Claudine Barretto expressed her delight in reconnecting with her niece, Julia Barretto, during a recent gathering honoring star-maker Johnny Manahan.
The occasion held special significance for Claudine, who described it as an opportunity for them to spend quality time together.
In a pocket press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Claudine shared her happiness at the chance to catch up with Julia.
She mentioned that despite occasional encounters at family gatherings, they had not been able to have meaningful conversations. Claudine cherished the moments they shared during the event, emphasizing the significance of their hugs and kisses.
“I am really, really very happy. We see each other but only for a few times. The last we saw each other was [in] Zsazsa Zaturnnah. It was always just fast during family gatherings. She would just kiss me and greet [me]. But we would not be able to catch up,” Claudine shared. “That night, it was the time we are able to really spend time. I really missed it. The hugs, the kisses.”
Reflecting on family dynamics, Claudine clarified that her older sister, Marjorie, never hindered Julia from maintaining contact. However, she acknowledged the complexities within their family relationships, understanding the potential discomfort Julia might feel given the existing tensions between her and Marjorie.
“My sister never stopped her. But probably because she knows there is a tension between my older sister Marjorie and I. We are civil, but of course, that is her mom. She probably isn’t comfortable, Marjorie and I are not comfortable,” she explained.