Last updated on: March 4, 2025
Cecilia Ongpauco is widely known for being the mother of Heart Evangelista, an accomplished Filipino actress and politician. Cecilia’s life has been greatly shaped by her family, especially as a mother figure for Heart. Although Cecilia prefers living a private life, her connection with Heart has kept her visible to many and here’s an insider look into both of their lives together.
Quick Facts About Cecilia Ongpauco
| Full Name | Maria Cecilia del Gallego Payawal Ongpauco |
| Birthdate | 1955 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 70 years and 3 months old |
| Occupation | N/A |
| Education | N/A |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Husband (Ex-Spouse) | Reynaldo Evangelista Ongpauco |
| Parents | Not known |
| Siblings | Liberty Ilagan (sister) |
| Children | Son: Miguel Ongpauco; Daughters: Camille Ongpauco, Lisa Ongpauco, Michelle Ongpauco, Marjorie Ongpauco, and Heart Evangelista |
| Net worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Family Background
Cecilia Ongpauco was born Maria Cecilia del Gallego Payawal in 1955 with Spanish roots that can be traced back to Del Gallego City in the Philippines. Her upbringing and family background were traditional with strong values being held dear. However, that changed when she married Reynaldo Evangelista Ongpauco who founded Barrio Fiesta restaurants throughout the Philippines – something Cecilia never expected at first!
Cecilia first gained notoriety through Reynaldo’s family’s prominence in business and culture; yet despite this exposure she has managed to keep much of her personal life out of public view.
Marriage and Divorce
Cecilia and Reynaldo wed in Nevada in 1986 and eventually divorced three years later for reasons that remain private. Although their separation was amicable, after which Cecilia maintained strong connections to her Ongpauco family ties through which her primary role became motherhood.
Cecilia did not let her divorce impact how involved she remained in her children’s lives – including Heart Evangelista – as their guide and parent figure.
Children and Family Life
Cecilia has six children; Heart Evangelista being her youngest (real name is Love Marie Payawal Ongpauco). Additionally, Miguel Ongpauco, Marjorie Ongpauco, Camille Ongpauco, Michelle Ongpauco and Lisa Ongpauco round out Cecilia’s brood. Of all her offspring, Heart has gained the most notoriety for acting and politics endeavors.
Cecilia enjoys an especially close bond with Camille, one of Heart’s elder sisters. Additionally, Cecilia has strong links to showbiz; Liberty Ilagan was an actress in the 60s while Jodi Sta. Maria (another acclaimed performer in showbiz) is her sister and Heart has Jodi as her cousin – two powerful indicators that demonstrate this connection between showbiz and showbiz in her family tree.
Relationship with Heart Evangelista
Cecilia and Heart Evangelista’s relationship has seen its ups and downs. At times they disagreed about Heart’s career choices or personal choices; but over time their bond has only strengthened. A touching gesture was when Cecilia walked Heart down the aisle during Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero’s renewal of vows ceremony; this show of support showed just how far their bond had come.
Cecilia can often be seen at family events standing beside Heart, showing her support for both her professional life and personal relationships. Cecilia’s smiles and gestures of acceptance towards Chiz Escudero also demonstrate this acceptance.
Cecilia’s Support
Cecilia generally prefers an unassuming life; however, she makes appearances at significant family events to show her support and express her affection for Heart. At these gatherings she often expresses kindness toward Chiz and offers him praise – helping Heart balance both work and personal commitments successfully.
Cecilia’s public appearances are typically modest yet meaningful, not seeking to grab headlines but showing up to support her family and heartfelt words at events often include prayers for Heart’s wellbeing.
READ ALSO: Heart Evangelista Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
A Mother’s Love and Legacy
Cecilia Ongpauco’s life is one of love, family, and resilience; her journey as a mother has been full of both challenges and victories; yet the relationship she shares with Heart is proof that time and understanding can heal old wounds.
Through her actions, Cecilia has demonstrated what it means to be a mother–standing by her children no matter the circumstances. Her legacy lives on in Heart Evangelista’s success and the strong family ties she continues to foster.
