LOOK: Family and Friends Throw Baby Shower for Ria Atayde and Zanjoe Marudo, Reveal Baby Gender

 

LOOK: Family and Friends Throw Baby Shower for Ria Atayde and Zanjoe Marudo, Reveal Baby Gender

Photo: Ria and Zanjoe/IG

Kapamilya couple Ria Atayde and Zanjoe Marudo had a heartwarming get-together with their family and close friends on Sunday, July 21, celebrating Zanjoe’s birthday and their baby shower.

In a series of Instagram stories shared by the couple and their guests, Ria and Zanjoe were surprised with an intimate party. “Surprise bb shower @ria & happy birthday @onlyzanjoemarudo!!! Love you guys so matssss,” a close friend wrote, which Zanjoe reposted. 

Celebratory Messages and Heartfelt Notes

Ria’s sister, Gela Atayde, shared her excitement in an Instagram story, “Can’t wait for baby Z. Happy birthday kuya @onlyzanjoemarudo.” Ria’s mom, Sylvia Sanchez, also shared a touching message for her son-in-law, recalling how she admired Zanjoe even before he became part of their family. “Minahal kita hindi dahil si Zanjoe Marudo ka. Minahal kita dahil napakabait mong bata,” she said, expressing her gratitude for Zanjoe’s love and care for Ria.

Ria’s sister-in-law, Maine Mendoza, also got emotional, praising Ria and Zanjoe as she looked forward to the arrival of Baby Z. “You will be a great mom just as you are a great sister to everyone, a great friend to everyone,” Maine said, alongside her husband, Arjo Atayde.

Star-Studded Celebration

The party was attended by several stars and personalities, including Dominic Ochoa, LA Tenorio, ABS-CBN Chief Executive Officer and President Carlo Katigbak, and ABS-CBN Chief Operating Officer for Broadcast Cory Vidanes. Singer-songwriter Ice Seguerra reunited with his onscreen mom, Sylvia, and performed Juan Karlos’ “Buwan” at the party. Comedians Bayani Agbayani and Eric Nicolas hosted the event.

Gender Reveal

Actress and producer Liza Diño-Seguerra revealed the baby’s gender in her message: “It’s a boy for our baby sister Sophia Atayde (Ria) 🍼 Patay kabirth month ni Ice ang magiging baby mo. Good luck! Hahaha. Lab yu sis!❤️”

Journey to Parenthood

Last Father’s Day, Ria announced her pregnancy, sharing her excitement for their new chapter together. “To the dad you already are and the dad I know you’ll be. Love you @onlyzanjoemarudo, so excited for this new chapter with you 🤍 Happy first Father’s Day!” she wrote. Zanjoe responded with gratitude and a message for all fathers celebrating the day.

Last month, the couple enjoyed a final family trip before Ria gives birth, organized by Sylvia as a special treat. “Excited for the arrival of our little Marudo. Final trip for Mommy @ria before she embarks on motherhood full-time,” Sylvia penned.

Engagement and Wedding

In February this year, Ria and Zanjoe announced their engagement after two years of dating. They tied the knot in March, with their wedding date coinciding with Ria’s birthday on March 23.

Here are some photos from their intimate party: