Actress-dancer Maja Salvador has shared her reasons for keeping her daughter Maria’s face private from the public, citing security concerns and online risks, especially in the age of AI and social media exploitation.
During a press conference held at Solaire Resort North on March 26 for her contract renewal with Beautéderm Corporation as an ambassador for BlancPro, Salvador explained that she and husband Rambo Nuñez have chosen to protect their child’s identity.
“Hindi ko po masagot kung kailan ko siya ipe-face reveal… natatakot ako na gamitin [ang picture niya], lalo na ngayon na may AI. May mga videos na ipinapadala somewhere, ang dami, ‘di ba?” Salvador said.
The actress also expressed gratitude to fans and brands that have respected their decision and continue to support her daughter as an endorser, despite only sharing photos showing Maria’s back, side profile, or feet. She also commended strangers and fans for honoring their request to refrain from taking or posting unauthorized photos of their daughter in public.
Salvador also revealed that her decision was shaped by witnessing other celebrity children become targets of harsh online criticism. “May mga perfect na tao na kung maka-bash ay wagas. Inosenteng bata tapos iba-bash? ‘Wag na lang,” she said firmly.
Maja described her daughter Maria as a blessing who brought profound changes to her life. “Ang laking parte ni Maria sa kung sino ako ngayon kasi kinumpleto niya ‘yung pagkababae ko,” she shared, noting that her priorities and life decisions now revolve around her child.
She also admitted experiencing “mom guilt” during her preparation for her return to ‘ASAP’. “Na-miss ko rin magsayaw, pero sobrang guilty ako kasi six hours ko siyang iniiwan. Totoo pala talaga ‘yun,” she said.
Despite initially wanting to take a break from work to focus on motherhood, Maja revealed she will soon be returning to acting—starting with a TV5 project. She and Rambo agreed to delay plans for a second child until her commitments are fulfilled.
Beautéderm CEO and President Rhea Anicoche-Tan, who is also Maria’s godmother, voiced her full support for Maja’s decision and praised her for being a loving mother and dedicated brand ambassador.
“Maja’s pure heart is my favorite thing about her… I believe she is an encouragement to any woman who wishes to start a family,” said Tan, highlighting Maja’s professionalism and consistent efforts in promoting the brand.
Maja returned the love, saying she draws strength from Tan, especially during moments of postpartum struggles. “She really boosts my morale. Isa siya sa mga taong nakakausap ko noong may pinagdadaanan ako,” Maja said.
Salvador admitted gaining weight during her pregnancy and joked that she’s now on a strict diet in preparation for upcoming campaigns. “Sabi ko nga kay Ma’m Rei, hangin na lang ang kinakain ko!” she laughed.
Even without a full face reveal, Maja shared that many brands have already expressed interest in Maria. While she remains cautious, she appreciates the trust and patience of supporters.