Kris Aquino powered through pain and fatigue as she completed one of her first major shoots since stepping away from the limelight to focus on her health.
The “Queen of All Media” recently returned in front of the cameras for her new collaboration with Netflix Philippines, where she was introduced as its Chief Head of Insights and Kontent Analysis—or C.H.I.K.A.
Showbiz content creator and close friend Loi Villarama, popularly known as Mama Loi, shared behind-the-scenes clips from the shoot and revealed the physical difficulties Kris experienced while working.
“I NEVER LOST FAITH THAT THIS DAY WILL COME… when The Queen, Ms. Kris Aquino, will face the cameras again and do what she does best,” Villarama wrote on Instagram.
According to Villarama, Kris was experiencing swelling and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis during the shoot.
“During the shoot, I saw how hard it was for her because ’yung rheumatoid arthritis, talagang namamaga ’yung legs and pati ’yung buto. I felt ’yung pag-usli nung mismong buto on her knees na namamaga,” Villarama shared.
Kris reportedly appeared relatively well during the earlier part of the production, but the effects of her condition became more noticeable as fatigue set in.
Despite her discomfort, Villarama said Kris remained upbeat and professional throughout the shoot.
“But she never complained, kahit hirap at pagod she was always in high spirits, at pag nasa harap na ng camera wala ka nang mahahalata na she’s in pain,” Villarama said.
Villarama also praised Kris for delivering her material efficiently despite what she was experiencing physically.
“She is a true professional. At kahit may iniindang sakit, palaging ‘take 1’ si KCA,” Villarama added.
Kris was reportedly scheduled to finish by midnight but continued working until around 1:30 a.m. to complete the shoot.
A behind-the-scenes clip also showed her youngest son, Bimby Aquino Yap, assisting her as she got up from a chair after filming.
Fashion designer and longtime friend Michael Leyva was also present to support Kris during her comeback shoot.
“I specifically prayed to God for this day to come. I have always hoped for you to stay healthy and to be able to come back to doing what you love the most,” Leyva wrote.
“My heart is crying with joy to see the one and only Queen of All Media, Kris Aquino, again in Michael Leyva. I love you so much ate,” he added.
Kris had largely stepped away from show business in recent years while undergoing treatment for multiple autoimmune conditions.
Her Netflix collaboration now signals a gradual return to the entertainment scene. As C.H.I.K.A., Kris brings back her trademark commentary as she reacts to scenes from Filipino titles and shares her observations in her signature candid style.
