Artist Isabel Santos, the girlfriend of actor John Lloyd Cruz, has sparked concern among netizens after deactivating her Instagram account following a series of cryptic posts that quickly caught attention online.
Among the posts that drew attention was a personal message where Isabel appeared to open up about her frustrations surrounding birthdays, admitting that the occasion has not been a happy experience for her for several years.
“I give up. Birthdays are just a day in a year you force to feel something. I’ve never had a good birthday for over six years and I don’t know why I keep trying,” she wrote.
“I’d like to stop this charade,” she added in the caption.
In another upload, Isabel posted a reflective quote centered on turning 36 years old and learning to embrace self-worth, personal growth, and trusting the path ahead.
"Happy birthday week, Isabel Santos," the post read.
“36 is the year you start accepting compliments without embarrassment. This year your task is to believe in the promise of your own life. Say no to sh*t you hate. Remember what it feels like to roll around in your own dreams. Go to the limits of your longing. Leave the door open for people to walk through. As you journey into the next year, say, ‘Here I am,’ and listen closely as the universe responds, ‘So glad you are.’,” it continued.
Another post that quickly intrigued followers showed what appeared to be a marble bench engraved with the phrase: “Men don’t protect you anymore.”
Following the cryptic posts, Isabel’s Instagram account has become unavailable since June 18.
The combination of emotionally charged posts and her sudden disappearance from Instagram led many netizens to wonder what may have prompted the deactivation.
Just earlier this month, Isabel and John Lloyd had been publicly sharing happier moments together. The couple recently traveled to Boracay alongside the actor's former partner Ellen Adarna and several loved ones.
The trip earned praise online after netizens noticed the warm dynamic shared among everyone, with many appreciating the modern family relationship they appeared to maintain.
During the getaway, Ellen even shared a clip showing John Lloyd singing while smiling affectionately toward Isabel, a moment many found sweet.
Isabel was likewise seen bonding with Elias, John Lloyd’s son with Ellen, appearing comfortable spending time with the family during the vacation.
At the time, Ellen also publicly expressed her appreciation for Isabel, describing her as the “best stepmom”.