Kris Aquino, the “Queen of All Media,” has once again found herself facing heartbreak—this time with Dr. Mike Padlan, a Filipino general surgeon.
In an emotional social media post, Aquino confirmed that their relationship had ended, sharing painful truths about love, loss, and resilience
“Enough time has passed. He did not love me,” Aquino wrote, marking the end of a relationship she once believed would be a source of strength in her ongoing health battles.
Who Is Dr. Mike Padlan?
Dr. Michael “Mike” Padlan is a respected general surgeon originally from Pangasinan and affiliated with Makati Medical Center. He completed his medical education at Far Eastern University, followed by his internship and residency at Makati Medical Center. He is board-certified by the Philippine Board of Surgery and has built a stable career in the medical field.
Now in his early 50s, Dr. Padlan has two children from a previous relationship. Before dating Aquino, he largely stayed out of the limelight.
How They Met and Fell in Love
Aquino and Padlan’s relationship became public in mid-2024, when she credited “MY Dr. MP” as a key figure in her return to the Philippines and her ongoing medical treatments.
She later confirmed that he had been assisting in her care, and a viral photo of them seated together on a plane added to the speculation about their growing closeness.
“I felt safer knowing he was there. It made returning to the Philippines a less daunting experience,” Aquino previously shared.
At the time, Aquino was undergoing treatment for multiple autoimmune diseases, and Padlan was seen as both a romantic partner and a medical ally in her fight for recovery.
Why the Relationship Ended
On March 16, 2025, Aquino revealed that her relationship with Padlan had ended due to differences in priorities and the realities of her chronic health struggles.
“The truth, in his words: ‘Iniwan kita dahil mahirap kang mahalin, sobrang sikip ng paligid,’” Aquino disclosed, quoting Padlan’s reason for leaving. She explained that he ultimately wanted more freedom—particularly the ability to travel—without the responsibilities of being in a relationship with someone facing serious medical conditions.
Aquino also clarified that while Padlan had played a role in her medical journey, he was compensated for his professional services. She expressed hope that he would refrain from speaking negatively about her friends and doctors, who continue to support her.
Dr. Padlan’s Son Defends His Father
Following Aquino’s public statements, Miguel Padlan, Dr. Padlan’s son, took to social media to defend his father against public backlash.
Miguel emphasized that while the relationship ended, his father had genuinely cared for Aquino and made significant sacrifices during their time together.
“My father never wanted to hurt Kris. He made sacrifices to be with her, frequently traveling to the U.S. despite the strain it placed on his work and well-being,” Miguel explained.
He also dismissed claims that his father was with Aquino for financial reasons, clarifying that any support she provided was out of her generosity.
“The truth is, my father has always worked hard to provide for himself and his family. He was not dependent on Kris, nor did he take advantage of her kindness,” Miguel said.
According to Miguel, Dr. Padlan ultimately struggled with the emotional and physical demands of being in a relationship with someone battling multiple autoimmune conditions.
“Taking care of someone with severe health issues requires immense commitment. My father did his best, but he also had to be honest with himself about his limitations,” Miguel admitted.
He urged the public to stop vilifying his father, reminding them that some relationships simply end because two people grow apart.
Miguel also revealed that Dr. Padlan is preparing to leave the country to care for a sick relative, further removing himself from the controversy.
Kris Aquino’s Strength Amid Heartbreak
Despite the pain of another failed relationship, Aquino remains focused on her health and her two sons, Bimby and Josh, who continue to be her unwavering sources of support.
She is currently battling multiple autoimmune diseases, including lupus arthritis, polymyositis, and acute fibromyalgia, which have left her physically weakened. Recently, she disclosed that she weighs less than 80 pounds and experiences chronic pain with every step.
Still, Aquino remains determined to persevere, drawing strength from the people who continue to stand by her side.
“When love fails, you hold on to the people who truly matter,” she reflected.
While the relationship has ended, both Aquino and Padlan are moving forward separately—each carrying their own lessons from the time they shared.
“At the end of the day, love is about showing up—and I know the people who truly love me will always be there,” Aquino said, proving once again that her greatest strength comes not from the men who leave, but from the resilience she has built within herself.
