It was a simple yet deeply emotional celebration as Bimby Aquino Yap turned 18 on Black Saturday, April 19. Surrounded by his mother, Kris Aquino, and elder brother Josh, the coming-of-age milestone was made even more poignant by a heartbreaking admission: Kris fears it may be the last birthday she gets to celebrate with her son.
Celebrity makeup artist and longtime friend RB Chanco shared intimate photos and a touching birthday message for Bimby on Instagram, revealing Kris’ quiet but emotional confession.
“Your mom once said this might be the last birthday she gets to spend with you, and that stayed with me,” RB wrote in her post. “But I truly believe that as long as you’re by her side, she’ll keep finding the strength to keep going. You’ve given so much of yourself to her, and that love is something truly rare.”
The touching post was accompanied by photos of Bimby lovingly embracing Kris, who remains bedridden as she continues her battle with multiple autoimmune diseases. Also captured was a heartfelt moment between the siblings, with Josh planting a kiss on Bimby’s cheek.
Now 18, Bimby was described by RB as someone who has maintained his kindness and compassion despite growing up under public scrutiny.
“You’ve always had a quiet strength and a gentle heart,” she said. “You’re a gift to your family and to everyone lucky enough to know you.”
The celebration was held at their home and attended by close family and friends. Later, a more intimate gathering was hosted by designer Michael Leyva on Easter Sunday.
Photos from the party showed an outpouring of love: balloons, several birthday cakes brought by well-wishers, and moments of genuine connection among the family—Kris, Bimby, and Josh—cherishing togetherness.
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Kris, who has been living with nine autoimmune conditions—including lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia—previously praised Bimby for being her rock through the pain.
“When you are unconditionally loved, when like me, you are blessed with a son who will do all to lessen his mama’s physical and emotional suffering — hindi ka susuko,” she wrote last March. “Tinitiis ko ‘yung matinding sakit… dahil ang pagmamahal ng anak ay walang katumbas.”
Bimby’s unwavering presence and maturity have earned admiration from many, with netizens lauding his role as the “man of the house” and a source of strength for his family.
On his Instagram Stories, Bimby’s father, professional basketball player James Yap, also posted a tribute, recalling cherished memories with his son to mark the milestone.
RB Chanco closed her message with a note of enduring love and faith in Bimby’s future.
“Bimb, eighteen’s just the beginning. Whatever life brings, I know you’ve got what it takes. Through every season, in every version of your life, I’ll always be here for you.”
As Kris continues her health journey, the celebration stood as a quiet testament to resilience, family, and the kind of love that sustains even in the most uncertain times.
