“I feel like a stage mother. I am excited!”
This was what Gretchen Barretto said when asked about daughter Dominique Cojuangco's modelling stint at the launch of American Eagle Outfitters last night, February 28, on Bonifacio High Street, The Fort, Taguig City.
Gretchen was one proud mama taking photos of her only child with partner Tonyboy Cojuangco on the runway.
She was clapping and screaming when Dominique walked and striked a pose on the stage.
Dominique just celebrated her Wizard of Oz-themed debut party last February 23.
Gretchen revealed to PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) that this is Dominique’s first modelling stint after a long time.
“Yes! It’s the first time she’s modelling after a long, long, time. The last time she did it, she was about eight or nine.
“I feel like a stage mother. I am excited!
“I was at the make-up room, lahat sila masayang-masaya—all the kids out there.
"So I am excited for them.”
As a "stage mother," did she give Dominique an advice about modelling or how to answer questions in interviews?
Gretchen said, “Nothing, just have fun.
“Well, Dominique is turning 18 in April; technically she’s an adult, puwede na siya mag-isip para sa sarili niya.”
LETTING GO OF DOMINIQUE. Now that her unica hija is turning 18 and has plans of studying abroad, is Gretchen ready to let go of Dominique?
The actress replied, “Hindi ko pa ine-entertain yung thought na I’m letting Dominique go.
“I think I am just letting her be herself and taking a step back.”
But is it easy or hard?
“I have yet to find out when she leave in August.
"I think she’s ready to face anything.
“She’s equipped with so much love and kakayanin niyang lahat.
“After all, anak namin siya, matapang kaming pareho ng tatay niya, and ganun namin siya pinalaki.
"So with a lot of love, kaya niya ang lahat.”
DOMINIQUE ON ENTERTAINING SUITORS. Now that Dominique has turned into a fine, beautiful lady, it is inevitable for her to have suitors.
Is this okay with Gretchen?
The actress replied, “Huwag muna sana.
“Sana tapusin niya muna ang pag-aaral niya. Yun ang gusto ni Dominique, yun din ang gusto namin ng tatay niya.
“She has a passion for fashion so I tell her go for it!
“Have fun and enjoy the world.”
HOLY WEEK PLANS. Since Holy Week is coming very soon, do they have any plans already?
Gretchen excitedly answered, “Holy week plans… Calatagan [in Batangas] with the whole family.
“Tradition namin ‘yon, so gusto ni Dominique, Calatagan.
“So Calatagan talaga kami with Marjorie’s family and our cousins."
