Queen of All Media Kris Aquino and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos enjoyed a lunch together to celebrate the birthday of renowned fashion designer Michael Leyva on October 24.
The intimate birthday lunch was a rare public appearance for Kris, who has been managing multiple autoimmune conditions since 2022.
READ:Kris Aquino blasts ‘idiotic post’ against her: ‘I am in isolation’
As seen in photos from the event, Kris was seated beside First Lady Liza, who has been a steadfast supporter of Michael’s works. Just recently, she attended his new atelier opening in Makati and wore a piece by the designer to the latest State of the Nation Address.
The two women share familial ties through the First Lady’s aunt, Demetria Sumulong, who married Kris's maternal grandfather, Don Jose “Pepe” Cojuangco.
Demetria Sumulong is the sister-in-law of First Lady Liza’s brother, Manuel Araneta, while her aunt, Rosario Cacho, is married to Kris’s uncle, Pedro Cojuangco.
The event, captured in photos, was shared by host-actor Justin Dizon and makeup artist Patrick Rosas, showcasing the joy of the occasion.
"ladies who lunch," Justin mentioned.
"Celebrate today, it's a special day. Cheers to life @michaelleyva_ 🎉🥂❤️ 😍❤️😍❤️😍," Patrick wrote in his Instagram caption.
Special Envoy to the United Arab Emirates Kathryna Yu-Pimentel also shared a group photo of the birthday guests, sharing that Michael's birthday also served as a gift-giving outreach program.
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In photos shared on social media, the Queen of All Media appeared healthy and radiant. Guests and fans expressed their delight upon seeing her looking well and engaged in the celebration, with netizens commenting to share their happiness.
"This photo brings so much smile. ❤️❤️❤️ KCA looks healthy!! 💛💛💛 God is good," a netizen shared.
"Happy birthday po..good to see madam kris aquino..ganda nya pa din..at sana tuloy tuloy na recovery nya..," another one wrote.
Others could not help but to admire Kris's recent appearance, stating: "Omg so nice to see krissy looking so healthy and rosyyyy 💗"
While netizens could not hide their excitement, some questioned the legitimacy of the photos, since it was on October 17 that she posted about her isolation after a successful surgery.
READ: Kris Aquino gives full support for her son Bimby Yap’s potential singing career
The birthday lunch marked another chapter in the friendship between Kris and Michael, who have supported each other through various milestones. Despite her health challenges, Kris continues to honor her relationships and celebrate the special moments in her life.
READ: LOOK: Kris Aquino spotted at make-up artist's birthday celebration
Last September, Kris along with her sons – Josh and Bimby, were also spotted at the birthday celebration of celebrity hair and makeup artist Jonathan Velasco in San Juan.
READ: Kris Aquino makes first public appearance after years in hiatus
In late February, Kris marked her first public appearance after years of hiatus as she attended the People Asia's People of the Year 2025 in support of the designer, who was one of the awardees.
—By Alyana Cabuhat De Guzman