Veteran actor Leo Martinez speaks about his children
LEO MARTINEZ – The veteran actor opened up about his six children, including the one he had with the late award-winning actress Cherie Gil.
Cherie passed away on August 5, 2022, due to endometrial cancer at the age of 59. Leo and Cherie’s love story resulted in a son named Jeremiah David Gil Eigenmann, affectionately known as Jay. Jay, who will celebrate his 37th birthday on January 19, 2024, is based in the U.S., working as a sound engineer.
Leo revealed in a YouTube interview with Snooky Serna on January 6, 2024, that Jay was just a year old when he and Cherie parted ways. During a throwback photo segment, Leo shared details about his current wife, Gina Valenciano, and their firstborn, Lesley Valenciano Martinez. Leo and Gina have been married for 36 years, and they have three children together.
In a family photo featuring Leo with his six kids, including Jay, Leo mentioned that his six children come from three different women he loved. He candidly stated, “Whenever they ask me, ‘Ilan ang anak mo?’ Ang sagot ko—two, one, three… ‘Two sa una, one kay Cherie, three kay Gina.'”
Leo emphasized the positive relationships among his six children, noting that they continue to see each other in the United States. Snooky commented on the fulfilling experience of raising children who get along well. Leo agreed, mentioning the close bond between his children. He added that Cherie and Gina were best friends when Cherie was alive. In fact, after Cherie’s passing, Gina posted farewell photos with captions, expressing their deep connection.
Meanwhile, Leo Martinez is an actor, comedian, and director with a career spanning from 1970 to the present. Renowned for his contributions to the entertainment industry, Martinez has also served as the Director General of the Film Academy of the Philippines.
He has starred in some notable films, including “Heneral Luna”, “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral”, and “Ulan”. Additionally, Leo has made significant contributions to television, appearing in shows like “Ober Da Bakod,” “Maynila,” and “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano.” Currently, Leo continues to contribute to the industry with recurring roles in TV series like “Abot-Kamay na Pangarap” and “Senior High.”