason. The revelation has triggered an outpouring of public sympathy and concern, as one of the country’s most well-known families opens up about the unseen financial burdens of long-term illness.

Kris, who has been undergoing intensive treatment abroad for multiple autoimmune diseases, admitted that despite being born into privilege and enjoying decades of professional success, her health crisis has drained a significant portion of her wealth. And now, her teenage son is preparing to take on responsibilities most his age would never imagine.

A Family Under Pressure

Kris Aquino, dubbed the “Queen of All Media” in the Philippines, has battled chronic spontaneous urticaria, lupus-like autoimmune conditions, and various other health complications for years. Currently based in the United States for treatment, Kris has frequently shared updates with her fans about her physical struggles, the side effects of her medications, and her day-to-day life under constant medical care.

But her latest message took a different turn—one that focused on the emotional and financial weight carried not just by her, but by her family.

“The medical bills are getting higher, and even with insurance, not everything is covered,” Kris wrote. “Bimby has decided to return to the Philippines to work. As a mom, it breaks my heart, but I understand.”

She went on to express her gratitude for her son’s maturity and sense of responsibility, while also admitting that no mother wants to see her child feel burdened by financial stress at such a young age.

Bimby: From Child Star to Responsible Young Adult

Bimby, now 17, is the son of Kris Aquino and basketball star James Yap. He has grown up in the public eye, appearing in television commercials, talk shows, and public appearances with his famous mother since he was a toddler.

Though he spent recent years quietly studying abroad with his mom, largely avoiding the spotlight, Bimby’s return to the Philippines marks a major shift in his life and potentially, his career.

Kris did not specify what type of work Bimby will pursue, though insiders suggest that offers from film studios, endorsement deals, and digital content platforms are already lined up for the young Aquino.

“Bimby has his father’s confidence and my ability to connect with people,” Kris said. “He’s shy in public, but he’s smart, creative, and very grounded.”

Fans have flooded social media with supportive messages for Bimby, praising his bravery and maturity.

“You’re a good son, Bimby. Many boys your age are still figuring life out. You’re already stepping up for family,” one netizen wrote.

The High Cost of Staying Alive

Kris Aquino’s honesty about her medical costs sheds light on a difficult truth: even the wealthy can be overwhelmed by healthcare expenses—especially when dealing with rare, chronic, and complicated illnesses.

Sources close to the family estimate that Kris’s monthly medical expenses exceed several hundred thousand pesos, factoring in specialist consultations, hospital stays, medications, lab work, and experimental treatments abroad.

Though Kris is known to have multiple endorsements and investments, the length and severity of her illness have clearly placed a financial strain on the family.

“People assume that because I’m famous, I’m fine financially,” Kris wrote. “But fame doesn’t pay hospital bills. I’ve sold assets, I’ve budgeted, but I’m human. I get tired.”

She emphasized that this is not a plea for sympathy but a call for understanding and a reminder that no one is invincible.

“This is my reality. And maybe by sharing it, I can help others feel less ashamed of their own struggles.”

Public Reaction: Support, Empathy, and Calls for Healthcare Reform

As soon as Kris’s post went viral, #Bimby and #PrayForKris began trending on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. Thousands of fans expressed their concern and respect for the Aquino family’s transparency.

Some netizens, however, also used the moment to raise deeper issues about healthcare access in the Philippines, noting that if someone as wealthy and connected as Kris Aquino struggles to pay for medical care, what hope is there for the average Filipino?

“If Kris Aquino is stressed about medical bills, imagine the rest of us,” wrote one user. “We need to fix our healthcare system.”

Others praised Kris for using her platform to break the silence about financial hardship, especially among public figures who are often expected to project success and strength.

“This is what makes Kris different—she tells the truth, even when it’s painful,” a long-time fan posted. “She reminds us that we’re all human.”

A Mother’s Strength and a Son’s Sacrifice

Despite the emotional burden, Kris remains fiercely protective of her son and optimistic about his future.

“I told Bimby he could say no. I told him this isn’t his responsibility. But he said, ‘Mom, I want to help. I want to do this.’ That’s when I knew he was no longer a boy—he had become a man.”

She said Bimby will be surrounded by trusted family and staff in Manila and will continue his education online while pursuing career opportunities.

“I raised him to be strong, to be kind, and to always put family first. Now, he’s showing me what that really means.”

Looking Forward

As Kris continues her treatment in the U.S., she has asked the public to continue praying for her health, her doctors, and for Bimby’s well-being back home. She promised to keep her followers updated and assured them that her spirit remains unbroken.

“I may be sick, but I’m still here. Still fighting. Still a mom. That’s what keeps me going.”

In closing her message, Kris left a line that has since resonated across the country:

“The greatest wealth I have is love—and in that, I am richer than ever.”